Commercial Water Damage

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian provides mitigation services for all lower Anne Arundel County residents. Recently we did a job for a management company that suffered a sprinkler system malfunction in one of their buildings.  Several businesses suffered water damage and needed our help. There was extensive damage to the flooring and walls and, because everyone was working remotely during the pandemic, it was some time before the damage was discovered.  

When we arrived at the location, we were fast to start removing non-salvageable items and getting the structure to start to dry.  Then came the herculean task of helping to package content for storage until the structure had been restored. We were able to quickly get a storage container placed in the parking lot and moved the contents into it.  Once the structure had dried, drywall was replaced, walls painted and flooring was replaced we were able to assist in the replacement of the office furniture in the business, to help the business get back to full operation quickly.  

Although a commercial loss is different than a residential loss the desired result is the same, returning the customer's life back to normal as quickly as possible.  We at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian take that to heart and do everything we can to make it happen.  Call us at 410-923-6166 if you find yourself in need of service. We are available 24-7, 7 days a week. You can count on our team to get your business back up and running fast. 

Hurricane Season Is Upon Us

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

It is that time of the year again - the dreaded hurricane season. Do you know what you need to do to be prepared? Hurricanes can pose a serious threat to both your life and property. These natural disasters produce winds ranging from 74 to 200 miles per hour. A storm with that much power can cause catastrophic damage and severe flooding. If your home or business sustains high winds or heavy rain you may need to survive on your own for several days. Don’t wait until the storm hits to get your supplies together. Start now so you can stay safe.

Here’s a list of basic emergency supplies to have on hand:

• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Portable battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines and supplies

If a storm or hurricane causes water or structural damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is just a phone call away. 

In Need of Commercial Cleaning Services? There's a PRO for That!

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

Have you made some modifications to your business since the start of the pandemic? Or maybe you added some walls or changed out the carpet? Do you need some post construction cleaning done? Once the floors are down and the drywall is painted, it is time to remove the debris and dust to prepare the building to welcome your customers and employees back.  

For business owners in the Deale area, trust SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian to provide professional cleaning services to give that building that extra shine. These services can include, but are not limited to:  

• Carpet/Floor prep and cleaning  
• Ceiling, walls and fixture cleaning  
• Deodorization   
• Air Duct Cleaning   
• Debris Removal (if necessary)  
• Window Cleaning  

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can help you meet your deadlines by providing thorough post construction services in a timely manner. Call us to schedule a walk-through of your business to review recommendations at 410-867-3590! With over 45 years of restoration experience, our professionals can make any size disaster “Like it never even happened.”  

Flooded Basement? Wet Carpet? Odor Removal? We Got It Covered.

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian offers restoration services to homeowners, insurance companies, commercial businesses, and property managers in the Edgewater and South County communities. Our water damage restoration services include water removal, emergency water extraction, drying and dehumidification, carpet restoration, and mold and odor removal.   

We can help you with any water-related damage from pipe breaks, basement floods, storms, hurricanes, roof leaks or sewage backups.  Our technicians inspect your property to assess the unseen damage as well as the obvious visible damage. Our trained and certified teams use technology such as moisture meters and hygrometers to help complete a thorough cleanup of your property. The team will communicate with you throughout the drying process and walk you through the entire restoration step by step. We are available to assist you twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, service you need when you need it.     

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is always here to help so call us at 410-867-3590! 

Flood Season!

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that Edgewater is susceptible to flood damage? If you have lived in Edgewater for quite some time, you are probably well aware of this. Flood prone zones can cause severe damage to homes and businesses in the area. Whether the flood comes from a flash flood, natural flood, major river or tropical storm, the damage can be extensive. In order to stay safe from flood hazards, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has some tips for you to follow for before and after a flood occurs.  

Before a flood 

• Make sure your insurance policy covers flooding. Even renters are eligible for flood insurance. 
• Move furniture and valuables to higher floors as floodwater rises. 
• Keep the car gas tank filled in case you need to evacuate. 
• Stay informed about weather conditions.... flash flooding can occur in only minutes! 
   

Do not drive through flooded roadways. The road may not be there. Follow the instructions given by emergency officials. If told to evacuate, do so! 

After a flood 

• Do not eat or drink anything that encounters flood water. 
• Follow emergency officials' instructions on safe water consumption. You may have to boil your water. 
• Clean and have electrical equipment checked before using. 
• Report broken utilities to the proper authorities. 
• Use flashlights, not an open flame like a candle. Candles are a fire hazard and could cause an explosion if they encounter flammable gases. 
• Watch out for snakes and other "stray" animals. Water will cause snakes to come out of the ground with nowhere to go. Many other animals may be abandoned and lost.  
• Remember, floodwaters sometimes take days to rise, even when the sun is shining. It can take days for floodwaters to make their way downstream. Do not underestimate the power and speed at which flood water can rise and destroy everything in its path. 

If a flood occurs in the Edgewater area and affects your home or business, call our PROs here at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian and we can make it “Like it never even happened.”  

4 Things You Can Do in the Event of a Power Outage

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Throughout the summer, Anne Arundel County sees massive thunderstorms roll through. The warm air, the rolling sound of the thunder in the background and the streaks of lightning light up the night sky is like nature's version of fireworks. However, with every thunderstorm, there is the probability of a power outage. Here are 4 things SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian recommends in the event of a power outage: 

Be Prepared. The best way to ensure business continuity is by being prepared. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can help you develop an Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP). 

Install Surge Protectors. Install a plug-in, point-of-use electrical surge protector. You plug this device into a grounded electrical outlet and plug your appliances and computers into the surge protector.   

Battery Backups. If your property has a sump pump in the basement or crawl space, make sure the sump pump has a battery backup. Battery backups are also important for network servers. 

Contact Utility Company. When your office or home loses power, be sure to contact BGE, which provides power to most of Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Visit www.bge.com or call to report outages at 877-778-2222. If you see sparking power lines, immediately call 9-1-1. 

Normally, a short power outage is no big deal, but the longer the power is out the potential for damage to a home or business increases. 

Contents Claim Inventory Services

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Often when people think of restoration, or the restoration industry, they picture groups of trained professionals coming to their home or business, ripping out some drywall and carpet, and setting fans and dehumidifiers to dry out an area. What most people do not think about, is where do their belongings go that were either affected by the intruding damage or are near the affected area. Many residents do not have extra space for their personal belongings or the proper cleaning equipment for contents affected by water or fire damage.

Luckily for home and business owners in Anne Arundel County, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian offers contents claim inventory services. Through this service, our restoration professionals carefully pack out any contents, move them to our warehouse and restore them to preloss condition. Through this service, we are capable of providing room-by-room detailed contents listings and track these items in a detailed report through Microsoft Excel. In our spreadsheet, we will list the type of content, the condition, the quantity and the post-loss condition. These items are categorized as either total loss items, questionable items and restorable items. 

If you or someone you know has recently experienced a fire or water loss, call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian at 410-867-3590!

Move Fast when Water Damage Strikes

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve all been there...Sitting at the kitchen table and someone spills a glass of water. Quick! Clean it up! How does that relate to water that spills out of a pipe? Is it so important to clean water from your property? 

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian offers 24/7 water mitigation services because of the importance of quick remediation. Here’s a timeline of how water can create damage in your Edgewater home or Deale business: 

Water Damage Timeline 

Within Minutes 

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path. 
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. 
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets. 
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp. 

Hours 1 - 24: 

• Drywall begins to swell and break down. 
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish. 
• Furniture begins to swell and crack. 
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain. 
• A musty odor appears. 

48 Hours to 1 Week: 

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread. 
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp. 
• Metal begins to rust and corrode. 
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold. 

• Paint begins to blister. 
• Wood flooring swells and warps. 
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible. 

More Than 1 Week: 

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive. 

When it comes to water in your property, the key to lowering your expenses and minimizing damages is get it cleaned quickly. 

Fire Restoration Pros

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

When your home or office suffers a fire, the amount of damage may be the first thing on your mind. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Restoring your work space after a fire involves 3 restoration facets: water damage, smoke damage, and fire damage. Our goal at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is to get your business up and running as quickly as possible.

Technically, water is NOT part of a fire event. However, the hoses and amount of water used to extinguish a fire typically causes some sort of water damage. If this damage isn’t treated properly, the property may suffer mold damage later.

Smoke and Soot cause a large amount of damage in a property. Not only for the obvious discoloration, but for their harmful odors and contamination. Some structural framing can be treated for odor contamination, but most of the contents in a property affected by smoke and soot will need to be transported to our facility. In some cases, SERVPRO can remove odors in our ozone chamber and our Ultrasonic Cleaning Equipment can easily remove black soot that cannot be removed by human hands.

Fires spread quickly and destroy furnishings and appliances but oftentimes, electronics can be restored to pre-fire condition. It’s important that these contents are disposed of properly. But, a very important element in fire restoration is to restore or remove the HVAC system to ensure no harmful particles will spread through the air and cause future health problems.

When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is open 24/7 and ready for emergency service.

COVID Cleaning Done Right

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and sanitize your business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform daily. Although the pandemic is ending, it is important for businesses to feel safe in their own offices.  

Here are 4 things that show how our cleaning is different than janitorial cleaning:  

IICRC Certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Not only is SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian IICRC certified as a firm, but most members of our staff carry several IICRC certifications.  

Cleaning Experts. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables at a minimum. Most of our cleaning tactics will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis  

The CDC also recommends regular cleaning of the following areas/items:  

• Kitchen/Food Areas 
• Bathrooms in Schools/Classrooms 

• Offices 
• Retail Spaces 
• Water Fountains 
• Shelving/Racks  
• Sales Counters 

• Carpets and Rugs 
• Stair Handrails 
• Elevators and Escalators 
• Playground Equipment 
• Fitness Equipment 

Cleaning Products. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.  

Our proprietary cleaning agents, Benefact and Shockwave, are EPA-certified, hospital-grade disinfectants that have demonstrated effectiveness against viruses like COVID-19 on hard, non-porous surfaces.  

We carry multiple hospital-grade disinfectants and provide our personnel with proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Not only does this protect everyone, but it also protects the building and people in it.    

Cleaning Procedures. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian technicians are experts in infectious disease cleanup and bio-hazard cleaning. We are a member in American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA). Our proven cleaning procedures and protocols have been used to clean and sanitize rhinovirus and norovirus in the past. We are implementing similar protocols, and we are "battle tested" regarding virus cleanup.  

Bring the professionals in! Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian (410) 867-3590. 

SERVPRO of Edgewater invests in our Employees

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

As an industry leader in restoration, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale - Churchton/Lothian strives to constantly improve. Whether that is through our equipment or training and anything in between, our franchise wants to be the best restoration company you can find. Not only do we provide some of the best restoration services in Anne Arundel County, our franchise invests time and assets into our employees to advance their careers within the restoration industry. Our production team is consistently taking courses to earn IICRC certifications and learning as much as possible about the restoration industry. 

One of our production team members, Josh, is currently taking an IICRC course for a water damage certification. Josh has been a reliable production technician for our franchise over the past two years. Now, Josh is taking the opportunity to advance his career and is working towards becoming a crew chief! 

Our franchise cares about our employees and wants them to grow. We take the time to invest in training and continual learning. If your home or business needs deep cleaning or restoration services, call the experts today SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian at (410) 867-3590. 

The PASS Technique

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, we restore buildings and contents after fires have occurred. We encourage you to train your employees on some basic fire safety techniques on an annual basis. 

Here’s a quick list of some techniques you should use. 

Fire extinguisher training should be done on an annual basis, at least, and should also be part of the initial training for new employees. 

The P.A.S.S Technique 

If employees aren't confident they can safely put out a fire, they should evacuate instead. The acronym P.A.S.S. helps employees remember each step of using an extinguisher to reduce fire damage. 

1. Pull the pin. Find the pin at the top of the canister and pull it out to break the tamper seal. 

1. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. When the source of water is doused, the flames should die down. 

1. Squeeze the handle to release the pressurized chemicals inside the canister. 

1. Sweep the spray from side to side, maintaining your focus at the base of the fire.  

After working through the steps, keep your eye on the area. If flames reappear, repeat steps 2 to 4. 

Annual Fire Response Drills 

• Use the following steps in case of a fire (and during yearly drills.) 
• Pull the fire alarm and alert the fire department. 
• Protect the designated evacuation path. If fire, heat, or smoke threatens to come between employees and the exit, personnel should evacuate instead of fighting the fire. 
• Choose an appropriate extinguisher. 
• Complete the P.A.S.S. technique. 
• Observe the location of the fire to catch any flames that may reignite.  
• Evacuate immediately if the fire is too big, if the air isn't safe to breathe, if the room is too hot or smoky, and/or if the evacuation path is compromised. 
• Once the ability to use the fire extinguisher has been mastered and employees have been trained in the fire response routine, schedule opportunities for employees to practice their responses to a fire. 

Practice Safety 

It doesn't take long for a kitchen fire to pop up in a restaurant or flames to appear in an industrial setting. Protect your employees with training on how to use a fire extinguisher and regular drills in fire safety techniques. 

Industry Leading Equipment

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater understands that using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, and it most certainly does in the restoration industry, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will always answer your call with fast action.  

Our industry leading detection equipment helps provide our customers with an accurate scope. Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure into which water has intruded and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. We use the same devices to ensure a room, space, or environment has been dried thoroughly. Some of these pieces of equipment include: 

Moisture Sensores – used to detect moisture in carpets and carpet padding 

Moisture Meters – used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials and provides accurate readings to monitor the drying process 

Thermo-hygrometers – measure both temperature and relative humidity 

Infrared Cameras – can identify the location and extent of moisture in walls very effectively  

Manometers – measures the difference in air pressure when creating a negative air pressure environment  

If you experience a disaster at your home or business, call us today at 410-867-3590 and we can make it “Like it never even happened.” 

5 Ways Water Damage Occurs in the Winter Months

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Just because it is cold out does not mean water damage cannot affect your home. Water damage never sleeps. In fact, it is more common in the winter months than most others. Water can destroy your home or business’ walls, carpets, cabinets, ceilings and so much more. That is why, in this blog post, we want to talk about 5 ways water damage can occur during the winter months: 

Frozen Pipes – As one of the most common types of water damage causes in the winter, frigid temperatures cause pipes to freeze and break resulting in large water losses. 

Leaking Water Heater – Colder temperatures cause water heaters to work harder to heat up. When an older heater is constantly running and working harder, it often results in leaks or bursts.  

Melting Snow – Melting snow on your roof can create a serious threat. If gutters are clogged or frozen, water can seep back into your roof and in your attic. Water trapped in attics almost always support mold growth due to humidity. Melting snow can also leak into cracks in your property’s foundation, causing flooding.  

Overflowing Gutters – As previously mentioned, clogged gutters pose a serious threat during the winter months. Water can leak into the roof and pour over the sides, creating cracks in the foundation. 

Poorly Insulated Pipes – If a water line is exposed to outside temperatures, it must be properly insulated. Any exposed pipe not covered by some type of foam or fiberglass will most likely freeze and break during the winter.  

Snowstorm Inbound? What You Can do to Save Your Home

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

Attention to our fellow Anne Arundel County residents! If you have not been following the weather forecast, we have some news for you! An upcoming snowstorm is set to hit the East coast this weekend. Weather forecasts are calling for up to a few of snow with other wintry conditions on Sunday afternoon into early Monday morning.  

Travel disruptions could heavily affect our area near the end of Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend. The storm is still developing so its course is still unpredictable. That begs the question, are you prepared to tackle another winter snowstorm? Is your house in condition to withstand the wintry mix? If not, our professionals over at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian have gathered some tips for you to winterize your home before it is too late! 

Weatherproof your home. 

Ensuring your home is safe from any weather damage is essential for major snowstorms. This can include unclogging your gutters, clearing debris, and tree limbs away from the foundation of your home, turning off your outdoor water supply and more.  

Test your smoke detector.  

You should change your smoke detectors’ batteries twice a year. Daylight savings is a perfect time to do so. If you forgot this year, make sure you test your smoke detector in case of emergency.  

Check your emergency supplies.  

It is always a good idea to stock up on batteries, portable chargers, gasoline, food, and water when a storm is inbound.  

Clean or have your chimney inspected.  

Winter weather can cause considerable damage to your chimney, especially if it is already compromised.  

Considering purchasing a generator.  

A backup power supply in case of an outage can be the difference between being cold and being comfortable. With the most recent snowstorm, several homes on the East coast lost power, some for several days.  

Be Winter Ready!

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for a power outage.

Freezing temperatures are already upon us. And with freezing temperatures, comes frozen sprinkler pipes. We all know how unpredictable Maryland weather can be; we saw it happen last week with 60 degrees one day and 10 inches of snow the next. So that begs the question, are you and your home winter ready? 

If not, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has you covered. Did you know a sprinkler pipe at a typical flow fate of 30 gallons per minute can expel as much as 500 gallons of water in 15 minutes? In just 15 minutes, flowing water can cause serious damage to your home.  

Here are a few tips to consider for your family:  

• Make a family communications plan and evacuation plan for the winter months 
• Travel safely and smartly, being well-rested and well-prepared during daylight hours 
• Consistently monitor the weather, especially when planning a big event 
• Keep safe heaters on a single electrical cord, at least three feet away from flammable objects 
• Turn off your outdoor water supply and ensure your sump pump is running properly  

If you have any problems this winter, call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian and we will send our certified professionals to make any size disaster “Like it never even happened.”  

Are Your Pets Ready for Winter?

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

We all love the snow, most of us anyway. Going on a wintry wonderland walk is always peaceful and can help clear your mind, especially with your pet by your side. Here at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, we love our pets as much as we love getting emergency calls. These winter weather walks can be hazardous for your pet so here is some advice from our franchise:  

Exposure to winter’s cold, dry air and chilly precipitation can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin for your pet. In addition to this, winter walks can become outright dangerous if your pet licks chemicals from ice-melting substances off its paws.  

• Keep your home humidified and dry your pets when they come inside to avoid itchy skin. 
• Never shave your dog in the winter. Instead, go for a short trim until the weather warms up. 
• Bathe your pets as little as possible during freezing weather. 
• Applying petroleum jelly or using booties could help protect your pet’s paws.  
• Feed your pet a little extra during the winter. This additional scoop of food provides extra calories.  
• Remember, if it is too cold for you, it is too cold for your pet.  

We hope you enjoyed these cold weather safety tips for your pets! Stay warm this winter! 

Cigarette Fire Safety

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

This homeowner suffered a large fire loss due to a cigarette.

We recently had an emergency call come in where the homeowner experienced a large fire loss due to a cigarette. We want to ensure smokers in the Edgewater area are smoking safely and understand the risks associated with smoking involving their house. It is important for smokers to know the steps they can take to keep themselves and their families safe from fire. Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian that could help protect you or someone you know who smokes.  

Smoke outside. Many things in your home can catch on fire if they come in contact with some like cigarette ashes. 

Put cigarettes out ALL THE WAY. Do this every time. Do not walk away from lit cigarettes or other smoking materials. 

Be alert. Do not smoke after taking medicine that makes you tired or drowsy.  

 Never smoke around medical oxygen. Medical oxygen can explode if a flame or spark is near, even if the oxygen is turned off.  

Never smoke in bed. Mattresses and bedding can catch on fire easily. People also fall asleep often with lit cigarettes. 

Put your cigarette out in an ashtray or bucket with sand. Use ashtrays with a wide base so they will not tip over and start a fire.  

Smoking safely and knowing what to do in the event of an emergency could mean the difference between limiting damage to your home and losing everything. If you experience a fire loss, call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian at 410-867-3590.  

Leaders in Restoration

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

If your Anne Arundel County business suffers a large loss from water, fire, or natural disaster, you can count on SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Park to restore your property. Our project management staff is qualified to handle any disaster along with industry-leading equipment to make any size disaster “Like it never even happened.”  

As an employer in your community, having an emergency continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster. You can do this by taking three simple steps: 

• Plan to stay in business 
• Encourage your employees to become ready 
• Protect your investment 

At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Park we employee experienced leaders in the restoration industry that specializes in all varieties of emergency cleanup with the capacity for any size job. Our team includes IICRC certified technicians. The IICRC certification is the highest standard of cleaning and remediation. We are American Bio Recovery Association certified in biohazard recovery/infectious disease and blood-borne pathogens. Our crew chiefs provide complete job file maintenance and electronic communication protocols.  

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Park owns a variety of specialized mitigation equipment, including testing and monitoring equipment. Our 18,000 square foot warehouse facility houses over 45 warehouse crates providing extra-large storage capacity, an Ozone room which eradicates odor from business property and our cleaning room dedicated to content cleaning only. 

When fire or water damage puts things that matter most on the line, you need the absolute best help on the line. That is why you should contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian in the event of disaster.  

Choosing the Right Generator

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have EVERYTHING you need to be fully prepared for winter this year? From severe winds to snowfall and freezing rain and everything in between, it can be extremely difficult to prepare for every disaster. One thing you should invest in for your home, if you have not already, is a backup generator in case of a power outage. Here are a few tips our crew at SERVPRO has before choosing the right generator:  

• Add up the power requirements of the appliances and devices you will want to use. (Check the back and sides for a label with this info.) 
• Add up the wattage of all the light bulbs you will want to use. 
• Find the total amps you need by dividing watts by volts. 
• Choose a generator that produces more amps than you need – because some machines draw up to 3 times as much power when starting up, and others lose efficiency over time. 

The best option is a permanently installed stationary generator. But this might not always be possible for families in Anne Arundel County. If your power needs are more complicated or you are having a challenging time deciding what to do, try reaching out to a certified electrician to assist you.  

If you experience any type of winter weather or storm damage loss to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Edgewater and our crew will restore your home to preloss condition! 

How does candle smoke permeate?

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

The cheapest and most widely used candle is made of paraffin—which is derived from petroleum. When burned, it releases a toxin called toluene, which has been found to cause DNA strand breakdown, affecting the nervous system.

