Even Small Storms Can Cause a lot of Damage

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded basement with wet content, flooring and workout equipment.

There are dozens of severe storm events across the country every year. Many of those can cause hundreds of millions of dollars in damages to homes, businesses and infrastructure. 

Realizing that your home or business has sustained damage due to a storm is hard to deal with. What do you do? Who do you call?

There is one bit of advise that we can give you that can save you thousands of dollars; Call SERVPRO fast!! Water damage doesn't just sit in your home and business. It spreads, everywhere. It wicks up the walls, into adjacent rooms. It even evaporates into the air and can cause "secondary damage" to areas of your building you are not even aware of. 

Even after you have sucked up the visible water off the floor and out of the carpet, water is still causing more damage every minute. 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County has the training, experience and equipment to get your building stabilized fast and minimize the damage that water causes.

Call SERVPRO at 847.697.8500!!

SERVPRO responds to storms like no one else!!!

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Ready to roll!

What is one of the greatest things about working with SERVPRO during storms? BECAUSE WE ARE HUGE AND CAN SEND HUNDREDS OF CREWS!!!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County is a part of the "Storm Response Teams." We keep a 36-foot trailer fully stocked with equipment and supplies so we can quickly respond to emergency situations. We will bring that trailer along with a couple of box trucks and vans full of our fully trained and experienced crew.

We bring enough equipment, crew and supplies that we can arrive onsite and start performing work for either dozens of homes or a large corporate facility immediately when we roll into town.

When you combine our formidable response with hundreds of other SERVPROs from around the nation, we literally "Paint the town Green."

We respond to storms like no one else. Residential, commercial and industrial all taken care of by the Men and Women or SERVPRO!!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County; painting our town Green!!

Learn more about Elgin.

Gutters are SO IMPORTANT!!

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Gutters work to keep us dry!

From intense wind, heavy snow fall, and rain showers, your Elgin home endures a lot of storms throughout the year. When these storms hit, your gutters are busy at work. Their job is to control the flow of rainwater which protects your roof, walls, foundation, and landscape. Unfortunately, they can also be at risk for causing serious additional problems if they are not maintained.

            If your gutters are not maintained after enduring Elgin’s storms, you can easily be at risk for potential water damage which can cost thousands of dollars. Since the job of gutters is to carry water away from the home’s foundation, it cannot do its function without clear paths. Clogged gutters will eventually overflow onto the foundation of the home. And depending on the amount of water and condition of the foundation, water could seep into your basement or crawl space. Clogged gutters can also pose a weight strain on your roof and fascia. This could cause your roof to collapse and causing damage to the shingles of the roof and exterior of the house.

            A routine cleaning of your gutters can prevent damage to your roof, exterior, foundation, and save you a lot of money in damage repairs. By setting aside a couple of hours, follow these steps to easily clean them yourself and ensure they are functioning properly:

1. Protect your hands and keep them dry by wearing latex gloves
2. Begin cleaning near the downspout
3. Clear large debris such as leaves and twigs by hand
4. Remove and clean downspout strainers
5. Flush out the gutter with your garden hose. Start at the opposite end of the downspout
6. Check the downspout for any lodged debris and remove any remaining debris
7. Use a pressure washer to remove any mildew and dirt from the gutters

If your Elgin home has experienced water damage, be proactive by partnering with SERVPRO of Elgin to dry out the damaged area. We are the water restoration team and you can count on us to remove and repair water damage. We are a 24-hour service and can respond to the call at any time. To schedule an estimate or if you have any questions, call (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin.

It's spring storm season

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

That looks like trouble!

Everyone enjoys the spring and blooming flower in Elgin, but what people do not like is the variety of harsh weather conditions that come during this season. Your home takes a beating during storms, so it is very important for you to maintain and protect them. Luckily, there are plenty of preventative measures homeowners can take to help reduce damage if and when a severe storm hits. Consider the following tips to keep your home safe this season:

• Trim and maintain your trees. They are a risk to possibly damage your home’s exterior or break a window. When heavy rain hits Kane County, it also gives the possibility for trees to be uprooted from the ground as well.
• Secure your fence. Ensure your fences are fully secured to prevent them being lifted from the ground.
• Secure furniture. Patio furniture is a lovely touch for your backyard. Unfortunately, heavy winds can cause items like chairs and toys to be moved. This poses a possible risk to damage either your furniture or your home’s exterior. You can prevent this by anchoring furniture or moving items inside.
• Check your gutters. Gutters need to remain clear at all times. Clear gutters allow water to flow away from your home. If they are not maintained, it can cause water to overflow and create leaks. There is also a risk for your roof to collapse from the built-up pressure. Set a couple of hours aside to clean gutters and make sure they are properly working.
• Protect your shingles. Make sure your shingles are secure to endure storms in Elgin. If they ever become loose, you can repair each shingle with either roof tar or sealant spray.
• Stock a basic emergency kit. Intense storms in the Kane County area can leave you without electric, water, gas, or sewage for a few hours or even days. Stock your family’s emergency kit without enough food, water, and supplies to carry everyone through at least three days. A basic emergency kit can include: Water, food, and flashlight.
• Know your policy. It’s critical to read and understand your insurance policy. Be sure to frequently examine your property to ensure there are no physical or liability hazards.

If your home has been damaged by a storm, SERVPRO of Elgin can take of any needs you and your family have after a disaster. Don’t feel alone during this stressful time. We can take the stress out of fixing any water or fire damage from storms. We are a 24-hour service and are “Here to Help” whenever you need us. For services and any questions, call: (847)-697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin here.

Getting ready for the storm

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Caution, wet streets ahead!

SERVPRO of Elgin/NW Kane County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Elgin/NW Kane County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,850 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 847-697-8500

Learn more about Elgin

Cozy up to fireplace safety in your Elgin Home

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Fireplaces can add the ambiance of warmth and tranquility to your Elgin home on a chilly Sunday morning. It is important to remember if you don’t take care of your fireplace, your warmth and tranquility, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. And it can all start with the cleanliness of your chimney.

One of the best ways to prevent a disaster is to keep your fireplace clean. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 30% of heating fires are a result of unclean chimneys and equipment. This is due to a substance called creosote. Creosote is a byproduct of wood combustion that consists mainly of tar. Traces of this substance are found in the smoke that rises from open flames. When smoke is rising to the top of your chimney, it will mix with cold air and water to solidify and stick to the chimney liner. Creosote is not something that fixes itself either. It grows in a self-perpetuating cycle since it accumulates when there is lack of ventilation. This is a huge hazard because creosote is extremely flammable and can cause a destructive, deadly house fire.

            Creosote forms naturally, so there is no way to completely avoid it while using your fireplace. Small amounts of presence of creosote is not the issues, it’s the buildup of this substance that is problematic. There are three stages of creosote buildup and here is how you can appropriately respond to each stage to get the best cleaning. When you decide it’s time to clean your chimney, ensure you use a trained professional.

1. State One- A small amount of creosote is present and has a thin, flaky texture. At this stage, the coating can easily be brushed away by a technician using a specialized brush.
2. Stage Two- A medium size amount of creosote is present which consents of more tar and soot. At this stage, it is a little tougher to remove the substance. To remove it, it would be most beneficial to use a rotary loop tool attached to a drill.
3. Stage Three- A large amount of creosote is present which is very concentrated. It can feel either sticky and oily or hard and shiny depending if the coating is fresh. At this stage, it may actually be more cost-effective to simply replace the chimney liner than try to clean it.

Although there is no way to completely avoid creosote, you can take simple actions to slow the process of its buildup. Consider the following tips:

• Only use dry, seasoned wood in your chimney. This is wood that has been left to dry for at least 6 months
• Never burn artificial logs because they produce more combustion byproduct than regular wood
• Make sure your fire has an adequate amount of air
• Schedule an annual chimney cleaning and inspection

Unfortunately, sometimes disaster still happen despite taking the steps to prevent an accident. If your Elgin Home has experienced a fire due to creosote buildup, don’t feel you’re in this alone. We are the certified fire restoration experts and know how to bring your home back to preloss conditions. You can count on us to immediately assess the damages and begin the remediation and restoration process. For services or any questions, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin

Stop spreading the germs in your Elgin home

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your germs to yourself!

Flu season is in full swing here in Kane County and the spread of germs is on everyone’s mind. During this time, it is important to do our part to help stop the spread of germs. One of the first steps you can take is to keep up with the latest information and news from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They have emphasized the importance of keeping your surroundings clean and safe which include environments like the workplace, schools, commercial establishments, and homes. Each environment has proactive actions you can take to prevent the spread of germs

Workplace & school safety

• Practice good hygiene. In the workplace, avoid handshakes or use other methods of greeting. You should be keeping your space clean by disinfecting surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, desks, and hand railings.
• Where a mask whenever you are in close contact with others.
• Practice good social distancing, stay 6 feet away from others not in your social circle
• Be careful with meetings and travel. If you have the opportunity, use videoconferencing instead of face-to-face meetings. If this is not possible, try to hold your meeting in an open, well-ventilated space. In addition, assess the risk of business travel. Make sure you know how to best prepare for a safe experience at the airport.
• Handle food carefully. This means to limit food sharing and always wash your hands before consuming food. If your workplace has a cafeteria, ensure staff practice strict hygiene
• Stay at home if you are feeling sick

Home Safety

• All Elgin households should encourage everyone to wash their hands upon entering the home and avoid touching their face
• Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and handrails
• It is suggested for households with sick family members to give them their own room if possible

Commercial Establishments

• Practice good hygiene. To avoid spreading germs in Elgin, it is recommended to use other methods of greeting people rather than a handshake. At business or commercial establishments, promote tap and pay to limit handling of cash
• Avoid crowds. Being in the presence of crowds increases your chances of catching something. To avoid crowds, use online transactions where possible. If you are someone managing these establishment, consider limiting attendance at larger gatherings
• Be cautious when using public transportation. Taxis, buses, and ride shares are all very common uses of transportation and sometimes it’s hard to avoid using them when it’s your main source of getting from point A to B. Always keep hand sanitizer handy with you to use after you’ve arrived at your destination. It is also recommended to keep windows down if possible to increase ventilation

SERVPRO of Elgin is “Here to Help” to stop the spread of germs in these environments by providing our proactive cleaning services. As the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration, we have the CDC and EPA approved resources to help you immediately. Call us today to see how we can help clean your home or business: (847) 697-8500.

Ice damage and water damage to your Elgin home

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Ice on your roof, is bad for your roof.

In the movies, snow covered roofs and icicles paint the perfect picture for a winter scenery. It may look pretty, but unfortunately, the idealistic icicle look can be a sign of ice damming. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation.

Ice damming is caused by the snow being exposed to inconsistent surface temperatures on your Elgin home’s roof. The primary source of heat is from the inside of your home. Did you know heat from the house travels to the roof surface in three different ways?

• Conduction is heat energy traveling through a solid
• Convection is the heat transfer that rises from the heated area.
• Radiation is also a heat transfer by electromagnetic waves

If you spot an ice dam on your Elgin home, one common way to remove it is by using calcium chloride ice melt. Follow these simple steps to remove the dams and prevent further damage:

1. Using a roof rake, remove snow 3-4 feet from the edge of your roof and being careful not to damage the roof covering
2. Use a nylon stocking to fill with the calcium chloride ice melt
3. Safely place and position the calcium chloride-filled nylon stocking vertically across the ice dam so that it can melt a channel through the ice

 Sometimes accidents still happen, and you have experienced a water loss from your Elgin home’s ice dam. While many believe a water damage from an ice dam can easily get resolved in your Elgin home, often conventional drying methods are not enough.

From the moment your accident occurs, your property, materials, and contents are exposed to water and begin to absorb the moisture. The best solution for your home’s water loss is to hire professional restoration specialists like our team. It is easy for your situation to get out of hand and endure further damage. This is why one of the advantages to SERVPRO of Elgin is that we are a 24-hour emergency service. Our team is ready to service your water damage needs at any time. To learn more about our franchise or schedule a service, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin.

A Silent Cold Weather Killer in Elgin: Carbon Monoxide

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Often called the invisible killer, Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, or propane do not burn completely. Every year, more than 400 people in the United States die from accidental non-fire related Carbon Monoxide poisoning. To know these risks are especially important during Elgin’s winter months when your commercial building is using heating equipment more frequently. Common sources of CO around your commercial building include gas space heaters, generators, water heaters, and furnaces.

            Did you know any heat producing item can produce Carbon Monoxide? Therefore, installing a detector can be a lifesaving decision for your Elgin commercial building. it is recommended to place it near any high-risk equipment. This location is most ideal because it will serve as an early warning if any CO is leaking into your commercial building. The more accurate a Carbon Monoxide alarm, the greater your chances of appropriately responding to the problem.

            The science behind why Carbon Monoxide is so dangerous is explained by American Council on Science and Health. “Carbon Monoxide loves to bind to iron. This also means that it loves to bind to hemoglobin, the iron-based protein that is responsible for distributing oxygen throughout the body. The affinity of CO to hemoglobin is so strong that the gas binds 240x more tightly to than does oxygen”. This means Carbon Monoxide does not just compete with oxygen for free hemoglobin, it displaces oxygen which inhibits your body’s ability to distribute oxygen.

            Even if your commercial building has a Carbon Monoxide detector, be aware of Carbon Monoxide Symptoms:

• Chest Pain
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Vomiting

Carbon Monoxide poisoning is very serious and can happen in your Elgin business. Fortunately, this is very preventable for you and your employees. In addition to installing detectors throughout your commercial building, consider the following tips for avoiding a dangerous situation:

• If your company stores vehicles in a warehouse, do not run vehicles inside the building. If you need to warmup the vehicle, pull it out of the warehouse or garage first
• Always have proper ventilation throughout the building
• Schedule regular maintenance for your fuel-burning equipment. Make sure it is kept clean and working properly

Learn more about Elgin

SERVPRO of Elgin saves Children's Reading Center

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Gail Borden Public Library

Subzero temperatures can cause a serious risk to both homeowners and business owners in Elgin. Risks can range anywhere to slippery sidewalks, ice damming, and broken heating systems. One of the most common problem people face during the winter is a frozen pipe. Frozen pipes are a big issue because they can lead to a pipe burst.  Unfortunately, in January 2019, Gail Borden Public Library experienced what everyone fears during the winter: A pipe burst.

Due to extreme cold, the library was closed to the public for two days, but staff were still checking the building around the clock. Everything seemed quiet during the temporary shut down until a Security Guard was on duty. When the guard was doing a walk-through of the building at 8pm, he was alarmed when he heard the sound of running water inside an outside wall facing the Fox River. He followed the noise and was the confronted by the sight of water literally “shooting out of the wall.”

At midnight, a call to SERVPRO® of Elgin was made and by 1:30am, the owner, George Jackowiec, and the team were on site. They worked relentlessly throughout the night to set up equipment and start extraction.  At 5:30am, drying the damaged area began and it was completed in a week. After the area was job, SERVPRO of Elgin cleaned the carpets and furniture to truly make the staff feel “Like it never even happened.”

Like Gail Borden Public Library, your pipes are at higher risk for bursts during the winter. This is because when water freezes, it expands. You can avoid a pipe burst by preventing your pipes from freezing in your Elgin business. Follow these tips to keep your commercial pipes in working order this winter:

• Insulate exterior piping
• Inspect your property on a regular basis
• Keep thermostat to the same temperature
• Know the locations of your shut-off valves in case a pipe was to break. SERVPRO of Elgin can help you plan for a disaster with an Emergency Ready Profile.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a 24-hour emergency service franchise who will always provide you peace of mind and address your water damage needs with quality solutions. Whether it’s 1pm or 1am, you can always count on SERVPRO of Elgin to take care of the job.

Learn more about Elgin.

Thank You to Our Elgin Heroes

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Local Elgin firefighters.

The Super Bowl has us reminiscing on our third annual SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl. It was an amazing experience to watch our nominated On behalf of SERVPRO, we’re honored to present to the family of Dylan Cunningham the SERVPRO National First Responder Award. Dylan’s selflessness and dedication to serving his community made him a true hero.

In addition, 9 other outstanding First Responders were recognized at select bowl games across the county on behalf of SERVPRO®. The last game was held at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Air Force and Louisville went head to head for this year’s very exciting game. The intense matchup resulted in a win for Air Force. The final score was 31-28.

Learn more about Elgin. 

How to ensure your Elgin Business

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Large loss response team at commercial building.

When a commercial property suffers, the business itself suffers. So, if a disaster, like water damage, happens to your Elgin business, it is necessary to have thorough insurance coverage. It is especially important to talk with your agent as not all insurance policies are made the same. In policies, water damage can also be sourced in so many ways and the coverage will vary based on your current commercial policy. It is advised to add water damage coverage or get additional coverage on top of your standard policy. This is recommended because this allows for greater range of a coverage for types of water damage sources. So, when getting quotes, pay attention to what different companies offer.

There are many insurance companies that can provide coverage for your commercial building. Below are examples of possible commercial flood insurance providers and how to contact them today to get started on your policy:

• Allstate Insurance (800) 255-7828
• Farmers Insurance (800) 435-7764
• State Farm Insurance (800) 732-5246
• The Hartford (877) 805-9918

Finding the right insurance is crucial for your business because the most common causes of water damage can be very expensive. One of the biggest causes for water damage in an Elgin commercial property are pipe bursts so being properly covered can save your business. Being properly coverage is very important for your business because commercial water damage can easily cost thousands of dollars. This makes it important for business owners to know that their policies cover such damage.

The main cause of pipe bursts are due to cold weather. When the temperatures drop, the water in the pipe freezes. This leads to it expanding and then rupturing. In addition to the weather, there are other ways a pipe can break or leak:

• Rusty Pipes- Pipes, like anything else in your Elgin home, only last so long. They will eventually start to wear out or rust over. Too much rusting or wear can make your pipes vulnerable to bursts. It is highly recommended to consistency inspect your pipes and replace the ones that have become weak or rusty. Signs of worn out pipes include discolored water, stains on the wall, and lower water pressure.
• Hard water- Hard water refers to water that contains high content of magnesium and calcium. Although they are not harmful to humans, they can harmful to your pipes. These minerals can cause build up and slow your flow of water. Furthermore, these minerals have been known to corrode the pipes and create holes that allow the water to flow out.
• Poor Installation- Pipe leaks can happen if there is a poorly soldered or fitted connection between the pipes.

If your business ends up suffering from water damage, luckily you will be insured and SERVPRO of Elgin will be able to assist you. We are the water damage professionals and have earned the trust of many property owners to make it seem “Like it never even happened.” To schedule your service, call our office: (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin

A real 5-star review for SERVPRO of Elgin

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

After a pipe leak causes mold growth, any homeowner can easily become stressed out from the mess their Elgin home has endured. This is especially true when personal belonging like pictures, clothes, or valued items can all become at risk to be ruined. Luckily, you won’t need to go through this alone. When you hire SERVPRO of Elgin, you can count on us to save your home. We will ease the stress and let our professionally trained technicians handle the work for you.

When one of our recent customers had mold growth from a pipe leak, they did not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Elgin. From the first inspection to finishing the rebuild work, we were able to handle every step of the progress. Once the job was completed, our customer was delighted with the quality work we provided and shared their experience on social media. We received a 5-star review which wrote:

“I had a major project needing several different contractors to complete the project. SERVPRO handled the job which included providing the different contractors. All those involved with the project were thorough, efficient, and professional. Each contractor answered any questions and addressed any concerns I had. In addition, SERVPRO's customer service is second to none. I highly recommend SERVPRO to complete any restoration and related services both big and small”

We are proud to have such a happy and satisfied customer because we strive to make it feel “Like it never even happened.” Follow us on Facebook for more customer reviews, restorative information, and Elgin community news!

And for any questions or to schedule your water mitigation service, call our office (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin.

We are Certified Experts in the Elgin area

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Elgin has been an IICRC certified firm for the past 16 years. For nearly five decades, The Institution of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification stands at the forefront teaching trailblazing knowledge required to tackle complex jobs and return normalcy from chaotic environments. They provide the most comprehensive and advanced technical information in the industry. They allow companies like SERVPRO of Elgin to advance their education and stay ahead of the competition with several IICRC certification options:

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) is a course designed to teach the effective, efficient, and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents. It uses comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment.
• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) is a course to teach the art and science of carpet cleaning to professional service providers, as well as others in the related industry. Emphasis is placed the following: practical application, identifying fiber, carpet constructions, style types and finishes, soiling conditions, cleaning science and methodology. This course also covers pre-inspection, basic cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning technique.
• Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) is a course to teach damage inspection and evaluation, workflow management, and process administration. The course also teaches the technical methods of effective and timely drying.
• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) is a course with a concentration on technical procedure for successfully completing the restoration of a fire and smoke damaged environment. Students will learn how to combine technical procedures with practical approach to managing the job site. These concepts will then teach the students how pricing of the job is created.
• Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) is a course designed to review the process for inspecting and investigating crime and trauma scenes. This may involve blood and other potentially infectious material. The course will focus on the procedures to follow as well as the precautions that must be taken in such an environment.
• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) is designed to teach restoration personnel that perform remediation work to give them a better concept of water damage, effects, and techniques for drying of structures. This course gives the background to understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

If your Elgin home or business is faced with a disaster such as a flood or fire, we are the certified experts who have been properly trained to know exactly what to do. Let SERVPRO of Elgin apply quality solutions to any type of damage you are experiencing. We are the 24-hour emergency service and can quickly respond whenever the service is needed. To contact our office for service or any questions call (847) 697-8500.

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Putting a Freeze on Winter Fires in the Elgin Area.

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know there are several hazards that increase the risk for a fire during the Elgin winters? People don’t think their Elgin home could be at risk for fires during the colder months, but there are many hazards that you need to watch out for in the winter. It’s important to be aware of each risk and how to avoid having a winter fire. The top two causes for fires during the winter are electrical and heating. Let’s going into further detail why these factors pose a fire risk and how you can stay fire-free this winter:

1. Electrical

Electricity is the leading cause of home fires in the United States. Roughly half of all electrical home fire involve electrical distribution or lighting equipment. The top risks include faulty outlets, light fixtures, extension cords, and wiring. Many of these items do not seem dangerous, but according to the U.S. Fire Administration, 43% of the electrical fires were caused by a malfunction. Consider the following tips to avoid electrical fires and stay safe this winter season:

• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets where they can get damaged
• Have qualified electricians add more receptacle outlets in your home to reduce the use of extension cords
• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture. The maximum wattage is located on the lamp’s sticker
• Keep electrical cords away from children and pets

2. Heating

Heating is the second largest leading cause of United States home fires. December, January, and February are the peak months for heating fires. This is because we are trying to keep our Elgin homes warm during this time of year. Heating equipment includes wall furnaces, space heater, fireplace, and heat lamps. Most often, space heaters are the type of equipment involved in these types of fires. In fact, 86% of deaths from fires caused by heating are due to space heaters. Consider the following tips to avoid heating fires and how to stay safe this winter:

• Keep anything that burns at least 3 feet away from heating equipment
• Never use the oven to heat your home
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and professionally inspected every year
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters

SERVPRO of Elgin is your Elgin area fire restoration cleanup service. We are the certified technicians who can provide you peace of mind if a fire were to happen in your Elgin Home. You can always count on the fast response and the expertise of our SERVPRO of Elgin specialists to make you and your family feel “Like it never even happened.”

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Our Tools Can Help Solve Your Elgin Home's Water Damage

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Inject-dry floor drying system.

Many disasters can take place inside your Elgin home or business when you least expect it. If a disaster were to happen, luckily SERVPRO of Elgin is always ready for whatever happens. When it comes to water damage, our trained technicians have an array of specialized equipment to bring your Elgin home back to preloss conditions. At SERVPRO of Elgin, we use the specialized equipment to help speed up the extraction and drying process. SERVPRO of Elgin is fully equipped with the following tools to restore any home and make it feel “Like it never even happened.”

1. Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in your Elgin home’s carpets and paddings. This tool has sharp probes that penetrate through carpets and padding to determine if water has migrated on the subflooring. If there is moisture, the sensor will provide both blinking and beeping as a signal. The greater the amount of moisture, the faster the lights and beeping will become.
2. Moisture Meters are utilized to measure the actual content or levels of various materials. This tool can be penetrative and non-penetrative depending on what needs to be measured. For example, penetrative meters will be used on carpet while non-penetrative meters will be used on drywall.
3. Extractors are used to provide sufficient water removal in your Elgin home. There are several different types of extractors to use such as Truck-Mounted, Light Wands, or Stationary tools. Factors in each situation such as depth of water and available power will give the technicians a better idea of what to use.
4. Air Movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level and reduce drying time.
5. Dehumidifiers are used to remove water vapor from the air. This reduces the amount of water vapor in the air which lowers the humidity ratio. This is important because lower humidity increases the rate of evaporation of moisture.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a recognized Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) firm for the past 16 years. Every technician for SERVPRO of Elgin is certified and knows how to utilize our unique tools to bring your home back to preloss conditions. We are a 24-hour service and are here to help you with any water damage needs you face in your Elgin home. If you need to schedule service, please contact our office: (847) 697-8500.

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Safety Precautions During Your Home's Visit

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Elgin is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their properties. We have helped a tremendous amount of offices, hospitals, and education facilities, but that does not mean we are not here for our Elgin area residents! During this time, we are still servicing the residents who call Elgin their home. This means we are here for you when your Elgin home experiences a water or fire loss, mold, or damage from a storm event.

At SERVPRO of Elgin, we have been serving our community since 2003 and we are prepared to continue providing our clients with a safe and comfortable experience. To ensure the safety and well-being of our clients and their homes, we implemented additional steps recommended by the CDC into our job processes. This includes all technicians and SERVPRO employees to wear face masks during client visits. We also place an air scrubber into the affected area to promote clean air in the client’s home. Lastly, every employee has their temperature taken each morning to verify they are eligible to perform work for our clients.

SERVPRO of Elgin will continue to answer your phone calls, provide estimates, and help with any restoration services you might need. Restoration is defined as essential as our services are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and operation of the Elgin area residents. Per our mission, we will be “Here to Help” when you need us most and provide a service that keeps your home functioning and your family safe. We will continue to monitor this situation with the goal of keeping you and your family comfortable in your home during these uncertain times.

Whether you need deep cleaning services or water/ fire restoration, we are here to service you on your schedule as we are a 24-hour emergency business. If you or your family has any additional questions about our services or protocol, please do not hesitate to call our office: (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin.

The Right Sump Pump for Your Elgin Home

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Sump pump replacement.

Summer is here. And for Elgin, that means much more rain fall for your homes to endure. Rain can bring beautiful flowers but can also be dangerous if your home is not properly protected. One of the most important ways to protect your home is to install a quality sump pump and maintain its proper function. Sump pumps can make the difference between a wet and dry basement after a storm in Elgin.

Did you know according to American Society of Home Inspectors, more than 60% of American homes suffer from below-ground wetness? This is why it’s so important to have a sump pump for your home’s basement. They are installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawl space. It has a huge job to keep your basement dry and prevent it from flooding. When water flows into the sump pump pit through drains, its job is to pump that groundwater out of the pit and away from your Elgin home. Your basement is able to stay dry because the sump pump is moving the water away the pit.

Although the sump pump has a huge responsibility, most people hardly think about their sump pump until it’s too late. If a sump pump were to fail during a big rain event, your basement could face extensive water damage. To keep your valuables safe from the risk of a flood, it is important to pick the best sump pump system for you. There are four types of sump pumps to consider:

• Primary sump pumps are the most common type found in many residential homes. They even come in two different models. The main difference is the pump’s location. The first one is a submersible pump, which is put under water in your sump pump basin. On the other hand, pedestal pumps are positioned with the pump motor out of the water, above your sump basin. When choosing between the two, pay attention to these factors: Sump pit size, Power needed, length water needs to be pumped, and your budget.
• Battery Backup sump pumps provide you added insurance in the case of a power outage. Not only is this unit used during a blackout, but also can be used if the main pump fails for any reason. New technology has evolved this unit to communicate with users via text or email if there were a failure.
• Combination sump pumps are a combination between a primary pump and a battery backup. This combination provides you protection not only under normal circumstances, but also during a power outage as well. Besides proper flood insurance, this combination can be considered the pinnacle of home flood protection.
• Sewage pumps are not like traditional sump pumps although they could be used for this purpose. Their primary design is to pump sewage waste and effluent from a home to a septic system. This sump has an option to be installed in a septic tank itself or in a separate pump chamber.

