SERVPRO: Doing Our Best For The Durango Community

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

We are always ready to serve

The Durango area is full of natural wonders and rich in local history. There is so much to love here, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or just want to enjoy some shopping.

Unfortunately, though, this area can also be vulnerable to storms, wildfires and other disasters. At times like these you need a neighbor you can rely on.

That’s exactly the role of SERVPRO in the Durango community and we’re proud to fulfill that need.

As a locally owned franchise, we certainly understand the many challenges our weather can present and we’re ready to meet them.  At the same time, we have the reliability of the SERVPRO brand, with more than 1,700 franchises nationwide.

That’s a reputation we’ve earned through the efforts of our Disaster Recovery Team, which has provided help to communities across the country as they recover from wildfires, tornadoes and other major storms.

Here in Durango, we put our focus on serving the local community because being good neighbors is important to us. We’re ready to respond faster to any disaster and help everyone from individual homeowners to businesses both large and small.

We’ll do everything we can to help restore your property and give you the peace of mind to know that you don’t have to go through the recovery alone.

At SERVPRO we’re more than just experts in fire, water and storm damage restoration; we’re also proud members of the Durango community. We are guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster and we treat every property as if it’s our own. 

That’s the unique role of SERVPRO in the Durango community, providing the professional service you expect with the personal touch that every member of this community deserves. 

From the moment you first call us, we’ll do everything we can to provide you with expertise and support to get you through each step of the recovery process. Because community means everything to us, SERVPRO never signs off on a job until we know that you are satisfied. That’s the SERVPRO difference, a difference you can trust.

Restoration Begins With Water Damage Assessment in DURANGO

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

It's important to do water damage assessments fast

From its start as a mining community to the present day, where it has become the most populous municipality in La Plata County, Durango has always been a thriving center of activity.

The historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway once brought people and supplies to the area and now serves as a historic landmark and tourist attraction.

Visitors and businesses have found this a great place to settle and with all of the natural beauty it’s easy to see why.

Unfortunately, it can also sometimes be vulnerable to water emergencies, from storm flooding to broken appliances or burst pipes. At times like these, you need to have a water damage assessment Durango can trust and that’s where SERVPRO can make a real difference.

We have the professional training and equipment necessary to handle any water related emergency and we’re ready to respond faster to any disaster.

What Does Water Damage Assessment Entail?

Any recovery process begins with a thorough assessment of the damage. Assessing simply means looking over the situation, identifying any immediate issues and determining what steps will be necessary to achieve complete recovery and restoration. It may seem like a very straightforward step, but it can be the most crucial when you’re dealing with an emergency.

The first step in assessment is identifying the source of the water and taking immediate steps to stop it

The sooner you can stop the flow, the better your chances of preventing serious damage to the affected room and any adjacent areas.

It’s also critical to check the water and determine its level of contamination because that can dictate the specific approach necessary during cleanup.

Water can have several categories of contamination based on the level of severity, ranging from category 1, which is considered “clean” water to category 3, which may contain serious biohazards like bacteria. Providing water damage assessment Durango can rely on, SERVPRO technicians are trained to identify the level of severity and follow the industry standards for safety.

Once we’ve determined the category, we’ll know exactly what kind of equipment the cleanup and restoration require.

Finally, we’ll survey the extent of the damage and look for any other safety hazards, including the presence of asbestos or lead and we’ll move any furniture or other items to protect them from harm and block carpeting and floors from rust or staining.

Trust The Pros of SERVPRO

A water related emergency can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but there’s no reason for you to go it alone. Call SERVPRO and you can rest easy knowing we’ll be on the job as fast as possible and won’t sign off until we know you’re satisfied. 

For water damage assessment Durango expects the best and that means trusting the pros of SERVPRO. We’re ready to take your call 24/7 and we’ll treat your property as if it was our own so you can put the disaster behind you and get back to enjoying everything Durango has to offer.

Water Damage Cleanup Durango Can Count On

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

Special equipment is needed to get the job done right

Water can be far more destructive than most people realize. Everything from storm related flooding to a burst pipe can leave your property vulnerable and you feeling stressed.

At times like these you need the kind of water damage cleanup Durango has been counting on for years and that means turning to the professionals of SERVPRO.

There is so much to love about Durango and the surrounding area, from the quaint historic district of Main Avenue to the many shops and gourmet restaurants.

This has long been a mecca for foodies, a haven for historians and a great place to settle down and start a business. Unfortunately, though, even the incredible natural beauty of our surroundings doesn’t always protect Durango’s residents from the threat of water related emergencies.

SERVPRO has been a member of this community for many years and we know how devastating water damage can be

That’s why we’re ready to respond faster to any disaster, with someone waiting to take your call 24/7.  It’s also why we undergo cutting edge training and employ the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to tackle any job, large or small.

The Professional Approach That Makes A Difference

We understand how important your recovery is and we take great care to ensure that your property looks “like it never even happened”.  Our carefully structured process begins with your initial call and continues with a technician arriving at your location within four hours to thoroughly assess the damage and formulate a plan to address it.

We’ll use industrial grade equipment, including submersible pumps, wet/dry vacuums, moisture detectors and hygrometers to ensure that every bit of water is removed from both surfaces and the air. 

Dehumidifiers and air movers help to thoroughly dry everything from floors to walls to furniture and air scrubbers and foggers will be used to help clean and sanitize since water can often carry hazardous contaminants.

Of course, part of what helps us provide the water damage cleanup Durango trusts is that we don’t stop until we know you’re satisfied. That can mean providing repair and reconstruction such as drywall removal and installation, hardwood or tile floor repair, painting or carpet repair and installation.

We’ll even help you take a full inventory to expedite filing your insurance claim so you can get the compensation you deserve.

Restoring Your Peace Of Mind

At SERVPRO we don’t just restore your property; we also take pride in restoring your peace of mind. We know how devastating this process can be and that’s why we treat every property as if it were our own. Being a good neighbor is important to us, so we will stick with you every step of the way so that you don’t have to go through it alone.

That’s the kind of water damage cleanup Durango needs and it is something only SERVPRO can provide.

So when water damage strikes your property, call SERVPRO and we’ll help you start healing right away

Call The Pros To Handle Hail Damage in DURANGO

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

Hail can create a lot of damage.

You’ve probably heard weather reports about “golf ball sized hail” resulting from passing storms. Hail doesn’t happen very often but when it does, even the smallest size pieces can do a great deal of damage as they strike your roof, windows, doors or siding.

That’s something that SERVPRO understands all too well and we’re ready to provide the professional treatment of hail damage Durango can trust.

The Durango area offers so many ways to take in the great outdoors, from the breathtaking trails of Purgatory Ski Resort and gold medal fishing in the Animas River, to a ride on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway or a visit to one of the many nearby archeological sites.

With all that to enjoy, it can be difficult to imagine nature becoming destructive but unfortunately that’s a reality of life here too. 

SERVPRO has the training and expertise to handle all hail damage, no matter how severe it may be. We can handle any size property, from small homes to large businesses, so that you can put the damage behind you and get on the road to recovery.

Because we understand the damage hail can do, we are prepared to take any steps necessary to help you recover and rebuild.

Just How Serious Is Hail Damage?

Hail can vary in size from as small as a pea to as large as a softball, but it’s not just the size of these chunks of frozen rain that makes them dangerous.

Falling from a great distance, individual pieces of hail will pick up great speed before they make impact.

With that much speed behind them, even the smallest pieces of hail can cause cracks, dents or breaks when they hit a solid surface.

As the initial point of impact, it’s no surprise that your roof usually sustains the most damage. Falling hail can easily wear away the protective granules on shingles that are designed to deflect the heat of the sun or even cause cracks or breaks to the shingles themselves.

Determining the full extent of hail damage requires the type of professional expertise and training that SERVPRO can provide.

Hail can also seriously damage windows, siding, air conditioner units, chimneys and flue vents, all of which can leave your home or business vulnerable to further damage.

Cracks, holes and breaks can allow water to seep inside, rotting wood and weakening underlying support structures.

The sooner you can safely and thoroughly address the effects of hail damage, the better off your whole property will be.

 SERVPRO Can Help You Recover

For protection from hail damage Durango can trust, SERVPRO is the name you should turn to after any storm. We are ready to take your call 24/7 so the recovery can begin right away and we’ve got the training and equipment necessary to handle any size job.

Hail can take a real toll on your property but SERVPRO is ready to help make you whole again.

Storm Damage Recovery in Durango

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

Water can quietly damage your home

There’s no denying the natural beauty of Durango, which draws visitors year round for everything from world class skiing to championship fishing, along with hiking and biking trails.

There is something for everyone here but unfortunately nature isn’t always so accommodating.  When storms strike, residents and businesses alike need to know there is storm damage recovery Durango can rely on.

When heavy rain, hail, snow or high winds strike the name to rely on to get your residential or commercial property back on its feet again is SERVPRO.

For over 50 years we’ve been providing quality professional cleanup and recovery services after everything from routine storms to large scale disasters. We treat every job with the same care and will do everything we can to make it “Like it never even happened”.

The Professionals You Can Trust

A storm can hit your property suddenly, with devastating effects. At times like these you need to know there are professionals who can help you recover. That’s where SERVPRO makes a real difference, for both home and business owners.

We can handle any size job and put you on the road to recovery quickly and easily.

When it comes to providing the storm damage recovery Durango counts on, the key is always speed. SERVPRO is guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster because we understand how important it is to act fast.

That’s why we’ve got someone ready to take your call 24/7 and we’ll have someone on site within four hours of that call to begin assessing the damage and formulating a comprehensive plan to address it.

We’ve got top quality professional training and equipment including vacuums, pumps and air movers that we’ll use to rid your home or business of standing water, sanitize all surfaces and address any potential health hazards.

We will go out of our way to treat your property as if it were our own, including doing necessary repairs and rebuilding and even helping you file your insurance claim and we won’t sign off on any job until we know you’re satisfied.

Recovery Begins When You Reach Out

At SERVPRO, we never take our customers for granted because we’re a local business ourselves. We want to help you get back on your feet again because that will help the whole community to heal.

That recovery begins when you make your initial call. From beginning to end, we’ll treat you with the same care we’d expect for ourselves, so you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands.

You have enough to deal with when storms hit, you shouldn’t have to worry about going through clean up and recovery alone. SERVPRO provides storm damage recovery Durango can trust with the professional results you expect.

You may not be able to avoid the wind and rain but that doesn’t mean you can’t put your property back together again.

When you need help cleaning up after a storm, call SERVPRO and let us help you heal

Tips For Removing Fire Damage

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Removing Fire Damage - can be challenging, that's why you leave it to the experts

Fire can strike at a moment’s notice and cause a tremendous amount of damage. It can be devastating to deal with the aftermath but it’s important to know how to proceed if you want to handle restoration properly.

When it comes to removing fire damage Durango has been relying on one name for years. SERVPRO makes it our business to help you put the pieces together again and get back to enjoying life.

From local breweries to gourmet delights, there is plenty for foodies to love in Durango. At one time, Durango was known as the city with more restaurants per capita than San Francisco, which is no small feat.

Ska Brewing serves up local beers and the Durango Diner, located on historic Main Avenue, sells its Green Chili and Southwest Salsa in stores across the country. These are just a few of the many businesses that attract visitors and residents alike.

Unfortunately, even this beautiful part of the country isn’t immune to the devastation of fire, which is why SERVPRO stands ready with the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to tackle any kind of fire damage.

When Fire Strikes Call The Professionals

Of course, the first and best tip whenever fire strikes is to always leave the repair and restoration to the professionals. It may be tempting to try and clean up on your own but if it’s not done right you could end up causing even more damage. At times like these, your first call should be to SERVPRO, the trusted name for removing fire damage Durango relies on.

We’re ready to answer your call 24/7 and we’ll send a technician to your location within four hours of that call to assess the extent of damage and write up a thorough plan for addressing it. Then, we’ll pre-test any damaged surfaces to determine whether they can be restored and make sure to explain everything to you at each step along the way so you know exactly what to expect.

We’ll begin the restoration by employing our professional training and equipment to remove soot, smoke and standing water, completely dry out any water damaged surfaces and thoroughly clean and sanitize everything.

We also use industrial air scrubbers and foggers to make sure the air is clean and breathable and we will perform a complete mold remediation

At SERVPRO our goal is always to make your property look “Like it never even happened”, which is why we go the extra mile by replacing drywall, painting, installing new carpeting and even rebuilding damaged rooms.

We’ll never sign off on a job until we know you’re satisfied.  We’ll even work with you to you take a full inventory to help make the process of filing an insurance claim less stressful. 

Restoring Your Property and Your Peace of Mind

When it comes to removing fire damage Durango is in good hands with SERVPRO. We don’t stop at restoring your property; we also want to restore your peace of mind.

As part of the local community ourselves, nothing is more important than reaching out to our neighbors and that’s why we treat every property as if it was our own.

With over 1,700 franchises nationwide and a reputation for professional quality work, SERVPRO is the name to turn to for fire damage cleanup and restoration. We have the training and equipment to handle the job and a caring response when you need it most.

Don’t face fire damage alone, call the professionals at SERVPRO and let us get you on the road to healing

SERVPRO of Durango helping home owners to identify Mold

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

A mold problem can generally be seen or smelled. Mold might manifest itself as somewhat fuzzy, discolored, or slimy areas that expand in size. Mold produces musty scents, usually the first sign of a problem. Mold can grow in any area with enough moisture or a water problem. Looking for evidence of mold development, water stains, warping, or following your nose to the source of the odor is the best approach to identify mold. Look behind and beneath surfaces like carpets, wallpaper, cupboards, and walls to see what's going on. Some areas of the house are always susceptible to mold growth and should be cleaned regularly to keep mold at bay:

• Bathrooms; especially shower stalls, bathroom tiles, and shower curtains
• Window frames
• The seal on the refrigerator door
• Surfaces on and around air conditioners

If your property has mold, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Durango, you can reach us at 970-259-6184. We will restore the damage  and make it "Like it never even happened."

When Does my Fire Extinguisher Expire?

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers do not last forever. No matter what type of fire extinguisher you have, the manufacturing date should be featured somewhere on the canister. It might be printed on the extinguisher label or stamped into the cylinder body. If you don't readily see a date stamp, check under the plastic ring around the neck of the extinguisher or beneath the rubber boot at the base of the cylinder. If the paint has obscured the numbers, remove it with emery cloth so you can read the date.

Different types of fire extinguishers exist. For example, those using compressed gas can progressively lose contents as their seals deteriorate, while those using ammonium phosphate can freeze over time, rendering the device useless. By asking this question, you're being proactive and putting your safety first, and the answers could be the difference between successfully reacting to an emergency and getting caught empty-handed.

Difference between Mitigation and Restoration

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can be quite damaging to your business. It will be challenging to know where to begin with ruined furniture, mold growth, and standing water. How will you deal with the cleanup? If you're looking for a flood cleanup company in Durango, Co, you need to know two phrases. Flood mitigation and flood restoration are the two terms. The distinctions between the two shall be explained in the following paragraphs.

Flood Mitigation

If you can salvage anything during the mitigation phase, you should. Never take advice that suggests you should replace everything. Most flood cleanup companies would want to minimize the damage before completely restoring parts of your commercial property. Cleaning up the damage, removing the mold, and sifting through your and your colleagues' stuff may be less expensive.

Flood Restoration

Following mitigation, the next stage is to rehabilitate your business property. This is usually the following step for a restoration firm. There's a reasonable probability you'll have to restore some of the structure after a flood. Porous objects like paper, insulation, carpets, tiles, and other furnishings, for example, may require complete replacement. Mold can creep through holes in the material, doing thorough cleaning hard. When left untreated, mold spreads fast in the air. Professionals in the field will make sure that no remnants of the water damage remain.

When it comes down to it, a flood cleanup company will do all possible to return your business to its pre-flood condition. But it doesn't have to be a case of restoration or replacement. In many circumstances, you'll have to do a combination of the two. True, you can't expect to recover everything ruined by a flood, but some items can be salvaged and restored. SERVPRO of Durango is ready to assist you with any emergency 24/7. Give us a call today at 970-259-6184, and we are going to make it "Like it never even happened."

Fighting Residential Fire Damage in Durango

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Damage can be a disaster but we can help get things back together

Nothing is quite as devastating as the aftermath of a fire. Seeing your home destroyed by smoke, soot and water can leave you reeling and unsure of where to turn for help.

When it comes to repairing residential fire damage Durango has been relying on the professionals of SERVPRO to provide support in their time of need. Residents here know that the key to repairing fire damage is acting quickly and using the right approach and nobody does that better than SERVPRO.

There’s no wonder why Durango is the most populous municipality in La Plata County. There is so much that this community has to offer, from its breathtaking natural beauty to its rich historic heritage.

It’s even attracted the attention of Hollywood, serving as the setting for more than 30 films over the years, including the iconic scene when Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid plunged into the waters of the Animas River off of nearby Baker’s Bridge.

With all of that natural beauty surrounding us, it’s hard to imagine the devastation of fire intruding but unfortunately it can sometimes happen. Those are the times when SERVPRO can make all the difference by responding faster to any disaster and helping to make you whole again.

Know What To Expect When Fire Strikes

Fire damage can take many forms and it’s important to understand them all so that you can be sure you’re taking the right approach to restoration.

The most obvious effect is from flames, which can reduce wood and other materials to cinders and weaken structural supports. Smoke permeates surfaces and leaves behind noxious odors.

As it sinks deeper under the surface it will require industrial strength cleaning materials and techniques to be completely removed. Soot can cover every exposed surface and even seep into the tiniest of cracks and crevices.

Even worse, it can also become airborne, making it a serious health concern if it’s inhaled.  

While water is essential to help put the fire out, it can cause its own damage, from weakening already damaged structures to producing potentially hazardous mold infestation.

A thorough, professional restoration will address all of these potential sources of damage so that your property can be completely restored to its previous state.

Trust the Professionals of SERVPRO

When it comes to handling residential fire damage Durango has been relying on SERVPRO for years and with good reason. Not only do we have the training and equipment to handle any size job properly, but we’re also members of the community, so we go the extra mile to treat your property as if it were our own. That’s an approach you just can’t get anywhere else and it’s what makes us the name you can trust.

Our unique SERVPRO touch begins with your initial call. We have someone ready to answer 24/7 so that we can begin the restoration process as quickly as possible.

We’ll have someone at your location within four hours of that call to assess the damage and draw up a comprehensive plan of action and we’ll go over that plan with you, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect.

Next we’ll thoroughly pre-test all surfaces and items so we can determine what can be restored and what is damaged beyond repair.

We’ll employ the latest techniques using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your restoration job is done right.

Our technicians undergo extensive training and receive IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration) Certification so you know they’re prepared to handle any job. We make the extra effort to ensure that our technicians are properly trained so that you can rest easy knowing you’re getting the best possible service.

Using specialized equipment including industrial vacuums outfitted with HEPA filters, we can properly address any kind of damage.

We’ll clean away built up soot, remove hazardous odors from all sorts of surfaces, get rid of standing water, thoroughly dry all surfaces and perform a complete mold remediation.

We’ll even employ specialized techniques to treat everything from carpets, drapes and wallpaper to electronics, clothing and works of art. If there is anything that we deem unsalvageable we’ll put it aside for you to make a final decision.

We’ll never throw anything out without your permission. Once the work is done we’ll perform a complete walkthrough of the property with you to make sure you’re completely satisfied.

We understand how upsetting this process is for you and how important it is to get your life back to normal, which is why we won’t sign off on any job until we know you’re pleased with the results.

We’ll even help you to file an insurance claim so that you can get all the compensation you deserve.

We’re In This Together

As important as it is to treat each job professionally, we never want to lose sight of the human aspect of our job. As a local franchise, we are part of this community too and we understand the devastating effect that fires can have on the residents of Durango.

We would want our own property treated with care and we’ll do no less for our customers. Acting quickly and taking the proper steps to repair the damage is all part of the healing process and that’s what SERVPRO is all about.

When it comes to dealing with residential fire damage Durango and its residents are in good hands with SERVPRO.

We use professional grade equipment and employ specially trained technicians to help make your property look “like it never even happened”, so that you and your family can stop hurting and begin to heal. 

At SERVPRO we are ready to respond faster to any disaster and we’re prepared to handle any job, large or small. When fire strikes, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

Call on the one company with a national reputation and a local touch. SERVPRO is ready to respond and help you put the pieces of your life back together again. 

In Durango, we are ready to help your business!

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

You never know when water damage will strike your company; be prepared with SERVPRO!

Commercial and Residential properties, at any time, can be affected by water damage. However, some steps can be taken as preventative maintenance to reduce the chances of water loss. Therefore, it is always better to have a strategy in place before dealing with the damage.

You can stay a step ahead of unexpected events by having a plan of action before you need it with SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan. 

Water damage, especially for businesses, maybe disastrous if not managed properly. SERVPRO of Durango recognizes the need to act promptly and efficiently to help a company's overall bottom line. When it comes to commercial losses, our top priority is to minimize company disruption.

Know that SERVPRO of Durango specializes in creating the proper mitigation plan for your business to help your production get right back on track.

Our highly trained technicians at SERVPRO of Durango are ready to assist you 24/7. Call us today at 970-259-6184

Handling Commercial Fire Damage In Durango With Care

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

How you handle fire damage is critical

When fire strikes it can have a devastating effect, especially when your business or commercial property is involved. It can cost a great deal both financially and emotionally and leave you unsure of where to begin picking up the pieces.

When it comes to handling commercial fire damage Durango needs a name they can trust to handle all of their cleanup and restoration needs. For more than 50 years, SERVPRO has been that name and we take pride in reaching out to help our local community.

There is so much to draw people to this area, including its many natural wonders, which can be enjoyed year round. From the breathtaking trails of Purgatory Ski Resort to gold medal fishing in the Animas River, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

History is also a big part of Durango’s appeal, including the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway, the many nearby archeological sites and of course, Main Avenue, which is a Nationally Registered Historic District.

It’s easy to see the appeal here but difficult to imagine how fire could mar the beautiful landscape. Unfortunately, it can sometimes rear its ugly head and when it does it leaves behind a trail of charred surfaces, smoke and soot, and even water damage from the firefighting efforts themselves.

As part of the Durango community, we at SERVPRO are well aware of just how costly fire damage can be to a commercial property and we understand the importance of acting quickly to get you back on your feet again. That’s why we’re always ready to respond faster to any disaster and provide the quality restoration service you need.

Fighting All Types of Fire Damage

Fire damage is certainly devastating and it can be more far reaching than you realize. There are many ways that fire can damage a property, from the burning of flames to the lingering effects of smoke and soot.

As if all of that wasn’t enough, the water used in firefighting efforts can add to the damage by soaking surfaces, weakening structures and leading to mold infestation. 