When you are burning a candle, you are essentially vaporizing the liquid wax into a gas that is flammable. This vapor can then be used as fuel for the candle flame. It is this vaporized wax that fuels all candle flames used with conventional wax-based candles.

Smoke from candles is actually soot. Smoke is just soot and other particulates carried on the hot air rising off the flame. When you put the top on a jarred candle and trap the smoke, it cools. And, the particulates in the candle settle onto the candle and the inside walls of the jar.

Fireplaces, cigarettes and the burning of candles can all result in soot stains on walls. Though soot collects on other surfaces in the home, soot stains are easy to spot on light-colored walls. Aside from being unattractive, soot can cause health effects.

In general, candles won’t set off your smoke alarm. However, they can cause a fire. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has provided fire damage remediation and reconstruction to several properties where candles were the cause of the fires.

Here's How You Can Get You Office Winter Ready

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

A winter safety kit that you can prepare for your Anne Arundel county business or property.

Is your office winter ready? Temperatures are dipping in Anne Arundel County. December 21 is the first day of winter so make sure you take the necessary precautions for freezing temperatures! 

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property:  

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.  
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems  
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate a potential flood hazard.  
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.  
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe.  

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Edgewater professionals to strike back and help make it “Like it never even happened.”   

Water In the Attic? Call SERVPRO!

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

We see water damage in attics all the time. Check your attic before the first day of winter!

Water In the Attic? Call SERVPRO! 

We see it all the time. One morning, you wake up and there’s water leaking from your ceiling, and you have no clue what happened. Come to find out, your attic is leaking water and you have no idea how. With winter weather approaching, our trained professionals see this problem all too often. Here are some tips we gathered to help protect your attic and home from water damage this winter.  

Check your attic insulation! 

Ensuring your attic is properly insulated is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home from not only the cold and humidity, but also to prevent mold, dust, dirt, and mildew from spreading in your home. Inspecting your insulation for any cracks or seams where water can enter is a great preventative measure you can take before the severe winter weather hits.  

Stay wary of ice dams forming over your gutters! 

Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot flow into the gutter, it can flow back into the roof’s shingles and into the structure's interior. Our professionals can help mitigate water damage caused by ice dams and get your home back to preloss condition.  

Our SERVPRO professionals understand just how disruptive water in your home can be to you, your family and everyday life. That’s why we offer 24-hour emergency response by trained, uniformed professionals. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has top-of-the-line equipment and time-tested cleanup and restoration techniques to make your house feel like a home again.  

We Care for YOUR Business

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

As a small business, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian understands that any size setback to your business can lead to long-lasting problems. That is why, with a national presence and a small business feel, we always arrive faster to any size disaster. We will mitigate any water, fire, mold, or storm damage so that your business can remain open, and you can focus on your customers. We do so through providing:  

• Quick response time that may help avoid revenue loss for property owners and minimize inconvenience for tenants  
• Restoration services can help you resume normal business functions quickly while avoiding costly construction downtime 
• Use of professional equipment and industry-approved techniques to save you time and money  

We are available 24/7 with SERVPRO franchised professionals who will work hard to restore your property and its contents to preloss condition. We work hard to help any business out of disaster situations. If your business has experienced any type of water, fire, storm or mold damage, contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian.   

Fall Weather Prep to Prevent Water Damage

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fall is a scenic time of the year that brings the color changing leaves with cooler temperatures. In Maryland, we have a variety of hardwood trees with large leaves as well as numerous types of pine trees, which shed their needles each year. Because of this, SERVPRO of Edgewater often sees homeowners who forget or neglect their gutters, forgetting to clean them. Do not be one of those homeowners this fall!  

Gutters can get clogged with leaves and debris which is why it is crucial for homeowners to have their gutters cleaned every year and prevent any water from getting through the flashing and into homes. The same goes for storm drains and window wells. Storm drains should be cleared to avoid any flooding occurring in the lowest level of the home. Window wells should also be cleared of leaves and debris.  

Lastly, clear the area where the water from your downspout empties onto your lawn. You will want the water to run clearly away from the foundation to avoid any water damage. In addition, clearing and trimming the landscaping around your house will prevent moisture from building up in your foundation which could also cause water damage.  

Why Your Christmas Tree Might Be a Fire Hazard

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

The holidays can be a somewhat dangerous time. Did you know that emergency rooms typically treat an estimated 14,000 holiday decorating related injuries, an average of about 240 injuries per day in November and December? These injuries ranged anywhere from falling off ladders while hanging lights to lacerations from broken glass in ornaments. A strong number of these cases are often Christmas tree related incidents. Here are some ways you can avoid Christmas tree accidents this winter: 

Ensure that your live tree is fresh and that the needles are hard to pull of the branches. This indicates that your tree is fresh and not dried out. Another indicator is the tree trunk itself. The trunk should be sticky and if you tap the tree on the ground, only a few needles should fall off.  

Keep your tree away from any heat source in your home. This includes fireplaces, vents, radiators, and space heaters.  

Be sure to check the water level daily. Check the water level in your tree stand and make sure your tree is fresh. A heated room can quickly dry out a tree, making it a dangerous fire hazard.  

Inspect your lights and ornaments before putting them on your tree and plugging them in. Check for any frayed wires or broken or missing lights.  

SERVPRO of Edgewater wants you and your family to safe this upcoming holiday season. Avoid any incidents involving your Christmas tree this winter by using these tips! 

The First 48 Hours After a Fire

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

The first 48 hours after a fire can make the difference in restoring versus replacing your damaged property and personal belongings. SERVPRO of Glen Burnie can help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems for your personal belongings. We provide prompt response with professional services ranging from fire, smoke and soot removal to contents claims inventory and document restoration. Our professionals will help ensure that your belongings and memories are restored to previous conditions when possible.  

Before we arrive on site, here are some actions you can take before help arrives: 

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading  
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, high traffic areas, and upholstery  

• Coat any chrome trim or faucets with petroleum jelly or oil 
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet 
• Do NOT wash any walls, painted surfaces, and carpet 
• Do NOT clean any electrical equipment 
• Do NOT send any clothing items to a dry cleaner  

Before you risk any further damage by attempting to clean any damaged items yourself, call our SERVPRO professionals to help make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

The Season of Tropical Storms

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Were you or someone you know affected by one of the many storms that affected our area this month? Were parts of your home damaged or destroyed by the severe storms? According to the National Weather service, the sort of damage observed in Edgewater wiith some roofs torn from homes and power lines topped over, can require wind speeds from 100 to 140 mph.  

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Whether you have minor or major damage to your home because of the storm, SERVPRO professionals who can help. Our highly trained crews use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.  

Being locally owned and operated, our teams can respond faster to your problems and with the right resources. The SERVPRO system is designed to handle any size disaster and help make it “Like it never even happened.”  Call us for assistance 410-923-6166

Is Your Business Prepared for a Flood?

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Floods rank as one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States; And because Edgewater is near the coastline, our community is even more at risk of flooding. Is your business prepared for a flood? Here are the steps you need to take to help prepare your property before a flood:  

• Have a qualified professional elevate your furnace, water heater and electric panel if these units are susceptible to flooding 
• Install “check valves” in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into your drains 
• Seal walls in your basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage 

We understand that every hour we spend cleaning is an hour of lost revenue and productivity for you. So, when an emergency arises in your business, give us a call and our team at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, will be there fast with the help you need.  410-923-6166.

Does Your Renter’s Insurance Cover You In Case of a Fire?

9/22/2021 (Permalink)

Does your insurance cover you and your belongings in case of a fire? With Fire Prevention Week approaching, it is very important to prepare for the unexpected. However, it is even more important to be prepared by knowing what your renter’s insurance does and does not cover.  

Your insurance policy can help protect your family if a fire should affect your home. Knowing what your policy does and how it covers you is crucial.  

Here at SERVPRO of Edgewater Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, we want to give you some insight on a few ways renter’s insurance can help protect you and your wallet:  

• Protect personal property – Your landlord’s insurance will most likely cover the building and items belonging to the landlord, but your items are not included in the coverage. You will need a policy to provide replacement value of personal property lost 
• Prevent financial destruction from liability – Ensure that your insurance policy includes protection for your personal belongings in case you accidentally start the fire. 
• Supply money for accommodation - Verify that your renter’s policy includes this coverage which provides for hotel fees or the expense of relocation. A disaster that occurs at your home can help you pay for somewhere else to live if the space becomes uninhabitable.  

Renter’s insurance is relatively affordable, costing around $30 a month. This coverage can protect your belongings no matter whether they are damaged or stolen. Remember, flood damage requires a separate coverage, but damage done to your home due to a fire or other disaster is usually covered. It is up to your property owner to have the adequate coverage for the building and any additions that may be included.

If you or someone you know has recently experienced fire damage to your property, contact SERVPRO of Edgewater Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian to help prevent fire damage from creating long-term problems.  

National Preparedness Month

9/11/2021 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month, an annual observance to remind all Americans how important it is for individuals, families, businesses and communities to be prepared for disasters and emergencies that can happen at any time.

This year’s theme is Prepare to Protect and highlights how preparing for disaster is to protect everyone you love. Now is the time that everyone should have a conversation with their family, neighbors and co-workers to discuss what you would do in the event of a disaster in your area. Also, everyone should sign up to receive local alerts and warning on your mobile phone. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service and have the steps to prepare for disaster with you at all times to keep you and your loved ones safe

If your home or business suffers a natural disaster or emergency call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, 410-687-3590, we can help.

Hurricane Season Is Coming

8/24/2021 (Permalink)

Its hurricane season again. Do you know what to do to be prepared? Hurricanes can pose a serious threat to both your life and property. These natural disasters produce winds ranging from 74 to 200 miles per hour. A storm with that much power can cause catastrophic damage and severe flooding. If your home or business sustains high winds or heavy rain you may need to survive on your own for several days. Don’t wait until the storm hits to get your supplies together. Start now so you can stay safe.

Here’s a list of basic emergency supplies to have on hand:

• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Portable battery-operated radioand extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines and supplies

If a storm does cause water or structural damage to your property, SERVPRO of

Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is just a phone call away. #here2help. 

Got Mold?

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian specializes in mold remediation. It’s common for us to get calls from commercial building owners who have concerns with mold. Sometimes it seems even small water damages that aren't properly dried out have the potential to create ideal conditions for mold to grow, don’t let this happen in your building.  

Here are a few things you can do to keep moisture away which will in turn keep the mold away: 

• Keep the humidity between 30-60 percent. 
• Provide for proper drainage away from the building foundation. 
• Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks. 
• Keep gutters and drains clear of debris. 
• Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance.  
• Respond to all water intrusions immediately. 

Got mold? Contact us, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian at (410) 867-3590 for assistance after a water damage or if you find mold. We are #Here2Help

Quick Action Counts for Water Damage Clean Up

8/9/2021 (Permalink)

Ticking Clock

Do you know what to do if a water damage occurs in your home or business? When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian professionals respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. We are on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week to assist you when you need us.  

Technicians evaluate the situation and determine the best drying plan for your situation. They will closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly. We work hand in hand with insurance providers to ensure all your information gets transferred to them quickly, to speed the process so you can get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. From start to finish for a professional top-notch job SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian are the ones to call.  

Heavy Rain Has Stopped For Now

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded Street

The heavy rains have stopped for now but more are forecasted, and ground water levels are high. There is no time to waste when your home is affected, a fast response is a critical factor in reducing damage and restoring water damaged materials. Your local SERVPRO franchise will help you clean up your water damage in your Chesapeake Beach home. Upon arrival we will do a damage assessment and evaluation to determine the best path of action to remove the water and dry out your property fast. The damaged area is inspected with water sensing equipment such as probes and other infrared tools in order to determine the  extent of areas affected and calculate the amount of drying equipment needed. 

In addition to cleaning up fire and water damages, SERVPRO franchise pros can get your home put back together afterwards.  Keep us in mind for your reconstruction needs. Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian if you need help cleaning up after this round of storms - 410-923- 6168- #Here2Help  

Storm Water in Edgewater

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian knows how to get you back to normal quickly when you have flood or storm water in your Edgewater home.

There are many potential issues left behind after flood water enters and damages your home. Once the water enters, the damage begins almost immediately and compounds from there. Flood water is never clean and often has toxins, sludge, and sewage in it causing damage to everything it touches.

These conditions require the expertise of a certified and trained technician who knows what can be salvaged and cleaned and what has to be removed for the safety of your family. It’s important that your home is dried properly and thoroughly to prevent long term damage.

We here at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can provide you with this help. Don’t let a flood in your Pasadena property get you down! We will be there to help 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

We Strive for Five

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

We ALWAYS strive for 5 star ratings. We want your contact with us to be top of the line. From the first conversation with the office associate all the way through to the rebuild crew, we want you to be 100% satisfied with our service.

Our team knows how difficult this time is for you, your life is in upheaval and your home or business has been devastated by a crisis. If you need us in your Edgewater home, we want you to be assured that we will treat your home and belongings with the care and respect we would expect our own to be treated with. The best compliment you can give us is to refer your friends and neighbors to us, if you do that we know you were satisfied with the service we provided.

WE STRIVE FOR FIVE – If you want the best call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian  410-923-6166, and we will give you the best service around.#heretohelp.

Does Your Home Have a Mold Problem?

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

South County is fairly used to water damage and mold since the area tends to be very low lying. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian recently did a mold remediation job in Deale.

With a lot of rain in the previous month, water seeped into a Deale basement and the homeowners were unaware until they went downstairs to change a furnace filter and smelled a strong, musty odor. Since the furnace was running with a moldy filter mold spores were floating throughout the ductwork. What a mess and potential health problem this could have been. Fortunately, the homeowners call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian to come out and evaluate the home. The next day, our trained technicians used specialized equipment to properly remediate the mold problem quickly and safely, including the ducts!

If you suspect mold, stay out of affected areas, turn the HVAC system and fans OFF and call us, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian at 410-867-3590, we will be there fast to help and solve your problem.

Water Damage In Anne Arundel County

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Sprinkler Malfunction

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian provides mitigation services for all of lower Anne Arundel County. Recently we did a job for a management company that suffered a sprinkler system malfunction in one of their buildings.  Several businesses suffered water damage and needed our help. There was extensive damage to the flooring and walls, because everyone was working remotely during Covid and it was some time before the damage was discovered. 

When we arrived at the location, we were fast to start removing non- salvageable items and getting the structure to start to dry.  Then came the herculean task of helping to package content for storage until the structure had been restored. We were able to quickly get a storage container placed in the parking lot and moved the contents into it.  Once the structure had dried, drywall was replaced, walls painted and flooring was replaced we were able to assist in the replacement of the office furniture in the business, to help the business get back to full operation quickly. 

Although a commercial loss is different than a residential loss the desired result is the same, return the customers life back to normal as quickly as possible.  We at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian take that to heart and do everything we can to make it happen.  Call us at 410-923-6166 if you find yourself in need of service. We are available 24-7, 7 days a week. You can count on our team to get your business backup and running FAST, FAST, FAST. 

We’re Here to Help!!

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

When you see your office going up in smoke or water is running down the walls and across the floors of your business, it’s an emergency. It doesn’t matter if it’s 3AM or 3PM, you need help now, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian prides itself on a rapid response time.  

Recently, we received a call for service from a church in the middle of the afternoon, they had several feet of water in one of their buildings and needed it pumped out right away to start getting things dried out.  We were on site in an hour but stayed long into the night to finish the initial stages of service. We used air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the structure and were able to get the space put back together with minimal disruption to their services. 

It doesn’t matter if its fire, flood, biohazard, mold or just a general carpet cleaning we always provide the BEST service in the industry. We pride ourselves on being available 24/7 to help in any disaster. We strive for FIVE on every service call and value your online reviews and comments. 

How Can You Limit Your Exposure to Mold?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth

We’re all exposed to mold every day, but living or working in a moldy environment increases the likelihood of developing mold-related symptoms.

If you think a space you frequent is affected, it’s important to limit your exposure.  

Limit exposure you say, how am I to do that when mold is found in every environment?  You may feel like you’re fighting a losing battle. With mold in so many places, indoors and out it can be challenging. You can take steps to limit your exposure indoors and make your home or business less mold-friendly. The key is to control the amount of moisture in the air. Mold is most frequently found in bathrooms, kitchens, attics and basements.

 Follow these steps to help limit moisture in these areas:

• Use an exhaust fan or open a window in the bathroom it will draw moisture up and out
• Quick action can pay off! Fix leaky pipes, faucets or appliances right away
• Lower the humidity in your basement by using a dehumidifier and choosing flooring that doesn’t hold moisture. Be careful what you store there. Mold will grow on old papers bedding and clothes. Use waterproof plastic containers instead of boxes whenever possible. Rake dead leaves from around the foundation of your home. Make sure as much as possible that rainwater drains away from your home. Clear out that drain at the bottom of your basement steps if it clogs water will run right in around the door flooding your basement.
• Check roof gutters for proper drainage so waters isn’t leaking back into your attic area.

 Any and all of these steps will help to prevent mold growth, if you do find you have a mold problem.  Call the experts, at SERVPRO of  Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian at 410-923-6166. We are here to help and will provide you with the expertise that comes with over 40 years of service in the mold remediation industry in Anne Arundel County.  

We Are The Cleaning Experts!!

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Corona Virus Germs

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. We adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards and our employees are trained and experienced.

As a member of American Biorecovery Association, your local SERVPRO is prepared to clean and disinfect your 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.  As schools are re-opening and retail spaces are allowed to increase capacity, enlist the help of SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian.

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park, 410-647-8181

Do You Have a Home Evacuation Plan?

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you with as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds.

If a fire breaks out in your home have you established an evacuation plan? Pull together everyone in your household and make a fire escape plan. How will you exit and where will you meet are both key aspects that should be discussed.

A couple tips to remember; stay low to avoid smoke, fumes and super heated gases. Close doors as you leave to confine fire as much as possible. Most importantly if a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL FOR HELP.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian technicians are IICRC trained to handle even the toughest of losses. The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process, but trust professionals to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Training Makes SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian the Best Choice

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Training

So, why would you choose SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian? Because we are qualified. We pride ourselves on continual learning. Recently, our technicians attended a mold awareness class. 

Most remediation industry companies are IICRC certified. This type of certification promotes the highest quality concepts, terminology, and procedures recognized in the cleaning and restoration industry.  

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian goes above the basic mold remediation. We work closely with environmental specialists to ensure we understand the type of mold we are tackling. In the past few weeks, our crews went to Environmental Solutions, Inc. (ESI) for a 3-hour class. They learned more about the different types of mold that effect Anne Arundel County as well as the latest treatment techniques. 

To that end, when your property demands the best, contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian. We are your highly trained mold remediation specialists. 

Edgewater Water Damage Cleanup

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Edgewater Water Damage

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can provide a solution to your water damage needs. Recently, our team worked in an Edgewater property that had a pipe burst. Learn how our restoration process works so you can feel confident calling on us. 

As you can see from the picture, this home suffered water damage when a pipe burst. Many rooms in the property suffered including a bedroom, a living room ceiling, and floors. The most important thing to remember is to get water damage mitigated quickly. 

Our process for water cleanup and restoration is as follows: 

A uniformed professional will arrive onsite usually within 4 hours of notification to begin providing a resolution to the water damage situation. 

A SERVPRO professional utilizes industry guidelines, knowledge, training and industrial equipment to examine the extent of the damage. 

Restoration services include moisture detection, water extraction, dehumidification, contents inventory and drying validation. 

Technicians will close the claim in a timely manner through electronic claims reporting, consistent communication and professional restoration techniques. 

Remember, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Why is it so Important to Get Water Cleaned Up Quickly?

1/13/2021 (Permalink)

Get Water Cleaned Quickly

We’ve all been there...Sitting at the kitchen table and someone spills a glass of water. Quick! Clean it up! How does that relate to water that spills out of a pipe? Is it so important to clean water from your property? 

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian offers 24/7 water mitigation services because of the importance of quick remediation. Here’s a timeline of how water can create damage in your Edgewater home or Deale business: 

Water Damage Timeline 

Within Minutes 

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path. 
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. 
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets. 
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp. 

Hours 1 - 24: 

• Drywall begins to swell and break down. 
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish. 
• Furniture begins to swell and crack. 
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain. 
• A musty odor appears. 

48 Hours to 1 Week: 

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread. 
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp. 
• Metal begins to rust and corrode. 
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold. 

• Paint begins to blister. 
• Wood flooring swells and warps. 
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible. 

More Than 1 Week: 

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive. 

• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants. 

When it comes to water in your property, the key to lowering your expenses and minimizing damages is get it cleaned quickly. 

Dangers of Extreme Cold

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Extreme Cold

While your Edgewater home may get damaged by winter weather and extreme cold, your personal health is also at risk. 

Winter storms create a higher risk of accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, as well as heart attacks from overexertion, according to Ready.gov. That is why it’s important to be aware of the effect extremely cold temperatures can have on you. 

Frostbite can occur while your skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Physical symptoms include white or grayish-yellow skin, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, and numbness. 

Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature caused from long exposure to cold weather. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. If someone’s body temperature is below 95°F, seek medical attention immediately.  

To avoid these conditions, stay indoors, if possible. If not, dress in layers to stay warm and keep dry. 

Tools Used for Water Mitigation

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Water Mitigation Tools

Small water damage can cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your Edgewater home or business. Not only do our technicians hold IICRC certifications, but they also have specialized equipment that helps them perform restoration services.  

Here are a few of the tools used by our technicians: 

• Moisture Sensors. Used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls. 
• Thermohygrometers. Used to measure temperature and relative humidity. This allows us to calculate and create an environment most conductive to drying. 

• Thermal Foggers. Used to dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog.  

So, why would you choose SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian? Not only are our technicians industry certified, we provide the state-of-the-art tools they need to get the job done right. 

How Does Smoke Permeate?

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

The damage to your Edgewater home or business following a fire is complicated due to the unique behavior of smoke. There are two different types of smoke: wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. 

