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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Why SERVPRO Blog Posts

Reasons Durham Homes Require Professional Mold Damage Remediation

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

Found or smell mold? Our SERVPRO team in Durham can root out the cause and remediate the mold damage on your property.

SERVPRO Conveniently Resolves Durham Mold Damage Issues

On discovering mold contamination, it may seem like a benign problem. The signs that alert you of trouble in your Durham home can be a mild musty smell or slight discoloration and bubbling of surface finishes. Therefore, a DIY approach to resolving the mold damage may seem appropriate since it does not seem like much work. You might also want to save costs by doing things yourself, especially when you think the problem might recur. However, several reasons necessitate a professional intervention.

From a casual look at your Durham home, severe mold damage might seem trivial because the bulk of the contamination is hidden out of sight in wall cavities, ceiling spaces, or behind fixtures such as sinks and bathtubs. The true extent of the burden you face is only revealed after opening up the concealment. A professional like SERVPRO has excellent inspection resources, so it is easier to confirm whether the problem is superficial without opening up concealed areas.

Tools for non-invasive mold inspection:

  • Thermal cameras
  • Borescopes
  • Inspection cameras

Even when the extent of mold contamination is not hidden, decision-making can still be a challenge. However, if you consider the superior actions a professional team can take, you can change your outlook. For example, you may not know how to clear heavy mold residues from unfinished structural supports such as trusses or surfaces in an area like the attic. A professional team like SERVPRO can readily tackle such a challenging task through blast cleaning. Superior resources help throughout every stage of the remediation.

Mold restoration stages:

  • Establishing containment
  • Removing contamination
  • Cleaning settled materials
  • Drying and deodorization

Various types of containment are necessary for a mold damaged property. You probably know about installing plastic sheeting to cover large openings such as doors and hallways. Professionals like SERVPRO do a comprehensive containment by sealing HVAC vents and creating separate containment sections such as decontamination areas and clean rooms. Containment also involves setting up equipment to establish negative air pressure.

Removing Unwanted Materials

Microbial growth processes contribute to unwanted materials in many ways. The mass of colonies left on surfaces is one such category, while the deterioration of organic materials in contents and structural areas is another category. Procedural removal is necessary to present spreading soiling or exposure to hazardous materials. Our SERVPRO crews clean surfaces from top to bottom to rid them of settled spores. We also consider airflow direction, especially when setting a negative air pressure system.

Removing heavily contaminated materials deemed unsalvageable may also be necessary. Our crews remove porous materials such as drywall, insulation, and carpeting since mold hyphae penetrate them. We also inspect solid semi-porous materials like structural wood to determine the level of deterioration. Removal is necessary when rotting compromises the structural integrity of such materials.

Mold remediation is not over without doing some finishing touches. Drying and deodorization are the main finishing processes necessary. Unlike other property damage, mold limits your choices during the finishing stage. For instance, misting water-based deodorizers in the property can be counterproductive since moisture promotes mold growth. Regular drying involving air movers to boost evaporation can also spread residues. A professional restoration team has access to superior equipment such as hydroxyl generators for deodorization and desiccant dehumidifiers for drying.

SERVPRO of North Durham offers convenient services to eliminate worries about managing mold damage. Call us at (919) 467-0880 when you need assistance. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How Experienced Experts Make a Different During Mold Removal in Durham

3/27/2023 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO techs have the skills and experience to do thorough mold damage inspections on your Durham property.

Why SERVPRO Encourages Immediate Mold Cleanup Services in Durham

If you have been asking yourself why SERVPRO's mold removal services count during a time of need, you are about to learn something new. First, you need to know that mold spores are always present on almost all surfaces; they need conducive conditions to start growing. So, if you recently noticed a musty odor and some black or green specks, there is a high chance that your property has mold.

Our SERVPRO technicians have the skills and experience to do thorough mold damage inspections on your Durham property. For instance, if you do not have the necessary skills, it might be hard to discover when your home heating and air conditioning system becomes infested by mold. Since the humidifier releases water vapor in an attempt to improve indoor air quality, it is common for such incidents.

If you overuse your humidifier without subjecting it to regular maintenance, the damp conditions may favor mold growth. Our IICRC trained SERVPRO technicians have the expertise to check whether your humidifier is infested and do the necessary cleaning. Failing to address such situations may cause health effects.

Using appropriate protective gear when offering mold cleanup services guarantees the safety of our team. It is common to see our experts in face masks, goggles, and rubber gloves. The reasoning is to avoid inhaling, touching, and ingesting the spores.

If the growth is on your wooden cabinets or furniture, we can suck up the loose spores through HEPA vacuuming. When the mold is deep, we can sand it and use EPA-approved solutions to clean the surfaces. We dispose of the contaminants according to the IICRC and local regulations.

Call SERVPRO of North Durham at (919) 467-0880 for effective mold remediation services. Our IICRC-certified technicians are Faster to Any Size Disaster and can be relied upon for immediate water, fire, and mold removal services.

Protection from Further Damage Before Fire Restoration Begins in Durham

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire damage restoration services are second to none. Call now for the help you need.

Why are board-up services part of fire restoration service by SERVPRO in Durham?

It is common for windows, doors, and roofs to be compromised during a fire. The fire department may have to break down doors to gain access and punch holes in the roof to reach the attic to quell a fire. The heat from the fire may break your windows as well.

Part of the fire restoration service offered by SERVPRO in Durham includes board-up and roof-tarp installation to protect your home from rodents, the environment, and physical protection. We can provide emergency protection of your home to prevent additional damage while your insurance adjuster is assessing the damage to your home or business.

Also, SERVPRO offers the following services:

  • Safety, inspection, and fire damage review
  • Removal of water, chemicals, and drying
  • Removal of unsalvageable odor-causing materials
  • we clean all surfaces such as walls, ceilings, and countertops of soot and smoke
  • We clean, disinfect, and sanitize all salvageable contents and structures.
  • Our team also completes minor repairs, e.g., carpet and drywall replacement and painting.

Contact SERVPRO of North Durham for fire restoration service to Durham and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (919) 467-0880.

Bathroom Mold removal in Durham

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

If you find mold in your house contact SERVPRO immediately. Our certified technicians will come with professional equipment to get the job done.

Mold Inspections, Remediations, and Removal in Durham Homes

Durham was established in 1849 with a railway depot built on land donated by Bartlett S Durham, incorporated in 1869. Durham is considered part of the Raleigh-Durham-Cary statistical area with a population of over 2 million people. NC Central University and Duke University are located within the city.

Notable sites within the city in addition to the two universities, including 

  • Sarah P. Duke Gardens
  • Museum of Life and Science, 
  • Durham Bulls Athletic Park
  • Cameron Indoor Stadium
  • Durham Performing Arts Center, 
  • Duke Lemur Center
  • Eno River State Park
  • American Tobacco Historic District
  • Duke Homestead and Tobacco Factory, 
  • Carolina Theater and 
  • Bennett Place.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Visited by more than 400,00 visitors every year, the gardens cover 55 acres, offering specialized gardens free of charge, 365 days a year. There have been some restrictions during current health concerns. Visitors should check ahead of time before visiting the gardens for opening hours. 