The heat from flames can reduce many surfaces to cinders while smoke clings to just about everything and can produce noxious odors.

Since smoke and soot can find their way into even the smallest of openings, removing any trace requires industrial strength cleaners and specialized techniques.

The water used by firefighters can damage surfaces and further weaken support structures that have already been damaged by flames, making cleanup even more dangerous.

At the same time, standing water can lead to potentially hazardous mold infestation, so it needs to be addressed as quickly as possible.

When they’re facing this kind of commercial fire damage Durango business owners can be left feeling helpless, but the trained professionals of SERVPRO are ready to handle it.

Treating Your Business With Care

You can’t afford to trust your business to just any restoration company. You need to know that you’re getting the best possible service from a company that understands your needs and treats you with care. 

SERVPRO has a long standing reputation for providing professional restoration service, with over 1,700 franchises serving communities across the country.

As members of the Durango community ourselves, we’ve also got a stake in ensuring that every business here is treated with care. We’d want no less for ourselves and our customers deserve the same.

That personal touch begins when you place your initial call. We have someone ready to answer immediately, 24 hours a day because we know how important it is to act quickly when disaster strikes.

With your details in hand, we’ll have a technician at your business within four hours to perform a thorough walkthrough and put together a comprehensive plan designed to make it “Like it never even happened”.

We’ll board up windows and cover damaged roofs with tarp in order to mitigate any continuing damage and then assess the existing damage. Next, we’ll point out any items that we feel cannot be salvaged so that you can make the final determination about their disposal and file your insurance claim.

Once these initial steps are taken, we’ll then address any standing water or other hazardous debris, making sure it is removed and disposed of safely. 

Using our state-of-the-art equipment and professional training we’ll take the necessary steps to ensure that all surfaces are thoroughly dried, cleaned and deodorized.

After all standing water is removed we’ll perform a full mold remediation, paying particular attention to the HVAC system, to prevent the spread of potentially hazardous mold throughout your property.

We understand how important your business is to you, which is why we go the extra mile by replacing drywall, removing and replacing carpeting and carpet pads and replacing damaged flooring.  We’ll also make recommendations for any services that are beyond our scope, such as roof repair or restoration of business documents.

Commercial Fire Cleanup Durango Can Count On

When it comes to handling commercial fire damage Durango needs a name it can trust. That’s why the technicians of SERVPRO undergo continual training to remain up to date on all of the standards for best practices in fire restoration, water restoration, mold remediation and other techniques. They also receive regular certification from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC).

Every moment that your business remains closed can be costly but with SERVPRO on your side you can rest easy knowing your business is being treated right by highly trained professionals who are also your neighbors.

We’ll respond faster to any disaster; provide the professional results you expect and treat your business with the care it deserves because helping this community means everything to us.

Durango is a great place to do business and the businesses here deserve only the best. When disaster strikes your commercial property, trust the professionals of SERVPRO to get your doors open again as fast as possible. We’ll be there for you when you need us most.

Commercial Water Damage Services in Durango

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

Keep a look out for water damage

A broken appliance, burst pipe or flooding after a storm can all lead to severe damage for your business or other commercial property. There’s no denying the destructive power of water and when it hampers your ability to do business, it can end up being very costly.

That’s why when it comes to handling commercial water damage Durango needs a name it can trust to get the job done right.

For more than 50 years, the first name in commercial water damage restoration in the Durango area has been SERVPRO. We combine the personal touch of a local franchise with the trusted backing of a national company that has the specific training necessary to do the job right.

Durango is such a beautiful place, combining a rich history with a stunning natural backdrop, so it’s no surprise that we have so many visitors every year. What began as a mining town has grown into a mecca for gourmet dining, world class skiing and fishing and plenty of unique shopping.

The railroad has always been at the heart of this community and it still is, with the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway providing a one of a kind tourist attraction.

There is plenty to peak your attention in both winter and summer, which makes this a perfect area for businesses, but it isn’t without potential hazards. At SERVPRO we understand the potential threat of water damage because we’re a local business ourselves.

Which is why we stand ready to respond 24/7 to handle any kind of water damage before it can sink your business.

Restoration Service Designed Specifically For Commercial Buildings

Any water damage can be devastating, but it can be particularly harmful when it strikes a large commercial property. While water presents the same general threat to businesses that it does to homes, commercial buildings tend to be much bigger and more complex and that necessitates a different approach.

To properly handle commercial water damage Durango needs a company it can rely on

At SERVPRO, we understand that time is money when it comes to your business, which is why we’re prepared to respond faster to any disaster. We also have the expert training and heavy duty equipment necessary to tackle any job, big or small. 

A Comprehensive Process You Can Trust

With years of experience behind us, SERVPRO has developed a unique approach that is designed to treat every emergency quickly and thoroughly and guarantees that your property will look “Like it never even happened”.  To reach that end, we employ a carefully structured process for handling each case of commercial water damage:

1. Initial Contact – You can’t afford to be out of business, so our operators are ready to respond 24/7 and prepared to ask all of the right questions to help determine exactly what we need to do and get the cleanup and restoration started right away.
   
2. Inspection and Water Damage Assessment – Within four hours of your call we’ll have a technician onsite to perform a thorough inspection of your property and determine the full extent of the damage. We’ll start by identifying the source of the problem and stopping it in its tracks and then we’ll move any furniture or other items to prevent further damage including staining and rust.
   
3. Removal/Extraction – Once the damaged area has been cleared, we can then begin removing all standing water using submersible pumps and industrial grade wet/dry vacuums. Moisture detectors, hygrometers and other equipment can be used to measure moisture levels on surfaces and in the air. We’ll even use infrared cameras to detect any “hidden” water behind walls or in ceilings so that every bit of moisture can be removed.
   
4. Drying/Dehumidification – With the water removed we can then begin the process of thoroughly drying the entire area. Using industrial grade air movers and dehumidifiers we can ensure that all moisture is completely removed from the affected area in order to avoid warping of floors, walls and furniture. We’ll carefully monitor our progress with moisture meters until we’re satisfied that the humidity and moisture levels have returned to a safe level.
   
5. Cleaning/Sanitizing – Removing standing water and drying is only part of the restoration process. Unfortunately, water can often leave behind a dirty mess, so we’ll clean the entire area paying particular attention to any furniture, upholstery, clothing or restorable belongings that may have been damaged. At the same time we’ll use air scrubbers and fogging equipment to help remove any odors and apply antimicrobial, antibacterial and disinfectant treatments to sanitize all surfaces. If there are any items that you or your insurance adjusters deem to be unsalvageable, we’ll help you to get rid of them safely.
   
6. Restoration – Once everything is clean and dried, there may be some repair and reconstruction necessary to complete the restoration. This may include drywall removal and installation, hardwood or tile floor repair, painting and carpet replacement.

Making Sure You’re Open For Business

We’re part of this community too, so we understand how costly it can be when water damage affects your business. At SERVPRO we’re all about helping the community because what’s good for one of us is good for us all. So we’ll do everything we can to ensure that you’re open for business as quickly as possible. 

That’s why our technicians undergo continuous training and certification in specialized areas of commercial restoration including water damage restoration, applied structural drying, odor control and upholstery and fabric cleaning, so we’re up-to-date on the latest techniques and ready to handle any challenge that comes our way.

When it comes to handling commercial water damage Durango can’t afford to settle for less than the best. SERVPRO has a record of stepping up and pitching in when businesses need us most. With our professional training and equipment we’ve got the resources to tackle any job, large or small, and with our personal approach you can rely on us to get you back in business again.

Types of storm damage in Durango, Co

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

Storm Damage

Aside from the daily damage your roof endures, extreme weather changes like storms can negatively affect its structure, compromising your home's safety. 

There are several types of storm damage, including wind, flooding, or even fire. Flooding can cause extensive amounts of damage to your home, and lightning can create fires, while high winds can cause many issues to your home structure.

Knowing the types of damage can help you deal with them effectively.

Hail

Round dings in metal are clear signs of hail damage. However, determining whether your roof has suffered damage from a hail storm could be a bit more challenging. For example, after hail hits the roof, it knocks off the protective granules where the hail has hit, and these areas of damage are the sources of leaks in the roof in the future if it is not fixed within a few years.

Wind

The damage which results from extremely high winds is relatively easy to see most of the time. Nowadays, roof shingles are designed better than their predecessors regarding their resistance to wind and ever-increasing knowledge and standards. Unfortunately, there are many times little can be done to prevent damage by the wind in very extreme conditions. For example, wind-damaged roofs usually appear to be affected only in certain spots. The room's edges or perimeter are affected by high winds easily since the edge of a roof is quite prone to lifting.

 Snow

Snow causes most of its damage from its weight, which immensely increases when ice, rain, and sleet are added to it. On an average-sized roof, two feet of snow can weigh the equivalent of thirty-eight thousand pounds or nineteen tons. The obvious sign many times that a roof is about to fail is sagging.

Ice

The functionality of many gutter and roof systems is affected by the temperatures that fluctuate, making the snow melt then refreeze on the edge of the roof. This makes a dam that the water cannot pass through, meaning that as more snow melts off the roof and trickles down, it gets blocked by an ice dam and makes a puddle. Since roofs were not made to handle standing water, significantly as the waterline and growing puddle move up the roof, the water can seep through tiny openings in the roof into your home or attic.

Rain and Flood Damage

Water running out of a typical water drainage basin due to storm overflow can wreak havoc on your property. Streams, creeks, rivers or lakes that overflow, flash floods, a storm surge, or a tsunami are all examples of possible flood damage.

Flooding can cause damage to your property, including your foundation and drywall damage. The drywall will need to be removed and replaced most of the time. The flooding can also cause mold to grow on the property due to standing or hidden water, such as inside the walls. This should be taken care of as soon as possible, as mold can cause health effects to you and your family.

Call an Expert

Contact a professional storm damage restoration company at the first sign of damage. We use specialized equipment and technology to tackle any storm damage to your property. We will be able to restore your property to normal.

Contact SERVPRO of Durango to restore your commercial or residential storm damage, and make it "Like it never even happened."

Common Causes of Fires in your Cortez Home

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

House on fire

An accidental fire can ignite frightening unpredictability, spread uncontrollably in seconds, and decimate a home within minutes. House fires endanger everyone in the home, and even small fires that are put out quickly often result in thousands of dollars of damage. In all the leading causes of house fires in the U.S., property owners, manufacturers, and other parties can be liable if someone is injured or killed in a house fire. 

List of the most common causes of house fires in the Durango

Heating Equipment

Space heaters can cause fires when placed too close to other items. Anything that is combustible or can catch fire should not be anywhere near a space heater. Space heaters should not be left unattended. Always follow the instructions on any heating device you use, and inspect it regularly to ensure it is in good condition.

Cooking

Cooking fires are among the most common house fires, causing around 49 percent of all residential fires.

Tools and food can catch on fire and spread quickly. If someone is not in the kitchen to extinguish the fire, it spreads rapidly through the house. Portable cooking appliances can also source fires, such as toasters and electric grills. Never leave these portable appliances unsupervised, and make sure they are cool to the touch before storing them away. Every kitchen should have a fire extinguisher that is rated for kitchen fires.  

Smoking Materials

Smoking causes thousands of houses fires each year. House fires can start from a lit cigarette or a lighter. Accidentally fires from cigarette butts dropped on carpeting, furniture, or other flammable materials can quickly spread through the entire house. Smoking outside of the home is the most effective way to reduce the risk of house fires caused by smoking materials.

Christmas Tree Fires

Christmas tree fires are another leading cause of house fires. Christmas tree fires also caused about $14.8 million in property damage each year. Never leave Christmas tree lights plugged in when you are not at home or sleeping, no matter if the tree is natural or artificial. Also, the lights left turned on cause the tree to overheat and catch fire.

Appliances

Leaving appliances unattended and misusing appliances are also common causes of home appliance fires. Appliances result in thousands of houses fires each year. Fires started by an appliance can quickly spread to other rooms in the house. Defective appliances can cause a spark, which ignites a fire.

Candles

Candles should never be left unattended. Keep matches and lighters locked in a secure place if you have kids. You can reduce the risk of fires caused by candles by trimming the wicks each time you use the candle. Electric and battery-operated candles can also help reduce the risk of house fires caused by candles.

In the unfortunate event that a Residential building in the Durango area does catch fire, rest assured that SERVPRO of Durango is prepared to help clean up any fire damage the building/area has sustained. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-259-6184

What to Do After Fire in your Silverton House

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

kitchen after a fire

In 2020, fire departments in the United States responded to a fire every 23 seconds on average. Death in a fire occurs every two hours and 31 minutes. Even home fires that don’t result in death can cause injuries and leave thousands of dollars of damage behind.

SERVPRO of Durango understands that lives, cherished belongings, and memories are beyond priceless. It is natural to clean your property and get life back to normal. Quick action can be great, but improper or delayed action can risk restoration and cause even more damage.

Remember, SERVPRO of Durango is ready to assist you after a fire with fire damage restoration and help you get back to normal. Our number one priority is getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-259-6184

If you experience fire or smoke damage in your home, here are some steps you can follow until the SERVPRO team arrives.

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty the freezer and refrigerator, and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim, and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Remove pets to a clean environment.
• Wash houseplants thoroughly.
• Change the HVAC filter but leave the system off until a trained professional check the system.

The best restoration company for Storm Damage in Hesperus

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Advanced equipment

Hesperus in Southwest Colorado, just twenty minutes from Durango, is a winter wonderland. Skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports can all be experienced here. There are many quaint shops to enjoy off the slopes and fine dining in many local restaurants.

The winter ice and snow may be pretty, but they can also be dangerous.

Winter storms can bring a great deal of damage, from caved-in roofs to downed power lines to flooded basements. Residents and business owners need to know where to turn for help when storm damage occurs. 

For 20 years, SERVPRO has provided professional storm damage restoration services that Avon residents can trust.

Helping You Recover From Storms

No matter how much you prepare in advance, you can’t always avoid storm damage. But, after a particularly severe storm, that damage can be devastating to a home or business.

Even though you may feel that you can handle cleanup and restoration by yourself, the fact is that if it’s not done correctly, it can be dangerous and costly. That’s why it always makes better sense to rely on professionals.

At SERVPRO, we have both the training and specialized equipment to handle any storm damage restoration. We’re also members of the local community ourselves, so we understand the kind of hazards that Hesperus and Durangos’s winter weather can present.

That’s why so many Durango and Aztec residents turn to us to treat their property with care so that they can breathe easier.

We have someone ready to take your call 24/7, and we’ll have a technician on-site within four hours of that call to begin a thorough, careful assessment of all damage and formulate a detailed plan to address it. We’ll inspect everything from the roof to the basement for any sign of damage, and we’ll determine precisely what needs to be done to ensure that your property is fully restored to its previous condition.

Some of the particular issues we look for include ice dams on roofs and snow buildup around foundations, both of which can lead to water damage on the interior of a home or commercial property if they aren’t removed quickly. If water builds up from this kind of winter storm damage, it can compromise support structures and rot flooring, all of which can make a property unsafe. Power outages caused by storms can present a fire hazard if they lead to damaged wires or heating systems.

We understand the potential dangers that storms present, which is why SERVPRO is ready to step in as quickly as possible. Our primary focus is always on helping our customers heal, and cleaning up storm damage thoroughly and rapidly is a big part of that healing process. It’s the way we’d want our property treated so that we won’t give you anything less, and we won’t sign off on a job until we know you’re delighted.

The Storm Restoration Experts

SERVPRO technicians are uniquely qualified to help with restoration after any size storm, with ongoing training from The Institute for Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). In addition, we have certification in several areas, including Water Damage Restoration, Applied Structural Drying, Fire and Smoke Restoration, and Commercial Drying, so you can rest assured that we are prepared to handle any situation.

We have industrial-grade equipment, including powerful pumps and vacuums to remove excess water, air movers, and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry all surfaces and Ultra Low Volume (ULV) and Thermal foggers to remove noxious odors. All of our vacuums are outfitted with HEPA filters to ensure that any irritants or toxic chemicals are filtered out.

It’s essential to do this quickly as mold can begin to grow and spread within 24-48 hours after flooding occurs. The sooner you address the problem correctly, the better your chances of avoiding further complications and keeping your property safe and healthy.

We know how stressful it can be to clean up after a storm, which is why we’ll do everything we can to make the process easier on you. That can include everything from painting and replacing flooring to completely rebuilding rooms if we feel it’s necessary. We will even help you to take a complete inventory to help expedite filing your insurance claim so that you can get the compensation you deserve.

Even when disaster strikes, SERVPRO is ready to respond with our Disaster Recovery Team. These specialists are trained to handle any size restoration job and have completed recovery after wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes, and major floods. Our Commercial Large Loss Division works with all types of businesses to ensure quick cleanup and restoration so that you can get back up and running again as soon as possible.

Avon winters can be beautiful, but when winter weather goes wrong, and storms hit, you don’t have to go it alone. Just call the restoration experts at SERVPRO and trust us to start putting things back together again. We make it our business to respond faster to any size disaster so you can get the help you need when you need it most.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

• AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST -Health and safety Technician
• OCT -Odor Control Technician
• RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

• ASBO
• EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Keep your Durango Commercial Building Free from Mold

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Mold in the wall

Mold can be very challenging to deal with. It can sometimes be challenging to spot, they pollute the air, and they can even threaten the structural integrity of your establishment. Once it starts, it can spread very quickly. Not only can it cause damage, but it can affect people’s health.

Mold is primarily caused by uncontrolled moisture that can grow on various surfaces, cloth, carpets, drywall, and wood. With a large commercial building keeping everyone cool or warm, condensation can form and provide the mold the moisture it needs to spread.
Regular cleanings and maintenance inspections will help keep mold from taking over the building areas that are not often used.

Service your HVAC unit

It’s essential to ensure that the HVAC system remains clean and good condition. If your filters are clogged up with mold spores, then every time you turn the AC on, you’ll be blowing them around the building. The vents, ducts, and the rest all need to be maintained.
When the air is not moving through the vents, dust and mold can sit there, so the room fills with it all when you turn it back on. Any amount of hair, dust, dirt, animal hair and waste, and mold can be in the vents.

Minimize moisture

Mold thrives on moisture. The more excess dampness you have around your commercial building, the more chances you have of ending up with a mold problem. Condensation can form during the hot months, during the cold months, at any time, and people can cause condensation.
A dehumidifier will help draw moisture out of the air. It can make a big difference in a significantly populated building, and turning off the heat or air conditioning is not an option.
Please put them in areas when moisture is prevalent. Basements, upper floors, kitchens or cafeterias, shower rooms, laundry rooms, and anywhere that has excessive moisture. Remember to check windows and doors for condensation build-up too. If you see a lot of humidity here, this could signify that you need new windows.

Make Repairs fast

Fixing minor problems will help them from becoming big problems. Leaks in the roof or foundation, cracks in the walls, gaps around windows, taps, pipes that drip or leak, and faulty thermostats. Unfortunately, the longer you leave problems unattended, the worse they can become.
These can all allow heat and cold air in or out, making it harder to control the humidity inside the building. Always try to catch water damage and leaks before the added moisture can cause long-term damage.

Stay vigilant

Mold isn’t always noticeable straight away. It’s a great idea to have your maintenance team take care of regular checks and repairs but hiring a professional to inspect the building can help. They can spot areas that may be developing mold that you are not aware of.
Dark spots, fuzzy patches, musty smells can all appear anywhere, like carpets, walls, ceilings, floors, under sinks, behind walls in shower rooms, laundry rooms, bathrooms, and kitchen areas. They are also great at finding areas of potential mold too, so you can stop it before it gets a chance to start.

Seek professional support

Finally, remember that every commercial building often has its unique issues and requirements to consider.
If you find mold, call a professional team to take care of it right away. You don’t want to try and clean it by yourself.

Our SERVPRO team are Professionals who have the right tools, equipment, and products to take care of it. We specialize in mold removal from residential and commercial buildings and can assist with ridding your property of any mold and residual spores.

You can trust SERVPRO of Durango to take care of any mold problems you encounter in your commercial building. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-259-6184

Preventing Mold from Coming Back to your Hermosa Business

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Mold in the wall

Once mold remediation has taken place, you may feel relieved, but it’s essential to learn from the mold outbreak. It would help if you took the necessary measures to prevent the mold from returning.

Make sure you keep mold out of your building by taking the proper steps. Use the following mold prevention tips to guide how to stop mold from coming back.

Eliminate Excess Moisture

Moisture is essential for mold to grow, so if you can eliminate any excess water from your property, you can significantly reduce the potential for mold growth. 

Immediately Dry Wet Areas

Managing moisture can help you prevent mold growth easily. If we deprive molds of their feeding material (steam), they cannot grow. Instead, you need to dry the wet areas within 24-48 hours. It will help you ensure that molds will not come back again.

Air Circulation and Ventilation

Keeping bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and basements well ventilated would help prevent mold buildup. As simple as opening windows and doors during dry weather would let fresh air into spaces and maintain air circulation.

Use Mold-Resistant Products in Homes

Whether old or new, it is always better to equip your home with mold-resistant products such as mold-resistant drywall, sheetrock, etc. Also, use mold inhibitors for paints. It is recommended to use mold-resistant walls, especially for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, etc.

Throw Out Moldy Objects

Getting rid of moldy items would save you from continually worrying about new mold growing on them. It would also help prevent decay from further spreading to other objects. For example, if a part of your drywall has mold, cut it out and replace it.

Regularly Conduct Maintenance and Repairs

Routinely inspect your business for leaks, damps, flooding, or clogged gutters, especially after a storm or heavy rain. During dry weather, check for cracks or signs of foundation shifting. After finding such problems, have them repaired as soon as possible because where water damage occurs, mold growth often would quickly follow.

Our trained technicians would know where and what to look for to treat the issue properly. Using specialized products and equipment, professionals could also prevent further mold buildups.

Remember, SERVPRO of Durango is ready to assist you with Mold restoration and help you get back to normal. Our number one priority is getting your home or business back to preloss condition as quickly as possible. We are a 24/7 emergency response. Call us today at 970-259-6184

The First Name In Water Damage Repair For Durango, Co

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO vans in Durango

If you've ever had your basement fill during a storm or experienced the sudden gushing of a burst pipe, you know precisely how dangerous water can be. SERVPRO understands that power too, which is why we are the name that Durango has come to trust for their water damage repair needs. It can be an overwhelming feeling as the water rises, but we're ready to respond faster to any disaster and help get you back on your feet again.

There is so much to love about Durango, from the breathtaking mountain landscape to the world-class ski trails, as well as the shopping and dining opportunities downtown. With all of that around you, it's hard to imagine storms, flooding, and other water-related trouble happening, but unfortunately, it's a fact of life even here. SERVPRO is part of the local community, and we understand how devastating water-related emergencies can be.