Before restoration begins after any fire, our SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian professionals will survey the property to determine the impact from the fire, smoke, heat, and moisture. The soot will be detested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Based on the results, our IICRC certified technicians perform the proper cleaning method. 

Smoke can penetrate various cavities withing a structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Our team will investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. Here are some facts about how smoke permeates: 

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler area and upper levels of a structure. 

• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.  
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process. 

If your Edgewater property suffers fire or smoke damage, contact us. We strive to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Why SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian?

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Teamwork

There are many reasons we can outline as to why we think you should choose SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian. But, one reason that stands out is employee retention.  

First, our owner, Diane Whittles, has owned successful franchises in Anne Arundel County since the 1970’s. In September of 2020, she expanded the business by purchasing SERVPRO of Glen Burnie with her son, Nick. 

Nick Whittles was “born” into the SERVPRO business. As a teenager, he worked many Summers and part-time as a technician. He drove trucks to emergencies and performed restoration work through many storms including Hurricane Sandy.  After Nick graduated from college, 6 years ago, he joined the team fulltime. 

One of our most experienced and treasured employees is Eglis. He has been part of the SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian team for 18 years! 

Kathy is our Office Manager and keeps everything running smoothly. If you have a question, Kathy has the answer. Kathy has been with us for 10 years. 

These are just a few examples of our valued employees. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has many other employees who have worked here for 5 or more years. 

When disaster reaches your property, pick a team that has worked well together for years!  

Can My Belongings Be Cleaned Instead of Replaced?

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Wet Closet Floor

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian works with business owners and homeowners when disaster strikes. If there is a storm, a basement may flood. We strive to clean your items instead of replace.  

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian specializes in restoring contents damaged by storms. Our expertise and our “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. Our IICRC technicians pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including: 

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues  
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues. 

• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand cleaning. 
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.  
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product. 

There's no such thing as a small disaster. Storms can hit at any time. Trust SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, because we are open 24 hours a day 365 days a year. We are faster to any size disaster. 

Types of Smoke and Smoke Remediation

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke Damage

In the restoration business, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian gets called to building fires on a regular basis. Did you know that smoke damage is treated differently? There are 4 main types that we treat: 

• Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, and smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.  
• Dry Smoke. (Paper and Wood) Fast-burning, high temperatures; heat rises; therefore, smoke rises.  
• Protein Fire Residue. (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.  
• Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace puff backs) While “puff backs” can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park can, in most cases, restore the contents and structure quickly.  

• Other Types. (Tear gas, fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.  

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian technicians are IICRC trained to handle even the toughest of losses. The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process, but trust professionals to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Is Your Office Winter Ready?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Cold Weather

Temperatures are dipping in Anne Arundel County. December 21 is the first day of winter and even though the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts a warmer than normal winter, make sure you take precautions for freezing temperatures. 

To help prevent costly damages due to weather, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property: 

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries. 
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to help ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems 

• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate a potential flood hazard. 
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present. 
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor faucets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement or crawl space. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe. 

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian professionals to strike back and help make it “Like it never even happened.”  

Record Rainfall for Edgewater

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Like many things in 2020, the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season has astounded meteorologists around the globe.  With all the Atlantic hurricanes hitting the east coast, Edgewater and Anne Arundel County has shattered rainfall records. And, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has been called to many properties suffering water and mold damage from all the moisture and precipitation. As we like to say, we are “Ready for whatever happens.” 

In 2020, the Atlantic Ocean has seen 30 tropical storms! This is more storms than meteorologists predicted for the season, and the reason storms were given Greek Names like Hurricane Eta. Our globe hasn’t seen such a number of storms since 2005. CBS News just published a scientific piece on why this hurricane season has been so severe.  

This hurricane season has dumped record-breaking rainfalls in Anne Arundel County.  Click here to see specific measurements for these record –breaking days.  So, what happens when Edgewater gets torrential rainfall in one day? Properties get sump pumps that can’t keep up and other mechanical plumbing mishaps that cause flooded basements and more. 

At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, we are here to help. During these historic times, our team remained available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If your property suffers water damage, you can always count on us. 

Serious and Sensitive Hoarding Cleanup

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Hoarding

We’ve all seen the realty TV shows about hoarding. But, the reality is, who do you turn to for help in your local community when you have a friend or family member that is a hoarder? Each case Is very different, and hoarding jobs are often sensitive situations, but SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is here to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Reality TV show, Hoarding: Buried Alive has been around since 2010. On the documentary show, with the help of experts, men and women fight to find a way to defeat their unhealthy obsession, hoarding.  

People with hoarding disorder excessively save items that others may view as worthless. They have persistent difficulty getting rid of or parting with possessions, leading to clutter that disrupts their ability to use their living or work spaces.   

Hoarding can lead to homes filled with extreme clutter to full capacity from years of accumulation, making living conditions unsanitary and crowded. Bugs, fleas, rats, and other vermin may be present, at which point an exterminator would need to be called. At times, hoarding may spread to outside the home as well, to storage facilities, or even the garage or yard. 

Hoarding is a serious situation and our team treats each case with respect for the individual. When you need us, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is here to help. 

Why Does Edgewater Flood Easily?

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement

Edgewater and Anne Arundel County are situated along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. Edgewater and Deale border numerous creeks, streams, rivers and the Chesapeake Bay. This fact makes the southern portions of Anne Arundel County vulnerable to flooding during certain storm conditions.  Click here to learn more from Anne Arundel County. If you need Flood Insurance, click here. 

Most properties in Edgewater, have well and septic systems as well as sump pumps. Sump pumps can easily get overwhelmed during a heavy rain event. We see this a lot. Another common source of flooded basements is when power is lost and the battery backup fails on the pump.  

Tired of your Edgewater basement flooding? Be sure to know your local flood zones and your equipment is working well.  

The best way to avoid water damage from rain is to stay aware and be prepared. If you need assistance in a water emergency, call us 24/7 at (410) 867-3590. 

How to Choose the Appropriate Fire Extinguisher

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Extinguisher

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian sees a lot of fires. Many fires start in the kitchen and might be easily extinguished if the property owner had a fire extinguisher. We’ve come up with the following list so you can select the best fire extinguisher for your property:

• Class A: This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.
• Class B: Used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, and oil.
• Class C: Designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electronically energized or plugged in.
• Class D: For use on flammable metals; often specific for the type of metal in question. These are typically found in factories.
• Class K: Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. Generally found in commercial kitchens.

The fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Plan ahead this season to help ensure it is safe and fire-free.

4 Tips to Prevent Fall Fires

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fall Decorations

The fall season brings brilliant colors and cooler temperatures to Anne Arundel County. Retailers all over the area are offering you pumpkin-flavored items and autumn decorations.

In October of 2019, SERVPRO of Pasadena/Gibson Island/Lake Shore was called to a Pasadena house fire that started from a pumpkin-scented candle. So, this year, we’d like to give you 4 tips to help you keep your fall fire free.

1. Fall decorations, like dried flowers and cornstalks, are highly flammable. Keep these and other decorations away from open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters.
2. Keep emergency exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes.
3. Teach children to stay away from open flames. Be sure they know how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire.
4. Remember safety first when choosing a Halloween costume. Consider avoiding billowing fabric.

The safety of your family and property is your top priority. If your home suffers fire, smoke, or soot damage this fall, trust our team of IICRC certified professionals to clean and restore your property…”Like it never even happened.”

Fire Prevention Week 2020

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Fire Prevention Week 2020 begins on Sunday, October 4 and ends on Saturday, October 10. Does your family have a fire evacuation plan? 

To ensure the fastest emergency evacuation plan, consider the following:

1. Start your fire evacuation plan with a map. This map should include locations of exits, assembly points, and equipment (such as fire extinguishers) that may be needed in an emergency. Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors. Also, mark the location of each smoke alarm.
2. A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.
3. When you walk through your plan, check to make sure the escape routes are clear and doors and windows can be opened easily.
4. Choose an outside meeting place (i.e. neighbor's house, a light post, mailbox, or stop sign) a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they've escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.
5. Go outside to see if your street number is clearly visible from the road. If not, paint it on the curb or install house numbers to ensure that responding emergency personnel can find your home.
6. Have everyone memorize the emergency phone number of the fire department. That way any member of the household can call from a neighbor's home or a cellular phone once safely outside.

Now that you have your plan in place, make sure you practice it every year.

Where is all This Rain Coming From?

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Rain

Hurricanes and tropical storms can dump between 6 and 12 inches of rain during a single storm. On average, Maryland sees about 44 inches of rain every year.  Lately, Anne Arundel County has seen tremendous rainfall.

Scientists believe that Maryland is experiencing so much rainfall for several reasons including rising sea levels and extreme heat. So far in 2020 the area has seen tropical storms, severe thunderstorms, and even a tornado. Scientists predict the number of storms during hurricane season are also increasing. 

September is National Preparedness Month. It’s important to prepare long before a rain and flooding disaster occurs. Sign up for local alerts from Anne Arundel County. Develop and test emergency communications plans. Collect and safeguard critical documents. Document property and assets and make sure you have enough business insurance. 

Lastly, store SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian in your contact list. Our team is available 24/7 and always ready for whatever happens.

Prepare Your Business for Whatever Happens

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Hurricane

September is National Preparedness Month and Homeland Security has given 2020’s theme “Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today”. Click here to learn preparedness planning for your business.

One thing that keeps your business prepared for whatever happens is to create an office emergency kit. Here’s a list of office survival kit items to make sure that your office is equipped with all the necessary supplies to survive several days without electricity, food, and water.

For search and rescue: Leather palmed work gloves, Safety goggles, Pry bar

For hydration and nutrition: Emergency drinking water, Food bars with several years of shelf life 

For shelter: Tarp/ground cover, Cord

For communication and light: Whistle with lanyard, AM/FM radio with extra batteries, Flashlight with extra batteries, Light sticks

For Maintaining Proper Hygiene and Sanitation: Portable toilet, Toilet bags, Deodorizer packets, Toilet paper rolls, Vinyl gloves, Sanitary towelettes, Hand sanitizer

Anne Arundel County utilizes an emergency notification system, CivicReady©, capable of contacting citizens and businesses quickly in case of an emergency. CivicReady© alerts the public of emergencies and disasters, safety measures to be taken, and information pertaining to government operations. Click here to register for emergency notifications.

Prepare for Disasters

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today

A workplace emergency is an unforeseen situation that threatens your employees, customers, or the public; disrupts or shuts down your operations; or causes physical or environmental damage. Natural emergencies may include the following:

• Floods
• Hurricanes
• Tornadoes

Recently, Edgewater Maryland had a tornado that brought severe damage to several businesses. Was your business prepared?

“Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today” is the theme for 2020’s National Preparedness Month.

September 13-19: Prepare for Disasters: Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your business.  Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your building stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards and act fast if you receive a local warning or alert. 

Anne Arundel County utilizes an emergency notification system, CivicReady©, capable of contacting citizens and businesses quickly in case of an emergency. CivicReady© alerts the public of emergencies and disasters, safety measures to be taken, and information pertaining to government operations. Click here to register for emergency notifications.

During September (National Preparedness Month), we urge you to train and educate internal personnel on your emergency response plan.

How to Avoid a Flash Flood?

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

Flash Flood

Edgewater, Maryland is in the middle of Hurricane Season 2020 and the National Weather Service predicts we will have an extremely active season. One hazard Anne Arundel County often sees is flash floods.

Flooding from heavy rains is the second leading cause of fatalities from landfalling tropical cyclones. Widespread torrential rains associated with these storms often cause flooding hundreds of miles inland. This flooding can persist for several days after a storm has dissipated.

Flash floods are the most dangerous kind of floods, because they combine the destructive power of a flood with incredible speed. Flash floods occur when heavy rainfall exceeds the ability of the ground to absorb it.

If your area is under a Flash Flood Warning or a Flood Warning, you need to take action. This means a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground.

Water moving at 9 feet per second is a common speed for flash floods. At this speed, water can move rocks weighing almost a hundred pounds. Flash floods carry debris that elevate their potential to damage structures and injure people.Most fatalities in the US from flash flooding are from vehicles driving into flooded roadways.

Turn around, don’t drown! 

Does Water Need To Be Removed Immediately?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Edgewater Water Damage

When it comes to water damage in an Edgewater home or a Churchton building, it’s important to remove the water as quickly as possible in order to avoid additional damage. Water damage can quickly lead to mold damage within 48 hours, especially when combined with the heat and humidity that we experience here in Anne Arundel County.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is the cleanup team that is faster to any size disaster. Recently, Hurricane Isaias dumped up to 6 inches of rain on Maryland. A small leak from flood waters now could blossom into a big claim later.

No matter what time of day or night, water damage is an emergency. Emergency mitigation means under our SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can be onsite within 4 hours to begin drying your building and restoring contents.

Water from a hurricane or from a pipe leak needs to be mitigated quickly, trust our SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian team to ensure your property is taken care of in a timely manner.

Can I Protect My Property From Mold?

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Edgewater Building Water Damage

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian specializes in mold remediation. It’s common for us to get called to commercial buildings with mold problems. Even small water damages have the potential to cause indoor air quality over time. 

As a property manager, here are a few things you can do to keep mold away:

• Keep the humidity between 30-60 percent.
• Provide for proper drainage away from the building foundation.
• Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
• Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
• Inspect the roof, windows and other areas where water might enter the building and perform necessary maintenance. 
• Respond to all water intrusions immediately.

Got mold? Contact us, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian at (410) 867-3590 for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold.

Are You Prepared?

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

2020 Hurricane Names List

We are in the middle of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, are you prepared? Is your property prepared? 

Anne Arundel County provides a step-by-step guide to help you get prepared. Click here to access the guide.

The Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management has published it’s Hurricane Outlook for 2020. Click here to access their predictions.

Ever wonder how hurricanes get their names? Meteorologists long ago learned that naming tropical storms and hurricanes helps people remember the storms, communicate about them more effectively, and so stay safer if and when a particular storm strikes a coast. These experts assign names to hurricanes according to a formal list of names that is approved before the start of each hurricane season. Click here to learn more. 

The Atlantic Hurricane names list for 2020 is as follows:

Arthur

Bertha

Cristobal

Dolly

Edouard

Fay

Gonzalo

Hanna

Isaias

Josephine

Kyle

Laura

Marco

Nana

Omar

Paulette

Rene

Sally

Teddy

Vicky

Wilfred

At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, we recommend you pay attention to the weather and should the unexpected water intrusion happen, we want you to keep the following in mind:

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

Click here for more information on keeping your property safe when you have water damage.

Eliminating the Harmful Microbes and Odor from Flood Damage

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Storm Water Damage

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian knows how to get you back to normal in no time when you have flood/storm water in your Edgewater home. Don’t let a flood in your Edgewater property get you down! We will be there to help 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

There are many potential issues left behind after flood water enters and damages your home. Once the water enters, the damage begins almost immediately and compounds from there. Flood water is never clean and often has toxins, sludge, and sewage.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian technicians understand the importance of testing the Edgewater, Maryland flood waters.  The tests will point them in the right direction so they can properly apply chemical treatments to neutralize different types of bacteria and microbes correctly. We use moisture meters to detect moisture in materials. 

Moisture Supports Microbial Growth

The removal of moisture is crucial in stopping the spread and growth of harmful bacteria and microbes. Mold spores germinate quickly, and colonies spread unless dealt with swiftly. Because the technicians hold IICRC certifications, they know the early warning signs. Technicians use a combination of extraction and dehumidification to remove moist air and replace it with warm, dry air. The use of air movers works to pull moisture up and out of walls and flooring and used in tandem with dehumidifiers.

When flood damage is the problem in your home, contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian as soon as possible. The technicians will arrive quickly and clean up the mess along with offering their reconstruction services.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian will make the incident "Like it never even happened."

What Does Reopening Your Business Look Like?

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Certified Clean

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian has been sanitizing facilities that are getting ready to reopen. From restaurants to retail locations, business owners are following guidelines set forth by our local government. We keep hearing, “It’s time to reopen.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian has been working with our local officials to insure the proactive cleaning and sanitizing of many facilities throughout Anne Arundel County. We’ve worked in schools, government facilities, as well as general office spaces.

On Monday, May 18, Anne Arundel County Executive Stuart Pittman provided us with guidelines for reopening. Since then, we’ve received numerous requests to sanitize different commercial properties. Click here to read more about our COVID-19 cleaning process.

Take a look at how Zachary’s Jewelers plans to reopen.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. 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. We are cleaning experts.

Water Damage for Facility Managers

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Office Building

Apartment Building

Facility Managers often implement evacuation plans should an emergency occur. In addition, to an evacuation plan, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian recommends you do the following should a water emergency arise:

• Shut off the water source.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

Our team provides a solution to water damage needs. Our IICRC certified water damage restoration technicians will communicate with the facility manager throughout the restoration process.

When a tenant reports a water damage event, please collect the following information:

• Contact phone number
• Date/time of event
• Source of water
• Type of water
• Is the water clean, gray or sewer?
• Is there any structural damage?
• Is electricity available?
• Is there standing water?
• What areas are affected?

You can reduce loss severity by putting the above suggestions into your water emergency plan. Remember, fast response can lower claim costs!

How do Businesses Handle Cleaning Because of the Coronavirus?

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Sanitizing with Foggers

As businesses have settled into the new normal of telework, and essential work environments, they also implement new cleaning practices. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has extensive experience with bio-remediation cleanup. This is something our team has done for over 40 years.

The question is, how does your local small business handle Coronavirus cleanup and sanitization?

As small business owners in Anne Arundel County, there are many resources to help you understand the COVID-19 virus. It’s important to understand the virus so you can make a plan for regular cleaning and sanitization. Click here for more information on Coronavirus in our community.

The county has many regulations regarding which businesses can reopen and how essential businesses are operating. Click here to review those guidelines.

The most important factor of opening your business is keeping your employees healthy and safe. The way you do that is by following the Anne Arundel County’s Health Department Compliance Notice. This includes cleaning and sanitizing between shifts.

However you choose to operate your business, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is here to help. If you have questions or would like an estimate on proactive sanitization, including our fogging procedure, please feel free to contact us.

What are the Differences Between Janitorial Services and Commercial Cleaning for COVID-19?

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

COVID-19 Cleaning

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is being called on by numerous business and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean and sanitize their properties for COVID-19.  

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and sanitize your business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. 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. 

Here are 4 things that show how our cleaning is different than janitorial cleaning: 

IICRC Certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Not only is SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian IICRC certified as a firm, but most members of our staff carry several IICRC certifications. 

Cleaning Experts. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets,  and tables at a minimum. Most of our cleaning tactics will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis 

The CDC also recommends regular cleaning of the following areas/items: 

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

Cleaning Products. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered 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.  

Our proprietary cleaning agents, Benefect and Shockwave, are EPA-certified, hospital-grade disinfectants that have demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19) on hard, non-porus surfaces. 

We carry multiple hospital-grade disinfectants and provide our personnel with proper PPE. Not only does this protect veryone, but it also protects the building and people in it.   

Cleaning Procedures. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian technicians are experts in infectious disease cleanup and bio-hazard cleaning. We are a member in American Bio Recovery Association (ABRA). Our proven cleaning procedures and protocols have been used to clean and sanitize rhinovirus and norovirus in the past. We are implementing similar protocols, and we are "battle tested" in regards to virus cleanup. 

Bring the professionals in! Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian (410) 867-3590. 

We are Cleaning Experts

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help

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 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 Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian at (410) 867-3590.

How Does Mold Effect Indoor Air Quality?

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Air Quality

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian performs mold remediation and restoration services. When we get calls regarding odor, allergies, and respiratory issues, we may recommend Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) testing. With any health issues, it’s important to contact your physician first. Allergy testing, for example, should reveal specific allergies.

Molds can be found almost anywhere. They can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. Outdoors, molds play a part in nature by breaking down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is a measure of how clean the air is inside the buildings where we live, work, and play. IAQ is affected by many different things:

• a building’s ventilation system (HVAC)
• chemicals or microbes (such as mold) that enter the building
• chemicals like cleaning products and art supplies that are used in the building
• chemicals that are created by activities inside the building

Click here to review the Environmental Protection Agency’s Guide to Indoor Air Quality.

If you have concerns about mold or IAQ, contact us or contact Environmental Solutions Inc.

Why is Candle Smoke Flammable?

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Tea Candles

The cheapest and most widely used candle is made of paraffin—which is derived from petroleum. When burned, it releases a toxin called toluene, which has been found to cause DNA strand breakdown, affecting the nervous system.

When you are burning a candle, you are essentially vaporizing the liquid wax into a gas that is flammable. This vapor can then be used as fuel for the candle flame. It is this vaporized wax that fuels all candle flames used with conventional wax-based candles. Click here to read more.

Smoke from candles is actually soot. Smoke is just soot and other particulates carried on the hot air rising off the flame. When you put the top on a jarred candle and trap the smoke, it cools. And, the particulates in the candle settle onto the candle and the inside walls of the jar.

Fireplaces, cigarettes and the burning of candles can all result in soot stains on walls. Though soot collects on other surfaces in the home, soot stains are easy to spot on light-colored walls. Aside from being unattractive, soot can create a health hazard.

In general, candles won’t set off your smoke alarm. However, they can cause a fire. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has provided fire damage remediation and reconstruction to several properties where candles were the cause of the fires.

How big is SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian?

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Contact Information

SERVPRO Industries has more than 1,700 franchises that are operating nationwide, and SERVPRO continues to grow. The need for experienced, IICRC certified, trained, and professional cleanup and restoration experts is recession resistant, and the growth potential inside of a proven system presents an opportunity for prospective franchisees.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is a woman-owned business. This franchise shares the same owner as the SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park and currently employs 22 people that operate out of a 10,000 square foot facility in Arnold, Maryland.

Our facility is so vast that we store and restore property right on location. For example, if your dining room set has smoke/soot damage, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can restore the damage and store your furniture while your home is being mitigated and restored.