Unfortunately, sometimes accidents still happen and basements flood. If your basement has water damage from a flood, don’t handle this alone. Call SERVPRO of Elgin. We are the water mitigation experts who are trained to solve disasters like this. To schedule an appointment or have any questions, call our office: (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin

Summer Storms Coming in Hot!

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Storm clouds over Elgin.

With the summer heat rolling in, along come severe storms as well. Even though you take as many precautions as possible, water damage can still happen. 

Imagine you are asleep and a storm ferociously hits your area. Rain is pouring down hard and your sump pump gives out. Water begins to rapidly pour in your basement, but you have no idea because you are asleep.  You wake up the next morning to find your basement filled with water. What do you do? 

You contact SERVPRO at 815-758-3900.

Here at SERVPRO, we have over 30 years of water mitigation experience, highly-trained employees, and state-of-the-art equipment to get your home back to the way it was before the storm; "Like it never even happened." 

The city of Elgin heroes

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Firefighters and their truck

With all that is going on in the world, it can be a little scary. What happened to the days when your kids could play outside all day, stay out late until the street lights came on and if they found themselves in an uncomfortable situation, they could just about ask anyone for help.

Those easy going days might be long gone, but we still have genuine heroes that live among us. The firefighters and EMTs at your local firehouse are absolutely certified super heroes!

If your house or the building you are in is filled with smoke or has a fire, you are running out and there selfless guys are running in to save your family and belongings!!

If you are in an auto accident, these guys are cutting you out of that mangled mess and are patching your wounds.

And finally, if you or a family member is having a health emergency, these are the same guys that are picking you up, communicating with the hospital and are racing through the streets to get you to the doctors who can return you to health.

These guys may not wear capes, but they are every bit of a super hero!!

Stop spreading the choo's (meaning aahh choos!!)

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Keep it covered!

Flu season is in full swing here in Kane County and the spread of germs is on everyone’s mind. During this time, it is important to do our part to help stop the spread of germs. One of the first steps you can take is to keep up with the latest information and news from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They have emphasized the importance of keeping your surroundings clean and safe which include environments like the workplace, schools, commercial establishments, and homes. Each environment has proactive actions you can take to prevent the spread of germs

Workplace & school safety

• Practice good hygiene. In the workplace, avoid handshakes or use other methods of greeting. You should be keeping your space clean by disinfecting surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, desks, and hand railings.
• Where a mask whenever you are in close contact with others.
• Practice good social distancing, stay 6 feet away from others not in your social circle
• Be careful with meetings and travel. If you have the opportunity, use videoconferencing instead of face-to-face meetings. If this is not possible, try to hold your meeting in an open, well-ventilated space. In addition, assess the risk of business travel. Make sure you know how to best prepare for a safe experience at the airport.
• Handle food carefully. This means to limit food sharing and always wash your hands before consuming food. If your workplace has a cafeteria, ensure staff practice strict hygiene
• Stay at home if you are feeling sick

Home Safety

• All Elgin households should encourage everyone to wash their hands upon entering the home and avoid touching their face
• Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and handrails
• It is suggested for households with sick family members to give them their own room if possible

Commercial Establishments

• Practice good hygiene. To avoid spreading germs in Elgin, it is recommended to use other methods of greeting people rather than a handshake. At business or commercial establishments, promote tap and pay to limit handling of cash
• Avoid crowds. Being in the presence of crowds increases your chances of catching something. To avoid crowds, use online transactions where possible. If you are someone managing these establishment, consider limiting attendance at larger gatherings
• Be cautious when using public transportation. Taxis, buses, and ride shares are all very common uses of transportation and sometimes it’s hard to avoid using them when it’s your main source of getting from point A to B. Always keep hand sanitizer handy with you to use after you’ve arrived at your destination. It is also recommended to keep windows down if possible to increase ventilation

SERVPRO of Elgin is “Here to Help” to stop the spread of germs in these environments by providing our proactive cleaning services. As the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration, we have the CDC and EPA approved resources to help you immediately. Call us today to see how we can help clean your home or business: (847) 697-8500.

A silent cold weather killer

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms

Often called the invisible killer, Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, or propane do not burn completely. Every year, more than 400 people in the United States die from accidental non-fire related Carbon Monoxide poisoning. To know these risks are especially important during Elgin’s winter months when your commercial building is using heating equipment more frequently. Common sources of CO around your commercial building include gas space heaters, generators, water heaters, and furnaces.

            Did you know any heat producing item can produce Carbon Monoxide? Therefore, installing a detector can be a lifesaving decision for your Elgin commercial building. it is recommended to place it near any high-risk equipment. This location is most ideal because it will serve as an early warning if any CO is leaking into your commercial building. The more accurate a Carbon Monoxide alarm, the greater your chances of appropriately responding to the problem.

            The science behind why Carbon Monoxide is so dangerous is explained by American Council on Science and Health. “Carbon Monoxide loves to bind to iron. This also means that it loves to bind to hemoglobin, the iron-based protein that is responsible for distributing oxygen throughout the body. The affinity of CO to hemoglobin is so strong that the gas binds 240x more tightly to than does oxygen”. This means Carbon Monoxide does not just compete with oxygen for free hemoglobin, it displaces oxygen which inhibits your body’s ability to distribute oxygen.

            Even if your commercial building has a Carbon Monoxide detector, be aware of Carbon Monoxide Symptoms:

• Chest Pain
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Vomiting

Carbon Monoxide poisoning is very serious and can happen in your Elgin business. Fortunately, this is very preventable for you and your employees. In addition to installing detectors throughout your commercial building, consider the following tips for avoiding a dangerous situation:

• If your company stores vehicles in a warehouse, do not run vehicles inside the building. If you need to warmup the vehicle, pull it out of the warehouse or garage first
• Always have proper ventilation throughout the building
• Schedule regular maintenance for your fuel-burning equipment. Make sure it is kept clean and working properly

Learn more about Elgin

SERVPRO of Elgin saves Children's Reading Center

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage as Elgin Gail Borden Library

Subzero temperatures can cause a serious risk to both homeowners and business owners in Elgin. Risks can range anywhere to slippery sidewalks, ice damming, and broken heating systems. One of the most common problem people face during the winter is a frozen pipe. Frozen pipes are a big issue because they can lead to a pipe burst.  Unfortunately, in January 2019, Gail Borden Public Library experienced what everyone fears during the winter: A pipe burst.

Due to extreme cold, the library was closed to the public for two days, but staff were still checking the building around the clock. Everything seemed quiet during the temporary shut down until a Security Guard was on duty. When the guard was doing a walk-through of the building at 8pm, he was alarmed when he heard the sound of running water inside an outside wall facing the Fox River. He followed the noise and was the confronted by the sight of water literally “shooting out of the wall.”

At midnight, a call to SERVPRO® of Elgin was made and by 1:30am, the owner, George Jackowiec, and the team were on site. They worked relentlessly throughout the night to set up equipment and start extraction.  At 5:30am, drying the damaged area began and it was completed in a week. After the area was job, SERVPRO of Elgin cleaned the carpets and furniture to truly make the staff feel “Like it never even happened.”

Like Gail Borden Public Library, your pipes are at higher risk for bursts during the winter. This is because when water freezes, it expands. You can avoid a pipe burst by preventing your pipes from freezing in your Elgin business. Follow these tips to keep your commercial pipes in working order this winter:

• Insulate exterior piping
• Inspect your property on a regular basis
• Keep thermostat to the same temperature
• Know the locations of your shut-off valves in case a pipe was to break. SERVPRO of Elgin can help you plan for a disaster with an Emergency Ready Profile.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a 24-hour emergency service franchise who will always provide you peace of mind and address your water damage needs with quality solutions. Whether it’s 1pm or 1am, you can always count on SERVPRO of Elgin to take care of the job.

Learn more about Elgin.

How to ensure your Elgin Business

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Large Loss response at commercial building

When a commercial property suffers, the business itself suffers. So, if a disaster, like water damage, happens to your Elgin business, it is necessary to have thorough insurance coverage. It is especially important to talk with your agent as not all insurance policies are made the same. In policies, water damage can also be sourced in so many ways and the coverage will vary based on your current commercial policy. It is advised to add water damage coverage or get additional coverage on top of your standard policy. This is recommended because this allows for greater range of a coverage for types of water damage sources. So, when getting quotes, pay attention to what different companies offer.

There are many insurance companies that can provide coverage for your commercial building. Below are examples of possible commercial flood insurance providers and how to contact them today to get started on your policy:

• Allstate Insurance (800) 255-7828
• Farmers Insurance (800) 435-7764
• State Farm Insurance (800) 732-5246
• The Hartford (877) 805-9918

Finding the right insurance is crucial for your business because the most common causes of water damage can be very expensive. One of the biggest causes for water damage in an Elgin commercial property are pipe bursts so being properly covered can save your business. Being properly coverage is very important for your business because commercial water damage can easily cost thousands of dollars. This makes it important for business owners to know that their policies cover such damage.

The main cause of pipe bursts are due to cold weather. When the temperatures drop, the water in the pipe freezes. This leads to it expanding and then rupturing. In addition to the weather, there are other ways a pipe can break or leak:

• Rusty Pipes- Pipes, like anything else in your Elgin home, only last so long. They will eventually start to wear out or rust over. Too much rusting or wear can make your pipes vulnerable to bursts. It is highly recommended to consistency inspect your pipes and replace the ones that have become weak or rusty. Signs of worn out pipes include discolored water, stains on the wall, and lower water pressure.
• Hard water- Hard water refers to water that contains high content of magnesium and calcium. Although they are not harmful to humans, they can harmful to your pipes. These minerals can cause build up and slow your flow of water. Furthermore, these minerals have been known to corrode the pipes and create holes that allow the water to flow out.
• Poor Installation- Pipe leaks can happen if there is a poorly soldered or fitted connection between the pipes.

If your business ends up suffering from water damage, luckily you will be insured and SERVPRO of Elgin will be able to assist you. We are the water damage professionals and have earned the trust of many property owners to make it seem “Like it never even happened.” To schedule your service, call our office: (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin

Fire safety for your Elgin Commercial Building

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fire extinguisher

Did you know fires can be the costliest incident for a business? Approximately 10% of small businesses are affected by a fire with an average cost of $35,000 according to The Hartford. The National Fire Protection Association states there are five top reasons for fire in a commercial building: Cooking equipment, Heating equipment, Electrical & lighting equipment, Smoking materials, and Intentional. There are several ways for a fire to start in your Elgin business, but luckily, there are four core elements to help you and your company practice fire safety. Please consider the following to implement into your Elgin business for the safety of you and your employees:

• Fire Alarms are the first defense against the potential risks of fires and are perhaps the most important element for your commercial building’s fire safety system. Your Elgin business should always have routine inspections and maintain for all fire alarms to ensure they continue to properly work.
• Emergency lights and exit signs are designed to come on when the main power supplies are lost. These are very helpful because during a fire, conditions can be chaotic and confusing. Emergency lights and signs will make it more likely that individuals will be able to see well enough to get out of the building.
• Fire extinguishers are required by most fire codes. In general, they should be mounted on walls at distances of less than 75 feet. This means no one should have to travel more than 75 feet to get to a fire extinguisher. When using a fire extinguisher, remember “PASS”. It stands for Pull the pin, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.
• Installing a fire sprinkler will help extinguish fires before the fire department arrives. This is made possible because fire sprinklers are always “on-call”. There is a network of piping filled with water under pressure which is installed behind walls and ceilings. If a fire were to break out, the air temperature rises and once it gets hot enough, that activates the sprinkler system. After installing them, routine inspections should be done to ensure they are working properly.

If a fire were to happen to your commercial building in Elgin, do not worry about tackling fire debris and cleanup on your own. SERVPRO of Elgin is “Here to Help”. For us, the goal is to return each home in Elgin to a clean, odor-free environment as quickly as possible. As the fire restoration experts, we are confident to get the job done every time. To schedule a service and begin the restoration process for your Elgin business, call our office today: (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin. 

Cozy up to fireplace safety in your Elgin Home

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Cozy by the fireplace

Fireplaces can add the ambiance of warmth and tranquility to your Elgin home on a chilly Sunday morning. It is important to remember if you don’t take care of your fireplace, your warmth and tranquility, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. And it can all start with the cleanliness of your chimney.

One of the best ways to prevent a disaster is to keep your fireplace clean. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 30% of heating fires are a result of unclean chimneys and equipment. This is due to a substance called creosote. Creosote is a byproduct of wood combustion that consists mainly of tar. Traces of this substance are found in the smoke that rises from open flames. When smoke is rising to the top of your chimney, it will mix with cold air and water to solidify and stick to the chimney liner. Creosote is not something that fixes itself either. It grows in a self-perpetuating cycle since it accumulates when there is lack of ventilation. This is a huge hazard because creosote is extremely flammable and can cause a destructive, deadly house fire.

            Creosote forms naturally, so there is no way to completely avoid it while using your fireplace. Small amounts of presence of creosote is not the issues, it’s the buildup of this substance that is problematic. There are three stages of creosote buildup and here is how you can appropriately respond to each stage to get the best cleaning. When you decide it’s time to clean your chimney, ensure you use a trained professional.

1. Stage One- A small amount of creosote is present and has a thin, flaky texture. At this stage, the coating can easily be brushed away by a technician using a specialized brush.
2. Stage Two- A medium size amount of creosote is present which consents of more tar and soot. At this stage, it is a little tougher to remove the substance. To remove it, it would be most beneficial to use a rotary loop tool attached to a drill.
3. Stage Three- A large amount of creosote is present which is very concentrated. It can feel either sticky and oily or hard and shiny depending if the coating is fresh. At this stage, it may actually be more cost-effective to simply replace the chimney liner than try to clean it.

Although there is no way to completely avoid creosote, you can take simple actions to slow the process of its buildup. Consider the following tips:

• Only use dry, seasoned wood in your chimney. This is wood that has been left to dry for at least 6 months
• Never burn artificial logs because they produce more combustion byproduct than regular wood
• Make sure your fire has an adequate amount of air
• Schedule an annual chimney cleaning and inspection

Unfortunately, sometimes disaster still happen despite taking the steps to prevent an accident. If your Elgin Home has experienced a fire due to creosote buildup, don’t feel you’re in this alone. We are the certified fire restoration experts and know how to bring your home back to preloss conditions. You can count on us to immediately assess the damages and begin the remediation and restoration process. For services or any questions, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin

Ice damages and water damage to your Elgin home

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Ice on your roof, is bad for your roof

In the movies, snow covered roofs and icicles paint the perfect picture for a winter scenery. It may look pretty, but unfortunately, the idealistic icicle look can be a sign of ice damming. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation.

Ice damming is caused by the snow being exposed to inconsistent surface temperatures on your Elgin home’s roof. The primary source of heat is from the inside of your home. Did you know heat from the house travels to the roof surface in three different ways?

• Conduction is heat energy traveling through a solid
• Convection is the heat transfer that rises from the heated area.
• Radiation is also a heat transfer by electromagnetic waves

If you spot an ice dam on your Elgin home, one common way to remove it is by using calcium chloride ice melt. Follow these simple steps to remove the dams and prevent further damage:

1. Using a roof rake, remove snow 3-4 feet from the edge of your roof and being careful not to damage the roof covering
2. Use a nylon stocking to fill with the calcium chloride ice melt
3. Safely place and position the calcium chloride-filled nylon stocking vertically across the ice dam so that it can melt a channel through the ice

 Sometimes accidents still happen, and you have experienced a water loss from your Elgin home’s ice dam. While many believe a water damage from an ice dam can easily get resolved in your Elgin home, often conventional drying methods are not enough.

From the moment your accident occurs, your property, materials, and contents are exposed to water and begin to absorb the moisture. The best solution for your home’s water loss is to hire professional restoration specialists like our team. It is easy for your situation to get out of hand and endure further damage. This is why one of the advantages to SERVPRO of Elgin is that we are a 24-hour emergency service. Our team is ready to service your water damage needs at any time. To learn more about our franchise or schedule a service, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin.

Stop spreading the germs in your Elgin home

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your germs to your self

Flu season is in full swing here in Kane County and the spread of germs is on everyone’s mind. During this time, it is important to do our part to help stop the spread of germs. One of the first steps you can take is to keep up with the latest information and news from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They have emphasized the importance of keeping your surroundings clean and safe which include environments like the workplace, schools, commercial establishments, and homes. Each environment has proactive actions you can take to prevent the spread of germs

Workplace & school safety

• Practice good hygiene. In the workplace, avoid handshakes or use other methods of greeting. You should be keeping your space clean by disinfecting surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, desks, and hand railings.
• Where a mask whenever you are in close contact with others.
• Practice good social distancing, stay 6 feet away from others not in your social circle
• Be careful with meetings and travel. If you have the opportunity, use videoconferencing instead of face-to-face meetings. If this is not possible, try to hold your meeting in an open, well-ventilated space. In addition, assess the risk of business travel. Make sure you know how to best prepare for a safe experience at the airport.
• Handle food carefully. This means to limit food sharing and always wash your hands before consuming food. If your workplace has a cafeteria, ensure staff practice strict hygiene
• Stay at home if you are feeling sick

Home Safety

• All Elgin households should encourage everyone to wash their hands upon entering the home and avoid touching their face
• Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and handrails
• It is suggested for households with sick family members to give them their own room if possible

Commercial Establishments

• Practice good hygiene. To avoid spreading germs in Elgin, it is recommended to use other methods of greeting people rather than a handshake. At business or commercial establishments, promote tap and pay to limit handling of cash
• Avoid crowds. Being in the presence of crowds increases your chances of catching something. To avoid crowds, use online transactions where possible. If you are someone managing these establishment, consider limiting attendance at larger gatherings
• Be cautious when using public transportation. Taxis, buses, and ride shares are all very common uses of transportation and sometimes it’s hard to avoid using them when it’s your main source of getting from point A to B. Always keep hand sanitizer handy with you to use after you’ve arrived at your destination. It is also recommended to keep windows down if possible to increase ventilation

SERVPRO of Elgin is “Here to Help” to stop the spread of germs in these environments by providing our proactive cleaning services. As the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration, we have the CDC and EPA approved resources to help you immediately. Call us today to see how we can help clean your home or business: (847) 697-8500.

We are certified experts in the Kane county cleanups

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

IICRC logo

SERVPRO® of Elgin has been an IICRC certified firm for the past 16 years. For nearly five decades, The Institution of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification stands at the forefront teaching trailblazing knowledge required to tackle complex jobs and return normalcy from chaotic environments. They provide the most comprehensive and advanced technical information in the industry. They allow companies like SERVPRO of Elgin to advance their education and stay ahead of the competition with several IICRC certification options:

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) is a course designed to teach the effective, efficient, and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents. It uses comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment.
• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) is a course to teach the art and science of carpet cleaning to professional service providers, as well as others in the related industry. Emphasis is placed the following: practical application, identifying fiber, carpet constructions, style types and finishes, soiling conditions, cleaning science and methodology. This course also covers pre-inspection, basic cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning technique.
• Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) is a course to teach damage inspection and evaluation, workflow management, and process administration. The course also teaches the technical methods of effective and timely drying.
• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) is a course with a concentration on technical procedure for successfully completing the restoration of a fire and smoke damaged environment. Students will learn how to combine technical procedures with practical approach to managing the job site. These concepts will then teach the students how pricing of the job is created.
• Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) is a course designed to review the process for inspecting and investigating crime and trauma scenes. This may involve blood and other potentially infectious material. The course will focus on the procedures to follow as well as the precautions that must be taken in such an environment.
• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) is designed to teach restoration personnel that perform remediation work to give them a better concept of water damage, effects, and techniques for drying of structures. This course gives the background to understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

If your Elgin home or business is faced with a disaster such as a flood or fire, we are the certified experts who have been properly trained to know exactly what to do. Let SERVPRO of Elgin apply quality solutions to any type of damage you are experiencing. We are the 24-hour emergency service and can quickly respond whenever the service is needed. To contact our office for service or any questions call (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin

Chimney fires can be prevented

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your fireplace clean to prevent chimney fires

One of the best ways to prevent a disaster is to keep your fireplace clean. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 30% of heating fires are a result of unclean chimneys and equipment. This is due to a substance called creosote. Creosote is a byproduct of wood combustion that consists mainly of tar. Traces of this substance are found in the smoke that rises from open flames. When smoke is rising to the top of your chimney, it will mix with cold air and water to solidify and stick to the chimney liner. Creosote is not something that fixes itself either. It grows in a self-perpetuating cycle since it accumulates when there is lack of ventilation. This is a huge hazard because creosote is extremely flammable and can cause a destructive, deadly house fire.

            Creosote forms naturally, so there is no way to completely avoid it while using your fireplace. Small amounts of presence of creosote is not the issues, it’s the buildup of this substance that is problematic. There are three stages of creosote buildup and here is how you can appropriately respond to each stage to get the best cleaning. When you decide it’s time to clean your chimney, ensure you use a trained professional.

1. State One- A small amount of creosote is present and has a thin, flaky texture. At this stage, the coating can easily be brushed away by a technician using a specialized brush.
2. Stage Two- A medium size amount of creosote is present which consents of more tar and soot. At this stage, it is a little tougher to remove the substance. To remove it, it would be most beneficial to use a rotary loop tool attached to a drill.
3. Stage Three- A large amount of creosote is present which is very concentrated. It can feel either sticky and oily or hard and shiny depending if the coating is fresh. At this stage, it may actually be more cost-effective to simply replace the chimney liner than try to clean it.

Although there is no way to completely avoid creosote, you can take simple actions to slow the process of its buildup. Consider the following tips:

• Only use dry, seasoned wood in your chimney. This is wood that has been left to dry for at least 6 months
• Never burn artificial logs because they produce more combustion byproduct than regular wood
• Make sure your fire has an adequate amount of air
• Schedule an annual chimney cleaning and inspection

Unfortunately, sometimes disaster still happen despite taking the steps to prevent an accident. If your Elgin Home has experienced a fire due to creosote buildup, don’t feel you’re in this alone. We are the certified fire restoration experts and know how to bring your home back to preloss conditions. You can count on us to immediately assess the damages and begin the remediation and restoration process. For services or any questions, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin

Ice dams are problems just waiting to happen

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Ice dams

In the movies, snow covered roofs and icicles paint the perfect picture for a winter scenery. It may look pretty, but unfortunately, the idealistic icicle look can be a sign of ice damming. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation.

Ice damming is caused by the snow being exposed to inconsistent surface temperatures on your Elgin home’s roof. The primary source of heat is from the inside of your home. Did you know heat from the house travels to the roof surface in three different ways?

• Conduction is heat energy traveling through a solid
• Convection is the heat transfer that rises from the heated area.
• Radiation is also a heat transfer by electromagnetic waves

If you spot an ice dam on your Elgin home, one common way to remove it is by using calcium chloride ice melt. Follow these simple steps to remove the dams and prevent further damage:

1. Using a roof rake, remove snow 3-4 feet from the edge of your roof and being careful not to damage the roof covering
2. Use a nylon stocking to fill with the calcium chloride ice melt
3. Safely place and position the calcium chloride-filled nylon stocking vertically across the ice dam so that it can melt a channel through the ice

 Sometimes accidents still happen, and you have experienced a water loss from your Elgin home’s ice dam. While many believe a water damage from an ice dam can easily get resolved in your Elgin home, often conventional drying methods are not enough.

From the moment your accident occurs, your property, materials, and contents are exposed to water and begin to absorb the moisture. The best solution for your home’s water loss is to hire professional restoration specialists like our team. It is easy for your situation to get out of hand and endure further damage. This is why one of the advantages to SERVPRO of Elgin is that we are a 24-hour emergency service. Our team is ready to service your water damage needs at any time. To learn more about our franchise or schedule a service, call our office (847) 697 8500

Another tool to help solve difficult problems

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Using an IR thermometer to check surface temps

Winter can be a challenging time to try and determine what is causing problems within a building. We can have rain, snow or ice on the outside of the building and that might be getting moisture into the structure. Another issue can be very challenging to evaluate. Cold. 

When the outside temp gets very cold, any problems with insulation in the structure can start to show up. The inside temp may very well be 68 degrees or higher. However, if the insulation in the walls or ceiling is missing in spots, (which is more common than you might think) then the inside surface temperature of those walls may be colder than the surrounding air temp. Much colder. 

Having a very cold surface temp along with warm, moist air temps can cause condensation on those cold surfaces. (Think about taking a cold beverage out of your refrigerator) Having condensation on drywall can cause the surface to get wet or even possibly grow mold, if left wet for long periods of time.

Many restoration professionals have been left scratching their heads trying to find the source of a wet surface in these situations. 

An important tool in these situations is a laser thermometer. These tools can show surface temperatures which might be very different then the surrounding area. This may be the difference between solving a challenging problem and not.

Having experienced professionals available to help you solve your challenging problems is how SERVPRO of Elgin sets ourselves apart from the rest!

Storms can come in all forms!!

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Wall thermostat picture

Wind, rain, storms and flooding do a lot of damage every year in this country, Billions of dollars of damage. But recently we have had another type of disaster that has also caused billions of dollars of damage. Cold temperatures, or polar vortexes. 

When really cold temperatures affect an area, that can cause a strain on infrastructure, such as electricity. Without electricity, a building may loss its ability to keep the inside temperature high enough to prevent damage do to freezing pipes. These temperatures may not be sub-zero temps like those sometimes reached in the northern and midwestern states. Those temps only need to be below freezing to cause damage, especially in buildings that don't normally experiences temps that cold.

When temperatures are expected to really drop, we can take steps to help prevent pipes from freezing. 

A big help is keeping the overall inside temp warm. Some people go out of their homes or on vacation and they turn down the thermostat to the low 50's. That may seem warm, but there are areas within buildings where the temp may be much less than the thermostat setting, such as inside exterior walls, inside cabinets and vanities with water pipes and areas that might have cold air infiltration such as windows and doors. 

When the outside temps start to drop, take steps to protect your home. Open cabinets and vanities which have pipes. Let warm air get into those spaces; you could use a fan if needed. 

Let water drip, slowly out of pipes, especially if they are on exterior walls. Allowing water to drip will keep the water moving in a pipe and those pipes will be harder to freeze. And most importantly, keep the inside temps warm.

The damage caused by a burst pipe can be severe. Be aware during cold snaps to the inside conditions of your home. It may keep you from having to deal with a major water damage situation!

What are pipe breaks in a commercial building like??

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

How many potential issues can you identify?

They are a mess, that is what they are; they are a mess!! 

Overhead pipes tend to soak suspended ceiling tiles and walls and those tend to fall to the ground pulling ceiling grids, florescent lights, sound systems, fire alarms, and security sensors to the ground as well.

It may just look like puddles but where is all of that wetness going as it evaporates into the air? Into anything that is dry. Floor stock, packing materials, dry structural material and also increasing the overall humidity in the environment. This can cause secondary damages that may far exceed the original damages caused by the primary water loss. 

A facilities manager may make the decision to just extract the water and just keep everyone working. She may think that is the best decision for the company but not thinking through all of the ramifications that can arise due to secondary damage can cause much worse damage. If they supply OEM with assembly parts, what if rust develops on those parts? What if the packaging starts to deform due to excessive moisture? What if manufacturing tolerances are very tight, and the equipment starts having "problems?"

At SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County we will discuss the entire issue with the company representatives so that educated decisions can be made. 

Being late on a shipment can be really bad. Loosing a customer may close the doors forever. Use the professionals who can help you identify all of the problems and help you organize the issues and respond appropriately. 

Commercial water damages and the unique problems they pose

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Water on the floor here is not the biggest issue.

They can bring a robust business to stand still, instantly! 

Overhead pipes tend to soak suspended ceiling tiles and walls and those tend to fall to the ground pulling ceiling grids, florescent lights, sound systems, fire alarms, and security sensors to the ground as well.

It may just look like puddles but where is all of that wetness going as it evaporates into the air? Into anything that is dry. Floor stock, packing materials, dry structural material and also increasing the overall humidity in the environment. This can cause secondary damages that may far exceed the original damages caused by the primary water loss. 

