Should You Get Your Overland/Cool Valley Home Tested For Mold?

5/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is here to help with mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is here to help with mold remediation.

When is time to get a sample for mold? If visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary.

Surface sampling may be useful to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in designing mold sampling protocols, sampling methods and interpreting results.

Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations.

Are there federal regulations or standards regarding mold testing?

Standards or Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) for airborne concentrations of mold, or mold spores, have not been set. Currently, there are no EPA regulations or standards for airborne mold contaminants.

Understanding Mold

When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic, 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 that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

The Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Learn more about our mold remediation process.

1. Emergency Contact - (314) 949-7824
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings

Protect Your Home From Water Damage | SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley

5/25/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley for water damage restoration.

There are many ways to help protect your Overland/Cool Valley home from water damage. Water losses occur when water finds its way outside of the appliances you rely on to run your household’s daily needs. When we think about the causes of severe water damage to our homes, we usually think about extreme weather like a hurricane or torrential rains. But the unfortunate reality is that extensive damage is often the result of ordinary household plumbing systems and appliances that fail – and these can be just as destructive to your home as an extreme weather event.

Preventative Measures

Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to help prevent water damage from plumbing problem in your Overland/Cool Valley home. It is helpful to understand some of the common causes of water damage.

These may include:

• Heating and air-conditioning systems

• Water heaters

• Valves

• Appliances

• Pipes and plumbing fixtures

How to Detect Water Damages

Water damage can often go undetected, even if the telltale signs are there. Plumbing that is housed inside the walls of your home, in less-trafficked areas like a basement or attic, or behind a cabinet or appliance, can easily go unnoticed. That’s why it’s important to check your appliances and plumbing from time to time.

• Know where the main water supply enters your home, locate the main shut-off valve and make sure it’s functioning properly.
• If you will be away from home for an extended period, consider shutting off the water supply, but consult with a heating professional first to understand if doing so will compromise any other systems in your home. Maintain a temperature of at least 55 degrees in your home. Also, if your home is protected by a fire sprinkler system, do not turn off the water to this system, and maintain sufficient heat to prevent a freeze-up.
• Consider having your air-conditioning system inspected regularly by a professional. Check around the unit for indications of leaks. Check the drain lines annually and clean them if they are clogged. Change the air filter annually at a minimum.
• Inspect water heaters, showers, tubs, toilets, sinks, dishwashers, refrigerators and washing machines annually, and have them repaired if there are signs of leaks or corrosion. Be sure to include supply lines, hoses, connections and fittings in the inspection.
• Check caulking around showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilet bases, and make repairs as needed.
• If your refrigerator has an ice machine or water dispenser, check the hose between the wall and the refrigerator to determine if it is pinched or stressed. Also look for signs of leaking or wear and tear.
• Check exposed plumbing (pipes, valves, etc.) for signs of leaking or corrosion. Have any pipe damage fixed immediately to prevent more costly repairs in the future.

For any questions or concerns about water damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley at (314) 949-7824. 

Water damage due to a plumbing issue in your home can be life-changing. But there are some common signs that homeowners can look for, and steps they can take, to help avoid a major water issue at home.

Consider this example:

A homeowner and his family head off for a three-week vacation. While they’re away, a minor toilet leak grows, until it reaches a pace of three gallons of water per minute. By the time the homeowners returned from their three-week vacation, the unaddressed leak had poured more than 30,000 gallons of water into their home. The water ruined furniture, fixtures and irreplaceable family valuables, and rendered the property virtually uninhabitable for an extended period of time.

But this is just a cautionary tale. The following guidance is meant to help you learn about the potential water issues from common plumbing problems and how you can take steps to help prevent disaster.

Causes For Plumbing Problems

Plumbing issues can occur anywhere in your home. Frequently, lack of maintenance is the root cause of these problems. However, other causes can include:

• Manufacturing and design defects.
• Installation errors.
• Exposure to cleaning products (for example, by storing chemicals under the sink or by cleaning surfaces of plumbing components).

If caught early, many plumbing problems can be addressed before serious damage occurs. For this reason, regular inspection of your home’s visible plumbing parts can be critical. Knowing the lifespan of parts and appliances is also important, as is properly maintaining the other parts of your home and its features and systems.

Signs to Look For

Want to help prevent plumbing complications from damaging your home and potentially resulting in expensive property damage or loss? Start by visually inspecting your plumbing on a regular basis. Look for drips and slow leaks. Be sure to check the areas surrounding your pipes as well. If you see water damage on cabinetry or other nearby materials, there may be an active leak that you’ll want to locate.

