Protect Your Business Against Winter Fire Hazards

12/27/2023 (Permalink)

With everyone eager to stay warm and festive during the winter season, fire risks unfortunately increase due to increased cooking, heating, and electric decorations. Don’t fret–as long as you are careful, you and your workers can safely enjoy the holidays.  Here are some fire safety tips for your business from the team at SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville!

Common Winter Fire Hazards

• Space Heaters: Space heaters are an efficient option when it comes to heating your office space, but they should be used with caution. You should never leave a space heater unattended, and they should never be plugged into an extension cord. If used, space heaters should be kept on a flat surface, far away from paper or other flammable materials, and be monitored during use. 
• Electrical Fires: Defective extension cords, faulty wiring, or overused power sockets are all common culprits of office fires. It is essential to make sure that your office electronics are in peak condition to avoid any sort of overheating or sparks. Feel free to put up holiday lights to decorate your space–just remain sure not to overwhelm extension cords or outlets while doing so! 
• Cooking Fires: Cooking fires are incredibly common in homes, and businesses also face similar risks, particularly ones with office kitchens. It is important not to neglect any devices that are in use in an office as fires can start quickly and spread in these areas. It is wise to continuously check coffee makers, microwaves, and other gadgets for broken wiring.
• Flammable Materials: We get it: businesses can get cluttered, especially during the holiday season, when you are likely fielding more packages than ever. It is important to keep your business tidy though, because cardboard boxes, stacks of paper and clutter are all fire hazards. Store flammable materials in safe areas. If your cleaning needs start to feel insurmountable, SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville  can help with our professional cleaning services!

SERVPRO Commercial Fire Damage Response

• The restoration process begins when you call us. Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us quickly respond with the appropriate equipment and resources. With over 2,190 franchises with equipment and personnel to pull from for aid, no job is too large for SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville.
• Upon arrival we carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage, which helps to develop a plan of action. Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 
• We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. Next, we clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment so you won’t be left with the smell of smoke in your office as a reminder of the fire. 
• Restoration is the final step—getting your business to its pre-fire condition. This work 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. Whatever restoration efforts are needed, you can trust that our team will work with precision and care to get the job done.

SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville can be reached at (615) 242-9391 or via our website for fire damage restoration needs. Fire damage may be scary, but we promise that everything in your business that can be restored will be under our care.

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Exploring SERVPRO's Lesser-Known Commercial Services

12/27/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville prides itself on being there for Nashville commercial businesses during times of need. While you may have reached out to SERVPRO for disaster restoration services before, you may not be aware that you can also call us for other disasters or specific needs. Continue reading to learn more about our lesser-known commercial services!

SERVPRO Commercial Services

• Biohazard: The decontamination of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants, or biohazards, can pose serious health consequences. Specialized training and experience is key when choosing a cleanup company to resolve these circumstances, and SERVPRO is trained to safely remove biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.
• Odor Removal: As experts in deodorization, SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville is trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors in commercial businesses. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.
• Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup:  Vandalism and graffiti can be unsightly and upsetting, so SERVPRO will act quickly to remove it from your commercial spaces. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, we can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry.

General Commercial Services

The above commercial needs are specific, but if you’ve needed to use SERVPRO for any of those reasons before, you actually might not be aware of our more standard commercial services! 

• Cleaning: You don’t have to be facing a disaster to call upon SERVPRO for help. When your cleaning needs go beyond what a janitorial staff can handle, contact SERVPRO for a thorough cleaning service that removes tough stains, dirt, or grease! 
• HVAC Service: If your HVAC system goes without maintenance for a while, it can begin to circulate dust, pollen, and other allergens. Keep yourself, your staff, and your clients healthy and happy by regularly scheduling HVAC inspections with SERVPRO! Keeping your HVAC unit clean is vital in helping to restore peak energy efficiency, eliminating offensive odors, and helping to reduce the potential for mold growth.
• Disaster Restoration: Fire, water and storms can wreak havoc on your Nashville business. As disaster restoration professionals, there aren’t many things we haven’t seen. Should you experience the detrimental effects of a fire, flood, or tornado, we will be on the way to help as soon as we get your call, working to remove water, dry the area, and begin sanitizing and restoring your space as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville can be reached at (615) 242-9391 or via our website for your niche commercial cleaning and restoration needs. We are happy to help you recover from whatever damage your business may have sustained. 

