The Link Between Water Damage and Mold | SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin is the restoration company you can depend on

What makes SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin stand above other restoration companies?

1. Extensive Network and Prompt Response:

SERVPRO's widespread network of franchises is a key factor that sets us apart from our competitors. With locations across North America, SERVPRO can respond swiftly to emergencies, ensuring that help is readily available. This extensive coverage gives clients the confidence that they can rely on SERVPRO no matter where they are, a distinct advantage over restoration companies with more limited reach.

2. Technological Innovation:

SERVPRO's commitment to staying at the forefront of technology and innovation in the restoration industry is a significant competitive edge. The company consistently invests in state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge techniques, enabling us to handle restoration projects efficiently and effectively. This dedication to technological advancement positions SERVPRO as a leader in the industry, capable of delivering results that surpass client expectations.

3. Highly Trained and Certified Professionals:

The emphasis on continuous training and education for SERVPRO technicians is a testament to the company's commitment to expertise. The restoration industry is dynamic, with evolving standards and best practices. SERVPRO's highly trained and IICRC certified professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate these changes seamlessly. Clients can trust that their restoration projects are in capable hands, with technicians who prioritize precision and excellence.

4. Comprehensive Range of Services:

SERVPRO's versatility in offering a comprehensive range of services distinguishes it as a one-stop solution for restoration needs. Whether facing water damage, storm damage, fire damage, mold remediation, commercial restoration, general cleaning, or other issues, clients can rely on SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin to provide expert solutions. This breadth of services simplifies the restoration process for clients, eliminating the need to coordinate with multiple companies for different aspects of a project.

5. 24/7 Emergency Response:

Disasters don't adhere to regular business hours, and we recognize the urgency of addressing restoration needs promptly. With a 24/7 emergency response service, clients can reach out to us at any time, ensuring that help is just a phone call away. This commitment to round-the-clock availability showcases SERVPRO' of Fenton/South Ballwin's dedication to being there for clients when they need assistance the most.

6. Restore Rather Than Replace Philosophy:

SERVPRO employs a "restore rather than replace" philosophy, demonstrating a commitment to both cost-effectiveness and environmental responsibility. By prioritizing restoration, waste is minimized and the environmental impact is reduced. This approach not only appeals to clients looking for sustainable solutions but also contributes to SERVPRO's reputation as a socially responsible company.

7. Stellar Reputation:

A stellar reputation is a valuable asset in any industry, and we have earned the trust of countless clients over the years. Positive reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth recommendations contribute to our standing as a reputable and reliable choice in the restoration industry. Our strong reputation instills confidence in potential clients, assuring them of the quality of service they can expect from us.

8. Transparent Communication:

Effective communication is a cornerstone of client satisfaction, and SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin excels in keeping clients informed throughout the restoration process. From initial assessment to project completion, clients are provided with clear and transparent communication. This open dialogue ensures that clients have a thorough understanding of the work being done and allows for any questions or concerns to be addressed promptly.

9. Strategic Insurance Partnerships:

SERVPRO's strategic partnerships with major insurance companies streamline the restoration process for clients dealing with insurance claims. We understand the complexities of the claims process and collaborates closely with insurers to expedite the resolution. This level of cooperation not only reduces the burden on clients but also sets SERVPRO apart by providing a seamless and hassle-free experience during what can already be a stressful time.

In conclusion, our advantage over other restoration companies lies in our extensive network, technological innovation, highly trained professionals, comprehensive services, 24/7 emergency response, restore rather than replace philosophy, stellar reputation, transparent communication, and strategic insurance partnerships. Collectively, these factors position us as the standout choice for individuals and businesses seeking top-notch restoration services in the Fenton and South Ballwin, Missouri area. 

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Service Company | SERVPRO® of Fenton/South Ballwin

11/20/2021 (Permalink)

You can rest easy knowing you've got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line. SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin.

If you’ve been a business or home owner for any length of time, you’re probably already familiar with the queasy feeling that one day you might have to deal with the effects of a fire, natural disaster or something that would otherwise damage your property.

