Telltale Signs and Symptoms of Hidden Mold Damage in Chicago Ridge?

10/7/2024 (Permalink)

We restore mold damage in Cook County.

Our Oak Lawn team is a leader in mold damage remediation in Chicago Ridge. Here are some of the signs and symptoms of mold damage:

1. Visible Mold Growth: Mold can appear as black, green, white, or even orange spots or patches on walls, ceilings, floors, and other surfaces.

1. Musty Odor: A persistent, unpleasant, musty smell is often a strong indicator of mold, especially if the odor is most pungent in specific areas of the home.

1. Water Stains or Discoloration: Yellow, brown, or dark stains on walls, ceilings, or floors can indicate moisture problems, which can often lead to mold growth.

1. Warping or Buckling: Warped walls, floors, or ceilings can indicate that moisture has penetrated the structure, potentially leading to mold.

1. Peeling or Bubbling Paint or Wallpaper: Excess moisture behind walls can cause paint or wallpaper to peel or bubble, often associated with mold growth.

1. Increased Humidity or Condensation: Excessive humidity, condensation on windows, or moisture buildup in certain areas can create the perfect mold environment.

1. Previous Water Damage: If your home has experienced flooding, leaks, or any other water damage, there's a higher chance of mold growth in those areas.

1. Rusting Metal: Metal objects in humid areas of the home might start to rust, which can indicate an environment conducive to mold growth.

Call Us Today!

When your Chicago Ridge home or commercial business has a mold problem, our local Oak Lawn team is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Space Heaters and Fire Risk: The Dangers of Placing Heaters Too Close to Beds in Worth?

9/30/2024 (Permalink)

We are fire damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

Our local Oak Lawn team responds to fire damage emergencies every year in Worth. Space heaters are a popular solution for keeping warm during colder months, but they can pose a significant fire risk if not used cautiously.

One of the most common causes of space heater fires is placing the heater too close to a bed or other flammable objects. If a space heater is placed too close to bedding, blankets, or curtains, the high heat can quickly ignite these items, potentially causing a fire that can swiftly engulf the entire room. rapidly spread throughout the room.

To avoid such a catastrophe, it's crucial to keep the heater at least three feet away from any flammable materials. Always place the heater on a stable, non-flammable surface, and never leave it unattended while operating.

It’s not just about using space heaters, but about using them safely. A good approach is to choose space heaters with built-in safety features like automatic shut-off if the unit tips over or overheats. Additionally, routinely checking the heater for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction can further enhance safe operation.

By following these safety guidelines and making informed choices about your heating equipment, you can enjoy the warmth of a space heater without putting your home at risk of fire.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Worth has fire damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Sewage Backup: A Critical Concern for Commercial Properties in Worth?

9/24/2024 (Permalink)

We are commercial water damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

A sewage backup in a commercial property is more than just an unpleasant inconvenience—it’s a severe issue that requires immediate attention. Sewage backups can occur for various reasons, including clogged pipes, aging plumbing systems, or heavy rainfall overwhelming municipal sewer systems. When sewage backs up into a commercial building, it can cause significant damage to the property, disrupt business operations, and lead to costly repairs.

The contamination from sewage backup is particularly concerning, as it can affect not only the physical structure of your building but also its contents, including furniture, electronics, and important documents. Additionally, foul odors and unsanitary conditions can make the space uninhabitable, forcing businesses to close temporarily.

Quick and professional intervention is crucial when dealing with a sewage backup. Our local Oak Lawn team responds to commercial water damage emergencies in Worth 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our highly trained water damage restoration technicians are equipped to handle these emergencies, providing water extraction, decontamination, and thoroughly cleaning the affected areas. By acting swiftly, you can minimize the damage and get your business back to normal operations as quickly as possible, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone involved.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Worth has water damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Malfunctioning Sump Pump Causes Basement Flooding in Oak Lawn Home?

9/17/2024 (Permalink)

We mitigate and restore storm damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Oak Lawn team restores storm damage in Oak Lawn every year. A sump pump is a critical defense against basement flooding, especially during summer when heavy rains can overwhelm drainage systems. However, when a sump pump fails, the consequences can be devastating. Many homeowners rely on sump pumps to keep their basements dry, but these devices are not infallible.

Sump pump failures often occur due to power outages during severe storms, which are common in the summer months. Without a backup power source, the pump stops working, allowing water to seep into the basement.

Mechanical failures, such as a clogged intake or a malfunctioning float switch, can also render the pump ineffective. Additionally, if the pump is improperly sized or installed, it may not be able to handle the volume of water during heavy rainfall, leading to flooding.

Basement flooding can cause severe damage to floors, walls, and personal items, and it can also encourage mold growth. To avoid this, it's essential to regularly maintain and test your sump pump. Adding a battery backup system can further ensure that your pump remains operational during power outages, offering peace of mind and safeguarding your home against potential water damage.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has storm damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

What You Need to Know About Electric Blankets and Fire Risks in Alsip?