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Mitigating Storm Impact on Your Office with SERVPRO

12/21/2023 (Permalink)

Sometimes, no matter how much you prepare, storm damage can severely impact your office building. Our team at SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville has witnessed the damage of severe winter storms, so we know exactly where to start when it comes to picking up the pieces. Here are some tips on what to do to make the impact of a winter storm less severe–starting with calling SERVPRO, of course! 

What To Do In Case of Storm Damage

• Once you have confirmed that everyone in the office is safe, your top priority is to call SERVPRO. We are disaster restoration experts that can handle problems that are surface level and structural. Our team will be on the move, ready to help as soon as we get your call.
• Do not try to pick up wet belongings or furniture. Objects are much heavier when they are wet, and you may hurt yourself! Slip and fall hazards are also one of the top forms of injury during flooding, so it is best to move with caution throughout your building.
• If you work in an office and experience flooding or storm damage, one of your main concerns is likely preserving documents or computers and other electronic devices. Do not attempt to turn on or operate any electrical device that you suspect has been damaged by water–you could be electrocuted! 

How SERVPRO Restores Essential Office Items 

• When your valuable documents are damaged by water, SERVPRO technicians will use extreme caution to help ensure the water damage does not destroy the document. Although some documents may not be restored to pre-water damage condition, SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville can save a great deal and help minimize additional damage. Depending on the type of documents and the level of water damage, we have five options for the restoration of documents:
• Air Drying
• Dehumidification
• Freezer Drying
• Vacuum Freeze Drying
• Vacuum Thermal Drying
• The key to restoring electronics is taking prompt action to prevent further damage. We start by cleaning the exterior of electronic devices to help stop further corrosion and damage. Electronics will be cleaned and inspected by a qualified electronics technician. Types of electronics we can restore include:
•  Television sets
•  DVD players
•  Computers
•  And more!

SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville can be reached at (615) 242-9391 or via our website for all of your storm damage needs. Commercial restoration is just one quick call away! Keep your office in working order with help from SERVPRO.

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Maintaining Carpets in Your Apartment Complex: Tips and Tricks

12/20/2023 (Permalink)

Apartment complexes experience a good amount of traffic and wear and tear, which will show up the most in your apartment’s flooring. That is why it is important to keep your carpets regularly cleaned so that your apartment complex looks its best. Here are some professional cleaning tips from SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville for your apartment.

Tips For Maintaining Your Apartment’s Carpet

• Clean Regularly: It is a good rule of thumb to keep carpets clean regularly, not just when you can see that they are dirty. If you wait until the carpet is filthy, cleaning it will be much more difficult.
• Use walk-off mats: Mats placed inside and outside entrances can help to keep dirt off the carpeting. Choose water-absorbent mats to prevent wet shoes from further muddying the carpeting.
• Deodorize: Even if your carpet looks clean, it may be harboring some contaminants or dirt that emits odors. If the common areas in your apartment have an unpleasant odor and seem dull even after vacuuming, it may be because your carpet could use a professional clean.

The SERVPRO Commercial Cleaning Difference 

Sometimes, your janitorial staff or cleaning service may not be able to achieve the level of cleanliness that your apartment building needs. That is where SERVPRO comes in. As cleaning professionals, we use technology and scientific methods to leave your apartment building Certified SERVPRO clean.

• Carpet Cleaning: We employ a range of carpet cleaning options, choosing the method best suited for your apartment’s needs.
• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.
• HVAC Cleaning: Our technicians can inspect and clean your HVAC unit. Keeping it clean can extend the life of the equipment and prevent dust, pollen, and other allergens or contaminants from circulating.
• Odor Removal: Masking and other shortcuts don't work when your odor problem is serious or persistent, which is why SERVPRO teaches IICRC technical classes in the proper removal of odors so that they can be removed over time without a trace. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

A clean apartment complex makes for happy tenants and a better sense of home whenever you walk through the doors. SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville understands the significance of these impressions, which is why we offer professional carpet and commercial cleaning services. Call us at (615) 242-9391 to get started on your cleaning journey.