Duke Gardens got its start in 1935 with a gift of $20,000 from Sarah P Duke. More than 100 flower beds were planted. Today there are four distinct areas:

  • Historic Gardens
  • Roney Fountain
  • H.L. Blomquist Garden of Native Plants
  • W.L Culberson Asiatic Arboretum
  • Doris Duke Center Gardens and 
  • Charlotte Brody Discovery Garden

There are over 5 miles of pathways and walks throughout the gardens. Many visitors enjoy visiting the park throughout the year, enjoying the changing vistas as the seasons change.

Eno River State Park

Located just 15 minutes from Durham, the state park offers almost 30 miles of trails along the Eno River. There is backcountry camping available for individuals and groups. All supplies and equipment must be carried in and out. Kayaking and canoeing are permitted when there is sufficient water flow to support these activities. Visitors enjoy picnicking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking the trails.

American Tobacco Historic District

The American Tobacco District comprises 14 buildings that trace back to North Carolina’s tobacco industry dating from the 1870s to the 1950s. The American Tobacco Company Manufacturing Plant is included in the National Register of Historic Places. The entire area was redeveloped beginning in 2001 and now is a much-visited tourist, cultural, and entertainment area. 

The American Tobacco Historic District is located close to hotels and restaurants, with five venues nearby. 

There are also several attractions nearby. For example, the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, the Durham Performing Arts Center, and several others are also within walking distance. There are many places to grab a drink and something to eat for visitors and residents to enjoy.

Attic Mold Removal Caused by Bad Bathroom Exhaust Fan in Durham

Bathrooms naturally generate a great deal of humidity from hot showers and long baths. Exhaust fans are installed to remove some of the moisture and exhaust it to the outdoors. A faulty exhaust fan can cause mold growth in the bathroom, and broken exhaust pipes routed through the attic also can cause mold to grow in the attic.

SERVPRO provides mold inspection, remediation, and mold removal services to Durham area residents. We can inspect the bathroom area and check the attic for signs of mold infestations. Also, our services include:

  • Clean all surfaces to remove mold spores
  • Remove damaged materials that have absorbed moisture
  • Dry all surfaces and structure
  • Minor repairs, including broken exhaust pipe repair

Call SERVPRO of North Durham for mold removal in Durham and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (919) 467-0880.

We Are The Leader In Durham Flood Damage Restoration

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Don’t delay dealing with the excess water in your flooded home. Contact team SERVPRO to assess and start the water removal and drying processes.

Why Durham Residents prefer Professional Restoration Services to Deal with Flood Damage

Removing excessive quantities of water from your property is a task that can take several days or weeks. There are many factors to consider during the restoration procedure that can have a seismic influence on the eventual cost of your claim. These factors can include the accurate assessment of water migration, as well as secondary damages like rot or mold growth.

Most homeowners use professional services to deal with a flood damage situation in Durham because of the benefits of doing so outweigh the cons. Making a full recovery can help to give a homeowner peace of mind as well as preventing harm, causing elements further down the line. SERVPRO flood removal services are here to protect your home by removing water as well as conducting thorough drying procedures to reduce secondary harm.

While pumping standing water out of a property is achievable within a few hours, the drying process tends to take longer. Residual moisture can become absorbed by upholstery or seep into cracks and cavities in the home. Often, this residual moisture is the culprit for mold growth, unpleasant odors, or discoloration of paintwork. SERVPRO act comprehensively during the first service to ensure problems are kept to a minimum after flood damage.

Our chief weapon against residual moisture is truck-mounted extraction units. These devices can pull moisture from carpets, rugs, and upholstery by combining heating and vacuum elements. We can attach wands of different weights to guarantee consistently high efficiency. Properties with high ceilings may need a smaller drying zone. SERVPRO can attach hoses to rapid air movers inside a drying tent for concentrated evaporation. A thorough assessment of your home can be conducted before beginning work.

Vast amounts of water can be stressful as well as inconvenient. While drying times last, we do our utmost to ensure you can get on with your everyday lives. Contact SERVPRO of North Durham at (919) 467-0880.

Tips to Avoid Mold Damage in Homes in Gorman

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

Mold quickly multiplies. SERVPRO can locate the moisture source and remediate your mold damage.

Call a Mold Remediation Team in Gorman if You Suspect Mold

Mold can grow for a while in a Gorman home before its homeowner notices it. Once it becomes visible, the best course of action is to call a professional restoration team. Even before you see mold on your walls, you might encounter discoloration in ceiling tiles or a musty odor when you enter the area. It is better to be proactive and call the experts instead of waiting for a full-blown mold infestation.

In Gorman, a mold damage assessment is possible thanks to SERVPRO and our certified team of experts. We train with leaders in the water restoration industry to learn the latest techniques and advances in mold damage restoration. Despite do-it-yourself solutions you may find on the internet, it is best to invite us into your home and let us determine if mold is present, what type of mold it is, and the best course of action to remove it.

Mold can have adverse health effects for you and your family, which is why you want to avoid its growth as much as possible. At its most basic level, try to limit excess humidity from dripping appliances and pipes and be vigilant of any leaking windows or ceilings. Should you find mold growing, there are some steps you can take to control it:

  • Avoid cross-contamination by staying outside of affected areas
  • Limit air circulation by turning off ventilation and fans
  • Call an expert team like SERVPRO to get it under control
  • Do not touch the mold or apply homemade cleaning solutions to it; let our IICRC trained experts handle it

SERVPRO of North Durham is available by calling (919) 467-0880 whenever you need us. Our techs strive to provide the best services and leave your home “Like it never even happened.”

What Areas of a Durham Property are Most Susceptible to Flood Damage?

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Storm flooding can quickly cause water damage. Contact SERVPRO for water removal and remediation services.

SERVPRO Techs Have Training and Experience Handling All Types of Storm Damage in Durham Homes

The Durham area experiences heavy rains, hurricanes, and tropical storms throughout the year. All of these weather events can cause various types of storm damage that affect local properties and contents. 

There are various ways that flood damage can affect a Durham home. SERVPRO technicians have extensive training and certification to handle the restoration services required by this type of home damage. The lowest levels of a structure, either a crawlspace or a basement, tend to bear the brunch of floodwater when it enters a house. SERVPRO technicians have the training to handle these issues, including early actions such as: 

  • Inspection of the property to identify target areas for restoration 
  • Tarping roofs, blocking windows, and other temporary repairs to inhibit water from entering the property
  • Removal of home contents during the mitigation as needed

High winds that accompany these storms can damage shingles and roofing components, the result being water enters the attic. This situation often continues until the homeowner notices a wet spot on the ceiling or water actively dripping into the room. When this type of damage happens, SERVPRO technicians can quickly extract the water and use their specialized vacuums to collect the fiberglass insulation for cleaning and sanitizing for reuse if possible. In cases where the water has been entering the structure for a period, the inspection conducted by SERVPRO techs includes looking for signs of a mold infestation. When working on basements or crawl spaces, the techs can recommend to homeowners actions such as waterproofing or encapsulation to halt the damage from the continued entrance of water. 

SERVPRO of North Durham at (919) 467-0880 restores Durham properties that have any amount of flood damage. The techs arrive quickly and clean up the water, so it is "Like it never even happened."

Experienced Professionals Care for Various Fire-Damaged Materials in Gorman Homes

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of North Durham help with your many fire-damaged materials after a fire.

The type of material affected requires different cleaning practices in fire-damaged Gorman properties. 

SERVPRO professionals understand the magnitude of post-fire loss effects in homes and businesses. Migrating particles and smoke damage can ruin installed materials without swift action and mitigation solutions provided by our fast-responding technicians. 