Your entire home plumbing system may not be visible, but there are certain places in your home where you can readily inspect plumbing components:

• Under sinks and washtubs.
• Inside access panels near showers, sinks or appliances.
• Attachments to toilets, water heaters and appliances.
• Basements and crawl spaces.

You will want to look at any piping, valves and fittings in the areas listed above. Leaks are most common at connection points, so pay close attention to the plumbing connections on faucets, washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, water filtration systems, shut-off valves and toilets. Your home’s piping system may also have multiple connections between various sections of pipe. Appliances and fixtures themselves can cause problems, so be sure to inspect those as well, and keep up with any regular maintenance recommended by the manufacturer.

The signs of a problem will vary by component. For example, problems in copper piping may look very different from problems in PEX, a common type of plastic piping. In general, you want to look for signs of corrosion, cracking, hazing, discoloration and mineral deposits from a water leak.

For any questions or concerns about water damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley at (314) 949-7824. 

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley Commercial Restoration Services

5/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley helps with all your commercial restoration service needs.

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley offers many different services that we offer for commercial properties. We understand that it is difficult at times to schedule services during business hours, so we can work with you to find a time that best fits you and your company's needs.

If needed we can work in one section at a time in order to keep your business open while we work, or we can attempt to schedule it before or after business hours. 

In addition to our emergency water, fire, and storm clean up services we also offer many other cleaning services. These include, but are not limited to:  

• Air Ducts and HVAC 
• Biohazard 
• Carpet and Upholstery 
• Ceilings, Floors, and Walls 
• Drapes and Blinds 
• Odor Removal 
• Sewage 
• Trauma and Crime Scene 
• Vandalism 

FIRE DAMAGE 

The faster SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley arrives on-site to perform fire, smoke, and soot cleanup and restoration, the better the results— including lower claim costs.

Within four hours of a loss notification (and usually much earlier), we will be on-site to help ensure a fire damage is handled properly by utilizing the following services:

Structural Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO® will pretest to determine the extent of damage, then use the specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found within the structure.

Contents Cleaning

All the restorable contents in the affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. SERVPRO can provide wet or dry-cleaning services. Additionally, all other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more. Finally, we can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items.

Deodorization

We provide specialized services that rid your insured’s home or place of business of offensive odors left behind by fire or smoke damage. We do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance; we seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.  

WATER DAMAGE

If you have recently become a victim of commercial water damage, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.

Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration

Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.

Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.

Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored. If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use your washing machine to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present.

Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.

If you would like more information on any of the services listed above, please call SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley at (314) 949-7824.

Working With SERVPRO Means You’re in Capable Hands | SERVPRO® of Overland/Cool Valley

4/3/2023 (Permalink)

Whether it’s to stay on trend or improve security, the changes you make in your Overland home are essential. Some decisions, such as new flooring, can be simple, but others, such as locating a qualified restoration team to care for your home after a fire, can be daunting.

When faced with destruction, the last thing you want is for a careless restoration crew to arrive and make matters worse. You need a team that will ensure professionalism from start to finish so you can get back to enjoying your cozy home!

Choosing SERVPRO means you've chosen the best in the business. We arrive at the scene with the extensive training and certifications needed to carry out a competent and secure restoration job.

We Adhere to Industry Trainings

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley complies to the IICRC standards, and our experts adhere to the restoration and clean-up instruction and standards. These are just a few of the essential courses we provide:

• water damage restoration
• fire damage restoration
• mold remediation
• carpet and upholstery and cleaning

We also encourage our employees to complete Employee Certification Training to guarantee they are ready to handle disasters of all sizes. These courses are self-paced, giving our experts time to fully comprehend the information and guidelines.

We Never Stop Learning

We provide continuing education courses and e-learning lessons to our staff after they have finished their preliminary instruction to guarantee that they can handle anything disaster throws their way.

Our qualified staff members are passionate about making sure we have the expertise and tools available to help every Overland homeowner return to normal after a residential calamity—and our training plays a huge role in this.

We make changes to our procedures as needed to stay current and informed of the most recent data and technologies. Keeping up with constantly changing technology ensures that we arrive at any household emergency fully prepared.

Why This Matters for You

There are so many perks that come with trusting in our expert SERVPRO squad! We will work tirelessly from start to finish to execute a restoration that will return your home to its pre-damage condition.