Situations like those require quick decision-making as you sift through prospective service companies to help you get recovery underway. But it’s crucial that you are as informed as you can be before making that important decision.

To guide yourself in the right direction, ask these questions of any service company to decide if they’re worthy of your trust.

Are They Legit?

In times of crisis, especially after area-wide disasters, it’s important to protect yourself from scammers. People may come around with business cards and offers for work quotes that seem too good to be true, but truthfully they’re just putting the “con” in contractor. Make sure any company you seek out is based locally, with a reputable service record among your neighbors and friends.

We at SERVPRO have worked hard for over 50 years to establish ourselves as the industry leader, and we’ve done it one satisfied home or business owner at a time.

Our rep is further solidified by national relationships with organizations like the PGA Tour who depend on SERVPRO to maintain and care for some of the most pristine facilities in the entire nation and to help with recovery when necessary.

Will They Be There When I Need Help?

If your water heater explodes at midnight, do you want to wait until the next morning to get somebody on the phone to help? Absolutely not.

That’s why SERVPRO is available for emergencies 24 hours a day, every single day. When you’ve got a problem, we’ve got your back fast.

Where’s a Fleet When You Need One?

SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin is as local as it gets—we’re centralized right here in the neighborhood, and that helps us reach you quickly and provide expertise specific to the area. But if the need arises, we have a massive network of help upon which we can call at a moment’s notice.

When we light the signal, the 1,800-franchise SERVPRO network responds to the call.

When you call SERVPRO, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line. When disaster hits home, contact us to get our local experts and nationwide network on your side.

Why Fenton Home and Business Owners Trust Us | SERVPRO® of Fenton/South Ballwin

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin is your restoration expert.

Being a home or business owner means holding a delicate ecosystem in balance. Everything has to be tightly managed, because if something goes off kilter, it throws everything off.

But sometimes an unforeseen event occurs that flips that balance on its side—natural disasters, fires or burst pipes are a few pertinent examples—and you’ve got something on your hands you’re not equipped to deal with.

That’s when you contact us.

We’re Always Ready and Faster to Any Size Disaster

When the balance is broken, we’re ready to leap into action. We’ll be onsite faster than anyone else in the industry, because every second counts when it comes to recovery.

Wasted time means more dangerous black mold, more waterlogged carpet or a smoke smell that won’t go away. A rapid response makes all the difference, and having a SERVPRO team right here in West Kirkwood/Sunset Hills means you get the advantage of an agile local team of experts combined with the muscle and resources of the nationwide SERVPRO network.

We’re Trained to Handle Residential and Commercial Services

One size doesn’t fit all, and your situation will call for specific solutions.

We’ve spent the last 50-plus years learning and crafting plans to meet the needs of millions of customers, and you can rest assured that we’ll give you exactly what you need and burden you with nothing you don’t.

We’ll Make It "Like it never even happened."

While our methods are numerous, our promise is one: We’re determined to leave your home or business better than we found it, with all traces of incident removed, restored and recovered.

We Offer the Services You Need in a Changing World

In the new age of global virus consciousness, part of any business plan is customer safety. Fortunately, we’ve developed the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program so you can safeguard employees and customers alike, and they can walk into your business with confidence, knowing you’ve put their health above all else.

Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, the technicians and the training to get your situation under control. When you’re ready to get help from the best, get in touch with SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin.

The Building Envelope - Effects on the Drying Process

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Building and Materials can affect the outcome of the drying process

Building and material science is an ever-developing field. Our industry understands more about various materials and how to dry those materials than ever before, but there is certainly more for our industry to learn. As a restorer, our understanding of how buildings are put together (residential and commercial) will determine the effectiveness of our moisture inspections, material and assembly identification, and creation of a detailed demo and drying plan. The more understanding about buildings and materials, the more issues we can anticipate (and the more surprises you can limit).

A solid grasp of building and material science separates the “novice” who simply places drying equipment and the “professional” who establishes a drying plan based on project needs and challenges.

The building’s envelope can have a profound impact on the effectiveness of the drying plan. This is more concerning when outside weather conditions are not favorable for drying (high humidity).