A Patented Process for Repairing Water Damage

With a deep understanding of what it takes to repair water damage thoroughly, SERVPRO approaches each job with the same professional process that sees you through to restoration. It all begins with our operators, who are ready to take your call 24/7 and ensure that a technician is on-site within four hours of that call to perform a thorough assessment and take any necessary steps to address the source of water.

Next, we'll use submersible pumps and industrial-grade wet/dry vacuums to remove any standing water, along with moisture detectors and hygrometers to detect any moisture in the air. In addition, industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers help to ensure that all moisture is completely removed, and once everything is thoroughly dried, we'll clean all surfaces, including furniture, upholstery, clothing, or any other restorable items, to help make you whole again. This step is essential as some water can contain contaminants that may present a severe health hazard.

We'll also inspect carefully for any signs of mold growth, as this too can be a health hazard. If we find any mold, we'll perform complete remediation to ensure that it is completely removed and all surfaces are thoroughly sanitized. This extra step will help you breathe easier knowing that your property is safe and healthy.

Of course, restoration is not complete until your property is fully returned to its previous state. To reach this goal, we'll take any necessary steps to rebuild, including drywall removal and installation, hardwood or tile floor repair, painting or carpet repair, and installation. We'll even help you prepare a complete inventory to help expedite filing your insurance claim. It's all about ensuring that our customers have everything they need when they need it most.

Turn To The Best When Water Damage Strikes

At SERVPRO, we understand how devastating water damage can be and how overwhelmed you may feel. That's why we always take a "restore first" approach. As part of the Durango community ourselves, we know that helping our neighbors is the most important thing because it makes us all stronger. So we will go out of our way to help you feel whole again. 

That's also why we do everything we can to help you file your insurance claim and get the compensation you deserve. It can be an exhausting and emotional experience, and you shouldn't have to face it alone. With the professionals of SERVPRO on your side, you won't have to because we'll be with you every step of the way. We'll take on any job, large or small, and we won't give up until we've ensured that your property is completely restored.

When water damage strikes, you don't have to be in over your head. Call SERVPRO and rest easy knowing you've got the number one name in water damage repair and restoration to rely on. With years of experience and proven techniques, we're the best resource in Durango to address all of your water damage needs. We've handled emergencies for many homes and businesses in the area, and we're ready to do the same for you. So start drying out with professional help from SERVPRO. 

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

• AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST -Health and safety Technician
• OCT -Odor Control Technician
• RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

• ASBO
• EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

• Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

The Company You Can Rely On For Fire Damage Restoration in Durango

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

When fire strikes, it can be sudden and devastating to your home or business. The aftermath of a fire can be emotional and overwhelming, which is why you need a company you can rely on to help restore your property to its former condition. The first name most people think about for fire damage restoration here in Durango is SERVPRO.

With so much to draw people to the Durango area, it’s no wonder that it is such a bustling community. From quaint shops to fine dining and the breathtaking natural beauty all around us, there is something here for everyone. As welcoming as Durango is, it isn’t immune to the threat of fire, and when a fire strikes, it’s important to begin the restoration process as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO Responds Faster To Handle Fire Damage

At SERVPRO we’re guaranteed to respond faster to any disaster because we understand the need to begin restoration right away. That’s why we have someone ready to take your call 24/7 and will have a technician on-site within four hours of that call to perform a thorough assessment of the damage.

Once we have determined the exact extent of damage we can work up a plan to address it. We’ll employ the latest techniques as well as our expert training and use high-tech equipment designed specifically to treat fire damage.

From specialized Ultra Low Volume (ULV) and Thermal foggers to remove all hazardous odors, to industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove any signs of moisture, we’ll take every step necessary to restore your property to its previous condition.

We’ll even help to expedite the process of filing an insurance claim by providing a thorough inventory of all damaged surfaces and belongings so you can be sure to get the compensation you deserve. Finally, we’ll perform any steps necessary to restore your property, including removing and replacing drywall and flooring, to painting or even rebuilding entire rooms.

Providing The Support You Need When You Need It Most

As damage restoration specialists, we understand what it takes to restore your property after a fire, but we also recognize the personal toll it can take. That’s why we’ll be with you every step of the way to help guide you through the process and make it as easy on you as possible.

We’re members of the local community ourselves, so being there for our neighbors is important to us. Unfortunately, fires are not an uncommon occurrence here in Durango and while we can’t prevent them, we can promise that we’ll do everything we can to help make you whole again when a fire strikes. It’s what we’d want for our own property and we won’t do any less for our customers.

With our expert training and state-of-the-art equipment, we’re equipped to handle even the worst fire-related damage and we’ll go out of our way to make it “Like it never even happened”. That’s the pledge to service that customers have come to expect from SERVPRO and we’re committed to providing that kind of professional approach every time it’s needed. 

When a fire leaves you reeling, you can breathe easier knowing that the professionals of SERVPRO are ready to step in and help put the pieces back together. We’re here to provide the support you need when you need it most so you don’t have to go it alone. That’s the SERVPRO difference and what makes us the name you can rely on.

Authored by: Chafika and James Landers

Certifications

• AMRT -Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD  -Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT -Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP -Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT -Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST -Health and safety Technician
• OCT -Odor Control Technician
• RRRP -Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC -Certified Firm

Affiliations

• ASBO
• EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm
• Institute of Inspection, Cleaning & Restoration Certification

Awards

• Emergency Ready Plan Preparedness

Causes of a basement flooding in your Cortez Home

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

flooded basement

If you have a frequently flooding basement, it's not just water damage you need to worry about—basement flooding can cause mold, mildew, and other health hazards. Identifying the causes of flooding can help you prevent water damage, save your property, eliminate the risk, and keep your basement dry.

Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump is installed in a basement or crawlspace in a sump pit to keep the area dry and prevent floods under the building. 

A torrential downpour or a power outage can lead to a sump pump failure and cause groundwater to flood the basement through the sump pit. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure your sump pump maintenance regularly.

Another explanation is tree roots breaking into your mainline (sewer line) and causing a backup. In this case, you might need to have your sewer line jetted. This highly effective method thoroughly cleans your sewer line and keeps roots growing back for up to 7 years. Here's everything you need to know about hydro jetting.

Location of Your Home

If your yard or the land around your home does not slope away from your home, you may be more likely to have a flooded basement. Your home benefits from being in an area where no excess water from storms, melting snow, or other natural weather patterns will cause water damage. If you notice any depressions around your property where water may pool, fill them in with clay-type soil. To level the lower areas around your home and may help direct water away from your home.

Poor Weatherproofing

During a home's construction, walls, floors, and foundations must be waterproofed with a sealant to avoid water leakage and flooding. But over time, sealants deteriorate, and leaks can sneak through the cracks. If your basement floods during most rainstorms, this might be a good time for a waterproofing upgrade.

Water Pooling

Water pooling around the foundation can cause significant damage. Gravity will pull water down, and it will find a way into your basement. A lack of adequate grading, or clogged gutters and downspouts, can lead to water running down the walls of your home and property to gather at your foundation.

Improper Drainage System

The drain tile is a draining pipe used for underground water collection. It's built under the basement floor level around the building to ensure water moves away and doesn't seep into your home.

If weeping tile fails or degrades over time, the basement may experience flooding, especially without proper waterproofing.

When your basement floods or you need help with any water damage emergency, SERVPRO of Durango has a team of restoration technicians on call 24/7. Call us today at 970-259-6184. We'll make it look "Like it never even happened."

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR BASEMENT FLOODS

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

a guy standing in a Flooded Basement

Basements are vulnerable to flooding because they're built partially, if not entirely below ground. For this reason, basement floods can occur outside of rainy seasons and rapid snowmelts at any time of year, even when the weather conditions are dry.  Here are some tips on how to proceed.

• Shut off any power around the area, including electricity and gas. Never enter a flooded area while the power is on. Call an electrician before entering the room if you aren't sure how to shut these areas off. 
• Try to determine the source of the water. For example, if it is a burst pipe, make sure the water main is off. It can also be excessive rainfall since those are two top reasons your basement may flood. 
• Call your home insurance company and report the flood if you have flood insurance. Confirm your coverage limits, deductible amount, and claim procedures. 
• If your basement has a floor drain, check that it didn't become clogged during the flood. Keeping it open and functioning will help drain the water. 
• Find a way to remove or pump water out of the basement before the water comes up through the ground and enters the home, causing flooding in the basement and other parts of the house.  
• Remove any items, like furniture, that appear damaged by the water and move them to a space where they can dry. If the drying process on items takes longer than a couple of days, unfortunately, they may not be salvaged. All things should be monitored for mildew growth.
• Get the air moving in the basement to dry it out. Open windows and doors to get as much ventilation as possible, and place fans around the room for air circulation and speed drying time.

Our SERVPRO team of Durango are Professionals in water damage restoration. We are your best option to efficiently and thoroughly inspect your home of standing water and get it cleaned up quickly. Several potential problems could arise from waiting to address standing water in your house.

Give our SERVPRO of Durango a call today at 970-259-6184. We'll make it look "Like it never even happened. "

Prepare for the Unexpected: Protect Your Business from Natural Disasters

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

In this blog, we will cover steps you can take to prepare your business for the unexpected so that you can reduce your downtime and losses.

Protect Your Data

If you are like most businesses, you have a lot of data or information saved on your computers. You may have billing, contacts, payroll, taxes, and other documents saved on your computers. You may have CAD files or photos or other data for your clients’ projects. Needless to say, you probably would lose some money and perhaps lots of money if the data on your computers were destroyed.

While you may not be able to save everything that you and your staff do on your computers, you can save and recover most of it if you save your data in the cloud at an offsite server facility. There are many companies out there that provide backup and recovery services for businesses. It’s important that once you do choose a backup provider, that you use it. Many businesses learn too late that they aren't backing up their data on a regular basis.

Plan for Loss of Power

Is your business capable of operating if you lose power? It’s not uncommon for Indiana businesses to lose power after big storms. If your business requires power to operate, you may want to have generators available to provide emergency power. You may just need them for lights or you may need them to power heaters or air conditioners in order to protect your inventory from extreme temperatures.

It’s important to create a plan of what to power in order to ensure you have enough generators and enough fuel to keep the emergency power going for a few days. You don’t want to not have enough power or run out of fuel after 6 hours.

Plan to Work Off Site

If your business is flooded or destroyed by a tornado, can it operate elsewhere? If your business works mainly online, then operating your business from laptops at home or elsewhere may not be too much of an inconvenience. If you rely on equipment or materials that are stored at your business, operating remotely may be a little more difficult. Still, it is a good idea to consider creating a contingency plan in the event that your business site is inaccessible. Are there other locations that your business could operate in an emergency? Are there jobs that can be done while your business site is closed? Having these plans planned in advance can help your business avoid any long down times.

Develop An Emergency Plan

As discussed in the previous section, having an emergency plan can save you time and money. Your emergency plan should be available and shared with all of your employees. It needs to contain phone numbers and/or a phone tree so everyone can be kept up to date. It needs to include what to do in case the office is closed. It should include what steps to take if your business is damaged. If you are a large business, you may want to delegate critical recovery roles to certain team members. An effective emergency plan should be thorough and precise and leave no one guessing what to do next.

After The Storm - Hire the Commercial Restoration Pros

One of the first steps you should take after your business has been damaged by flood waters, storms, and/or a tornado is to call the commercial restoration professionals at SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties. We have the tools and expertise to handle any size disaster. Whether it is water damage, fire damage, or other storm damage, they can get to work right away so you can get back to business as usual as soon as possible. Give them a call the next time your business suffers the unexpected from a natural disaster.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any type of damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Taking Care Of Your Oily Rags This Summer

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

This innocent rag could add much unneeded stress to your household projects this summer.

The higher temperatures and clear weather make for a great time to work around the house or in the yard. Among these common activities, re-staining a deck is certainly one of them. Both easy and cost-effective, staining a deck is a great way to add to the look of your new paint job or revive a decades-old deck that has been through one too many Durango area winters. But what if staining your deck could lead to you losing everything you own? It's possible-- and those oily rags you have piled nearby could be the unlikely culprit.

Oil-based stains are very common and can be found in thousands of stores across the country. Though something that is so common, and under normal circumstances very safe, can also become a massive fire danger if not stored properly while working outside. These oily rags can auto-ignite if they become too hot, leaving your deck and the home it's attached to in danger of going up in flames. To help you make sure this never happens, here is a list of things you can do to keep your outdoor staining projects safe this summer:

1)Never store oily rags in a pile. 

2)Store the rags in an airtight, metal container.

3) Always read the manufacturer's warnings on the product itself.  

4) If you must set a rag down, never let it sit too long.

5)For disposal, always contact your local waste management before simply throwing the rags away. 

In this situation, as in many others, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Do not wait until you have experienced a fire to take these easy steps and continue to enjoy your summer free of fire! 

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

You Can Be Prepared When Disaster Strikes

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Storms, floods, fires, the unknown- you can’t know when disaster will strike but you can be prepared. Ready.gov suggests having a plan and a disaster supply kit.

A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Ready.Gov Suggest the Following Steps for Preparing Your Kit:

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find and any one of them could save your life. Headed to the store? Download a printable version to take with you. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.

Basic Disaster Kit

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

• Water (one gallon 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
• Matches in a waterproof container
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• 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
• Download the Recommended Supplies List (PDF)

Since Spring of 2020, the CDC has recommended people include additional items in their kits to help prevent the spread of coronavirus or other viruses and the flu.

• Cloth face coverings (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

• Prescription medications
• Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
• Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
• Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
• Pet food and extra water for your pet
• Cash or traveler's checks
• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
• Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
• Fire extinguisher
• Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

For More Details and information Visit: https://www.ready.gov

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Flooding and Sewage Back-up Prevention

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business is located in an area subject to periodic flooding or where sewage backups have occurred it’s important to implement preventive or proactive measures to prevent and/or minimize the nature and extent of flooding and back-up damage.

Preventive Actions:

1. Waterproofing the building foundation and/or sealing cracks in foundation floor or walls
2. Installation of a check valve or shut-off valve on the building sewer close to where it enters the structure.
   **Make sure you check with the proper sewer authority prior to taking this action!
3. Raising or removing any sink, toilet, washing machine, etc. in the basement that may be subject to backups when the sewer system surcharges.

Proactive Actions:

1. Purchasing or installing a sump pump to pump out water that collects in the low point of the basement
2. Ensure that building gutter downspouts and drains are directed away from the foundation and toward low points away from the structure
3. Try to keep furniture and valuables above flood levels where flooding has previously occurred
4. If minor flooding occurs, follow the water to its point-of-entry and seal cracks or defects to the extent possible.

Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.

Please remember flood insurance is also vitally important where properties are known to be in floodplains or flood prone areas.

More information on prevention and flood insurance is available on the FEMA website.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Countiesr 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.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water & flood damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

4 Tips Before Burning Yard Waste

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

Approximately 85% of wildfires in the United States are started accidentally by humans. One of the major causes of these wildfires is the improper bur

Here are four things that you need to know before burning yard waste:

1. Never leave a fire unattended.

This may seem obvious to most people, but it's arguably the most important thing to remember when burning yard waste. All it takes is a split second for a fire to spark where it's not supposed to, so you want to monitor your fire at all times. 

2. Always make sure fire is completely doused with water or smothered with dirt when you're finished.

You will want to make sure that your fire is completely put out before leaving it. A great way to do this is to douse it with water or smother it with dirt. 

3. Don't burn anything highly flammable.

You want to be careful about what you are burning with your yard waste. Refrain from using any items that could be deemed highly flammable, such as paper or fabric that has been exposed to oil or gasoline. 

4. Don't burn yard waste on a windy day.

If the wind is excessive, you may want to postpone your yard waste burning to a different day. If a spark gets caught in the wind wrong, it has the chance of igniting a wildfire. 

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Commonly Preventable Workplace Accidents

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Workplace accidents account for thousands of injuries and even deaths each year. Stay aware and be safe!

Many of us who work in offices may not think as much about workplace safety compared to a roofer or someone working an oil rig. And although some professions are on average much more dangerous than others (1 in 5 of all private workplace deaths occur in the construction industry, for instance) it's no reason to disregard the things that are most likely to injure you or those around you at work. You don't need to work on scaffolding to be badly injured by a trip and fall; stairs exist in many commercial buildings, and I guarantee you that soft drink dispensers and swivel chairs injure many more people per year than you might think. So to make sure that the shocked look on your boss's face isn't the last thing you'll ever see, here is a list of the most common workplace accidents as compiled by OSHA, the National Safety Council and the US Bureau of Labor Statistics:

1) Slip and Fall

Not surprisingly, the slip and fall is a very common workplace accident and takes place across all industries. Anything from a wet floor to an uneven boat deck to out-of-code stairways can cause a fall, which in many cases could be more serious than you would think. Even small falls from chairs can result in serious head or neck injuries. 

2) Struck by Object

Number two is almost the opposite of the first, as instead of falling on the object the object falls on you! These objects may have been set in motion by gravity by being improperly stacked or secured, or thrown by another person or piece of machinery. These incidents can again be very serious, as many "struck by object" accidents involve a head injury. Always be aware of your surroundings and remember to look up when entering new spaces. 

3) Entanglement

Especially in heavy industry, entanglement can lead to a variety of accidents and injuries. Moving rollers, cables, or conveyor belts can easily snag clothing or jewelry, leading to workers being trapped, cut or crushed by machinery. Less seriously, workers can also become entangled in exposed cords or wiring which could also lead to a fall.

4) Repetitive Motion

Anyone who has ever had carpal tunnel can tell you this is true. Though these "cumulative trauma" injuries rarely result in anything as serious as a head injury or broken bones, they can very negatively affect the life of workers both at home and in the office. Education of ergonomic work techniques can greatly reduce repetitive motion injuries, and can even help prevent other accidents such as falling objects dropped by work-weakened hands. 

5) Electrocution

Since electricity is used in most every business in the country, it should come as no surprise that many people are hurt or killed by it each and every year. Workers in the construction industry are again more likely to experience this, though electrocution-related accidents can happen anywhere at anytime. Like many other accident types on this list, shocks and electrocutions can be greatly reduced by safety training and identifying all electrical hazards.

6) Overexertion

Any action involving physical activity can lead to injury. Overexertion accidents can either occur all at once or be the product of years-worth of strain that eventually manifests in some type of chronic pain. Proper instruction on how to safely lift or carry, along with ample break time given to workers who need it, will help guard against these accidents that can be so debilitating. 

7) Violence

Workplace violence is a main contributor to workplace accidents every year and can take a number of different forms. Sometimes the violence may occur between employees, between employees and family members, or (especially in the case of retail) between the employee and a member of the public. Deescalation techniques can be helpful before these situations, and having sufficient security if needed is also important. Also, creating anonymous communication channels can help employees voice their concerns about workplace violence without being singled out.

In many cases, accidents happen with seemingly no cause, as if nothing could have been done to prevent them. Even if it may seem that way, though, there are very likely a number of things that could have been done to make the accident less severe or to stop it altogether. Next time you're in your office or standing on your loading dock, look around and try to isolate any number of things that could lead to an injury. Sometimes something as simple as picking up a wet rag from the floor could prevent a life-changing injury, or something as easy as posting a "high voltage" sign could save a life. Being aware of our surroundings and looking out for those we work with could bring these accident numbers down and create a safer world for us all to live in.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties hope your business remains accident free and we are here to help you 24/7/365 with any commercial restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Smoke Behavior

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties to help make it “Like

The professionals of SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties are thoroughly trained in fire cleanup and restoration and know the different types of smoke and their behavior patterns. Knowing this information is vital to proper restoration. Before restoration begins, we will survey the loss to determine the extent of impact from fire, smoke, heat, and moisture on the building materials and its contents. The soot will then be tested to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. Pretesting determines the proper cleaning method and allows us to focus on saving your precious items.

We know smoke can penetrate various cavities within the structure, causing hidden damage and odor. Their knowledge of building systems helps them investigate how far smoke damage may have spread. The following points are additional facts you may not know about smoke.

• 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.

Types of Smoke

• 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® franchise professionals 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 Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Summertime Storms In The Rockies

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is one call away to help restore your property from storm damage.

Living in the Four Corners area you know we have all four seasons and their extremes. In winter, we get ice storms, frozen water lines, and sometimes heavy snow. Summertime brings heat and fires and many different severe thunderstorms. The summer heat and mountain moisture build through the day, spawning thunderstorms that can drop several inches of water in a short time.

Water Backup  

These heavy and sudden rains often overwhelm the storm drain & sewer systems and cause flash flooding & mud slides, Homeowners sometimes experience water backups in their basements and crawl spaces because the sump pumps cannot keep up or fail after being inundated with so much water in such a short time.

If you have standing water (flooding) in your basement, disconnect the main electrical switch to your home. If you don't know how to do that, call a professional or your local fire department to help you. If you are in doubt about your basement's electrical safety, it's best to stay out of it! Remember, "SAFETY, FIRST!" 

Heavy Winds & Lightning

These severe thunderstorms can also cause more than just water damage. Dangerous winds and lightning are also components of these storms. Heavy winds can topple trees, remove shingles, and siding from your home. Even the windows to your home or cars can be broken from flying debris hurling through the air. 

A lightning strike can cause a power surge and damage your appliances. That same strike can overheat and melt the protective sleeve of the wiring inside your walls, causing a fire to break out, in your attic, and other hidden areas. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that U.S. local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 22,600  fires started by lightning per year.

Years Of Experience To Better Serve You

We have been cleaning and restoring homes and businesses from fire and water loss in Durango & Pagosa Springs since 2010. We've seen storms first-hand many times and are ready to respond immediately.  We live and work in this community too. We might even be neighbors.. We are close by and ready to respond to your flood or storm damage emergency. 

Always Here To Help

Whether it be water damage from a flash flood, roof and window damage from wind and hail, or a fire from a lightning strike, SERVPRO of Indianapolis West has the experience and specialized equipment to handle any size disaster. The quicker the response, the less secondary damage that occurs. Our goal is to be faster to any size disaster and make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

6 Tips To Prevent Kitchen Water Damage

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Many people can agree that the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in the house. When this room is out of commission, it can be a pain for everyone living in the house. Taking simple preventative measures can go a long way to avoid water damage to your kitchen.

Here are 6 tips for preventing water damage in your kitchen:

1.) Avoid putting any fats, oils and grease down your drain.

You should never allow fats, oils or grease go down your drain. This is a common cause of sewer backups, which can lead to contaminated water damage. In order to prevent this from happening, you can collect any fats, oils or grease in a jar and put it directly in the trash. 

2.) Make sure the caulk around your sink is in good condition.

Water can seep under the sink if caulk is worn, which has the risk of damaging the counter and cabinet. If you see that the caulk is wearing away on your sink, you should remove it and re-seal it with fresh caulk. 