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Is Mold a Winter Worry? Exploring Cold-Weather Mold Concerns

12/13/2023 (Permalink)

Mold growth is usually associated with warm and wet weather. A common misconception is that cold weather kills mold, when in reality the spores may just go dormant, or, depending on the species, continue to grow during winter. SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville is equipped with the tools and knowledge to help stop mold in its tracks. Keep reading to learn more about winter mold risks.

Winter Mold Concerns

• The most common types of winter mold include: Alternaria, Cladosporium, and Penicillium.
• Alternaria: is a type of fungi that thrives in cold temperatures, particularly when moisture is present. It is commonly found in bathrooms, on shower curtains and basement walls.
• Cladosporium: genus includes some of the most common indoor and outdoor mold species that can survive in cold temperatures. The most common ones to find indoors are generally brown to blackish-brown or greenish-gray in color.
• Penicillium: This type of mold is generally found on damp fabric surfaces, such as upholstery or carpets.
• Mold On Windows: Moisture collects on and around windows in the winter through condensation, which happens when warm air hits a cold surface. When the temperature drops during the winter, the warm air in your home deposits as water on the cool glass of windows, leading to moisture buildup. Keeping these areas clean and dry are important to stop mold growth. 
• Snow Mold: If it snows and white, gray, or pink patches remain in your yard after the snow melts, this may be a sign of snow mold, a type of lawn disease that can be treated with proper care.

Preventing Winter Mold Growth

If you spot mold in your Nashville home or business, your first step should be to call SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville for mold remediation. Mold isn’t just unsightly, it can cause many health problems and should be treated by professionals. Here are some tips to prevent mold from growing in the first place:

• Try to keep humidity below 50% throughout your home to not encourage mold growth.
• Inspect pipes for leaks regularly and fix faulty plumbing to prevent moisture from collecting.
• Use mold-killing cleaners in bathrooms and areas of your kitchen where moisture can collect. 
• Avoid having carpets or rugs near windows, sinks, or other places that tend to become wet.
• Always use a ventilation fan during showers or baths.
• Clean your gutters regularly to prevent moisture from building up on collected debris.
• Keep your home or business clutter free and get rid of old recycled material, newspapers, and any upholstery or fabric that has been exposed to moisture.

Our SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville team believes that staying informed about potential hazards to your home can help you in the long run. Should you encounter mold, don’t fret! As experts in mold remediation, we will address the issue and make sure that your property is safe and sound once more. Call us at (615) 242-9391 or via our website. 

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

The Importance of Swift Action in Response to Water Damage

12/13/2023 (Permalink)

Our technicians at SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville have worked on numerous water damage restoration projects, and a common theme is that acting fast can make all the difference during restoration. If you should unfortunately experience water damage to your Nashville property, it is imperative that you reach out for aid from SERVPRO immediately. Let’s discuss why swift action is so important when it comes to water damage.

The Importance of Fast Action After Water Damage 

• Secondary Damage: If water damage is not treated quickly, it can cause further, severe structural damage to your property. Drywall, ceilings, and flooring may all need to be replaced if water damage is not treated within 24 hours.
• Mold Growth: Mold and mildew can form within hours of moisture exposure. Mold can cause numerous respiratory problems and other health issues, so it is paramount to act quickly to prevent mold from growing. 
• Preserving Belongings: SERVPRO technicians work diligently to restore your property and treasured belongings after water damage, but you stand a much better chance of recovering your personal items if you call SERVPRO as soon as you spot water damage so we can stop the source of water and prevent the problem from spreading,

SERVPRO Water Damage Restoration

• Assessment: As soon as our technicians receive your call, we will be on the way to you. We determine the scope of your water damage upon arrival and determine how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.
• Water Removal & Drying: The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property and then use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. 
• Cleaning & Restoration: We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water, making sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize the area along the way. Restoration is the final step, and may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or major ones, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. Whatever services are required for restoration, we will go above and beyond to provide them.

Water damage can be overwhelming, but with SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville available 24/7 at (615) 242-9391, you don’t have to worry for long. Our SERVPRO technicians will be on the way, ready to help as soon as we get your call. SERVPRO. Like it never even happened.