Cleaning Carpeted Floors 

Fire damage restoration for Gorman homes means addressing how the fire has impacted installed building materials in your house. Carpets are a common staple and one that soot particles and smoke damage can readily affect. Cleaning these flooring elements is possible with one of several potential options, including:

  • Conditioning
  • Hot Water Extraction
  • Deluxe Bonnet Cleaning

Cleaning Wood Surfaces and Fixtures

Wood can be a wild variable in fire restoration, primarily because of different types and applications. Soot and smoke damage on these materials requires us to work quickly to prevent the destruction of these exposed elements when acidic soot compositions etch the finish or varnish of finished wood surfaces. Wood créme cleaners are non-abrasive products that do not overwhelm damaged wood with moisture threats. 

Cleaning Tile Floors and Backsplashes

Tiles can exist in several areas of your house but are traditionally installed as kitchen or bathroom flooring, as well as accents to the walls of these rooms in a backsplash fashion. When fire damages exist, soot can cover the tile face and get into the grouted joints of the tile. Cleaning includes strong alkaline cleaners for the tile faces and solutions like muriatic acid for cleaning grout. 

With so many building materials and contents present in every fire-damaged home that our SERVPRO of North Durham assists, we must come prepared for various restoration approaches. Our experienced restoration professionals have effective mitigation and cleaning methods to return homes to preloss condition fast. Give us a call today at (919) 467-0880.

What Makes SERVPRO a Strong Choice for Mold Remediation in Durham Homes?

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

It is imperative to handle mold appropriatly at the first sign. Call SERVPRO of North Durham

Overcoming mold in Durham properties should be fast and efficient. 

Considering the damage that mold colonies can do to homes and businesses, there is no room for delay in beginning effective remediation. Our experienced team of remediators has the experience, equipment, and knowledge to identify mold threats and begin removing active colonies. 

We're Faster To Any Size Disaster

While there might be several mold removal companies in Durham, not all of them are made from the same foundation of experience and customer service. SERVPRO of North Durham has become a trusted name in mold removal and remediation solutions, and much of this has to do with our fast response to emergencies. With a Green Fleet of service vehicles ready to mobilize 24/7, we have professionals at your doorstep when you need it most. 

Effective Remediation Practices for Damage of All Types

Our SERVPRO professionals recognize that not all damage situations are the same, so restoring mold colonization in one property differs from the other. We choose among several restoration and remediation strategies to provide the most custom recovery options that your home might need, including:

Is Controlled Demolition Possible? 

Our general contractor license is one of the remaining advantages to considering SERVPRO for the remediation and recovery of your damaged home. This allows us to complete controlled demolition, repairs, and reconstruction services as needed after mold damage harms the property. We can quickly transition to build-back services after remediation. 

Mold is not uncommon, making it vital for homeowners to have an effective and trusted solution when microbial threats develop in their residences. As leading remediation professionals for the area, our SERVPRO of North Durham provides effective removal solutions and damage repairs "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (919) 467-0880. 

How to Succeed With Water Damage Remediation After a Situation in Durham

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

You can count on our professionals with state of the art equipment to thoroughly dry your property so you can return safely after a water incident.

When Durham Property Owners Arrive Home to Water Damage 

This is the time of year for making holiday travel plans, and one thing no homeowner is planning on is coming home to water damage. 

If you arrive home to water damage in your Durham home, extraction and drying needs to begin as rapidly as possible. Unfortunately, the longer the water remains on-site, the more it degrades. After 48 hours, even water from your supply lines gets handled as a class three biohazard. 

Why SERVPRO?

The certified technicians know how to handle all types of water spills, from clean water to water containing sewage and debris. To maintain safety during the cleanup, they test the water to determine the nature of any bacteria or contaminants present, so they choose the correct cleaning agents to ensure the home returns to sanitary standards for habitation.

Common Issues After Water Damage of This Type

When SERVPRO technicians arrive at the residence, they begin water extraction immediately. Portable pumps remove water quickly, and when a large area of the home receives the effects of water spills, they utilize truck-mounted extraction units to remove water. 

Due to prolonged exposure, the delamination of tile flooring is a prevalent problem. Depending on the results of testing the water, the carpet may have restoration potential. If too much time elapses, the technicians cut the carpet into strips and dispose of it, so the floor and subfloor get dried completely. 

Once water breaches the flooring, this is especially damaging if the water damage happens in an upper story or over a basement. The ceiling below and floor joists in between levels require drainage and airflow assistance, such as weep holes drilled or removal of ceiling tiles to ensure the area dries properly. Sheetrock readily wicks water, and controlled demolition tactics to open up the walls for drying are necessary. After drying, SERVPRO technicians apply any needed odor control to ensure no musty scents remain in the home.

When water damage happens, call SERVPRO of North Durham at (919) 467-0880. The emergency response team is ready 24/7 to make the water damage in your property "Like it never even happened."

What is the Best Way to Clean Sheetrock in Need of Mold Damage Mitigation in Durham?

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can be an issue in our area. SERVPRO has the know-how to restore your home.

SERVPRO Performs Professional Mold Damage Remediation in Durham Homes and Businesses

Many surfaces can get cleaned for reuse after professional Durham mold remediation. However, one requirement is that the article needs to be able to withstand the cleaning method. Porous objects such as sheetrock are poorly suited for the deep cleaning necessary to eradicate visible colonies. 

SERVPRO brings professional mold damage mitigation to Durham properties. The interior of sheetrock with visible mold growth is often too deteriorated for any restoration. The best outcome, in this case, comes from removing the building materials and bringing the interior humidity levels under 50%, which makes life unsustainable for mold growth. 

The technicians carefully inspect the property to determine the reason for the mold infestation. Mold is a symptom of a more significant issue at work within the property. Frequently seen problems that can lead to an infestation include unresolved water damage from leaks or poor ventilation retaining humid air instead of expelling it. 

Common Mold Removal Methods

  • Hand scraping and removing dried matter with hand vacs with HEPA filtration
  • The use of soda blasting
  • Sponge blasting on surfaces that cannot tolerate soda blasting removal 

SERVPRO of North Durham at (919) 467-0880 brings compassion and professionalism to every mold damage mitigation job in Durham properties. The technicians are available 24/7 to make the damage to the home, "Like it never even happened."

Gorman Families Can Challenge their Imagination with a Visit to the Museum of Life + Science.

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

Take the family to the Museum of Life + Science to explore and learn, while SERVPRO brings your home back from damages.

Just a Few Steps from Gorman, Enjoy a Visit that will Feed your Brain.

Safety and health are still of concern to people in Gorman, and engaging the mind in fun activities plays a role in keeping the mind healthy. The Museum of Life + Science in nearby Durham offers a mentally-stimulating visit suitable for all family members. Updated information on which exhibits are open at any given time is available on their website, but here are a few attractions you can anticipate-

  • Insectarium- a display of invertebrates and exotic insects from all over the world
  • Hideaway Woods- Sculptures and tree-houses are included in this two-acre expanse, ready to be explored.

  • Earth Moves-a sandstone cave full of interactive activities for explorers of all ages

Challenge your imagination for an afternoon, and enjoy learning things you never knew before. Just as the Museum of Life + Science is there for its patrons, so is SERVPRO at your service when stormwater removal services become necessary. Our trajectory in restoration services speaks for itself, as does the expertise of our team.

Protect the health of your mind and your home by calling SERVPRO of North Durham at (919) 467-0880. 