The building envelope separates the interior of a building from the outside environment. The building envelope can include roofs, ceilings, exterior walls, doors, windows, finished floors, and foundations. The building envelope has several purposes such as keeping out wind, rain, and ground water, as well as controlling the transfer of energy between the inside and the outside. Some people refer to this energy control as the energy efficiency of the building. Ideally, the building envelope helps maintain a comfortable temperature and humidity for occupants, while providing adequate ventilation inside. When done properly, the building envelope can help avoid problems such as mold, poor indoor air quality, and water intrusion. Because of the potential impact of energy, air, and moisture movement, even small changes to the envelope can have a dramatic effect on the entire structure.

Structures are not airtight, meaning they are going to leak air. The IICRC S500 identifies three types of building envelopes: tight, moderate, and loose. These are based on the envelopes “ability to keep the outside conditions from adversely influencing the drying environment”. The S500 somewhat defines each of these.

Tight envelope – “drying conditions can be     controlled without significant influence by the outdoors”.

Moderate envelope – “drying conditions will be influenced somewhat by the outdoors”.

Loose envelope – “drying conditions will be significantly influenced by the outdoors”.

There are several factors that help our project managers determine whether the building envelope is tight, moderate, or loose. This includes how often doors or windows are opened; as well as damage to the envelope such as roof, window, or weather strip damage. Our project managers and SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin must also consider the building construction such as vapor barriers or insulation. Even the age of the structure is an indicator. Older homes (built prior to 1990) typically have a loose envelope due to the lack of focus on energy efficiency when they were constructed.

Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleanup

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Recognized as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider by hundreds of insurance companies, SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley's professionals also offer fast, reliable biohazard and crime scene cleanup services to residential and commercial property owners.

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences for building occupants, employees, customers, and owners. A failure to properly handle and safely remove such hazardous substances can contribute to unhealthy and even dangerous environments.

We are trained so safely and effectively remove biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

We can help with the following issues:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Crime Scene Residues
• Arson
• Vandalism
• Sewage Backups
• Black Water Intrusions
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

We are available 24 hours a day to help with any situation that may arise! 636-527-5990

IICRC Firm

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up to date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops the Standards for the Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin

SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.

SERVPRO Services

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Local Firehouse

One of SERVPRO’s spectacular services is coming to the forefront during this crazy time we’re living in. SERVPRO has a plethora of options for commercial cleaning which include carpet cleaning, duct cleaning, general cleaning and bioremediation. During the outbreak of this Coronavirus pandemic, the bioremediation piece is more important than ever. Non-essential businesses have been shut down, and essential ones are at risk for business interruption. SERVPRO is here to help put a stop to this. SERVPRO Franchises are performing disinfecting services for this awful virus. SERVPRO is doing their part to keep businesses running and using their disinfecting services for the good of the community. Several franchises have been disinfecting our First Responders’ vehicles free of charge. SERVPRO follows the CDC’s guidelines on all of these cleans and only uses EPA registered disinfectants to get the job done. This proves that your local SERVPRO Franchise will get the job done right and get it done safely. Contact SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin for any of your commercial cleaning needs. Whether that be disinfecting to keep you in business or just a carpet clean to keep your business looking fresh. Call (636) 527-5990

Faster to Any Size Disaster

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Faster to Any Size Disaster

Here at SERVPRO, we have a strict set of response guidelines that make us “Faster to Any Size Disaster”. These guidelines are known as the 1-4-8 rule. 1: The one in 1-4-8 means that a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will contact you to arrange services within one hour of receiving the loss notice. 4: The four stands for the time it will take to have a SERVPRO Professional at your home or place of business. After receiving the initial loss notification, SERVPRO will have one of their qualified professionals on-site within four hours to begin services. 8: Lastly, the eight in 1-4-8 pertains to a SERVPRO Professional providing a scope of work to the responsible party for the loss. Because of SERVPRO’s 1-4-8 rule, the company makes a promise that they will be there for its customers in a time of need, and in a timely manner. This allows your home or company to be back to working condition in the most efficient amount of time. The 1-4-8 guideline is an important aspect of what makes SERVPRO “Faster to Any Size Disaster”. #SERVPROFENTONSOUTHBALLWIN

Corrosion Control

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Mitigation services help prevent additional damages. Loss mitigation services include winterization to prevent freezing, controlling corrosion, and cleaning surfaces to prevent staining.