A facilities manager may make the decision to just extract the water and just keep everyone working. She may think that is the best decision for the company but not thinking through all of the ramifications that can arise due to secondary damage can cause much worse damage. If they supply OEM with assembly parts, what if rust develops on those parts? What if the packaging starts to deform due to excessive moisture? What if manufacturing tolerances are very tight, and the equipment starts having "problems?"

At SERVPRO of DeKalb County we will discuss the entire issue with the company representatives so that educated decisions can be made. 

Being late on a shipment can be really bad. Loosing a customer may close the doors forever. Use the professionals who can help you identify all of the problems and help you organize the issues and respond appropriately. 

Fires before the paint even dries

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke on unfinished trim wood

You are enjoying the opportunity to design your own home. Picking the cabinets, colors, lights, fixtures, absolutely everything. As the deliveries are made, you can see the unmistakable progress marching on to completion. The biggest issue is, will we get done and moved in before _______. You fill in the blank. 

In your wildest nightmare you never imagined, what if we have a fire? What will need to be replaced, or reordered? What is salvageable? Can the mitigation vendor work with our construction team to try and keep the overall project moving? But these accidents do happen. Maybe due to an electrical issue. Maybe due to a careless placement of a cigarette or the placing of numerous wood staining rags into a pipe that spontaneously combusts into a fire. 

These fires can be even more difficult due to the unfinished and unpainted surfaces absorbing smoke smells and combustion residue.

A careful review of all surfaces needs to be performed to determine what can be cleaned, what can be encapsulated, and unfortunately what will need to be replaced. It can be sad to have to replace brand new items that were never used before. But our job is to get the structure back to "preloss" condition, how ever that needs to be done.

Mold cleanup from a flooded basement

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

How did that mold get there?

This time of year we seem to get heavy rains that just soak the ground. Sometimes that water makes its way into our basements and we might not notice. This can happen if our sump pumps are either not working or might not be able to keep up with a heavy rain. 

Another potential cause might be a crack in the foundation wall. These are harder to identify because the walls might be covered with insulation and drywall. 

If we don't go into our basements often, we might be surprised to find wet content, a mildew smell or even mold growth.

SERVPRO of Elgin provides the mold services you need to restore your basement. We have specialty tools such as water detection meters, infrared cameras, and decades of experience to provide you with the correct services you need. 

We have been serving our communities for going on 19 years and pride ourselves on giving homeowners and business professionals the truth of what we see is happening to your facility. We will also provide you with a solution that meets your needs. No hype, no scare tactics just clear well thought out solutions to get you back on track.

We are family owned and we plan on being here for generations to come providing the same educated, honest assistance we have for the past two decades.

SERVPRO of Elgin, making it "Like it never even happened."

Cozy up to fireplace Safety

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your fireplace in good working order

Fireplaces can add the ambiance of warmth and tranquility to your Elgin home on a chilly Sunday morning. It is important to remember if you don’t take care of your fireplace, your warmth and tranquility, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. And it can all start with the cleanliness of your chimney.

One of the best ways to prevent a disaster is to keep your fireplace clean. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 30% of heating fires are a result of unclean chimneys and equipment. This is due to a substance called creosote. Creosote is a byproduct of wood combustion that consists mainly of tar. Traces of this substance are found in the smoke that rises from open flames. When smoke is rising to the top of your chimney, it will mix with cold air and water to solidify and stick to the chimney liner. Creosote is not something that fixes itself either. It grows in a self-perpetuating cycle since it accumulates when there is lack of ventilation. This is a huge hazard because creosote is extremely flammable and can cause a destructive, deadly house fire.

            Creosote forms naturally, so there is no way to completely avoid it while using your fireplace. Small amounts of presence of creosote is not the issues, it’s the buildup of this substance that is problematic. There are three stages of creosote buildup and here is how you can appropriately respond to each stage to get the best cleaning. When you decide it’s time to clean your chimney, ensure you use a trained professional.

1. Stage One- A small amount of creosote is present and has a thin, flaky texture. At this stage, the coating can easily be brushed away by a technician using a specialized brush.
2. Stage Two- A medium size amount of creosote is present which consents of more tar and soot. At this stage, it is a little tougher to remove the substance. To remove it, it would be most beneficial to use a rotary loop tool attached to a drill.
3. Stage Three- A large amount of creosote is present which is very concentrated. It can feel either sticky and oily or hard and shiny depending if the coating is fresh. At this stage, it may actually be more cost-effective to simply replace the chimney liner than try to clean it.

Although there is no way to completely avoid creosote, you can take simple actions to slow the process of its buildup. Consider the following tips:

• Only use dry, seasoned wood in your chimney. This is wood that has been left to dry for at least 6 months
• Never burn artificial logs because they produce more combustion byproduct than regular wood
• Make sure your fire has an adequate amount of air
• Schedule an annual chimney cleaning and inspection

Unfortunately, sometimes disaster still happen despite taking the steps to prevent an accident. If your Elgin Home has experienced a fire due to creosote buildup, don’t feel you’re in this alone. We are the certified fire restoration experts and know how to bring your home back to preloss conditions. You can count on us to immediately assess the damages and begin the remediation and restoration process. For services or any questions, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin

Keep your home safe from fires this winter

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical outlet fire

Did you know there are several hazards that increase the risk for a fire during the Elgin winters? People don’t think their Elgin home could be at risk for fires during the colder months, but there are many hazards that you need to watch out for in the winter. It’s important to be aware of each risk and how to avoid having a winter fire. The top two causes for fires during the winter are electrical and heating. Let’s going into further detail why these factors pose a fire risk and how you can stay fire-free this winter:

1. Electrical

Electricity is the leading cause of home fires in the United States. Roughly half of all electrical home fire involve electrical distribution or lighting equipment. The top risks include faulty outlets, light fixtures, extension cords, and wiring. Many of these items do not seem dangerous, but according to the U.S. Fire Administration, 43% of the electrical fires were caused by a malfunction. Consider the following tips to avoid electrical fires and stay safe this winter season:

• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets where they can get damaged
• Have qualified electricians add more receptacle outlets in your home to reduce the use of extension cords
• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture. The maximum wattage is located on the lamp’s sticker
• Keep electrical cords away from children and pets

2. Heating

Heating is the second largest leading cause of United States home fires. December, January, and February are the peak months for heating fires. This is because we are trying to keep our Elgin homes warm during this time of year. Heating equipment includes wall furnaces, space heater, fireplace, and heat lamps. Most often, space heaters are the type of equipment involved in these types of fires. In fact, 86% of deaths from fires caused by heating are due to space heaters. Consider the following tips to avoid heating fires and how to stay safe this winter:

• Keep anything that burns at least 3 feet away from heating equipment
• Never use the oven to heat your home
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and professionally inspected every year
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters

SERVPRO of Elgin is your Elgin area fire restoration cleanup service. We are the certified technicians who can provide you peace of mind if a fire were to happen in your Elgin Home. You can always count on the fast response and the expertise of our SERVPRO of Elgin specialists to make you and your family feel “Like it never even happened.”

Learn more about Elgin

We have the tools and experience to handle it all!

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Drying out wood floors

Many disasters can take place inside your Elgin home or business when you least expect it. If a disaster were to happen, luckily SERVPRO of Elgin is always ready for whatever happens. When it comes to water damage, our trained technicians have an array of specialized equipment to bring your Elgin home back to preloss conditions. At SERVPRO of Elgin, we use the specialized equipment to help speed up the extraction and drying process. SERVPRO of Elgin is fully equipped with the following tools to restore any home and make it feel “Like it never even happened.”

1. Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in your Elgin home’s carpets and paddings. This tool has sharp probes that penetrate through carpets and padding to determine if water has migrated on the subflooring. If there is moisture, the sensor will provide both blinking and beeping as a signal. The greater the amount of moisture, the faster the lights and beeping will become.
2. Moisture Meters are utilized to measure the actual content or levels of various materials. This tool can be penetrative and non-penetrative depending on what needs to be measured. For example, penetrative meters will be used on carpet while non-penetrative meters will be used on drywall.
3. Extractors are used to provide sufficient water removal in your Elgin home. There are several different types of extractors to use such as Truck-Mounted, Light Wands, or Stationary tools. Factors in each situation such as depth of water and available power will give the technicians a better idea of what to use.
4. Air Movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level and reduce drying time.
5. Dehumidifiers are used to remove water vapor from the air. This reduces the amount of water vapor in the air which lowers the humidity ratio. This is important because lower humidity increases the rate of evaporation of moisture.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a recognized Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) firm for the past 16 years. Every technician for SERVPRO of Elgin is certified and knows how to utilize our unique tools to bring your home back to preloss conditions. We are a 24-hour service and are here to help you with any water damage needs you face in your Elgin home. If you need to schedule service, please contact our office: (847) 697-8500.

Lean more about Elgin

Are you kidding me?!

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Doing mold remediation in a car

Having a water damage in your house and the possibility of mold due to that is an upsetting thought. What about the possibility of mold within our vehicles?

The cars that are built and sold today are quality checked and inspected and interior problems are rare. 

However, how would you know if you had a problem? Well frankly, it is tough to determine. Our local climate is very wet in spring, we can have heavy rains in summer and fall, and winters are cold and we carry snow and ice into our cars from our shoes and boots.

The same rules apply to cars as with our homes, "you don't have a mold problem, you have a moisture problem."

Be aware of your car’s environment. Do a quick inspection, especially after heavy rains. Check for signs of wetness on carpeting, your dash, seats or headliner. Listen for signs of water accumulation in the duct work, (usually noticeable when you turn and you hear sloshing.) Finally, do you smell a musty odor in the car.

The mold damage professionals can handle any situation that you will encounter!

Learn more about Elgin!

Fall storms can be particularly problematic

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Looks mighty dark there!

Everyone enjoys the spring and blooming flower in Elgin, but what people do not like is the variety of harsh weather conditions that come during this season. Your home takes a beating during storms, so it is very important for you to maintain and protect them. Luckily, there are plenty of preventative measures homeowners can take to help reduce damage if and when a severe storm hits. Consider the following tips to keep your home safe this season:

• Trim and maintain your trees. They are a risk to possibly damage your home’s exterior or break a window. When heavy rain hits Kane County, it also gives the possibility for trees to be uprooted from the ground as well.
• Secure your fence. Ensure your fences are fully secured to prevent them being lifted from the ground.
• Secure furniture. Patio furniture is a lovely touch for your backyard. Unfortunately, heavy winds can cause items like chairs and toys to be moved. This poses a possible risk to damage either your furniture or your home’s exterior. You can prevent this by anchoring furniture or moving items inside.
• Check your gutters. Gutters need to remain clear at all times. Clear gutters allow water to flow away from your home. If they are not maintained, it can cause water to overflow and create leaks. There is also a risk for your roof to collapse from the built-up pressure. Set a couple of hours aside to clean gutters and make sure they are properly working.
• Protect your shingles. Make sure your shingles are secure to endure storms in Elgin. If they ever become loose, you can repair each shingle with either roof tar or sealant spray.
• Stock a basic emergency kit. Intense storms in the Kane County area can leave you without electric, water, gas, or sewage for a few hours or even days. Stock your family’s emergency kit without enough food, water, and supplies to carry everyone through at least three days. A basic emergency kit can include: Water, food, and flashlight.
• Know your policy. It’s critical to read and understand your insurance policy. Be sure to frequently examine your property to ensure there are no physical or liability hazards.

If your home has been damaged by a storm, SERVPRO of Elgin can take of any needs you and your family have after a disaster. Don’t feel alone during this stressful time. We can take the stress out of fixing any water or fire damage from storms. We are a 24-hour service and are “Here to Help” whenever you need us. For services and any questions, call: (847)-697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin here.

Gutters are important to keep your basement dry. Really!!

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Gutters and downspouts

From intense wind, heavy snow fall, and rain showers, your Elgin home endures a lot of storms throughout the year. When these storms hit, your gutters are busy at work. Their job is to control the flow of rainwater which protects your roof, walls, foundation, and landscape. Unfortunately, they can also be at risk for causing serious additional problems if they are not maintained.

            If your gutters are not maintained after enduring Elgin’s storms, you can easily be at risk for potential water damage which can cost thousands of dollars. Since the job of gutters is to carry water away from the home’s foundation, it cannot do its function without clear paths. Clogged gutters will eventually overflow onto the foundation of the home. And depending on the amount of water and condition of the foundation, water could seep into your basement or crawl space. Clogged gutters can also pose a weight strain on your roof and fascia. This could cause your roof to collapse and causing damage to the shingles of the roof and exterior of the house.

            A routine cleaning of your gutters can prevent damage to your roof, exterior, foundation, and save you a lot of money in damage repairs. By setting aside a couple of hours, follow these steps to easily clean them yourself and ensure they are functioning properly:

1. Protect your hands and keep them dry by wearing latex gloves
2. Begin cleaning near the downspout
3. Clear large debris such as leaves and twigs by hand
4. Remove and clean downspout strainers
5. Flush out the gutter with your garden hose. Start at the opposite end of the downspout
6. Check the downspout for any lodged debris and remove any remaining debris
7. Use a pressure washer to remove any mildew and dirt from the gutters

If your Elgin home has experienced water damage, be proactive by partnering with SERVPRO of Elgin to dry out the damaged area. We are the water restoration experts and you can count on us to remove and repair water damage. We are a 24-hour service and can respond to the call at any time. To schedule an estimate or if you have any questions, call (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin.

Will your company survive that fire?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Planning can be thing that saves your company

Did you know that over 50% of businesses that have a major event such as a severe water damage or fire, never recover?! The loss of key customers due to delays in getting your operation back up and running could be the difference between success and never opening your doors again.

It is a scary thought.

Help your company by having SERVPRO schedule an ERP inspection. Our Emergency Ready Program will help facility managers prepare for the unthinkable. We start by identifying important facility information, such as water shut offs, and critical areas of importance within the building. By doing this we can allow our emergency restoration professionals to concentrate their efforts on the areas that will provide you the flexibility to stay in operation and maintaining your important clients needs until the entire cleanup is completed.

A little planning today can provide a lot of reassurance in the future.

Contact SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County at 847.697.8500 to schedule an inspection!

DON'T turn down the thermostat when you leave home!

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from a broken pipe

Cold weather is right around the corner. Can you feel it in the air?

Some people turn down the thermostat in their homes to save money while they are away on vacation, business trips or maybe a long weekend get-away.

However, turning down the thermostat while away from home in winter can cause pipes to freeze and burst. The temperature inside wall cavities and within cabinets where you have water pipes may be colder, in fact much colder than where the thermostat is. This might not be a problem when you have the thermostat set at 68 degrees. However, if you turn down your thermostat to say 50 degrees, those cold areas of your home might drop in temperature far enough to cause pipes to freeze.

When pipes break, the damage can be extensive, especially if you are away from home for a while. Imagine how wet things will get in your home if you were to open a faucet and let it run with the drain closed for a couple of days. Having a pipe break will have the same effect. This homeowner found out the hard way.

This house had quite a bit of damage when the homeowner returned. Small uncaulked openings in the exterior wall allowed super cold winter air to get inside the ceiling and freezing a large water line.

Luckily SERVPRO of Elgin was there to help them get back in their home quickly!

SERVPRO of Elgin, 847.697.8500 is there when you need experienced professionals to solve your problems!!

Safety tip from your firefighters: "Close Before You Doze!"

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Keep doors closed when you sleep

Close Before You Doze is a public fire safety campaign promoted by The UL Firefighter Safety Research. It has been proven during a fire, a closed door can make the difference between 100 degrees and 1,000 degrees. This significant difference has promoted the habit of sleeping with doors closed. It can help add critical time to your escape if a fire were to happen.

This is especially important with the “evolving fire environment”, caused by the increase use of synthetics in modern homes. Forty years ago, the average time needed to escape a burning home was seventeen minutes. Today, the evolving fire environment has caused it to drop to only three minutes. The change in construction materials, furnishings and open layouts, has caused drastic reduction time. These factors allow the fire to spread and become more toxic much quicker.

It is common for people to want to leave the door open whether they have kids or do not think a door can make a significant difference. In fact, only 29% of people always sleep with their door closed. Therefore, it is very important for families to understand the lifesaving difference a closed door will make. A fire needs heat, fuel, and oxygen to grow. So, when a door is closed, it limits the fire’s resources to spread. Furthermore, when a door is closed, not as much carbon monoxide will enter the room. This will keep the oxygen at a breathable level for additional time. The reduction of toxic smoke, improved oxygen levels, and decreased room temperatures will give you more time to escape the fire just by simply closing your door.

Closing the door when you go to sleep is one thing, but if there is an actual fire, it is critical to know the next steps of determining if the door is safe to open. First, you should look for smoke coming through the cracks in the door. If there is smoke, do not open the door. Next, gently touch the door to see if it is hot. If it is hot, do not open the door. Checking the door should be part of your escape plan. Make sure your family has established and rehearsed a plan to exit a burning fire. 

Home Escape Plans can Save Lives

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Plan to get out of your house in a fire

In the past 40 years, time available for escaping from a fire has dropped from 17 minutes to less than 3 minutes due to the evolution of materials in modern homes. This makes it vital to create and practice an emergency escape plan. Home fires are the single most common disaster across the nation, but only 26% of Americans have developed an escape plan for a fire.

When developing your plan, here are a few suggestions:

• Draw a map of each level in your home. Locate all the doors, windows, and identify two ways to exit each room.
• Consider a collapsible escape ladder for your second and third floors. You should only buy them from a recognized testing laboratory.
• Choose an outside meeting place. It should be in front of your home, but also a safe distance away from the fire.
• Some examples include: Neighbor’s house, light post, mailbox, or stop sign.
• If your doors or windows have security bars, make sure the bars have emergency release devices inside so they can be opened immediately.
• Emergency release devices do not compromise your security
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.

Pets are a part of your family too. Half of a million pets are affected by home fires each year. Here are a few tips to creating an escape plan for your animal(s):

• Pets will be afraid. Put your dog on a leash and keep your cat in a carrier. This will secure them with you and prevent them from fleeing.
• Identify your pet’s favorite hiding place ahead of time, as this is where they will most likely be hiding if a fire starts.
• Post “pet rescue stickers” to a front window, in an easy-to-spot location. The decal includes number of pets in your home, so rescuers know who to look for when entering.

When you are not home, contain them near an exit. It will provide a better chance of firefighters finding your animal.

Fall is a beautiful season, but it does have risks

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Take care with your holiday decorations

The leaves are falling, the temperature is dropping, and the holiday season is fast approaching. With Thanksgiving around the corner and Christmas right behind it, there is no shortage of holiday spirit around this time of year. Everyone loves displaying their cornucopia, dried cornstalks and scented candles. These are all classic hallmarks of the fall holidays, but they can also be very dangerous. Decorations are the cause of 800 reported fires each year. Here are a few tips to keep your decorations from going up in flames:

• Use battery powered lights instead of candles
• Do not leave candles unattended or lit while you sleep
• Keep flammable décor like dried flowers, cornstalk, and crepe paper away from open flames
• Verify that all holiday lights and extension cords have been tested by an organization such as Factory Mutual or Underwriters Laboratory

Fall is also filled with many activities. From apple picking to corn mazes, fall has some of the most fun activities, but some of them can also pose a fire risk. For examples, bonfires are perfect for roasting marshmallows or gathering around on a chilly night, but there needs to be cautionary steps when handling them:

• Set your bonfire up at least 25 feet away from structures
• Never use gasoline, kerosene, or any other flammable liquid to start a fire
• Use a match or lighter to ignite tinder
• Keep the fire small and controlled. Never leave it unattended
• Keep a hose, bucket of water, or sand nearby to extinguish the fire once you’re finished
• Read more about Elgin’s rules on open fires here

Beat the freeze this winter

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

Ice covered pipe valve

When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets. This happens because water has a unique property where it expands as it freezes. The expansion puts tremendous amount of pressure on whatever is containing it. During the frigid winter months, pipe bursts are the most common cause of property damage. The pipes most at risk are those in unheated interior spaces such as basements, attics, and garages. But even the pipes in your cabinets or exterior walls are still at risk. According to Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, homeowners can see costs surpassing $5,000 in water damage.

Once the weather starts to get colder, you should take measures to keep your pipes warm. Precautionary steps should be taken when the temperature hit around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Those steps include: closing garage doors, opening cabinets under your sink, setting consistent thermostat temperatures, frequently running faucets, and adding insulation to high risk areas.

Unfortunately, if you turn on your faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may well have a frozen pipe. You can try thawing your pipe by turning on the water. As you heat the frozen pipe and the ice plug begins to melt, you want the water to be able to flow through. You can also try to apply heat to the section of the pipe. This includes using an electric heating pad, hair dryer, or space heater. When attempting to thaw your pipes, be careful because if the pipe already burst, the water will come flowing out and flood your home.

If flood water is not handled in a timely manner, it can jeopardize your safety and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County and let our trained professionals handle the situation to make it feel “Like it never even happened.” Whether your home has a flood, or you have a general question, we are here to help: (847) 697.8500.

Discover Elgin!!

2021 First Responders Bowl game!!!

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

First Responder Bowl

SERVPRO® of Elgin is surrounded by many First Responders who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty to protect our loved ones. Now is our chance to say thank you to the brave men and women in the community. We are honoring their service and sacrifice of America’s First Responders by giving them the chance to win a trip to the SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl.

This is an all-expense paid trip which includes two game tickets, flight tickets, lodging, and transportation. This year the SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl is on Tuesday, December 28^th. For the third year in a row, the game will be played at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Kickoff is set for 3:15 p.m. CT and the matchup will air on ESPN.

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 emergency trained military personnel. We are looking for First Responders who have:

• Saved a life in their career
• Retired after serving many years
• Injured and back at work
• Trained First Responders
• Fallen in the line of duty
• Accomplished something remarkable

SERVPRO® of Elgin wants to give a special thanks to everyone in our Elgin/Northwest Kane County for everything they do. This includes our Police Departments: Elgin, South Elgin, Kane County Sherriff’s, Pingree Grove, and Hampshire. This also includes our Fire Departments: Elgin, Bartlett, Hoffman Estates, Hampshire, and Pingree Grove.

We are proud to be a part of this event and recognize all the incredible First Responders in the Elgin/Northwest Kane County. We are grateful for the courageous individuals who put their lives on the frontlines every day in our community.

Discover Elgin!!

Safety precautions during your commercial visit

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

We are always open for business!

SERVPRO of Dekalb is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their properties. We have helped a tremendous number of offices, hospitals, and education facilities, but that does not mean we are not here for our Dekalb area business owners for our core services! This means we are here for you when your Dekalb business or commercial space experiences a water or fire loss, mold, or damage from a storm event.

At SERVPRO of Dekalb, we are prepared to continue providing our clients with a safe and comfortable experience. To ensure the safety and well-being of our clients and their businesses, we implemented additional steps recommended by the CDC into our job processes. This includes all technicians and SERVPRO employees to wear face masks during client visits. We also place an air scrubber into the affected area to promote clean air in the client’s home. Lastly, every employee has their temperature taken each morning to verify they are eligible to perform work for our clients.

SERVPRO of Dekalb will continue to answer your phone calls, provide estimates, and help with any restoration services you might need. Restoration is defined as essential as our services are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and operation for the people of the Dekalb area. Per our mission, we will be “Here to Help” when you need us most and provide a service that keeps your business functioning. We will continue to monitor this situation with the goal of keeping you and your business, staff, and customers comfortable during these uncertain times.

Whether you need deep cleaning services or water restoration, we are here to service you on your schedule as we are a 24-hour emergency business. If you or your family has any additional questions about our services or protocol, please do not hesitate to call our office: (815) 758-3900.

Learn more about Dekalb.

Even small storms can cause a great deal of damage

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Ceiling damage

There are dozens of severe storm events across the country every year. Many of those can cause hundreds of millions of dollars in damages to homes, businesses and infrastructure. These events overwhelm local resources and that is when SERVPRO really shines!! We love to turn these towns GREEN!

Realizing that your Elgin home or business has sustained damage due to a storm is hard to deal with. What do you do? Who do you call?

There is one bit of advice that we can give you that can save you thousands of dollars; Call SERVPRO of Elgin fast!! 847.697.8500. Water damage doesn't just sit in your home and business. It spreads, everywhere. It wicks up the walls, into adjacent rooms. It even evaporates into the air and can cause "secondary damage" to areas of your building you are not even aware of. 

Even after you have sucked up the visible water off the floor and out of the carpet, water is still causing more damage every minute. 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County has the training, experience and equipment to get your building stabilized fast and minimize the damage that water causes.

Learn more about Elgin.

SERVPRO responds to storms like no one else!!!

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Reay to roll!

What is one of the greatest things about working with SERVPRO during storms? BECAUSE WE ARE HUGE AND CAN SEND HUNDREDS OF CREWS!!!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County is a part of the "Storm Response Teams." We keep a 36-foot trailer fully stocked with equipment and supplies so we can quickly respond to emergency situations. We will bring that trailer along with a couple of box trucks and vans full of our fully trained and experienced crew.

We bring enough equipment, crew and supplies that we can arrive onsite and start performing work for either dozens of homes or a large corporate facility immediately when we roll into town.

When you combine our formidable response with hundreds of other SERVPROs from around the nation, we literally "Paint the town Green."

We respond to storms like no one else. Residential, commercial and industrial all taken care of by the Men and Women or SERVPRO!!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County; painting our town Green!!

Learn more about Elgin.

Gutters are SO IMPORTANT!!

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Gutters work to keep us dry!

From intense wind, heavy snow fall, and rain showers, your Elgin home endures a lot of storms throughout the year. When these storms hit, your gutters are busy at work. Their job is to control the flow of rainwater which protects your roof, walls, foundation, and landscape. Unfortunately, they can also be at risk for causing serious additional problems if they are not maintained.

            If your gutters are not maintained after enduring Elgin’s storms, you can easily be at risk for potential water damage which can cost thousands of dollars. Since the job of gutters is to carry water away from the home’s foundation, it cannot do its function without clear paths. Clogged gutters will eventually overflow onto the foundation of the home. And depending on the amount of water and condition of the foundation, water could seep into your basement or crawl space. Clogged gutters can also pose a weight strain on your roof and fascia. This could cause your roof to collapse and causing damage to the shingles of the roof and exterior of the house.

            A routine cleaning of your gutters can prevent damage to your roof, exterior, foundation, and save you a lot of money in damage repairs. By setting aside a couple of hours, follow these steps to easily clean them yourself and ensure they are functioning properly:

1. Protect your hands and keep them dry by wearing latex gloves
2. Begin cleaning near the downspout
3. Clear large debris such as leaves and twigs by hand
4. Remove and clean downspout strainers
5. Flush out the gutter with your garden hose. Start at the opposite end of the downspout
6. Check the downspout for any lodged debris and remove any remaining debris
7. Use a pressure washer to remove any mildew and dirt from the gutters

If your Elgin home has experienced water damage, be proactive by partnering with SERVPRO of Elgin to dry out the damaged area. We are the water restoration team and you can count on us to remove and repair water damage. We are a 24-hour service and can respond to the call at any time. To schedule an estimate or if you have any questions, call (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin.

It's spring storm season

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

That looks like trouble!

Everyone enjoys the spring and blooming flower in Elgin, but what people do not like is the variety of harsh weather conditions that come during this season. Your home takes a beating during storms, so it is very important for you to maintain and protect them. Luckily, there are plenty of preventative measures homeowners can take to help reduce damage if and when a severe storm hits. Consider the following tips to keep your home safe this season:

• Trim and maintain your trees. They are a risk to possibly damage your home’s exterior or break a window. When heavy rain hits Kane County, it also gives the possibility for trees to be uprooted from the ground as well.
• Secure your fence. Ensure your fences are fully secured to prevent them being lifted from the ground.
• Secure furniture. Patio furniture is a lovely touch for your backyard. Unfortunately, heavy winds can cause items like chairs and toys to be moved. This poses a possible risk to damage either your furniture or your home’s exterior. You can prevent this by anchoring furniture or moving items inside.
• Check your gutters. Gutters need to remain clear at all times. Clear gutters allow water to flow away from your home. If they are not maintained, it can cause water to overflow and create leaks. There is also a risk for your roof to collapse from the built-up pressure. Set a couple of hours aside to clean gutters and make sure they are properly working.
• Protect your shingles. Make sure your shingles are secure to endure storms in Elgin. If they ever become loose, you can repair each shingle with either roof tar or sealant spray.
• Stock a basic emergency kit. Intense storms in the Kane County area can leave you without electric, water, gas, or sewage for a few hours or even days. Stock your family’s emergency kit without enough food, water, and supplies to carry everyone through at least three days. A basic emergency kit can include: Water, food, and flashlight.
• Know your policy. It’s critical to read and understand your insurance policy. Be sure to frequently examine your property to ensure there are no physical or liability hazards.