Being the largest restoration company in the industry provides SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian with all the resources to necessary to leave your property “Like it never even happened.”

Does Water Damage Floors?

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage on Floor

Customers often ask SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian if water damages flooring. The answer isn’t always straight forward. Depending on the type of flooring you have, water damage may not occur. Here are some general answers:

Laminate Floors. The top of laminate flooring is technically resistant to water damage. If you spill some water on laminate flooring but promptly wipe it up, then the floor will suffer no damage. Unfortunately, the situation changes if and when flooding occurs. If and when laminate flooring becomes saturated with water, it becomes warped and damaged.

Hardwood Floors. Whether it’s raining outside and water managed to get onto your hardwood floors or there’s a spill or leak within your house, when your wood floors are exposed to water or moisture, they are at risk of cupping and permanently damaged. At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian we can use Rescue Mats to dry hardwood floors. Rescue Mats pull moisture out of the floor with a vacuum.

Tile Floors. Ceramic floor tiles are not harmed by standing water but it can damage the grout between the tiles and detach the adhesive. The damage may not become noticeable for many weeks or even months, until after flood waters have diminished. Rescue Mats can be used on tile floors to remove moisture in the grout as well as sub floors.

If you feel your floors need further inspection due to a recent water damage, please reach out to us at (410) 867-3590.

What is Water Damage Mitigation?

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Water emergencies can happen at any time…A pipe can break in the middle of the night, or a heavy rain can cause a flooded basement. That’s why SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian performs water mitigation as well as water restoration services 24/7.

If your home or business suffers from a water intrusion, our top priority is time. Time is of the essence when it comes to mitigating the water damage. Once the source of the water has been contained, our water mitigation team will move swiftly to get your property and contents dry.

Our equipment removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and truck-mounted vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property. And, yes, we’ve had to remove that much water.

If your home or business requires extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can conduct an organized, efficient move-out to protect your belongings from further damage.

Water Mitigation is the first step in the water damage process. The next step involves water restoration and, finally, reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian prides ourselves on being the one-stop shop for water mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction.

Winter Safety Driving Tips

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Drive Safely

Weather conditions in Maryland change quickly during the winter months. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian wants to make sure you are safe while driving during a winter storm. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

You Snooze you Lose. Don’t hit the snooze button — give yourself extra time when weather is bad. Drivers who give themselves extra time to get to their destination help ensure a safe and appropriate speed for road conditions, and an adequate following distance.

Sharing the Road with School Buses. In all 50 states, it’s illegal to pass a school bus that has its stop arm out and red flashing lights on. It’s estimated that 70,000 drivers break this law every school day, causing close calls and injuries to children. Everyone plays a role in ensuring students get to school safety, so please use caution and maintain a safe following distance. Click here to view a Maryland School Bus laws.

Make sure the wiper blades, tires, battery and defroster are in good working condition before inclement weather hits. Keep the vehicle’s gas tank full and check window washer fluid levels. Driving is a visual task, so always be sure your windows and mirrors are clean and clear and your visibility is good.

Pedestrians are more likely to be rushing during cold temperatures and could be hidden by poor visibility or snow banks. Remain alert for children who may be hidden or standing in or near the street at the bus stop due to mounds of plowed snow.

Adjust your driving behavior to the weather conditions. During winter, this often requires slowing down and increasing your following distance. Anticipate that bridges and overpasses may be frozen, even if the roadway is not, and minimize acceleration and hard-braking.

Residential Fire Damage

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian performed fire restoration and reconstruction services on this home after it suffered tremendous fire damage. We can work with your insurance company to get your home restored as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Here are some recommendations on what you can do until help arrives:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
• Coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
• Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
• Do not clean any electrical equipment.
• Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has national accounts with many insurance companies, including Metlift, Homesite, Erie, Travelers and more. Our estimators and project managers can work with policy holders, agents, and adjusters to make an insurance claim as seamless as possible.

Our primary focus is to help make it… “Like it never even happened.”

Faster to any Disaster

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Response Time

Faster to any Disaster

Homeowners and property managers trust SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian because of our response time. SERVPRO Industries requires each franchise to respond quickly to any size disaster.

We care about readiness for our community, we are faster than our competition, we are the trusted leader with a Here to Help customer service philosophy that involves listening to our customer and providing solutions in a variety of ways, and we validate industry standards through DryBook™. The SERVPRO® DryBook™ is a proprietary tool that manages industry requirements on drying to validate your restoration is done to standard. This improves results, restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home or business sooner.

Did you know that SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is open 24/7/365? Weather a job is big or small, our team will be there to help make it “Like it never even happened,” so you can get back to your home or business and on with your life.

When a disaster puts the things that matter most to you on the line, you want to contact the team that is faster to any disaster.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Customers

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

Diane Whittles

Do you know each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated? The SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian franchise is owned by Diane Whittles. Diane has spent her entire life in Anne Arundel County, and is proud of the business she created.

Diane became the owner of SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park after her husband passed away in 2012.  Our franchise is a woman-owned minority business enterprise and certified by the state of Maryland.  Since Diane’s time at the helm, she has grown the business exponentially. In 2018, she purchased her third SERVPRO franchise, SERVPRO OF Pasadena/Gibson Island/Lake Shore.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has been so successful because of the team Diane has put together. The team is well-trained and highly educated. Team members communicate well with each other and work hard to ensure customer satisfaction. This is why our customers work with SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian.

Get Winter Ready!

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Frozen Pipe

Freezing temperatures will soon be upon us and unfortunately frozen sprinkler pipes may be a result. Maryland weather can be very unpredictable and winter is on its way. Are you winter and snow ready?

Did you know a sprinkler pipe at a typical flow rate of 30 gallons per minute can expel as much as 500 gallons of water in 15 minutes. Imagine you are at work when a sprinkler pipe bursts in your neighbor’s unit or worse yet your own. 

According to the Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management (OEM), the Winter outlook says that “temperatures are favored to be above average with no parts favored to be colder than average; precipitation includes wetter-than-average conditions; and drought conditions will continue to improve….” Click here to read more.

• Here are a few tips to consider for your family:
• Make a family communications plan while together for the holidays.
• Travel safely, well-rested, and during daylight hours.
• Keep space heaters on a single electrical cord and at least 3 feet away from flammable objects.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian wishes you a safe winter.

Holiday Fire Emergency Tips

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Christmas Tree Fire

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your home/business and property to pre-fire condition.. A fire is always difficult and especially during the holiday season. Here’s a few holiday emergency tips to keep your property safe:

• Keep space heaters on a single electrical cord and at least three feet away from flammable objects.
• Check the water in your tree every day. A dry tree Is very flammable.
• Before guests arrive for the holidays, check your smoke alarm batteries.
• Get your chimney checked by a professional before lighting the fireplace.
• Keep candles away from flammable materials, better yet use flameless candles.
• Unattended cooking is the leading cause of house fires.
• Keep an eye on what you fry! Most cooking fires start when frying food.
• During the holidays, do not overload extension cords.
• Always turn off holiday lights at night or when you leave your home or office.

Be fire smart as you deck the halls this season! Give the gift of emergency preparedness, develop a SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).

Prepare Your Business for Winter

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Winter Weather

Winter is on its way, is your business ready? SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can help prepare your business with an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP). But, here are 5 tips you can implement yourself:

1. Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
2. Stay tuned to radio or television for quickly changing weather conditions.
3. Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.
4. Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water could be present.
5. Stay aware of your surroundings when holiday shopping especially at night. If you see something…say something. Call 9-1-1.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can provide you with assistance by developing an ERP. As part of a well thought-out Contingency Plan, your ERP will contain information you need in the event an emergency situation occurs. To get started, call us today (410) 867-3590.

Why SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian

11/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian

As a franchise of SERVPRO Industries, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is required to adhere to several standards. Some of these standards include: brand recognition, training, and quality controls. Let’s dive deeper into each of these topics.

Brand Recognition. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian follows a Brand Identity Guide that is updated regularly. Nationally developed brand standards include logo design as well as how the logo is used in advertising. Brand standard colors and fonts are used throughout the nation to develop a brand that is impossible to miss.

Training. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Certifications include:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• CMR - IAQC Certified Mold Remediator
• CMT - Certified Mold Technician
• CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
• CPM - IAQC Mold Certified Project Manager
• CRMR - Council-Certified Residential Microbial Remediator
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and Safety Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Quality Controls. Just like other successful businesses, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has clearly documented processes in place to insure proper disaster cleanup. Whether your property suffers water damage or needs mold remediation, we have a proven plan to restore the damage.

Our franchise has over 45 years of leadership in cleanup and restoration. When fire, water, mold, and other damage take control of your life, we help you take it back.

How to Prevent Your Sump Pump From Freezing

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Sump Pump Water Damage

Winter weather is quickly approaching. Did you know your sump pump discharge lines faces the risk of freezing? Your sump pump is designed to keep all excess water out from your basement, but it can’t do that if the discharge line is frozen. A frozen discharge line not only puts your basement at risk, but it can seriously damage your sump pump.

Here are some warning signs of a damaged sump pump:

• Your sump pump is constantly running. If your sump pump is constantly running, it could mean a number of problems, call a plumber.
• Frequent on and off cycling. A sump pump that constantly turns on and off could imply several problems and it should be inspected by a plumber.
• Wet areas. Because a sump pump is designed to remove any excess water from your basement, it’s best to be located at the lowest spot on the floor. If you can’t locate your sump pump at the lowest spot, installing a PVC feed line should help to remove any remaining excess water.
• Odors and humidity. Sump pumps have an airtight lid that’s designed to keep all odors humidity from rising out of the sump pit. If you smell something foul coming out of your sump pump, you might have a loose or broken lid.

Here are a few tips to prevent the sump pump drainage line from freezing:

• Keep your water running. One reason for your plumbing freezing is if there is any excess water that isn’t running. If the water can’t flow throughout your house, it’s more likely that any water inside your sump pump will freeze.
• Prevent the water from meeting freezing air. The best way to prevent a discharge line from freezing is with as much insulation as possible. To achieve this, you can try burying the line deeper underground, or try adding insulation using hay and a tarp.
• Give your sump pump a slight slope. One of the easiest ways to prevent a frozen discharge line is by letting gravity do the work. When you’re looking at where the sump pump lines go, try and see if you can make them go at a slope versus a straight line, as gravity will help keep the water running. If your house isn’t on a natural slope, you can make one.
• Add some insulation. Just like the pipes running through your home, adding some insulation can help drastically prevent a frozen discharge line. To properly insulate your discharge line, you should be able to find what you need at a local hardware store.

Nothing is worse than having damaged plumbing in the dead of winter because it can result in costly damages. You can keep your sump pump discharge line running properly this winter and all it involves is some maintenance.

What Happens When Water Sits?

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water

Water is so powerful that it can form mountains. But, when water is left sitting in your property it can become hazardous to your health. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian restored a property where a basement leak left standing water in a home for 2 weeks untreated. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian employees IICRC Water Mitigation Technicians that can properly treat a property with stagnant water.

Standing water is a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and parasites that can be harmful to your health. While contaminated water poses a bigger health risk, bacteria will even grow in clean water. Mold can begin to grow and spread in as little as 48 hours.

A home experienced a basement water intrusion that went undetected for 2 weeks while the homeowner was hospitalized. Based on the insurance adjuster’s suggestion, the homeowner contacted SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian when he witnessed the amount of stagnant water as well as mold in the property. The complete basement and first level of the home, up to the ceiling, was covered in mold. This included couches, kitchen cabinets, flooring, and walls…everything you can think of. Our team provided water extraction, drying, dhimmification, as well as mold mitigation. They use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is highly qualified to handle stagnant water. Our team members are certified and well-trained in water damage and mold mitigation. When standing water is found in your property, remember the team that is faster to any sized disaster, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian.

What Happens When Water Sits in the Basement?

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Source of Water Damage

One of the most common calls SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian receives is water damage in the basement of a home. Water always seeks to go from high ground to low ground which is why it usually causes damage in a lower level.

When water damage occurs, mold and/or bacteria can begin to form is as little as 48 hours. Recently, a Davidsonville homeowner contacted SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian because a broken drain pipe seal in their finished basement caused water and mold damage. There was damage in the closet, main living area, walls and vents.

The best thing you can do to protect your property is to determine the source of the water leak. Once the cause has been determined and repaired by a plumber, mitigation can begin.

Contact your homeowner’s insurance provider to notify them of the issue. They will assist you with submitting a claim.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian works with all insurance providers and we streamline the claim process. When we arrive at your home, we will inspect the damaged area to ensure proper drying and dehumidification, cleaning and repair.

Otherwise, mold and bacteria can begin to grow. If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours.
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems.
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting.

When water damage puts your home at risk, call the water mitigation specialists at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian.

How to Prevent Mold Growth?

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Growth

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. The most common cause of mold is water intrusion. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian handles water damages every day and knows prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.

Review these prevention tips our team developed:

Clean and Ventilate Your Bathroom. Mold growing in bathroom tile Mold grows quickly and thrives in warm, moist areas. It’s important to stop mold from spreading before it starts growing on walls and other locations. The best way to avoid mold growth is to keep your home clean and dry.

Keep humidity levels in your home as low as you can—no higher than 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. You can buy a meter to check your home’s humidity at a home improvement store. Humidity levels change over the course of a day so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.

Fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible. Standing water can grow bacteria and mold in as little as 48 hours. Mold needs moisture to grow and the best way to prevent this from happening is to cut the liquid source from them. As soon as a pipe or roof leaks, wet materials, especially drywall which is high in cellulose, should be removed and replaced.

Got Mold? Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian 

What To Do With Fire and Smoke Damage

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has the specialized fire restoration training needed to restore your property to pre-fire condition. Click here to review our complete fire damage restoration process. Every fire is different, and smoke and soot creates a unique type of damage.

Here are 4 tips to keep in mind with fire and smoke damage:

1. Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
2. Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
3. If electricity is off, empty your freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
4. Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.

Fires can happen at any time, day or night. The most important thing is quick response time. That’s why SERVPRO of Edgewater/Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

How Do Smoke Detectors Work?

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke Detector

October 6 – October 12 is Fire Prevention Week and smoke detectors play a huge role in preventing loss and injury with property fires. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian wants to know how smoke detectors really work. So, we’ve done some research.

First, there are 2 common types of smoke detectors: ionization detectors and photoelectric detectors. Most smoke alarms use these types of detection as well as heat to warn of a fire.

Ionization Smoke Detectors have a chamber and a source of ionizing radiation. If smoke enters the ionization chamber, the smoke particles attach to the ions and neutralize them, so they do not reach the plate. The drop in current between the plates triggers the alarm.

Photoelectric Detectors contain a T-shaped chamber with a light-emitting diode (LED) that shoots a beam of light across the horizontal bar of the T. When smoke blocks the light beam, the reduction in light reaching a photocell triggers the alarm.

So, which type of smoke detector do you need for your property? Both ionization and photoelectric detectors are effective smoke sensors. Both types of smoke detectors must pass the same test to be certified. Ionization detectors respond more quickly to flaming fires with smaller combustion particles; photoelectric detectors respond more quickly to smoldering fires.

To learn more about the type of smoke detectors your property needs, refer to Maryland Law.

Create a Fire Evacuation Plan

9/20/2019 (Permalink)

Evacuation Fire Escape

October 6 – 12, 2019 is National Fire Prevention Week.

In a fire, mere seconds can mean the difference between a safe escape and a tragedy. Fire safety education isn’t just for children. Teenagers, adults, and the elderly are also at risk in fires, making it important for every member of the community to take some time during Fire Prevention Week to make sure they understand how to stay safe in case of a fire.

A wide variety of emergencies both man-made and natural, may require a workplace to be evacuated. These emergencies include - fires, explosions, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, toxic material releases, radiological and biological accidents, civil disturbances and workplace violence. 

To ensure the fastest emergency action plan, consider the following:

• Similar to a home fire drill, start your fire evacuation plan with a map. These maps should include locations of exits, assembly points, and equipment (such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, spill kits) that may be needed in an emergency.
• Many employers designate individuals as evacuation wardens to help move employees from danger to safe areas during an emergency. Generally, one warden for every 20 employees should be adequate, and the appropriate number of wardens should be available at all times during working hours.
• Certain equipment and processes must be shut down in stages or over time. Establish a method for accounting for non-employees such as suppliers and customers.

For more information on workplace evacuation plans and procedures, visit www.osha.gov.

Emergency situations are an unfortunate reality in workplaces and homes. If your prepared for these events, your employees and families are more likely to be protected.

SERVPRO of Pasadena/Gibson Island/Lake Shore is a woman-owned independent franchise. For more information, call (410) 255-1100.

Protect Your Property During a Power Outage

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Thunderstorm

September is peak thunderstorm season. The warm air, the rolling sound of the thunder in the background and the streaks of lightning light up the night sky is like natures version of fireworks. However, with every thunderstorm, there is the probability of a power outage. Here are 4 things SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian recommends in the event of a power outage:

Be Prepared. The best way to ensure business continuity is by being prepared. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can help you develop an Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP). Subscribe to the Annapolis city CivicReady program to get emergency alerts.

Install Surge Protectors. Install a plug-in, point-of-use electrical surge protector. You plug this device into a grounded electrical outlet and plug your appliances and computers into the surge protector.  

Battery Backups. If your property has a sump pump in the basement or crawl space, make sure the sump pump has a battery backup. Battery backsups are also important for network servers.

Contact Utility Company. When your office or home loses power, be sure to contact BGE, which provides power to most of Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Visit www.bge.com or call to report outages at 877-778-2222. If you see sparking power lines, immediately call 9-1-1.

Normally, a short power outage is no big deal, but the longer the power is out the potential for damage to a home or business increases.

BARN FIRE SAFETY

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

Anne Arundel County has many barn structures. In 2016, over 60 firefighters fought a barn fire in Lothian. Howard County saw a huge barn fire in July of this year. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian wants to ensure your barn is safe.

Agriculture remains a top industry in Maryland with 381 farms totaling 28,111 acres in Anne Arundel County alone.  Anne Arundel County has resources in place to support our county farmers and agricultural producers and meet the needs of the agricultural business community.

Many of the agricultural barns are located in Southern Anne Arundel County. Fire safety is an important part of farm life. People, animals, and property are in danger when fire breaks out on a farm. Inspect your barn and outbuildings for fire hazards to reduce the risk of tragic loss:

Heat lamps and space heaters are kept a safe distance from anything that can burn.

• Electrical equipment is labeled for agricultural or commercial use.
• Lightbulbs have covers to protect them from dust, moisture, and breakage.
• Dust and cobwebs around electrical outlets and lights are removed.
• Oily rags are stored in a closed, metal container away from heat.
• Feed, hay, straw, and flammable liquids are stored away from the barn.
• Exits are clearly marked and pathways are clear.

Barns are required to have certain safety equipment including:

• ABC-type fire extinguishers near every exit and within 50 feet from any point in the barn.
• Fire alarm system
• Sprinkler system
• Carbon monoxide detection system.

For more information on barn safety, contact the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC).

Is Your Property Ready for Whatever Happens?

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness and with the horrors of Hurricane Dorian fresh on everyone’s mind, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian wants to ensure you are prepared.

Here are three tips to help you prepare:

Create an emergency kit.

• Water - one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food - at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Get an Emergency Ready Profile.

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing remediation work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

Know what is happening in Anne Arundel County.

• Watch Hurricane Preparedness Tips from the City of Annapolis.
• Register for Alert Annapolis. Alert Annapolis will deliver customized general or emergency messages directly your businesses via email.
• Attend the Emergency Preparedness Expo on September 21.

If disaster strikes, will you be ready?

Prepare for a Power Outage

8/22/2019 (Permalink)

Power Lines

Summer thunderstorms can be exciting to watch from a safe distance. The rolling sound of the thunder in the background and the streaks of lightning light up the night sky is like natures version of July 4^th fireworks. However, with every thunderstorm, there is the probability of a power outage. Here are 4 things SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian recommends in the event of a power outage:

Install Surge Protectors. Install a plug-in, point-of-use electrical surge protector. You plug this device into a grounded electrical outlet and plug your appliances and computers into the surge protector. Click here for more information on surge protection.

Be Prepared. The best way to ensure business continuity is by being prepared. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can help you develop an Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP). An ERP is a disaster plan to help your business be ready for whatever happens.

Battery Backups. If your property has a sump pump in the basement or crawl space, make sure the sump pump has a battery backup. Battery backsups are also important for network servers.

Contact Utility Company. When your office or home loses power, be sure to contact BGE, which provides power to most of Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Visit www.bge.com or call to report outages at 877-778-2222. If you see sparking power lines, immediately call 9-1-1.

Normally, a short power outage is no big deal, but the longer the power is out the potential for damage to a home or business increases.

What Happens To Hardwood Floors With Water Damage?

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

Hardwood Floor Drying

Did you know that SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can dry water from wood floors? There is a science behind this and our SERVPRO technicians have been training to restore water-damaged wood floors.

A wet property or building can sometimes dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. At SERVPRO, we try to help speed up the drying process with technology and proven drying methodologies. When materials (including wood flooring) are wet, moisture will naturally move to the drier air surface, but only if the air is drying.

This is why SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian uses de-humidifiers and air movers to keep the air at the surface of the hardwood flooring dry…to pull the moisture away from the sub-flooring as well as the wood. Our team uses a piece of equipment, Injecti-Dry, to ensure the hardwood is completely dry.

It’s not only the equipment but the technology too! SERVPRO has developed DryBook™, a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation and updates on the drying process and helps ensure industry drying requirements are met. With DryBook™ Mobile, you have the ability to know exactly where your property is in the drying process.

Bottom line…if your hardwood floor has water damage, we can dry them.

School Construction Cleaning

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

School Restroom

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian are experts in Post-Construction Cleaning. Interior and exterior cleaning is needed after construction services. We provide debris removal services to prepare the building for interior design. During construction, buildings can trap moisture. If you think your building has a moisture issue, we will provide the help you need to eliminate moisture. Schools and Commercial buildings have trusted us with the dirty work before a grand opening or even a renovation.