9/10/2024 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Oak Lawn team is highly trained and certified to restore fire damage in Alsip. Electric blankets provide warmth during cold nights, but they can also pose fire risks if not used properly. One significant risk is overheating, which can occur if the blanket is used for extended periods or is not designed for continuous use.

A common cause of electric blanket fires is the malfunction or wear of internal wiring. Over time, the wires inside the blanket can fray or become damaged, creating short circuits that can ignite surrounding materials. Additionally, using an electric blanket that is older or not certified by a recognized safety standard can increase the risk.

To minimize the fire risk, ensure your electric blanket is in good condition and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid folding or tucking in the blanket, which can cause overheating in localized areas. Regularly inspect the blanket for signs of wear and replace it if necessary. Proper maintenance and cautious use are key to enjoying the warmth of an electric blanket safely.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Alsip is damaged by fire, our local team in Oak Lawn is always Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Lightning Safety Tips: When Thunder Roars Go Indoors in Hickory Hills?

9/3/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24/7 in Cook County.

Our local Oak Lawn team restores storm damage “Like it never even happened” in Hickory Hills. Summer thunderstorms are common, bringing the awe-inspiring yet dangerous spectacle of lightning. Ensuring safety during these storms is crucial, especially when lightning is involved. Here are some essential tips to protect yourself and your loved ones.

First, the safest place during a thunderstorm is indoors. Avoid open fields, high land, trees, poles, or other tall objects. Once inside, stay away from windows, doors, and anything that conducts electricity, including corded phones, appliances, wires, TV cables, and plumbing.

If you find yourself outdoors during a storm without the option to take shelter in a building or vehicle, you can lessen your risk by adopting a safer posture. Crouch low to the ground on the balls of your feet, keep your head down, and cover your ears with your hands. Try to make your body as small as possible and limit your contact with the ground to reduce your exposure to lightning.

Remember, lightning can strike even when the storm is not overhead, so it's important to wait at least thirty minutes after the last thunderclap before going outside. Also, consider installing surge protectors in your home to protect your electronics and appliances from unexpected power surges caused by a lightning strike.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Hickory Hills has storm damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Professional Restoration Services for Cleaning Smoke and Soot Residue in Bridgeview?

8/27/2024 (Permalink)

We are storm damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

When a fire strikes, the immediate damage is often visible, but the aftermath, particularly smoke and soot residue, can be just as devastating to a home. Smoke and soot particles can permeate the entire structure, embedding themselves into walls, ceilings, furniture, and personal belongings. While it may be tempting to handle the cleanup yourself, the complexity of removing smoke and soot residue completely requires professional restoration services.

Our local Oak Lawn team is a top choice for fire damage restoration services in Bridgeview. We have the training, equipment, and experience to remove smoke residue and soot particles without causing further damage. It's crucial to understand that soot is acidic and can cause long-term harm if not adequately addressed. It can corrode metals, discolor fabrics, and weaken structural components over time. Also, improper cleaning techniques can push soot deeper into surfaces, making eliminating it more difficult.

Our professionals use advanced equipment, such as HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers, to remove airborne particles that can settle and cause additional damage. By relying on our highly trained teams, homeowners can ensure that their property is thoroughly cleaned and restored, preventing future issues and preserving the integrity of their home.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Bridgeview has fire, smoke, and soot damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Restoration Services for Summer Storm Damage in Oak Lawn?

8/20/2024 (Permalink)

We are storm damage restoration leaders in Cook County.

Oak Lawn, Illinois, is no stranger to dramatic summer storms, which can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail. These storms often significantly damage homes and properties, making effective storm and flood damage cleanup essential for affected residents. Finding the proper help is critical when dealing with the aftermath of such storms.

Our local team in Oak Lawn is a top choice for storm damage restoration services. We are available to assist residents in recovering from storm impacts. Our highly trained storm and flood damage cleanup teams are on call to provide 24/7 emergency storm service. Their incredibly fast emergency response time, usually four hours or less, ensures the storm damage is assessed and addressed promptly, giving you the peace of mind that you are well taken care of. This rapid response is crucial in mitigating further damage and beginning the restoration process.

We also have established relationships with all major insurance companies and can assist you with the insurance claim process. Our team will guide you through the process, making it easier for homeowners to navigate the claim process and providing you with the reassurance that you are in good hands.

With the summer storm season often bringing unpredictable weather, having access to reliable storm restoration services can make a significant difference in recovering quickly and efficiently.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business has storm damage, our local team in Oak Lawn is Here to Help. ® Contact us today at 708-239-1444.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Staying Dry When Flood Conditions Are Present | SERVPRO of Oak Lawn

5/20/2024 (Permalink)

Has an unexpected flash flood taken your house by storm? Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn today so we can help get your home back in prime condition.