If your home has been damaged by a storm, SERVPRO of Elgin can take of any needs you and your family have after a disaster. Don’t feel alone during this stressful time. We can take the stress out of fixing any water or fire damage from storms. We are a 24-hour service and are “Here to Help” whenever you need us. For services and any questions, call: (847)-697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin here.

Getting ready for the storm

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Caution, wet streets ahead!

SERVPRO of Elgin/NW Kane County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Elgin/NW Kane County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,850 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 847-697-8500

Learn more about Elgin

Cozy up to fireplace safety in Elgin

3/20/2021 (Permalink)

Nice and cozy. keep it that way!!

Fireplaces can add the ambiance of warmth and tranquility to your Elgin home on a chilly Sunday morning. It is important to remember if you don’t take care of your fireplace, your warmth and tranquility, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. And it can all start with the cleanliness of your chimney.

One of the best ways to prevent a disaster is to keep your fireplace clean. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 30% of heating fires are a result of unclean chimneys and equipment. This is due to a substance called creosote. Creosote is a byproduct of wood combustion that consists mainly of tar. Traces of this substance are found in the smoke that rises from open flames. When smoke is rising to the top of your chimney, it will mix with cold air and water to solidify and stick to the chimney liner. Creosote is not something that fixes itself either. It grows in a self-perpetuating cycle since it accumulates when there is lack of ventilation. This is a huge hazard because creosote is extremely flammable and can cause a destructive, deadly house fire.

            Creosote forms naturally, so there is no way to completely avoid it while using your fireplace. Small amounts of presence of creosote is not the issues, it’s the buildup of this substance that is problematic. There are three stages of creosote buildup and here is how you can appropriately respond to each stage to get the best cleaning. When you decide it’s time to clean your chimney, ensure you use a trained professional.

1. Stage One- A small amount of creosote is present and has a thin, flaky texture. At this stage, the coating can easily be brushed away by a technician using a specialized brush.
2. Stage Two- A medium size amount of creosote is present which consents of more tar and soot. At this stage, it is a little tougher to remove the substance. To remove it, it would be most beneficial to use a rotary loop tool attached to a drill.
3. Stage Three- A large amount of creosote is present which is very concentrated. It can feel either sticky and oily or hard and shiny depending if the coating is fresh. At this stage, it may actually be more cost-effective to simply replace the chimney liner than try to clean it.

Although there is no way to completely avoid creosote, you can take simple actions to slow the process of its buildup. Consider the following tips:

• Only use dry, seasoned wood in your chimney. This is wood that has been left to dry for at least 6 months
• Never burn artificial logs because they produce more combustion byproduct than regular wood
• Make sure your fire has an adequate amount of air
• Schedule an annual chimney cleaning and inspection

Unfortunately, sometimes disaster still happen despite taking the steps to prevent an accident. If your Elgin Home has experienced a fire due to creosote buildup, don’t feel you’re in this alone. We are the certified fire restoration experts and know how to bring your home back to preloss conditions. You can count on us to immediately assess the damages and begin the remediation and restoration process. For services or any questions, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin

Stop spreading the germs in Elgin

3/20/2021 (Permalink)

Ahhhh Chooooo!!!!

Flu season is in full swing here in Kane County and the spread of germs is on everyone’s mind. During this time, it is important to do our part to help stop the spread of germs. One of the first steps you can take is to keep up with the latest information and news from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They have emphasized the importance of keeping your surroundings clean and safe which include environments like the workplace, schools, commercial establishments, and homes. Each environment has proactive actions you can take to prevent the spread of germs

Workplace & school safety

• Practice good hygiene. In the workplace, avoid handshakes or use other methods of greeting. You should be keeping your space clean by disinfecting surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, desks, and hand railings.
• Where a mask whenever you are in close contact with others.
• Practice good social distancing, stay 6 feet away from others not in your social circle
• Be careful with meetings and travel. If you have the opportunity, use videoconferencing instead of face-to-face meetings. If this is not possible, try to hold your meeting in an open, well-ventilated space. In addition, assess the risk of business travel. Make sure you know how to best prepare for a safe experience at the airport.
• Handle food carefully. This means to limit food sharing and always wash your hands before consuming food. If your workplace has a cafeteria, ensure staff practice strict hygiene
• Stay at home if you are feeling sick

Home Safety

• All Elgin households should encourage everyone to wash their hands upon entering the home and avoid touching their face
• Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and handrails
• It is suggested for households with sick family members to give them their own room if possible

Commercial Establishments

• Practice good hygiene. To avoid spreading germs in Elgin, it is recommended to use other methods of greeting people rather than a handshake. At business or commercial establishments, promote tap and pay to limit handling of cash
• Avoid crowds. Being in the presence of crowds increases your chances of catching something. To avoid crowds, use online transactions where possible. If you are someone managing these establishment, consider limiting attendance at larger gatherings
• Be cautious when using public transportation. Taxis, buses, and ride shares are all very common uses of transportation and sometimes it’s hard to avoid using them when it’s your main source of getting from point A to B. Always keep hand sanitizer handy with you to use after you’ve arrived at your destination. It is also recommended to keep windows down if possible to increase ventilation

SERVPRO of Elgin is “Here to Help” to stop the spread of germs in these environments by providing our proactive cleaning services. As the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration, we have the CDC and EPA approved resources to help you immediately. Call us today to see how we can help clean your home or business: (847) 697-8500.

Ice Dams and Water Damage Restoration in your Elgin Home

3/20/2021 (Permalink)

Ice damming is not pretty!

In the movies, snow covered roofs and icicles paint the perfect picture for a winter scenery. It may look pretty, but unfortunately, the idealistic icicle look can be a sign of ice damming. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation.

Ice damming is caused by the snow being exposed to inconsistent surface temperatures on your Elgin home’s roof. The primary source of heat is from the inside of your home. Did you know heat from the house travels to the roof surface in three different ways?

• Conduction is heat energy traveling through a solid
• Convection is the heat transfer that rises from the heated area.
• Radiation is also a heat transfer by electromagnetic waves

If you spot an ice dam on your Elgin home, one common way to remove it is by using calcium chloride ice melt. Follow these simple steps to remove the dams and prevent further damage:

1. Using a roof rake, remove snow 3-4 feet from the edge of your roof and being careful not to damage the roof covering
2. Use a nylon stocking to fill with the calcium chloride ice melt
3. Safely place and position the calcium chloride-filled nylon stocking vertically across the ice dam so that it can melt a channel through the ice

 Sometimes accidents still happen, and you have experienced a water loss from your Elgin home’s ice dam. While many believe a water damage from an ice dam can easily get resolved in your Elgin home, often conventional drying methods are not enough.

From the moment your accident occurs, your property, materials, and contents are exposed to water and begin to absorb the moisture. The best solution for your home’s water loss is to hire professional restoration specialists like our team. It is easy for your situation to get out of hand and endure further damage. This is why one of the advantages to SERVPRO of Elgin is that we are a 24-hour emergency service. Our team is ready to service your water damage needs at any time. To learn more about our franchise or schedule a service, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin.

We Are the Certified Experts in The Dekalb Area

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Dekalb has been an IICRC certified firm for the past several years. And for nearly five decades, The Institution of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification stands at the forefront teaching trailblazing knowledge required to tackle complex jobs and return normalcy from chaotic environments. They provide the most comprehensive and advanced technical information in the industry. They allow companies like SERVPRO of Dekalb to advance their education and stay ahead of the competition with several IICRC certification options:

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) is a course designed to teach the effective, efficient, and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents. It uses comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment.
• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) is a course to teach the art and science of carpet cleaning to professional service providers, as well as others in the related industry. Emphasis is placed on the following: practical application, identifying fiber, carpet constructions, style types and finishes, soiling conditions, cleaning science and methodology. This course also covers pre-inspection, basic cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning technique.
• Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) is a course to teach damage inspection and evaluation, workflow management, and process administration. The course also teaches the technical methods of effective and timely drying.
• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) is a course with a concentration on technical procedure for successfully completing the restoration of a fire and smoke damaged environment. Students will learn how to combine technical procedures with practical approach to managing the job site. These concepts will then teach the students how pricing of the job is created.
• Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) is a course designed to review the process for inspecting and investigating crime and trauma scenes. This may involve blood and other potentially infectious material. The course will focus on the procedures to follow as well as the precautions that must be taken in such an environment.
• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) is designed to teach restoration personnel that perform remediation work to give them a better concept of water damage, effects, and techniques for drying of structures. This course gives the background to understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

If your Dekalb home or business is faced with a disaster such as a flood or fire, we are the certified experts who have been properly trained to know exactly what to do. Let SERVPRO of Dekalb apply quality solutions to any type of damage you experienced. We are the 24-hour emergency service and can quickly respond whenever the service is needed. To contact our office for service or any questions call (847) 578-3900.

Learn more about Dekalb

Ice Dams and Water Damage Restoration of Your Elgin Home.

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

In the movies, snow covered roofs and icicles paint the perfect picture for a winter scenery. It may look pretty, but unfortunately, the idealistic icicle look can be a sign of ice damming. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation.

Ice damming is caused by the snow being exposed to inconsistent surface temperatures on your Elgin home’s roof. The primary source of heat is from the inside of your home. Did you know heat from the house travels to the roof surface in three different ways?

• Conduction is heat energy traveling through a solid
• Convection is the heat transfer that rises from the heated area.
• Radiation is also a heat transfer by electromagnetic waves

If you spot an ice dam on your Elgin home, one common way to remove it is by using calcium chloride ice melt. Follow these simple steps to remove the dams and prevent further damage:

1. Using a roof rake, remove snow 3-4 feet from the edge of your roof and being careful not to damage the roof covering
2. Use a nylon stocking to fill with the calcium chloride ice melt
3. Safely place and position the calcium chloride-filled nylon stocking vertically across the ice dam so that it can melt a channel through the ice

 Sometimes accidents still happen, and you have experienced a water loss from your Elgin home’s ice dam. While many believe a water damage from an ice dam can easily get resolved in your Elgin home, often conventional drying methods are not enough.

From the moment your accident occurs, your property, materials, and contents are exposed to water and begin to absorb the moisture. The best solution for your home’s water loss is to hire professional restoration specialists like our team. It is easy for your situation to get out of hand and endure further damage. This is why one of the advantages to SERVPRO of Elgin is that we are a 24-hour emergency service. Our team is ready to service your water damage needs at any time. To learn more about our franchise or schedule a service, call our office (847) 697 8500

Learn more about Elgin.

Stop the Spread of Germs in Dekalb County

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Flu season is in full swing here in Dekalb County and the spread of germs is on everyone’s mind. During this time, it is important to do our part to help stop the spread of germs. One of the first steps you can take is to keep up with the latest information and news from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They have emphasized the importance of keeping your surroundings clean and safe which include environments like the workplace, schools, commercial establishments, and homes. Each environment has proactive actions you can take to prevent the spread of germs

Workplace & school safety

• Practice good hygiene. In the workplace, avoid handshakes or use other methods of greeting. You should be keeping your space clean by disinfecting surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, desks, and hand railings.
• Be careful with meetings and travel. If you have the opportunity, use videoconferencing instead of face-to-face meetings. If this is not possible, try to hold your meeting in an open, well-ventilated space. In addition, assess the risk of business travel. Make sure you know how to best prepare for a safe experience at the airport.
• Handle food carefully. This means to limit food sharing and always wash your hands before consuming food. If your workplace has a cafeteria, ensure staff practice strict hygiene
• Stay at home if you are feeling sick

Home Safety

• All Dekalb households should encourage everyone to wash their hands upon entering the home and avoid touching their face
• Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and handrails
• It is suggested for households with sick family members to give them their own room if possible

Commercial Establishments

• Practice good hygiene. To avoid spreading germs in Dekalb, it is recommended to use other methods of greeting people rather than a handshake. At business or commercial establishments, promote tap and pay to limit handling of cash
• Avoid crowds. Being in the presence of crowds increases your chances of catching something. To avoid crowds, use online transactions where possible. If you are someone managing these establishment, consider limiting attendance at larger gatherings
• Be cautious when using public transportation. Taxis, buses, and ride shares are all very common uses of transportation and sometimes it’s hard to avoid using them when it’s your main source of getting from point A to B. Always keep hand sanitizer handy with you to use after you’ve arrived at your destination. It is also recommended to keep windows down if possible to increase ventilation

SERVPRO of Dekalb is “Here to Help” to stop the spread of germs in these environments by providing our proactive cleaning services. As the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration, we have the CDC and EPA approved resources to help you immediately. Call us today to see how we can help clean your home or business: (847) 758-3900.

Cozy Up to Fireplace Safety in Elgin

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Fireplaces can add the ambiance of warmth and tranquility to your Elgin home on a chilly Sunday morning. It is important to remember if you don’t take care of your fireplace, your warmth and tranquility, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. And it can all start with the cleanliness of your chimney.

One of the best ways to prevent a disaster is to keep your fireplace clean. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 30% of heating fires are a result of unclean chimneys and equipment. This is due to a substance called creosote. Creosote is a byproduct of wood combustion that consists mainly of tar. Traces of this substance are found in the smoke that rises from open flames. When smoke is rising to the top of your chimney, it will mix with cold air and water to solidify and stick to the chimney liner. Creosote is not something that fixes itself either. It grows in a self-perpetuating cycle since it accumulates when there is lack of ventilation. This is a huge hazard because creosote is extremely flammable and can cause a destructive, deadly house fire.

            Creosote forms naturally, so there is no way to completely avoid it while using your fireplace. Small amounts of presence of creosote is not the issues, it’s the buildup of this substance that is problematic. There are three stages of creosote buildup and here is how you can appropriately respond to each stage to get the best cleaning. When you decide it’s time to clean your chimney, ensure you use a trained professional.

1. State One- A small amount of creosote is present and has a thin, flaky texture. At this stage, the coating can easily be brushed away by a technician using a specialized brush.
2. Stage Two- A medium size amount of creosote is present which consents of more tar and soot. At this stage, it is a little tougher to remove the substance. To remove it, it would be most beneficial to use a rotary loop tool attached to a drill.
3. Stage Three- A large amount of creosote is present which is very concentrated. It can feel either sticky and oily or hard and shiny depending if the coating is fresh. At this stage, it may actually be more cost-effective to simply replace the chimney liner than try to clean it.

Although there is no way to completely avoid creosote, you can take simple actions to slow the process of its buildup. Consider the following tips:

• Only use dry, seasoned wood in your chimney. This is wood that has been left to dry for at least 6 months
• Never burn artificial logs because they produce more combustion byproduct than regular wood
• Make sure your fire has an adequate amount of air
• Schedule an annual chimney cleaning and inspection

Unfortunately, sometimes disaster still happen despite taking the steps to prevent an accident. If your Elgin Home has experienced a fire due to creosote buildup, don’t feel you’re in this alone. We are the certified fire restoration experts and know how to bring your home back to preloss conditions. You can count on us to immediately assess the damages and begin the remediation and restoration process. For services or any questions, call our office (847) 697 8500.

Learn more about Elgin

A Silent Cold Weather Killer in Elgin: Carbon Monoxide

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Often called the invisible killer, Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, or propane do not burn completely. Every year, more than 400 people in the United States die from accidental non-fire related Carbon Monoxide poisoning. To know these risks are especially important during Elgin’s winter months when your commercial building is using heating equipment more frequently. Common sources of CO around your commercial building include gas space heaters, generators, water heaters, and furnaces.

            Did you know any heat producing item can produce Carbon Monoxide? Therefore, installing a detector can be a lifesaving decision for your Elgin commercial building. it is recommended to place it near any high-risk equipment. This location is most ideal because it will serve as an early warning if any CO is leaking into your commercial building. The more accurate a Carbon Monoxide alarm, the greater your chances of appropriately responding to the problem.

            The science behind why Carbon Monoxide is so dangerous is explained by American Council on Science and Health. “Carbon Monoxide loves to bind to iron. This also means that it loves to bind to hemoglobin, the iron-based protein that is responsible for distributing oxygen throughout the body. The affinity of CO to hemoglobin is so strong that the gas binds 240x more tightly to than does oxygen”. This means Carbon Monoxide does not just compete with oxygen for free hemoglobin, it displaces oxygen which inhibits your body’s ability to distribute oxygen.

            Even if your commercial building has a Carbon Monoxide detector, be aware of Carbon Monoxide Symptoms:

• Chest Pain
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Vomiting

Carbon Monoxide poisoning is very serious and can happen in your Elgin business. Fortunately, this is very preventable for you and your employees. In addition to installing detectors throughout your commercial building, consider the following tips for avoiding a dangerous situation:

• If your company stores vehicles in a warehouse, do not run vehicles inside the building. If you need to warmup the vehicle, pull it out of the warehouse or garage first
• Always have proper ventilation throughout the building
• Schedule regular maintenance for your fuel-burning equipment. Make sure it is kept clean and working properly

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SERVPRO of Elgin Saves Children's Reading Center

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

Subzero temperatures can cause a serious risk to both homeowners and business owners in Elgin. Risks can range anywhere to slippery sidewalks, ice damming, and broken heating systems. One of the most common problem people face during the winter is a frozen pipe. Frozen pipes are a big issue because they can lead to a pipe burst.  Unfortunately, in January 2019, Gail Borden Public Library experienced what everyone fears during the winter: A pipe burst.

Due to extreme cold, the library was closed to the public for two days, but staff were still checking the building around the clock. Everything seemed quiet during the temporary shut down until a Security Guard was on duty. When the guard was doing a walk-through of the building at 8pm, he was alarmed when he heard the sound of running water inside an outside wall facing the Fox River. He followed the noise and was the confronted by the sight of water literally “shooting out of the wall.”

At midnight, a call to SERVPRO® of Elgin was made and by 1:30am, the owner, George Jackowiec, and the team were on site. They worked relentlessly throughout the night to set up equipment and start extraction.  At 5:30am, drying the damaged area began and it was completed in a week. After the area was job, SERVPRO of Elgin cleaned the carpets and furniture to truly make the staff feel “Like it never even happened.”

Like Gail Borden Public Library, your pipes are at higher risk for bursts during the winter. This is because when water freezes, it expands. You can avoid a pipe burst by preventing your pipes from freezing in your Elgin business. Follow these tips to keep your commercial pipes in working order this winter:

• Insulate exterior piping
• Inspect your property on a regular basis
• Keep thermostat to the same temperature
• Know the locations of your shut-off valves in case a pipe was to break. SERVPRO of Elgin can help you plan for a disaster with an Emergency Ready Profile.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a 24-hour emergency service franchise who will always provide you peace of mind and address your water damage needs with quality solutions. Whether it’s 1pm or 1am, you can always count on SERVPRO of Elgin to take care of the job.

Learn more about Elgin.

Thank You to Our Elgin Heroes

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

The Super Bowl has us reminiscing on our third annual SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl. It was an amazing experience to watch our nominated On behalf of SERVPRO, we’re honored to present to the family of Dylan Cunningham the SERVPRO National First Responder Award. Dylan’s selflessness and dedication to serving his community made him a true hero.

In addition, 9 other outstanding First Responders were recognized at select bowl games across the county on behalf of SERVPRO®. This year’s game was held at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Louisiana and UTSA went head to head for this year’s very exciting game. The intense matchup resulted in a win for Louisiana. The final score was 31-24.

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How to Insure your Elgin Business

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

When a commercial property suffers, the business itself suffers. So, if a disaster, like water damage, happens to your Elgin business, it is necessary to have thorough insurance coverage. It is especially important to talk with your agent as not all insurance policies are made the same. In policies, water damage can also be sourced in so many ways and the coverage will vary based on your current commercial policy. It is advised to add water damage coverage or get additional coverage on top of your standard policy. This is recommended because this allows for greater range of a coverage for types of water damage sources. So, when getting quotes, pay attention to what different companies offer.

There are many insurance companies that can provide coverage for your commercial building. Below are examples of possible commercial flood insurance providers and how to contact them today to get started on your policy:

• Allstate Insurance (800) 255-7828
• Farmers Insurance (800) 435-7764
• State Farm Insurance (800) 732-5246
• The Hartford (877) 805-9918

Finding the right insurance is crucial for your business because the most common causes of water damage can be very expensive. One of the biggest causes for water damage in an Elgin commercial property are pipe bursts so being properly covered can save your business. Being properly coverage is very important for your business because commercial water damage can easily cost thousands of dollars. This makes it important for business owners to know that their policies cover such damage.

The main cause of pipe bursts are due to cold weather. When the temperatures drop, the water in the pipe freezes. This leads to it expanding and then rupturing. In addition to the weather, there are other ways a pipe can break or leak:

• Rusty Pipes- Pipes, like anything else in your Elgin home, only last so long. They will eventually start to wear out or rust over. Too much rusting or wear can make your pipes vulnerable to bursts. It is highly recommended to consistency inspect your pipes and replace the ones that have become weak or rusty. Signs of worn out pipes include discolored water, stains on the wall, and lower water pressure.
• Hard water- Hard water refers to water that contains high content of magnesium and calcium. Although they are not harmful to humans, they can harmful to your pipes. These minerals can cause build up and slow your flow of water. Furthermore, these minerals have been known to corrode the pipes and create holes that allow the water to flow out.
• Poor Installation- Pipe leaks can happen if there is a poorly soldered or fitted connection between the pipes.

If your business ends up suffering from water damage, luckily you will be insured and SERVPRO of Elgin will be able to assist you. We are the water damage professionals and have earned the trust of many property owners to make it seem “Like it never even happened.” To schedule your service, call our office: (847) 697-8500.

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A Real 5-Star Review for SERVPRO of Elgin

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

After a pipe leak causes mold growth, any homeowner can easily become stressed out from the mess their Elgin home has endured. This is especially true when personal belonging like pictures, clothes, or valued items can all become at risk to be ruined. Luckily, you won’t need to go through this alone. When you hire SERVPRO of Elgin, you can count on us to save your home. We will ease the stress and let our professionally trained technicians handle the work for you.

When one of our recent customers had mold growth from a pipe leak, they did not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Elgin. From the first inspection to finishing the rebuild work, we were able to handle every step of the progress. Once the job was completed, our customer was delighted with the quality work we provided and shared their experience on social media. We received a 5-star review which wrote:

“I had a major project needing several different contractors to complete the project. SERVPRO handled the job which included providing the different contractors. All those involved with the project were thorough, efficient, and professional. Each contractor answered any questions and addressed any concerns I had. In addition, SERVPRO's customer service is second to none. I highly recommend SERVPRO to complete any restoration and related services both big and small”

We are proud to have such a happy and satisfied customer because we strive to make it feel “Like it never even happened.” Follow us on Facebook for more customer reviews, restorative information, and Elgin community news!

And for any questions or to schedule your water mitigation service, call our office (847) 697-8500.

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We are Certified Experts in the Elgin Area

2/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Elgin has been an IICRC certified firm for the past 16 years. For nearly five decades, The Institution of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification stands at the forefront teaching trailblazing knowledge required to tackle complex jobs and return normalcy from chaotic environments. They provide the most comprehensive and advanced technical information in the industry. They allow companies like SERVPRO of Elgin to advance their education and stay ahead of the competition with several IICRC certification options:

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) is a course designed to teach the effective, efficient, and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents. It uses comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment.
• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) is a course to teach the art and science of carpet cleaning to professional service providers, as well as others in the related industry. Emphasis is placed the following: practical application, identifying fiber, carpet constructions, style types and finishes, soiling conditions, cleaning science and methodology. This course also covers pre-inspection, basic cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning technique.
• Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) is a course to teach damage inspection and evaluation, workflow management, and process administration. The course also teaches the technical methods of effective and timely drying.
• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) is a course with a concentration on technical procedure for successfully completing the restoration of a fire and smoke damaged environment. Students will learn how to combine technical procedures with practical approach to managing the job site. These concepts will then teach the students how pricing of the job is created.
• Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) is a course designed to review the process for inspecting and investigating crime and trauma scenes. This may involve blood and other potentially infectious material. The course will focus on the procedures to follow as well as the precautions that must be taken in such an environment.
• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) is designed to teach restoration personnel that perform remediation work to give them a better concept of water damage, effects, and techniques for drying of structures. This course gives the background to understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

If your Elgin home or business is faced with a disaster such as a flood or fire, we are the certified experts who have been properly trained to know exactly what to do. Let SERVPRO of Elgin apply quality solutions to any type of damage you are experiencing. We are the 24-hour emergency service and can quickly respond whenever the service is needed. To contact our office for service or any questions call (847) 697-8500.

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Put a Freeze on Winter Fires in Elgin

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Electrical issues are the leading cause of house fires

Did you know there are several hazards that increase the risk for a fire during the Elgin winters? People don’t think their Elgin home could be at risk for fires during the colder months, but there are many hazards that you need to watch out for in the winter. It’s important to be aware of each risk and how to avoid having a winter fire. The top two causes for fires during the winter are electrical and heating. Let’s going into further detail why these factors pose a fire risk and how you can stay fire-free this winter:

1. Electrical

Electricity is the leading cause of home fires in the United States. Roughly half of all electrical home fire involve electrical distribution or lighting equipment. The top risks include faulty outlets, light fixtures, extension cords, and wiring. Many of these items do not seem dangerous, but according to the U.S. Fire Administration, 43% of the electrical fires were caused by a malfunction. Consider the following tips to avoid electrical fires and stay safe this winter season:

• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets where they can get damaged
• Have qualified electricians add more receptacle outlets in your home to reduce the use of extension cords
• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture. The maximum wattage is located on the lamp’s sticker
• Keep electrical cords away from children and pets

2. Heating

Heating is the second largest leading cause of United States home fires. December, January, and February are the peak months for heating fires. This is because we are trying to keep our Elgin homes warm during this time of year. Heating equipment includes wall furnaces, space heater, fireplace, and heat lamps. Most often, space heaters are the type of equipment involved in these types of fires. In fact, 86% of deaths from fires caused by heating are due to space heaters. Consider the following tips to avoid heating fires and how to stay safe this winter:

• Keep anything that burns at least 3 feet away from heating equipment
• Never use the oven to heat your home
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and professionally inspected every year
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters

SERVPRO of Elgin is your Elgin area fire restoration cleanup service. We are the certified technicians who can provide you peace of mind if a fire were to happen in your Elgin Home. You can always count on the fast response and the expertise of our SERVPRO of Elgin specialists to make you and your family feel “Like it never even happened.”

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Fire Safety for Your Elgin Commercial Building

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Proper use of a fire extinguisher.

Did you know fires can be the costliest incident for a business? Approximately 10% of small businesses are affected by a fire with an average cost of $35,000 according to The Hartford. The National Fire Protection Association states there are five top reasons for fire in a commercial building: Cooking equipment, Heating equipment, Electrical & lighting equipment, Smoking materials, and Intentional. There are several ways for a fire to start in your Elgin business, but luckily, there are four core elements to help you and your company practice fire safety. Please consider the following to implement into your Elgin business for the safety of you and your employees:

• Fire Alarms are the first defense against the potential risks of fires and are perhaps the most important element for your commercial building’s fire safety system. Your Elgin business should always have routine inspections and maintain for all fire alarms to ensure they continue to properly work.
• Emergency lights and exit signs are designed to come on when the main power supplies are lost. These are very helpful because during a fire, conditions can be chaotic and confusing. Emergency lights and signs will make it more likely that individuals will be able to see well enough to get out of the building.
• Fire extinguishers are required by most fire codes. In general, they should be mounted on walls at distances of less than 75 feet. This means no one should have to travel more than 75 feet to get to a fire extinguisher. When using a fire extinguisher, remember “PASS”. It stands for Pull the pin, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.
• Installing a fire sprinkler will help extinguish fires before the fire department arrives. This is made possible because fire sprinklers are always “on-call”. There is a network of piping filled with water under pressure which is installed behind walls and ceilings. If a fire were to break out, the air temperature rises and once it gets hot enough, that activates the sprinkler system. After installing them, routine inspections should be done to ensure they are working properly.