We provide cleaning services to your building. Want to make an office space or classroom look brand new? Bring in our professionals to clean your carpets, upholstery, ceilings, walls, fixtures, deodorization, air duct cleaning, debris removal, and window cleaning. No job is too big or small for us.

If your property is needs Post-Construction Cleaning, give SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian a call at 410 867 3590

Storm Breaks Heatwave

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Tree Fell in Road

Maryland has recently experienced a serious heatwave. The storms on July 22, 2019, brought a much-needed break to the heat, but it also brought flash floods and water damage to many properties in Anne Arundel County. SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothion was called to address water damage in several Edgewater properties.

According to WTOP, Anne Arundel County saw flash floods, power outages, and tornado warnings in neighboring Montgomery County. The National Weather Service confirmed a tornado that killed a man when a tree fell on him in his driveway.

Consider the following warning systems when preparing for an approaching storm:

• Subscribe to notifications from the Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management.
• Purchase a weather radio, which is designed to alert you to dangerous weather situations.
• Connect with the NOAA Weather Radio channel for your community.
• Subscribe to Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)

After the thunderstorms came through the Edgewater area on Monday, SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothion was called to address water damage in several properties. Stay storm safe by getting communication early!

Edgewater Water Damage

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

Refrigerator Water Line Leak

SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian recently worked on a property in Edgewater that suffered water damage. When there’s a water intrusion, like a leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home. It’s important to clean the water as soon as possible.

This townhome suffered water damage from a leaking water line to the refrigerator. A refrigerator water line usually lasts several years.  Warning: Unplug the refrigerator so you don’t get shocked or electrocuted! This leak caused water damage in the kitchen, basement hallway, ceiling, and carpeting. Typical refrigerator water lines are made of plastic. We recommend you change them to a sturdier material. You can read more about the other options for refrigerator lines in this article by Family Handyman.

If your property suffers water damage, keep in mind that water intrusions invade floors, ceilings, and walls to find the lowest point in the structure. Water from a refrigerator water line will search for pinhole crevices and cracks in your floors and walls looking for a way to travel down. SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian responds to water losses within 4 hours to start mitigation services. While we are on our way, remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying and place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.

Did you know mold can start growing within 24-48 hours after water damage? Mold can cause health effects and can also cause significant damage to your property. Make sure your property is properly dried if your refrigerator water line leaks. Call SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian to get professional water mitigation to service your property needs.

Risks of Lightning

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Thunderstorm

A lightning bolt is the width of a thumb and hotter than the sun. The temperature of lightning reaches five times hotter than the surface of the sun.

SERVPRO® of Edgewater/ Deale/ Churchton/ Lothian wants you to be safe this Summer when you’re outside in a Summer storm. Although most lightning occurs in the Summer, people can be struck any time of the year. Even though there may be a small chance of you or a loved one getting struck by lightning, it is important to know the factors of being struck.

Remember these tips:

• Be aware. Check the forecast before participating in outdoor activities.
• Go indoors. Remember the phrase, “When thunder roars, go indoors.” Find a safe, enclosed shelter when you hear thunder. Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.
• Avoid Windows, doors, porches, and concrete. Do not lie on concrete floors and avoid leaning on concrete walls. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.
• Avoid Water. Do not bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm because lightning can travel through a building’s plumbing.

National Weather Service (NWS) advises you to follow these steps if a loved one is struck:

• Call for help. Call 9-1-1.
• Give first aid. Begin CPR if you are trained.
• Use an Automatic External Defibrillator if one is available. These units are lifesavers!
• If possible, move the victim to a safer place. Lightning can strike twice and you don’t want to put yourself or the victim at risk.

For the latest storm forecasts, click here to visit the NWS website. SERVPRO® of Edgewater/ Deale/ Churchton/ Lothian wishes you a safe Summer.

"Like It Never Even Happened"

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

One candle caused a fire

The national slogan for SERVPRO® is "Like it never even happened." At SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian, we embodied this tagline with the work we performed at an Edgewater property fire. Not only did we mitigate the fire and water damage, we also reconstructed the property.

This house fire was started by one candle. The fire ripped through this family's home causing a significant amount of physical damage to four rooms. Fortunately, the family was unharmed physically. Firefighters stopped the fire, but left behind water damage. The water damage became a secondary loss for the home. This fire ended up being a large insurance loss, but the good news is that SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian was asked by the insured to mitigate the fire as well as reconstruct the damaged rooms in the property.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian specializes in fire and water restoration. We’ve received advance training in restoration techniques, and we have the experience and specialized equipment to quickly restore your property. This “restore first” mentality also allows us to get your home or business back to pre-fire condition quicker and with less disruption.

In addition to restoration, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has the capability to reconstruct. This includes installing drywall, replacing flooring and/or carpeting. We can also provide painting, new cabinetry and even a new kitchen sink! We are a woman-owned business that has worked in the mitigation industry for 44 years.

Our mission, tagline, and slogan is “Like it never even happened”, and we are happy to be your one stop shop.

Fire Restoration Done Right

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Building Fire

When your office suffers a fire, the amount of damage may be the first thing on your mind. Fire damage is especially devastating for a commercial property. In addition to the fire and smoke damage, significant water damage from firefighting efforts and fire suppression systems may occur. Restoring your work space after a fire involves 3 restoration facets: water damage, smoke damage, and fire damage. Our goal at SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is to get your business up and running as quickly as possible.

Technically, water is NOT part of a fire event. However, the hoses and amount of water used to extinguish a fire typically causes some sort of water damage. If this damage isn’t treated properly, the property may suffer mold damage later.

Smoke and Soot cause a large amount of damage in a property. Not only for the obvious discoloration, but for their harmful odors and contamination. Some structural framing can be treated for odor contamination, but most of the contents in a property affected by smoke and soot will need to be transported to our facility. In some cases, SERVPRO can remove odors in our ozone chamber and our Ultrasonic Cleaning Equipment can easily remove black soot that cannot be removed by human hands.

Finally, we can talk about the actual fire damage. Fires spread quickly and destroy furnishings and appliances but oftentimes, electronics can be restored to pre-fire condition. It’s important that these contents are disposed of properly. But, a very important element in fire restoration is to restore or remove the HVAC system to ensure no harmful particles will spread through the air and cause future health problems.

When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is open 24/7 and ready for emergency service.

Commercial Spring Cleaning

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Bacteria

Are you ready to tackle Spring cleaning in your facility? It seems like every year there are serious viruses or fungi that cause panic. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has performed a variety of commercial cleaning projects to tackle many serious health crises including the flu and bio hazard cleanup.

There is a deadly superbug known as Candida auris (C. auris) that was found recently in New York as well as Maryland and over 600 cases were reported in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently added C. auris to its list of “urgent threats”. Almost half of the individuals infected with C. auris die within 90 days.

Did you know the flu can live on hard surfaces for up to 24 hours? Could you imagine how many individuals are exposed to the flu at a school with 500 students? In 2017, the CDC reported that 80,000 people died from the flu.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe offices. Call the cleanup team that is faster to any size disaster.

Is Your Business Prepared for a Disaster?

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

Phil Dumenil, SERVPRO Commercial Marketing Representative

There are many qualities that separate SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian from the competition. But, one major difference is we help your business put together a disaster plan called an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).

Did you know that as many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster? The businesses that do survive have some type of preparedness plan in place. At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian we take this statistic seriously. That’s why we provide this free ERP service that prepares your business for whatever happens.

The ERP is a concise profile document/app that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It lists specific contact information for your insurance carrier, HVAC company, and other critical points of contact. In addition, the ERP identifies the location for emergency shut off valves, like water and gas. The ERP can also be accessed through a mobile application. Everyone always has their phone on them; now, they can have the plan right at their fingertips.

No one plans on a disaster, but you can plan to be “Ready for whatever happens.”

Gardening to Prevent Flood Water in Your Home

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

Water Garden

It’s that time of year! Spring is teasing you with warmer temperatures and you are ready to get your hands in the soil and start your Summer garden.  What kind of plants can you use and how can you layout your flowerbeds to prevent water from getting into your home?  Gardening doesn’t have to be all about “curb appeal”, it can also be functional.  Here are a some quick tips to help prevent water from getting into your home.

Create a water garden. A natural-looking water garden should have sloped sides with planting terraces that step down toward the deepest area of the pond. This allows you to plant a diversity of plant material and create different habitats and keeps water drainage to one area.

Plant native.  Using native plants can help prevent soil erosion.  Here are a list of wild flowers you might consider: black-eyed Susan, Foxglove Beardtongue, Cardinal Flower, and Butterfly Weed.  

Use mulch. Covering the bare areas in your lawn or garden with mulch or straw is an effective method for preventing erosion from rain. Mulch spread over the surface of the soil reduces the impact of raindrops striking the soil.  Using mulch in landscaping and on bare spots near your home keeps water away from your foundation.

TIP: Always wear a mask when spreading mulch. It contains mold spores that can irritate your throat, nasal passages, and lungs.

Install rain barrels. Did you know that up to 40% of total water use during the summer can come from watering lawns and gardens? Rain barrels are an effective way to capture rain water to use in lawns and gardens.  Rain barrels can be attached to storm drains to catch runoff from your roof.  The water you collect can then be reused to water your lawn and garden. For more information on rain barrels, contact The Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Grade your yard. To avoid incoming water, the ground should always slope away from your home in all directions surrounding your perimeter. You’ll need to understand the high and low points of your home, and use extra dirt to slope accordingly. Have a plan in place or work with a professional to make sure vents, basement windows, pipes, drains, and other areas aren’t negatively impacted during the grading process. 

The first day of Spring is March 20, 2019. Be ready for April showers by landscaping your lawn to prevent water damage to your home.

Why are Space Heaters so Dangerous?

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Space Heater Fires

When the cold winter weather hits, many people turn on space heaters. Generally speaking, space heaters are safe to use.  Fires occur mostly when space heaters are used improperly.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, space heaters account for 43% of home heating fires.  Here are some tips to ensure you use your space heater properly:

Use an electric space heater.  Iowa State University Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering warns that space heaters that use kerosene, propane, and natural gas pose an additional risk of releasing carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen dioxide into the air if they aren't properly vented, which can lead to serious health problems and even death.  Electric space heaters (when used properly) are always a safer device for indoor heating.

Plug your space heater directly into the wall outlet.  Never plug your electric space heater into an extension cord or power strip.  Space heaters are often the cause of electrical fires because they overload a circuit. 

Move your space heater away from clutter.  Always keep your space heater at least 3 feet away from any furniture or combustible items (including bedding and curtains). Remember to instruct children to remain 3 feet away from the heater too.

Turn your space heater off.  Whenever you leave the room or go to sleep, it is important to turn your space heater off.  Unplug the heater when it’s not in use by pulling the plug straight from the outlet. Check the cord for damage periodically, and don’t use it if it’s frayed or worn.

Space heaters are not dangerous if they are properly used.  Keep these safety tips in mind to prevent fire in your property.

We've Got Credentials

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

Teamwork

When a disaster strikes your property, the last thing you want to do is vet remediation companies. Trust a national brand with local presence, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian. Our team caries various certifications and our General Manager, Chris Goedeke, has more certifications than another other remediation specialist on our team.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Certifications

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• CMR - IAQC Certified Mold Remediator
• CMT - Certified Mold Technician
• CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
• CPM - IAQC Mold Certified Project Manager
• CRMR - Council-certified Residential Microbial Remediator
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Chris is the GENERAL MANAGER of SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian. Chris is an ACAC Certified Microbial Remediation Supervisor and a Certified Commercial Drying Specialist with 11 years of emergency response experience. He is IICRC certified in Water Damage Restoration, Applied Structural Drying, Fire and Smoke Restoration, Carpet Cleaning, Odor Control, Carpet Repair and Installation. He recently became an IICRC Master Water Restorer. Chris oversees all construction projects following a loss and heads up the Carpet and Hard Floor Sales Division.

Trust an industry leader at the local level. Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian for any restoration needs (410) 647-8181

Winter Weather and Water Safety

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Anne Arundel County contains several water ways and winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and a sidewalk to shovel. You are also at risk for frozen pipes and ice dams. 

With colder air and water temperatures, it’s crucial to be prepared for anything if you happen to be heading out on the water for any activity this winter –boating, kayaking, paddle boarding or even ice fishing and snowmobiling. 

If you plan to participate in any water activity this winter – know what will keep you safe! Click here to read more about Winter Water Safety. 

FROZEN PIPES Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside your house, or in cold areas such as basements, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets.  

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.  

To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take, according to The American Red Cross:  

• Be sure to completely drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler lines, as well as outside hoses. 
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing.  
• When the weather is extremely cold, let water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes. 
• Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.  

Ice dams can be a little-known, but major problem during the snowy season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas, as well as causing gutters and shingles to move or fall.  

Icicles can be an initial sign of an ice dam, according to Travelers.com. To spot ice dams inside, “check for water stains or moisture in your attic or along the ceiling of exterior walls of your house. Water stains or moisture may be an indication that an ice dam has formed and water has penetrated the roof membrane.”  

Removing an ice dam as soon as it is found is vital to helping prevent damage to your property and can be done using heated cables, a roof shovel, or calcium chloride ice melter.  

If winter weather causes water damage to you or your insured’s property, the SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian are only a call away, 24/7, ready to restore to preloss condition.  

When Winter Weather Strikes, We Strike Back

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

Ice Dam

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian wants your home or business to be prepared for winter weather.  Water damage can occur for different reasons during cold winter months.  Follow these winter weather tips to prevent water from damaging your property.

TIPS FOR PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR WINTER WEATHER

Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes.

Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.

Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off”.

Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.

Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of puffbacks.

TIPS FOR PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS FOR WINTER WEATHER

Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches.  Weather, such as wind, heavy rain, ice and snow, can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.

Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential.

Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water can be present.

Contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian for an Emergency Ready Profile for your business.

When water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. That’s why knowing the easiest ways to contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is so important. Just go to www.SERVPROedgewaterdeale-churchtonlothian.com on your mobile phone or call (410) 867-3590.

Winter Weather and Your Pets

1/9/2019 (Permalink)

Protect Your Pets From Winter Weather

It’s no surprise that Marylanders love their pets.  Your furry family members need to be safe during the winter just like humans.  At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian  we know that your pets are an important part of your family. Most pets in Anne Arundel County are indoor animals and those animals are prone to the same winter hazards as humans.  Here are a few quick tips to keep in mind for your furry friend.

Limit outdoor time on bitter cold days. Try to go out when the sun is shining. If you have a dog with fur, they can still suffer from hypothermia.  Hypothermia is when your body temperature falls to an abnormally low temperature, caused from long exposure to cold weather.  Dogs with long or short hair should have winter sweaters or coats to help them maintain their body temperature.

Avoid the ice. Animals can slip and fall just like you. More importantly, animals cannot recognize the danger of breaking through thin ice on frozen water. It is always better to keep your pet on a leash during the winter to help them steer clear of hazards.

Wipe their paws when you come inside. The streets and sidewalks of you neighborhood are often treated with salt or other de-icers. These substances can irritate your animal's paws. Some can be toxic, which is especially dangerous if your pet licks its paws.

People and pets want a safe place inside for the cold months. If a winter emergency, like a burst pipe, makes your home unsafe, contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian. We are here to help the residents of Anne Arundel County recover when winter storms hit. 

How to Train Employees for Fire Safety

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Practice Fire Safety

At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian we restore buildings after fires have taken place.  We encourage you to train your employees on some basic fire safety techniques on an annual basis.

Here’s a quick list of some techniques you should use.

Fire extinguisher training should be done on an annual basis, at least, and should also be part of the initial training for new employees.

The P.A.S.S Technique

If employees aren't confident they can safely put out a fire, they should evacuate instead. The acronym P.A.S.S. helps employees remember each step of using an extinguisher to reduce fire damage.

1. Pull the pin. Find the pin at the top of the canister and pull it out to break the tamper seal.
2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. When the source of water is doused, the flames should die down.
3. Squeeze the handle to release the pressurized chemicals inside the canister.
4. Sweep the spray from side to side, maintaining your focus at the base of the fire. 

After working through the steps, keep your eye on the area. If flames reappear, repeat steps 2 to 4.

Annual Fire Response Drills

Use the following steps in case of a fire (and during yearly drills.)

Pull the fire alarm and alert the fire department.

Protect the designated evacuation path. If fire, heat, or smoke threatens to come between employees and the exit, personnel should evacuate instead of fighting the fire.

Choose an appropriate extinguisher.

Complete the P.A.S.S. technique.

Observe the location of the fire to catch any flames that may reignite. 

Evacuate immediately if the fire is too big, if the air isn't safe to breathe, if the room is too hot or smoky, and/or if the evacuation path is compromised.

Once the ability to use the fire extinguisher has been mastered and employees have been trained in the fire response routine, schedule opportunities for employees to practice their responses to a fire.

Practice Safety

It doesn't take long for a kitchen fire to pop up in a restaurant or flames to appear in an industrial setting. Protect your employees with training on how to use a fire extinguisher and regular drills in fire safety techniques.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Facility

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Facility

If your home or business suffers from a water or fire loss, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian  is here to help. With over 18,000 square feet of warehouse space, we have the capacity to handle any size disaster.  Our experience and proven leadership (43 years!) in the restoration industry with mold remediation, fire and water damage and biohazard recovery along with our large facility make us your local restoration leader.                                    

There are several reasons why a large facility is important when selecting an emergency cleanup company.  At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian we have the capability to store (and clean if necessary) your belongings while your home or business is being repaired.  Our experienced crew will inventory and pack out your property carefully and efficiently.  Our content clean-  room houses state of art ultrasonic equipment that works miracles on soot damaged items.

From air scrubbers to dehumidifiers and air movers, we have the right equipment to get the job done.  The proper equipment allows a structure to dry properly and reduce further contamination and damage.

SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian Tackles Large Commercial Losses

12/13/2018 (Permalink)

High Rise Fire

When your Anne Arundel County business suffers a large loss from water, fire or natural disaster, you can count on SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Park to restore your facility.  Our project management staff is well-qualified to handle any disaster. Plus, we own the equipment needed to mitigate large loss fire and flood restoration.

As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster.  You can do this by taking three simple steps:

• Plan to stay in business
• Encourage your employees to become ready
• Protect your investment

At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Park we employee experienced leaders in the restoration industry that specialize in all varieties of emergency cleanup with the capacity for any size job.  Our team includes IICRC certified technicians.  The IICRC certification is the highest standard of cleaning and remediation.  We are American Bio Recovery Association certified in biohazard recovery/infectious disease and blood-borne pathogens.  Our crew chiefs provide complete job file maintenance and electronic communication protocols. And, as a service to SERVPRO nationwide, we are part of the SERVPRO Industries traveling “STORM” team. 

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Park owns a variety of specialized mitigation equipment, including testing and monitoring equipment.  Our 18,000 square foot warehouse facility houses over 45 warehouse crates providing extra-large storage capacity.  Our Ozone Room eradicates odor from business property and our clean room dedicated to content cleaning only.

When fire or water damage puts things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well.  That’s why knowing contacting SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Park is so important.

Are You Winter Weather Ready?

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

Winter Weather

Are you prepared for the cold Maryland weather? Cold weather can have a huge impact on your Edgewater home or business if you’re not ready for it. From freezing rain and low temperatures, to damaging winds, sleet or snow, can all cause serious and costly property damage. While you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to prepare your Davidsonville home or business.

To help prevent costly winter storm damages, consider taking the following precautions to protect your property before winter weather hits.

Check your Edgewater business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to your property and potentially cause personal injuries.

Inspect your roof, pipes, and gutters, downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Winter starts December 21, 2018 and leaves can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage.

Inspect all handrails, stairwells and entryways to address and correct potentially slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water or ice could be present.

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian to strike back.

Christmas Tree Safety

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Christmas Tree Fire

Edgewater and Anne Arundel County has seen it’s share of tragedies caused by Christmas tree fires.  As your family decks the halls this holiday season, SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian  encourages you to consider the following Christmas tree safety tips.

Selecting your Christmas Tree. Pick a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Setting up the tree.  Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.  Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.  Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.  Add water to the tree stand and be sure to add water daily.

Lighting the tree.  Use lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.  Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of light strands to connect.  Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.  Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

Additionally, after Christmas, get rid of your tree! Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.  Christmas trees must be free from all lights, ornamentation and tree bags in order to be picked up by Anne Arundel County Waste Management. Only natural trees will be collected and tall trees should be cut in half in order to fit into the collection truck.  Click here for more information on Anne Arundel County Yard Waste.

Mold Found in Severna Park Home

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

Mold caused by hot water heater

Mold found in Severna Park home basement was caused by a hot water heater leak.  The SERVPRO Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian  team arrived after the homeowner replaced the hot water heater.  However, the area in the basement was still wet despite the homeowner’s efforts to dry it out.  Our team dried the area around the hot water heater as well as the hallway for 3 days and treated it with an anti-microbial.  It was determined that the mold was caused by a pin-hole leak in the hot water heater that occurred months before the actual unit was replaced.

Water heaters that are not cleaned out periodically can build up sediment in the tank. Here are some hot water heater maintenance tips you can use

Salt and other chemicals in the sediment may lead to premature rusting or corrosion inside of a water heater and eventually cause pinhole leaks to form. Once a pinhole leak is opened up, the pressure of the water inside the tank forcing its way through the opening will cause the leak to get larger over time.

The best solution for this problem is to replace the tank with a new unit. A leaking tank is an obvious sign of a water heater needing to be replaced. Normally, replacing a water heater should be done by a professional.

Another tip, to prevent the pink-hole leak is to test the pressure-relief valve located on the top or side of the water heater. Click here to read more tips by The Family Handyman.

Bottom line, mold can grow on almost any surface. Mold likes moisture and heat. This makes the hot water heater and surrounding area the perfect environment for mold. Take some time to maintain your hot water heater.

