9 Tips for Effective Home Cleaning and When to Call SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast for Help

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Use appropriate cleaning supplies for specific tasks. Never mix bleach and ammonia cleaners, and always read the instructions on cleaning products.

Keeping a clean home is important for both aesthetic and health reasons. However, sometimes cleaning can be a daunting task. Whether it's tackling tough stains, organizing clutter, or simply finding the time to clean, maintaining a clean home can be a challenge. That's where SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast comes in - we offer professional cleaning services to help take the burden off of homeowners. But for those who want to tackle cleaning on their own, here are some tips to make the process easier and more effective.

Declutter First

Before starting any cleaning, take the time to declutter. Get rid of any items that are no longer needed or wanted. This will make the cleaning process easier and more efficient.

Start from the Top

When cleaning a room, start from the top and work your way down. This ensures that any dust or debris that falls will be picked up as you clean lower surfaces.

Use a Vacuum with HEPA Filters

Vacuuming is an essential part of cleaning, but using a vacuum with HEPA filters ensures that allergens and other particles are trapped and not released back into the air.

Clean Surfaces Before Floors

When cleaning a room, clean the surfaces before the floors. This ensures that any dust or debris that falls during surface cleaning will be picked up during floor cleaning.

Use Microfiber Cloths

Microfiber cloths are great for cleaning because they trap dirt and debris, and can be used without any cleaning products.

Don't Forget About the Small Stuff

Don't overlook small items like light switches, doorknobs, and remote controls. These items can harbor germs and should be cleaned regularly.

Clean Appliances Regularly

Appliances like refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers should be cleaned regularly to prevent buildup and keep them running efficiently.

Take Care of Carpets and Rugs

Carpets and rugs should be vacuumed regularly, and deep cleaned at least once a year. This helps to remove dirt and allergens, and prolong the life of the carpet.

Call in the Pros

For cleaning tasks that are too difficult or time-consuming for homeowners, calling in the professionals is always an option. SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast offers a range of professional cleaning services, including carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, and air duct cleaning.

At SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast, we understand that cleaning can be a challenge for homeowners. That's why we offer a range of professional cleaning services to help make the process easier and more effective. Our trained technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to tackle even the toughest cleaning tasks, ensuring that your home is clean and healthy. From carpet cleaning to air duct cleaning, we have the expertise and experience to handle any cleaning job. So whether you're dealing with a tough stain or just need a deep clean, don't hesitate to call on the professionals at SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast.

SERVPRO's Fire Damage Services

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Fires have many causes, and can be immensely stressful in their aftermath. We are here to help.

Fires can be devastating, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair. In such a situation, it is essential to have a trusted partner by your side who can help you restore your home or business to its pre-fire condition or as closely as possible.

Our highly-trained professionals have the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle any fire damage restoration project, no matter how big or small. We understand that fires can be hazardous, and the resulting smoke and soot can cause long-term damage if not addressed promptly. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of fire damage restoration services that go beyond just cleaning up the physical damage.

Our team is equipped to handle smoke and soot removal, deodorization, and cleanup of hazardous materials to ensure a safe and healthy environment for you and your family. We use the latest tools and techniques to remove any traces of smoke or soot, leaving your property smelling fresh and clean.

As a business owner, we understand that a fire can have a significant impact on your bottom line. That's why we offer large loss teams that work alongside our local SERVPRO experts to help get your business up and running as soon as possible. Our fire damage restoration specialists understand the unique challenges faced by businesses, and we work tirelessly to minimize any disruption to your operations.

We know that a fire can break out at any time, day or night. That's why our Customer Care Center is available 24/7 to take your call. Our goal is to respond quickly to your emergency and provide the support you need to restore your property to its pre-fire condition.

While waiting for help to arrive, safety is key. We advise assessing whether it is safe to stay in the house, looking out for electrical and "slip and fall" hazards, and only attempting activities that are safe for you to perform. Wet materials can be very heavy, so it's essential to be careful.