If a fire were to happen to your commercial building in Elgin, do not worry about tackling fire debris and cleanup on your own. SERVPRO of Elgin is “Here to Help”. For us, the goal is to return each home in Elgin to a clean, odor-free environment as quickly as possible. As the fire restoration experts, we are confident to get the job done every time. To schedule a service and begin the restoration process for your Elgin business, call our office today: (847) 697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin. 

Our Tools Can Help Solve Your Elgin Home's Water Damage

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

1/11/2021

Many disasters can take place inside your Elgin home or business when you least expect it. If a disaster were to happen, luckily SERVPRO of Elgin is always ready for whatever happens. When it comes to water damage, our trained technicians have an array of specialized equipment to bring your Elgin home back to preloss conditions. At SERVPRO of Elgin, we use the specialized equipment to help speed up the extraction and drying process. SERVPRO of Elgin is fully equipped with the following tools to restore any home and make it feel “Like it never even happened.”

1. Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in your Elgin home’s carpets and paddings. This tool has sharp probes that penetrate through carpets and padding to determine if water has migrated on the subflooring. If there is moisture, the sensor will provide both blinking and beeping as a signal. The greater the amount of moisture, the faster the lights and beeping will become.
2. Moisture Meters are utilized to measure the actual content or levels of various materials. This tool can be penetrative and non-penetrative depending on what needs to be measured. For example, penetrative meters will be used on carpet while non-penetrative meters will be used on drywall.
3. Extractors are used to provide sufficient water removal in your Elgin home. There are several different types of extractors to use such as Truck-Mounted, Light Wands, or Stationary tools. Factors in each situation such as depth of water and available power will give the technicians a better idea of what to use.
4. Air Movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level and reduce drying time.
5. Dehumidifiers are used to remove water vapor from the air. This reduces the amount of water vapor in the air which lowers the humidity ratio. This is important because lower humidity increases the rate of evaporation of moisture.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a recognized Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) firm for the past 16 years. Every technician for SERVPRO of Elgin is certified and knows how to utilize our unique tools to bring your home back to preloss conditions. We are a 24-hour service and are here to help you with any water damage needs you face in your Elgin home. If you need to schedule service, please contact our office: (847) 697-8500.

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Spring Hit This Shopping Area Hard

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Lots of water everywhere!

1/11/2021

Spring in Illinois is know for some crazy weather and last year was no different. A sudden micro burst happened and a local strip mall was effected. It did considerable damage to the roof for the entire structure. Quite a bit of rain came into the businesses. The agent for the building was also the agent for many of the businesses. He contacted the SERVPRO of DeKalb team right away. SERVPRO of DeKalb contacted a roofing company and together they put a plan into place to tackle the job. The team went right to work and spoke with the individual business owners to walk them thru the plan for their business. The team worked many long hours to make the customers happy. In what seemed like no time the businesses were back and ready for business. The building repairs were completed and all were very pleased with the end result. 

Keep Moisture Out of your Elgin Home with Dehumidifiers

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Keeping things dry

When the temperatures drop in Elgin, we are all relieved we don’t have to deal with the hot, humid days because keeping our homes cool can be a challenge. Therefore, so many assume the cooler temperatures mean mold issues disappear in the winter. But did you know, it’s actually a year-round problem because moisture is still in your home’s air? This is possibly due to cold air outside prompting condensation to those sensitive areas such as walls, windows, attics, and basements. Other factors such as breathing, showering, and cooking all add to the humidity in your Elgin home too. Having condensation in those areas can lead to problems such as mold. 

Moisture in your home is important to monitor because if it is left untreated and mold starts to grow, it will decompose wood and rot household items such as carpeting, furniture, and insulation. Mold can cause health effects. It is extremely important to be aware of that. 

Fortunately, there are several effective ways to keep your home dry and prevent mold from infiltrating it. You can start by purchasing a dehumidifier for your home. Dehumidifiers can greatly benefit families during the winter. They can help keep humidity levels below the 50% RH threshold throughout the day. Ideally, these RH levels can be anywhere from 30%-50%. Not only will dehumidifiers remove excessive moisture in the air, it also creates an overall more comfortable atmosphere in your home. Lastly, Dehumidifiers can improve your air quality which could result in improving your home’s scent and provide relief to some allergies.

Dehumidifiers come in a wide variety of models, so which one is right for you? When choosing the best dehumidifier for your Elgin home, consider the following factors:

• The square footage of the desired space to dehumidify
• The temperature of the environment
• Levels of dampness in space

If your home has experienced water-damage from excessive moisture, we are the Elgin area experts. Our team is available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide quality emergency response services throughout the Elgin area. Our certified Technicians will help address your water problems with quality solutions. To make water damage look “Like it never even happened,” call SERVPRO® of Elgin today: 847-697-8500.

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How to Prevent Water Damage in your Elgin Community Property

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Sometimes you need to bring in the troops!

Commercial buildings for your Elgin Business already require high costs for daily operations. If an accident, such as water damage, were to happen to your Elgin business, repair costs can quickly add up. To help prevent accidents from happening, it important to maintain your property to keep it functioning. Upkeep for your Elgin business can save you both time and money.

One of the biggest costs a commercial property can face is water damage. This can be devastating to any business and cost thousands of dollars. To help prevent your Elgin business from water damage, follow these tips on ways to maintain the function of your commercial property. These simple tips to prevent water leaks will go a long way to save your business from water damage. Here is how to keep your business safe:

• Assess your property. This means being aware of areas where flooding could pose a problem and make the necessary repairs or amendments as needed. Also pay special attention to basements and install a pump because it will go a long way towards keeping your building dry.
• Insulate exposed pipes. When temperatures drop during the winter, especially at night, exposed pipes are vulnerable to freezing. Most hardware stores carry pipe insulation and doing this can save you in the long run.
• Keep heat at sufficient levels. To prevent pipes from freezing, you’ll want to keep an eye on your business’s thermostat. Make sure it is never set to lower than 50 degrees. This includes weekends and after hours.
• Inspect gutters and drainage. Fallen leaves and other debris in gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage to the exterior walls of a building.
• Clear your roof. Snow and ice accumulation on the rood of your commercial property can weaken roofing materials and create “ice dams”, which prevent melted ice and snow from properly draining.

SERVPRO of Elgin wants your business to be safe too. We can help protect your Elgin property if something were to happen by providing an Emergency Ready Profile. An Emergency Ready Profile is a one-stop-shop for what to do and who to call if an emergency were to happen. This plan is completely free to you and your business. Call us today to get your free Emergency Ready Profile or have any questions: (847) 697-8500.

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The Importance of Fixing Leaks in Your Elgin Home

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

All leaks in your building need to be addressed quickly.

By simply fixing any leaks in your roof, window, or pipes, it will prevent further damage such as mold growth. In general, try to clean and dry areas subjected to water within 48 hours to help prevent further damage. If you believe materials are wet and cannot be completely dried, remove them to be replaced. It’s very important to get them replaced because wet materials can lead to those additional issues previously mentioned.

We recommend replacing wet insultation with mold resistant insulation and consider replacing drywall with boards containing mold and moisture inhibitors. This is a great way to keep your insulation and drywall dry while protecting it from further damage.  Insulation is a very powerful tool because it manages the building’s temperature and moisture. Insulation will support dry, temperature-controlled conditions that inhibit mold growth. Spray polyurethane foam is a great type of insulation for your Elgin home. It seals cracks, holes, and other defects in the building’s structure. This creates a tight seal and will reduce the air and moisture flow.

Establish an ERP for your Elgin Business

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Be prepared.

Businesses big or small face a variety of possible disasters every day. Disasters and resulting business interruption can devastate companies. Did you know only 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster ever reopen? And of those reopened businesses, 75% of them had an emergency plan. This proves having an Emergency Ready Profile can be lifesaving to a business.

No one plans on having a disaster hit their business, but fortunately, you can plan for it with an Emergency Ready Profile. This plan includes what to do, who to call, and what to expect, which are key aspects of timely mitigation. More specifically, it includes details such as shut-off value locations and all primary contacts. Timely mitigation will minimize the effects of damages and allow your business to be restored at an advanced rate with minimal downtime.

            SERVPRO® of Elgin can provide your business with an Emergency Ready Profile for no charge. In addition, the entire plan will be located on an app. The app not only gives you convenient access, its layout will keep all the information in an organized fashion. Call SERVPRO of Elgin today to get your Emergency Ready Profile started: (847)-697-8500

Celebrating the First Responders of Elgin/Northwest Kane County

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Elgin is surrounded by many First Responders who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty to protect our loved ones. Now is our chance to say thank you to the brave men and women in the community. We are honoring their service and sacrifice of America’s First Responders by giving them the chance to win a trip to the SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl.

This is an all-expense paid trip which includes two game tickets, flight tickets, lodging, and transportation. This year the SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl is on Saturday, December 26^th. For the second year in a row, the game will be played at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CT and the matchup will air on ESPN.

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 emergency trained military personnel. We are looking for First Responders who have:

• Saved a life in their career
• Retired after serving many years
• Injured and back at work
• Trained First Responders
• Fallen in the line of duty
• Accomplished something remarkable

SERVPRO® of Elgin wants to give a special thanks to everyone in our Elgin/Northwest Kane County for everything they do. This includes our Police Departments: Elgin, South Elgin, Kane County Sherriff’s, Pingree Grove, and Hampshire. This also includes our Fire Departments: Elgin, Bartlett, Hoffman Estates, Hampshire, and Pingree Grove.

We are proud to be a part of this event and recognize all the incredible First Responders in the Elgin/Northwest Kane County. We are grateful for the courageous individuals who put their lives on the frontlines every day in our community.

Close Before You Doze: Life Saving Habit For Your Elgin Home

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Close Before You Doze is a public fire safety campaign promoted by The UL Firefighter Safety Research. It has been proven during a fire, a closed door can make the difference between 100 degrees and 1,000 degrees. This significant difference has promoted the habit of sleeping with doors closed. It can help add critical time to your escape if a fire were to happen.

This is especially important with the “evolving fire environment”, caused by the increase use of synthetics in modern homes. Forty years ago, the average time needed to escape a burning home was seventeen minutes. Today, the evolving fire environment has caused it to drop to only three minutes. The change in construction materials, furnishings and open layouts, has caused drastic reduction time. These factors allow the fire to spread and become more toxic much quicker.

It is common for people to want to leave the door open whether they have kids or do not think a door can make a significant difference. In fact, only 29% of people always sleep with their door closed. Therefore, it is very important for families to understand the lifesaving difference a closed door will make. A fire needs heat, fuel, and oxygen to grow. So, when a door is closed, it limits the fire’s resources to spread. Furthermore, when a door is closed, not as much carbon monoxide will enter the room. This will keep the oxygen at a breathable level for additional time. The reduction of toxic smoke, improved oxygen levels, and decreased room temperatures will give you more time to escape the fire just by simply closing your door.

Closing the door when you go to sleep is one thing, but if there is an actual fire, it is critical to know the next steps of determining if the door is safe to open. First, you should look for smoke coming through the cracks in the door. If there is smoke, do not open the door. Next, gently touch the door to see if it is hot. If it is hot, do not open the door. Checking the door should be part of your escape plan. Make sure your family has established and rehearsed a plan to exit a burning fire. 

Make an Escape Plan For Your Elgin Home

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

In the past 40 years, escaping from a fire has dropped from 17 minutes to less than 3 minutes due to the evolution of materials in modern homes. This makes it vital to create and practice an emergency escape plan. Home fires are the single most common disaster across the nation, but only 26% of Americans have developed an escape plan for a fire.

When developing your plan, here are a few suggestions:

• Draw a map of each level in your home. Locate all the doors, windows, and identify two ways to exit each room.
• Consider a collapsible escape ladder for your second and third floors. You should only buy them from a recognized testing laboratory.
• Choose an outside meeting place. It should be in front of your home, but also a safe distance away from the fire.
• Some examples include: Neighbor’s house, light post, mailbox, or stop sign.
• If your doors or windows have security bars, make sure the bars have emergency release devices inside so they can be opened immediately.
• Emergency release devices do not compromise your security
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.

Pets are a part of your family too. Half of a million pets are affected by home fires each year. Here are a few tips to creating an escape plan for your animal(s):

• Pets will be afraid. Put your dog on a leash and keep your cat in a carrier. This will secure them with you and prevent them from fleeing.
• Identify your pet’s favorite hiding place ahead of time, as this is where they will most likely be hiding if a fire starts.
• Post “pet rescue stickers” to a front window, in an easy-to-spot location. The decal includes number of pets in your home, so rescuers know who to look for when entering.

When you are not home, contain them near an exit. It will provide a better chance of firefighters finding your animal.

Don’t Fall for These Autumn Fire Risks

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

The leaves are falling, the temperature is dropping, and the holiday season is fast approaching. With Thanksgiving around the corner and Christmas right behind it, there is no shortage of holiday spirit around this time of year. Everyone loves displaying their cornucopia, dried cornstalks and scented candles. These are all classic hallmarks of the fall holidays, but they can also be very dangerous. Decorations are the cause of 800 reported fires each year. Here are a few tips to keep your decorations from going up in flames:

• Use battery powered lights instead of candles
• Do not leave candles unattended or lit while you sleep
• Keep flammable décor like dried flowers, cornstalk, and crepe paper away from open flames
• Verify that all holiday lights and extension cords have been tested by an organization such as Factory Mutual or Underwriters Laboratory

Fall is also filled with many activities. From apple picking to corn mazes, fall has some of the most fun activities, but some of them can also pose a fire risk. For examples, bonfires are perfect for roasting marshmallows or gathering around on a chilly night, but there needs to be cautionary steps when handling them:

• Set your bonfire up at least 25 feet away from structures
• Never use gasoline, kerosene, or any other flammable liquid to start a fire
• Use a match or lighter to ignite tinder
• Keep the fire small and controlled. Never leave it unattended
• Keep a hose, bucket of water, or sand nearby to extinguish the fire once you’re finished
• Read more about Elgin’s rules on open fires here

Beat the Freeze this Winter in Elgin, IL

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets. This happens because water has a unique property where it expands as it freezes. The expansion puts tremendous amount of pressure on whatever is containing it. During the frigid winter months, pipe bursts are the most common cause of property damage. The pipes most at risk are those in unheated interior spaces such as basements, attics, and garages. But even the pipes in your cabinets or exterior walls are still at risk. According to Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, homeowners can see costs surpassing $5,000 in water damage.

Once the weather starts to get colder, you should take measures to keep your pipes warm. Precautionary steps should be taken when the temperature hit around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Those steps include: closing garage doors, opening cabinets under your sink, setting consistent thermostat temperatures, frequently running faucets, and adding insulation to high risk areas.

Unfortunately, if you turn on your faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may well have a frozen pipe. You can try thawing your pipe by turning on the water. As you heat the frozen pipe and the ice plug begins to melt, you want the water to be able to flow through. You can also try to apply heat to the section of the pipe. This includes using an electric heating pad, hair dryer, or space heater. When attempting to thaw your pipes, be careful because if the pipe already burst, the water will come flowing out and flood your home.

If flood water is not handled in a timely manner, it can jeopardize your safety and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County and let our trained professionals handle the situation to make it feel “Like it never even happened.” Whether your home has a flood, or you have a general question, we are here to help: (847) 697.8500.

Commercial Emergency Ready Program

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helping to keep your Sycamore business open!

Did you know that over 50% of businesses that have a major event such as a severe water damage or fire, never recover? The loss of key customers due to delays in getting your operation back up and running could be the difference between success and never opening your doors again.

It is a scary thought.

Help your Sycamore business by having SERVPRO schedule an ERP inspection. Our Emergency Ready Program will help facility managers prepare for the unthinkable. Emergencies are never scheduled and rarely occur when people are in the building. An ERP will identify important facility information, such as water, gas and electrical shut offs and critical areas of importance within the building. An ERP can help minimize damage to your facility as most employees can be made aware of the shut off locations. In addition, a completed ERP aids emergency restoration professionals to concentrate their efforts on the areas that will provide you the flexibility to continue your Sycamore operations with the ability to meet the needs of your clients while the remediation is completed.

Lastly, a web based app is available to provide your business management team the ability to have important information located in one click on your phone! A little planning today can provide a lot of reassurance in the future. 

Contact SERVPRO of DeKalb County 815.758.3900 to schedule an inspection!

The Three C’s to Clean

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solution, and remediation processes over decades. Expertise born out of cleaning up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects the unique experience and capabilities of America’s #1 cleanup and restoration brand. The program is grounded with our unique 3C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certified. But what does that mean? Let’s break down the “Three C’s to Clean”:

Consult: A tailored cleaning program to meet your needs

Not all Elgin businesses are the same, which is why we will assign you a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a custom cleaning program to meet your specific needs. SERVPRO has worked in a wide variety of industries with businesses ranging from startups to global, multinational organizations. That’s why we know to start such a critical cleaning process with a consultation. Your specific program will be developed based on a range of factors: business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touch points, foot traffic, and congestion points. As a result, you’ll know that Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is not just an industry leading standard in clean, you’ll know that the clean you receive is customized to your business needs.

Clean: Proactive & COVID-19 emergency response cleaning program

Based on the specific needs of your business, your location will undergo a thorough, expert deep clean rooted in the pillars of People, Process, and Product.

• People: SERVPRO of Elgin professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform.
• Process: SERVPRO of Elgin professionals are trained to perform proactive or emergency response cleanups that involves facility or structure cleaning and disinfection. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup processes, and disposal of biohazard materials. In the event of a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24-hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.
• Product: Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned has more than 100 exclusive cleaning products to meet any needs including our proprietary cleaning agent, SERVPROXIDE, which is a hospital grade disinfectant that carries the EPA lowest toxicity category and is a National Sanitation Foundation certified for direct food content surface use. All of our products carry the EPA’s registered pathogens claims and meet the standard set by the CDC.

Certify: A commitment to clean for your employees and consumers

At SERVPRO of Elgin, we are going to extend our credibility as a premier biohazard cleaning company in the country to your business. We are here to give assurance to your employees and customers that only SERVPRO can deliver. Once your Elgin business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to our propriety signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates you’ve selected the highest standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

To learn more about our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program, call our office today! We are available 24-hours a day to answer your question or set up your consultation. (847) 697-8500.

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Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned: The Results Are In!

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has conducted a recent study, COVID-19 Cleaning: A Reopening Study, to help assess the attitudes and comfort levels of 1,000 consumers about patronizing businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. We believe you will find this data useful as it helps highlight the needs for our new Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program. Check out of findings below:

• 71% expect businesses to have higher cleanliness standards than respondents do in their own home
• 76% say the way a business addresses cleanliness during COVID-19 is a good indictor of how well that business is run in general
• 73% say they are going to be more attuned to cleanliness once COVID is over
• 68% are constantly thinking about avoiding COVID exposure when they are out in public
• 64% are more likely to choose to shop at a store that has a decal stating the store has been professionally cleaned
• 59% are worried about COVID exposure from touching surfaces that have not been sufficiently cleaned

You can further read our study, COVID-19 Cleaning: A Reopening Study, by clicking here.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that goes beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning that helps ensure the cleanliness of the restaurants, businesses, and public spaces in the communities we all call home. With over 50 years of expertise, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills - always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.

Whether you have an office space, warehouse facility, or restaurant, SERVPRO of Elgin is ready to address your specific needs and help get your Elgin business running again. It is our duty to make Elgin business owners and the community feel at ease and safe as the public reopens their doors. Call SERVPRO of Elgin today at (847) 697-8500 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

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Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned - The Program Your Elgin Business Needs

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

Illinois has successfully reached Phase Three, which means we are starting to see businesses reopen their doors and the community is moving towards a new kind of normal. Research indicates 89% of consumers are concerned to go back to brick and mortar stores. This makes staying safe a top concern for visitors, customers, and employees. The global pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, so SERVPRO of Elgin has launched the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program with the goal to provide businesses a safe and clean environment.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to Elgin businesses and commercial spaces to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your staff, and customers can rest assured you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard.

With the stakes being this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify:

• Consult- Every Elgin business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, number of touchpoints, foot traffic, and congestion points.
• Clean- Based on your specific Elgin business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our SERVPRO of Elgin employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of equipment, tools, and supplies, and dispose hazardous materials. We also guarantee a cleaning within 24-hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible
• Certify- Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communications that you’ve selected a higher standard of cleaning. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location has been cleaned to a higher standard

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation! We’re Here to Help as we fight to bring daily life back to normal in the Elgin community. Please feel free to reach out to our Elgin office (847) 697-8500 for question or request a consultation.

Learn about Elgin

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

For an Elgin business owner, a worst-case disaster scenario involving fire or water damage can seem unthinkable until it suddenly becomes reality. In the aftermath of a disaster, a quick response time by a disaster recovery company such as SERVPRO of Elgin can help minimize property damage.

Business owners need to have a quick and convenient emergency disaster plan that connects them with vendors, necessary contacts, and pertinent information when disaster strikes. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) is a respected industry tool during a disaster event. An ERP is so valuable, that in the midst of the confusion and panic that often surround a disaster, an owner or manager can be provided a sense of calm and clarity in reaching out for expert help.

When building an emergency plan, there are four keys to remember:

• Identify your facility’s greatest threats in order to assess the overall severity of the event. During recovery mode, what are your greatest threats? Is it floods, fires, or tornadoes? Look at your location. Do you have a location in a “tornado alley” or subject to deep freezing temperatures? Try to think outside the box without becoming a doomsday prepper!
• Document all vital information and establish clear communication activities. An ERP needs to contain critical property information that can help speed up response time after a disaster occurs. Consider including any documented prior loss history, identify and label utility shut off valves, and prioritize your key contacts. Prior loss history can provide first responders and restoration vendors with historical information on your facility’s condition. Proper utility identification will allow for quicker response time for emergency shut off, requests and key contact information is vital to starting the recovery process, allowing you to quickly contact key personnel and answer priority questions.
• Practice! There is no textbook event, so expect the unexpected with your Elgin business. You should conduct practice sessions to make sure everyone is clear on the process. Always have clear evacuation routes in your ERP and set distribution chain for your disaster recovery plan amongst key contacts and various location.
• Keep it updated and have all necessary information communicated with your insurance company and emergency restoration vendors. The best way for the recovery to begin is remaining proactive by always keeping your ERP updated. Your SERVPRO of Elgin representative can help keep your ERP up to date. People will come and go, changes will be made to the facility, and utilities change. This should be a dynamic document that changes as your business does. If you do not keep it updated, you will be several steps behind when disaster strike.

With SERVPRO’s ERP, you will be ready for whatever life hands you and your Elgin business. And we are ready to create an ERP for your business at no cost to you! We are the restoration professionals and have earned the trust of many property owners to make it seem “Like it never even happened.” To schedule your FREE ERP or have any questions, call our office: (847) 697-8500.

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Soot Safety After a Fire in Elgin

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Picture this: An accidental fire has started in your beautiful Elgin home and you’re forced to quickly evacuate. Through the chaos and uncertainty, you and your loved ones have safely exited the home and are now a good distance away from the scorching flames. Everyone is now waiting outside as the rescue team fights to extinguish the fire. The firefighters were able to extinguish the flames and saved your home from burning down. They have determined your home is structurally sound enough for you to go back inside, but is your home really safe again?

As if dealing with a house fire was not enough, once the initial danger has passed, you have to deal with soot which has spread throughout your home. Soot is made of tiny carbon particles created by incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. It contains a lot of hazardous materials which give off an ugly sight and foul smell. This can be quite harmful to you and your family and may cause health effects. 

Soot exposure is a serious matter and it’s vital to ensure the soot-affected area has been properly cleaned by professionals. Statistics from a 2017 study, in JAMA, show that particle exposure leads to around 20,000 deaths in the United States each year. In fact, soot related diseases are the culprit of many of them. It has been the main cause of 300,000 asthma attack and two million lost workdays. Don’t let your home fire and its soot particles become one of these statistics.

Although safety risks from fires do not end once the flames are out, there are ways you can still bring your Elgin home back to a safe environment. SERVPRO of Elgin is here to offer the fire restoration services your home needs after a horrendous disaster. We are the trained professionals and know how to properly bring your home back to preloss conditions. Feel free to call us with any questions or schedule your services (847) 697-8500. Also consider reading more about an Emergency Escape Plan to prepare for this kind of disaster.

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Safety Precautions During Your Home’s Visit

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Elgin is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their properties. We have helped a tremendous amount of offices, hospitals, and education facilities, but that does not mean we are not here for our Elgin area residents! During this time, we are still servicing the residents who call Elgin their home. This means we are here for you when your Elgin home experiences a water or fire loss, mold, or damage from a storm event.

At SERVPRO of Elgin, we have been serving our community since 2003 and we are prepared to continue providing our clients with a safe and comfortable experience. To ensure the safety and well-being of our clients and their homes, we implemented additional steps recommended by the CDC into our job processes. This includes all technicians and SERVPRO employees to wear face masks during client visits. We also place an air scrubber into the affected area to promote clean air in the client’s home. Lastly, every employee has their temperature taken each morning to verify they are eligible to perform work for our clients.

SERVPRO of Elgin will continue to answer your phone calls, provide estimates, and help with any restoration services you might need. Restoration is defined as essential as our services are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and operation of the Elgin area residents. Per our mission, we will be “Here to Help” when you need us most and provide a service that keeps your home functioning and your family safe. We will continue to monitor this situation with the goal of keeping you and your family comfortable in your home during these uncertain times.

Whether you need deep cleaning services or water/ fire restoration, we are here to service you on your schedule as we are a 24-hour emergency business. If you or your family has any additional questions about our services or protocol, please do not hesitate to call our office: (847) 697-8500.

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How to Handle the Aftermath of a Sump Pump Failure in Elgin

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

It's that time of year where rain is usually in the forcast, so many Elgin homeowners are ensuring their sump pump is ready for the season. A sump pump is installed underneath the floor of basements which is called a “sump pit”. Once heavy rains hit your home, water starts to flow into the pit through drains or natural soil migration. Once watered is received, the pump will activate and start redirecting the water away from your home. It can be an especially important piece to your home if you invested money into refinishing the basement or have valuable items stored away. But like any piece of equipment, there is a possibility of it failing which can result in flooding, water backups, or water damage to your Elgin basement.

Your beautiful basement has flooded due to a sump pump failure, so now what?

• A flooded basement poses an electrocution hazard. Never enter a wet or flooded basement until the electricity has been shut off from the main panel.
• Locate and turn off the water source. If the source is coming from a ruptured pipe, turn off the main shutoff valve.
• Determine the type of water that has flooded your Elgin home. If it from a pipe, it’s generally safe up to 48 hours, but it is still recommended to wear gloves, boots, and other protective gear. If the water is from a sewage backup, it is classified as biohazard and requires intervention by qualified experts.
• Don’t attempt to pump it out yourself. If deep water is pumped from a flooded basement too quickly, you might cause structural failure. This is possible because there is external pressure exerted by over-saturated soil pressing against the basement walls.
• Call the experts. SERVPRO of Elgin is your water mitigation experts. Our franchise has been servicing basements with water damage since 2003. We can confidently provide you with quality solutions to bring your Elgin home back to preloss conditions.

Luckily, there are a couple of ways you can avoid sump pump failures. The first way to avoid failure is through annual maintenance. For example, clear the sump pump basin of debris which can clog the pump inlet. Be sure to also test the function of float switches. You can do this by pouring five gallons of water into the basin and observing proper activation. Lastly, you can help prevent failure is to upgrade to a battery backup feature. This ensures the sump pump continues to work after your Elgin home experiences a power outage.

Learn more about Elgin.

How to Prepare for an Elgin Storm

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Spring storms can be so volatile.