3.) If possible, periodically check for leaks under your stove.

If you're able to move your stove, you should periodically be checking it to ensure there aren't any unknown leaks. You should also inspect for any signs of mold. 

4.) Never leave the dishwasher running when nobody is home.

You should never leave the dishwasher running if you're going to leave the house. This way if the dishwasher malfunctions and causes flooding, you will be able to stop it before the damage becomes extensive. 

5.) Check your refrigerator for leaks and have it at least three inches from the wall. 

Like your stove, you should periodically check underneath your refrigerator for any signs of leaking. Additionally, make sure there is a minimum of three inches between your fridge and the wall to prevent kinking the supply line.

6.) Rinse plates and silverware before loading them into the dishwasher.

Rinsing your plates and silverware off before loading them in the dishwasher will help preserve your dishwasher's filter and aid in preventing any leaking. 

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Why SERVPRO® is a Leader in the Restoration Industry

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

We Can Handle Any Disaster

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties can handle any size and type of disaster. We routinely service residential homes, large commercial buildings, apartments, and institutional buildings after a fire or water loss. It's not uncommon for us to get a small water loss call for someone's home, then later that same day receive a phone call for a large commercial fire damage. 

Ourhighly trained crews and fully equipped warehouse of equipment and materials are ready 24/7 365 to respond to your disaster. A disaster can strike at any time and any day, which is why SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is ready to answer your call any time of the day or night on weekends and holidays. 

SERVPRO® has been in business for over 50 years. That's 50 years of experience and knowledge in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. When you call SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties, you can trust that we have the skills and the expertise to handle any emergency, no matter how big or how small. Several things set us apart from other restoration companies, and here I will outline some of them, starting with our 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines. 

1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines

1 - Within one hour from the first notice of the loss from you or your Insurance Carrier, a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will contact you to arrange for services to be done.

4 - Within four hours from the notice of the loss, a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. EVEN AFTER HOURS!

8 - Within eight hours from arriving on-site, a SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will contact you or your Insurance Carrier to give a verbal briefing of what the job entails and what the plans are moving forward.

#1 IICRC Certified Professionals

The IICRC is the leading, independent, non-profit, certification, and standard-setting body in the cleaning, inspection, and restoration industry. When choosing water damage, mold remediation, and fire and smoke restoration company, be sure to know if they are IICRC certified. At SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties, our team holds IICRC certifications in water removal technician (WRT), applied structural drying (ASD), mold remediation technician, and lead paint remediation. Our teams also participate in ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility. 

We Work When Disasters Happen

Water and Fire damage doesn't always happen during regular business hours; they often occur at night or on weekends. We have crews on-call ready to go at any given time. One call to our office gets the restoration process started. We're open for emergency service every day, even holidays. We'll dispatch restoration technicians to you immediately because we know every minute counts when it's your home or business that is affected. 

No Job Is Too Big 

We're routinely called to homes and businesses all across Central Indiana to clean up after a fire or flood has occurred. With our office strategically located on the west side of Indianapolis, minutes from I70 and interstate 465, we can be anywhere in or around the city within minutes. Fast action is critical after water and fire damage to help save property and protect your precious heirlooms. 

We feel like we've seen just about everything and can handle any fire and water restoration job that comes our way. From a broken ice maker line in the kitchen to a high-rise apartment building with water on every level, SERVPRO of Indianapolis West is your only clear choice for restoration services.

Stress-Free Claims Process

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is a preferred service provider with most insurance companies. This gives us the knowledge and understanding to help you process your insurance claim quickly and easily. For a stress-free claims process, we work with your insurance to manage the insurance process and paperwork. 

If you need cleanup and restoration services for your home or business, call the experts at SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties. We have the expertise, knowledge, and advanced equipment, restore your home or business and make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any type of damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Why SERVPRO should be your Commercial Restoration choice

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

As a commercial business owner, you want to choose a company who is not only going to provide your clients quality services but also fast services. That's why customers call us, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties as their trusted provider because when they call, they know that we are quickly arriving on scene and working long days to get the job done for them.

We have serviced many different commercial clients across Southwestern Colorado from warehouses, churches, libraries, to insurance offices, and much more.

We will offer direct billing to your insurance company, including all the photos, moisture maps, and estimates to allow you to focus on your job.

We'd love to help you and your business in your time of need.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any commercial restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Is your business prepared?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Surviving a big commercial property loss successfully takes planning. Sadly a fire, storm, or water damage can occur without warning and being prepared is critical.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is here with a plan to get your business prepared. 

ERP - The Emergency Response Plan 

We make an Emergency Response Plan for your specific buildings. The plan permits us to collect information before a disaster strikes your business. Having this in place permits SERVPRO  to mitigate the damage fast and expeditiously.

SERVPRO will come  to your business and see all areas of weakness and help to make your business prepared for a loss.  SERVPRO  can get to your business and start the job ASAP with all the equipment we need based on what we found during the inspection.

You are our Emergency Response Plan (ERP) Client. This makes you our 1st priority whether it is a big weather event like a forest fire or a gas explosion or a water loss. Our crew will be on-site fast.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any commercial restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

What to do after the fire trucks leave

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

What to do when the fire trucks leave? It starts out as fire but after the truck leaves you really left with a lot of different types of damage.

Fire, water, soot and odor is left. 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is an expert in all of these areas of cleaning and more. 

Here are some tips while waiting for help. 

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets.
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open.
• Clean and protect chrome with light coating of petroleum jelly or oil.
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves.
• Change HVAC filter.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers.

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water without consulting an authorized repair service.
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat or water.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged.
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Dryer Machines Can Cause a Fire

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

It is essential to maintain a clothes dryer. The lint filter and dryer vents can be one of the most neglected areas we don't pay much attention to. Taking precautions to maintain the clothes dryer of your home or business can help prevent a catastrophe. 

A few tips that can help prevent a fire in your dryer machine: 

• Clean the lint screen often, lint can build up in the trap. 
• Check the back of the dryer for lint buildup. 
• Check for any damages to the venting system of the dryer. 
• Dyer machines should be installed and maintained by a certified professional. 

In the result of any fire or smoke damage, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is a phone call away. We are prepared to take the training and state of the art equipment we have to assist in the cleanup and restoration of a fire or smoke damaged home or business.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Stuck in the Snow

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

With the weather in Southwest Colorado being as stormy and unpredictable as it is, it is always a good idea to be prepared for any disaster. That includes getting a vehicle stuck in the harsh winter weather conditions. Here are a few items to consider having in your car.

• Ice scraper/Snow brush
• Shovel
• Gloves and other warm clothes
• Blanket
• Flashlight
• Reflector or Flares
• Rock salt, Sand, or Kitty Litter
• First Aid Kit
• Extra Windshield Washer Fluid
• Chains or Ropes
• Cell Phone Charger
• Basic Tool Kits
• Water and Non-Perishable Snacks
• Jumper Cables
• Tire chains or cables

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Have You Experienced Snowmelt Flooding in Durango?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

How to Prevent Winter Flood Damage

After a long winter, all that snow has to go somewhere. As temperatures rise next spring, you should be prepared to handle all the extra water. By taking some steps before the snow melts, you can help prevent flooding in your home. Removing the snow accumulation from around your windows, foundation, and doors keep it from melting and leaking into your home. You should also check your gutters and roof, plus clear snow from drainage areas. 

When melting snow has caused flooding in your basement or crawl space, you need to take fast action to get the water out and dry your home back out. SERVPRO can come to your aid in a situation like this, as we are professional and experienced flood damage remediation specialists. 

The cleanup of a flooded basement is a multi-faceted process. We take each step carefully to help restore your basement to its former condition. Safety is our primary concern for everyone, so before we even enter the flooded basement, we ensure that all utilities are shut off at the source. Electricity and water are never good together. 

Next, SERVPRO technicians determine the integrity of your structure. We do not enter if there is a chance of collapse. If you have not already done so, we then open any doors and windows possible to get the air circulating, as this facilitates the drying process. 

We advise you to take plenty of photos as well if you have not by the time we get there for insurance purposes. If you need us to, we also speak with your insurance company to ensure you get the coverage you deserve. 

We remove the excess water using a powered submersible pump. We are careful not to pump the water out too quickly, as sudden changes in pressure could cause the walls to collapse. 

We also wear protective clothing, boots, gloves, and eyewear. It is essential for us to do so if we believe the water has been contaminated by toxins or sewage. 

Walls are hosed down to loosen any debris or mud, and then we dry out your entire basement using industrial dehumidifiers and fans. We check to see if the flooring is cracked or warped.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Removing wet carpet?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

When a pipe in your home breaks, water can get literally everywhere. SERVPRO often shows up to jobs where the homeowners carpet needs to be removed because of water damage. If the carpet has been wet for longer than 48-72 hours it is a good time to consider replacing the carpet and padding.. Mold takes no longer than 72 hours to form and spread making it difficult to clean thoroughly after that time. If mold begins to spread, then you will be in for a lot of other issues.

However, there are steps you can take to hopefully avoid removing the carpet.

1. Remove water as quickly as possible
2. Use fans to speed up carpet drying process
3. Use a dehumidifier to dry out the room
4. Steam clean carpet and flooring

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Can SERVPRO help with water damage from an open window in your Pagosa Springs home?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help with your open window water damage.

We have all done this some time in our lives. It's cloudy when we leave the house, and the weatherman said there was only a 10% chance of rain, so no need to close the windows. And yet, that 10% number changed to 100% in your area, and the wind blew the rain horizontally right into your open window, saturating your home with water. The furniture near the window and the hardwood floors are soaked.

SERVPRO provides water restoration service throughout Southwestern Colorado. We are certified in many areas by the IICRC. Certification includes Structural drying, Microbial Remediation, Floor Care, Upholstery / Fabric Cleaning, Water Damage Restoration, and many more areas. Our teams are available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. We can meet you at your home, usually within a few hours, for all emergencies.

Removing Water from Furniture and Floors

If the water is not removed quickly, permanent damage to your floors and furniture can occur. The frame of the furniture may swell and crack, causing the frame to lose structural strength. Colors in the fabric may run, staining the fabric. Colors may bleed from pillows and throw rugs onto the floor, and mildew can also begin to grow, leading to mold infestations.

Homeowners should use mops to remove all excess water from hardwood floors. SERVPRO uses drying mats to remove all of the water between the boards and away from the subfloor. Water left to dry naturally may be absorbed by the hardwood or the subfloor, causing cupping, crowning, and even cracking of the hardwood.

Once we remove all excess water, SERVPRO deploys air movers to blow dry air into the area to absorb moisture. We also use dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels to normal ranges. Fast response by SERVPRO can save your flooring and reduce the cost and disruption to your home significantly.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

On Call 24/7 to Help You!

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties, we know that disasters rarely give notice that they’re about to happen. If you and your family have been gone on vacation and you return to a swimming pool instead of a home, we are there for you. Or say someone drives into the side of your house and you need a board up until repairs can be made...we’ve got your back. Even as a small, family owned business, we arrive faster to any size disaster and will coordinate with you and your insurance to meet your needs. 

We are always available to take your call because we like to make it “Like it never even happened,” so that you can focus on what really matters. 

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any type of damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

How Can I Choose a Restoration Company I Can Count On?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

If a storm comes through the area, it can be quite scary to endure. If that storm causes damage to your home or business, it can be even worse. The damage that storms cause has increased in recent years, leading to the necessity to be prepared instead of waiting until you have damage to decide what to do.

Damage to your property is a difficult thing to take care of, so choosing the best restoration company possible makes such a big difference in your peace of mind and the quality of work. Doing your research and choosing a company you can depend on is a huge factor in how your overall restoration experience will be.

Choosing the Right Storm Restoration Company for Your Property

Determine how trustworthy they are. Being certain that you are choosing a company that is trustworthy is so important, especially considering the rise of scams that occur after severe weather. Make sure you are choosing a company that is well-regarded both on a local and a national level to ensure you do not fall victim to these scams.

Determine how they can handle demand surges If there is a serious event regarding severe weather in the area, there will likely be many people in need of restoration. If that is the case, ensuring your restoration company can handle this is so important. With our national SERVPRO® partners, you can be certain we can handle disasters of any size as we can scale up our resources and workforce to meet any demand.

Determine when you will be able to contact them. Storms have a knack for causing damage at the worst possible time. Making sure that your chosen company can be there for you regardless of when the damage occurs is so important. That is why we have set up a 24⁄7 emergency service line, so you can call us at any hour and allow us to begin formulating a response to dispatch to you quickly.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

What is a ‘Contents Manipulation’?

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

A contents manipulation is either packing or moving back your items after a major loss such as water or fire damage in order to quicken the remediation process.

A pack-out is the moving of customer’s contents to a secured storage location. Here at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties we have multiple storage options such as our indoor warehouse or in steel shipping containers on our secured lot located in Durango, CO. There are certain items that we do not pack-out; these tend to be high value items such as jewelry, family heirlooms, or other items requested by the homeowner. We generally do not pack-out liquids due to the possibility of spills.

Once remediation is complete we then pack-back your items to their original spots in your home.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any type of damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Proactive Cleaning & Fogging For Coronavirus

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

A SERVPRO® team member electrostatically disinfects an industrial space affected by a suspected case of Coronavirus.

We want to remind our customers & community that during this time of uncertainty caused by the worldwide pandemic of Coronavirus/COVID-19, we are the experts at cleaning and disinfecting public/private spaces, homes and commercial places of business.

Specialized Training & Procedures

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is ready to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). We have extensive experience in dealing with various biological contaminants and bio-hazards, and we will go well beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC strongly advises the cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, desks, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s cleaning/disinfecting 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 & Equipment

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.

Our EPA-registered disinfectants will be distributed via electrostatic fogger, which delivers highly compressed air, combined with tiny electrostatically-charged droplets of disinfectant. These charged droplets adhere well to surface areas (floors, walls, doors, flat surfaces, switches, etc.), to give you peace of mind that extensive cleaning and disinfecting steps have been taken.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.
Please call us at 970-259-6184

Fire Safety - Preparing Your Children

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Holding regular conversation with your children regarding fire safety is a great learning tool for both you and those young minds! Discussing the dangers of fire, how they can start and what to avoid that might accidentally cause a fire, are all great starting points. In school, your children practice fire drills; they learn what to listen for, where to go and how to exit the building safely. Practicing a fire drill at home can become part of your regular routine to ensure your children know how to detect a fire, and most importantly, how to get out safely.

Test your fire alarms monthly to make sure the batteries have not gone bad. This also familiarizes your children with the high-pitched noise or beep it makes, alerting them to a fire.

Create an exit plan – draw a map of your home for each child from their bedroom that takes them to the closest exit.

If you live in a home with multiple stories, consider a fire ladder that hangs from a window to help you escape. Store it in a visible location, and let everyone know where it is.

Children often want to re-enter a home during a fire if they’ve left a prized possession, pet or other cherished item. Teach and remind them to “get out, stay out”. Only professional firefighters should enter a building that is on fire.

Check windows for proper function. A window that is painted shut or unable to open could limit the number of exits your family has.

Teach and practice STOP, DROP and ROLL if your children’s clothes were to catch on fire this method could save their lives.

Fire education can certainly be fun, but more importantly, can save the lives of your family members. Never assume anyone in your home will know what to do in the event of an emergency. Hold a family meeting and organize your thoughts together, that way everyone is on the same page with the plan.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Window emblems & other signage ensure your customers know that your business is using best practices cleaning methods & supplies to combat Coronavirus

While the COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, SERVPRO is here to help keep your customers and employees safe, and also let everyone know you've chosen a higher standard of clean.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive, proactive viral pathogen cleaning program backed by our more than 50 years of experience in cleanup and restoration. With an industry-leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes, we're helping businesses across the country open safely. So make the commitment to keep your employees and customers safer. Make sure your space is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

CONSULT

A tailored cleaning program to meet your needs.

• We will assign you a Cleaning Protocol Specialist who understands your business.
• Programs are based on a range of factors: type of industry, business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touch points, foot traffic and congestion points.

CLEAN

Proactive and COVID-19 emergency response cleaning program.

• Trained and experienced in biohazard cleaning and decontamination for porous and non-porous surfaces - always adhering to the highest standards set by the CDC.
• EPA-approved products, including our proprietary cleaning agent SERVPROXIDE, a hospital-grade disinfectant that is NSF certified for direct food contact surface use.

CERTIFY

A commitment to clean for your employees and consumers. 

• Leverage SERVPRO's trusted brand to reassure your customers and employees that you are taking the steps needed to keep your space at the highest level of clean.
• Communication touchpoints include a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned window emblem, signage, marks for your digital footprint and more. 

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with your Coronavirus cleaning needs.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Hidden Leaks Cause Costly Damage

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

When's the last time you checked on your appliances?

We fill a glass with water from the refrigerator, unload the dishwasher or start loads of laundry in our washing machines - all daily tasks that we complete without much thought. Unlike our vehicles that are designed to indicate when something is wrong or at the end of its life span, our appliances have no blinking lights or error messages when it comes to leaks. Appliances that utilize water are connected to a supply source by hoses and pipes that are prone to leaks, breakage and cracks. Water damage caused by appliances can go unnoticed for months, even years before a homeowner sees the signs. By that point it’s too late to simply absorb the water with a towel – the water that has been sitting has likely seeped into the floor, walls or baseboards. Regular inspections are simple and critical to prevent your home from costly water damage.

Inspect These Appliances Often

• Refrigerator
• We rarely move our refrigerators, they’re heavy and cumbersome. The water lines that supply our refrigerator are usually made of soft plastic materials that fail easily. Checking for leaks beneath and behind the refrigerator as a part of your yearly home maintenance can help you detect an issue more quickly.
• Dishwasher
• A dishwasher’s supply lines are as leak prone as those used in a refrigerator, but they supply a larger amount of water and are generally hidden. Most insurance policies do not cover damage caused by older models, checking regularly could spare you a costly repair.
• Hot Water Heater
• An appliance that is typically hidden in a closet or garage, we often forget about this one! They hold anywhere from 20 to over 80 gallons of water at a time, and last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Their seals and pipes are certainly capable of failure before the end of the life span and should be checked for accumulations of moisture after and during their use.
• Washing Machine
• One of the most common calls we get involves the pesky supply or drain hose on washing machines. They’re flimsy, and usually attached with simple hardware that can come loose, crack or disintegrate. You should check the connection and overall condition of these hoses monthly and replace them every few years.
• Air Conditioner
• Each unit should have a drain as well as a safety switch that causes the unit to shut off when excess moisture pools in the drain pan. If this drain were to malfunction, you’re going to see water appear in places you wish it hadn’t. Each unit and manufacturer are different so we recommend referring to the manual for service and inspection scheduling. A professional HVAC Technician will know what to look for and how it can be repaired.
• Wine Chillers & Mini-Refrigerators
• Much like dishwashers these appliances are generally hidden beneath a countertop or cabinet. Their supply lines are not visible and often isolated. Even though you cannot see them, it’s still important to check them as you would a larger refrigerator or kegerator.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Flash Flooding Threats During Colorado’s Monsoon Season

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

Colorado Monsoon Time Is Here, Are You Prepared?

Beginning in late June, Southwest Colorado including Durango, Pagosa Springs, Cortez & Silverton, enter one of the most destructive seasons of the year. With the heavy rainfall and severe storms expected regularly throughout these few months, the monsoon season can expose many homes and businesses to flash flooding and property damage. While residents of the area are familiar with the severity of the storms that could impact the area, many still fall victim to flooding impacts that require professional assistance to overcome.

During the monsoon season, the threat of flood damage to residences is much higher than any other point of the year. It is also the time of year that our SERVPRO professionals remain most diligently prepared for emergencies and disasters that could occur, having fully stocked production trailers with capable mitigation equipment for extraction and drying, but also additional machines for air quality improvement, cleaning, and deodorization.

With these severe weather systems, we often dispatch our team of general contractors that can help to provide temporary construction solutions like boarding and tarping services. These immediate responses to the situation can help to reduce the presence of floodwater in a home and keep areas of the property unaffected by the raging storms outside.

With monsoon flash flooding, the entire main level of a house can become affected by several inches of standing water that could potentially become contaminated by exposure to specific substances, locations, and other threats in route to your residence. Extraction is the priority, but our contractors must also work to remove all exposed construction materials and structural elements. Our SERVPRO team can clean and disinfect what materials remain after the assessment.

There are multiple concerns for every home exposed to indirect flooding from storm damages or flash flooding that can sweep through a property all at once. 

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Breaking Down Mold Remediation

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

When water damage occurs in a home or commercial property, mold growth will likely follow.

In fact, mold can begin growing within just 48 hours of moisture exposure. That means that if you are faced with a mold issue, it is imperative to know what your next steps should be.

The Importance of Mold Remediation

There are ads out there for mold remediation and mold removal and you’ve probably seen some, but the mold removal is a fallacy. Removing all mold from a home or business is simply not possible. The main focus of a qualified restoration company is mold remediation and bringing mold levels back to a normal and natural range.

Mold spores are naturally occurring almost everywhere, both inside structures and outdoors. Issues arise when a minor problem is left untreated, leaving it to become a major mold infestation.

During mold remediation, technicians will isolate all contaminated areas either by closing all doors and windows or effectively sealing off all doorways and openings with a polyethylene sheeting depending on the level of the remediation. Dust in the contaminated areas is then suppressed through a misting process.

All of the wet and mold-damaged materials will be removed and discarded through the use of plastic bags. After that, all areas that have been exposed to and affected by the mold are then thoroughly cleaned and dried. A HEPA vacuum is sometimes used during some cases to aid in the removal of contamination and debris.

The mold area will then be treated with a biocide and left to cure overnight and destroy the mold spores. The next day, the mold remediation crew will return to encapsulate all of the affected and surrounding areas.

Do This If You Suspect a Mold Issue

If there is a chance that your home or business may have a mold problem,it is important that you act quickly. If, when you evaluate the size of the problem, you find that the affected area is more than 10 square feet, it’s time to call in the professionals.

These professionals you bring in need to be highly trained and certified in the following areas, to name a few:

• Applied microbial remediation
• Water damage restoration
• Applied structural drying

There have been times where some minor mold issues have been successfully resolved by homeowners and business owners on their own, but the best way is to use a professional remediation company to ensure the quickest and safest resolution to the problem.

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any mold damage and remediation issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Prepare Your Durango, CO Business for a Storm with 3 Simple Ideas

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

3 Ways for your Business to Prepare for a Storm

Most work days are normal. But living in the Four Corners extreme environment, your establishment is at risk of getting hit with a severe storm during the spring & summer seasons. Disaster preparedness is critical for minimizing the financial, aesthetic and emotional effects of any storm damage.  Here are three easy tips to implement that can be lifesavers in an emergency.