If safe to enter, and weather permits, we recommend opening windows and doors to "air out" the structure and help remove the smoke smell. Our professionals will take care of the rest, providing comprehensive fire damage restoration services to restore your property to its pre-fire condition.

Fires happen, but you don't have to face the aftermath alone. SERVPRO's fire damage restoration services can help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible. We are committed to providing you with the highest level of service and support, ensuring that you have a partner you can trust during these challenging times. Contact us 24/7 for fire cleanup, smoke damage, and fire damage restoration services.

How to Prevent Fires

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Fires can be prevented.

House fires can happen to anyone, but the good news is that many house fires are preventable. By taking some simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of a fire occurring in your home. Here are some tips to help you prevent house fires:

Install Smoke Alarms:

Smoke alarms are your first line of defense against a house fire. Install them in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Test your smoke alarms once a month to make sure they are working properly and replace the batteries at least once a year.

Keep Your Kitchen Safe:

Cooking is the leading cause of house fires, so be sure to never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking. Keep flammable items such as towels, paper towels, and potholders away from the stove. Clean up any grease spills immediately, and make sure that your stove and oven are in good working order.

Don't Overload Electrical Outlets:

Overloaded outlets can easily cause a fire. Be sure to use surge protectors when plugging in multiple devices, and never use an extension cord for a long-term solution.

Be Careful with Candles:

Candles can create a cozy atmosphere, but they are also a major fire hazard. Always place candles on a stable surface, away from anything flammable, and never leave them unattended. Consider using battery-operated candles instead.

Keep Space Heaters Away from Flammable Objects:

Space heaters can be a great way to keep warm during the colder months, but they can also be a fire hazard. Keep them away from flammable objects such as curtains, furniture, and bedding.

Clean Your Dryer Vent Regularly:

Lint buildup in your dryer vent can easily cause a fire. Clean your dryer vent regularly to prevent lint buildup.

Have a Fire Escape Plan:

Even with all of these precautions, fires can still happen. Have a fire escape plan in place so that everyone in your home knows how to get out safely in case of a fire. Practice your plan regularly so that everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Don't Smoke Indoors:

Smoking is a major cause of house fires. If you must smoke, do it outside, and never smoke in bed. Be sure to properly dispose of cigarette butts in a fire-safe container.

Store Flammable Materials Safely:

Keep flammable materials such as gasoline, paint, and propane tanks in a cool, dry place, away from any heat sources. Be sure to store them in their original containers and never mix chemicals.

Install a Sprinkler System:

Installing a sprinkler system can help prevent fires from spreading and save lives. While it can be expensive, it can also be a worthwhile investment for your safety and peace of mind.

Preventing house fires requires taking precautions and being mindful of potential hazards. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of a house fire and keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Remember to regularly test your smoke alarms and have a fire escape plan in place in case of an emergency. Stay safe!

Our Vandalism and Graffiti Services

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with unwanted graffiti and vandalism can be a major headache for both homeowners and businesses.

Vandalism and graffiti can be frustrating and costly experiences for property owners. Not only does it diminish the appearance and value of the property, but it can also cause further damage if not addressed promptly. Fortunately, we offer professional graffiti and vandalism clean-up services that can restore your property to its pre-damage condition.

We understand that some acts of vandalism require immediate attention, particularly those that involve broken windows or doors. Our technicians are available at any time, day or night, to respond to your emergency and prevent further damage from occurring.

Our team of professionals is also highly trained and experienced in handling damage caused by vandalism or graffiti. We hold industry credentials from organizations such as the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), ensuring that our technicians have the expertise and knowledge to effectively handle any type of damage.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, we have a reputation for providing exceptional service and quality workmanship. We have the tools, equipment, and expertise to handle any type of graffiti or vandalism clean-up job, no matter how large or small.