Everyone enjoys the spring and blooming flower in Elgin, but what people do not like is the variety of harsh weather conditions that come during this season. Your home takes a beating during storms, so it is very important for you to maintain and protect them. Luckily, there are plenty of preventative measures homeowners can take to help reduce damage if and when a severe storm hits. Consider the following tips to keep your home safe this season:

• Trim and maintain your trees. They are a risk to possibly damage your home’s exterior or break a window. When heavy rain hits Kane County, it also gives the possibility for trees to be uprooted from the ground as well.
• Secure your fence. Ensure your fences are fully secured to prevent them being lifted from the ground.
• Secure furniture. Patio furniture is a lovely touch for your backyard. Unfortunately, heavy winds can cause items like chairs and toys to be moved. This poses a possible risk to damage either your furniture or your home’s exterior. You can prevent this by anchoring furniture or moving items inside.
• Check your gutters. Gutters need to remain clear at all times. Clear gutters allow water to flow away from your home. If they are not maintained, it can cause water to overflow and create leaks. There is also a risk for your roof to collapse from the built-up pressure. Set a couple of hours aside to clean gutters and make sure they are properly working.
• Protect your shingles. Make sure your shingles are secure to endure storms in Elgin. If they ever become loose, you can repair each shingle with either roof tar or sealant spray.
• Stock a basic emergency kit. Intense storms in the Kane County area can leave you without electric, water, gas, or sewage for a few hours or even days. Stock your family’s emergency kit without enough food, water, and supplies to carry everyone through at least three days. A basic emergency kit can include: Water, food, and flashlight.
• Know your policy. It’s critical to read and understand your insurance policy. Be sure to frequently examine your property to ensure there are no physical or liability hazards.

If your home has been damaged by a storm, SERVPRO of Elgin can take of any needs you and your family have after a disaster. Don’t feel alone during this stressful time. We can take the stress out of fixing any water or fire damage from storms. We are a 24-hour service and are “Here to Help” whenever you need us. For services and any questions, call: (847)-697-8500.

Learn more about Elgin here.

The Importance of Proper Drainage for Your Elgin Home

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

Getting water away from your home.

From intense wind, heavy snow fall, and rain showers, your Elgin home endures a lot of storms throughout the year. When these storms hit, your gutters are busy at work. Their job is to control the flow of rainwater which protects your roof, walls, foundation, and landscape. Unfortunately, they can also be at risk for causing serious additional problems if they are not maintained.

            If your gutters are not maintained after enduring Elgin’s storms, you can easily be at risk for potential water damage which can cost thousands of dollars. Since the job of gutters is to carry water away from the home’s foundation, it cannot do its function without clear paths. Clogged gutters will eventually overflow onto the foundation of the home. And depending on the amount of water and condition of the foundation, water could seep into your basement or crawl space. Clogged gutters can also pose a weight strain on your roof and fascia. This could cause your roof to collapse and causing damage to the shingles of the roof and exterior of the house.

            A routine cleaning of your gutters can prevent damage to your roof, exterior, foundation, and save you a lot of money in damage repairs. By setting aside a couple of hours, follow these steps to easily clean them yourself and ensure they are functioning properly:

1. Protect your hands and keep them dry by wearing latex gloves
2. Begin cleaning near the downspout
3. Clear large debris such as leaves and twigs by hand
4. Remove and clean downspout strainers
5. Flush out the gutter with your garden hose. Start at the opposite end of the downspout
6. Check the downspout for any lodged debris and remove any remaining debris
7. Use a pressure washer to remove any mildew and dirt from the gutters

If your Elgin home has experienced water damage, be proactive by partnering with SERVPRO of Elgin to dry out the damaged area. We are the water restoration experts and you can count on us to remove and repair water damage. We are a 24-hour service and can respond to the call at any time. To schedule an estimate or if you have any questions, call (847) 697-8500.

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SERVPRO of Elgin Always Responds to the Call

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Trailer and command center.

SERVPRO of Elgin is part of the “STORM Response Team”. This means, when there is a disaster, we are prepared to send our fully trained and experienced crew to help with damages. We have a fully stocked 36-foot trailer with equipment and supplies that our trained technicians are ready to use. Once arrived, we perform work for dozens of homes or large corporate facilities. With hundreds of other SERVPRO franchises responding to STORM, we literally “Paint the Town Green”. Together we restore homes and businesses to preloss conditions.

            Our crew has been all over America to respond to storms and “Paint the Town Green”. Over the years, we have spent 17 months in different states to assist in 7 hurricanes and 12 microbursts. Most recently, SERVPRO of Elgin went to North Carolina after Hurricane Florence. Our crew spent six months completely gutting and drying homes. SERVPRO of Elgin was able to restore around 30 homes during our time in North Carolina. One home in particular took three months due to the severity of the mold contamination. The 2,500 square foot home was required to be completely stripped to the bare bones. The ceiling, flooring, cabinets, walls, and furniture had to be thrown out. With the team’s hard work, SERVPRO of Elgin was able to restore this home with a safe and dry structure.

Not only was SERVPRO of Elgin there to respond to Hurricane Florence, we were on the site after Hurricane Harvey hit Texas as well. For 3 months, our crew was putting in 12-hour days to bring houses back to preloss conditions. This included gutting the house and completely drying it. Their tremendous amount of effort resulted in over 45 houses completed. One of our technicians, Bert, was one of the leaders in restoring the homes. His favorite part about going on STORM was the opportunity to positively changes lives.

Whether a storm hits the Elgin area or across the country in Texas, SERVPRO of Elgin is there to respond to the disaster. With the help of our specialized equipment and number of franchises, we are able to tackle any large storm or flood damage. Read more about SERVPRO of Elgin’s specialized equipment here and how it can save your Elgin home from storm damage. To schedule your storm damage repairs, call our office (847) 697-8500. We are a 24-hour emergency service and will respond to the call whenever you need it most.

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SERVPRO of Elgin Day of Service

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Smiling faces!

As the Elgin area community continues to march through these uncertain times, we find ourselves looking for glimmers of positively and hope to help us keep moving forward. During this time, there has been an outpour of support from our community members supporting one another. We have seen so many individuals donate homemade masks, and drive-by birthdays.

SERVPRO of Elgin was inspired to keep the positively flowing by participating in The Salvation Army Elgin Corps Community Center for their Day of Service. We volunteered to help deliver groceries and home goods to 70 seniors. This could not have been possible without the help other volunteers from Rotary Club of Elgin and Kiwanis Club of Elgin. This was such a heart-warming experience and we were so proud to represent SERVPRO on that day. You can follow our Facebook page to watch the video and keep up to date with our latest Elgin community news.

SERVPRO of Elgin is proud to be an essential business and we are currently open to service the Elgin area community during the stay-at-home order. To us, this situation is similar to a STORM event and we are Here to Help get your Elgin business back to a clean and ready state before your employees return. During the COVID-19 crisis, we have helped several businesses disinfect their facilities to guarantee a safe and healthy work environment. Our work has included college campus, medical facilities, surgical center, assisted living centers, two federal facilities, and numerous industrial buildings in the Elgin area. Overall, we have cleaned and treated over 1.2 million square feet of commercial space. For any questions about our deep cleaning, call our office today: 847-697-8500.

The Right Sump Pump for Your Elgin Home

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Sump pump replacement

Spring is right around the corner. And for Elgin, that means much more rain fall for your homes to endure. Rain can bring beautiful flowers but can also be dangerous if your home is not properly protected. One of the most important ways to protect your home is to install a quality sump pump and maintain its proper function. Sump pumps can make the difference between a wet and dry basement after a storm in Elgin.

Did you know according to American Society of Home Inspectors, more than 60% of American homes suffer from below-ground wetness? This is why it’s so important to have a sump pump for your home’s basement. They are installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawl space. It has a huge job to keep your basement dry and prevent it from flooding. When water flows into the sump pump pit through drains, its job is to pump that groundwater out of the pit and away from your Elgin home. Your basement is able to stay dry because the sump pump is moving the water away the pit.

Although the sump pump has a huge responsibility, most people hardly think about their sump pump until it’s too late. If a sump pump were to fail during a big rain event, your basement could face extensive water damage. To keep your valuables safe from the risk of a flood, it is important to pick the best sump pump system for you. There are four types of sump pumps to consider:

• Primary sump pumps are the most common type found in many residential homes. They even come in two different models. The main difference is the pump’s location. The first one is a submersible pump, which is put under water in your sump pump basin. On the other hand, pedestal pumps are positioned with the pump motor out of the water, above your sump basin. When choosing between the two, pay attention to these factors: Sump pit size, Power needed, length water needs to be pumped, and your budget.
• Battery Backup sump pumps provide you added insurance in the case of a power outage. Not only is this unit used during a blackout, but also can be used if the main pump fails for any reason. New technology has evolved this unit to communicate with users via text or email if there were a failure.
• Combination sump pumps are a combination between a primary pump and a battery backup. This combination provides you protection not only under normal circumstances, but also during a power outage as well. Besides proper flood insurance, this combination can be considered the pinnacle of home flood protection.
• Sewage pumps are not like traditional sump pumps although they could be used for this purpose. Their primary design is to pump sewage waste and effluent from a home to a septic system. This sump has an option to be installed in a septic tank itself or in a separate pump chamber.

Unfortunately, sometimes accidents still happen and basements flood. If your basement has water damage from a flood, don’t handle this alone. Call SERVPRO of Elgin. We are the water mitigation experts who are trained to solve disasters like this. To schedule an appointment or have any questions, call our office: (847) 697-8500.

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Stop the Spread of Germs

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Flu season is in full swing here in Elgin and the spread of germs is on everyone’s mind. During this time, it is important to do our part to help stop the spread of germs. One of the first steps you can take is to keep up with the latest information and news from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). They have emphasized the importance of keeping your surroundings clean and safe which include environments like the workplace, schools, commercial establishments, and homes. Each environment has proactive actions you can take to prevent the spread of germs in your Elgin Community.

Workplace & school safety

• Practice good hygiene. In the workplace, avoid handshakes or use other methods of greeting. You should be keeping your space clean by disinfecting surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, desks, and hand railings.
• Be careful with meetings and travel. If you have the opportunity, use videoconferencing instead of face-to-face meetings. If this is not possible, try to hold your meeting in an open, well-ventilated space. In addition, assess the risk of business travel. Make sure you know how to best prepare for a safe experience at the airport.
• Handle food carefully. This means to limit food sharing and always wash your hands before consuming food. If your workplace has a cafeteria, ensure staff practice strict hygiene
• Stay at home if you are feeling sick

Home Safety

• All Elgin households should encourage everyone to wash their hands upon entering the home and avoid touching their face
• Disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and handrails
• It is suggested for households with sick family members to give them their own room if possible

Commercial Establishments

• Practice good hygiene. To avoid spreading germs in Kane County, it is recommended to use other methods of greeting people rather than a handshake. At business or commercial establishments, promote tap and pay to limit handling of cash
• Avoid crowds. Being in the presence of crowds increases your chances of catching something. To avoid crowds, use online transactions where possible. If you are someone managing these establishment, consider limiting attendance at larger gatherings
• Be cautious when using public transportation. Taxis, buses, and ride shares are all very common uses of transportation and sometimes it’s hard to avoid using them when it’s your main source of getting from point A to B. Always keep hand sanitizer handy with you to use after you’ve arrived at your destination. It is also recommended to keep windows down if possible to increase ventilation

SERVPRO of Elgin is “Here to Help” to stop the spread of germs in these environments by providing our proactive cleaning services. As the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration, we have the CDC and EPA approved resources to help you immediately. Call us today to see how we can help clean your home or business: (847) 697-8500.

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Ice Dams and Water Damage Restoration for Your Elgin Home

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

In the movies, snow covered roofs and icicles paint the perfect picture for a winter scenery. It may look pretty, but unfortunately, the idealistic icicle look can be a sign of ice damming. An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation.

Ice damming is caused by the snow being exposed to inconsistent surface temperatures on your Elgin home’s roof. The primary source of heat is from the inside of your home. Did you know heat from the house travels to the roof surface in three different ways?

• Conduction is heat energy traveling through a solid
• Convection is the heat transfer that rises from the heated area.
• Radiation is also a heat transfer by electromagnetic waves

If you spot an ice dam on your Elgin home, one common way to remove it is by using calcium chloride ice melt. Follow these simple steps to remove the dams and prevent further damage:

1. Using a roof rake, remove snow 3-4 feet from the edge of your roof and being careful not to damage the roof covering
2. Use a nylon stocking to fill with the calcium chloride ice melt
3. Safely place and position the calcium chloride-filled nylon stocking vertically across the ice dam so that it can melt a channel through the ice

 Sometimes accidents still happen, and you have experienced a water loss from your Elgin home’s ice dam. While many believe a water damage from an ice dam can easily get resolved in your Elgin home, often conventional drying methods are not enough.

From the moment your accident occurs, your property, materials, and contents are exposed to water and begin to absorb the moisture. The best solution for your home’s water loss is to hire professional restoration specialists like our team. It is easy for your situation to get out of hand and endure further damage. This is why one of the advantages to SERVPRO of Elgin is that we are a 24-hour emergency service. Our team is ready to service your water damage needs at any time. To learn more about our franchise or schedule a service, call our office (847) 697 8500

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Cozy Up to Fireplace Safety in Elgin

3/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fireplaces can add the ambiance of warmth and tranquility to your Elgin home on a chilly Sunday morning. It is important to remember if you don’t take care of your fireplace, your warmth and tranquility, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. And it can all start with the cleanliness of your chimney.

One of the best ways to prevent a disaster is to keep your fireplace clean. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 30% of heating fires are a result of unclean chimneys and equipment. This is due to a substance called creosote. Creosote is a byproduct of wood combustion that consists mainly of tar. Traces of this substance are found in the smoke that rises from open flames. When smoke is rising to the top of your chimney, it will mix with cold air and water to solidify and stick to the chimney liner. Creosote is not something that fixes itself either. It grows in a self-perpetuating cycle since it accumulates when there is lack of ventilation. This is a huge hazard because creosote is extremely flammable and can cause a destructive, deadly house fire.

            Creosote forms naturally, so there is no way to completely avoid it while using your fireplace. Small amounts of presence of creosote is not the issues, it’s the buildup of this substance that is problematic. There are three stages of creosote buildup and here is how you can appropriately respond to each stage to get the best cleaning. When you decide it’s time to clean your chimney, ensure you use a trained professional.

1. State One- A small amount of creosote is present and has a thin, flaky texture. At this stage, the coating can easily be brushed away by a technician using a specialized brush.
2. Stage Two- A medium size amount of creosote is present which consents of more tar and soot. At this stage, it is a little tougher to remove the substance. To remove it, it would be most beneficial to use a rotary loop tool attached to a drill.
3. Stage Three- A large amount of creosote is present which is very concentrated. It can feel either sticky and oily or hard and shiny depending if the coating is fresh. At this stage, it may actually be more cost-effective to simply replace the chimney liner than try to clean it.

Although there is no way to completely avoid creosote, you can take simple actions to slow the process of its buildup. Consider the following tips:

• Only use dry, seasoned wood in your chimney. This is wood that has been left to dry for at least 6 months
• Never burn artificial logs because they produce more combustion byproduct than regular wood
• Make sure your fire has an adequate amount of air
• Schedule an annual chimney cleaning and inspection

Unfortunately, sometimes disaster still happen despite taking the steps to prevent an accident. If your Elgin Home has experienced a fire due to creosote buildup, don’t feel you’re in this alone. We are the certified fire restoration experts and know how to bring your home back to preloss conditions. You can count on us to immediately assess the damages and begin the remediation and restoration process. For services or any questions, call our office (847) 697 8500.

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We Are the Certified Experts in The Elgin Area

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Elgin has been an IICRC certified firm for the past 16 years. For nearly five decades, The Institution of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification stands at the forefront teaching trailblazing knowledge required to tackle complex jobs and return normalcy from chaotic environments. They provide the most comprehensive and advanced technical information in the industry. They allow companies like SERVPRO of Elgin to advance their education and stay ahead of the competition with several IICRC certification options:

• Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) is a course designed to teach the effective, efficient, and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents. It uses comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment.
• Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT) is a course to teach the art and science of carpet cleaning to professional service providers, as well as others in the related industry. Emphasis is placed the following: practical application, identifying fiber, carpet constructions, style types and finishes, soiling conditions, cleaning science and methodology. This course also covers pre-inspection, basic cleaning chemicals and equipment, and proper cleaning technique.
• Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS) is a course to teach damage inspection and evaluation, workflow management, and process administration. The course also teaches the technical methods of effective and timely drying.
• Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician (FSRT) is a course with a concentration on technical procedure for successfully completing the restoration of a fire and smoke damaged environment. Students will learn how to combine technical procedures with practical approach to managing the job site. These concepts will then teach the students how pricing of the job is created.
• Trauma and Crime Scene Technician (TCST) is a course designed to review the process for inspecting and investigating crime and trauma scenes. This may involve blood and other potentially infectious material. The course will focus on the procedures to follow as well as the precautions that must be taken in such an environment.
• Water Damage Restoration Technician (WRT) is designed to teach restoration personnel that perform remediation work to give them a better concept of water damage, effects, and techniques for drying of structures. This course gives the background to understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold.

If your Elgin home or business is faced with a disaster such as a flood or fire, we are the certified experts who have been properly trained to know exactly what to do. Let SERVPRO of Elgin apply quality solutions to any type of damage you are experiencing. We are the 24-hour emergency service and can quickly respond whenever the service is needed. To contact our office for service or any questions call (847) 697-8500.

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A Real 5-Star Review for SERVPRO of Elgin

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

After a pipe leak causes mold growth, any homeowner can easily become stressed out from the mess their Elgin home has endured. This is especially true when personal belonging like pictures, clothes, or valued items can all become at risk to be ruined. Luckily, you won’t need to go through this alone. When you hire SERVPRO of Elgin, you can count on us to save your home. We will ease the stress and let our professionally trained technicians handle the work for you.

When one of our recent customers had mold growth from a pipe leak, they did not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Elgin. From the first inspection to finishing the rebuild work, we were able to handle every step of the progress. Once the job was completed, our customer was delighted with the quality work we provided and shared their experience on social media. We received a 5-star review which wrote:

“I had a major project needing several different contractors to complete the project. SERVPRO handled the job which included providing the different contractors. All those involved with the project were thorough, efficient, and professional. Each contractor answered any questions and addressed any concerns I had. In addition, SERVPRO's customer service is second to none. I highly recommend SERVPRO to complete any restoration and related services both big and small”

We are proud to have such a happy and satisfied customer because we strive to make it feel “Like it never even happened”. Follow us on Facebook for more customer reviews, restorative information, and Elgin community news!

And for any questions or to schedule your water mitigation service, call our office (847) 697-8500.

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SERVPRO of Elgin Saves Children Reading Center

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Subzero temperatures can cause a serious risk to both homeowners and business owners in Elgin. Risks can range anywhere to slippery sidewalks, ice damming, and broken heating systems. One of the most common problem people face during the winter is a frozen pipe. Frozen pipes are a big issue because they can lead to a pipe burst.  Unfortunately, in January 2019, Gail Borden Public Library experienced what everyone fears during the winter: A pipe burst.

Due to extreme cold, the library was closed to the public for two days, but staff were still checking the building around the clock. Everything seemed quiet during the temporary shut down until a Security Guard was on duty. When the guard was doing a walk-through of the building at 8pm, he was alarmed when he heard the sound of running water inside an outside wall facing the Fox River. He followed the noise and was the confronted by the sight of water literally “shooting out of the wall.”

At midnight, a call to SERVPRO® of Elgin was made and by 1:30am, the owner, George Jackowiec, and the team were on site. They worked relentlessly throughout the night to set up equipment and start extraction.  At 5:30am, drying the damaged area began and it was completed in a week. After the area was job, SERVPRO of Elgin cleaned the carpets and furniture to truly make the staff feel “Like it never even happened.”

Like Gail Borden Public Library, your pipes are at higher risk for bursts during the winter. This is because when water freezes, it expands. You can avoid a pipe burst by preventing your pipes from freezing in your Elgin business. Follow these tips to keep your commercial pipes in working order this winter:

• Insulate exterior piping
• Inspect your property on a regular basis
• Keep thermostat to the same temperature
• Know the locations of your shut-off valves in case a pipe was to break. SERVPRO of Elgin can help you plan for a disaster with an Emergency Ready Profile.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a 24-hour emergency service franchise who will always provide you peace of mind and address your water damage needs with quality solutions. Whether it’s 1pm or 1am, you can always count on SERVPRO of Elgin to take care of the job.

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A Silent Cold Weather Killer in Elgin: Carbon Monoxide

2/12/2020 (Permalink)

Often called the invisible killer, Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas created when fuels such as gasoline, wood, coal, or propane do not burn completely. Every year, more than 400 people in the United States die from accidental non-fire related Carbon Monoxide poisoning. To know these risks are especially important during Elgin’s winter months when your commercial building is using heating equipment more frequently. Common sources of CO around your commercial building include gas space heaters, generators, water heaters, and furnaces.

            Did you know any heat producing item can produce Carbon Monoxide? Therefore, installing a detector can be a lifesaving decision for your Elgin commercial building. it is recommended to place it near any high-risk equipment. This location is most ideal because it will serve as an early warning if any CO is leaking into your commercial building. The more accurate a Carbon Monoxide alarm, the greater your chances of appropriately responding to the problem.

            The science behind why Carbon Monoxide is so dangerous is explained by American Council on Science and Health. “Carbon Monoxide loves to bind to iron. This also means that it loves to bind to hemoglobin, the iron-based protein that is responsible for distributing oxygen throughout the body. The affinity of CO to hemoglobin is so strong that the gas binds 240x more tightly to than does oxygen”. This means Carbon Monoxide does not just compete with oxygen for free hemoglobin, it displaces oxygen which inhibits your body’s ability to distribute oxygen.

            Even if your commercial building has a Carbon Monoxide detector, be aware of Carbon Monoxide Symptoms:

• Chest Pain
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Vomiting

Carbon Monoxide poisoning is very serious and can happen in your Elgin business. Fortunately, this is very preventable for you and your employees. In addition to installing detectors throughout your commercial building, consider the following tips for avoiding a dangerous situation:

• If your company stores vehicles in a warehouse, do not run vehicles inside the building. If you need to warmup the vehicle, pull it out of the warehouse or garage first
• Always have proper ventilation throughout the building
• Schedule regular maintenance for your fuel-burning equipment. Make sure it is kept clean and working properly

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Thank You to Our Elgin Heroes

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

The Super Bowl this past weekend has us reminiscing on our second annual SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl. It was an amazing experience to watch our nominated First Responder, Brent Manley, be honored during the game for his outstanding service. He was nontimed for his heroic effort while on vacation in Panama City Beach, Florida. During his vacation, he saved four people from drowning in the ocean’s riptides. Two of the swimmers required medical attention and one was transported to the hospital. However, all four people made a complete recovery.  

In addition, nearly 30 other outstanding First Responders were recognized at select bowl games across the county on behalf of SERVPRO®. This year’s game was held at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Western Kentucky University and Western Michigan University went head to head for this year’s very exciting game. The intense matchup resulted in a win for Western Kentucky University after it went into overtime. The final score was 23-20.

Although the First Responder Bowl was in Texas, SERVPRO® of Elgin brought the party to our local heroes. To celebrate and honor our First Responders, we brought the tailgate to them. Each tailgate contained Firehouse Sub sandwiches, chips, homemade cookies, and drinks. Our tailgate went out to 9 fire stations in the Elgin and South Elgin area which totaled to 46 First Responders. This experience could not have been possible without the help from Firehouse Subs in South Elgin. Thank you for taking on such a large order for this great cause. And lastly, thank you to all our local First Responders who go above and beyond every day.

Keep up to date with SERVPRO of Elgin’s events, activities, and community involvement by signing up for our newsletter. It is sent out biweekly and containing information exclusive to our SERVPRO of Elgin family. In addition to community news, we provide our readers with restoration information, tips, DIY, and helpful articles. We would love for you to join the SERVPRO of Elgin family. Join the Newsletter here.

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How to Insure your Elgin Business

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

When a commercial property suffers, the business itself suffers. So, if a disaster, like water damage, happens to your Elgin business, it is necessary to have thorough insurance coverage. It is especially important to talk with your agent as not all insurance policies are made the same. In policies, water damage can also be sourced in so many ways and the coverage will vary based on your current commercial policy. It is advised to add water damage coverage or get additional coverage on top of your standard policy. This is recommended because this allows for greater range of a coverage for types of water damage sources. So, when getting quotes, pay attention to what different companies offer.

There are many insurance companies that can provide coverage for your commercial building. Below are examples of possible commercial flood insurance providers and how to contact them today to get started on your policy:

• Allstate Insurance (800) 255-7828
• Farmers Insurance (800) 435-7764
• State Farm Insurance (800) 732-5246
• The Hartford (877) 805-9918

Finding the right insurance is crucial for your business because the most common causes of water damage can be very expensive. One of the biggest causes for water damage in an Elgin commercial property are pipe bursts so being properly covered can save your business. Being properly coverage is very important for your business because commercial water damage can easily cost thousands of dollars. This makes it important for business owners to know that their policies cover such damage.

The main cause of pipe bursts are due to cold weather. When the temperatures drop, the water in the pipe freezes. This leads to it expanding and then rupturing. In addition to the weather, there are other ways a pipe can break or leak:

• Rusty Pipes- Pipes, like anything else in your Elgin home, only last so long. They will eventually start to wear out or rust over. Too much rusting or wear can make your pipes vulnerable to bursts. It is highly recommended to consistency inspect your pipes and replace the ones that have become weak or rusty. Signs of worn out pipes include discolored water, stains on the wall, and lower water pressure.
• Hard water- Hard water refers to water that contains high content of magnesium and calcium. Although they are not harmful to humans, they can harmful to your pipes. These minerals can cause build up and slow your flow of water. Furthermore, these minerals have been known to corrode the pipes and create holes that allow the water to flow out.
• Poor Installation- Pipe leaks can happen if there is a poorly soldered or fitted connection between the pipes.

If your business ends up suffering from water damage, luckily you will be insured and SERVPRO of Elgin will be able to assist you. We are the water damage professionals and have earned the trust of many property owners to make it seem “Like it never even happened”. To schedule your service, call our office: (847) 697-8500.

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Put a Freeze on Winter Fires in Elgin

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know there are several hazards that increase the risk for a fire during the Elgin winters? People don’t think their Elgin home could be at risk for fires during the colder months, but there are many hazards that you need to watch out for in the winter. It’s important to be aware of each risk and how to avoid having a winter fire. The top two causes for fires during the winter are electrical and heating. Let’s going into further detail why these factors pose a fire risk and how you can stay fire-free this winter:

1. Electrical

Electricity is the leading cause of home fires in the United States. Roughly half of all electrical home fire involve electrical distribution or lighting equipment. The top risks include faulty outlets, light fixtures, extension cords, and wiring. Many of these items do not seem dangerous, but according to the U.S. Fire Administration, 43% of the electrical fires were caused by a malfunction. Consider the following tips to avoid electrical fires and stay safe this winter season:

• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets where they can get damaged
• Have qualified electricians add more receptacle outlets in your home to reduce the use of extension cords
• Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture. The maximum wattage is located on the lamp’s sticker
• Keep electrical cords away from children and pets

2. Heating

Heating is the second largest leading cause of United States home fires. December, January, and February are the peak months for heating fires. This is because we are trying to keep our Elgin homes warm during this time of year. Heating equipment includes wall furnaces, space heater, fireplace, and heat lamps. Most often, space heaters are the type of equipment involved in these types of fires. In fact, 86% of deaths from fires caused by heating are due to space heaters. Consider the following tips to avoid heating fires and how to stay safe this winter:

• Keep anything that burns at least 3 feet away from heating equipment
• Never use the oven to heat your home
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and professionally inspected every year
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters

SERVPRO of Elgin is your Elgin area fire restoration cleanup service. We are the certified technicians who can provide you peace of mind if a fire were to happen in your Elgin Home. You can always count on the fast response and the expertise of our SERVPRO of Elgin specialists to make you and your family feel “Like it never even happened.”

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Our Tools Can Help Solve Your Elgin Home’s Water Damage

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Another water damage specialty tool.

Many disasters can take place inside your Elgin home or business when you least expect it. If a disaster were to happen, luckily SERVPRO of Elgin is always ready for whatever happens. When it comes to water damage, our trained technicians have an array of specialized equipment to bring your Elgin home back to preloss conditions. At SERVPRO of Elgin, we use the specialized equipment to help speed up the extraction and drying process. SERVPRO of Elgin is fully equipped with the following tools to restore any home and make it feel “Like it never even happened.”

1. Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in your Elgin home’s carpets and paddings. This tool has sharp probes that penetrate through carpets and padding to determine if water has migrated on the subflooring. If there is moisture, the sensor will provide both blinking and beeping as a signal. The greater the amount of moisture, the faster the lights and beeping will become.
2. Moisture Meters are utilized to measure the actual content or levels of various materials. This tool can be penetrative and non-penetrative depending on what needs to be measured. For example, penetrative meters will be used on carpet while non-penetrative meters will be used on drywall.
3. Extractors are used to provide sufficient water removal in your Elgin home. There are several different types of extractors to use such as Truck-Mounted, Light Wands, or Stationary tools. Factors in each situation such as depth of water and available power will give the technicians a better idea of what to use.
4. Air Movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level and reduce drying time.
5. Dehumidifiers are used to remove water vapor from the air. This reduces the amount of water vapor in the air which lowers the humidity ratio. This is important because lower humidity increases the rate of evaporation of moisture.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a recognized Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) firm for the past 16 years. Every technician for SERVPRO of Elgin is certified and knows how to utilize our unique tools to bring your home back to preloss conditions. We are a 24-hour service and are here to help you with any water damage needs you face in your Elgin home. If you need to schedule service, please contact our office: (847) 697-8500.

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Fire Safety for Your Elgin Commercial Building

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know fires can be the costliest incident for a business? Approximately 10% of small businesses are affected by a fire with an average cost of $35,000 according to The Hartford. The National Fire Protection Association states there are five top reasons for fire in a commercial building: Cooking equipment, Heating equipment, Electrical & lighting equipment, Smoking materials, and Intentional. There are several ways for a fire to start in your Elgin business, but luckily, there are four core elements to help you and your company practice fire safety. Please consider the following to implement into your Elgin business for the safety of you and your employees:

• Fire Alarms are the first defense against the potential risks of fires and are perhaps the most important element for your commercial building’s fire safety system. Your Elgin business should always have routine inspections and maintain for all fire alarms to ensure they continue to properly work.
• Emergency lights and exit signs are designed to come on when the main power supplies are lost. These are very helpful because during a fire, conditions can be chaotic and confusing. Emergency lights and signs will make it more likely that individuals will be able to see well enough to get out of the building.
• Fire extinguishers are required by most fire codes. In general, they should be mounted on walls at distances of less than 75 feet. This means no one should have to travel more than 75 feet to get to a fire extinguisher. When using a fire extinguisher, remember “PASS”. It stands for Pull the pin, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.
• Installing a fire sprinkler will help extinguish fires before the fire department arrives. This is made possible because fire sprinklers are always “on-call”. There is a network of piping filled with water under pressure which is installed behind walls and ceilings. If a fire were to break out, the air temperature rises and once it gets hot enough, that activates the sprinkler system. After installing them, routine inspections should be done to ensure they are working properly.

If a fire were to happen to your commercial building in Elgin, do not worry about tackling fire debris and cleanup on your own. SERVPRO of Elgin is “Here to Help”. For us, the goal is to return each home in Elgin to a clean, odor-free environment as quickly as possible. As the fire restoration experts, we are confident to get the job done every time. To schedule a service and begin the restoration process for your Elgin business, call our office today: (847) 697-8500.

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How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Elgin Commercial Property

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Bringing the "show" to large commercial events.

Commercial buildings for your Elgin Business already require high costs for daily operations. If an accident, such as water damage, were to happen to your Elgin business, repair costs can quickly add up. To help prevent accidents from happening, it important to maintain your property to keep it functioning. Upkeep for your Elgin business can save you both time and money.

One of the biggest costs a commercial property can face is water damage. This can be devastating to any business and cost thousands of dollars. To help prevent your Elgin business from water damage, follow these tips on ways to maintain the function of your commercial property. These simple tips to prevent water leaks will go a long way to save your business from water damage. Here is how to keep your business safe:

• Assess your property. This means being aware of areas where flooding could pose a problem and make the necessary repairs or amendments as needed. Also pay special attention to basements and install a pump because it will go a long way towards keeping your building dry.
• Insulate exposed pipes. When temperatures drop during the winter, especially at night, exposed pipes are vulnerable to freezing. Most hardware stores carry pipe insulation and doing this can save you in the long run.
• Keep heat at sufficient levels. To prevent pipes from freezing, you’ll want to keep an eye on your business’s thermostat. Make sure it is never set to lower than 50 degrees. This includes weekends and after hours.
• Inspect gutters and drainage. Fallen leaves and other debris in gutters and downspouts can lead to water damage to the exterior walls of a building.
• Clear your roof. Snow and ice accumulation on the rood of your commercial property can weaken roofing materials and create “ice dams”, which prevent melted ice and snow from properly draining.

SERVPRO of Elgin wants your business to be safe too. We can help protect your Elgin property if something were to happen by providing an Emergency Ready Profile. An Emergency Ready Profile is a one-stop-shop for what to do and who to call if an emergency were to happen. This plan is completely free to you and your business. Call us today to get your free Emergency Ready Profile or have any questions: (847) 697-8500.

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Keep Moisture Out of Your Elgin Home with Dehumidifiers

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

When the temperatures drop in Elgin, we are all relieved we don’t have to deal with the hot, humid days because keeping our homes cool can be a challenge.  Therefore, so many assume the cooler temperatures mean mold issues disappear in the winter. But did you know, it’s actually a year-round problem because moisture is still in your home’s air? This is possible due to cold air outside prompting condensation to those sensitive areas such as walls, windows, attics, and basements. Other factors such as breathing, showering, and cooking all add to the humidity in your Elgin home too. Having condensation in those areas can lead to problems such as mold.

Moisture in your home is important to monitor because if it is left untreated and mold starts to grow, it will decompose wood and rot household items such as carpeting, furniture, and insulation. Mold can also pose a health risk to your family because some people have allergies to mold and mold spores. It is extremely important to be aware of the possible health effects from mold and your family’s allergies to it. Learn more about the different types of mold and its possible health risks here.

Fortunately, there are several effective ways to keep your home dry and prevent mold from infiltrating it. You can start by purchasing a dehumidifier for your home. Dehumidifiers can greatly benefit families during the winter. They can help keep humidity levels below the 50% RH threshold throughout the day. Ideally, these RH levels can be anywhere from 30%-50%. Not only will dehumidifiers remove excessive moisture in the air, it also creates an overall more comfortable atmosphere in your home. Lastly, Dehumidifiers can improve your air quality which could result in improving your home’s scent and provide relief to some allergies.

Dehumidifiers come in a wide variety of models, so which one is right for you? When choosing the best dehumidifier for your Elgin home, consider the following factors:

• The square footage of the desired space to dehumidify
• The temperature of the environment
• Levels of dampness in space

If your home has experienced water damage from excessive moisture, we are the Elgin area experts. Our team is available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide quality emergency response services throughout the Elgin area. Our certified Technicians will help address your water problems with quality solutions. To make water damage look “Like it never even happened,” call SERVPRO® of Elgin today: 847-697-8500.

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The Importance of Fixing Leaks in Your Elgin Home

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

By simply fixing any leaks in your roof, window, or pipes, it will prevent further damage such as mold growth. In general, try to clean and dry areas subjected to water within 48 hours to help prevent further damage. If you believe materials are wet and cannot be completely dried, remove them to be replaced. It’s very important to get them replaced because wet materials can lead to those additional issues previously mentioned.

We recommend replacing wet insultation with mold resistant insulation and consider replacing drywall with boards containing mold and moisture inhibitors. This is a great way to keep your insulation and drywall dry while protecting it from further damage.  Insulation is a very powerful tool because it manages the building’s temperature and moisture. Insulation will support dry, temperature-controlled conditions that inhibit mold growth. Spray polyurethane foam is a great type of insulation for your Elgin home. It seals cracks, holes, and other defects in the building’s structure. This creates a tight seal and will reduce the air and moisture flow.

Establish An ERP For Your Elgin Business

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

ERPs provide the information to allow emergency responses to respond quickly.

Businesses big or small face a variety of possible disasters every day. Disasters and resulting business interruption can devastate companies. Did you know only 50% of businesses that close due to a disaster ever reopen? And of those reopened businesses, 75% of them had an emergency plan. This proves having an Emergency Ready Profile can be lifesaving to a business.

No one plans on having a disaster hit their business, but fortunately, you can plan for it with an Emergency Ready Profile. This plan includes what to do, who to call, and what to expect, which are key aspects of timely mitigation. More specifically, it includes details such as shut-off value locations and all primary contacts. Timely mitigation will minimize the effects of damages and allow your business to be restored at an advanced rate with minimal downtime.

            SERVPRO® of Elgin can provide your business with an Emergency Ready Profile for no charge. In addition, the entire plan will be located on an app. The app not only gives you convenient access, its layout will keep all the information in an organized fashion. Call SERVPRO of Elgin today to get your Emergency Ready Profile started: (857)-697-8500

1. Celebrating the First Responders of Elgin/Northwest Kane County

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Elgin is surrounded by many First Responders who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty to protect our loved ones. Now is our chance to say thank you to the brave men and women in the community. We are honoring their service and sacrifice of America’s First Responders by giving them the chance to win a trip to the SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl.

This is an all-expense paid trip which includes two game tickets, flight tickets, lodging, and transportation. This year the SERVPRO® First Responder Bowl is on Monday, December 30^th. For the first time ever, the game will be played at SMU’s Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Kickoff is set for 11:30 a.m. CT and the matchup will air on ESPN.

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 emergency trained military personnel. We are looking for First Responders who have:

• Saved a life in their career
• Retired after serving many years
• Injured and back at work
• Trained First Responders
• Fallen in the line of duty
• Accomplished something remarkable

SERVPRO® of Elgin wants to give a special thanks to everyone in our Elgin/Northwest Kane County for everything they do. This includes our Police Departments: Elgin, South Elgin, Kane County Sherriff’s, Pingree Grove, and Hampshire. This also includes our Fire Departments: Elgin, Bartlett, Hoffman Estates, Hampshire, and Pingree Grove.

We are proud to be a part of this event and recognize all the incredible First Responders in the Elgin/Northwest Kane County. We are grateful for the courageous individuals who put their lives on the frontlines every day in our community.

Close Before You Doze: Life Saving Habit For Your Elgin Home

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Close Before You Doze is a public fire safety campaign promoted by The UL Firefighter Safety Research. It has been proven during a fire, a closed door can make the difference between 100 degrees and 1,000 degrees. This significant difference has promoted the habit of sleeping with doors closed. It can help add critical time to your escape if a fire were to happen.

This is especially important with the “evolving fire environment”, caused by the increase use of synthetics in modern homes. Forty years ago, the average time needed to escape a burning home was seventeen minutes. Today, the evolving fire environment has caused it to drop to only three minutes. The change in construction materials, furnishings and open layouts, has caused drastic reduction time. These factors allow the fire to spread and become more toxic much quicker.

It is common for people to want to leave the door open whether they have kids or do not think a door can make a significant difference. In fact, only 29% of people always sleep with their door closed. Therefore, it is very important for families to understand the lifesaving difference a closed door will make. A fire needs heat, fuel, and oxygen to grow. So, when a door is closed, it limits the fire’s resources to spread. Furthermore, when a door is closed, not as much carbon monoxide will enter the room. This will keep the oxygen at a breathable level for additional time. The reduction of toxic smoke, improved oxygen levels, and decreased room temperatures will give you more time to escape the fire just by simply closing your door.

Closing the door when you go to sleep is one thing, but if there is an actual fire, it is critical to know the next steps of determining if the door is safe to open. First, you should look for smoke coming through the cracks in the door. If there is smoke, do not open the door. Next, gently touch the door to see if it is hot. If it is hot, do not open the door. Checking the door should be part of your escape plan. Make sure your family has established and rehearsed a plan to exit a burning fire. 

Make an Escape Plan For Your Elgin Home

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

In the past 40 years, escaping from a fire has dropped from 17 minutes to less than 3 minutes due to the evolution of materials in modern homes. This makes it vital to create and practice an emergency escape plan. Home fires are the single most common disaster across the nation, but only 26% of Americans have developed an escape plan for a fire.

When developing your plan, here are a few suggestions:

• Draw a map of each level in your home. Locate all the doors, windows, and identify two ways to exit each room.
• Consider a collapsible escape ladder for your second and third floors. You should only buy them from a recognized testing laboratory.
• Choose an outside meeting place. It should be in front of your home, but also a safe distance away from the fire.
  • Some examples include: Neighbor’s house, light post, mailbox, or stop sign.
• If your doors or windows have security bars, make sure the bars have emergency release devices inside so they can be opened immediately.
  • Emergency release devices do not compromise your security
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them.

Pets are a part of your family too. Half of a million pets are affected by home fires each year. Here are a few tips to creating an escape plan for your animal(s):

• Pets will be afraid. Put your dog on a leash and keep your cat in a carrier. This will secure them with you and prevent them from fleeing.
• Identify your pet’s favorite hiding place ahead of time, as this is where they will most likely be hiding if a fire starts.
• Post “pet rescue stickers” to a front window, in an easy-to-spot location. The decal includes number of pets in your home, so rescuers know who to look for when entering.

When you are not home, contain them near an exit. It will provide a better chance of firefighters finding your animal.

Don’t Fall for These Autumn Fire Risks

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

The leaves are falling, the temperature is dropping, and the holiday season is fast approaching. With Thanksgiving around the corner and Christmas right behind it, there is no shortage of holiday spirit around this time of year. Everyone loves displaying their cornucopia, dried cornstalks and scented candles. These are all classic hallmarks of the fall holidays, but they can also be very dangerous. Decorations are the cause of 800 reported fires each year. Here are a few tips to keep your decorations from going up in flames:

• Use battery powered lights instead of candles
• Do not leave candles unattended or lit while you sleep
• Keep flammable décor like dried flowers, cornstalk, and crepe paper away from open flames
• Verify that all holiday lights and extension cords have been tested by an organization such as Factory Mutual or Underwriters Laboratory

Fall is also filled with many activities. From apple picking to corn mazes, fall has some of the most fun activities, but some of them can also pose a fire risk. For examples, bonfires are perfect for roasting marshmallows or gathering around on a chilly night, but there needs to be cautionary steps when handling them:

• Set your bonfire up at least 25 feet away from structures
• Never use gasoline, kerosene, or any other flammable liquid to start a fire
  • Use a match or lighter to ignite tinder
• Keep the fire small and controlled. Never leave it unattended
• Keep a hose, bucket of water, or sand nearby to extinguish the fire once you’re finished
• Read more about Elgin’s rules on open fires here

Beat the Freeze This Winter in Elgin

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

When temperatures plummet, the risk of your pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets. This happens because water has a unique property where it expands as it freezes. The expansion puts tremendous amount of pressure on whatever is containing it. During the frigid winter months, pipe bursts are the most common cause of property damage. The pipes most at risk are those in unheated interior spaces such as basements, attics, and garages. But even the pipes in your cabinets or exterior walls are still at risk. According to Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, homeowners can see costs surpassing $5,000 in water damage.

Once the weather starts to get colder, you should take measures to keep your pipes warm. Precautionary steps should be taken when the temperature hit around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Those steps include: closing garage doors, opening cabinets under your sink, setting consistent thermostat temperatures, frequently running faucets, and adding insulation to high risk areas.

Unfortunately, if you turn on your faucet and only a trickle comes out, you may well have a frozen pipe. You can try thawing your pipe by turning on the water. As you heat the frozen pipe and the ice plug begins to melt, you want the water to be able to flow through. You can also try to apply heat to the section of the pipe. This includes using an electric heating pad, hair dryer, or space heater. When attempting to thaw your pipes, be careful because if the pipe already burst, the water will come flowing out and flood your home.

If flood water is not handled in a timely manner, it can jeopardize your safety and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County and let our trained professionals handle the situation to make it feel “Like it never even happened.” Whether your home has a flood, or you have a general question, we are here to help: (847) 697.8500.

Who responds when the first responders need help?

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Broken sprinkler head at local fire department station house

What happens when the people that are charged with protecting our communities has a water loss? Who responds when the "first responders" must deal with a sprinkler head damage? They can't wait, they need to get their building stabilized because any minute from now, they will be called out to save yours!!

The good men and women of our fire and police departments appreciate what fast response means. They know that the sooner you can get onsite and assess the situation, the less damage will occur and the faster they can get back to normal.

Some of our finest have been in this situation and they called on the experts at SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County. Accidents occur but knowing how to properly deal with them is critical

Roof lifted by strong winds causes water damage inside

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Interior damage due to a micro burst lifting a roof off of a building

Flooding and water damage events at any Hampshire or Elgin commercial properties can be complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large-scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility to its preloss state.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when an emergency arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water or fire damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Don't forget to check the attic

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Checking the attic for soot damage can provide a better overall cleaning job

An often-overlooked item in cleaning up after a home or business fire is checking the attic and the condition of the insulation. Heat rises and when things are heated, they can get pressurized. Even a small kitchen fire can produce temperatures of over 1,000 degrees. The heat and pressurization can carry soot particles into the attic and the insulation can get covered with a fine layer of soot. Because the soot may be consistently deposited throughout the attic, it might not stand out.

A quick check of the roof sheeting and joists with a dry clean sponge can show if soot is a problem in the attic space. If it is, insulation should be evaluated for removal and replacement. Once the insulation is removed, the attic space should be cleaned with dry clean sponges and consideration made to encapsulate all raw wood surfaces to lock in those particles, so they do not cause soot smells to be released in those hot summer months.

We cleaned the kitchen after the fire but it still has a smoke smell

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Be sure to thoroughly deodorize to ensure a complete fire cleanup

Smoke particles are very small. They are so small that if you were able to stack smoke particles together, you would need 30-100 to equal the thickness of a human hair; that is small. 

That means that soot can easily travel to other areas of the house and can get trapped inside the pores of other materials (cabinets, etc.) that were heated up during the fire. The problem is that those odors can be released from the pores of those items when the item is heated up again, say in the summer. 

We help to get rid of those soot particles by warming up the home again as part of the cleaning process. We will warm up the house to say 85-90 degrees and then we deodorize with either ozone or hydroxyls.

It's a small thing, but we think it provides a better overall cleaning job and makes our customers happier, even if they don't know we did it!!

Doing things right!!

Local storms can cause incredible damage!

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Storm damage can affect businesses and homes in just a few minutes

There are dozens of severe storm events across the country every year. Many of those can cause hundreds of millions of dollars in damages to homes, businesses and infrastructure. 

Realizing that your home or business has sustained damage due to a storm is hard to deal with. What do you do? Who do you call?

There is one bit of advice that we can give you that can save you thousands of dollars; Call SERVPRO fast!! Water damage doesn't just sit in your home and business. It spreads, everywhere. It wicks up the walls, into adjacent rooms. It even evaporates into the air and can cause "secondary damage" to areas of your building you are not even aware of. 

Even after you have sucked up the visible water off the floor and out of the carpet, water is still causing more damage every minute. 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County has the training, experience and equipment to get your building stabilized fast and minimize the damage that water causes.

Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County at 847.697.8500!!

When storms hit your town, SERVPRO is ready to help!

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Spring storms can bring lots

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to use specialized equipment to restore your property to it's pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A quick response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the overall restoration cost. Whether it is your basement flood, sump pump backup and/or water coming in your doors or windows, we can help.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Elgin area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 847-697-8500

Do you have the insurance coverage you need?

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Water, carpet, laminate floor and content!

Flooding remains the costliest natural hazard disaster in the United States. But did you know that flood losses are not typically covered under renter and homeowner insurance policies? Additionally, backup coverage in homes is typically limited. Also, how the water entered the house plays a big role in whether you have coverage and whether you have limited coverage or full coverage.

Do you have the coverage necessary to get yourself back "Like it never even happened"? If it is a sump pump backup the limited coverage you have may only be enough to get the house dry, but you may not have enough to put carpet and drywall back.

Contact your agent and discuss your coverage BEFORE the event occurs. Believe me, you WILL be very happy you did!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, helping you through the entire process!!

Can we save hardwood flooring?

5/20/2019 (Permalink)

Vacuum panel drying systems

In today's modern home, it is not uncommon to have beautiful hardwood floors in many areas of the home; especially kitchens. When these floors get wet and are not dried properly, it is a major expense to remove and replace them. This work is also a major disruption to the family. 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County employs the latest technology that allows them to save many floors that would otherwise might be torn out. The "Trick" is to get our specially trained crews out to the job site quickly. 

By using special vacuum drying panels, desiccant drying tools and with professional daily monitoring, we can ensure that the flooring has been dried properly. If addressed quickly, some floors will not even require refinishing!

Call 847.697.8500 to reach the hardwood floor drying specialists! Only we can make it "Like it never even happened."!

Is that mold inside my walls?!?

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

Interior mold within the walls

One of the problems with water damage is that if it is not corrected quickly and properly, secondary damage can occur. Secondary damage is when items that are within the affected area of a water damage, but they are not in direct contact with the water. This can occur when the humidity in the area is not reduced to an appropriate level. High humidity in a room can cause otherwise dry content to absorb that moisture (humidity) and can cause mold.

As can be seen in the picture, this drywall was within a water damage environment for quite a while. There was no exterior visible mold that could be seen. Based on the overall conditions within the affected area, we knew that mold was likely and we took steps to investigate.

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County making it "Like it never even happened."

Are you kidding me?!?

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in the interior of your car

Having a water damage in your house and the possibility of mold due to that is an upsetting thought. What about the possibility of mold within our vehicles?

The cars that are built and sold today are quality checked and inspected and interior problems are rare. 

However, how would you know if you had a problem? Well frankly, it is tough to determine. Our local climate is very wet in spring, we can have heavy rains in summer and fall, and winters are cold and we carry snow and ice into our cars from our shoes and boots.

The same rules apply to cars as with our homes, "you don't have a mold problem, you have a moisture problem."

Be aware of your cars environment. Do a quick inspection, especially after heavy rains. Check for signs of wetness on carpeting, your dash, seats or headliner. Listen for signs of water accumulation in the duct work, (usually noticeable when you turn and you hear sloshing.) Finally, do you smell a musty odor in the car.

Responding to the call!!

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Storm trailer loaded and ready to go!!

What is one of the greatest things about working with SERVPRO during storms? BECAUSE WE ARE HUGE AND CAN SEND HUNDREDS OF CREWS!!!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County is a part of the "Storm Response Teams." We keep a 36-foot trailer fully stocked with equipment and supplies so we can quickly respond to emergency situations. We will bring that trailer along with a couple of box trucks and vans full of our fully trained and experienced crew.

We bring enough equipment, crew and supplies that we can arrive onsite and start performing work for either dozens of homes or a large corporate facility immediately when we roll into town.

When you combine our formidable response with hundreds of other SERVPROs from around the nation, we literally "Paint the town Green."

No other restoration company can respond to storm situations like SERVPRO; no one!! Residential, commercial and industrial all taken care of by the Men and Women of SERVPRO!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County; painting our town Green!!

Securing your home after the storm passes

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Tarping up the three story side of their house when the siding blew off!!

Storms can be very scary with the wind and rain, the lightning and thunder. You are watching the weather channel and hoping that the real bad parts of the storm pass you by.

Once the storm is over, it is a good idea to do an inspection of the exterior of your home and your roof, if you can see it. 

Strong winds and rain can cause otherwise tight siding and roofing to be damaged and cause water to get into your home. If you do identify areas of outside damage either on the roof or siding, call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County to secure your home.

Give the customer service technician as much information as possible such as what is damaged, is there material missing, is there hanging or sharp materials in the damaged area. 

We will bring our emergency services trailer that contains, tools, ladders, air compressor, generator, extension cords, lights, wood, tarps, etc. Hopefully everything needed to fully secure your home. 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, making your home safe and secure!! 847.697.8500.

Hardwood floors can be saved

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Proper equipment can restore hardwood floors

In today's modern home, it is not uncommon to have beautiful hardwood floors in many areas of the home; especially kitchens. When these floors get wet and are not dried properly, it is a major expense to remove and replace them. This work is also a major disruption to the family. 

SERVPRO of Elgin employs the latest technology that allows them to save many floors that would otherwise might be torn out. The "Trick" is to get our specially trained crews out to the job site quickly. 

By using special vacuum drying panels, desiccant drying tools and with professional daily monitoring, we can ensure that the flooring has been dried properly. If addressed quickly, some floors will not even require refinishing!

Call 847.697.8500 to reach the hardwood floor drying specialists at SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County. Only SERVPRO can make it "Like it never even happened."

You can't just "wing it".

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Water everywhere!!

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are several reasons why your Elgin basement could flood, including: 

• Non-working sump pump
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 847.697.8500

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of thousands of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill the Insurance Directly – One Less Thing for You to Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready to Help 847.697.8500

Keeping your business operating

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Keeping the drying going behind the scenes.

Flooding and water damage events at Elgin/Northwest Kane County commercial properties can be complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility to its preloss state.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water or fire damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, 847.697.8500 for all your commercial property needs!

Soot cleanup is challenging

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Fire in a 75 year old church

Smoke and soot is extremely invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures are then based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 847.697.8500

How to deal with sewer backups

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Sewage cleanup in commercial pump room

You are the facilities manager for a large commercial building. you get a call from one of your maintenance staff that your pump room has standing water. What do you need to do?

The first consideration is determining the source of the water. The cleanup requirements change dramatically depending on the source of water. If it was a small pipe break, maybe all you need to do is shop vac up the water and place a fan or two. 

However, if you suspect that the water is potentially sewer water, you will need to take precautions to ensure that you don't make the situation worse.

Making sure your cleanup crew is using proper PPE (personal protective equipment is very important. Even if the water appears "pretty clear" if it came back into your building through a plumbing "p-trap" you MUST treat it as sewage. The waste water needs to be put back into a sanitary sewer line and the affected area needs to be cleaned properly.

Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County when you need to get things done right!

Cleaning the formerly uncleanable

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Esporta cleaning of leather purses

Fires in homes cause a lot of damage, that is not surprising. However, some content items are considered unsalvageable because there was never a cost effective means to cleaning them. As a result, many items are thrown away and are cluttering our landfills. That is not the case anymore!

By utilizing our newest cleaning system, Esporta, we are able to clean items that even professional clothing cleaners would not attempt. Esporta is a revolutionary cleaning system that uses Earth friendly cleaning products and a patented cleaning process that allows leather, as well as thousands or other items, to be cleaned quickly and thoroughly. 

Imagine, cleaning leather goods, sports equipment and pads, helmets, as well as cloth dolls, comforters, all in a cost effective, highly thorough cleaning system.

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, helping to make it "Like it never even happened."

Knowing what burned in the fire, helps determine the cleaning!

4/29/2019 (Permalink)

Extensive soot damage in a fire

Smoke and soot are extremely invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allow us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, the cleaning procedures are then based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage property.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 847-697-8500

Flooded basements and how we can help!!

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy water extraction in flooded basement

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Elgin basement could flood, including: 

• Non-working sump pump
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 847.697.8500

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of thousands of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready to Help 847.697.8500

How to avoid a spring time disaster

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

The pipe break occurred in winter but can ruin your spring!

Soon the weather will start warming, and believe it or not, it will be so warm you will want to wash the car or do some other outside cleaning. If you are like us, you can't wait!!

However, if you realize that you left a hose connected to an outside faucet, you might have inadvertently caused your pipe inside the house to freeze and break. The actual term for the faucet is silcock. What makes the silcock different is that the actual shut off valve is inside the house, 16-20" where it is hopefully warm. However, even though the valve is inside the house at a safe distance to keep it warm, leaving a hose attached can cause ice to form and cause the pipe to break between the outside faucet and the silcock valve. (Keep in mind that that entire pipe is still inside the house!!)

This is good in that although the silcock pipe is ruptured, no water has been lost because the valve is shut off. HOWEVER, once you open the valve by turning on the outside faucet, water will start pouring into your home!!

Play it safe, and if you left a hose attached all winter, before you turn on the water, go inside and look for the silcock and inspect it for damage. You can do this with a flashlight, and you can also run your hands along the pipe and feel for bumps and breaks. If you find any, call your plumber and ask them to replace it right away! 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, 847.697.8500. Here to help!!