Is Your Business Prepared for Winter?

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profile

Even the best-run businesses face risk of water, fire, natural disasters, and other damage during the winter season. SERVPRO of Edgewater/ Deale-Churchton/ Lothian can help your business prepare with an Emergency Ready Profile which can act as your business Disaster Recovery Plan.

First, here are some tips to get your building winterized. Allow cold water to drip from a faucet. Running water through a pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing. If a pipe has broken, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, which is usually at the water meter or where the main line enters the building. Remember to turn off office space heaters in the evening to reduce your fire risk.  To reduce heating costs, invest in air conditioner covers so cold air doesn’t come into your building where the in-take is located. Use weather strips and draft blockers to keep cold air out. SERVPRO of Edgewater/ Deale-Churchton/ Lothian recommends you take the time to winterize your building before the freezing weather settles in.

But even with all the winterization, building damage may be inevitable and that’s why we encourage you to create a plan to assist your team in an emergency event. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile is a no-cost assessment of your facility that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.  Things like insurance information, shut off valve locations with clearly identified photographs and emergency contact and account numbers are just a few of the components of a SERVPRO ERP.   It also serves as a guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster faster.  The ERP establishes SERVPRO of Edgewater/ Deale-Churchton/ Lothian as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.

While an ERP won’t completely insulate businesses from risks, a well-thought-out strategy can help minimize the impact.  Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/ Deale-Churchton/ Lothian for your FREE Emergency Ready Profile today.

Sump Pump Failure Leads to Flooded Basement

11/15/2018 (Permalink)

Sump Pump

During a recent rain event, SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian went to a home in Anne Arundel County to handle a sump pump failure.  Sump pump failures happen for a variety of reasons including power failure, stuck switch, overwhelmed pump and more.  For this specific home owner, there was a problem with their battery backup. 

When SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian assessed the water damage, our water damage and restoration team determined that the effected areas included the storage/sump pump room, the recreational room and a basement bathroom.

In the recreational room, the laminate floor was removed because there was bound water underneath. Air movers and de-humidifiers were set up to dry the concrete subfloor. The bathroom tile is adhered to concrete subfloor and won’t facilitate mold growth.  The SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian crew treated any effected areas with an anti-microbial and set air movers for a three day dry out.  Lastly, the storage/sump pump room was also treated with an anti-microbial and air movers were set for drying. Our crew removed all furniture during the cleanup process.

After 3 days of drying, the team monitored the effected materials and determined everything was dry.  All equipment was removed and the homeowners are ready to start with their reconstruction.

Bad weather storms and power failures often coincide to make one deadly combination that often results in flooded basements across Anne Arundel County.  This is due to the fact that the heavy rain storms result in excess water and a power outage completely immobilizes your sump pumps ability to drain water.

This problem can be avoided by simply purchasing and installing a backup generator for your sump pump. If you ever lose power during a bad storm, you can manually turn this generator on to ensure your basement does not flood.

Who is SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian?

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Team

Standing knee deep in a flooded basement, the last thing you may be considering is what clean-up company can provide you with an accurate scope of work to present to your insurance company.  So, before you select the company that is going to extract the water, you might want to know who SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian is.

SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian is a woman-owned business, owned by Severna Park native Diane Whittles.  Did you know she has owned this franchise for 42 years?  SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian employees around 25 Anne Arundel County residents, including some of Diane’s family members.

Craig Dellagatta, has been with SERVPRO for nearly two years.  Craig is a lead estimator specializing in mold remediation.  He served as a local police officer before joining our team. 

You can read more about the team on the SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian employee page.

Most of our employees have worked with SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian for years.  Diane insists and provides continuing education for all technicians throughout the year, ensuring that they are up do date on all the latest industry trends in remediation.  This is perhaps one of the reasons SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian is a local leader.

Record Rainfall for Anne Arundel County

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage

Did you know 2018 has been one of Southern Anne Arundel County’s wettest years on record? So far in 2018, Edgewater, Deale, Lothian, and other areas in the county have seen 60 inches of rain.  That means 2018 will go down in record books in the top 10 wettest years in history.  Anne Arundel County’s rainfall average is typically 42 inches.

So, what happens to your home or business when we get all this rain? You see water damage, flooded basements, sewer backups, flood damage and more.  SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/ Lothian  has been working with Anne Arundel County business and residents to help cleanup water damage for over 42 years. Throughout the years we have seen lots of water damage.  Here are a few tips to help you keep water away from your structure:

Safety First.  Make sure it is safe for you to enter the wet area. Be sure to check for electrical hazards.  Only do activates that are safe to perform.

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/ Lothian  is your emergency contact when you need water damage restoration. We answer the phone ready to help 24 hours a day/7 days a week.

House Overcome With Mold

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Severe Mold Case

After a long hospital stay, an elderly home owner returned to his home to find it filled with mold.  Unfortunately, there was a water leak in the basement that sat for approximately 2 months.  SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian was called to remove the water and mold.

When our SERVPRO of Edgewater / Deale-Churchton / Lothian team first arrived to assess the flooded basement, we provided water removal.  However, removing the water was just the first step.  There entire basement and main level of the house was covered with surface mold. There was mold on the furniture, walls, and ceilings.

In order for the mold remediation to be effective, our team removed all porous materials, including drywall, carpet, flooring, insulation and more.  The first floor contents, including the kitchen cabinets and wall studs, will be treated as well. This process includes pretreating the contents with a hepa vacuum which removes 99.97% of all particulates including mold, sewage, and soot.  Next, the contents are disinfected with an anti-microbial, and then, treated again with the hepa vacuum.

To insure that mold spores are removed from the air, air scrubbers will run for approximately 3 days to clean any mold spores in the air.

This is a severe case of sitting water that resulted in a mold infestation.  If you ever find flood water in your basement or have water damage, it’s important to stop the flow of water and get it removed right away.

How Can I Protect My Property From Mold?

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in Home

One of the most frequently asked questions SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian hears from Anne Arundel County homeowners, landlords, and tenants is, “How can I protect my property from mold?” We’ve come up with a top 5 list of mold prevention tips.

Tip 1. Get to Know Your Weaknesses. Look around your home or office and identify areas where moisture comes in or collects. Frequently, we see moisture near/around windows.

Tip 2. Dry Wet Areas Immediately. If you see water collecting in your office or any other rooms, clean it up immediately. After a heavy rainfall, you may find some water in your basement. Dry that water up with towels and call us to make sure we get the area completely dry so mold doesn’t become a problem.

Tip 3. Direct Water Away from Your Home. There are many landscaping tricks you can install to track water away from your home. Installing something as simple as a French drain can reduce the amount of water coming near your house.

Tip 4. Prevent Mold with Proper Ventilation. It may be that your routine activities are encouraging the growth of mold in your home. Make sure an activity as simple as cooking dinner, taking a shower, or doing a load of laundry doesn't invite mold by providing proper ventilation in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and any other high-moisture areas. Vent appliances that produce moisture — clothes dryers, stoves — to the outside (not the attic). Use AC units and dehumidifiers (especially in Maryland), but make sure they don’t produce moisture themselves by checking them periodically and cleaning them as directed by the manufacturer.

Tip 5. Clean or Repair Roof Gutters. A mold problem might be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking because of full or damaged gutters. Have your roof gutters cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Repair them as necessary and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.

Does Your Insurance Cover You in the Event of a Fire?

10/27/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Damage

Hopefully, you’ve never been through a home or office fire in Edgewater, Maryland. However, as part of being prepared for the unexpected, it’s important to make sure your insurance (home or renters), can protect your family and business in care of a fire.

You probably know someone who has been through a home fire.  They are eager to share lessons learned the hard way. One of those lessons is that insurance can help protect your family financially if a fire should affect your home.

Here are a few ways renter’s insurance can help protect you from fire damage:

1. Protect personal property. Your landlord’s insurance will cover the building and items that belong to the landlord, but your items are not included in that coverage. As a renter, you need a policy to provide replacement value of personal property lost from fire damage.
2. Prevent financial destruction from liability. Most renter’s insurance policies include protection in case you accidentally start the fire. Of course, this doesn’t cover intentional or criminal conduct.
3. Provide money for accommodations. Make sure your policy includes this coverage, which provides for hotel fees or the expense of relocation. A loss of use can help pay for you to live somewhere else if your current space becomes uninhabitable from a disaster, like fire.

Renters insurance is affordable, costing around $30 per month. It provides coverage of your belongings no matter where they are damaged or stolen, and it covers a variety of different types of disasters. Be sure to remember that flood damage still requires separate coverage, but fire and other disasters, such as wind, lightning, theft and vandalism, are usually covered. Coverage may have some limits, so consider getting a rider for special items that may be very valuable. It’s up to the landlord to have adequate coverage for the building and any furnishings that are included. Fire restoration can encompass many different types of damage including water, smoke and soot. A good restoration company will be able to handle all types of damage, working with you to minimize loss and clean your belongings when it is possible to do so.

Fire Prevention Week (October 7 – October 13, 2018)

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian often receives calls to help when a fire occurs in Anne Arundel County Maryland. So, we thought we should take the time to talk about Fire Prevention Week. The purpose of Fire Prevention Week is to bring awareness to the risk of death in case of a fire and provide educational resources to people of all ages, races and socioeconomic status in order to keep everyone safe. This year’s campaign, “Look. Listen. Learn. Be aware. Fire can happen anywhere,” works to educate people about three basic but essential steps to take to reduce the likelihood of having a fire––and how to escape safely in the event of one:

• LOOK for places fire could start. Take a good look around your home. Identify potential fire hazards and take care of them.
• LISTEN for the sound of the smoke alarm. You could only have minutes to escape safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Go to your outside meeting place, which should be a safe distance from the home and where everyone should go to meet up.
• LEARN two ways out of every room and make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily and are free of clutter.

We hope your home and/or business never suffers from a fire, but if you do, we are here to help. Contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian at (410) 867-3590.

Pasadena Home Fire

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

Pasadena Home Fire

On August 18, 2018, a homeowner in a Pasadena neighborhood contacted SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian about a house fire. The source of was caused by a grease fire that started in the kitchen.

The homeowner mistakenly attempted to extinguish the fire with water rather than with a kitchen rated fire extinguisher or baking soda. Once the fire department saved the day, further clean-up was required because the product and water used to put the fire out.  The home was severely damaged and required boarding up the door and windows. 

Our SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian team immediately began working on both the fire and water damage. Itemizing each affected item or structural damage, we removed all unsalvageable items from the property and the items that could be salvaged were packed and moved to our warehouse in Arnold. 

Our crew at the warehouse has been working on cleaning the items that were salvaged utilizing ultrasonic machine cleaning methods. Using both wet and dry-cleaning techniques to clean contents, upholstery and furniture, we have been able to restore most materials to their preloss condition. 

Storm Preparedness Important County Numbers

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

Important County Numbers

In the event of a storm, it’s important for our community to know how to get help they need. Anne Arundel County has many resources available and our citizens. We encourage you to sign up for the CodeRED systems and print this list of Important Numbers you should have in the event of a storm.

Did you know that Anne Arundel County and the City of Annapolis utilize and emergency notification system called CodeRED? The CodeRED system contacts citizens and businesses quickly in the event of an emergency.  To sign up for CodeRED, visit: www.aacounty.org/OEM or call (410) 222-0600.

As SERVPRO Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian  takes the month of September to engage with National Preparedness Month, we feel it’s important to provide our customers with important phone numbers they can use.

How Prepared are you for Hurricane Florence?

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Florence

How Prepared are you for Hurricane Florence?

As a business owner, insurer or property manager, you are a leader in your community and have the opportunity to set an example for your employees, customers and community to follow. Although, Maryland is not in the direct path of Hurricane Florence, many businesses will feel the effects from this storm via heavy rain, storm surge, and high winds.

As a business, you want to ensure you have a plan to help you:

• Stay in business
• Encourage employees to become ready
• Protect your investment

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can serve your business by creating an Emergency READY Profile (ERP). The ERP will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. This is a no-cost assessment.
Contact us today to establish your ERP.

Commercial Response Time

8/29/2018 (Permalink)

Water in hotel

When water is spilling in your building, it’s an emergency. It doesn’t matter if it’s 2:00 in the morning or 2:00 in the afternoon. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian prides itself on a rapid response time.

Recently, we received a call from a hotel in Annapolis at 2:30 am and we were onsite cleaning up the water within 1 hour. The hotel had water leaking from a shower pipe that ruptured on the 4^th floor of their facility. Unfortunately, water flowed through 3 levels and effected 11 hotel rooms. Thankfully, the on-site staff were able to stop the flow of water, and SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian was able to swiftly attack the cleanup.

The client was so happy he gave us the following review:

SERVPRO  was very quick and efficient when we had a major leak at our property. Their response time, to our property which was many miles away was within 1.5 hours (at 2:30am we called them). Their team and supervisors were quick to assess and start the clean-up processes so that no major damage occurred and they had the best attitude and hustle to get the job recovered from the flooding water leak. My hat is off to Trish Turner and her team for being OUTSTANDING in every aspect of cleaning, recovery and communication! Thanks and you all are 5 Stars.

We appreciate the kind review the client left online and we pride ourselves on being available 24-7 to help in any disaster.

Are you Prepared for a Flash Flood?

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

Flash Flood Annapolis

While Summer is an exciting time of year, Summer storms can create flood conditions faster than you may realize. Knowing the difference between a flood warning and flood watch is important. A Flash Flood Watch means there is possible flooding in Anne Arundel County. A Flash Flood Warning means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in the county.

Preparing Your Family for a Flood

Your family will be better prepared to withstand a flood if you have the following items available, packed and ready to go in case you need to evacuate your home.

3 day supply of water, 1 gallon per person per day  3 day supply of non-perishable food items  Flashlights, extra batteries and multi-purpose tools  A first aid kit and a extra medications “ Sanitation and person hygiene items Extra pet supplies, food, ID and vet records. Extra clothing, blankets, sturdy shoes and rain gear Sunscreen and bug repellent - Emergency contact information and copies of important person documents. A camera to take photos of flood damage. Extra charges for electronic devices.

Annapolis Red Cross Emergency Number - (410) 952-8940

Baltimore Gas and Electric – 1-800-685-0123

SERVPRO Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian – (410) 867-3590

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration: What to do after a Flood or Water Damage

Floods and water damage often occur with little warning and can be devastating to homes, business and entire communities. Taking immediate action after a disaster is vital. Communicating with your insurance company and calling upon the emergency response restoration experts at SERVPRO Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian will help you move forward faster. Taking pictures, collecting items, extracting water and starting the dry-out process can be helpful, but safety must come first. If your home or business is not sturdy, do not go in. Leave that to us!

What to Do After a Flood or Water Damage

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT to Do After a Flood or Water Damage

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging. 

Does Your Home or Business Have a Mold Problem?

8/15/2018 (Permalink)

Is this mold or mildew?

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors, in Maryland. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent to minimize the chances of mold growth.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-867-3590

Water and Sewage Damage

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

Basement water damage

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is committed to educating our customers. As soon as you realize there is a water issue in your home or business, you need to call us for help and here’s why. There are different types of water and sewage damage and the sooner you fix the problem the better.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Sewage cleanup must not be taken lightly. Serious long term health issues to adults, children and even pets may occur due to bacteria, viruses and even parasites. Don't delay. Take immediate action. Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian today at (410) 867-3590

Commercial Fire Safety

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profile

Commercial fire is one of the common issues during the summer months. Smoke alarms are a key part of a commercial as well as a well-rehearsed fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly. Here are a few fire safety tips you can implement in your building.

SAFETY TIPS

• Install smoke alarms in every room. They should also be outside each area and on every level of the building. Install alarms in the basement.
• Large commercial property may need extra smoke alarms in large, open rooms.
• It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds, they all sound.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Current alarms on the market employ different types of technology including multi-sensing, which could include smoke and carbon monoxide combined.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
• A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall.
• People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian provides a free Emergency Ready Profile, which includes a telephone application. This powerful resource is available to property managers, building owners, and company safety representatives.

5 Tips on Preventing Storm Damage

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

5 Tips on Preventing Storm Damage

Summer thunderstorms can wreak havoc on Maryland.  Almost every other day we hear about how weather is affecting people around the country. The good news is you can prepare for severe weather and help prevent storm damage.

Here are some quick tips from SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian.

• Remove dead branches from trees and remove dead trees. Dead trees and tree branches can fall on cars, damage your roof, or cause major destruction. Be sure to remove all dead wood.

• Dirty or cluttered gutters are a common cause of drainage problem. However, make sure you fix drainage problems with patios and landscaping too. Do you see any puddles in your yard? This can be a sign of drainage problems. To avoid water damage, get those drainage problems addressed before a storm.

• When was the last time you had your roof inspected? Ideally, your roof should be inspected and maintained on a yearly basis.

• Sump Pump. Ensure you have a sump pump battery backup in place. These batteries can save you from having a real mess on your hands. A batterybackup system is needed most often when heavy rains have resulted in a power outage, or the primary sump pump is overwhelmed by heavy water volumes during a rain event. 

• Shut Off. Know where your shut off valves are for your utilities. If you have a flood, for your safety, it is important to know where the shut off valves are locating both inside/outside your home.

If you have concerns with a commercial property having an emergency plan, please let us know. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can develop an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your building and provide your facilities staff with a telephone application that will keep them prepared for severe weather. Call us for more information (410) 867-3590.

Women in Restoration

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

Diane with her award!

The Recognizing Women in Restoration was launched in 2016, and celebrates its third year in 2018. This year, more than 40 women were nominated for the award by fellow industry peers and colleagues. Each boasts at least a decade of experience in the industry, which is the only requirement to be considered for the award – position with a restoration company, title, etc. do not matter. Entries are accepted each year starting in early February, through March. Four industry judges, including myself, carefully read and judge each nomination on six criteria:

• Thoroughness of the entry
• Supporting documentation
• Journey/experience in the industry
• Job growth and future reach
• Worthiness of recognition
• Industry awards and certifications

This year’s award will be presented on Friday, June 22 at the Violand Executive Summit in Canton, Ohio. All ladies involved in this year’s campaign are invited to attend the Summit itself, as well as a very special half-day Women in Leadership event leading into the Summit on Wednesday, June 20, facilitated by R&R Editor-in-Chief, Michelle Blevins.

First Runner-Up

Diane Whittles

Diane Whittles

Owner  |  SERVPRO of Annapolis  |  Annapolis, MD

Diane’s journey in the restoration industry began in 1986 when, as she puts it, she “married into it.” For many years, she acted as bookkeeper and helped her husband with administrative tasks. This allowed her to follow the calling on her life in those years - to be very present in raising their three children, until the unexpected happened several years ago, and her calling shifted.

“When my husband passed away from cancer a few years ago, I had some choices to make,” Diane explained.  “While some colleagues may have been surprised that I decided to maintain and operate the business, they soon realized I intended to grow the business as well.  My daughter, her husband and my son pitched in to help me and I am pleased to say that I have not looked back. I took the basic knowledge I had and built on that by getting all the training I could find.”

As a strong and fruitful leader, Diana has carefully surrounded herself with a very strong team of managers who have years of experience in their fields. She calls them one of the keys to her success.

Here is her advice to fellow ladies in restoration:

“Learn what you can about the industry, watch for new trends in restoration.  Invest in equipment, infrastructure and education. Most importantly, empower your employees and support your community.”

Click here to read the full article.

Toilet Tank Water Damage

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Ceiling Damage

During the recent rain storms, SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park was inundated with requests for help. However, even though most calls were about storm damage, some were routine water issues.  One such call came from Severna Park.

When this commercial building owner called us to attend to his three-story office building that was flooded, we discovered the loss occurred from a broken toilet tank on the third level.  The water ran all weekend long and the by the time Monday morning rolled around, all three levels were affected.  Most of the carpet was ruined, drywall was wet, and even the ceilings suffered from water damage. Nothing SERVPRO hasn’t seen before and within hours, 50 air movers and a 1200 CFM desiccant dehumidifier were installed, working off 55 KW generator to quickly dry the structure with as much minimum damage as possible.  Upon removing the carpet, we discovered asbestos tiles which no one wanted to disturb.  Being able to dry the structure so quickly and efficiently saved a lot of time and money for both the property owner AND the insurance company.  SERVPRO turned the building back over to the owner in under 96 hours!

May 2018 Record Breaking Rainfall in Anne Arundel County Maryland

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Rain in Annapolis

Wow! Have we seen rain or what?! During the first 3 weeks of May, Anne Arundel County, Maryland has seen record-breaking rainfall.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton and Lothian was inundated with requests to assist with flooded basements, leaks in roofs from fallen trees and more. Our crews worked around the clock and provided outstanding service to residents and business owners in Anne Arundel County.

When you suffer a water emergency, we will do our best to get to you as soon as possible. However, there are a few things you can do to make sure you are safe and to prevent additional damage. Here’s a list of questions you can ask:

• Is it safe for you to stay in your house?
• Are there any electrical risks? Is the water near an outlet?
• Is it possible someone can fall in the water?
• Can you move materials to dry areas?

Safety is our top priority. Always make sure you and your home are safe first. Wet items can be dried or replaced.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton and Lothian is strategically located to provide rapid response to water emergencies. We are water removal and cleanup specialists and are ready to service your home when flooding or water leaks cause water damage. We quickly dry your property using state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right.

If you have concerns with water damage, call us (410) 867-3590.

Mulch Fires in Harwood

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Decorative mulch is an unsuspecting place where fires can start.

There was a day or two of sunny weather in Galesville last week.  Many homeowners took to cleaning up their yards and front porches.  Cleaning up the flower beds was a big part of the yard cleanup at our house and that meant lots of mulch. 

What many people do not know is that mulch is a combustible material and can easily be ignited. Hundreds of fires start this way each year according to Fire Engineering.  Large mulch piles have been known to build up enough heat from internal decomposition and start a fire. Keeping mulch moist and raked is an effective way to prevent this from happening.