In addition to providing high-quality restoration services, we also strive to make the insurance claims process as easy and stress-free as possible for our clients. Our team will help you navigate the claims process and coordinate the necessary paperwork, ensuring that your claim is processed quickly and efficiently.

When it comes to removing graffiti, there are several methods that we may use depending on the type of surface and the type of paint or ink used. Some common methods include solvents and a stiff or wire brush, pressure washing, and media blasting using dry ice or sand. However, some surfaces can be etched by pressure washing.

The time it takes to clean graffiti depends on several factors, including the size of the area covered, the type of surface, and the type of paint or ink used. Our team will assess the damage and provide a customized plan of action to ensure that the clean-up is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Vandalism and graffiti can be frustrating experiences for property owners. However, with the help of SERVPRO's professional graffiti and vandalism clean-up services, you can quickly restore your property to its pre-damage condition. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you.

Our Commercial Services

1/23/2023 (Permalink)

We serve industrial and commercial facilities!

If you're a business or property manager, you may be wondering what services we provide for non-residential customers. We are proud to offer the following:

Large Loss

Disaster can strike at any time. In the Pacific Northwest, floods, mudslides, and other rain related events take place frequently. We know how inconvenient these can be for businesses and commercial properties, so we are ready at a moment's notice to help you with a water, storm, or fire related loss to get you, your employees, and your business back on track.

General + Specialty Cleaning

Commercial properties and businesses can find general cleaning services with us. Carpet and upholstery cleaning are among the many general cleaning services we offer.

We also offer cleaning services for traumatizing events as well, including crime scene, biohazard, and beyond. All parties involved will be treated with the highest level of respect and sensitivity.

Emergency Ready Plan (ERP)

We can also help you make a plan for disasters of any type. That way, you and your employees have a plan and procedure in place for when the worst case scenario happens.

Want to know more about the commercial services we offer? Visit our main website.

General Trends in Seattle Properties with Water Damage

9/29/2022 (Permalink)

Property owners breathe a sigh of relief when the SERVPRO team from Seattle arrives swiftly for water damage restoration.

Experienced SERVPRO Crews Ease Seattle Water Restoration

Most materials exhibit clear signs when exposed to water, including color alterations or changes in physical form. Since other patterns might also develop, knowing them can help you understand the water damage better and resolve the problems at your Seattle home conveniently.

Although exposure may be uniform in your Seattle home, the water damage is rarely consistent. Some changes occur almost instantaneously, while others take time to develop. The differences based on time are broadly categorized into two groups - primary and secondary damages. A seasoned water restoration team like SERVPRO can quickly tell you which secondary issues to expect and whether there are any ways to prevent them from developing. We also find practical solutions to resolve primary damages.

Common primary damages:

• Wood swelling
• Carpet backing delamination
• Rusting metal surfaces
• Buckling of floorboards

Wood is widely used in structural areas like frames, floors, and trim. Many furniture items also include some wooden parts. Wood is naturally porous, so any water accumulating on its surfaces is progressively absorbed into the material's core. As the moisture content rises, the physical form of the wood also changes, which manifests as swelling. Swelling is a fully reversible form of water damage if adequately managed. Our SERVPRO technicians facilitate controlled drying by using dehumidifiers or creating drying chambers to ensure wood dries at a pace that does not lead to permanent form distortion.

Some of the materials exposed to the water are made of different substances. For instance, a carpet has fibers at the top and a couple of backing layers. Backings are usually held together by adhesives. Soaking them for some time and subjecting them to physical pressure leads to the deterioration of the bond, which can lead to separation, known as delamination. Our SERVPRO IICRC-Certified technicians expedite water extraction on carpeted surfaces. We also minimize physical pressure, such as dragging heavy furniture over surfaces or foot traffic.

Moisture Tendencies

Apart from the physical traits of materials or the activities carried out within the property after a water intrusion, moisture also has some characteristics that influence the outcomes. The primary point to note when handling moisture is that nature always seeks equilibrium, which results in consistent patterns such as wetness spreading through materials as it moves from high pressure to low pressure. Any wet materials also dry given sufficient time. However, the water does not magically disappear; instead, it is released into the surroundings. In some instances, such release triggers secondary damages.