You can count on us to leave your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Support the Durham Community by Volunteering

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Join TABLE in giving back to the community. Volunteer with others in the community helping prepare food for the MLK Day of Service in Orange County.

TABLE Invites Durham Volunteers to Help during Martin Luther King Weekend

Volunteers in Durham have had a tough time volunteering during the current health crisis, but TABLE is inviting them for a food packaging marathon. The goal is to pack over 700 bags of food to serve the Orange County area as part of MLK Day of Service. What do you need to know?

  • TABLE is a non-profit organization focused on hunger relief and nutrition education
  • Social distancing guidelines will be enforced for the safety of all participants.
  • Participants must be 18 or older.

Doing good for our community is at the core of what TABLE does every day. At SERVPRO, we recognize and value the role we play as individuals and as business owners, which is why we are always prepared and ready to help. When fire damage threatens our customers' livelihood, we work expediently to remove soot and smoke and minimize the event’s negative impact.

SERVPRO of North Durham is made up of the best in the restoration industry. Our staff and equipment give you peace of mind, and you can be assured that you and your home or business are in the best hands. Call us at (919) 467-0880 and invite us into your home. We are committed to leaving your house, “Like it never even happened.”

Durham is the Perfect Marriage of Southern Hospitality with High-Tech Industry

1/3/2021 (Permalink)

Call the experts at SERVPRO for any remediation or mitigation efforts needed in your home or business property. We are faster to any size disaster.

Durham has Something to Offer All Residents and Visitors Who Venture to Explore It.

Durham is among the 100 most populous cities in the United States and on the top list for North Carolina. It owes its name to Bartlett S. Durham, who in 1849 donated some land to establish a railway depot. Located in the Piedmont region between the coastal plain and the Appalachian Mountains, it borders the Eno River to add to the city's natural beauty. Often grouped with Raleigh and Chapel Hill, the greater metropolitan area is often referred to as the Research Triangle.

In 1869, the North Carolina General Assembly recognized Durham as a town, and Durham County was ratified in 1881. The tobacco trade is much responsible for the region's growth, and Durham became the original site for the American Tobacco Company. The textile industry also played a crucial role in Durham's development, even though today medical and research companies are at the core of business in this bustling metropolitan area.

The Occoneechi and the Eno were the original inhabitants of what we now know as Durham. They farmed the land, and the Great Indian Trading Path allowed for trading and transportation through Durham. Starting in the early 1700s, the English settled the territory, and plantations were established. African slaves worked the land, and Southern traditions became closely intertwined with cultural elements brought into the area by laborers. The arrival of the North Carolina Railroad became a catalyst for growth in the city, and some 20 years later, Durham played an essential role in the American Civil War.  One cannot understand Durham without considering the beginning of the American Tobacco Company, which J.B. Duke started in 1890 through the merger of several tobacco manufacturers. 

To understand the company's importance, it is enough to know that it was one of the 12 founding corporations to join the Dow Jones Industrial Average in 1896. In 1911, the company fractioned into several spin-off companies, but it continued to exist until 1994 when it sold its operations to Brown & Williamson. In the height of tobacco use, it carried such brands as Lucky Strike, and it prospered for decades. Not only was tobacco growth significant for North Carolina, but the ancillary services such as packaging and machine-rolling cigarettes also provided employment beyond Durham's boundaries.

The black community also established itself close to the center of town, and some of the most distinguished black-owned businesses began in Durham. Most notable, North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company and others such as Mechanics & Farmers Bank were housed on "Black Wall Street," the popular nickname for Parrish Street. Halfway through the 20th century, manufacturing activities in the textile industry and tobacco companies began to suffer, leading to their eventual demise later on.  

Universities in Durham

The foresight of some of Durham's oldest residents can be held responsible for the area's stability today. 

In the 1950s, Duke University, the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University-Raleigh negotiated the purchase of land in Durham County with the idea of developing an educational establishment to build capacity for industries in the area. 

This association gave way to the first "Science Park" in the nation to great success. Its tradition of reputable higher education continues with the presence of –

  • Duke University- recognized as one of the top ten universities in the nation
  • Wake Forest- located in Winston-Salem and among the top 100 universities
  • University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill- also considered among the top 30 universities in national universities
  • Durham Technical Community College- focuses on technical programs and associate degrees

Several other colleges and technical institutions complement the intellectual capital being cultivated in the Durham area.

Durham Today

The Durham Performing Arts Center is emblematic of the community's effort towards the revitalization of the downtown area. The need to redevelop some historic tobacco buildings prompted incentives for restaurants, businesses, and entertainment venues to settle in Durham. 

Alongside, housing complexes and a welcoming environment have prompted many to relocate to the city. The city's diversity also plays a vital role in attracting investors and entrepreneurs from the tech industry, health sciences, and financial firms.

Culturally, Durham welcomes musicians and performers with open arms. Jazz, blues, and on-stage performances are typical in Durham, as are visits to museums and arts organizations. Record labels have also made downtown its home, and artistic talent can be found virtually everywhere.

As expected, collegiate sports are a big focus for Durham residents, with Duke University's various teams leading the way. Athletic parks and recreation areas serve as the backdrop for sports activities from pee-wee baseball to professional teams.

Like many other southern cities, Durham can get hot and humid during the summer while reaching cold temperatures in winter. However, the area avoids extreme temperatures making it a pleasant place to live year-round.

Restoration Companies in Durham

Durham exhibits the remarkable coexistence between older traditional structures and newer construction. Even though the original tobacco district was renovated, you can still feel and see the architectural elements typical of their time. Aging structures can pose a challenge for some home and business owners whenever older pipes break and allow water to leak onto hardwood floors and threaten structural elements.

SERVPRO is professional in its approach to water damage in your dwelling. We study and apply the best practices industry to achieve the restoration of your home or office with minimal disruption to your daily life. Our industry-grade equipment and expert staff are a phone call away and ready to lead the restoration process in full.

SERVPRO of North Durham is reachable around the clock by calling us at (919) 467-0880. Once we dispatch our staff, you can rest assured that the best team is on your side to protect you. Our goal, like yours, is to leave your place, "Like it never even happened."



Release the Stress of the Holidays with Guided Yoga for Durham Residents

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is looking forward to seeing the community participating in the open-air instruction sessions for yoga.

Appreciate the open-air instruction of yoga poses designed for all levels.

There is no doubt that the year's final months can be great stress, especially with additional burdens or worries that have come from this year alone. Shake off the stresses with so many others in a safe, open environment of Duke Park for Sunday Morning Yoga Sessions. For those unfamiliar, Duke Park is located on W Knox in Durham.

Those interested can secure their spot for the December 13th, 2020 yoga session online for 11.00. The groups are led by the experienced and certified Steph Andrea. Tickets to the event and subsequent Sunday sessions can happen through the website for Eventbrite or by contacting the Ametarea Studio sponsoring the gathering at (919) 896-2662.

If a unique yoga pose shows you warning signs of mold growth you could not usually see, let our SERVPRO of North Durham team help with mold inspection for Durham residences. We have experienced remediators to help make it "Like it never even happened," as well. Call us at (919) 467-0880.

How is SERVPRO Prepared for Disasters in My Durham Home?

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals are trained to handle all types of damage with the equipment and experience to restore your property to pre-damage condition.

With a fast response and experienced master technicians on our roster, we have the expertise and the ability to recover damaged properties “Like it never even happened.”