1. Plan in Advance

Advanced planning can come in handy when time is tight. A carefully crafted game plan should include the following:

• Emergency payroll and accounting procedures to track costs during an unexpected event
• An alternative succession of management with at least one person who isn’t at your company’s headquarters
• Emergency plan of action for all employees on what to do when a storm hits

There are private consultants who are knowledgeable about business preparedness if you feel the need to speak with one. Planning in advance can bring you peace-of-mind when dark clouds start to gather.

2. Stock Up on Supplies

A storm in Durango, CO can cause extensive flood damage to your property. Physical damage can be repaired, but the cost to human lives is much more traumatizing. Therefore, it’s a good idea to store essentials such as water, food, blankets, and flashlights. Advanced disaster preparedness can also mean making portable kits that are customized for each employee and their needs.

3. Know Who To Call

The first few hours after a damaging storm can be hectic. It’s helpful to have commercial property restoration experts on speed dial so that they can get to work as soon as possible. Research companies in your area that can respond quickly to any size disaster so that you don’t have to struggle through storm cleanup alone.

The few seconds that a hurricane sweeps through your location can change the course of your business. Disaster preparedness can help you understand what actions to take for storm damage cleanup and how to keep your staff safe.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

3 Things You Should Throw Away After a House Fire

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

Dispose of all cosmetics after a fire

3 Things You Should Throw Away After a House Fire

One of the most difficult parts of recovering from a house fire in Pagosa Springs, CO is usually identifying things that can be salvaged versus those that need to be thrown away. Sentimental items can be hard to dispose of, and there’s always been the confusion about keeping or dumping canned foods.

Here are things you should throw away after a fire, no matter what:

• Perishable and non-perishable (canned) food
• Cosmetics
• Medications
  
  

1. All Food That Remains After the Fire

When food gets exposed to high heat it can cause health problems, including respiratory issues and food poisoning. While that is obvious for anything that was in permeable packaging during the blaze, edibles that were in sealed jars and cans should also be tossed. The heat triggers bacterial contamination and gives the food a bad taste.

2. Cosmetics

Dispose of all the cosmetics after a fire to avoid health implications. Heat changes the chemical composition in most of these products, increasing health risks when used. Heat-exposed creams run the risk of skin infection that can cost more than simply replacing the cosmetics. For that reason, do not use any beauty products or toiletries that survived the house fire, even if they have no signs of burns or soot damage.

3. Medication

Medicines tend to lose potency after exposure to extreme heat. They can also get contaminated by firefighting chemicals and other products that might be near them. There may be no signs of fire damage or soot on the packaging, but many medications change their chemical form under hot conditions. That is why it is important to dispose of them and get all new prescriptions after a house fire.

Discarding items that survived the high heat situation might seem like a waste of money, especially after losing so much. However, using these items threatens your & your family’s well-being and your wallet as well.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Great Tool To Keep You Safe During a Storm in Cortez, CO

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

An emergency weather radio is an economical tool that will give you advanced warnings before destructive storms hit your area

One of the best precautions you can take is to purchase a good quality weather radio.

A weather radio is designed to alert you to a potentially dangerous weather situation, such as an approaching massive hailstorm, tornado, haboob or hurricane. It allows you to be warned ahead of time so you can seek shelter. A weather radio is the most reliable source for weather alerts.

Weather radios have made many advancements over the years and are very affordable. Most basic weather radios average around $30 and can be programmed to only alert you for the weather alerts you choose.

When shopping for a weather radio, look for the following key features:

• Reviewable alerts (you can scroll through alerts and turn off the siren for alerts you do not wish to hear)
• Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) alert programming- alerts when specific counties are threatened, ensuring you only receive alerts from your county.
• Ease of programming

If you need help programming your weather radio, you can always contact your local National Weather Service Office or for additional information, including county codes for your state, visit the NOAA website.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Steps for Replacing a Leaking Toilet in Bayfield, CO

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

A leaky toilet base can cause severe water damage over time

How to Replace a Leaking Toilet

While most household commodes last for decades, they do need to be updated every now and then. If you have a leaking toilet in your home in Bayfield,CO or Durango, CO  it might be time to replace it. Here are the steps to take to make this process as easy as possible.

First Disconnect the Water Supply

Whether you are doing a toilet repair or installing a new one, never try to do work on a leaking toilet without first closing the water supply valve and then disconnecting the water supply line. This can lead to a large amount of standing water in your bathroom. In order to disconnect the water-supply tube you must loosen the compression nut on the shutoff valve.

Remove the Old Toilet

Depending on how long the old toilet has been in place, it may be stuck to the flooring. In order to remove it, you will need to unscrew any bolts and then gently rock it back and forth until it comes off the floor. Typically, there is a wax seal holding it in place, so you will need to “break” this wax seal before the toilet will come off completely. If you are having trouble removing it yourself, you may want to call a professional to come help.

Install the New Toilet

Before you install the new toilet, you will need to get the area cleaned up, and remove any excess wax from the gasket. When you put the new wax gasket in place, make sure it is properly aligned. You can then secure the toilet with the bolts. Some people choose to use caulk around the base to protect against mold growth. You should check with your building department to see if this is required in your area.

If you feel uncomfortable replacing the leaking toilet yourself, you should consider calling a water damage restoration company in Durango, CO, to help you. They may also be able to work with you on the cleanup and check the extent of the damage. This may prevent larger or future issues from occurring.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties - Coronavirus Update

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any coronavirus cleaning needs you may have.

The recent coronavirus pandemic has made people nervous, since health and safety are a top priority. 

SERVPRO® of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties has a team of professionals that are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. 

SERVPRO® offers cleaning services including the removal of biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. 

Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning  

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. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces as well, including:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving and 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 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any cleaning and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Call SERVPRO for all your commercial needs

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

We are committed to handling our customer's emergency needs 24/7.

In the event of a commercial loss, it is important to know in advance who you can trust to mitigate your damage in a timely and effective manner. Here are 7 reasons you should choose SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties for your commercial property's cleanup and restoration:  

1. 24 Hour Emergency Response. In any type of loss, whether it be due to fire, water, mold, or biohazard, timely mitigation is vital to controlling damage and recovery costs. You can count on SERVPRO’s nationwide coverage and full line of restoration services to help your company make a speedy recovery.
2. Communication. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties will keep you informed from start to finish. You’ll know what’s happening every step of the way. From the first notice of loss until the job is complete, we are dedicated to effectively communicating with property owners and managers. Jobs are documented extensively as well to ensure timely mitigation and communication with our customers.
3. Reduce Recovery Time. When damage occurs in a business, it affects everyone from the owner, the managers, the employees, the tenants and even the customers. Our team at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties understands the importance of mitigating damage to the structure and contents in a timely manner to help reduce recovery time and lessen business interruption.
4. Lower Recovery Costs. As an independent franchise ourselves, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties understands the importance of frugality. This is why we teach our technicians to employ similar concepts when working with our customers. The following are ways that the SERVPRO System can help your business save money during mitigation:
• Emergency mitigation services help minimize your secondary damages.
• Proper restoration versus replacement of contents is less expensive.
• Faster recovery lessens loss.
• We use pre-approved  pricing and procedures.
• Comprehensive cleanup and restoration services help prevent further problems and potential liability risks.
5. Emergency Response Profile. 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. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties can help you plan for recovery before disaster even strikes.
6. Full Line of Services. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties crews are trained extensively to utilize the right equipment and supplies to handle all of your cleanup needs. 

Just call SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties for all your Commercial needs at 970-259-6184.. We are here for you 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

Backyard Fire Tips

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Who doesn't love sitting outside in the summer and enjoying an outdoor fire?

Those lazy night of summer can be fun but don't get lazy when it comes to the fire.

When you are building a fire pit. Make sure it's downwind of your camp site or any backyard items.

ideally you should clear out a 10 foot radius of space around your pit. Make sure there isn't any tree limbs hanging down as well.

Before you build the fire make sure the weather conditions are in the safe zone. Dry, windy weather for example can be a bad time to have an outdoor fire.

When you have finished enjoying the fire make sure it's out. Even if the embers are gray it doesn't mean it's safe.

Pour water on the fire and then stir it with a shovel to test for any hot spots

Summertime is a great time to be lazy but not when it comes to the fire.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Clean, Gray & Black Water

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is always inconvenient, no matter the type of water causing it; however, understand which type of water you're dealing with can be crucial to minimize destruction until our professionals arrive.

Clean water can be from a broken pipe/water source, or even rainwater. 

Clean water becomes gray water after it has been left untreated. Untreated water allows for bacteria and fungi to grow and the water then becomes contaminated. This water can become hazardous. 

Black water is typically caused by sewage damage or natural disaster flooding. Black water should ALWAYS be handled by professionals. 

How do you minimize the damage from these water types?

For clean water:

If you can, shut off the water source.

Turn off any circuit breakers to affected areas. This protects from any potential electrical shock. Do not enter any rooms with standing water because unknown shock risks could be hiding. 

Mop, blot, or wipe down any excess water.

To start drying any damage or soaked upholstery, remove and prop them up to start the drying process.

Move valuables to a safe place

Remove colored items that might bleed or run, causing stains.

Never use a vacuum to remove water. Shock risk is high!

If your ceiling is wet, don't turn on any ceiling fixtures. Don't enter the room is the ceiling is sagging from retained water.

For contaminated water:

Avoid all contact with sewage. Wash yourself thoroughly if you come into contact with contaminated items.

Do not walk through affected areas.

Do not turn on your HVAC system as it could spread contaminated air.

Do not use fans. Air flow could spread contaminants.

If food or personal hygiene products are exposed to contaminated area, discard them.

Water damage can be traumatic, but the cleanup and restoration process doesn't need to be.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Fast Response to Water Damage Events in Durango, Colorado

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Specialized equipment and techniques are required to properly dry out your structure after a water damage event.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties 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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

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 SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties 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.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (970) 259-6184

Three Causes of a Leaking Toilet

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet is a nuisance, especially when the problem only occurs after flushing. Running toilets are usually easy to fix because the issue likely happens in the tank. Therefore, to fix a running toilet, you replace the flapper or flush valve. Unfortunately, a toilet that leaks only after flushing can have numerous causes and solutions. However, there are three most likely causes.

1. Wax Ring

A bathroom leak stemming from a flushing toilet may be caused by a dry wax ring or the improper installation of it. This ring sits between the floor and toilet drains, and when the toilet is snugged up to the floor, the ring is supposed to create an airtight seal. However, if the seal dries out or has been installed incorrectly, then the wax ring acts more like a channel or a lever, allowing water to escape after every flush.

2. Flange

The flange is the pipe fitting that is inserted into the waste pipe below the toilet. The wax ring sits on top of the flange. A cracked or broken flange can cause a leaking toilet. Essentially, the flange is below the wax ring, meaning a crack in the flange will eliminate the airtight seal between the toilet and the drain, causing water to escape.

3. Untightened Tank

The main idea is that the toilet rests on a wax ring that is meant to create a tight seal between the toilet drain and the waste pipe. If the seal is compromised in any way, you may experience a leak. Therefore, if the tank is not tightened completely to the floor, then a leak may occur, even if the wax ring and flange are OK and installed correctly.

4. Other

Sometimes, the common causes are not, in fact, the cause of your toilet leak. When that occurs, you may want to call a plumbing specialist in your area to evaluate your toilet and plumbing system, ensuring that all is well.

A leaking toilet is often an easy fix stemming from three potential problem areas. However, when the problem is more significant than expected, you may want to call in the professionals.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any wire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Business Contingency and Evacuation Planning for a Fire in Durango, CO

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Be prepared for the unthinkable like a fire in your commercial building.

Have an evacuation plan in case of a fire in your business to ensure safety of your employees

You never want to think of a fire breaking out at your Durango, Colorado business, but it’s better to plan for the worst and never see a moment’s danger than it is to hope for the best and face catastrophe without a plan. That’s why you need a fire contingency plan and safe evacuation strategy for your business – to protect yourself, your property, your employees, and your customers.

Steps to Create a Contingency Plan

It’s not enough to just have a contingency plan in place. Your contingency plan needs to be executable not just by you, but by everyone in your business.

• Establish a designated evacuation plan and alternate routes. Determine the fastest, safest way to leave the building. Chart the route as part of documented procedures, but also ensure that each route has an alternate route in the event that others are blocked by fire or falling debris.

• Post evacuation and safety procedures near all exits and thoroughfares. Employees and customers alike should be able to immediately find a map of the safest evacuation route no matter where they are on your premises. Ensure that easy graphical instructions are available; most don’t have time or presence of mind to stop and read written instructions during a fire.

• Designate evacuation leaders. Your business should have two or more employees per shift who are designated as evacuation leaders, preferably more for backups. Your evacuation leaders are tasked with taking control of the situation and guiding others, especially customers who may not be familiar with drills.

• Ensure all employees have a handout with contact information for emergency personnel and documented safety procedures. Provide this information immediately on hire, and periodically reiterate.

• Conduct safety training drills. At least once per month, do random safety training/fire drills to reinforce protocols in an emergency.

• Periodically test all sprinklers and fire safety equipment. Smart planning will safeguard your people. Smart protections will safeguard your inventory and property. Make sure all fire extinguishers, sprinklers, and other fire safety equipment are operational and functioning up to spec.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any pre-season water pipe inspections or any water damage issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

What To Do When You Lose Power in Durango, CO

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Storm season means an increased chance of power outrage in Durango, Colorado

Ice, snow and high winds can wreak havoc upon power lines. Storm season means an increased chance of a power outage. Losing power at your business in Durango, Colorodo doesn't have to mean losing valuable data or working hours, though. There are a few things you can do to make sure all your files are saved and accessible for workers.

Have a Generator

Every building should have at least one portable generator that can keep the power going when the municipal supply is cut off. A backup generator can help maintain electricity to various items:

• Basement sump pumps
• Office equipment
• Lights
• Computers
• Heating system
• Fire system

A generator not only keeps your business running but also keeps your building protected from certain hazards that may accompany the storm. If the basement floods, for example, remediation experts can resolve your problem faster if you have a working sump pump to remove most of the water before they arrive. You can save a lot of money on repairs and lost revenue if you can maintain basic functions after a power outage.

Seek Alternate Sources

Between the time when the power goes out and the generator kicks in, it's helpful to have sources that can help employees save what they're working on. Plugging each computer into an uninterrupted power supply does just that. The UPS lets the device run on its battery until another power source can take over. Because it's difficult to predict how long you may be without power, especially if you don't have a generator, it's important to make sure that the battery is strong and that employees only use their computers for essential functions so that it can last as long as possible.

A power outage doesn't have to spark widespread panic as employees lament the loss of documents they worked hard to create. By taking a couple of precautions, you can implement solutions that outlast the blackout.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm season damage issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

4 Steps To Fix a Storm-Damaged Roof in Pagosa Springs, CO

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Heavy and/or large hail can quickly damage the roof of a home.

Four Roof Repair Steps To Resolve The Problem

Hail and wind damage can lead to major roof problems. Missing or cracked singles or broken seals may cause leaks that threaten the interior of your home and even lead to serious secondary issues, such as mold growth. Take immediate action to document and mitigate the full extent of the damage. Follow these four roof repair steps to quickly resolve the problem.

1. Document Damage

Take photographs or videos of damage resulting from hail, wind, or other storm conditions. This footage can help to support a home insurance claim. It is important to capture this evidence prior to taking any mitigation measures. The case for coverage may be even stronger if you also have relatively recent footage of the condition of your roof prior to the storm.

2. Mitigate Damage

Board up and use tarps to keep out debris and additional moisture until repairs can take place. If leaks have penetrated into your attic or the interior of your home, you should also remove water and try to dry out the damage to the best of your ability.

3. Schedule Repairs

If a storm has affected many homes in the area, it may be a while before roof repair is possible. You should make an effort to schedule these repairs as soon as possible after observing signs of roof damage.

4. Choose Storm-Resistant Materials

If you live in a region prone to adverse weather that is known to damage roofs such as high winds or hail, you may want to invest in having roofers use storm-resistant materials in repairing or rebuilding the roof of your home.

If your roof has recently sustained storm damage, you should notify your insurance company and schedule roof repair sooner rather than later. Take immediate action to mitigate the damage and rely on the expertise of a residential storm damage repair company.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm season damage issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

The First Steps in Disaster Restoration For Your Business

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

After any natural disaster, you as a business owner will be left wondering where to start when it comes to picking up the pieces. You not only have to worry about repairing your own home, but also your commercial property. If your building has experienced severe damages, here are some disaster restoration tips to help you get your business back up and running as soon as possible:

• Safety First. Safety should always be priority number one, whether you are a business owner, a homeowner or both. Even after extreme weather is over and flood waters begin to recede, for example, flooding is still a danger. Potential electrical hazards may exist, and gas leaks and water contaminants are often present - these issues will not be readily apparent to the untrained eye, so enlisting the help of professionals to determine whether there are safety hazards to remove will be a smart decision. Your property should remain off limits until an experienced inspector determines all structures and grounds are safe.
• Insurance Claims. Begin your claim filing process for any major damages as soon as you are able. Dealing with insurance companies can be a frustrating and time-consuming process, so contacting your insurance agent right away will help get you on the road to recovery sooner rather than later. You can contact them periodically with details about the damages as they emerge, but being proactive in starting the process will save you stress in the long run.
• Damage Survey. Take your time in processing the damages your business has sustained. It will be an emotional experience, more than likely, so don’t be surprised by that. As you assess the scope of the destruction, take plenty of pictures and make detailed notes for your insurance claims and company records.
• Salvage. Remove any undamaged items or those things that you know can be repaired, and store them in a safe place until the disaster restoration of your business is completed. Make any minor fixes that you are able to handle, but don’t hesitate to contact professionals for assistance in the big stuff.
• Professional Help. Damage restoration companies know how to handle projects of all types and sizes, and their expertise will help you get back to work quickly. The team at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties can guide you through the entire process.

There is hope after a disaster, and you can recover. 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

IICRC Certified Firm

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties 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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties 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 of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue. Please call us at 970-259-6184

SERVPRO "Like it never even happened."

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Crew members of the SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties team.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties prides itself on its slogan "Like it never even happened." When a disaster or emergency happens the dedicated team of professionals spring into action saving homeowners and insurance companies thousands of dollars by offering services to return properties to the preloss state. 

The team is professional and assists families in need to help them get back to normal as quickly as possible after an unexpected disaster or damage. Some of the property maintenance services SERVPRO offers are mold remediation, property restoration, board ups, air duct cleaning, fire and water restoration and more! 

The SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties team prides itself on providing excellent customer service during the customer's time of need and works closely with insurance companies to make the entire process as easy as possible. 

HVAC CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE THAT WILL IMPROVE THE AIR QUALITY OF YOUR BUSINESS

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Hiring a professional to inspect, clean, and maintain your HVAC system will save you time and trouble. You will want to schedule an inspection every fall and again in spring, after the heavier use months during winter and summer. Your professional will inspect and clean all the wiring and mechanisms of your business’ HVAC units, which requires training and expertise. Scheduling regular inspections, cleaning, and maintenance of your HVAC will greatly improve the air quality of your business, and that will be good news to everyone - staff and guests alike.

As a business owner, there are several simple maintenance chores that you can do to prolong your system’s life and increase its efficiency between professional inspections and maintenance, such as:

Regularly:

• Get a high-efficiency, pleated air filter for your specific unit.
• Keep your heating units and AC free of pollen, leaves, and grass.
• Keep two feet of space clear around your outdoor AC and heating units.
• Inspect refrigerant lines every month.
• Replace your air filters at least every 90 days.
• In the summer, turn off the water running to the furnace humidifier.
• In the fall, replace the humidifier filter and turn the water back on.

Annually:

• Replace the carbon monoxide detector battery
• Make sure your outdoor AC unit is on firm and level ground
• Clean AC condensation with a bleach and water mixture

Caring for your HVAC properly throughout the year will keep the air quality and atmosphere of your business pleasant and healthy, which keeps your staff happy and content. It will also save you money by improving and maintaining the energy efficiency throughout your buildings and premises.

The SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties team is here to answer any questions you might have. We are also experienced in large cleanup jobs such as those needed because of fire damage or water damage, and we are pros at mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.  Please call us at 970-259-6184

What is Fire Legal Liability?

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

A common kitchen fire can be devastating. Call the professionals at SERVPRO to make it like it never even happened.

Liability is a legal term used to describe responsibility. Here, liability refers to who will pay for fire damage.

Fire damage liability is included in most commercial general liability policies. It’s required in most cases. However, these policies only pay if the business is at fault for the damage.

There are limitations to fire legal liability coverage. Limitations may include low coverage limits; limited or no coverage for damaged property contents; or no coverage for auxiliary damages (e.g., water damage), which is common after a fire.

Lease agreements can stipulate that tenants are responsible for fire-related property damage regardless of how the fire damage occurs.

In cases were limitations apply, business owners could be on the hook for the total or remaining costs to repair damaged property.

Depending on your business and coverage needs, getting the right insurance can make all the difference after a major property disaster.

Find the Right Coverage

Fire damage legal liability is often overlooked in commercial general liability policies. Moreover, depending on how much space is rented (e.g., one office or an entire building) will help inform how much coverage is needed.

Businesses and individuals renting commercial space should purchase a general policy that covers liability due to any type of negligence that results in a fire or causes damage to another’s property.

Moreover, lease agreements should be reviewed carefully. The insurance clause defines the rights and obligations of each party and who purchases insurance, what coverage is required, financial limits, and so on.

How Can a Company like SERVPRO Help?

It’s in the best interest of a landlord or tenant to contact a professional restoration company after a fire.

First, fire damage leaves behind contaminants like soot and smoke smells, which can result in irritation or respiratory issues for some people. A fire damage repair company will have the tools and experience required to clean, sanitize, and rebuild damaged property to like-new condition.

Second, fire-damaged properties are easy targets for criminals. Security features are often damaged or destroyed, leaving a property vulnerable to vandalism and theft. If the property is dangerous and someone gets injured, property owners could face further legal problems.

Securing the property is faster and easier with a professional restoration team. They’ll board up entrance points, provide on-site power if needed, and erect temporary fencing to secure a perimeter.

Lastly, documentation is very important following property damage of any kind. Fire-damage experts work with insurance companies regularly and know what they’re looking for when compiling damage reports.

In some cases, the insurance company will pressure claimants to use an insurance-preferred vendor for cleanup and restoration.

However, these vendors don’t work for you, they work for the insurance company. This can be problematic after major fire damage.

By selecting your own restoration company, property owners can ensure they’re being represented fairly and accurately.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

How to Deal With Smoke Odor in Your Durango Home

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Need help dealing with smoke odor in your home? Perhaps you had a small fire in your kitchen, or some Christmas lights caught on fire and you are now left with a smoky smell inside your home.  Well that is what I aim to help you out with, addressing the main points you need to know in effectively dealing with and eliminating smoke odor.  Proper smoke odor removal will entail a combination of tactics including cleaning, deodorizing, and sealing of materials.