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Shield Your Office Building from Storm Damage

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

Winter storms can be detrimental to your business. Our technicians at SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville have seen the damage that Nashville storms can inflict, which is why we want you to be as prepared as possible for inclement weather should it strike. Here are some storm-proofing tips that can make all the difference in case of severe weather.

Storm Damage Prevention Tips

• Invest in storm proofing: If your business is based in Nashville, it may be wise–and worth your money–to invest in storm protection. Tornadoes are very common in the area, and the occasional severe rainstorm can wreak havoc. Storm-proof windows are always a good investment, and you may consider inspecting your building every so often to make sure there are no structural issues or cracks in exterior walls. 
• Check insurance policies: Your insurance coverage can be a gamechanger should you need restoration or repair work done. Not all insurance policies cover each type of severe weather event, or flooding, so it is wise to review your office buildings policies and expand your coverage as needed. 
• Stay on top of regular maintenance: should disaster strike, you don't want to wish you had taken better care of your business when it is already too late. Even regular maintenance can help prevent damage during a storm. Keeping your gutters clean will prevent water from being directed towards your building, and addressing faulty plumbing or HVAC units will prevent other issues from arising all at once.

What To Do In Case of Storm Damage

Even if you are prepared, storm damage may be inevitable. Here are some tips for keeping calm and staying safe if a storm affects your business.

• As soon as you and everyone in the office is safe, your top priority is to call SERVPRO. We are disaster restoration experts that can handle unforeseen problems caused by high winds and torrential rain; there isn't much we haven't seen. Our team will be on the move, ready to help as soon as we get your call.
• Do not try to pick up wet belongings or furniture. Things are much heavier when they are wet, and you may hurt yourself! Slip and fall hazards are also one of the top forms of injury during flooding, so it is best to move with caution throughout your building.
• In an office, one of your main concerns is likely preserving documents or computers and other electronic devices. Did you know that SERVPRO can help with restoring these important documents, devices, and more? Working from a restore vs. replace approach, our technicians will work to get your office back to normal after storm damage. Everything we can possibly restore will be restored.

SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville can be reached at (615) 242-9391 or via our website for all of your storm damage needs. Commercial restoration doesn't have to be a hassle when you have SERVPRO on your side.

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Cold-Weather Fire Risks Your Business Should Be Aware Of

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

Heating, sweaters, and cheery decor are all integral parts of the winter season. It is essential to keep warm during the colder months, and who doesn't enjoy lovely holiday decorations? Unfortunately, these elements of winter lifestyles can pose a fire threat to your business if not maintained properly. Keep reading for more information!

Commercial Fire Damage Risks For Winter

• Space Heaters: Space heaters can quickly warm up a room, but they should be used with caution. Never leave one unattended, and do not plug anything else into the same outlet as the heater. Make sure it is on a flat surface and keep flammable materials far away.
• Cooking: Cooking fires are incredibly common in homes, and businesses also face similar risks, particularly ones with office kitchens. It is important not to neglect any devices that are in use in an office, and also continuously check coffee makers, microwaves, and other gadgets for broken wiring.
• Electrical Fires: Defective extension cords, faulty wiring, or overused power sockets are all common culprits of office fires. It is essential to make sure that your office electronics are in peak condition to avoid any sort of overheating or sparks.If you are putting up holiday lights, be sure you are not overwhelming the power sockets in your area.
• Flammable Materials: Cardboard boxes, stacks of paper and clutter can pose fire risks. It is wise to keep a tidy office area and store flammable materials in safe, orderly areas. Do your cleaning needs go beyond what a janitorial staff can handle? Contact SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville for professional cleaning services!

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Fire damage can be tough to handle. That’s why SERVPRO is just a call away for restoration aid. Here is a breakdown of our fire damage restoration process:

• Water Removal: Water used to put out fires by fire fighters or sprinkler systems can cause secondary damage if not dried quickly. We begin our restoration process by assessing the damage and drying the affected area using vacuums, dehumidifiers and air movers. 
• Smoke and Soot Cleaning: Inhaling smoke and soot is dangerous for your health, so all traces must be eliminated to ensure your business is safe to operate again. We use specialized equipment to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 
• Odor Removal: The smell of smoke can permeate buildings after a fire, leaving an unpleasant reminder of every time you walk through the door if not addressed. SERVPRO has the technology to not mask odors but extract them at the source, eliminating them completely.
• Fire Damage Restoration: After a fire, all you want is for your business to look and operate as normal. At SERVPRO, we operate on a restore vs. replace approach to get you up and running as smoothly and cost effectively as possible. Trust that no commercial building or disaster is too big for SERVPRO to handle. 