As soot combines with atmospheric water vapor, it becomes acidic. Neutralization of acid smoke residue is a fundamental part of the initial stages of corrosion prevention. In most cases, alkaline solutions are used to help remove and neutralize the acid smoke residue.

After removing the smoke residue from metallic and plastic laminate surfaces, apply an oil-based coating (Many restoration professionals use a common lubricant like WD-40). This treatment will slow down and/or inhibit corrosion and discoloration by airborne smoke particles that remain after the Project Manger completes the emergency service visit. This simple, but often overlooked, step can help to reduce overall replacement costs.

Initial Emergency Smoke Odor Reduction

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

Removing smoke odor contamination is always the first step in effective, permanent odor control. Next to establishing safe working conditions, prevention or reduction of smoke odor penetration should always be among the first orders of business when arriving to a fire-damaged structure. Odors are likely to be pronounced when you first arrive. This is because odors are most apparent when humidity and temperature are elevated - typical condition immediately after a fire has been extinguished.

Whenever possible, charred, unsalvageable materials should be removed at the outset of a restoration job to help eliminate odors and additional soiling. In most smoke odor situations, the best overall system for removal of intense smoke odors requires a combination of techniques and procedures.

Call us today for additional tips on reducing smoke odor following a fire in your home or business!

Board-Up: Securing your home or business

4/11/2019 (Permalink)

If doors or windows have been damaged or destroyed in a fire, rain and wind may enter the building and cause further damage. Also, curious onlookers or vandals may attempt to enter a damaged building. To help prevent these problems, it may be necessary to "board-up" the property. 

The board-up procedures should provide durable protection for the damaged structure and cause minimal additional damage to building surfaces. Board-up methods include: 

• Cover-over
• Fitted inserts
• Bolt tension
• Tarps and shrink wrap systems

The cover-over system is easy to install and probably most applicable on roofs. Large expanses of roof can be covered quickly with heavy-duty tarps. Fitted insert board-ups are more difficult to install but are more weather tight than the cover-over system.

Bolt tension methods are relatively easy to install and have the advantage of being weather resistant and difficult for intruders to disengage. Placing carpet or carpet pad on the interior brace will prevent additional damage to wall surfaces. 

Protecting your Carpet

4/2/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet Delamination

Once the water migration edge is located, it is important to protect furniture from contact with wet carpet. Simple foam furniture blocks, foil, or plastic tabs accomplish this task. Blocking furniture accomplishes several important goals, including:

• the prevention of color transfer between furniture and carpet (which causes staining)
• the prevention of rust stains
• the facilitating of effective and efficient drying by elevating furniture (especially low or heavy furniture such as bookcases)

In some restoration projects it is necessary to remove the carpet pad. This process will require the Project Manager to disengage stretched-in carpeting. Because carpet loses 80%-85% of its strength when it is wet, it is vital to treat carpet as gentle as possible until it dries.

Whenever carpet must be disengaged from the tack strip, a knee kicker and carpet awl must be used. The knee kicker is used to release the tension on the carpet and move it away from the tack strip. Then, the carpet awl is pierced through the carpet's primary and secondary backing and used to lift it up and away from the tack strip. This method of disengagement effectively reduces the possibility of delamination.

Carpet is disengaged around the perimeter of the room, then rolled back in one direction to expose the pad beneath. The majority of pad has a skin or mesh on the top side. The purpose of this skin is to ease carpet stretching during installation.

Heroes for Kids Telethon for Shriners Hospital for Children - St Louis

3/29/2019 (Permalink)

Chestnas SERVPRO Team donating our check from the 7th Annual SERVPRO Golf Tournament to benefit Shriners Hospital for Children - St Louis.