The 4 steps to removing smoke odor in your home are:

Step 1 – Remove any and all burnt materials from your home (or area you are trying to rid smoke smell from). So long as the source of the smell (in this case burnt materials) is present, you will have a difficult time removing the smoky odor. If burnt areas or items can’t be removed (such as structural materials) then you may need to apply a sealant to the area which will lock in the odors.

Step 2 – Install an AFD (air filtration device) unit with carbon activated filters. An AFD unit with a HEPA filter is not enough and will not be efficient at removing smoke odors. Make sure you are equipping the AFD unit with carbon filters as these are what will absorb and trap the gases and odors.

Step 3- Clean all affected areas. This means all areas near and around the fire incident, including the actual area the fire took place in (do not use any water or wet cleaning in this step). In this process you want to get rid of all surface soot and dusts, depending on the type of fire you could vacuum some of it away. After you have tried vacuuming the larger particles you should then do some dry-chem sponge cleaning (you should be able to pick up these up at your local Home-Depot). The sponge will absorb remaining soot and smoke (working almost like an eraser) as opposed to smearing them, which is what wet cleaning would do.

Step 4 – Spray Deodorizers to all smoke affected areas.  In this step the aim is to penetrate the surface pores of affected areas with a deodorizing agent. You should be using a deodorizing agent geared towards smoke damage; Follow the instructions on how to mix up the chemical, get a spray bottle and spray all surfaces with it including walls and carpets (obviously do not spray it on water sensitive areas like electronics etc.) Let the solution sit and soak while it does its job. As the chemical dries you should be able to assess the situation and see if the smell is gone or if it needs another spray application. If this is not working effectively then it is likely because the fire was of a larger size and or higher heat, which may require a thermal fogging treatment. Thermal fogging replicates the heat like attributes of the fire which opens up the pores of building materials even more, however this should be reserved for the professionals.

There you have it, the 4 steps in dealing with smoke odors in your home. These steps should work well in situations where the severity of the smoke smell is low-medium. Again, for larger more severe type jobs you should be contracting a local property restoration company to take over the job and restore your home to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Don't Let A Flood Cause Damage To Your Durango Home!

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Flood damage in the Durango area can cause various issues to your properties.

How Flood Damage Can Affect Your Property In Durango

You can predict the weather, but you cannot control it. If a rainstorm were to hit, there is nothing you can do to save your house. Fortunately, you can protect your loved ones and yourself from the flood. Once you hear news about a potential flood, you and your family can evacuate as soon as possible. The nightmare is coming back to a home that is destroyed by the flood. The cost of the repair can make you lose a significant amount of sleep.

Flood damage in the Durango area can cause various issues to your properties. It can destroy the structural integrity of your home, cause electrical damage, leave sharp glasses and metals everywhere, contaminate your water, destroyed the drainage and sewage system, cut off communication, damage crops, and much more. 90% of flood damage results in the home, vehicles, belongings, and equipment left in the water for a long duration of time. The primary issue is that not all insurance company and policy can cover water damage from the flood. This problem can put a substantial financial strain on you. The cost of flood damage for 2011 is about $8.5 billion. This cost can take years for the community to rebuild its life after a flood. Before you decide on insurance, make sure that you verified that they could cover problems from the flood.

Fortunately, you can reduce some of the repair costs by calling the SERVPRO technician. The techs can come to inspect your establishment. They can promptly begin the mitigation process to extract excess water from your home. The faster you get rid of the water, the more stuff from your place that you can save. After that, the SERVPRO tech can check the moisture content in the air to ensure that it is the sufficient drying condition. They can use various tools to help with the drying procedures. After the drying process, they can disinfect and deodorize your place. Once everything is complete, they can walk you through your home to ensure that you are satisfied with the results.

If you are ready to restore your house from expensive flood damage, then give SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties a call at (970) 259-6184, and we can promptly send a reliable technician to your residential area.

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Don't "Leaf" Your Gutters Alone, Prevent Water and Mold Damage to Your Silverton Roof and Home

10/3/2018 (Permalink)

"Leaf" Guards Allow for Rainwater and Snow to Flow Away from Your Silverton Property to Help Prevent Water Damage and Mold Problems

Avoid Fueling Mold Growth -- Complete Autumn Roof And Gutter Maintenance In Silverton

Mold spores are a constant in Silverton as in most areas, floating on air currents and settling on surfaces in your home. The spores are relatively harmless until they absorb moisture from any water source. Within 24 to 48 hours of  moisture availability, spores can begin the growth of colonies on any surface with even a trace of organic matter. When the mold infestation becomes evident, we can help.

Drywall, wood framing, and insulation all provide a hospitable environment for mold damage in your Silverton home. The upper reaches of your attic, whether finished or not, are common places for microbial growth if even tiny amounts of rainwater, ice, or snow seep inside. Checking your roof and gutter system in the fall is a smart move to protect your home from water and mold damage. If you feel concerned about mold growth under the roof, we can help inspect and remediate if necessary.

With the extreme temperature ranges a house in our area experiences over the course of a year come many opportunities for water to force its way into the interior. SERVPRO recommends maintaining a sound roof and properly working gutters and downspouts as your first defense against the leakage that can result in mold damage. Leaves, needles, twigs, and even branches can clog gutters if homeowners fail to complete routine cleaning.

Clearing away debris and checking for cracked shingles, loose roof flashings, and broken drainage system supports ensures precipitation of all kinds remains outside your home. During our snowy winters, dirty gutters contribute to ice dams. Frozen water pushes its way under shingles bit by bit as warmer air from the house melts the edges of the pools of ice stuck in a clogged gutter. SERVPRO crews assist many homeowners with the water damage and resulting mold infestations in these scenarios.

If poorly draining gutters or damaged roofs allow water inside to feed mold colonies, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties has the expertise and equipment to remediate the situation. Call us for an inspection this fall at (970) 259-6184 to avoid even more significant problems when the snow flies. 

Here is a magazine guide to the area.

Ultimate Solution to Getting Your Hospital Setting Clean After a Fire in Durango

9/21/2018 (Permalink)

When an area of your hospital suffers from fire damage, contact SERVPRO to mitigate the situation.

Overcoming Fire Damages to Your Durango Hospital

Even with the substantial maintenance and custodial staff that you have at your Durango hospital, the workload for this team rarely wavers. When the building gets threatened with a more considerable disaster like a fire, even the experienced staff maintaining the building lack the experience and the specialized equipment to overcome the effects.

Fire damages in Durango can spread quickly throughout your facility and prove particularly challenging to overcome to even the most experienced of restoration technicians. Our SERVPRO team has the industry-leading equipment and expertise to handle every facet of fire restoration for your building and can do our job efficiently to reduce the amount of time that areas of your facility are inaccessible.

From the moment that our team arrives at the hospital, we can get to work in assessing the full scope of the damage throughout the affected areas. This process helps to determine what personnel and equipment are necessary to overcome the effects of the fire through the building. Mitigation work also begins at this time, assessing what can be done immediately to reduce the continued damage to the structure as restoration work prepares to begin.

Our SERVPRO technicians not only seek to address the primary effects of the fire quickly but also set in motion the steps to overcome secondary effects as well. Extinguishing the flames, for example, can often lead to water damages throughout affected areas as well as structural holes where first responders required immediate access to the blaze. Our complete approach to restoration overcomes all of the obstacles to fully restoring your facility back to its top form for the health and wellness of area residents.

Fire damages can present themselves in various ways throughout your facility from immediate structural weaknesses to smoke and soot damages. Our SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties restoration technicians can help you to overcome these effects and return your building to preloss conditions quickly. Give our rapid response team a call anytime you need us at (970) 259-6184.

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Tips For Better Water Cleanup In Pagosa Springs

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Whether it's a burst pipe or a broken appliance that floods your property, it is important to do thorough cleanup to restore your home.

Tips For Better Water Cleanup

Whether it's a burst pipe or a broken appliance that floods your Pagosa Springs property, it is important to do thorough cleanup to restore the property to its preloss condition. Luckily, this is a case of clean water, which has minimal contaminants compared to cases with grey water, so the cleaning process is simpler. The only exception is if the spillage happens when no one is home because even clean water can cause other problems like mold and bad odor if left standing for too long.

Perhaps the best strategy regarding water cleanup in Pagosa Springs is taking every step possible to prevent spillage. In this national preparedness month of September, you should familiarize yourself with ways that help prevent spillage. Check for signs of leakage in hotspots such as the area under sinks, near the water heater and along the plumbing lines especially where there is a connector or any other fitting. Turning off the main water supply is a good idea especially if you plan to be away from the property for a long period. In case you have water-leak detection devices, you should replace the batteries. These measures prevent spillage or limit the time water pools around the property.

If prevention fails, it is essential to take proper remedial action. Having the emergency number of a restoration company like SERVPRO is also important because we have the capacity to start the necessary remedial action as soon as you notify us. Like with any other water emergencies, the speed of water extraction from the property makes a difference to how successful the remedial process is.

Stains can be a major headache if not addressed properly. Most of the stains occur due to transfers from one material to another. For example, books and other materials lying on the floor can transfer stains to the carpet. Metal items can also cause rust stains on carpets or upholstery items, which are close. Our SERVPRO team helps move items before they cause stains. In case we find any stains, we clean them off while the affected materials are still wet because it is more effective this way.

Call SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties for advice and assistance when dealing with water cleanup. You can reach us at (970) 259-6184 any time of the day.

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Professional Response to Flood Damage in La Plata County

9/6/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding Damages in La Plata County Get Handled by SERVPRO

La Plata County Property Owners Rely on SERVPRO for Safe Cleanup and Restoration Services after Flooding

Extreme weather systems and disasters like wildfires make the La Plata County area vulnerable to flash flooding. Properties in the vicinity are at risk of significant damage and are in need of a reliable and quick response from highly-qualified restoration professionals. Our trained technicians and state of the art equipment give local homeowners the best possible chance at a successful recovery from flooding.

Overland flood damage can put properties in La Plata County at risk of severe loss; it is crucial that homeowners ready themselves. Although it is potentially possible to clear away the flood debris without assistance, a property holder is best positioned if a reputable restoration company is ready to help. We have thoroughly trained technicians available within a few hours notice with access to high-capacity equipment designed to remove quantities of water safely.

SERVPRO helps residents move water out of lower levels using submersible pumps and water extractors. With flood waters, the possibility of contamination is always present. The ground surrounding a flooded home can be full of hazardous substances, including dead insects and animals, yard and roadway chemicals, and sewage from overflowing sanitary systems. Human waste, full of pathogens, can be a challenge to the removal professionals.

We can contain the tainted water as we remove it, disposing of it according to local hazardous waste rules. The surfaces saturated with the dirty water must receive effective decontamination. EPA registered disinfectants treat the affected areas, and SERVPRO employees must be cautious as we move from suctioning away flood waters to drying out the spaces. Air movers can spread hazardous materials when sanitization protocols are not followed.

If the flooded space in your home also served you as storage or living area, we may recommend a pack out of personal items and furnishings. When SERVPRO production facility technicians have the chance to focus piece by piece on cleaning, disinfecting, and drying out away from the structural drying both types of property have a better shot at regaining function and appearance.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is up to the task of assisting homeowners coping with severe flooding in the aftermath of one or more natural disaster. Contact our team at (970) 259-6184 day or night for assessment and development of a flood recovery plan.

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Regular Mold Inspections In Your Durango Home Can Reduce Widespread Damages

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

When homeowners think of situations like mold damage in their Durango home, many attribute this occurrence to dirtiness or some different catalyst.

Regular Mold Inspections Can Reduce Widespread Damages

Keeping up with your Durango home might seem like a constant chore to many homeowners in the area. With the threats from severe weather systems throughout significant portions of the year and other natural threats to the stability and functionality of your home, many homeowners tend to overlook the potential problems that could exist in the less frequented areas of their homes.

When homeowners think of situations like mold damage in their Durango home, many attribute this occurrence to dirtiness or some different catalyst. In truth, mold spores exist microscopically in almost every environment we encounter, including every area of your home. With this in mind, these spores are only waiting for the conditions to get met for them to seat into organic materials and colonize.

Finding a colony can prove challenging in your home, primarily if it occurs in an area that you do not frequent very often. Crawlspaces and basements are two favorite locations for mold growth to occur, and both of these are often less trafficked areas of the house. While an active colony often emits a strong musty odor, this can get missed if you are not in the vicinity of the colony. Our SERVPRO technicians can help you to identify the presence of mold and potential risks for growth from unresolved moisture sources.

Inspections are an excellent way for you to stay ahead of a potential problem before it gets out of control. While ultimately these situations often still require the expertise of our SERVPRO remediation technicians, catching a problem early can aid in preserving structural materials from degrading to the point of being unsalvageable. Often, mold growth occurs in damp and dark locations in or around your home. Early indicators are random spots on drywall and wood, which can indicate that spores have started to colonize.

More often than not, homeowners do not know they have a problem until it is out of their control. If you find mold growth in your house, you can always count on our SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties remediation technicians to arrive quickly and get to work on removing this presence. Our rapid response team is standing by now at (970) 259-6184.

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Personal Possessions' Pack Out After Fire Damage in Durango

8/9/2018 (Permalink)

Durango Area Wildfires Can Damage Houses--Call SERVPRO for Cleanup and Restoration

Durango Homes Benefit from SERVPRO Professional Cleanup and Restoration Services After a House Fire

When a fire disaster affects your Durango home, three major types of property suffer damage. The structural components of your house include framing, walls, floors, ceilings, stairs, roof, windows, and doors. Fixtures are “fixed” or semi-permanently attached to one or more of the structural components. Examples are cabinets, carpeting, paneling, sinks, toilets, lighting, and so on. Usually, these two categories of property remain on-site after fire damage, and we use strategies to clean and restore them in place.
 
A vast number of other possessions in your Durango home show signs of soiling or charring after fire damage. Books, documents, clothing, toys, bedding, window coverings, furnishings, exercise equipment, electronics, small appliances, dishes, utensils, pots, and pans are just some of the items commonly exposed to fire residues. Most of the articles on this list can be moved out of your home during the restoration process. Assessment, cleaning, and restoration takes place at our production facility or elsewhere on your property, This benefits the efforts made by the crews charged with the responsibility of restoring the house, opening up space and reducing concerns about contaminating the movable objects during structural cleanup.
 
We inventory all items moved off-site with labels or barcodes, useful for both insurance and chain of custody purposes. SERVPRO production facility specialists review the damage and work with you and your carrier to sort personal property, assigning each piece to a cleaning and restoring technique or disposal if too damaged or unwanted.
 
Clothing and other washable or dry cleanable fabrics are cleaned following smoke contamination protocols. Handling this without the proper cleaners and methods can set the smoky odors permanently. SERVPRO employees use a broad range of strategies mastered during the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training to remove soot residues and tarnish without harming the underlying materials. The approach changes with the type of material and the degree of heat and damage.
 
Many of your possessions might also have water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO technicians are proficient in water damage remediation as well, extracting the moisture and setting up contained drying and deodorization chambers for efficiency and better success. Even papers and books have excellent outcomes with innovative techniques like a vacuum freeze-drying process. Salvaging documents are probably the most challenging recovery to achieve, but we strive for restoration whenever feasible.
 
After your home is ready, the cleaned, dried, sanitized, and deodorized items packed out are then returned. SERVPRO employees help move the articles to their rightful places, “Like it never even happened.”
 
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is just a call away at (970) 259-6184. Contact us immediately after you have clearance to begin cleanup in your fire-damaged home. We have solutions for all aspects of the devastation.

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First Fires Then Mudslides in Durango, Colorado

8/8/2018 (Permalink)

The ground level of this unit is buried in several feet of mud & debris.

The 416 Fire north of Durango is now 100% contained but expected to continue burning until winter snows extinguish any fire and coals.  The fire scars combined with the intense monsoon rains have created the recent mudslides in the Animas valley near Hermosa.  The paths of the mudslides are unpredictable and may occur in other parts of the fire zone such as the Falls Creek subdivision depending on local rainfall.

After several units of The Pines condominium complex suffered catastrophic mudslide damage, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties was called to survey the damage, create detailed estimates to restore the properties and begin mucking out the mud and debris that had piled up several feet deep in the lower levels of the properties.

Despite US Highway 550, the only corridor to access the affected area, being temporarily closed due to the mudslides, our crews of highly trained restoration technicians arrived later the same day to begin work after receiving authorization from property owners.

One unit was buried so deep in the wet, silty mud that our Production Manager, Zac Fosco, needed to wear snowshoes to keep from sinking in the quicksand-like muck while surveying the damage to the unit.  We worked quickly with the owners to remove specific items that held sentimental value before stabilizing the damage and beginning the cleanup process.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Fast Resolution Of Water Damage In Your Durango Hotel

8/1/2018 (Permalink)

If your lodgings experience a water emergency, our professional water damage experts can resolve the issue with little disruption to your guests.

Water Damage In Your Hotel

Visitors might come to Durango for a water adventure, but when they check into your hotel, they expect a cozy, dry respite from all that whitewater action. If your lodgings experience a water emergency, our professional water damage experts can resolve the issue with little disruption to your guests. Our technicians armed with high-efficiency equipment and effective products make this happen.

Water damage potential is everywhere in your Durango hotel. From kitchens and beverage services to fitness and spa spaces, water-using appliances can malfunction, and pools can overflow. Add in laundry facilities and the many guest rooms with showers, tubs, and whirlpools and your property are threatened on all fronts. We have seen it all.

Building materials, fixtures, and furnishings at risk include drywall, ceilings, subflooring, grout, carpeting, beds, tables, linens, chairs, and many more. Multi-level hotels see tremendous potential for water migration during a crisis from floor to floor. SERVPRO technicians assess the situation from all angles and aspects to be sure we remove all water and dry out every structure affected.

We contain our water removal efforts to the hallway or wing affected. Our SERVPRO green vehicles have pumps and heavy-duty water extractors onboard, so once the crew lead devises a plan, the team gets to work getting rid of the water and drying the structure. We pledge to remove all water as any lingering moisture can cause secondary damage.

Once the standing water exits the hotel, SERVPRO employees use air movement, heat, and lowered humidity in an equilibrium that forces water out of structures and fixtures into the dehumidified air. It is a law of physics that water migrates to dryer areas and we use that tendency to pull moisture out of your rooms and common areas. We position air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers per IICRC recommendations to achieve fast and complete drying.

A pack out of furnishings is often an option, permitting our contents technicians to dry out those items at our facility or in another dry area on your site. SERVPRO completes a careful inventory and uses techniques like building smaller drying areas surrounded by plastic sheeting to speed drying.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties has the training, certification, experience, and tools to set things right after water damage in your hotel. Contact us 24 hours a day at (970) 259-6184 because water damage cannot wait.

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Why Hire Durango Fire Damage Specialists

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage can be tricky to clean up and you may create more problems when you don't bring in the professionals immediately. Call SERVPRO right away.

SERVPRO Technicians Understand That You Have to Grasp How Different Materials Burn in Order to Cleanup Effectively After a Fire

It can be hard to invite a cleaning contractor into your Durango home if you pride yourself on handling your affairs. Some circumstances affecting your property are not advisable to clean up yourself, however, and fire damage is one of them for a variety of reasons. Engage our services for professional assistance to restore your home after a fire.
 
Fire damage in your Durango home is not comparable to any other catastrophe. Unlike the ordinary dust and food crumbs that have been seen when too long has gone between regular sweeping and vacuuming sessions, the residues left by fire are made up of incompletely combusted materials burned in flames. They range from food and grease to plastics, wiring, textiles, and wood, and many other substances. The material's composition changes at the molecular level during the fire. The soiling left behind is toxic and dangerous to disturb without specialized training or personal protective gear. Our fire damage teams have the equipment and the expertise needed.
 
The residues from a fire are also corrosive, quickly damaging the structural components and personal belongings in a home that survived the initial blaze. Speed is essential, as the damage is progressive and must be halted by cleaning and restoring techniques matched to the type of soot. Rapidly sorting, evaluating, and then choosing the correct strategy to clean every item and surface is a job requiring many hands. Even SERVPRO crews often decide to pack out some belongings to our production facility so that the home’s structure gets a thorough cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing without being sidetracked by the number of portable possessions also damaged.
 
You may believe that you save money and limit disturbance to your life by handling the cleanup yourself. The reality is that without training and experience it is unlikely that either vision happens. SERVPRO works with your insurance company, documenting the damage and the efforts made to recover your home and personal property, ensuring that your claims under your contract are paid. We emphasize restoration over disposal and replacement, a clearer path for us than a homeowner because of the familiarity we have with what can be accomplished with innovative methods and cutting-edge equipment.
 
SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties invest in efficient and adequate equipment and supports the continuous training of our technicians to carry out the fire damage restoration industry's best practices. Call (970) 259-6184 to schedule a consultation so we can show you what we can offer.

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Water Damaged Carpet Restoration In Durango

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Green Fleet Cleans Up and Restores Carpeting in Durango Properties

SERVPRO Skilled Technicians and Equipment Can Save Wet Carpeting and Money for the Homeowner

Many homes in Durango feature expanses of wall-to-wall carpeting. When a water disaster strikes, your investment in floor covering can be at risk. The water flows naturally into the fibers and padding and must be removed to avoid progressive deterioration and secondary damage such as mold growth. Under optimal circumstances, in-place drying strategy can be successful. Our water damage crew have the training and the experience to get the job done.

The water heater in your home rusted through even as the supply line burst and the water damage to your Durango family room carpeting currently involves about half the space. When we arrive, our crew chief evaluates the quality of the water to determine whether in place drying appears possible. Often we decide to remove and discard the padding. One reason is the significant increase in the speed the carpet dries when a layer of wet material is removed. Another is the relatively low cost of replacing the pad, giving the much more expensive carpeting a clean and dry foundation after the moisture levels are brought to normal levels.
 
SERVPRO technicians assigned to your carpet project train extensively through IICRC developed classes in the safe and efficient use of our commercial grade weighted and wanded water extractors. The equipment adds heat as needed to create the correct drying equilibrium. Our employees plot a course, section by section, to extract the water entirely without tearing or stretching the carpeting. We take great care to be thorough but not aggressive with our drying passes to avoid delamination, a type of damage where the secondary backing separates from the primary backing. Delamination destabilizes the fibers of the carpeting, usually resulting in wrinkling and pulling away from the tack strips. Replacement rather than restoration might become necessary when delamination occurs.
 
After extraction of as much water as possible, SERVPRO positions air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to achieve the final drying goal. Throughout the process, we maintain the dryness of the portion of carpeting initially unaffected as much as possible. To speed evaporation we may float the carpeting with strategically position air movers, directing the flow beneath as well as above the carpeting. This can also protect the subfloors in certain instances.
 