It is also important that cigarettes and matches are properly extinguished to avoid igniting mulch.

Fire cleanup is no easy task, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian are your fire restoration professionals.

Who you going to call?

4/13/2018 (Permalink)

Not everyone is open 24/7365 like SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton-Lothian.

Who are you going to call if the power goes out?

The Power Company

Who are you going to call if your internet goes down?

The telephone Company

Who are you going to call if there is a fire?

911

These are all obvious answers to serious questions.

 Do you know who you would call if your business had a commercial water damage?

Do you know who you would call if your business had a commercial fire damage?

Do you know who you would call if your business had commercial mold damage?

Do you know who you would call if your business had a commercial bio hazard issue?

SERVPRO of Edgewater/ Deale-Churchton/Lothian at 410-867-3590 is available 24/7/365 to take care of your business.

Moldy Coffee in Davidsonville?

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

Nothing but Anchors a weigh in this coffee. Mold clean up should be left to the professionals.

Have you ever seen mold on your bread, cheese or fruit?  What about your coffee? 

I have never seen mold on my coffee, but there are some articles out there where they speak about mycotoxins (metabolites produced by mold) that can be found in coffee.   There are studies that say many coffee beans are affected and we are all consuming them on a regular basis, other studies rebut that the quantities are so low and within regulation standards. 

One thing I am sure we can all agree on is that if you SEE mold on your bread, cheese or fruit, DO NOT EAT IT.  The second thing we can agree on is that if you SEE or SUSPECT Mold in your home or office calling SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian for remediation is wise!

More Flu coming to Edgewater?

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help keep the flu away with deep cleaning services.

Did you hear that the CDC is warning of second flu outbreak?

During the week ending March 17^th labs were reporting a high rate of B-strain viruses.  The previous strains of the flu were predominantly A strain, so people can still get sick with this different strain. CDC is warning people to remain vigilant and seek treatment if they suspect infection.

Businesses in Edgewater can help stop the spread of flu and other infectious diseases by getting DEEP CLEAN. Daily cleaning routines are a good start, but to sanitize and restore properties to clean safe environments will give customers peace of mind.

Residents of Deale, Churchton and Lothian are concerned about staying healthy and thinking about all the places that germs might be lurking.  Where do you go on a daily basis? The grocery store, work, restaurants, the gym, movie theater, schools or the mall might be a part of your travels.  These busy populated places can be breading grounds for infectious diseases.  Make your business a place people do not hesitate to go, by calling SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian for a deep clean/sanitizing estimate.  Our services can get to that deeper level than surface clean.

March can bring MOLD to your Edgewater Home

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

Kitchen sinks can leak and lead to mold on the covered portions of cabinets and flooring.

Our region is surrounded by beautiful waterways that sometimes creep into our homes or businesses.  These types of water damages (if not dried correctly) and completely can leave moisture behind, allowing mold to grow.  Whether it is water from a sprinkler, refrigerator, sump pump or the local river it is imperative to have it cleaned and dried by professionals. Our qualifications and our equipment can test moisture levels, and confirm dryness which is the key to preventing mold.

Should you find yourself suspecting you have mold because you see it or “smell” it, take caution. Breathing in mold spores may cause irritation.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans
• Contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian at 410.867-3590

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth
• Don’t assume area is dry without having tested by a professional

This time of year rain (or snow) can leave residual moisture which is breading ground for mold.  Keep vigilant to prevent major mold growth.

February Temperatures Still Freezing

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

FEMA is a great resource for Edgewater and Lothian residents.

When the outside temperatures are still lingering at and below freezing in the Edgewater area, heat is on most people’s minds. Having your heating units serviced at the beginning of each winter season is a good way to get ahead of any issues.  This does not guarantee that you will not have any heating issues but if you do, make sure to follow these tips to prevent fires.

• Never use an oven or stove top to heat your home
• Always use a metal or heat tempered glass screen when using a fireplace
• All heater should have 3 feet on each side

Our IICRC certified technicians are available now to help with frozen pipes, water or fire damage at 410.867.3590.

Runway to Success

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

Heading to Orlando this summer, thanks to Southwest.

Building a business in Annapolis has been a terrific opportunity for our owners.  It has been over 40 years and there are still new opportunities that become available to help small companies like ours.  We found out today that we have been awarded a round trip ticket to attend a conference this summer.  Anne Arundel County Economic Development Corporation and Southwest Airlines teamed up to host Runway to Success for local businesses. 

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian submitted an application in 2017 in the hopes of funding the travel for a conference that will enhance our team’s knowledge of trends in the water damage, fire restoration and mold remediation arenas.  

You can see what other local companies were awarded tickets from Southwest here.

We will be sure to share everything we learn with you and our crews this summer. 

Our IICRC certified techs are available now to help with frozen pipes, water or fire damage at 410.647.8181.

Nobody in Lothian Likes a Cold Shower

12/28/2017 (Permalink)

The white covering is the BLANKET that helps insulate your water heater.

Waking up and taking a warm shower in the winter is what makes getting out of bed bearable, until, the water is COLD! The frigid temperatures of winter can cause some issues inside the home and for your water heater.  Many water heaters are in basements that can be drafty and poorly insulted.  Your pipes that run all the way to your shower are probably exposed.  With a few inexpensive tips, you can be back bathing in hot water!

1. Wrap foam pipe insulation around the pipes that lead from the water heater to your bathrooms
2. Insulate the water heater with a specialty water heater blanket
3. Have a professional check your heating element, pilot light and the thermostat on the heater

We are Fire and Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO OF Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian specializes in fire and water damage restoration. Our technicians have extensive training and equipment to get you back to pre-fire condition. Our technicians are experts in fire & smoke restoration, odor identification and removal, upholstery & fabric cleaning, and water damage restoration.

SERVPRO OF Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Offers:

• Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
• Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
• Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
• Cleaning and Repair
• Restoration

Call us today at 410-867-3590
“Like it never even happened.”

Roadside bottles in Deale

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Bottles around Hardwood will take over 400 years to naturally disintegrate.

Have you seen those clear sparkly things on the side of Route 2? One more than one occasion we have passed piles of plastic bottles scattered down the sides of the roads.   Statistics show globally we buy a million plastic bottle per minute. Now that we know we are the cause of all these bottles, what can we do to help eliminate them?

Our family recently purchased a bottle less water cooler similar to those at bottleless.com.  We had been using the 5 gallon jugs but felt bad even about that.  So now we are bottle less and we use refillable water bottles or glasses, which makes us feel like we are doing our part.  Some people are concerned about having a water line in another part of the house, which could leak and cause water damage to the kitchen or the basement below. 

Using a professional plumber to help us install the water line and verify all the connections were sealed, we felt very comfortable that we are doing the best thing for the environment.  Checking lines when you change the filter to make sure you spot any small leaks ahead of time., is a best practice.

If you find yourself with any type of water damage or in need of water restoration services, call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian 410-867-3590 anytime.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles all around Edgewater

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Train schedules could be impacted by stormy weather in parts of the county this holiday season.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles are out in full force the last few weeks of the year. Getting people to shops, parties and family destinations.  The streets of Edgewater are bustling with friends from near and far and those finishing their holiday to do list.  It looks like the area is in good shape until possibly Christmas Day when the region could get a rain or snow storm. 

If you are expecting to travel by plane, train or automobile it is good practice to check the weather before you leave so you can be prepared for any hazards the weather may bring.  AAA says more people will be hitting the road in personal vehicles this season.  We suggest packing extra blankets, water bottles, a small shovel and cat litter which can all come in helpful if there is snow in the area that effects travel.

We wish everyone a Happy Holidays and Safe New Years as you travel near and far!

Overloaded outlets can spark electrical fires

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Festive yards in Galesville and West River need to take precautions to avoid electrical fires.

Frosty, Olaf, a reindeer, Santa, The Polar Express are all on the same front lawn in Mayo.  Lite up and blowing in the wind.  Driving by it looks wonderful and brings smiles to everyone’s face, but can that be dangerous?  All those cords plugged in to the same house is reason to pause.

All the lights and decorations are joyous only if they are installed safely.

The top there safety tips to follow when using lights outside are:

1. Purchase certified and lab tested cords
2. Make sure they are rated for outdoor use
3. Do not use multiple plug outlets chained together

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) has other great safety tips that will help limit your holiday fire risk.  SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian will have crews working throughout the holiday if you find yourself in need of smoke, soot or fire damage repair.

Icicles are pretty but can mean water damage to Shady Side Homes

12/11/2017 (Permalink)

Beautiful roof line of icicles can be a sign of underlying water in your Deale's attic. Be sure to check attic space for wet spots.

Icicles look so pretty!!Shady Side and Deale residents should be weary of those pretty winter creations.  They can be a sign that your roof has an ice dam.  Ice Dams occur when a snow-covered roof has some melting that seeps under the snow drift and then refreezes at the edge of the roof line.  Once frozen any further water that is melting has nowhere to go other than under shingles or into holes in a roof line.

If you see icicles on the roof line you should check your attic for any possible wet spots which would indicate a problem. Catching these early is key to avoiding a larger water damage in your Deale or Shady Side home. 

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has a team of technicians that can assist should your water damage become more than you can handle.

Don't let your Edgewater Christmas Tree Dry out

12/4/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage from a dry tree can be serious in Edgewater homes.

For many folks in Deale, Churchton or Lothian last weekend included putting up the Christmas Tree.  This is a festive time of year, but also a time to remember some safety tips.

At SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian we rely on the National Fire Protection Association for key fire safety tips. They recommend the following:

1. Keep tree at least 3 feet from a heat source
2. Be sure to add water to tree daily
3. Make sure lights are not broken or have frayed cords
4. Turn off holiday lights before bed or when leaving the home

Most importantly is to get rid of the Christmas tree once it is dried out.  Removing the dead tree from the home and garage is the best prevention for accidental holiday fires.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian will be available all holiday season to assist with any smoke, fire or water damage needs.  Call 410-867-3590 anytime!

Old vs. New Homes and Mold in Shady Side

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

Preservation is important to our team.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian recently worked with the City of Annapolis and its KEEPING HISTORY ABOVE WATER conference in October and continues to support the City of Annapolis and its Weather It Together initiative.

Part of SERVPRO’s involvement with Weather It Together (and I urge you to visit their website) is because, of course, we love the history and community that is Anne Arundel County but mostly, as a SERVPRO owner, I am keenly aware of preservation and restoration.  After all, our motto is, “Like it never even happened.” ... not tear it down and start over. 

 As we got more involved in the conference, my staff and I learned a few things.  My team researched building materials and recreated structural samples spanning from pre-Civil war to the present day and how they have changed.  A question presented itself.   Why, for example, is mold so much more of a problem now with assumingly better modern-day materials?

In the 1920’s, indoor plumbing was introduced (great source of moisture).  Builders moved from plaster and lath to drywall and from solid lumber to composites.  In the 50’s, along comes air conditioning and the 60’s brought us updated HVAC systems.  Buildings became more comfortable and energy consumption increased and we end up with an energy crisis in the 70’s!  Energy efficiency became a priority and building design changed to reduce energy consumption.  Construction became “tighter” reducing heat flow and air movement and more importantly, reducing drying potential of a commercial building or home.  In the early 80’s, energy efficient structures were being built in quantity and by the late 80’s, health complaints start being connected to tight buildings and interest in mold problems began to grow.

So, for those of you who love vintage and historical properties, commercial or residential, you will be happy to know that older structures typically dry out better with less demolition than modern structures.

Calling SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian when your commercial or residential structure needs attention is your best bet!

Where does mold come from?

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Mold looks pretty under a microscope, but not in your Deale home.

Molds or fungi are microscopic organisms that can be found just about anywhere and anyone can be exposed to mold almost daily.  Molds are usually not a problem indoors UNLESS mold spores land on damp or wet surfaces and begin to grow.  Elevated moisture/humidity levels create a flourishing breeding ground for molds to produce the allergens and irritants that can make a person sick.  As long as moisture is not present, mold cannot grow.  You must discover the reason for elevated moisture levels (leaking pipe, hot water heater, toilet, etc.).  When water leaks indoors – respond quickly!  If you can dry the affected area within 24-48 hours, in most cases mold will not grow.

If you “SMELL” mold, remember that the mold may be hidden atop ceiling tiles, or by wallpaper or paneling or inside ductwork.  Use caution if you are investigating the “Smell/Odor” yourself as the simple act of pulling away wallpaper can release spores and NEVER turn a fan on to hasten drying as it will most likely blow those pesky spores around, causing more damage.

The area SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian services is surrounded by water!  We’ve remediated hundreds if not thousands of mold projects over our 40 plus years.  Most property managers or homeowners call us frantically when they believe they may have a mold problem but it is not alarming to us as we are educated and trained.  A mold situation is fixable if properly remediated. 

Freezing Temperatures Getting Ready to hit Anne Arundel County

11/9/2017 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes can cause major water damage. We are here to help 24/7/365.

The weatherman is telling us that freeze warnings are going into effect as of tomorrow.  The next week or so is going to be colder than average for November in Maryland. Are you and your home ready? 

If you have not checked your heating units, gotten out your gloves and scarves now is a good time to do that.  One thing many people do not think of when doing winter preparations is freezing pipes. Pipes that are exposed to the cold on the exterior of your home, near your pool or garage and interior pipes with little insulation are all at risk.

Draining outdoor water lines, insulating attic and crawl space pipes and keeping indoor temperatures to above 55 degrees, even if no one is home, are simple steps to help prevent frozen pipes.  The American Red Cross has a full guide to winter preparations for your pipes.

Should you get caught with a burst pipe and have water running everywhere, you need to call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian to mitigate the water quickly. Our professionals are available 24/7/365 even holidays.

Just woke up and there is water everywhere, Now What?

11/9/2017 (Permalink)

Shut off the water source and then call SERVPRO!

First thing is to find the source of the water and stop the flow if possible.  If you need to, turn off the water shut off for the whole house. Usually located in the basement. 

Now take a deep breath and make sure any electrical or trip hazards are addressed.  You can now call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian who will arrive and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Our content cleaning division is capable of sanitizing items, drying documents and photos, and electronic cleanup.  We understand that your personal belongings are an important part of any restoration job. The entire team will be with you from beginning to end when you suffer an unexpected water loss.

Have A Water Damage Emergency? 
Call 410-867-3590

Cooking Fires are the #1 Cause of Home Fires

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Harwood, Galesville and Deale crews are available 24/7/365.

The holiday season is upon us and that means an increase in kitchen fires.  Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve.  Leaving items unattended, or forgetting items in the oven are the top causes of these incidents.

Top Safety Tips Include:

• Stay in kitchen when cooking on stovetop
• Set timer on phone and kitchen to alert before completion
• Keep kitchen towels and oven mitts away from fire source
• Never leave lit candles unattended

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian wants you to have a happy and healthy holiday.  Our neighbor’s safety is important to us.  If you find yourself or a friend in need of fire or water remediation we are available 24/7/365 to assist.  Call 410.867.3590 anytime.

Gobble Gobble!

Fast, Professional Restoration for Storm Damage to your Edgewater Home

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

We can restore your home and contents, "Like it never even happened."

Rain, Snow and Wind are a bad combination for Maryland residents.  Winter Storm season is approaching our area and the predictions are for more precipitation than last year.  Temperatures are expected to be lower than normal which can lead to frozen and busted pipes.  All these predictions mean is that it is time to get prepared! 

Shovels, Generators, Clean Gutters, Roof Patches and saving SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian's number (410.867-3590) to your cell are the most important steps. It is unrealistic to think storm damage cannot affect you. If it does you need to act fast for a better chance of restoring your home and possessions. Our IICRC-Certified technicians come equipped to extract water and assess the damage to the structure.  We understand that getting your home dry and your belongings restored is your number one priority. We are here to help!

Hiring a Professional for Mold Remediation is Essential

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

We can help with commercial and residential mold in South County.

Once you suspect you have mold you should call the SERVPRO professionals who have a proven process when dealing with mold infestation. Containment is the first step to prevent mold spores from cross contamination into other areas of the home. Air ducts need to be sealed as well since they are pathways to other rooms.  Once sealed off our crews remove all active mold by cleaning the surfaces and using HEPA vacuums to extract the spores.  Industrial sir scrubbers are used to cleanse the air.

Maintaining a low humidity and dry environment is the key to keeping mold growth from forming.  We can show you how to do this using dehumidifiers and air movers.

Our commitment to returning you to a clean and safe home is what drives each step of the process.  If you have any questions about our process or suspect you have mold, call 410.867.3590 today. 

Paper, Paper Everywhere

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Document Restoration is possible when you call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian.

How much paper do you think your office uses in a day?

In a month?

In a year? 

Many businesses have made efforts to go “paperless” but paper is still a large part of many commercial businesses.  Law firms, education institutes, accountants, and medical offices all have important documents that, if lost, would devastate the business. 

Did you know there is a way to restore those documents if damaged?

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has the capability to restore important documents using different restorative drying processes. In many water damages there is bacteria introduced to the environment. The latest vacuum freeze-drying method, as well as gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing allow us to preserve and sanitize the documents most important to you. The technology we use is the only method approved by the National Archives and Records Administration and General Services Administration. For your home or office document needs call 410.867.3590.

Fire Prevention Week

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Safety Planning can save lives.

National Fire Protection Association has offered these tips during Fire Prevention Week, October 8-14,2017. Fire moves very fast, estimates say you have less than 2 minutes to get out safely.

1. Draw a map of your home including all windows and doors
2. Find two ways out of every room
3. Clear path from all windows and doors
4. Choose an outdoor meeting place away from the structure & Call 911
5. Test your smoke alarm
6. Practice your drill with the whole family
7. Fine tune the plan based on the practice run

Remember that people cannot be replaced, nothing is as important as getting out safely. Once you can safely return to the home you can then think about calling for assistance with smoke, fire or water damage. The sooner you have SERVPRO professionals on site, the sooner they can begin the restoration process.

Who cleans those cushions?

10/10/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO cleans those cushions!

Do you ever think about what you are sitting on? In the hotel lobby, on the bus, in a conference room, or auditorium where hundreds of people have been before you.  You do not need to be a germaphobe to know that all those people have left behind something,and germs can cause health effects.

As individuals, we can wash our hands or use sanitizer to combat these leave behinds.  As commercial businesses, you too can do something to keep your property clean, Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian for a cleaning estimate. We have been cleaning commercial upholstery, carpets and train cushions for years to minimize visual dirt as well as those pesky germs.  These cleanings are a value add to your guests and enhance the longevity of your property.  For a free estimate call 410.647.8181 now.

What will your sign say?

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let a disaster close your doors.

Almost forty percent of business do not reopen after a disaster per FEMA. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place.   By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage affect your business.

Would staff know where to direct first responders?

Do your employees know your chain of command?

Do your managers know where water shut off valves are?

Thankfully, SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can help with getting your plan underway.  Not only do we offer a FREE customized Emergency Ready Profile, we have Pre-Disaster Agreements that set us up to be on call for your fire, water, and mold damages.   

Creating a plan now is what will make the difference in what your sign will say. Call 410.647.8181 to schedule your FREE planning appointment.

Diane Whittles helps keep businesses afloat

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

Keeping businesses, historical properties and residences open is a big priority for Diane.

Whether it's a coastal storm, tidal flooding or the long-term reality of sea level rise, properties and public spaces within the flood hazard area are at risk.  Even the most conservative projections indicate that we might anticipate an increase in sea level and flood elevations of nearly 4 ft. by 2100. Annapolis and the surrounding area have many historical buildings,commercial businesses and monuments in these zones.  Area leaders are working on plans to minimize the effect on our local history. Weather It Together is the Annapolis community-based planning initiative designed to adapt communities to minimize the risks associated with flooding.

Diane Whittles, owner of SERVPRO® of Annapolis/Severna Park and SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has over 40 years of experience with flooding and the effects it can have on individuals, businesses and cities.  She has seen the devastation and financial toll that water damage can have. Making every effort to help people prepare for these situations is a key component of Diane’s messaging, she would like to help people avoid disasters.   This fell right in line with the Weather It Together initiative. Each month WIT hosts a guest speaker that shares research, experiences or strategies they have been a part of.  Ellicott City leaders, Office of Emergency Management, FEMA, DNR, Historic Preservation Council and many more have all participated and collaborated to educate our community.

The collaboration doesn’t stop locally, Keeping History Above Water will be hosting its second annual conference in Annapolis, October 29-31 to share best practices, promote dialogue and engage new audiences.  Session speakers will include Dr. David Guggenheim, President, Ocean Doctor Inc., James B, Balocki, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Installations and Facilities), and Annapolis’s very own, Lisa Craig, Chief of Historic Preservation. Mrs. Whittles choose to be a sponsor of the conference to help spread awareness of flooding issues and be a resource for those who are effected by flooding and water damage.  SERVPRO has been a unique added value to WIT and the KHAW group. Their experience in post disaster assistance has helped people understand the long-term effects from flooding and the cost to recover. In partnership with KHAW and WIT Diane and her team are continuing to serve the community in which they hold so dear.

Edgewater Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/29/2017 (Permalink)

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

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

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

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

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

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?

Call Us Today –  410-647-8181

Help for Sandwich Generation right here in Edgewater

8/10/2017 (Permalink)

Boxes can get wet and grow mold. Let SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian take care of that for you.

Sandwich generation is the term for people who are raising their own kids and caring for their aging parents. 47% of those ages 40-50 fall into this category.  Caregivers are dealing with health issues, financial issues and many times a second home to take care of if the parent is aging in place.  

Many aging parents are not able to maintain the home and can end up with mold, water damage or hoarding. These are all additional stressors for caregivers.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can help take some stress away for the sandwich generation.  Our team is trained to mitigate water damages, mold and the bio-hazards that can be associated with hoarding.  Not all hoarding looks like what you see on the TV show "Hoarders". Basements, attics or spare rooms can become overrun with boxes and with any bit of moisture, fungi, mold and other bacteria can begin to grow. Our franchise is ARBA certified and will use proper protective gear to assess the situation, decontaminate and restore the property so it is safe for you and your family member.

