Recent Commercial Posts

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

8/16/2023 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Elgin/NW 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/NW Kane County

SERVPRO of Elgin/NW 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.

 

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)

Library 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)

firefighters 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)

SERVPRO vehicles 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:

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

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

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Floor drying panels 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.

Lean more about Elgin

A silent cold weather killer

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Carbon Monoxide 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)

Elgin Reading Center 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 Team 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:

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 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

Another tool to help solve difficult problems

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

Checking surface temps with an IR thermometer 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!

Will your company survive that fire?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage 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!

Safety precautions during your commercial visit

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Open for business 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.

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

Learn more about Elgin

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.

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:

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

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Aiming fire extinguisher at base of fire 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

How to Prevent Water Damage in your Elgin Community Property

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fleet in front of commercial building 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.

Learn more about Elgin

Establish an ERP for your Elgin Business

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Working with our customers to complete their ERP 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

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.

Learn more about Elgin

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.

Learn more about Elgin.

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.

Learn more about Elgin.

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

Learn more about Elgin.

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:

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

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.

Learn more about Elgin

How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Elgin Commercial Property

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Keep Your Commercial Property Safe 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.

Learn more about Elgin

Establish An ERP For Your Elgin Business

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Creating a commercial ERP for a client 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

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.

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!

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!

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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!

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!