Forms of secondary damage:

• Wallpaper softening and peeling off
• Moistening and crumbling ceiling tiles
• Mildew and mold growth

Unlike the readily reversible primary damage, addressing secondary water damage requires elaborate procedures. In some cases, the deterioration in materials is so significant only replacement can resolve it. For instance, water accumulating on ceiling spaces causes the panels to sag. Crumbling is also a likely outcome of the weight and moisture action. Mold development is another significant problem since it consumes materials causing significant rot-like decay. Most materials cannot withstand extended mold growth, whether structural framing, paneling, or surface finishes. Our SERVPRO teams include Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians who can handle mold issues.

SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast has significant experience dealing with water damage cases. Call us at (206) 362-9295 to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Seattle Fire Damage Cleanup and Restoration

9/29/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage left by a fire can be challenging to remediate. Contact our certified SERVPRO team in Seattle. We are Here to Help.

SERVPRO Restores Rugs and Carpets after Fire Damage in Seattle

Fires produce a wide range of wastes from incomplete combustion. Some solids like plastics melt when exposed to high temperatures leaving smeary residues. Some materials release wet smoke, which combines soot, aerosols, and significant amounts of vapor. As the wastes settle on contents and surfaces, they can cause soiling or staining. When thinking of restoring your Seattle home, you need a solution for all aspects of fire damage, including stains.

Fabrics are the primary concern when thinking of discoloration and stains in your Seattle home after fire damage. Therefore, carpets, upholstery, area rugs, and draperies are the primary target. SERVPRO has the technical skills, equipment, and chemical reagents necessary to take care of stains or other unique cleaning tasks.

Cleaning procedures:

• Removing excess soils
• Establishing fiber sensitivity
• Spot cleaning
• Rinsing and neutralizing fabrics

Removing stains when fabrics are heavily soiled is not viable since water and cleaning agents tend to set most residues and can create new stains before you even address the existing ones. Our SERVPRO technicians first blot, scrape or vacuum upholstery items and carpets, thus removing dry soot and other soils accumulating on their surfaces.

Another crucial issue to address early is establishing whether the fabrics have any sensitivities. Materials can be sensitive to water or the chemical agents used to clean up fire residues. Sensitivity influences the choice of cleaning products. Special solvent spotters are necessary for stain removal for moisture-sensitive materials, but for non-sensitive fabrics, regular spotting reagents used for carpets and upholstery are adequate.

Working on Stains

Combining the power of the stain remover with gentle physical force is the ideal approach when you start dealing with stubborn fire residues. Our SERVPRO technicians first apply a spotting product to the affected fabric and then tamp gently using a tamping brush. Blotting the area with a towel helps transfer the soil from the carpet or upholstery item. A white towel is preferable to observe the rate of soil transfer.

Defeating stubborn stains requires:

• Alkaline solutions
• Acidic solutions
• Stabilized hydrogen peroxide

The products that help remove soot stains from your carpet or rug can be detrimental to the fabric if left in place over prolonged periods. Rinsing and neutralizing the material after dealing with spots and stains is critical. Our SERVPRO UFT-Certified technicians handle this step conveniently since we can use an extractor or upholstery machine to extract and rinse the intended areas.

Since rinsing, unlike cleaning, may not involve visible soils, it might be challenging to tell whether the actions taken are sufficient to remove all traces of the dirt or caustic cleaning agents used. Our technicians test the pH of the area to determine whether further rinsing or neutralization is necessary. If the results are deemed satisfactory, the next step is proper drying since excess moisture can trigger problems too.

Drying requires sufficient airflow and heat to facilitate moisture evaporation from the wet materials. Humidity control may also be necessary to help extract the moisture released from the wet materials into the air, ensuring it does not create other problems. Our SERVPRO technicians can set up dehumidifiers or air movers at the property to facilitate the drying of the cleaned carpets, rugs, or upholstery.

SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast can help you combat any aspect of fire damage. Call us at (206) 362-9295. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Precautions Necessary in Seattle Property after Mold Damage

9/29/2022 (Permalink)

You can depend on our professionals with state-of-the-art equipment to thoroughly remediate mold damage in your Seattle property.

SERVPRO Runs Mold Remediation in Seattle Homes Safely

Mold straddles different spectrums of property damage. It soils and consumes materials while simultaneously creating hazardous conditions at a property. Therefore, taking precautionary steps is as crucial as any other action in your Seattle property when resolving mold damage.

The best precaution step would be to keep your Seattle property mold damage free. However, if you can see signs of contamination, then it is too late for that. You should move forward and find a way to mitigate the problem while protecting your family members from any detrimental effects. Our SERVPRO Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians receive training focusing on advanced and straightforward ways to handle mold remediation safely.

Simple safety actions during remediation :

• Do not stir too much airflow
• Contain areas before demolition
• Do not introduce moisture unnecessarily

Precautions are necessary when cleaning, moving contents, or removing moldy materials. One comprehensive solution is setting up containment barriers separating different house sections, thus ensuring any disturbed debris stays within the soiled area. The best containment is made from 6-mil plastic sheets supported by PVC pipes or spring-loaded metal rods since it is easy to set up and forms airtight barriers. With the containment in place, work crews can disturb materials without fear of spreading debris. Our SERVPRO technicians wear personal protective equipment such as goggles, respirators, and rubber gloves to protect themselves from exposure. In case of severe contamination, a full bodysuit is necessary.

Managing a Mold Damaged Environment

Since containment is not practical in every mold damage case or all areas of a property, knowing how to manage the environment, in general, is ideal. Moisture and airflow are the main issues to control since cleaning and drying are the main activities required when restoring contaminated areas. Airflow can be affected by abrasive cleaning processes such as compressed air or drying wet areas using air movers. Our SERVPRO technicians look for alternatives that do not create problems. For instance, HEPA vacuuming surfaces to remove colony debris by drawing it in rather than spreading it. Maximizing water extraction and then using dehumidifiers can limit the need for air movers.

Other steps that limit the spread of mold debris:

• Sealing HVAC Vents before starting the remediation
• Bagging and sealing removed materials
• Establishing negative air pressure

Moisture influences mold development and spreading. Using significant water when cleaning areas soiled by mold is not ideal since it can precipitate re-infestation. Alternatively, considerable drying efforts are necessary. Cleaning the contaminated areas using alternative approaches can be a better approach. Our SERVPRO technicians use soda or dry ice blasting. The two methods use sodium bicarbonate and dry ice pellets, driven at high pressure against a surface where they disintegrate on impact, removing the residue accumulation on the surface. Blast cleaning does not involve any moisture, so it cannot fuel further contamination. Sodium bicarbonate has an added advantage since it creates a harsh environment for mold spores while also deodorizing. On the other hand, dry ice does not leave any residues.

SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast handles mold damage regularly while following IICRC standards to ensure safety for work crews and home occupants. Call us at (206) 362-9295. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

SERVPRO Offers Mold Remediation in Seattle

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

SEWRVPRO technicians are IICRC certified to perform mold inspections in Seattle

Need Mold Inspection and Removal in Seattle – Call SERVPRO

Your home or business can host mold colonies if the humidity level is too high or there is a water leak. Mold can cause health effects. Many residents first notice a strong, musty smell emanating from an area of their home or business, and once they investigate, they find a mold colony in a warm dark place.

SERVPRO provides mold inspection services for Seattle clients. Our team inspects the mold infestation and provides guidance regarding state-required documentation and inspection requirements. We advise how best to deal with the mold in your unique situation. The simple solution is to hire professionals like us to remediate the problem.