We joined KMOV and Shriners Hospitals for Children - St Louis yesterday for the KMOV Cares: Heroes for Kids Telethon. During this day of inspiration we heard firsthand experiences and stories from the people who make Shriners Hospital so special. Thank you to everyone who donated to Shriners Hospital - St Louis during the Heroes for Kids Telethon! Over $100,000 was donated during the telethon yesterday.

Our Shriners Hospital specializes in children's orthopedics, from simple fractures to complex surgeries. They will treat your children like their own, regardless of your ability to pay. They are working hard to transform children's lives and provide them with a brighter future.

Shriners Hospital for Children - St Louis has a special place in the hearts of the Chestnas SERVPRO Team. One of our franchise owners, Jeff Chestnas, has been a part of the Shriners Organization for over 9 years by giving back his time, efforts, and money to help this organization succeed. We happily donate to Shriners Hospital for Children - St Louis every year, by hosting our annual golf tournament. The Chestnas SERVPRO Team was able to donate $25,400 to the hospital from the 7th Annual SERVPRO Golf Tournament, and hope to surpass that number at the 8th Annual SERVPRO Golf Tournament later this year.

The tournament will be held on August 28, 2019 at Tapawingo National Golf Club. To play, donate, sponsor or help out please call (314) 858-1688 with any questions. 

Red Cross Month - Be a Hero in Your Community

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

March is Red Cross Month, a tradition begun by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1943. President Donald Trump has proclaimed March as Red Cross Month across the country. You can read the entire proclamation here.

During Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross asks everyone to be a hero in their community by becoming a volunteer, learning lifesaving skills, giving blood or donating to #help1family on Red Cross Giving Day, March 27.

The need to help people is constant—and the past year of busy disaster activity was no exception. For 324 consecutive days, more than 43,000 people relied on the Red Cross for emergency shelter following events like record wildfires, hurricanes, floods and large apartment fires. From April 2018 to February 2019, more than 11,500 Red Cross volunteers left the comfort of their own homes to provide comfort, care and a safe place to sleep for tens of thousands affected by disasters.

“During Red Cross Month, we honor the volunteer heroes who help families overcome life’s emergencies every day,” said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. “These champions are our neighbors—ordinary people who make an extraordinary difference to ease the suffering of others, whether it’s saving a person’s life with CPR, donating blood for a hospital patient with life-threatening conditions, or comforting a family overwhelmed by a home fire or other crisis. We ask you to consider joining these heroes to answer the call for service in your community.”

There are lots of ways you can help. Does responding to local or national disasters appeal to you? How about helping hospital patients by sponsoring a blood drive or greeting blood donors at bloodmobiles?

Would you like to support our Services to the Armed Forces program by helping patients in military hospitals and at Veterans’ Administration facilities? Is teaching something you like to do? Why not be a volunteer instructor and teach first aid / CPR / AED classes or babysitting classes?

How about helping people all over the world? Become an International Humanitarian Law instructor.  Or you could support our International Tracing Services and reunite families living overseas, in war-torn countries or even in your community.

Savvy on social media? Be an online advocate and tell the Red Cross story. Serve on local boards and help with fundraising and marketing. Be part of the behind-the-scenes Red Cross team by volunteering in our offices.

These are just a few of the ways you can make a difference as a Red Cross volunteer. To find out more, including how to apply, visit the ‘Volunteer’ information on redcross.org.

HOW YOU CAN #HELP1FAMILY Learn more about how you can help in your area by contacting your local Red Cross chapter or visiting redcross.org:

In addition to volunteering, you can:

• Give blood: Make an appointment to donate lifesaving blood or platelets.
• Learn lifesaving skills: Register for a class to learn first aid, CPR and other skills.
• Make a financial donation: On March 27—American Red Cross Giving Day—donate at redcross.org/givingday, uniting with thousands of people like you to help families during the first devastating hours of a disaster. Your gift can provide hope and urgent relief like food, shelter and other essentials for families who need it most.

Here at SERVPRO of Fenton/South Ballwin, we have seen these amazing volunteers out assisting our homeowners who have been affected by fire damages. Not only do they have great compassion but are assisting with basic needs during their hardship.#SERVPROSTRONG #REDCROSSHERO