Call SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties at (970) 259-6184 to schedule an assessment and plan for in-place drying of your carpeting. Water damage restoration can be successful given properly trained employees and proper equipment.

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7 Tips to Prevent Spring Flooding

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

A little preparation goes a long way to help prevent flood damage to your home.

Gutters

Clean your gutters and downspouts annually and inspect them for any leaks. Make sure downspouts are positioned away from the foundation. The goal should be to drain the water at least three feet away, using extension pieces or troughs if necessary.

Landscaping

Inspect the grading around your house. If possible, walk around the house during a heavy rainstorm to ensure that water is not pooling at or near the foundation.

Windows and Doors

Remove debris from window wells, and consider clear acrylic covers that will allow light to enter while keeping debris, water, and pests out.

Septic Tank/Sewer Lines

Spring is a good time to have your septic tank cleaned or your sewer line inspected. Heavy rain can overflow sewers and septic systems, causing a back-up into your house.

Sump Pump

Consider getting a back-up in case of power failure, either a generator or a battery-operated back-up pump. A water alarm will alert you when water is accumulating in your basement.

Foundation

Inspect the exterior foundation, as well as the floors and walls in your basement, for cracks. Depending on the size of the cracks, they may be easily repaired with masonry sealer or caulk. Larger cracks may require professional help. Keep all exterior walls of your home well painted and sealed.

Insurance

Review your property insurance policy and consider additional coverage, especially if you have a finished basement. Usually homeowners’ insurance does not cover flooding or sewer backups unless additional coverage is written into the policy.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any flood damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Durango, Colorado 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

We are here to help 24/7/365

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service throughout Southwest Colorado.

SERVPRO of ALMS 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 understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. Our team of field technicians 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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties

SERVPRO of ALMS 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.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

How Do Professionals Combat Odors After a Water Damage Incident to Your Durango Area Home?

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

If you are facing water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO for remediation and restoration services right away.

SERVPRO Technicians Provide Many Options to Combat Odors After Water Damage in Your Home

An incident of water damage can leave your home with a lingering smell that is quite difficult to eliminate. Thankfully, professional restoration experts have the tools, the technology and the knowledge that enables them to combat these smells with ease.

SERVPRO professionals will use some of the latest, state-of-the-art equipment to eliminate odors after a water damage incident in your home. Our IICRC certified professionals use a multi-faceted approach to eliminate both real and imaginary odors as soon as they can. Here are a few commonly used techniques that professionals use to combat smells after water damage incident.

Injection method
Small amounts of highly potent deodorant are injected directly into carpets and upholstery using a syringe and a needle. This method is especially useful if it is not possible to remove the carpet or upholstery. The method is also ideal to eliminate pet odors as well.

Direct spraying
SERVPRO technicians can use this technique to apply a spray of a deodorant solution directly onto the affected area. It can also be used to spray disinfectants in case of water damage due to backed up sewer lines as well. 

Wet fogging
Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) foggers are instruments that can create tiny particles of a deodorant dissolved in water or a solvent by a process called nebulization. The method generates a very fine deodorant mist that can neutralize even the strongest odors after water damage. The deodorant is in the form of a wet mist, and as a result, the process is often called wet fogging.

Dry fogging
The process of dry fogging is similar to wet fogging with a small difference. Heat is used in dry fogging to generate a fine mist of deodorant particles. As there is no solvent or water involved, the process is often called dry fogging. The method creates microscopic particles of deodorant that can neutralize the odor-causing particles no matter where they are located.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Why Cleaning your Air Duct System is Important

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Before & After professional air duct cleaning.

Reasons to keep your Air Ducts Clean

The air quality in your building is important. Keeping dust, pollen, pet dander, and other irritants out of the air you breathe involves more than changing the air filter. What about the air ducts? Contaminants collect in the duct system too, and regular cleaning of the air channel is important.

Energy Consumption

Dirty HVAC systems consume more energy than clean ones. Older ductwork starts leaking and not only do irritants enter through cracks, but air escapes too. Dirty ductwork also impedes airflow that drives up energy bills as much as 20 percent. Plus, dirt stresses your system causing frequent breakdowns. Clean ductwork helps lower your utility bill and helps your HVAC unit last longer.

Smelly Air

If someone in your building smokes, that cigarette or cigar odor hangs not only in the air but in the ductwork. Likewise, if you burned something on the restaurant stove top, the smoke must go somewhere. These smells and other commercial/manufacturing odors collect in the ductwork and get circulated five to seven times per day, on average. Odors continue to plague your building long after you remove the offensive item.

More Reasons

Mold and mildew grow in your duct system especially if your building suffered recent water damage from flooding or foundation cracks. Tenant renovations and repair often lead to contaminants settling in your air system, and newly built properties need the air ducts cleaned before occupancy.

Call the Professional

Air duct cleaning is not an easy job. It needs special vacuum hoses and tools to reach throughout the system. This is not a do-it-yourself task.  

Another helpful idea is to buy a high-quality air filter like the ones sold at home improvement stores. Look for pleated filters costing around $15. Not only do these last a longer, these filters also catch more debris, including bacteria and viruses, before you breathe it in.  

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any air duct cleaning service you may need.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Does Your Durango Area Home Have A Mold Problem?

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Mold on a floor support beam

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.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any mold damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated

Storm and flood damage require specialized restoration techniques and equipment. When a storm hits your Durango , Pagosa Springs, Cortez or Silverton area home, you need the company with storm damage experience and expertise. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan counties can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 970-259-6184.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan counties?

We're Faster to Any Size 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.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As water and storm damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

We can access the resources and personnel of 1,700 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events.

Locally Owned Company with National Storm Resources

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan counties is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here too, and are proud to be part of the southwest Colorado community. We are also part of a national network of 1,700 with special Disaster Recover Teams that can respond with additional resources during catastrophic storms and major events.

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Durango, CO
• Cortez, CO
• Pagosa Springs, CO
• Silverton, CO
• Bayfield, CO
• Mancos, CO
• Dolores, CO
• Rico, CO

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any storm damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

SERVPRO Professionals are the Storm Damage Experts

4/12/2018 (Permalink)

Quick Response and High Standards Will Leave you Satisfied after Remediation

When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO delivers the help you need swiftly even when a local disaster is widespread as we are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond if the need is great.
 

Storm damage in Southwest Colorado can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face. Choosing our company puts in motion a vast support system, but our local ownership means you will receive a personalized approach to your particular situation, efficiently returning your home back to its pre-storm condition just “like it never even happened.”
 
Placing your trust in SERVPRO for your storm damage needs will reap you benefits that less qualified companies simply cannot deliver. We use state of the art equipment to clean, repair and restore your home and in the process, we also restore your and your family’s peace of mind. Our technicians are highly trained and qualified, current in Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IIICRC) for any procedure needed to bring your home back to the comfortable and comforting refuge you deserve. We also work closely with your insurance company, ensuring that all the work necessary is approved and compensated according to the terms of your policy. Our high standards and relentless drive to do the job on time while meeting local specifications means you and your family will quickly return to the quiet enjoyment of your house and neighborhood. We are not satisfied until you are happily back in your restored dwelling.
 
Once you make sure that your family is safe after a major storm, your first call should be to SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 and begin the road to recovery by scheduling an inspection with our storm damage experts.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Protect your family from the dangers of Hantavirus in Southwest Colorado

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

How to Protect Yourself from Hantavirus

Spring is here and it’s time to start that spring cleaning. But if you come across mouse droppings you could be exposed to hantavirus. Here are some simple cleaning steps you can take if you find mouse droppings in your home.

 At Risk Activities

Certain activities can put people at more risk for hantavirus:

• Dry sweeping or using air blowers to clean structures that are not often used
• Working in barns or out-buildings
• Living in rodent-infested areas
• Occupying places that have been empty for a long time
• Using bare hands to handle grain that could be polluted with rodent droppings
• Hiking or camping in rodent-infested areas

Prevention

There are several ways of preventing hantavirus infections. Personal protection measures listed below will help lower exposure to airborne particles when cleaning up rodent droppings.

• Do not vacuum, sweep or dust
• Air out unused rooms or buildings that have been empty for a long period of time for 30 minutes by opening doors and windows 
• Use a Wet Cleaning Method:
• Make a disinfectant solution (9 parts water to 1 part bleach) or a store-bought disinfectant and follow the label instructions.
• Spray the disinfectant solution on polluted areas and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before cleaning.
• Soak sponges in the disinfectant solution and clean.
• Place all cleaning materials in a sealed plastic bag and throw them away immediately.
• Always wear latex or rubber gloves and protective respiratory equipment, such as a face mask
• Spray dead rodents or droppings with disinfectants before removing
• Place dead rodents and their nesting material in a sealed plastic bag before throwing them away
• After cleaning, wash your gloved hands, remove the gloves and dispose of them, and then wash your bare hands as well

Protect Your Home

One of the best ways of preventing exposure to hantavirus is to stop rodents from entering homes or cabins.

• Seal all holes large enough for mice to get in (dime-size or larger) 
• Cover or pick up pet food dishes when they are not in use 
• Store pet food in sealed containers
• Cover all trash cans with rodent-proof lids
• Use mouse traps where there is evidence of mouse activity
• Remove woodpiles, old cars, trash and debris where rodents may live
• Store hay or firewood at least 100 feet away from buildings
• Cut grass, weeds and trim bushes within 100 feet of buildings

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any rodent dropping cleanup issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Commercial Fire Preparedness

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

A fire can break at in your commercial building at any time. Are you prepared as possible?

Commercial business owners everywhere know they must keep their fire protection systems up to code, but what happens when they don't?

A fire can break out at any time.  Whether it is faulty equipment or a careless employee, you must be prepared.  Maintaining your fire suppression system, as well as planning ahead, can save your business from extended closure and lost revenue following a fire.

There are many cases every year in which a lack of properly installed fire safety equipment leads to extensive damage from fires.  If your business isn't up to code on all of your sprinklers, suppression systems and alarms, your business could face disastrous consequences.

You also should address the issue that businesses don't always prepare for - employee fire safety training.  An employee who has been trained can avoid the fire hazard, and possibly even fight the fire, using an extinguisher properly. 

Next, it is best to prepare for the aftermath of a fire.  Call your SERVPRO representative and have them perform a FREE Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) and you be well prepared for a fire incident.  This ERP profile will expedite the cleanup and restoration services provided by SERVPRO. 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any fire damage preparedness or restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Can we mitigate that mold? Yes we can!

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can be hiding in places you wouldn't even see if you don't inspect your property thoroughly, but that's why our professionals check for you!

Where there's water, there is mold risk. Mold can not only affect your health, but it can also cause significant damage to your property. It is for the very same reasons that our SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan counties teams have the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to handle any mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is unique, and requires an equally unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same to meet top industry standards.

Curious how we do it? Here are the basics for a "typical" mold job:

The mold cleanup and restoration process starts when you call us and tell us about the problem affecting your home. One of our fabulous office admins will ask you a series of questions that help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed to get your home back to normal.

Inspection & Damage Assessment

Our team will inspect your home or business for signs of mold using technology designed to detect spores and any hidden water that might be feeding the mold and growing it.

Mold Containment

Various containment procedures are followed prevent the mold from spreading and to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to also keep the mold spores from spreading during the rest of the cleanup process.

Air Filtration

Special filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores in the air. Our professionals use powerful air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to further prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

Removing Mold & Mold-Infested Materials

The mold remediation process depends on a variety of factors, but mainly the amount of mold, and the types of surfaces the mold appears on. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments are then employed to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new ones from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials, like drywall and flooring, is sometimes necessary to remediate heavier mold growth.

Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Our SERVPRO pros thoroughly clean your furniture, miscellaneous items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. Our teams are also trained to remove odors/deodorize using fogging equipment.

Restoration

Depending on the extent of the mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any mold damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Flash Flood Dangers

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

When you encounter a flooded road always remember to "Turn Around, Don't Drown!"

Spring is coming to Southwest Colorado and high tempuratures combined with recent snowfall or rain can easily create prime conditions for flash floods. 

Flooding is the #1 weather related cause of death, with majority of those deaths caused by flash flooding. Flash flooding is when there is a large amount of rain that comes down within minutes or hours. Other causes can be heavy rain associated with a severe thunderstorm, hurricane, tropical storm, or melt water from ice or snow flowing over ice sheets or snowfields.

If flooding does occur in your area, please remember

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio for current and forecasted conditions in your area.
• If flooding begins in your area, go to higher ground immediately.
• When driving, always be aware that the road bed under flood waters may be severely damaged. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. Remember that it takes only two feet of water to carry away a vehicle, including pickups and SUVs.
• When walking, do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Remember that it takes only six inches of rushing water to knock an adult off his feet.
• If your vehicle stalls, get out immediately and go to higher ground.
• Be extra cautious at night, when it is harder to see possible flood dangers.
• These four words could save your life: TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN.

When it comes to water damage from flooding, safety is the number one priority. When you can insure the safety of your family and conditions have improved, that is when to call in the professionals and assess damage. Our SERVPRO Team is Ready for Whatever Happens.

If flooding does occur in your area, listen to and adhere to weather alerts and warnings and know your risk!

See the link below to learn about some of History’s worst and most extreme recorded Floods in the U.S. https://www.bustle.com/articles/85907-the-8-worst-floods-in-us-history-show-how-devastating-extreme-weather-can-be. 

We have all of the personnel, equipment, and resources necessary to tackle any size emergency. Our staff is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week to respond and provide you with quality solutions you can count on to keep your resort running smoothly.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any flood and water damage issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Inspect your Building for Hail Storm Damage

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

Hail can come in many sizes and densities that may cause damage to your property.

UNDERSTANDING HAIL DAMAGE: WHAT TO SURVEY AFTER A STORM

Do you have hail damage?  It is not that easy of a question to answer. If your building has asphalt shingles or a metal roof, you may see dents. But, on a built-up (tar & gravel) roof, you might see few to no visible signs of damage. 

When do you need professional help? Three Helpful Indicators: Hail comes in many sizes and densities, so it can be difficult to know when you actually need to be concerned about damage. Whether you’re staring at pea-sized hail on the ground or golf-ball size hail, here are some signs that indicate it would be a good idea to at least talk to a professional:

• Damaged vehicles—If the roofs of nearby cars were dented, then there’s a good chance your building also sustained hail damage.
• Damaged siding, downspouts or windows—If you are unable to safely inspect your roof, hail damage to other parts of your building, such as dented downspouts or siding, can be a good indicator you may need to take action.
• Work on neighboring properties—If a neighboring building sustained hail damage and is being repaired, it’s a sign you should more closely inspect your roof and building. 

We have all of the personnel, equipment, and resources necessary to tackle any size emergency. Our staff is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week to respond and provide you with quality solutions you can count on to keep your resort running smoothly.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any hail damage issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Southwest Colorado Winter Resorts Turn to SERVPRO for Help Dealing with Seasonal Water Damage Issues

11/7/2017 (Permalink)

Winter resort operations can be heavily impacted by a water damage incident.

Winter weather can be a common cause of damage in Southwest Colorado ski area resorts

As the snow begins to fall from the skies, resorts throughout Southwest Colorado are preparing for seasonal guests and need to ensure that all services, locations, and attractions function properly. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is here to help with a team of qualified professionals who are dedicated to helping your business flourish.

Our technicians specialize in providing a variety of emergency services, not the least of which includes locating frozen pipes on your resort property. We can repair any resulting water damage and prepare your pipes to combat future issues that often lead to delays or closure of facilities and attractions offered to resort guests. 

Here at SERVPRO we understand how important it is to meet deadlines and expectations. With all of the attractions such as lodging, shopping, nightlife, wedding, and dining services offered at your resort, a single water damage problem can lead to catastrophic issues. You need your property running at peak efficiency, and we are here to make water problems disappear, "Like it never even happened."

With extreme fluctuations in temperature, it is common for piping to experience severe stress, which leads to burst or frozen pipes. The obvious thing to do under these circumstances is to shut the water off to whichever building has the break. However, this also means shutting services off to the building in question. You can work with SERVPRO professionals to help ensure costly repairs associated with frozen pipes on your snow resort are a thing of the past.

Give SERVPRO's IICRC Industry Certified Technicians the opportunity to inspect at risk areas of your property including basements, crawl spaces, unheated utility rooms, and outside walls for proper weatherproofing. Our technicians can provide you with unique solutions that keep operations moving forward, should a pipe freeze or burst. 

We have all of the personnel, equipment, and resources necessary to tackle any size emergency. Our staff is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week to respond and provide you with quality solutions you can count on to keep your resort running smoothly.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any pre-season water pipe inspections or any water damage issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Protect Your Investment by Inspecting Your Crawlspace

10/20/2017 (Permalink)

Over time crawlspaces need maintenance.

Crawl Spaces in the Durango and Pagosa Springs area

Many homes in southwest Colorado are built on crawlspaces.  The unique topography of these mountains can create issues for our homes.  Snow load, water runoff, and rising water tables need to be dealt with to maintain your property.

If maintained properly, crawlspaces have advantages over other types of construction.

• It gets the house above the ground, an important point in damp areas.
• It is less expensive than a basement, and comparable to the price of a slab foundation.
• Duct work, plumbing, and electrical can run in the crawl space, which makes them easier to service, and move if necessary.

Proper crawl space maintenance begins outside your home

• Adequate drainage on your property, keeps water away from your foundation.
• Re-evaluate your landscaping to keep heavy snows from forcing water under your home
• Rising water tables could necessitate a sump pump system to divert water from your crawlspace.
• Building codes typically require a minimum of 6" fall in ground level; over a distance of 10 feet from the perimeter of the building. Depending on the topography of your property in this area, this may not be adequate.
• In addition, inspect for the following:
• Depressions that collect ground water near the house.
• Off-site surface water that flows onto the property.
• Inadequate building offset from adjacent steep slopes, which generate increased surface water run-off.
• Malfunctioning downspouts or improper downspout installation.

Crawlspaces can be either ventilated or unventilated

• Ventilated crawlspaces should have:
• A minimum of 1 square foot of venting for every 150 square feet of crawlspace area.
• Plastic sheeting covering the entire crawlspace, with proper overlap, for effectively controlling ground moisture.
• Unventilated crawlspaces require:
• Seals to prevent air leakage between outdoor air and the crawlspace.
• Damp-proofed and insulated perimeter walls.
• Plastic sheeting covering the entire crawlspace, with proper overlap, for effectively controlling ground moisture.

Periodic inspections of your crawlspace are recommended. 

Items to inspect for are:

• Standing water on top of vapor barrier.
• Condensation or leaks on water pipes or ductwork.
• Muddy soil.
• Staining on walls from water or efflorescence.
• Sagging or missing insulation.
• Plumbing leaks.
• Musty/moldy or foul odors.
• Deteriorated vapor barrier.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is here to help you 27/7/365 with any water or mold issues in your crawlspace.

Please call us at 970-259-6184. 

Biohazard Cleanup in Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties

10/20/2017 (Permalink)

When things are at their worst, call SERVPRO

Biohazard cleanup is also known as crime scene cleanup or trauma scene cleanup.  SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties biohazard professionals provide this supportive service for victim's families. During an emotional period for the customer, SERVPRO biohazard professionals have developed a keen sense of how to interact with the customer, providing a level of service and compassion that victim's families need in a difficult situation.  While the police and other responders may spend limited time with the family members, SERVPRO cleaning professionals work around the family longer to perform the cleaning and restoration of the scene.

Through our service we help the family make a step beyond the tragedy, to hopefully carry on with their lives.   Our technicians work with respect and compassion, and are trained & certified in all facets of property damage restoration and cleaning.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, Montezuma, La Plata & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any biohazard cleanup issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Fire Investigation Assistance

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

A fire investigation team scours the remains of a home fire near Durango, Colorado to determine the source of the blaze.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is often contracted to provide support services for private fire investigation teams.

After a large fire loss many questions need to be answered such as:

• What was the source of the fire?
• Were there any fire accelerants present?
• Was there negligence or arson activity?
• Was it a mechanical/structural issue or human error?

Local fire departments, private insurance companies, gas and power company representatives and many others are called upon to investigate the scene of the fire and do their best to answer these and many other questions. This process can take from a few days to several weeks.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties will set up a containment fence around the perimeter of the property and install any needed wind and/or erosion control barriers. We will bring on site portable restrooms and any heavy equipment such as excavators, backhoes and skid steers that are requested by the investigation team.  We provide the investigators with a mobile office, generators for power, lights and computers, hard hats, gloves, respirators, eye protection, water, coffee and miscellaneous office supplies.

Providing the fire investigation team with all the resources necessary to accurately and quickly determine the cause of the fire, helps streamline the entire insurance claims process, ensuring the reconstruction is started sooner for the property owners, so they can get back to living Like It Never Even Happened.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is here to help with all fire damage and remediation issues.  Please call us anytime at 970-259-6184

Top Hidden Places Where Mold May Grow in Your Home

9/28/2017 (Permalink)

Mold growth on a ceramic tile shower surround in Durango, CO.

Mold primarily thrives in damp, humid areas, such as basements, showers or areas around heating and cooling appliances.  However, there are many places where mold may be silently hiding.  It's these unseen areas that can lead to significant damage from mold making it important to check them regularly for signs of moisture or condensation. In no particular order, here are the top places where mold can grow in your home:

Crawl Spaces

Most homeowners never look into their crawlspace, but they might want to. Crawlspaces can easily collect moisture from water rising from the ground or seeping through the foundation. The presence of a vapor barrier will help keep the ground moisture from intruding into the crawlspace. Adequate ventilation also allows any moisture that may collect to flow out. Failure to keep the moisture out and have effective air-flow in your crawlspace can result in mold growth on the exposed framing of your home. The mold can eventually lead to excessive damage to all wood surfaces and slowly make its way into the home

Basements

Basements are similar to crawlspaces.  However, since they are open and exposed to the rest of the house, mold can quickly spread throughout your home via the air ducts and open doors. If your basement smells musty, you may have mold growth already happening or the high possibility of it occurring. Since many basements are furnished and carpeted, there are more areas to trap moisture, making them even more susceptible to mold growth when compared to a crawlspace.

Bathrooms

A good ventilation fan is important in a bathroom, not only for the odor issues, but for moisture as well. This is especially true with bathrooms where there are showers in them. While everybody loves a hot shower, the steam created from the hot water also generates a large amount of moisture that can easily lead to mold growth. Another area where mold may grow is behind toilets and under sinks with cabinets. Moisture can condensate on the toilet tank or base causing mold to form on the wall or where it is affixed to the floor.  Even a small amount of water that escapes from the plumbing underneath the bathroom sink can be enough to initiate mold growth.