Mold spores exist everywhere, and once they find a food source with high moisture levels, colonies quickly begin to grow. Our local humid conditions contribute to many mold infestations. We offer suggestions to help prevent mold infestations in your home.

• Keep air conditioning systems running
• Install a dehumidifier and operate it during humid weather conditions
• Ensure good ventilation in all rooms

SERVPRO also follows industry guidelines (IICRC) while removing mold infestations from your home. Negative pressure rooms, scraping surfaces from top to bottom, using industry-approved materials to remove mold, and controlled demolition techniques for severely damaged structures and contents. Our primary concern is preventing mold spores from moving to other areas of the home, reducing moisture levels, and removing damaged materials from your home.

Our mold inspection and remediation services include:

• Attic mold removal
• Bathroom mold removal
• Basement mold remediation and removal

Call the mold inspection specialists at SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast and nearby areas for assistance. We can help 24/7. Call (206) 362-9295.

Precautions Necessary in Seattle Property after Mold Damage

8/29/2022 (Permalink)

You can depend on our professionals with state-of-the-art equipment to thoroughly remediate mold damage in your Seattle property.

SERVPRO Runs Mold Remediation in Seattle Homes Safely

Mold straddles different spectrums of property damage. It soils and consumes materials while simultaneously creating hazardous conditions at a property. Therefore, taking precautionary steps is as crucial as any other actions in your Seattle property when resolving mold damage. 

The best precaution step would be to keep your Seattle property mold damage free. However, if you can see signs of contamination, then it is too late for that. You should move forward and find a way to mitigate the problem while protecting your family members from any detrimental effects. Our SERVPRO Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians receive training focusing on advanced and straightforward ways to handle mold remediation safely.

Simple safety actions during remediation :

• Do not stir too much airflow
• Contain areas before demolition
• Do not introduce moisture unnecessarily 

Precautions are necessary when cleaning, moving contents, or removing moldy materials. One comprehensive solution is setting up containment barriers separating different house sections, thus ensuring any disturbed debris stays within the soiled area. The best containment is made from 6-mil plastic sheets supported by PVC pipes or spring-loaded metal rods since it is easy to set up and forms airtight barriers. With the containment in place, work crews can disturb materials without fear of spreading debris. Our SERVPRO technicians wear personal protective equipment such as goggles, respirators, and rubber gloves to protect themselves from exposure. In case of severe contamination, a full bodysuit is necessary.

Managing a Mold Damaged Environment

Since containment is not practical in every mold damage case or all areas of a property, knowing how to manage the environment, in general, is ideal. Moisture and airflow are the main issues to control since cleaning and drying are the main activities required when restoring contaminated areas. Airflow can be affected by abrasive cleaning processes such as compressed air or drying wet areas using air movers. Our SERVPRO technicians look for alternatives that do not create problems. For instance, HEPA vacuuming surfaces to remove colony debris by drawing it in rather than spreading it. Maximizing water extraction and then using dehumidifiers can limit the need for air movers.

Other steps that limit the spread of mold debris:

• Sealing HVAC Vents before starting the remediation
• Bagging and sealing removed materials
• Establishing negative air pressure

Moisture influences mold development and spreading. Using significant water when cleaning areas soiled by mold is not ideal since it can precipitate re-infestation. Alternatively, considerable drying efforts are necessary. Cleaning the contaminated areas using alternative approaches can be a better approach. Our SERVPRO technicians use soda or dry ice blasting. The two methods use sodium bicarbonate and dry ice pellets, driven at high pressure against a surface where they disintegrate on impact, removing the residue accumulation on the surface. Blast cleaning does not involve any moisture, so it cannot fuel further contamination. Sodium bicarbonate has an added advantage since it creates a harsh environment for mold spores while also deodorizing. On the other hand, dry ice does not leave any residues. 

SERVPRO of Seattle Northeast handles mold damage regularly while following IICRC standards to ensure safety for work crews and home occupants. Call us at (206) 362-9295. We’re "Faster to any size disaster".