If you are stuck in the middle and need help call 410.647.8181.

Revised Tropical Storm and Hurricane Forecast will effect Anne Arundel County

8/10/2017 (Permalink)

Shady Side, is your disaster kit ready?

Forecasters have recently increased their forecast of named storms and major hurricanes. Predictions from May of 2017 were much lower, but due to current conditions in the Atlantic we are in for an “extremely active season”.  What does that mean for residents of Arnold, Severna Park and Annapolis?

Peak season is Mid-August through late October.  Preparation starts NOW! 

1. Download a weather or local emergency operations app that will send alerts to your cell phone when there are weather alerts for your location.
2. Pack a Disaster Kit -details here.
3. Know your plan for the family if you need to evacuate, power goes out or what to do if your home is effected by storm damage
4. Prepare your home
   1. Tree limbs cut back
   2. Secure loose rain gutters, clean debris and leaves from them
   3. Purchase, check and gas up generator
5. Add SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian to your cell phone 410.647.8181

Once a weather alert is issued make sure to stay tuned to radio for local announcements for updates and instructions.  Safety is the most important thing during storm cleanup.  Avoid down power lines, standing water and debris fields.  Calling SERVPRO to help after a storm, and letting our trained professionals help is what we are here for.

For more information about the forecast and preparedness visit the National Hurricane Center.

For assistance with storm damage, flooding, mold or fire restoration call 410.647.8181 for the fastest response.

Waterspout spotted near Edgewater/Deale/Lothian

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

A Waterspout was visible from Edgewater last weekend.

On Saturday July 15^th, around lunchtime, witnesses say a waterspout was seen on the Chesapeake Bay moving east towards the Shore.  You can see video here. This experience caught many boaters by surprise and brought to light how quickly the weather can change while out on the water.  Waterspouts can be difficult to predict like much of the Edgewater area weather.  Here are several suggestions to follow when heading out on the water.

1. Check the National Weather Service before you leave
2. Install a weather alert app on your phone
3. Let someone know what waterway you will be on
4. Make sure flares are not expired

Once you are out on the water and encounter bad weather, you should immediately return to land. The closest land may not be your original destination but it is important to return to shore. During the trip to shore you should put on personal flotation devices as a precaution. Returning safely is the most important part of the boating trip.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is your local fire, water and mold restoration company.

Available 24/7/365 at 410.647.8181

National Night Out

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

August 1, 2017 at 6243 Shady Side Road, Shady Side, MD 20764

National Night Out is an annual community-building event created to promote relationship between neighborhoods and law enforcement.  The ability to bring police and communities together under positive circumstances is one of the greatest benefits to this event.  Local communities can register to host a NNO event that is FREE to the public.  Residents from around Edgewater, Deale, Churchton, Shady Side, Davidsonville can visit the Lula G. Scott Community Center in Shady Side on August 1, 2017 from 6-9 pm for the local NNO event. Families will enjoy free refreshments, giveaways, police demonstrations and vehicles on display.  Local business will be supporting these efforts as well.  Keep an eye out, you might spot a green car or shirts of SERVPRO of Edgewater, Deale-Churchton,Lothian! Supporting our local police and fire departments is a top priority for our company, as is supporting residents when fire, flooding or mold situations arise.

Summer Cleaning Special for Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

Cleaning Special is valid until September 1, 2017.

It is mid-July and the kids have been out of school for almost 6 weeks!  A lot of dirt can build up over that time and the good news is SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has the answer.

Our Summer Cleaning Special offers 10% OFF Carpet Steam Cleaning Service*.

Services Include:

• Vacuum
• Pre-Treatment
• Spot Treatment

*Minimum service call of $225.00 applies.  Offer Expires September 1, 2017.

The SERVPRO® carpet and upholstery cleaning service will not only get out the dirt you see, but will also remove the unwanted dust you don’t. Professionally cleaned carpet and furniture will allow you to enjoy the spirit of summer while you let us do the dirty work.

It is not too late to have the Air Ducts cleaned. All that great AC blowing through the house can also be sending dust and bacteria along with it.  The kids are home for another 7 weeks, call now to have the cleaned to improve the air quality for everyone in the home.

Summer specials are not only for your home, but also for offices, daycare, businesses, and warehouses. Let us help you get over the mid-summer hump.

Call us today to schedule a cleaning service, 410-647-8181.

Anne Arundel residents battling dampness and mold – You are not alone!

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

A small drip lead to this mold situation in a local home.

Summer humidity in our area can lead to a constant battle against dampness in your home.  As the peak of summer hits and temperatures in the high nineties and one hundreds, with humidity levels over 80% this is the time to make sure you are on top of the situation.   Failure to control the moisture in your Edgewater, Deal, Churchton or Lothian home can lead to ideal conditions for mold to grow.

 Steps to Control Moisture

1. Air Conditioning the home
2. Dehumidifiers in basements, that are particularly damp
3. Promptly fixing any leaky roofs, windows or pipes
4. Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding
5. Ventilating showers, laundry and cooking areas

If you suspect that you have mold SERVPRO of Edgewater, Deale-Churchton, Lothian is available to help remediate, you are not alone!

Call 410.647.8181 to schedule our IICRC Certified technicians.

Learn more about our Mold services HERE

Anne Arundel County Parks and Rec have much to offer Edgewater/South County Residents

7/4/2017 (Permalink)

July, starts Parks and Recreation Month. Anne Arundel County Parks and Recreation offer an array of activities for people of all ages.  Getting out and being a part of your community has benefits ranging from easing stress to increasing physical activity which can lead to health improvements.  In July you can visit Mayo Beach Park on Sundays July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30th. If music is more your speed Sweet Leda will be performing at Quite Waters Park in Annapolis on July 15^th at 6 pm.  For those looking to get active this summer The Hope, Skip and Jump 5K is on July 29^th in Annapolis.  All these events and more can be found at http://www.aacounty.org/departments/recreation-parks/.  SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian would like to also invite you to the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce July 4^th parade which is always a summer favorite. Enjoy the amazing activities in our county and do not forget to call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian for your water and fire restoration needs.

Get our READY PLAN app today!

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian residents can get help faster and easier by downloading the SERVPRO® Ready Plan app, for FREE.  This easy to use application allows you to create a SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile for your home or business.  You will take a few minutes to enter critical property details that you might need following a loss.  Easy to follow prompts will guide you through the short process.  These important details will be at your fingertips should you suffer a water damage or fire loss in the future. 
The App contains weather updates as well as steps to take during a water, fire, and mold or vandalism damage while you wait for the SERVPRO team to arrive. 

SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is happy to assist commercial property owners/managers through the Emergency Ready Profile creation.  Call us today at 410.647.8181 and ask to speak with a sales and marketing representative.

You can download the app from iTunes HERE

and for androids HERE.

SERVPRO Supports Men's Health Awareness

5/4/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Crew rocking the blue!

April is national Testicular Cancer awareness month. Our team has joined Anne Arundel County Professional Firefighters, Local 1563 who have been selling t-shirts since 2013, and raised over $26,000 for the DeCesaris Cancer Center at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis. The Geaton and JoAnn DeCesaris Cancer Institute is a comprehensive, regional leader in cancer care that includes the latest in prevention, screening, diagnosis and treatment. Many different types of cancer specialists collaborate and contribute to the care of the patients.  SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian supported the cause by wearing the blue shirts on Fridays in April. 

It is not talked about often but, testicular cancer, the leading cancer in men 15-44, can strike at any age, yet it's hardly talked about. When detected early, it has a survival rate of over 95%.  It is important to raise awareness to help save lives.  For more information check out DeCesaris Cancer Institute.

South Anne Arundel County Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

8/23/2016 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home.

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

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-867-3590

Hurricane Preparedness - Be Ready

8/17/2016 (Permalink)

With Hurricane season approaching, there are two keys to weather safety that everyone should know.  That is to PREPARE for the risks and to ACT on those preparations when alerted by emergency officials.

Before a Hurricane:

Call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian – 410-867-3590

When Storms or Floods hit Southern Anne Arundel County SERVPRO is ready!

7/26/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in the Southern Anne Arundel County area.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hits South County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deal-Churchton/Lothian – 410-867-3590

For Immediate Service in South County, MD Call SERVPRO!

7/12/2016 (Permalink)

Edgewater, Deale, Churchton, Lothian, and all South County residents, we provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Southern Anne Arundel County. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

·         24-Hour Emergency Service

·         Faster to Any-Sized Disaster

·         Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

·         A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

·         Locally Owned and Operated

·         Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 410-867-3590

Residential Services

Whether your South County home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

·         Water Damage Restoration

·         Fire Damage Restoration

·         Mold Remediation

·         Storm Damage Restoration

·         Cleaning Services

·         Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Annapolis commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services.  

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

 Call today! 410-867-3590

South County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

6/24/2016 (Permalink)

This South County home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.

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

·         A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

·         Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

·         Storm sewer backup

·         Sanitary sewer backup

·         Foundation drainage failure

·         Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

·         And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – 410-867-3590

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

·         We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week

·         We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies

·         We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About

·         Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques

·         We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

·         Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 410-864-3590

American Bio Recovery Association

6/9/2016 (Permalink)

Diane Whittles

Diane Whittles of SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park and SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has just been accepted into ABRA (American Bio Recovery Association).

This affiliation means that SERVPRO has been approved and acknowledged for it’s expertise in Bio Recovery, Crime Scene Clean-Up, Hoarding Clean-up, as well as unexpected death situations.  

Faster to your South County Water Damage Event

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Annapolis, Severna Park, and Arnold.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 410-867-3590

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

·         Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.

·         Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.

·         Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.

·         Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

·         Drywall begins to swell and break down.

·         Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.

·         Furniture begins to swell and crack.

·         Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.

·         A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

·         Mold and mildew may grow and spread.

·         Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.

·         Metal begins to rust and corrode.

·         Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.

·         Paint begins to blister.

·         Wood flooring swells and warps.

·         Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

·         Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.

·         Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About Us

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

Restoring Your South County Commercial Property after a Water Damage Event

5/24/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

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

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian

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

Have Water Damage in your business? Call us today! 410-867-3590

Does Your South County Home Have A Mold Problem?

5/20/2016 (Permalink)

In South County, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

·         Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.

·         Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.

·         Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.

·         Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.

·         Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

·         Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-867-3590

South County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

5/10/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in South County.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today – 410-867-3590

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

·         Your name and contact information

·         Your insurance information (if applicable)

·         The street address of the water-damaged home or business

·         When did the flooding or water damage occur?

·         What caused the water damage (if known)?

·         Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian

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

The 3 Categories of Water Damage

5/3/2016 (Permalink)

In the event of a water damage, We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure our professionals restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use.

Category 1 Water Damage

That which is clean at the releasing source and does not pose a hazard if consumed by humans. Category 1 water may become progressively contaminated as it mixes with soils on or within floor coverings or building assemblies (walls, decking, subflooring). Time and temperature, which promote the growth and amplification of microorganisms in water can cause Category 1 water to degrade. Examples: burst water pipes, failed supply lines on appliances, vertically falling rainwater.

Category 2 Water Damage

That which begins with some degree of contamination and could cause sickness or discomfort if consumed by humans. As with Category 1 water, time and temperature can cause Category 2 water to become progressively more contaminated.

Category 3 Water Damage

That which is highly contaminated and could cause death or serious illness if consumed by humans. Examples: sewage, rising flood water from rivers and streams, ground surface water flowing horizontally into homes. There are two ways in which water enters a building as a result of wind storm damage:

The first involves falling or windblown rainwater that enters as a result of damage to roof components or wall assemblies. The second involves horizontally traveling ground surface water (Category 3) containing silt and soil contaminants that infiltrate into structures, generally through doors or around foundation walls. This ground surface water (storm surge) may accumulate to a depth of several inches or several feet. When structures are partially submerged or remain substantially flooded for weeks, far more elaborate procedures usually are required.

Have a water damage emergency? Call us today, 410-867-3590

Why choose SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian?

4/26/2016 (Permalink)

We are Faster to any Size Disaster

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian is dedicated to responding immediately when you need help with a fire or water damage event. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost. We are available 24 hours and day, 7 days a week.

We are Fire and Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian specializes in fire and water damage restoration. Our technicians have extensive training and equipment to get you back to pre-fire condition. Our technicians are experts in fire & smoke restoration, odor identification and removal, upholstery & fabric cleaning, and water damage restoration.

SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Offers:
·         Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
·         Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
·         Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
·         Cleaning and Repair
·         Restoration

We know how devastating a fire can be. Fire and water damage can leave your home unsafe and unlivable. We clean and restore your property using specialized equipment and cleaning techniques so you can get back to your life.

Call us today at 410-867-3590
“Like it never even happened.”

2016 Public Safety Awards Ceremony

4/26/2016 (Permalink)

2016 Public Safety Awards Ceremony

SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park Commercial Marketing Rep, Trish Turner was in attendence at the 2016 Public Safety Awards Ceremony. The 100 Club of Anne Arundel County provides supplemental benefits to the families of Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters and Emergency Medical Personal who have lost their lives in the Line of Duty in service to Anne Arundel County. 

Thank you for your service. We proudly support you.  

South County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

4/25/2016 (Permalink)

Basement Flooding in South County

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

·         A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

·         Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

·         Storm sewer backup

·         Sanitary sewer backup

·         Foundation drainage failure

·         Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

·         And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian

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

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

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

·         We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week

·         We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies

·         We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About

·         Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques

·         We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

·         Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 410-867-3590

Annapolis Regional Library

4/12/2016 (Permalink)

Annapolis Regional Library reopened today! SERVPRO Owner, Diane Whittles, and General Manager, Chris Goedeke are pictured with library staff Rudy Rodela, Maribel Ibrahim, and Gloria Harbertz.  SERVPRO of Annapolis was thrilled to be a part of the process, drying out an essential county facility!  Whittles said, “We perform restoration services daily but to work with such a cooperative and cohesive team at the library made our job that much easier.  I hope county residents realize how fortunate we are to have the plentiful resources provided by county libraries and their dedicated staff!”  

What's Lurking in your ducts?

4/4/2016 (Permalink)

Dust, pet dander, and other containments from everyday living are circulated through your ducts and can decrease the efficiency of your HVAC heating and cooling system causing it to work much harder. Keeping the ductwork clean can extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which saves you money.

Duct Cleaning Can:

• Remediate Bacteria, Fungi and Mold
• Reduce Potential for Mold Growth
• Restore Peak Energy Efficiency
• Eliminate Offensive Odors

Since the ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor
indoor air quality, keeping your ductwork clean should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home. These Contaminants from day to day living are sucked into your HVAC system and recirculated throughout your home over and over. This causes a buildup over time inside the ductwork. This buildup can cause problems for people with asthma and other respiratory health conditions, auto immune disorders, and environmental allergies. 

The EPA’s website states: “In the last several years, a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. Other research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors.” Cleaning your ducts can sweep away years of dust and dirt, helping to reduce potential for damage and health risks.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. This includes certain odors as well. In these cases a Duct Cleaning Professional can often restore the ductwork to pre-damage condition. It is also recommended that you have the ductwork cleaned after buying a home or after a renovation.  Just like carpet cleaning, having your ductwork cleaned should be part of your home maintenance routine. 

Call us today to schedule your duct cleaning! 410-867-3590

Spring Cleaning

3/23/2016 (Permalink)

Spring is here, it’s finally here! Now it’s time to get started on your spring cleaning “to do list”. Spring cleaning is a tradition that allows us to freshen up our homes after a long winter. So open up those windows, let the fresh air in, and call SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian to help you with those deep cleaning tasks!

 We offer a variety of services to get your home spring ready including:

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning:
The SERVPRO carpet and upholstery cleaning service will not only get out the dirt you see, but will also remove the unwanted dust you don’t. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening up a room and freshening up your home.

Hard Floors:
Months of salt and dirt tracked into your home and onto your tiled floors? Our technicians can clean the tile and grout and make it like winter never even happened.

Air Duct Cleaning:
We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.

Odor Removal:
Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.

Remember, spring cleaning isn’t only for your home, but also for offices, daycares, businesses, and warehouses. Let us help you get ready for warm weather.

Call us today to schedule a cleaning service, 410-867-3590!

Take Action after a Natural Disaster

3/17/2016 (Permalink)

Image credit ABC News

If your property has been damaged in a natural disaster—hurricane, tornado, flood, earthquake or fire—there are some important steps you can take in the immediate aftermath to ensure your safety and minimize financial loss. Consider the following actions:

Enter with caution. Damaged homes or buildings could be structurally unsafe; use extreme caution when navigating those areas, and don’t enter unless absolutely necessary. Debris and other hazards are unsafe.

Secure the property. In cases of significant structural damage or security concerns, determine whether the damaged area needs to be secured with temporary fencing or another type of barrier to keep out unwanted guests.

Notify your insurer. Call your insurance company to inform them there’s been a disaster and to file an official claim. Take down the claim number and any relevant contact information for whomever will handle your claim. If your vehicle sustained damage, contact your automobile insurer.

Notify utility companies. If property damage includes disruption to water, gas or electric utilities, contact the companies right away to shut off service. Failing to do so could pose a safety risk to you or emergency responders in and around the disaster area.

Take photos of the damage. Beginning with the property’s exterior, take photographs of the damage. If it’s safe to enter the structure, take photographs of interior damage as well. These will come in handy for insurance purposes.

Take inventory of your damaged belongings. Make a list of your damaged personal items and ensure you have photographs. Include the price of large appliances or valuable items with your list and, if possible, surviving receipts.

Do You Have Flood or Storm Damage? Fire Damage? Call Us Today (410) 867-3590

Positions Available

3/3/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Annapolis/Severna Park is Hiring! Join our team today! 

About the Position:

We are currently interested in selecting a Water Restoration Tech and Production Helpers to join our team.  The details for this positions are as follows:

Responsibilities:

·         Perform disaster restoration services in accordance with SERVPRO Production Guidelines

·         Comply with safety practices

·         Job-site management

·         Job file documentation

·         Monitor, communicate and respond to customer needs

·         Communicate job-site details to Production Manager

·         Participate in maintenance of equipment, vehicles and facilities

·         Other responsibilities as assigned

Requirements:

·         Valid driver’s license

·         Excellent communication and organizational skills

·         Availability to work beyond standard operating hours (evenings, weekends, etc.) when needed

·         Ability to be on-call for emergency services (on rotation)

·         Must pass criminal background check

Bonus Points:

·         IICRC Certifications

Perks:

·         Aggressive benefits package

·         Excellent opportunity for advancement

·         Opportunity to earn pay increases, bonuses and promotions based on exceptional performance rather than seniority

Email Resume to Brittany@SERVPROannapolis.com

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

2/24/2016 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your home, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

 SERVPRO is faster to any disaster. We’re dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost. As leaders in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

What you can do until help arrives:

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

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Do you have a water emergency? Call us today at 410-867-3590

Sewage Backups

2/22/2016 (Permalink)

Water from sewer system backups should be considered very dangerous. The water is grossly unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could cause serious illness. Special training and equipment is necessary to safely clean this type of contamination.

There are three major types of contaminated water. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian will inspect that contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Emergency Service

Sewage backup should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. We are the water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business.

Sewage Backup or Toilet Overflow? Call Us Today – 410-867-3590

Freezing Pipes

2/11/2016 (Permalink)

One of the most common things to happen to a home during a cold snap is water damage caused by frozen pipes, especially if your pipes aren't insulated. Even where extremely cold weather is normal in winter, pipes freeze and cause all kinds of problems. Pipes freeze when they're exposed to freezing weather for a few days. Problems come up when frozen pipes thaw; cold weather makes pipes brittle and frozen water has less volume than running water. The pipe breaks due to the cold, water starts running and then you've got a mess on your hands.

Pipes can freeze in 2 main areas – water coming in and water going out. You know water coming in is frozen because nothing comes out the tap. Frozen outgoing pipes from showers, toilets and sinks are a bigger problem because these will back up into the house; that's the reason it's always recommended to keep a little water dripping into the sinks and opening the cabinet doors under the sink ... running water doesn't freeze as easily as standing water.

Every winter season, the pipes in your home are at risk of damage from freezing conditions. Low temperatures can cause your water pipes to freeze, and in some cases burst. Here in Maryland, we can go days with temperatures in the teens. The following tips can help you safeguard your home before, during and after a pipe freezes.

Prevent Your Pipe From Freezing

Monitor Freezing Pipe Conditions

If a Pipe Bursts 

Do you have water damage from the storm?

2/11/2016 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian Professionals respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. They closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

Check out the tips below on what to do until help arrives.

What you can do until help arrives

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

Have A Water Damage Emergency? 
Call 410-867-3590

What to Do After Flooding

What NOT To Do After Flooding

Emergency Ready Profile

1/28/2016 (Permalink)

GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A SECOND CHANCE

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are “Ready for whatever happens” speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

Call 410-867-3590 today for your free Emergency Ready Profile! 

Employee Spotlight

1/21/2016 (Permalink)

Congratulations to our Production Manager Nick Whittles, he is now certified in Applied Structural Drying! The IICRC-approved Applied Structural Drying (ASD) course is designed to teach the effective, efficient and timely drying of water-damaged structures and contents, using comprehensive classroom and hands-on training, in order to facilitate appropriate decision making within a restorative drying environment. 

Emergency Ready Profile

1/14/2016 (Permalink)

Are you “Ready for whatever happens?”

Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster, whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood.  The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile serves as a quick reference of important building and contact information or can be an ideal supplement to any well-designed emergency preparedness or existing contingency program.  Rather than simply reacting to disaster situations, most prefer proactive measures to establish a relationship with a restoration services company.  

By working with SERVPRO® of Edgewater/Deale-Churchton/Lothian to develop your personalized Emergency READY Profile your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster.  SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.

Call Us at 410-647-8181 Today for a No Cost Assessment of Your Facility!

Before Winter Storms

1/14/2016 (Permalink)

Winter Storms & Extreme Cold