Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

Stop spreading the germs in your Elgin home

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Child sneezing 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.

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.

Learn more about Elgin

The city of Elgin heroes

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Real life heroes 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)

Sneezing 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.

Stop spreading the germs in your Elgin home

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

Big blow! 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 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

Are you kidding me?!

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Stripped out car 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!

2021 First Responders Bowl game!!!

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

First Responder Bowl logo 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 28th. 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!!

Stop spreading the germs in Elgin

3/20/2021 (Permalink)

Sneezing 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.

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

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.

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.

Learn more about Elgin. 

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.

Learn more about Elgin.

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.

Learn more about Elgin

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 26th. 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.

Commercial Emergency Ready Program

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Out of business sign 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.

More about Elgin

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.

Learn more about Elgin

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.

Learn more about Elgin

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.

Learn more about Elgin.

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.

Learn more about Elgin

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 30th. 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.

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.

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.