From Durham to Gorman, we have thousands of homes and businesses throughout the greater Metropolitan area that depend on the fast and reliable response of our SERVPRO team in a crisis. With master certified restorers on our roster in each of the primary niches that we serve, we can offer our customers a level of experience and confidence in the work that we do that provides peace of mind. We are locally owned and operated, meaning that the technicians dispatched to help with your disaster share these same communities with you. We are neighbors helping neighbors. This family-oriented style of operation and customer care has allowed us to become one of the top 100 franchises in the country.

Fire

It is often a considerable challenge to manage fire loss events that happen in Durham homes and businesses. After extinguishment, professional restoration teams need to reach your home as quickly as possible to begin sufficient mitigation work to reduce the spread and severity of fire loss effects throughout the property. This also often requires you to manage information and documentation for damage claims made to your insurance company. Our professionals can help to provide the appropriate documentation to your insurance adjuster to ensure that there are a few delays in approval as possible.

What Are Emergency Services? 

Protecting your property often means beginning emergency services for your Durham structure as soon as possible. Between In-house contractors and master certified fire restoration technicians, we have the experience and confidence to provide your home with efficient and effective recovery tactics. Emergency services reduce how destructive fire losses can become, and can involve both repairs and cleaning, such as:

  • Content Management
  • Controlled Demolition
  • Board Up
  • Tarping
  • Debris Removal

What is Expected from Mitigation and Restoration Phases? 

Knowing what to expect from technicians when we get to work in your Durham or Rougemont property can help you appreciate the varying levels of fire restoration. Mitigation is one of the blanket terms used to describe multiple tasks explicitly designed to address pressing damage concerns, including soiling, soot, airborne contaminants, structural weaknesses, and other immediate obstacles.

Water

Because water losses are among the most common needs for a restoration team in Durham and its surrounding areas, we stay prepared for this inevitable loss incident by keeping trailers stocked with recovery tools. There are hundreds of causes for water loss incidents in homes and businesses throughout our service area, making our union of general contractors and qualified restoration technicians vital to the recovery of properties. Our emergency services in mitigation focus on providing effective solutions for both of these fronts.

What Tools Best Remove Standing Water? 

Standing water could be a substantial concern for Durham properties because it allows water migration to happen quickly. Absorption into materials like flooring, sealing materials, wall systems, and other sensitive areas can move water from one area of the property to another over a brief period. These concerns become challenging to address the longer they persist, so it is vital to begin water removal techniques with our team's arrival. Several extraction tools used in these efforts include:

  • Submersible Pumps
  • Truck-Mount Pumps
  • Light Wands
  • Carpet Wands
  • Wet Vacuums

What Efficient Drying Solutions Exist for Durham Homes? 

As with any water loss incident, drying your Durham home is the primary focus of water recovery after a disaster. No matter what areas of your property have become affected, there are specific tools designed to address lingering moisture and dampness where it is found. Air movers are often the foundation of the drying effort, allowing us to focus blasts of heated air at specific targets to promote evaporative drying as efficiently as possible.

Commercial 

While any disaster or emergency could impact your Durham business, fire and water losses are often among the most common call-outs that our professionals must address for commercial properties in the region. Our reliability in these areas can get attributed to our preparedness for these disasters with pre-stocked trailers and technicians available 24/7.

Are there Benefits to An Emergency READY Profile Plan (ERP)?

We ensure that our fast response to disasters allows us to reach your property within hours of the first notice of loss. Those who have already completed the free Emergency READY Profile Plan are at a more significant advantage because our technicians already understand the layout of your structure, the location of specific shutoffs, and other essential details to protect what matters most.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned 

Deep cleaning your business has become a popular request in recent months following the devastation of viruses like COVID-19 on Durham businesses. The entire state of North Carolina saw the pandemic sweep through our cities, requiring business owners to take a closer look at the efforts they were taking to provide a sanitary environment for their staff and customers. Our newest defensive cleaning program ensures that you are getting the top tier cleaning approaches, products, and techniques for your business whenever necessary, including:

  • Applying Disinfectant
  • Surface Cleaning
  • Antibacterial Treatment
  • Air Quality Control

Storm 

Being a coastal state, Durham residents have experienced multiple hurricane-level storms and devastating violent weather events in the past decade alone. Each of these adverse situations can sweep through the area and destroy multiple structures, leaving many homes and businesses vulnerable simultaneously.

Water Removal Solutions for Flooded Properties

Flooding is an unfortunate inevitability for many Durham homes and businesses after severe storm systems pass through the region. Standing water can be a substantial concern in structures, specifically because of how quickly absorption can happen in high permeability materials like wood plank flooring or drywall. Removing standing water involves several extraction tools, including wet vacuums, submersible pumps, and other specialty tools.

Drying and Reconstruction 

Drying your Durham home after a flood loss incident is only part of the solution to the problem your structure faces. Often, flood damage situations require some degree of repair or reconstruction to return the property to its original condition. With a team of in-house contractors available with our responding technicians, we can perform these repairs, and full scale build back, as required.

No matter what disaster your home or office faces, our SERVPRO of North Durham team can help. Call us today at (919) 467-0880.

How To Fix a Flooded Basement

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Durham, NC

How To Fix a Flooded Basement

When you experience a basement flood in Durham, NC, you may want to do all you can to get your business back to normal as quickly as possible. The longer the water sits on surfaces, the more damage it can do. Working with an emergency disaster response team that is faster to any size disaster can make the process smoother and less stressful for all involved. Knowing a few things to do can help you get through the process with confidence.

1. Call a Professional
Your insurance coverage is likely to include water damage from a basement flood. You should contact your agent and a professional remediation team. SERVPRO usually works directly with your insurance company to ensure a smooth process for you.

2. Stay Out of the Water
If you can safely do so, stop the source of the water by turning off the water to the area. If more severe flooding has occurred, turn off the electricity to the area. Do not enter the water unless you have to and always wear rubber boots or walk on something above the water. Never enter a flooded area with water above the electrical outlets. You may need the fire department to turn off the power when it gets higher than the outlets.

3. Work With Your Restoration Company
When the remediation team arrives on site they will most likely assess the damage and begin the water extraction process. They may use industrial blowers to dry the area quickly, which helps keep mold from forming. They will usually repair or remove any damaged structural items. As the last step, your remediation team may replace damaged items such as carpet or drywall.
Finding that you have a basement flood can be a difficult situation. Knowing that there are teams of people that can help with the entire process may give you the confidence to get your business back to normal as quickly as possible.

5 Common Questions About Mold Removal

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Mold removal can be a frustrating concern to Chester, NC, commercial property owners

Mold removal can be a frustrating concern to Chester, NC, commercial property owners, especially if they've never had to deal with the issue before. The good news is that you don't have to tackle mold growth on your own. Commercial cleanup and mediation professionals have training and supplies to safely and thoroughly deal with the problem. It's not unusual to have questions about the process; here are some of the most common:

What is Mold?

Molds are fungi that thrive in a variety of environments, both inside and outside, but colonies are most likely to blossom in warm, humid conditions. Spores increase and spread mold as they are carried on gusts of air, people's feet, and animals.

How did it get in the building?

Spores may be carried in through the air conditioning and heating system, or it may travel in on the clothes and shoes of the people who live and work in the building. Once inside, the spores establish colonies wherever they have access to oxygen and moisture.

How do I know there's mold?

You may have a problem before you ever get a hint that colonies exist in the basement or behind the walls. Unpleasant odors and dark stains that appear on walls, floors, or ceilings are indications of mold growth. As soon as you suspect its presence, contact professionals for mold removal.