Suffering from a flood may feel like a situation that isn’t very common, especially in the suburbs of Chicago. However, floods are more common than you think! It doesn’t have to be raining intensely for a flood to happen in the city. 

Even something as simple as a broken water main or a busted pipe can lead to a serious flood situation that must be dealt with right away. 

Knowing what to do if you are faced with the potential of a flood can help keep you safe and dry no matter what situation is occurring. 

Tips for a Flash Flood 

Flash flood warnings can accompany any sort of severe weather situation where flood conditions could impact our community. It doesn’t even have to be raining at the moment for the warning to be issued. In any case, you should start preparing your home right away. 

Tidy up your yard, clear up child’s toys and other yard clutter and tie down anything that could potentially be swept away. Trampolines, propane tanks and patio furniture can all easily be swept away with just a few inches of fast-moving water. 

Get inside and locate your emergency kit. Consider filling up some bottles of fresh water for each member of your family since flood conditions can sometimes impact the safety of the water flowing through your pipes. Stay inside and stay above the water line if the water starts rushing into your home. 

Tips for a Manmade Flood

If your home or business becomes the unfortunate victim of a broken pipe or busted water line, you could find yourself with a basement full of water. Depending on if you are home when the incident begins, you can quickly shut off the connecting water valve to stop the flow of water. 

If you are unfortunately not home when it occurs, you could be faced with a seriously flooded space. 

In any case, do not walk through the water. If you don’t know what caused the water line to burst or you can’t pinpoint exactly what kind of water came out of the pipe, do your best not to touch it. Gray water and black water pipes are also flowing through your home and handling this type of water can make you really sick. Get us on the phone right away!

How We Can Dry Up Your Space 

A quick restoration is essential no matter what kind of flood situation happens on your property. The longer the water sits, the greater the chance that bacteria has started to grow or your home’s structure will suffer more damage. 

Over time, mold can even start growing. We will quickly and expertly remove the excess water, and we can also use our specialized equipment to identify hidden moisture behind your walls. 

Lingering water can also cause widespread damage, so when your home is dry, we will address any necessary repairs. We are experts in drywall repair, floorboard repair and carpet replacement, amongst other restoration needs. Call us day or night for immediate flood restoration assistance. 

Floodwater should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO of Oak Lawn right away. 

Discovered a Puddle? Common Reasons for Water Damage | SERVPRO of Oak Lawn

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage sneaks into our homes when least expected. That's why SERVPRO of Oak Lawn is Here to Help®. Call us today!

How often do you think about the pipes flowing through your home and whether your gutter system needs some TLC? We would imagine that these thoughts don’t pass through your mind on a regular basis. You are busy enough keeping up with your busy family!

However, everything can come grinding to a halt if you come home one day to water all over your kitchen floor or a flooded basement. Knowing where to look when it comes to finding the source of the leak can help you stay in control of the situation. 

Your Trusty Appliances

We use appliances like water heaters, ice makers, fridges and dishwashers on a daily basis, and for the most part, they are reliable machines that help us accomplish our daily tasks. Unfortunately, all it takes is a single malfunction or faulty appliance to cause water to leak out of it and onto your floor.

Check your appliances and the water lines that lead to and from them regularly, and consider pulling them away from the wall to check for puddles or water spots behind each machine. In addition, you should check all the caulk lines and water connections from around tubs, sinks, toilets and showers. Even a single drip could leak gallons of water a day. 

The Force of Mother Nature

Storms can be brutal at any point in the year. The spring and summer seasons can cause heavy rain to fall that can infiltrate our homes, and the winter season can bring intense snowstorms that lead to ice dams, clogged gutters and roof damage. 

Clear out your gutters regularly during the spring and summer, and make sure they are clear again before the snow falls. While snow won’t melt down your gutters in the winter, it will eventually need to in the spring and a single clog or blockage can be disastrous for your home.

Floods can also be destructive and cause significant water damage. If your home is located in a flood zone, professionally grading your yard to slope down and away from your home can help you stay dry no matter what is going on outside. If that is not a possibility, investing in a sump pump can help keep water away as well. 

The Water Damage Restoration Process
Whether your kitchen is flooded due to an overwhelmed dishwasher or the last seasonal storm led to water leaking down your walls, we have you covered. Our team will jump into action to dry out your home and address repairs right away. The longer water sits, the higher the risk for mold growth and long-term structural issues, so we get right to work!

Our industry-leading drying equipment will remove the water while our talented team will fix warped floors, soggy walls and even tackle carpet replacement. We proudly do it all so you can get back to your regular life as soon as possible.

Got water damage? Give SERVPRO of Oak Lawn a call for immediate restoration assistance.