Our SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville team can be reached at (615) 242-9391 or via our website for all of your commercial fire damage needs. With 2,170 franchises available to access all over the country, no commercial job is too large for us to handle. SERVPRO. Like it never even happened.

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Maximizing Business Potential with SERVPRO's Large Format Equipment

11/29/2023 (Permalink)

If you have a commercial business, you know that it takes a lot of work to keep a business going. A lot of moving parts come together to make your workflow run smoothly. Have you ever considered that SERVPRO could help with your everyday operations? Keep reading to learn how SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville can help with your business!

SERVPRO Commercial Offerings

• Cleaning: When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, our team can step in and offer commercial cleaning that goes above and beyond. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look and feel its best.
• Commercial Building Services: Are you in need of repairs from storm, water, or fire damage or just need help with restoration services after experiencing normal wear and tear? Here are just a few of the restoration services that SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville has the staff and equipment to help with:
• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Drywall Installation/Drywall Removal
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Portable Power
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Warehouse 
• Tree Removal

The SERVPRO Difference

• Professionalism: Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your commercial property.
• Rapid Response: SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can expect an immediate response from SERVPRO, day or night.
• Extensive Resources: The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster. We can pull resources from our over 2100 franchises to help get your restoration or moving job done!

SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville is here to help with your commercial building needs. Call (615) 242-9391 or visit our website for more information about our commercial services and how they can be tailored to address your concerns. Your business is in good hands when SERVPRO is on your side!

This franchise is independently owned and operated.

Ensure a Leak-Free Winter for Your Hotel's Plumbing

11/29/2023 (Permalink)

Wintertime can be a magical time, but also be chaotic, especially for those working in the hospitality sector. With holiday events to accommodate, you need to keep your hotel safe and ensure everything is operating well for the new year.  Keep reading for tips to avoid leaks and flooding this winter from SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville. 

Precautionary Tips For Winter

• Cover and Warm Pipes: When the weather gets colder, it is important to cover and insulate all pipes, ensuring that your sprinkler systems stay warm enough. Wet fire sprinkler systems are of high risk for rupturing. In the case of bursting pipes, all staff members should know where both the main water shutoff and fire sprinkler valves are located. It is a good idea to leave water running on a slow drip if it is near exterior walls.

• Seal Cracks And Gaps: Burst pipes are not the only way your hotel may flood during the winter. Water from storms or melted snow or ice can leak into your hotel through cracks in the walls and windows. It is important to survey your hotel for any signs of damage and address them before severe weather strikes.

• Insurance: It is always a good idea to have your hotel insured in case of disaster. You should be sure that your commercial insurance policy covers water damage caused by burst or leaking plumbing, and also consider a separate flood insurance policy for added protection. 

Other Care Tips To Keep Your  Hotel Running Smoothly

• Clear Fire Safety Instructions: Keeping clear and detailed fire escape maps in each hotel room is paramount, and it is also important to consistently run drills with staff to make sure they are up to date on hotel fire safety protocol.
• Keep Electronic Devices Updated: Old or malfunctioning appliances in hotel rooms can be fire hazards. Have staff check and maintain these devices so that guests do not accidentally set off a fire.
• Keep Hallways and Doorways Clear: No matter the type of disaster you may experience, having an easily accessible and clearly designated exits will help keep guests and staff safe. Debris or trash should be moved from exit doors in order to ensure everyone's safety.
• Informed Staff: Running flood or fire drills with your staff is a great way to make sure everyone is informed and confident during an emergency. Safety should be everyone's top priority during a disaster: leave the cleanup and restoration to SERVPRO of Belle Meade/West Nashville. 

SERVPRO Belle Meade/West Nashville has the equipment, workers, and experience to handle any job, no matter the size. If your hotel floods due to burst pipes, know that you can call us at (615) 242-9391, and our experienced technicians will be on the way to help! 

This franchise is independently owned and operated.