Why is it important to remove mold?

When left alone, mold can spread quickly, eating its way along elements of the building, including drywall, insulation, carpeting, and most other materials used in the creation and decoration of a building.

How long does it take to remove mold?

The length of each project is affected by many factors such as how widely it has spread, the source of moisture, and the type of mold. Some types of mold, such as black mold, may require special methods of disinfection and containment.
Mold removal is just the first step in correcting this issue. The next step involves correcting the leaks or damages that lead to moisture where it shouldn't have been. Finally, you'll need to focus on mold prevention. Chester, NC, professionals may provide valuable preventative steps.

Assessing the Extent of Mold Damage

3/29/2020 (Permalink)

Mold testing in Bahama, NC

You might suspect you have mold in your home in Bahama, NC, for a number of reasons. You have had water damage in your home, a common precondition for mold growth. You smell a musty odor, often an indication of mold. You see a dark green or black growth on walls, ceilings or tiles. At this point you should have a mold assessment completed by a professional. This will lead to the most reliable results, and can tell you how extensive the mold problem is and even what types of mold are present. A qualified mold remediation company can recommend a course of action that will contain the mold and stop its spread.

Mold Testing

It is possible to do mold testing on your own by purchasing a mold kit. If you go this route, keep the following in mind:

  • The mold samples will have to be sent out to a lab
  • You could have to do multiple tests to get accurate results
  • The results just show a snapshot in time
  • You should test several areas of the home

It may be hard to get an accurate assessment of the mold problem on your own, as you will have to interpret the results. You probably will not learn what types of mold are present and if you have black mold. Also, mold is present in small amounts nearly everywhere; this means you will likely get a positive result no matter the situation.

Mold Cleanup

Unlike the presence of mildew, a less serious problem, mold should be cleaned up through a professional cleaning process. After the mold assessment, the next steps include mold containment, mold removal, and cleaning and sanitizing. Specialized equipment such as air dryers and scrubbers, vacuums and effective cleaning agents will be employed to get mold under control. Trained technicians have the ability to restore or replace items that have been affected by mold.

How can I protect my business during an outbreak?

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help you 24/7/365

How can I protect my business during an outbreak like Coronavirus?

With the recent outbreak of the Coronavirus, many people are scrambling to ensure their property is protected. There is a consistent rise in business owners/parents/caregivers interest to ensure that facilities are taking every precaution to prevent any widespread outbreaks. In this article, we will cover what  the Coronavirus is, how you can protect yourself, and how SERVPRO can provide assistance with cleaning and disinfection. 

So, What is the notorious Coronavirus and how does it spread? 

Coronaviruses are zoonotic, which means they are transmitted between animals and people. This virus can cause a variety of symptoms and can lead to a more serious prognosis when introduced to infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Once transmitted to humans, other humans can spread the virus through respiration such as coughing and sneezing. 

How can I protect myself, my family, my employees, and my customers?

Pathogens can rarely be seen or detected with the naked eye; but surfaces, toys, furniture, door knobs, etc are often carriers for communicable disease. When it comes to decontaminating surfaces and airborne Infectious diseases, it’s important to call on a professional that is trained & certified in biohazard remediation including the disinfecting of infectious disease. Surface cleaning is not enough these days, and unfortunately the average consumer does not fully understand the products and the chemical components behind the products intended usage. So many products we use and are familiar with are not used properly, and thus get rendered ineffective which is not the case.

How can SERVPRO help during the Coronavirus?

SERVPRO of North Durham offers thorough cleaning and disinfection services for schools, hospitals, and commercial properties. We have a passion for the prevention of illness through proper cleaning and sanitization. Our crews are always ready to go in their PPE to ensure the buildings in our community are safe to enter. 

Our disinfectants & virucides are EPA, FDA, and OSHA compliant, they have a very low toxicity rating, and are effective against the most common disease and odor-causing organisms, including MRSA, HIV-1 (AIDS virus), Influenza A2, Avian Flu, VRE, TB, Herpes, to name a few. The CDC is recommending a labeled Hospital Grade disinfectant with claims against similar type organisms to COVID19. SERVPROXIDE has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to COVID19 on hard non-porous surfaces. This product can be used against COVID19 when used in accordance with the directions for use against Norovirus Feline Calicivirus** and Canine Parvovirus, Strain Cornell-780916, ATCC VR-2016** on hard, non-porous surfaces. In addition, SERVPROXIDE currently has EPA approved claims for Feline Coronavirus (Strain WSU 79-1683, ATCC VR 989**) and Canine Coronavirus (Strain 1-71, ATCC VR-809**). More product specific information can be obtained on the TDS & SDS.

Call SERVPRO of North Durham today to ensure you have a proper disease control prevention strategy moving forward to help support a healthy and safe atmosphere.(919) 467-0880

Durham Homeowner Needs Emergency Water Extraction, Fast? Call SERVPRO

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

Rapid Water Extraction Mitigates Damage--That's Why Call SERVPRO

Water Removal for Your Home in Durham

Water damage from your bathtub overflowing in your Durham home can be quite devastating, especially if it went unnoticed at first. Left long enough, and the room below the bathroom could wind up with a collapsed ceiling, making quite the mess of your home.
 
Once a disaster like this has occurred, you need water removal services for your Durham home and fast. Our SERVPRO technicians waste no time in getting to your residence once you call us for help, and we work thoroughly and quickly to prevent additional damages. It is not difficult to see why SERVPRO is the choice of so many homeowners after a water damage emergency.
 
Once we arrive at your home, we carefully inspect every aspect of the damaged areas. Our primary goal is to mitigate the water damage and restore your home. We first need to pump out any standing water if it is two or more inches deep using a portable, submersible device. SERVPRO techs check walls and floors under the damaged area for water and pump out as necessary.
 
A moisture meter is used to figure out how badly the water has penetrated floors, walls, carpeting, and ceilings. We also move and block furniture as needed. Water is extracted from hard surface flooring and carpets. If needed, we detach the carpet and extract water from the padding and floor underneath. A majority of the time, the pad needs to be removed and discarded to salvage the carpet with more rapid drying. Drying mats can be placed on hardwood flooring to draw out any residual moisture and water droplets.
 
Once we have extracted all the excess water possible, we need to dry your structure back out. Air movers are positioned to deliver a rapid airflow over wet surfaces. We base the number of air movers we use in the space based on recommendations from IICRC and experience. Some can produce a heated current which helps to evaporate the moisture swept off objects by the air movement allowing dehumidifiers to then capture and condense this water vapor.
 
When SERVPRO of North Durham comes to your home in Gorman, Rocky Knoll, or Chester to clean up a water damage emergency, you can trust you are getting a thorough and knowledgeable service. Contact us by dialing (919) 467-0880.

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We are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

We can help you be proactive, we are just one call away!

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – [SERVPRO of North Durham, (919) 467-0880

Our Professionals Can Save Your Flood Damaged Home In North Durham

10/26/2019 (Permalink)

Whenever you need us, night or day, we're ready to help.

SERVPRO is Here to Help During Your Flood Damage Emergency In North Durham

Heavy storms, hurricanes, or harsh winds can all cause flood damage to your North Durham home. It is essential to keep weather advisories in mind and be prepared for an emergency when it happens. In an area where heavy rains are known to cause flooding, it is wise to keep an emergency situation and supply kit. Additionally, the kit should include a home evacuation plan.