What to do and not do after a fire

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

It might be best to wait for the professionals at SERVPRO!

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house? It might be best to have a professional evaluate first. 
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform. Cleaning up after a fire loss can be very specialized work
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

When your home and belongings have been damaged due to fire and smoke, call the experienced and knowledgeable staff at SERVPRO of Elgin, 847.697.8500, to make it "Like it never even happened."

What to do if you think you have mold?

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold hidden behind base trim and door casing

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 847-697-8500

SERVPRO's Commercial ERP program

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helping you to keep the doors open

Did you know that over 50% of businesses that have a major event such as a severe water damage or fire, never recover?! The loss of key customers due to delays in getting your operation back up and running could be the difference between success and never opening your doors again.

It is a scary thought.

Help your company by having SERVPRO schedule an ERP inspection. Our Emergency Ready Program will help facility managers prepare for the unthinkable. We start by identifying important facility information, such as water shut offs, and critical areas of importance within the building. By doing this we can allow our emergency restoration professionals to concentrate their efforts on the areas that will provide you the flexibility to stay in operation and maintaining your important clients needs until the entire cleanup is completed.

A little planning today can provide a lot of reassurance in the future.

Contact SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County at 847.697.8500 to schedule an inspection!

SERVPRO: Doing the difficult jobs and doing them right!

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Be sure to have your SERVPRO professionals handle these jobs!

What is a Bio-Hazard? Well the dictionary definition is "a biological substance that's dangerous to people or the environment."

It often comes to our attention as a result of a serious injury or death. Cleaning up a Bio-Hazard has many aspects to it. Our primary concern is to make sure our employees and others in the vicinity do not become injured as a result of working in that environment. Blood and any associated blood borne pathogens need to be properly handled due to their inherent risk to humans.

Proper personal protective equipment is just the start. Anyone working with bio-hazards needs proper training in procedures, respirator protection, health and safety and hazard communications. Items such as needles, broken glass or other sharp objects need to be handled very carefully and preferably with a tool that limits our need to contact it.

Materials that have come in direct contact with blood need to be properly disposed with a licensed waste hauler. This may include PPE, clothing, items used to do the cleanup such as paper products and rags, and any cloth material that needed to be removed from the affected site such as cushions, carpeting, bedding, etc.

This work is not particularly difficult but being able to do the work properly takes a lot of training, planning, careful following of procedures.

Damage can occur in new construction too!

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Even a small amount of moisture can cause big issues!!

Even new building construction can have a mold problem. This is a picture of the wall in a under construction municipal building. Although mold in not something you want to see in your building, if you take this as an opportunity to investigate what the water/moisture problem is, you can eliminate the moisture issue and remove the probability of mold again in the future. A good thing to remember is "you don't have a mold problem, you have a moisture problem." Address the water, and you will eliminate mold in the future. In this situation, we were able to properly remove the moldy material and keep the construction project on schedule!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, here to help! 847.697.8500.

So you "thought you dodged a bullet"

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

A small amount of water can cause big issues!!

This situation happens more often than it should. A small water leak is found. The plumber is called, and the water leak is fixed. But the wet material is totally ignored! Everyone thinks they "dodged a bullet", but did they? Mold will not start that day, but every day building materials are left wet, the possibility for mold to grow increases. Maybe you will smell a small musty smell that slowly goes away. However, chances are if this area gets wet in the future, even years in the future, mold will start growing again, and you will not know why.

Getting everything dry may have originally taken a couple of day with a dehumidifier and some air movers. However, removal of mold affected materials will take longer, cost more and will require reconstruction as well.

Be sure to call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County to ensure everything is dry and stop mold in its tracks!!! 847.697.8500.

When river waters rise!

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Bridge over troubled waters!!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A quick response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the overall restoration cost. Whether it is your basement flood, sump pump backup and/or water coming in your doors or windows, we can help.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Elgin/NW Kane County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 847-697-8500

Commercial properties - Unique Challenges

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Medical facility with recent broken pipe

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water or fire damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Smoke is a problem all on its own!!

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

Different types of smoke need different cleaning methods

Smoke and soot are extremely invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Elgin/NW Kane County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures are then based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 847-697-8500

Securing your property after the storm

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

Board up and tarping trailer.

Storms can be very scary with the wind and rain, the lightning and thunder. You are watching the weather channel and hoping that the real bad parts of the storm pass you by.

Once the storm is over, it is a good idea to do an inspection of the exterior of your home and your roof, if you can see it. 

Strong winds and rain can cause otherwise tight siding and roofing to be damaged and cause water to get into your home. If you do identify areas of outside damage either on the roof or siding, call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County to secure your home.

Give the customer service technician as much information as possible such as what is damaged, is there material missing, is there hanging or sharp materials in the damaged area. 

We will bring our emergency services trailer that contains, tools, ladders, air compressor, generator, extension cords, lights, wood, tarps, etc. Hopefully everything needed to fully secure your home. 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, making your home safe and secure!! 847.697.8500.

Responding to out of state storms

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

Storm response trailer

What is one of the greatest things about working with SERVPRO during storms? BECAUSE WE ARE HUGE AND CAN SEND HUNDREDS OF CREWS!!!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County is a part of the "Storm Response Teams." We keep a 36 foot trailer fully stocked with equipment and supplies so we can quickly respond to emergency situations. We will bring that trailer along with a couple of box trucks and vans full of our fully trained and experienced crew.

We bring enough equipment, crew and supplies that we can arrive onsite and start performing work for either dozens of homes or a large corporate facility immediately when we role into town.

When you combine our formidable response with hundreds of other SERVPROs from around the nation, we literally "Paint the town Green."

No other restoration company can respond to storm situations like SERVPRO; no one!! Residential, commercial and industrial all taken care of by the Men and Women of SERVPRO!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County; painting our town Green!!

What can you do to restore all the content in your home?

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Fire affected content

When SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County is asked to respond to a house fire, we work very hard to ensure the homeowner fully understands the entire process. We can help explain our processes and let them know how long it will take to get their house cleaned and rebuilt and get them settled back to normal. Calling us at 847.697.8500 brings you the knowledge and caring of a professional team of restoration experts.

But what about your content? Content is basically everything in your house that would fall out if you were able to pick up your house and turn it upside down. Clothing, furniture, appliances, electronics, shoes, bedding, toys, etc. We are a FULL SERVICE content restoration company and we do EVERYTHING in-house. Textiles, leathers, furniture, electronics. One company who can handle all of your cleaning and restoration needs; including reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County is a Contents restoration Specialist with years of experience in properly restoring your families' content. We thoroughly inspect each item to determine the damage. If it is determined to be salvageable, we will identify the type of cleaning and deodorization method to utilize. Once each item is restored, we ask the homeowner to come to our state of the art warehouse and inspect their content themselves. We leave nothing to chance!!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County should be your "go-to"company for all of your fire and smoke cleanup needs! Call us at 847.697.8500 to learn more about what we can do for you!!

Saving hardwood floors

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Hardwood floor drying system.

In today's modern home, it is not uncommon to have beautiful hardwood floors in many areas of the home; especially kitchens. When these floors get wet and are not dried properly, it is a major expense to remove and replace them. This work is also a major disruption to the family. 

SERVPRO of Elgin employs the latest technology that allows them to save many floors that would otherwise might be torn out. The "Trick" is to get our specially trained crews out to the job site quickly. 

By using special vacuum drying panels, desiccant drying tools and with professional daily monitoring, we can ensure that the flooring has been dried properly. If addressed quickly, some floors will not even require refinishing!

Call 847.697.8500 to reach the hardwood floor drying specialists at SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County. Only SERVPRO can make it "Like it never even happened."

Basement water damage in Elgin

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded basement, carpet and pad affected.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Elgin basement could flood, including: 

• Non-working sump pump
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 847.697.8500

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of thousands of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 847.697.8500

Emergency Ready Profile

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profile

Disasters and emergencies always strike without warning. By planning ahead, that speaks trust to your clients and your employees that you mean business and you plan to stay in business!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County can assist you in preparing an Emergency Ready Profile that allows you to identify critical information that is needed in that emergency time of need. Demonstrate excellence in readiness planning by compiling a comprehensive information resource to use in case of a disaster. 

Timely response in a crisis can minimize business interruption and the associated loss in revenue. More importantly, it can provide you invaluable information about the critical path focus needed to keep your operation meeting the needs of your business partners. Don't allow your competitors to get an advantage over you in regard to your customers. Once in the door, will you be able to get back in?

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, 847.697.8500. Let us help you stay on top!

Cleaning leather goods

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Before and after photo of heavily sooted high end leather purse

Fires in homes cause a lot of damage, that is not surprising. However, some content items are considered unsalvageable because there was never a cost effective means to cleaning them. As a result, many items are thrown away and are cluttering our landfills. That is not the case anymore!

By utilizing our newest cleaning system, Esporta, we are able to clean items that even professional clothing cleaners would not attempt. Esporta is a revolutionary cleaning system that uses Earth friendly cleaning products and a patented cleaning process that allows leather, as well as thousands or other items, to be cleaned quickly and thoroughly. 

Imagine, cleaning leather goods, sports equipment and pads, helmets, as well as cloth dolls, comforters, all in a cost effective, highly thorough cleaning system.

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, helping to make it "Like it never even happened."

What to do if you think you have mold?

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Mold found in our closet

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely. Whether your project requires antimicrobial cleanup all the way up to Dry Ice Blasting, SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County has the equipment, training and experience to handle even the worst situation.

“Like it never even happened.”

Sewer backup

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Sewer backup into your commercial building.

You are the facilities manager for a large commercial building. you get a call from one of your maintenance staff that your pump room has standing water. What do you need to do?

The first consideration is determining the source of the water. The cleanup requirements change dramatically depending on the source of water. If it was a small pipe break, maybe all you need to do is shop vac up the water and place a fan or two. 

However, if you suspect that the water is potentially sewer water, you will need to take precautions to ensure that you don't make the situation worse.

Making sure your cleanup crew is using proper PPE (personal protective equipment is very important. Even if the water appears "pretty clear" if it came back into your building through a plumbing "p-trap" you MUST treat it as sewage. The waste water needs to be put back into a sanitary sewer line and the affected area needs to be cleaned properly.

Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County when you need to get things done right!

Different types of fire require different cleanup

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Soot damage after a serious fire.

Smoke and soot is extremely invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures are then based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage property.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 847-697-8500

Clean up of mold on furniture

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Before and after photos of mold cleanup from a leather recliner

One of problems with water damage is that if it is not corrected quickly and properly, secondary damage can occur. Secondary damage is when items that are within the affected area of a water damage, but they are not in direct contact with the water. This can occur when the humidity in the area is not reduced to an appropriate level. High humidity in a room can will cause otherwise dry content to absorb that moisture (humidity) and can cause mold.

As can be seen in the picture, this recliner was in a water damage environment for quite a while. Although it was extremely moldy, we were able to properly clean it and restore it to preloss condition (probably even better than preloss condition. We also used our ATP tester and was able to show that not only was it clean, but it was "food grade clean"

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County making it "Like it never even happened."

Mold in newly constructed building

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Mold under raised floor in newly constructed municipal building.

Even new building construction can have a mold problem. This is a picture of the wall under a raised floor in which a mold problem developed. Although mold in not something you want to see in your building, if you take this as an opportunity to investigate what the water/moisture problem is, you can eliminate the moisture issue and remove the probability of mold again in the future. A good thing to remember is "you don't have a mold problem, you have a moisture problem." Address the water, and you will eliminate mold in the future. In this situation, we were able to properly remove the moldy material and keep the construction project on schedule!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, here to help! 847.697.8500.

Be sure everything is dry after a water leak is addressed

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Small water leaks can cause large mold issues if not addressed promptly.

This situation happens more often then is should. A small water leak is found, everything is wet; floors, walls, content, etc. The plumber is called, and the water leak is fixed. But the wet material is totally ignored! Mold will not start that day, but every day building materials are left wet, the possibility for mold to grow increases. But if everything dries out in a couple of days, did you really dodge the "mold bullet?" chances are if this area gets wet in the future, even years in the future, mold will start growing again, and you will not know why.

Getting everything dry may have originally taken a couple of day with a dehumidifier and some air movers. However, removal of mold affected materials will take longer, cost more and will require reconstruction as well.

Be sure to call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County to ensure everything is dry and stop mold in its tracks!!! 847.697.8500.

When storms hit Northwest Kane County, SERVPRO is ready to help!

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

Snow melt and heavy rains can cause flooding that could damage your home!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A quick response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the overall restoration cost. Whether it is your basement flood, sump pump backup and/or water coming in your doors or windows, we can help.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Elgin/NW Kane County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 847-697-8500

We can help you keep your business running after water damage occurs

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage shut down your business. Call SERVPRO!!

Flooding and water damage events at Elgin/Northwest Kane County commercial properties can be complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility to its preloss state.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water or fire damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Smoke damage in commercial high rises

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

Fires and smoke in stairwells of multi-level buildings allows smoke to travel to all areas of a building.

Smoke and soot is extremely invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Elgin/NW Kane County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures are then based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 847-697-8500

Elgin homeowners! We specialize in cleaning up and restoring flooded basements

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

Sump pumps can cause basement water damage if they are not working properly.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Elgin basement could flood, including: 

• Non-working sump pump
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 847.697.8500

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of thousands of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 847.697.8500

Do you have the insurance coverage to recover from a flood?

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

Don't leave your home unfinished because you don't have enough insurance coverage.

Flooding still remains the most costly natural hazard disaster in the United States. But did you know that flood losses are not typically covered under renter and homeowner insurance policies? Additionally, backup coverage in homes is typically limited. If you were trying to reduce your overall expenses, did you eliminate water backup coverage or reduce the overall coverage to save you a few dollars each month?

Do you have the coverage necessary to get yourself back "Like it Never Even Happened?" The cost of recovering from a sewage backup in your home can easily wipe out all of your savings and still leave you with a basement that you cannot use.

Contact your agent and discuss your coverage BEFORE the event occurs. Believe me, you WILL be very happy you did!

It's YOUR man cave! Don't let water damage limit your use of it!!

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

When you have lots of hard to replace items, trust them to the experts at SERVPRO!!

You have spent a lot of time getting it just right. The framed baseball cards, the stadium seats, the memorabilia that you have been collecting for years. The you got the furniture you always wanted; the leather chairs, the big screen TV even the card table and chairs that are the envy of all of your buddies.

But then the storm hit. The rains came and seemed like they work never stop. But you weren't scared, not even worried. You never had water in the basement before. But these rains-they were brutal!

You went downstairs the next morning and stepped right onto wet carpet. Now what? Who do you call! Who will take care or YOUR pride and joy!

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County has the experience and training to take care of everything, especially those autographed pictures of all your baseball hero's. Call us at 847.697.8500 to get your cave back up and running!!

Commercial loses hurt more than just you!

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

Choose the company that the "first responders" trust; call SERVPRO!!

What happens when the people that are charged with protecting our communities has a water loss? Who responds when the "first responders" have to deal with a sprinkler head damage? They can't wait, they need to get their building stabilized because any minute from now, they will be called out to save yours!!

The good men and women of our fire and police departments appreciate what fast response means. They know that the sooner you can get onsite and assess the situation, the less damage will occur and the faster they can get back to normal.

Some of our finest have been in this situation and they called on the experts at SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County. Accidents occur, but knowing how to properly deal with them is critical.

Call us at 847.697.8500 when you need our response!

Even small storms can cause a lot of damage

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded basement with wet content, flooring and workout equipment.

There are dozens of severe storm events across the country every year. Many of those can cause hundreds of millions of dollars in damages to homes, businesses and infrastructure. 

Realizing that your home or business has sustained damage due to a storm is hard to deal with. What do you do? Who do you call?

There is one bit of advise that we can give you that can save you thousands of dollars; Call SERVPRO fast!! Water damage doesn't just sit in your home and business. It spreads, everywhere. It wicks up the walls, into adjacent rooms. It even evaporates into the air and can cause "secondary damage" to areas of your building you are not even aware of. 

Even after you have sucked up the visible water off the floor and out of the carpet, water is still causing more damage every minute. 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County has the training, experience and equipment to get your building stabilized fast and minimize the damage that water causes.

Call SERVPRO at 847.697.8500!!

Getting rid of moldy material

3/3/2018 (Permalink)

Small water leaks can become large mold problems.

When you discover mold in your building, call in the experts in dealing with mold.

We can't even count how many jobs we have done because either internal maintenance crews or even outside contractors didn't know how to properly handle mold removal. 

Once proper containment is in place and control of the air is maintained, mold can be addressed. If carpet, drywall, wallpaper and insulation has mold growing on it, it is probably going to need to be removed. The affected material is removed from its location and is then properly bagged.

Those bags need to be properly handled to ensure that mold is not carried out of the containment area and allowed to spread into the air and onto other unaffected materials. 

Once all mold affected material has been removed, all of the surrounding areas can be cleaned and HEPA vacuumed to ensure all of the mold spores have been removed.

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County. Fire, water and mold damage remediation experts. Call us at 847.697.8500 to have us assist you with your project.

Doing mold work correctly

3/2/2018 (Permalink)

Proper containment is essential to performing mold work properly.

Cleaning up a building that has mold is not necessarily difficult, but it does require training, diligence, and extreme attention to detail.

The first step to ensuring a successful mold cleanup is containing the mold during the cleanup process to the affected area and not allowing mold to migrate to unaffected areas. The main way to limit the movement of mold is with containment barriers and air scrubbers. The installation of the containment barrier requires that we locate all of the HVAC vents, that we understand how the barrier will limit movement through the structure and that we locate areas where air can move through the structure via outlet/switch covers, penetrations through walls, ceilings and floors. Air scrubbers, which usually contain HEPA filters, are used to control the air flow within the building. By using HEPA air scrubbers we can control the airflow and eliminate mold from migrating out of the affected area containment.

Proper use of containment barriers and HEPA air scrubbers is essential to successful mold work completion.

Keeping your home safe when you have lots of snow

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

Keep your furnace vents clear of snow.

Snow can be very pretty. Lots of snow in your yard invites the kids to come outside and build snowmen, snow forts and sled. Although snow can be fun, it can also cause problems; serious problems.

Many homes with high efficiency furnaces have air intake and exhaust vents that allow the furnace to run properly. These can usually be found on the back of your house. They are usually made out of white PVC plastic.

If the snow in your yard starts piling up, put on your boots and do a quick check to ensure that those vents are not blocked by the snow. Blocked vents can cause carbon monoxide to enter into the house, and that is not healthy.

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, 847.697.8500. We are always here to help.

What if you needed to close your doors forever?

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

Having an ERP completed for your properties can be critically important.

Did you know that over 50% of businesses that have a major event such as a severe water damage or fire, never recover?! The loss of key customers due to delays in getting your operation back up and running could be the difference between success and never opening your doors again.

It is a scary thought.

Help your company by having SERVPRO schedule an ERP inspection. Our Emergency Ready Program will help facility managers prepare for the unthinkable. We start by identifying important facility information, such as water shut offs, and critical areas of importance within the building. By doing this we can allow our emergency restoration professionals to concentrate their efforts on the areas that will provide you the flexibility to stay in operation and maintaining your important clients needs until the entire cleanup is completed.

A little planning today can provide a lot of reassurance in the future.

Contact SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County at 847.697.8500 to schedule an inspection!

When storms or floods hit your town, SERVPRO is ready to help!!

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

When storms hit . . .

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A quick response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the overall restoration cost. Whether it is your basement flood, sump pump backup and/or water coming in your doors or windows, we can help.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Elgin/NW Kane County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 847-697-8500

Every fire is different and requires specialized cleaning methods

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning soot off of stone wall with dry ice blasting

Smoke and soot is extremely invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures are then based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today – 847.697.8500

Getting your commercial operations back open quickly!

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded offices shut down operations

Flooding and water damage events at Elgin/Northwest Kane County commercial properties can be complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility to its preloss state.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water or fire damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, 847.697.8500 for all your commercial property needs!

One of the toughest cleanup needs

2/6/2018 (Permalink)

Bio Hazard cleanups require special training as well as a human tough

Bio-hazard cleanup is different than any other type of cleanup. Not only is there special training to ensure the safety of the workers, occupants, and other people who may have access to the affected area, but there are other issues as well.

If the cleanup is in a home or residential facility, emotions will be involved. Was it an accident? Was it fatal? What connections to the injured party does everyone have? 

If the cleanup is in a commercial facility, is the potential risk of injury to others corrected? Can work continue while the cleanup is being performed, or are critical areas of the facility shut down?

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County is fulled trained and experienced to handle these cleanups with professional staff that are kind empathetic and caring.

As tough as these jobs are, it is important to do them right; the first time.

Call SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, 847.697.8500 for all your residential and commercial remediation needs.

Arctic cold air can cause pipes to break in your HEATED house!

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Water in the pipes froze and the ice actually pushed the water valve off of the pipe!!

Below zero arctic air is hard on all of us. Add strong winds and it can really cause problems in your house. Even if your thermometer is set at 68 degrees, temperatures within your ceilings, walls and in vanities and cabinets may drop to temps near freezing. 

When outside conditions drop to below freezing and getting close to zero and the wind is really blowing, you need to pay particular attention to the spots where you have access to pipes. First, check the temperature in cabinets and vanities where water pipes are visible. If the temps in these spaces are close to freezing, leave the doors open to allow warmer temps in to keep the pipes warm. Consider using a small fan to blow warm air into that space. if you are concerned about pipes in your walls or ceilings breaking, you might want to let the water in your faucets to drip slightly. This will allow the water to stay moving and help prevent pipes from freezing. 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County is here to help during the cold season, with helpful tips to keep your homes safe, and also to clean up if damage does occur!!

Did you forget and leave a hose attached to an outside faucet?

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Soon the weather will start warming, and believe it or not, it will be so warm you will want to wash the car, or do some other outside cleaning. If you are like us, you can't wait!!

However, if you realize that you left a hose connected to an outside faucet, you might have inadvertently caused your pipe inside the house to freeze and break. The actual term for the faucet is silcock. What makes the silcock different is that the actual shut off valve is inside the house, 16-20" where it is hopefully warm. However, even though the valve is inside the house at a safe distance to keep it warm, leaving a hose attached can cause ice to form and cause the pipe to break between the outside faucet and the silcock valve. (Keep in mind that that entire pipe is still inside the house!!)

This is good in that although the silcock pipe is ruptured, no water has been lost because the valve is shut off. HOWEVER, once you open the valve by turning on the outside faucet, water will start pouring into your home!!

Play it safe, and if you left a hose attached all winter, before you turn on the water, go inside and look for the silcock and inspect it for damage. You can do this with a flashlight and you can also run your hands along the pipe and feel for bumps and breaks. If you find any, call your plumber and ask them to replace it right away! 

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County, 847.697.8500. Here to help!!

Bio-Hazard: Safety first!

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Bio-Hazard cleanup requires careful planning.

What is a Bio-Hazard? Well the dictionary definition is "a biological substance that's dangerous to people or the environment."

It often comes to our attention as a result of a serious injury or death. Cleaning up a Bio-Hazard has many aspects to it. Our primary concern is to make sure our employees and others in the vicinity do not become injured as a result of working in that environment. Blood and any associated blood borne pathogens need to be properly handled due to their inherent risk to humans.

Proper personal protective equipment is just the start. Anyone working with bio-hazards needs proper training in procedures, respirator protection, health and safety and hazard communications. Items such as needles, broken glass or other sharp objects need to be handled very carefully and preferably with a tool that limits our need to contact it.

Materials that have come in direct contact with blood need to be properly disposed with a licensed waste hauler. This may include PPE, clothing, items used to actually do the cleanup such as paper products and rags, and any cloth material that needed to be removed from the affected site such as cushions, carpeting, bedding, etc.

This work is not particularly difficult, but being able to do the work properly takes a lot of training, planning, careful following of procedures.

What to do and not to do after a fire?

6/2/2017 (Permalink)

Fire affects everything.

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house? It might be best to have a professional evaluate first. 
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform. Cleaning up after a fire loss can be very specialized work
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

When your home and belongings have been damaged due to fire and smoke, call the experienced and knowledgeable staff at SERVPRO of Elgin, 847.697.8500, to make it "Like it never even happened."

Saving hard wood floors when wet

5/18/2017 (Permalink)

Drying floors due to water damage with specialty vacuum drying panels and desiccant technology!

In today's modern home, it is not uncommon to have beautiful hardwood floors in many areas of the home; especially kitchens. When these floors get wet and are not dried properly, it is a major expense to remove and replace them. This work is also a major disruption to the family. 

SERVPRO of Elgin employs the latest technology that allows them to save many floors that would otherwise might be torn out. The "Trick" is to get our specially trained crews out to the job site quickly. 

By using special vacuum drying panels, desiccant drying tools and with professional daily monitoring, we can ensure that the flooring has been dried properly. If addressed quickly, some floors will not even require refinishing!

Call 847.697.8500 to reach the hardwood floor drying specialists at SERVPRO of Elgin! Only SERVPRO can make it "Like it never even happened."

Returning homeowner content to like new condition after a fire

5/18/2017 (Permalink)

How many different content items can you see in this single photo?

When SERVPRO of Elgin is asked to respond to a house fire, we work very hard to ensure the homeowner fully understands the entire process. We can help explain our processes and let them know how long it will take to get their house cleaned and rebuilt and get them settled back to normal. Calling us at 847.697.8500 brings you the knowledge and caring of a professional team of restoration experts.

But what about your content? Content is basically everything in your house that would fall out if you were able to pick up your house and turn it upside down. Clothing, furniture, appliances, electronics, shoes, bedding, toys, etc.

SERVPRO of Elgin is a Contents restoration Specialist with years of experience in properly restoring your families' content. We thoroughly inspect each item to determine the damage. If it is determined to be salvageable, we will identify the type of cleaning and deodorization method to utilize. Once each item is restored, we ask the homeowner to come to our state of the art warehouse and inspect their content themselves. We leave nothing to chance!!

SERVPRO of Elgin should be your "go-to" company for all of your fire and smoke cleanup needs! Call us at 847.697.8500 to learn more about what we can do for you!!

Elgin Residents: We specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

5/17/2017 (Permalink)

Flooded basement due to heavy storms and a broken sump pump!

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Elgin basement could flood, including: 

• Non-working sump pump
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 847.697.8500

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of thousands of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 847.697.8500

Elgin Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

9/7/2016 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Elgin/Northwest Kane County specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 847-697-8500

When Storms or Floods hit Elgin/NW Kane County, SERVPRO is ready!

8/12/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Elgin/NW Kane County!

SERVPRO ofElgin/NW Kane County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Elgin/NW Kane County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 847-697-8500

Tune Up Your Furnace Before the Cold Comes

11/3/2015 (Permalink)

If you have any questions, please give SERVPRO of Elgin a call at 847-697-8500.  We are here to help! 

Stay warm this winter with a well-running, efficient heating system.

When the temperature dips, you call on your furnace to keep your home cozy and warm. The last thing you want is to wake to shivers in the middle of the night.

Before the heating season begins, get your furnace checked out to make sure it’s ready to give you uninterrupted winter comfort. An added benefit is that a well-running furnace uses less fuel, saving you money on heating costs.

A thorough furnace check-up is best left to a qualified technician. For most homes, a furnace check-up consists of the following steps:

• Inspect the thermostat for proper operation and calibration.
• Change or clean the air filter.
• Check all electrical components and controls.
• Oil motors as needed.
• Inspect the heat exchanger for possible cracks, which could allow carbon monoxide into your home.
• Check the air flow.
• Check the air/fuel mixture.
• Make certain that the flues and chimneys are properly connected, in good condition and not blocked.

There are also steps you can take to get the most out of your furnace.

• Change the air filters regularly.
• Be sure the thermostat is set in heating mode.
• Make sure your registers and vents are open and free of obstructions.

For an added measure of safety, have smoke and carbon monoxide alarms installed throughout your home.

Pipe freezes and bursts

12/18/2013 (Permalink)

Pipe freeze in ceiling and resulting damage

Some people turn down their thermostats when they leave for vacation. Doing this in the winter can cause internal wall and ceiling tempuratures to fall to levels that could cause pipes to freeze.

SERVPRO was able to help this homeowner get back into their home quickly!