Under the Refrigerator

Some refrigerators have drip pans where water can collect. If dust or debris get into the drip pan, mold can start to grow. Water can also leak from the water line to the ice maker, or drip from the cooling coils. Sweeping or vacuuming any vents or drip pans, as well as checking any lines or connections should be performed on a regular basis.

Around the Washing Machine

The washing machine and the dryer are both susceptible to mold growth. If the dryer vent hose does not properly vent out the steam from the drying clothes, it can accumulate in the hose or around the back of the dryer causing mold to grow. Washing machines can also leak and drip down under the machine where dust can gather creating the perfect home for mold growth. Just like the refrigerator, it's important to keep the areas clean and check underneath them often.

Top Ways to Reduce Mold Growth in Your Home

So now that you know where mold growth can happen, how can you reduce the likelihood of mold growing in your home? As stated above, it's important to keep your home clean of dust by sweeping and vacuuming on a regular basis. While dust doesn't necessarily cause mold to grow, dust along with moisture can.  The dust may inhibit the needed ventilation and air flow, and excess moisture accelerates mold growth.

The most important thing to remember when reducing the chance of mold growth from happening in your home, is the need to control and eliminate any source of excess moisture. Regularly check for leaks and condensation problems around sinks, appliances, and air conditioning units. If you have a musty basement, ensure that a vapor barrier is free from rips or tears and make sure your sump pump is operating properly. You may also want to consider a ventilator fan to facilitate air flow and reduce any moisture in the air. If water seems to be seeping in outside from the basement walls or crawl space foundation, you'll want to look at the drainage around your home.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any mold damage and restoration issue. 

Please call us at 970-259-6184.

How to Get Smoke Odor Out of Fabric

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

After experiencing a fire loss in your home, there may be a lingering smell of smoke, especially in any upholstery items.  The harder, nonporous surfaces can have the smoke odors easily removed with simple, everyday cleaning solutions. However, removing smoke odors from more porous surfaces like fabric couches, rugs, draperies, and clothing becomes much more difficult. So, how does one remove these smoke odors from porous surfaces from your home?

The Baking Soda Method

Using baking soda to eliminate smoke odors seems to be a popular method. The idea is to sprinkle baking soda onto the surface and the baking soda will absorb the odors. While this may work with surface odors, this doesn't work well to get deep-seated smoke odors out of the foam cushions of sofas and the carpet pads under carpets.

Airing It Out

Another popular remedy to get the smoke out is to set the furniture or rug out in the fresh air. While this may work for a rug or thin fabric, it most likely won't help with thicker upholstery items like sofas and fabric furniture. Also, due to the chemical nature of smoke, airing it out won't cause the odorous smoke particles to break down and dissipate.

The Best Way to Remove Smoke Odor

If you are looking for the most effective way to remove smoke odor from fabrics and porous surfaces, then you will want to call a professional fire remediation company like SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties. We have specialized equipment, like our ozone generators, which are able to oxidize the particles residing in porous surfaces causing residual odor.  An ozone generator creates a high level of ozone, which contains three atoms of oxygen, rather than the naturally occurring two atoms we normally breathe.  Ozone is a powerful sterilizer, able to destroy the particulates in bacteria, viruses, and odors, utilizing its short life cycle and unstable composition.  When the ozone is released into a contaminated environment, the odorous particles connect with the extra oxygen atom and, through oxidation, become completely destroyed and consumed, leaving only non-odorous (and breathable) oxygen behind.  Our highly trained SERVPRO^® technicians are certified and trained to safely operate all of our specialized mitigation equipment as well as utilize our industry specific cleaning products.

Please call today for any odor removal needs!

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties

24/7/365 at 970-259-6184.

Post Flood Essentials

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage to a hotel ceiling in Pagosa Springs, CO

Nobody expected that the creek could rise that far, it never had before. Now, the house is a muddy mess of debris, water and extensive damage. For some people, moving would be the first thought that came to mind. However, others want to stay in their homes, repair the water damage and live on in the house that they love.

Flood damage is more than just the standing water left after the creek recedes. It's ruined carpets and furniture, wet plaster and more. Water in the home or business is just the start of the problems. Without proper clean-up and sanitization, further problems develop, mold can grow, floor damage can be permanent, and drywall can be ruined. It is imperative to immediately start the mitigation and restoration process to help limit the damage and mounting costs. A call to a professional water mitigation company should be the first step taken by a home owner after flooding occurs. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issues.

Water cleanup begins with bringing in equipment to extract the water in the home. Pumps and specialized vacuums are used to suck up the water. Restoration is a process. Once the puddles have been cleared, the next step will begin. The water damage will be in the walls, floors and furnishings. Drying is imperative to help stop the damage and to prevent mold from growing.

Air movers, dehumidifiers and other specialized equipment will be brought in to help dry out the water in walls, and moisture from furnishings and floors. Thoroughly drying water in the home will save thousands of dollars worth of damage later.

Restoration from the devastation of flood damage is not an easy experience. A professional service should be called to handle and help facilitate the process so that it is done correctly. For instance, not many individuals would know that after the water in their business or home is dried, more steps are still necessary to properly complete the job. Sanitizing the surfaces, furnishings and anything else the water touched is essential to prevent any potential of mold growth.

Standing water can leave a foul odor. Professionals can remove the lingering odors left even after the water cleanup. Mitigation professionals are equipped with specialized fogging equipment and industrial air scrubbers to help remove the last traces of the water damage.

After the restoration process of water cleanup, drying, sanitizing and odor elimination, there is still one last step in the water damage mitigation process repairs. Water can damage walls, carpeting and flooring. Drywall may need to be replaced. Electrical outlets and wiring should be checked for damage. Water may have warped sub-flooring, damaged floor joists and wrecked major appliances. Time is money, so flood damage needs to be taken care of as quickly as possible. Quick, yet thorough mitigation, will get a business back up and running, or a family back if their home, after flood damage has occurred.

Storms, floods, and even appliance malfunctions (like a dishwasher overflow) can cause homes and businesses the headaches of having to deal with the water cleanup process. Nobody wants to go through it, but when it happens a person shouldn't go through it alone. Professionals who know how to deal with the devastation left behind are the best option for a quick, safe restoration. Since professional water damage restoration companies have the equipment and training to handle cleaning, drying and even rebuilding homes and businesses, they should be the first choice for mitigation.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any water damage and restoration issue.  Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Mold Removal and Remediation Guidelines

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Mold growth on exposed floor joists in a basement in Durango, CO.

Mold is a silent culprit that invades homes and businesses that experience excessive moisture due to floods, leaky water pipes, or even undetected plumbing problems. It can be found on almost any surface where moisture is present. Sometimes it grows undetected for long periods on wood, drywall, paper, insulation, and deep inside carpets and padding underneath. When excessive moisture is undiscovered and uncontrolled, the result is growth of mold in a home or business. Mold only needs a good supply of moisture and oxygen to flourish. Even though it may be impossible to eliminate all mold completely indoors, it can be successfully handled by controlling the presence of moisture. However, if persistent infestation exists, it may become necessary to seek the services of a reputable mold remediation specialist. These professionals understand the process of proper mold mitigation and mold removal. They investigate the extent of the mold damage and determine the primary cause.

When to Hire a Professional:

Once mold is discovered in a home or business, it is time to seek professional assistance. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is here to help. Mold is a serious problem that cannot be ignored or delayed. It will only get worse if left untreated. The first step is to arrange for a professional mold inspection by a reputable, certified remediation specialist. If a mold problem is detected a mold remediation company should begin the clean-up process and mold mitigation. The cleanup begins with the removal of all mold, mildew, and fungus infested materials.

Insurance Coverage Limitations:

If the mold, mildew or fungus infestation is a direct result of some emergency that is covered by a homeowner's insurance policy, the insurance may be required to pay. An example of this might be a broken drainpipe or water heater problem. The insurance company will investigate to determine the direct cause of the mold to determine if it is covered by a regular homeowner's policy. Mold resulting from floodwater is only covered if a separate flood policy was written. Most expenses incurred for mold damage and mold removal are not covered by insurance.

Types of Mold:

There are a variety of types of mold.  The most common found in a home or business are fungus and mildew. A more severe and serious type is black mold. All types of mold can grow behind walls causing a smelly odor that requires deodorization techniques to eliminate. Once a smelly odor is detected in an area, mold damage may already have occurred. The first indication that mildew or fungus exists is the smelly odor that is present with commercial mold damage and mold in the home as well. This requires an extensive deodorization process.

Professional Mold Removal and Mitigation:

To prevent further mold damage, professionals employ extensive mitigation techniques to eliminate the moisture source as they go about the process of mold removal. Some professionals use a thermal fogging system that works by combining a deodorizer with a fresh scent in the process of deodorization. When there is extensive commercial mold damage, experts recommend opening windows, running ceiling fans, and operating exhaust fans to help disperse bad smells that were created by the mold.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan Counties is here to help you 24/7/365 with any mold damage and restoration issue.

Please call us at 970-259-6184

Fire Damage Essentials

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan counties responds to commercial, multi-tenant and single family home fires.

When a fire loss occurs, immediate assistance from a profession fire damage restoration company is essential.  Any delay in getting professional help could result in further damage and the need for costly repairs.

After a residential or commercial fire damage, the probability of further damage due to standing water or excessive moisture is higher. It is imperative that you protect your investment by acting fast to get professional help.

Smoke is a byproduct of fire and because it is acidic, it is capable of causing corrosion and staining of surfaces such as counters and walls. In some cases, there is extensive smoke and soot damage, which need to be addressed appropriately.

The methods used to extinguish fires in homes and businesses leads to excess water in the affected area. Fire cleanup professionals, like SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties, provide fast services for smoke and soot damage, as well as get rid of the lingering smoke smell.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:

• Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties
• Open all the windows to get air moving to decrease the smoke smell
• Move kids and pets to a smoke-free area. Move them to a relative's or friend's home until the fire cleanup or restoration is complete
• Inventory your belongings. Make a list of the contents of your home or business that need replacing. Taking pictures of the affected items or damage is a good idea. You will need these for insurance claims purposes, and for your own records.

THE INITIAL ASSESSMENT:

Fire cleanup professionals enter the property to conduct the necessary assessment and determine how to approach the situation. During the assessment, they will be able to provide an approximate estimate for the fire cleanup.

FILING THE INSURANCE CLAIM:

SERVPRO fire damage restoration teams can also help to you through the insurance claims process. They will be able to provide much needed communication and details about your home or commercial fire damage to your insurance adjuster. This gives you immediate access to money to pay for fire damage restoration services. They will answer your questions, address your concerns, and explain the entire process to you. They get everything taken care of so you can get back to your normal life.

WATER REMOVAL:

The most important step for remediation is removing all water left in the home or business. Standing water increases the risk of weakening the framing and support. Fire damage restoration professionals use state-of-the-art vacuums and high powered dryers to remove all water and moisture from the area.

ELIMINATING DAMAGED MATERIALS:

Our fire cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Counties will remove all damaged materials and lingering smoke smell using appropriate protocol. They wear protective clothing and remove the materials prior to beginning the fire cleanup efforts.  A thorough cleaning of all areas of your property affected by the fire, smoke damage, soot damage and any remaining smoke smell will be performed in order to make it Like it Never Even Happened.

REPUTABLE FIRE DAMAGE TEAM:

Dealing with a fire in your business or home is something most property owners have never had to experience. Restoration teams deal with this type of crisis often and know exactly how to handle the situation. It is crucial that a highly experienced and dedicated restoration team of professionals can get in quickly to provide the fire cleaning service. Experienced technicians have great expertise in mitigating the damage created after a fire.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan counties is here to help 24/7/365 with any fire damage and restoration issues. Please call us at 970-259-6184.

Rico, Colorado City Hall Building has Bats in the Belfry

9/7/2017 (Permalink)

Bats roost in the attic of the City Hall Building in Rico, CO.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan counties was recently contacted by officials from the town of Rico, CO inquiring about pest mitigation.  Bats have been roosting in the attic space of the City Hall building for years and they were becoming a nuisance due to noise and the bat guano odor.

Zac Fosco, our production manager, went onsite to investigate this batty situation. Zac has previous bat eradication experience from a job we performed at a historic church in Vallecito, CO several years ago.  While bats scare a lot of people there is very little risk of actually getting bitten or attacked by the bats.  The most pertinent risk is exposure to Histoplasmosis, a leading cause of lung infections around the world.  Histoplasmosis is a disease that results from inhalation of spores of the fungus Histoplasma Capsulatum. The fungus is found naturally in the environment, and breathing in the microscopic, airborne spores from the fungus can cause lung infections.  Based on this knowledge, Zac decided to wear full Personal Protective Equipment including a MultiGuard coverall suit and a Full Face Powered Air Purifying Respirator to investigate the attic space.

When Zac entered the dark attic space and pointed his flashlight toward the ceiling, he was met with hundreds of pairs of shining eyes reflecting back at him! Undaunted by the peering eyes and occasional fly by, Zac completed a full survey and assessment of the attic space and cleanup project.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan counties was recently awarded the project and will begin mitigation next week. 

The bats are federally protected so there is no option to use any type of poison.  Bat exclusion techniques, such as sealing all openings, installing spring loaded one-way doors that allow the bats to exit but not return, ozone deployment and other methods will be utilized to rid the bats from the belfry before cleanup begins.

We will post additional blogs on this batty project as it progresses.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan counties can help with any pest eradication and cleanup issue you may have.  Please call us 24/7 at 970-259-6184.

Large Manufacturing Plant Fire in Mancos, CO

9/6/2017 (Permalink)

Large excavation equipment begin demolition after severe fire damage to a manufacturing plant in Mancos, Colorado.

No job is too big for SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties!

A large manufacturing plant in Mancos, CO recently suffered a devastating fire incident. No injuries were reported as 10 different fire departments within a 90-mile radius arrived to battle the blaze which continued to smolder for several weeks.  The vast majority of structures were severely damaged and unsalvageable. Asbestos testing required by Colorado Reg 8 was performed and a licensed Asbestos Abatement Contractor was brought onsite to safely remove and dispose of all materials that tested positive.  The site required full demolition and all scrap material/debris hauled off to be disposed of properly.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties was able to obtain all the proper permits and mobilize all the resources necessary to complete the project:

• Skilled Labor
• Heavy Equipment Operators
• Multiple Heavy Track Excavators
• Rock Crusher
• Large Trash Roll Offs
• Large Hauling Trucks

The SERVPRO team is taking care to recycle materials whenever possible. Steel beams, panels and production equipment are being hauled to a metal recycling company.  The concrete foundations, floors and slabs will be crushed onsite into rubble for road base material to be used in future construction at the plant.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Counties is excited to take on this high-profile project and be a part of restoring the vitality of the Mancos, CO community after this catastrophic fire.

We will post additional Blogs with status updates as this large-scale project progresses.

We are here to help with any fire damage incident you may have.  Please call us anytime at 970-259-6184.

Rescuing the Unsalvageable

7/1/2017 (Permalink)

The true hero from the recent fire in Pagosa being restored to its' loveable state!

In our busy lives, we easily become consumed in our daily routine, often losing sight of what is truly important. It can sometimes take a significant event to bring us back into focus. That is why SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s appreciate the moments that make us pause, allowing us to recognize how we can truly make a difference.

Recently, the town of Pagosa Springs suffered a major fire loss. This commercial structure housed a number of businesses, all of which were displaced—some temporarily closing, and some fortunately relocating other facilities. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s were contacted to help with the clean-up. Initially, we were focused on the processes involved with the mitigation: from the numerous levels of asbestos testing, the required state approval before ANY movement of debris, to the coordination of the machinery and drivers needed to transport debris to the disposal site.

In the midst of this process, a man, Lee, approached the Owner of SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s saying that on that particular day, we were moving the debris where his office used to be. Lee explained that he was a counselor who worked mainly with children, and had an item of significance that he was hoping had survived the fire—a big stuffed bear that offered comfort and security as he guided these children through their troubles. Always more than willing to help, Owner, Keith Harlan, guided Lee through the debris field, digging in search of this much needed object. Eventually, the bear surfaced—covered in soot, black, dirty and far from the soft, white, fluffy bear it once was. Lee’s disappointment was evident, thinking it unsalvageable and soon to be discarded. 

However, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s always accepts a challenge and offered to bring the bear to our shop for some much needed TLC. Keith delivered the bear to our Content Specialist, Jennifer Nix, who went straight to work after hearing the story, excited to use some of her magic for such a special purpose. After some scrubbing with specialty SERVPRO cleaning products and a cycle through our commercial grade Esporta Wash System, the results were amazing!! We were honored to help restore this bear—contributing to the vital purpose of providing much needed love, support, and comfort in difficult times.

Thank you, Lee, for reminding us of what is truly important—it was our privilege to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Call us today for whatever disaster that may happen – (970) 259-6184 – We are here to help!!

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service for Durango and Surrounding Areas

4/28/2017 (Permalink)

Drying equipment in place after water loss. Water came from above and flooring had to be removed.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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 - (970) 259-6184

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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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.

• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CDS - Commercial Drying Specialist
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CBI - Certified Colorado Asbestos Building Inspector
• ACF - Asbestos Consulting Firm

Professional Carpet Cleaning for Houseboats at Lake Navajo!

10/6/2016 (Permalink)

Our "floating" carpet cleaning machine!

Identifying a Need –

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co.’s is always looking for ways to provide much needed services for residents in the Four Corners area.  As you may know, Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico is home to the beautiful 25-mile long Lake Navajo.  And what is a common fixture on a lake of this size?  BOATS, of course!!

It occurred to us here at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co.’s that many of these boats would have carpets, and well…carpets DO benefit from regular cleaning.  Smaller boats can be trailered and taken out of the water to a Qualified Carpet Cleaner, but how often is a HOUSEBOAT able to have the advantage of a professional grade cleaning?

Setting Sail on New Adventures –

After contacting several houseboat owners and hearing a resounding “YES!!” when asked if they would be interested in not only the ability to have their carpets professionally cleaned, but also any upholstery, we set our sights on how we would be able to make this happen.  The owner of SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma & San Juan Co.’s procured the use of a barge from one of the marinas.  We brought down our trailer containing our Truck Mount Extraction unit used to deliver our quality carpet cleaning.  The marina helped us with the use of their fork lift and we placed our trailer onto the barge, making it a floatable carpet cleaning machine!!  We cleaned a multitude of boats over the next several days, and all of our customers were pleased with the results.  Definitely a worthwhile experience for all involved.

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co.’s was able to not only provide a much needed service for our Four Corners residents, we had a fun time doing it!!  Check out our Facebook page for more photos.  We love to face challenges head on, and figure out a solution.  This was definitely one of a kind, and we look forward to next year when we can do it again….

Call us today for ANY Carpet Cleaning Needs – (970) 259-6184

Smoke Alarms DO Save Lives in Southwest Colorado

9/23/2016 (Permalink)

Make sure YOUR smoke alarm is effectively operating on a regular basis!

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives and, when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury in half.*

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees, or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement

•  Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button

• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm "chirps," the battery is low and should be replaced right away

• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old

JUST THE FACTS: 

• Three out of five fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or when the alarms are not working

•  Smoke alarm failures usually result from missing, disconnected, or dead batteries

• More than one-third (37 percent) of home fire deaths result from fires in which no smoke alarms are present

• The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms

Even if a fire should occur in your Southwest Colorado home, call SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's for any assistance you may need - (970) 259-6184

*Statistics and tips provided by National Fire Prevention Association

Popcorn Ceiling Texture and Asbestos

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

Close up of the texture in a popcorn ceiling

Removing popcorn ceiling texture seems to be one of the first projects new home buyers want to take on after purchasing their new home these days. There is plenty of information out on the web (from YoutTube to Pinterest) on how to remove popcorn textures but little information about the asbestos associated with it. 

Asbestos was used prevalently in popcorn ceiling texturing in homes built before the 1980's and is found often during inspections. Because popcorn texturing is highly friable (can be turned to dust via hand pressure), it is very important to obtain an asbestos inspection before working with this material.  SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's is a certified Asbestos Consulting Firm able to help with these inspection needs.

A minimum of three or more samples will be taken to properly inspect the ceiling textures for asbestos.  Samples can than be scraped directly into a sealable polyethylene bag and sent to a laboratory for sampling. With two state certified Colorado Asbestos Building Inspectors as part of our staff, SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's will handle the sampling process for you.

Asbestos containing popcorn texturing should be removed by a state certified asbestos abatement contractor according to all state and federal regulations.  SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's can also help coordinate these services for you.

Call today with any of your questions or concerns regarding asbestos - (970) 259-6184

Concerns with Mold in your Four Corners Area home?

6/23/2016 (Permalink)

Intrusion of water into your home can result in mold growth

From The Ordinary....

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment.  In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified.  

Fungi produce some very useful results.  Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages.  The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold.  An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold.

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful.  Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people.

To The Unhealthy...

Intrusion of water into your Four Corners Area home can result in mold growth.  Water intrusions can be a result of storm damage, plumbing failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control.  When these intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.  Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments.  If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply.  Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish.  Excessive mold growth can lead to indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

Take Precautions

The Professionals at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.  Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time.  If your Four Corners Area property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly.  If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

·          The presence of visible mold.

·          Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.

·          Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.

·          Excessive humidity.

Help is Here!! 

If you think you might have a mold problem, the Professionals at SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co’s are here to make it “Like it never even happened."

Call us today at (970) 259-6184 for any Mold concerns 

Need help with Asbestos?

6/9/2016 (Permalink)

Owner, Keith Harlan, and Production Manager, Zac Fosco - Certified Colorado Building Inspectors

Did you know.....

The state of Colorado adheres to strict guidelines due to CO Reg 8 when it comes to the handling of ANY asbestos containing materials (ACM). In the state of Colorado, anything over 32 square feet of material MUST be sampled prior to demolition. 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's is a certified Asbestos Consulting Firm. Our owner, Keith Harlan, and Production Manager, Zac Fosco, recently attended an annual certification class to maintain their status as certified Colorado Building Inspectors which allows them to assess and collect any potential ACM.

These certifications are maintained by SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's in order to protect the health and safety of all residents in Southwest Colorado.

Call us today for any Asbestos needs - (970) 259-6184

For Immediate Service in the Four Corners, Call SERVPRO

6/2/2016 (Permalink)

Four Corners Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in the Four Corners area. 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 – (970) 259-6184

Residential Services

Whether your Four Corners area 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 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

Faster to your Four Corners Water Damage Event

5/26/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in the Four Corners area

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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 – (970) 259-6184

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 SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 

SERVPRO of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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.

Durango Area Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/20/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your La Plata County Home.

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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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 – (970) 259-6184

Four Corners Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

5/19/2016 (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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's  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 Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma, & San Juan Co's 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 – (970) 259-6184