However, what if a storm causes minor flood damage to your North Durham home? Let's say that a fallen tree breaks a window off the side of your home and allows rainwater into your home during a storm. Let's say that the tree didn't damage the structure of your home outside of the window, and the water only entered from that one spot. The best thing you could do for your home in this situation is to call for help.

Here at SERVPRO, we're dedicated to helping people during their flood damage emergencies. Our motto is that We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, and we always try to stick to it. During a storm, weather conditions may slow our arrival. We may need to clear fallen trees, avoid flooded roadways, or get stuck in traffic, but we can press on until we get to your home.

In this scenario, when our technicians arrived at your home, we would first tackle the tree in your window. We could use a chainsaw to break it up and make sure that removing the tree doesn't cause more damage than it did when it fell. Once the tree has been removed, we could cover your window to limit exposure to the storm and keep water out of your home.

Once inside, our SERVPRO technicians could begin to use extractors in your living room to remove standing water. Extractors are particularly useful on carpets, upholstery, and drapes because they are capable of simultaneously drying the fabric as well as removing water. After cleaning up the debris, and removing the water, SERVPRO can put you in contact with a contractor who can install a new window for you.

If an intense storm creates damages in your home, never wait. Dial (919) 467-0880 to get in touch with SERVPRO of North Durham. Whenever you need us, night or day, we're ready to help.

For more about North Durham click here.

Why You Should Hire SERVPRO For All Types Of Remediation Needs In Durham

9/12/2019 (Permalink)

Whether your home is affected by flooding, fire, excess water or mold, contact SERVPRO right away for remediation after damage.

Call the Professionals at SERVPRO of North Durham For Help Today

There are many levels to restoration services for Durham homes. Fire and mold damage create unique challenges. Water damage occurs as a result of intense storms, plumbing failures, or fire extinguishing efforts. When any of these situations happen, it is vital to retain professional mitigation to avoid any further loss to the residence or possessions. 

Fire damage not only destroys Durham property and contents through heat but also leaves behind a strong odor that requires handling before repairs or reconstruction efforts begin. SERVPRO team members hold certifications as Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians. This training means they follow the best practices for turning around fire loss to your property quickly, and we have the expertise and equipment to handle specialized cleaning situations such as:

  •   Sometimes soot enters and spreads via the HVAC system, which requires a thorough cleaning of the ductwork.
  •   Using our waterless cleaner for handling smoke residue on stone, masonry, and brick
  •   Choosing the right cleaning techniques for different types of smoke residues. Improper cleaning may cause additional damage.

It is vital that residents know their home is safe and hygienic after fire debris cleanup and mitigation. We use equipment such as air scrubbers and hydroxyl generators as methods to eliminate soot particles and smoke odors from the house, so the residence is as clean as it smells.

Water damage in Durham homes is one of the most common issues homeowners face. Pipes break, with the majority happening in two areas of the house most often-the kitchen and bathroom. However, anywhere plumbing runs in the home has the potential to leak. Appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and toilets are another frequent reason SERVPRO technicians perform water extraction in homes. We have numerous kinds of water removal equipment, some for special applications such as removing excessive moisture from upholstery and carpeting, so they have more significant potential for restoration to their preloss conditions instead of inclusion as a water loss.

Locating water takes more than visuals. Depending on the surface we are scoping, SERVPRO's advanced moisture detection equipment finds water hidden under flooring and behind walls. The reason for fast water removal is two-fold. First, it lessens the damage to the structure and contents from exposure to excessive moisture, and second, it decreases drying time. After the property reaches drying goals, if residual water odors remain, we treat those to eradicate any musty smells left behind by the water.

In Durham, storm damage happens with little to no warning. The clock begins ticking on flood damage with secondary issues such as mold and foul odors setting up home if cleanup efforts do not start quickly enough. 

The first concern for SERVPRO is your safety. Only remain in a storm-damaged property if it is safe to do so. When a tree limb causes damage to a window or roof from high winds and rain enters the house, that type of water intrusion is a clean water spill. As long as water cleanup begins within 24 hours, it does not have a chance to progress to more severe types of water mitigation such as gray water (may contain bacteria) or black water (possibly contaminated with anything from bacteria, toxins or sewage).

When flash floods occur, primarily fueled by runoff, copious amounts of water have the potential to cause severe damage. Unless the water is from a storm surge, it tends to drain off quickly, leaving behind saturated items and wet building materials. Sheetrock wicks water rapidly due to the sandwich design with absorbent material. Once moisture enters, a breakdown occurs quickly and sheetrock buckles and warps in reaction. When SERVPRO certified Water Damage Restoration Technicians encounter damaged sheetrock, we try to leave as much of the structure intact as possible. We use moisture detection equipment to measure roughly six inches above the water line in the sheetrock and perform flood cuts, removing the damaged wall material.

Once we remove any debris left behind and complete water extraction on the property. SERVPRO technicians carefully scope the property to establish drying goals to bring the indoor humidity levels down and inhibit the growth of mold.

If items in the home require pack-out, we use either secure storage at our location or secure pod storage on-site. We catalog, photograph, and note the area the item came from, so after the completion of water cleanup efforts; there are no issues returning each item to the place it came from, and we provide the homeowner with a detailed list of any necessary repairs required to return the home to its preloss condition.

It is tough to find out your Durham home requires mold remediation. Whether it was just a musty smell or you found mold colonies growing in your home, SERVPRO has trained Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians (AMRT) that safely turn round mold damage to your home and possessions.

The key with mold remediation entails making the home inhospitable to mold growth. This phase of mitigation means lowering the indoor humidity to under 45% and taking away reasons for excessive moisture conditions developing such as a leak, poor drainage or something as minor as a malfunctioning exhaust fan porting humidity from showers into the attic instead of away from the property. 

We contain the areas with mold growth and carefully dry and remove the colonies. Once completed, all affected surfaces receive a wipedown with antimicrobial cleaners and areas where mold growth occurred get treated with sealers to inhibit the germination of spores and any return of the colonies.

Why SERVPRO? We know that any type of home disaster resulting in the need for restoration services feels overwhelming. We do everything possible to take the stress off homeowners and assist in dealing with the claims adjuster when needed. Our unique Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) has a list and value of the contents along with a detailed report including before and after photos of restoration efforts. This service helps homeowners expedite the claims filing process and provides proof of every item claimed as a loss.

When you need restoration services, SERVPRO of North Durham is local and available 24/7 at (919) 467-0880. Our certified technicians have the training and access to specialized equipment to make any home disaster, "Like it never even happened."

Click here to learn more about Durham.

SERVPRO Goes Room To Room To Fix Water Damage In Durham

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Durham Water Cleanup for Drapes and Belongings Are Done by SERVPRO

Durham Water Removal May Require Professional Help

Water damage happens very easily and can affect any room in your home. There are many causes of water damage, including floods or severe weather, a leaking roof, a damaged appliance, a broken pipe, or water from your garden. Because there are so many ways water can harm your home, at times, it may be impossible to tell which room might be affected. Water can get into any room of your home and cause damage and increased risk of mold growth. 
 
No matter where water damage occurs in your Durham home, SERVPRO is on hand to help out. We train our experienced IICRC-certified technicians to deal with a broad range of possible water damage situations. 
 
The remedy in every situation begins by removing as much water as possible. We use floor standing and truck mounted pumps and extraction equipment to get the visible water out of your home before drying begins. 
 
We tackle problems in your family room or den by using dehumidifiers, air movers, and specialty drying techniques to dry out waterlogged sofas, carpets, and even your favorite easy chair. We test for water under floors to make sure no patch is left wet. 
 
If you have a home office full of equipment or vital files and books, do not despair. SERVPRO can liaise with an experienced electronics vendor on your behalf to find out what can be salvaged after a severe water-damaging event. Our technicians can wipe down the casings of electronic devices only. Meanwhile, water damaged files and books are quickly frozen to prevent further damage and then freeze dried using state of the art techniques. These methodologies vary greater, depending on the extent of damage and value of the paper and soft articles and items.
 
We dry kitchen and laundry room floors using air movers and fans, and we use special equipment to test for hidden damp patches behind appliances or cabinets. 
 
Upstairs, we dry under carpets and beds and send drapes or other soft furnishings to our professional facilities for washing and drying. We remove baseboards and drill holes where necessary to dry behind and under wardrobes and bathroom cabinets, and do not worry – everything is patched up and restored “Like it never even happened.” 
 
Dehumidifiers and air movers can be used in any part of your home to encourage evaporation and reduce the amount of moisture present in the air. We monitor the drying situation at all times and use sensitive testing equipment to ensure every corner of your home is dry. 
 
No matter where water enters your home, SERVPRO of North Durham is on hand to help. Call us at (919) 467-0880 today for assistance.

More info on this city here.

Basement Cleanup Exposes Need For Professional Mold Remediation In Durham

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Remediation to Cleanup and Keep Out Mold in Durham--Try SERVPRO

SERVPRO is the Logical Solution for Mold Cleanup

Cleanups of the big storage areas in your home are never easy, but some circumstances make the job even more daunting. Uncovering unpleasant surprises like a well-established mold colony are overwhelming, usually bringing the cleanup to a halt. SERVPRO has the highly qualified technicians and cutting edge equipment to take care of a mold problem safely and efficiently. 
 
Your basement is your major storage area, and it is time to do some long-delayed sorting. When you pull the last row of boxes out of a corner, you discover a large area of mold damage. Sitting in your Durham kitchen a few minutes later you decide to weigh your options. You hear so many warnings about mold that you choose to call for professional assistance. We are ready to step in to manage the largest home mold problem within hours of your contacting our office. 
 
SERVPRO assembles a team of workers trained in the specific protocols developed by the Environmental Protection Agency to respond to your needs. You want the mold gone, but the remediation must be done carefully to industry standards for you and your family’s safety, and the well being of our crew, too. Removal of the source of the moisture and water is crucial to a successful remediation.
 
Our workers don personal protective gear and cordon off the area in the basement where you found mold. We use a negative pressure air scrubber to avoid any particles of the infestation from moving to other areas of your home. Access to your HVAC system should be blocked in the area during our work for the same reason. 
 
The next step is to remove the moldy material. This may include some of the boxes if colonies are growing on the cardboard, a favorite food source for the fungi. We stage the moldy items outside, bagged or covered for proper disposal. The foundation surfaces affected receive an antimicrobial treatment with SERVPRO recommended products, and additional debris on the floor and cross beams are removed with HEPA filter equipped vacuums. 
 
Resist the temptation to complete the sanitizing step as a do it yourself project or to augment our work with an “insurance” application of a homemade anti-mold solution. In particular, stay away from bleach solutions which merely lighten the color of the mold. Over 90 percent water, a bleach spray soaks into cinder block construction and reactivates mold growth. 
 
Mold remediation is a job well done by SERVPRO of North Durham. Give us a call at (919) 467-0880 to arrange for an inspection and development of a plan to remediate your moldy basement.

guide to Durham, NC.

Durham Properties Get Relief and Recovery Help from SERVPRO after Storm-Induced Harm

2/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says to Durham Homeowners--Don’t Get Yourself in a Pickle Over Floods—Call Us

Why Families Trust SERVPRO to Mitigate Flood Damage in Durham

Once floodwaters recede from your community, it is common for your neighbors to come back to look at the damage. Much of it seems worse than expected, while sometimes surprises happen, also. Finding small personal items that the flood did not destroy can help you feel a little bit of hope after an extreme disaster.

Giving families hope is why SERVPRO gets called by many families in Durham to mitigate flood damage. We understand the value you place in your home. Making sure that things not only seem safe and secure but are once again “Like it never even happened” means we have done our job well and made conditions livable for another customer. Our skills and training come into play during a crisis like flooding, and we work as a team to get the recovery done as quickly as possible, all while keeping costs as low as we can.

Becoming IICRC-certified in the many areas flood damage requires takes time and dedication. Completing several of these eliminates those who might think our job is an easy one. Not only must we clean up your home, check for safety issues to protect ourselves and our coworkers, but also ensure that the home environment is secure.

Removing debris, including large pieces of materials pushed in as well as broken furniture or ruined belongings, silt, ruined foodstuffs, appliances, mattresses, and carpeting creates small mountains of your previous household items at the curb. SERVPRO prefers to use a dumpster to keep things as orderly as possible, whenever we can, but we understand not all locations have this option. We uncomplicate the process as much as we can, working with both yourself and others outside the home, including agencies and other services and businesses. We have done this work before, and we use our previous networking with others who can assist when you need it most to alleviate the rigors of this situation even further.

SERVPRO of North Durham knows that mitigating flood damage in Bahama, Weaver, and Upland requires more than knowledge and skill – it also requires compassion and perseverance. Our team members have what it takes to help guide you through the initial stages of mitigation and restoration, and getting your family's routine back to normal. Call (919) 467-0880, 24/7, any day of the year.

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Quick Action Reduces Your Durham's Water Damaged Home Cleanup Cost

11/15/2018 (Permalink)

When water invades your home, call SERVPRO!

Why Immediate Response Counts When Restoring Water Damaged Buildings in Durham

We are going to let you know WHY SERVPRO is the best option when you need water damage restoration. Our company is locally owned and operated; thus, we have a better understanding of the area. It means our response is prompt, which plays a significant part in minimizing the restoration costs and lowering the damage. Since water is invasive and requires a short time to spread quickly through your Durham property, we can immediately start the extraction process to stop it from getting absorbed into walls, floors, and furniture.  

Irrespective of how small or significant the water damage incident in your Durham property is, one thing is for sure, normal operations cannot continue. You need immediate restoration and cleaning services to return your home to its original condition. By working with our SERVPRO team, you benefit from our 24-hour emergency services - whether it is during the holidays, at night or daytime.  

Within minutes, the water may make your colored furniture fabrics start bleeding, which makes stains develop on carpets, walls, floors, and other surfaces in your property. Our team consists of skilled technicians who are highly experienced in cleaning stained surfaces and furnishings, and we have experienced great success when it comes to addressing color bleeding concerns.

Address water events within 24 hours or furniture may start to swell and crack. It is also common to see the wood joints weakening. By using our state of the art equipment, we can dry and clean wood furniture and limit further damage. Lower your chances of mildew growth by allowing our SERVPRO technicians to dry your furnishings quickly. If molds grow, odors and unsightly stains are likely to develop. It means the chances of successful restoration increase when you call our team as soon as the incident takes place.  

The goal of SERVPRO of North Durham is to provide efficient and quick water damage restoration and cleaning services to return properties to their earlier state. To learn more about our proven services, call (919) 467-0880 at any time of the day.

Durham was named for Dr. Bartlett Durham in the 1800's. Click here for more information

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