Choosing an incompetent or unprepared team to handle your residential repairs is a risky move that could leave you with a worse problem than you started with. By contacting SERVPRO for all of your restoration needs, you can avoid any unwelcome upsets

When you need help recovering from a disaster, SERVPRO is here for you. Get in touch 24/7 to start your disaster recovery.

3 Questions to Steer You Toward a Reputable Service Company | SERVPRO® of Overland/Cool Valley

11/20/2021 (Permalink)

You can rest easy knowing you've got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley.

Sometimes you have to make decisions that require a great amount of trust. Sometimes you have to make decisions that require a great deal of speed. And sometimes you have to make decisions that require both.

When a disaster does damage at home, you have to execute some quick but critical thinking as you find a company to trust with the repair of your home and the restoration or recovery of your property.

It helps if you know what to look for, so we’ve come up with a few questions that will help guide you in the right direction. Ask these of any prospective service companies.

Are They Legit?

There’s nothing so sad or frustrating as seeing scammers with phony credentials, shoddy workmanship and no local roots come in and take advantage of homeowners reeling from a natural disaster or destructive scenario. When your precious home is at stake, you want to know you’re dealing with a team you can trust, that isn’t going to leave town without finishing everything they promised.

When you reach out to SERVPRO, you know exactly what you’re getting—and industry-leading, top-tier restoration service from real St. Louis County experts who know what’s necessary, what works and what doesn’t. And you can lean on the reputation of a company relied on by no less than the PGA Tour to maintain and clean up facilities in need of recovery.

Will They Be There When I Need Help?

We don’t take days off as a business, because we know pipes burst and fires start at unpredictable times—so whenever you contact us, we’ll be available.

You can get emergency help 24 hours a day—why would you want to wait? Restoration that starts quickly is more likely to reach maximum effectiveness.

Where’s a Fleet When You Need One?

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is owned and operated right here in the neighborhood, which means fast service from local experts.

But if things get thick and extra hands or tools are needed, we’ve got backup—the national squad of SERVPRO franchises is at the ready to provide assistance, tools and resources to make sure even the biggest cleanups get taken care of without attention to your home’s specific needs being diminished.

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

Serious Solutions for Commercial Cleaning | SERVPRO® of Overland/Cool Valley

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready to have the cleanest business in town? Contact SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley for all your cleaning needs

St. Louis County homeowners trust SERVPRO with their recovery from disasters ranging from fire to flood to mold and more, and many business owners similarly lean on us when they need restoration of everything from drywall to documents.

But customer-conscious business owners can avail themselves of another impressive line of service from the pros in green, even when waters are calm: top-notch commercial sanitation and cleaning.

Commercial Services for Businesses of Any Size

It’s in the forefront of every wise business owner’s mind to provide environments in which customers, teams and patrons feel safe and considered—in fact, it’s an absolute must in the modern business model. That’s why we’ve got custom cleaning solutions for businesses of every stripe including:

Shops and retail centers. Customer comfort breeds customer loyalty, and we can provide it in the area of sanitation, no matter if you’re managing a big box store or a corner boutique.

Schools, educational facilities and athletic stadiums. Regular cleaning by students and faculty is proving ineffective against half the bacteria that lives on desks and other high-touch classroom areas. We can provide the next level of cleaning, to ensure that students, teachers and administrators are set up for safety.

Healthcare facilities and nursing homes. Hospitals absolutely require the highest level of attention to cleanliness, and we’ll make sure every pertinent surface is sanitized, cleaned and free of bacteria that could complicate the lives of patients, seniors and other at-risk groups.

Hotels, casinos and convention centers. High-traffic venues like resorts and hotels need extra care when it comes to sanitation, and we’ll help ensure a hygienic environment for all the fun and business that goes on in your hospitality space.

Restaurants and foodservice. Sanitation is at a premium when it comes to the handling, processing, distribution and preparation of food, and we can make sure all relevant areas, machines and surfaces get the scrubbing they need to provide a safe transport or guest experience.

Property management and business parks. When you’ve got tenants, you need to provide clean spaces conducive to healthy living or commercial enterprise, and we can keep you on track to focus on big-picture issues by taking cleaning off your hands.

Sick days and slow productivity cost U.S. business $260 billion per year. Letting SERVPRO kick your cleaning game up a few notches can keep your teams, tenants, students and patients safer and healthier, while letting everyone involved with your commercial space know that their safety is a priority to you.

When you’re ready to have the cleanest business in town, we’re ready to help. Contact your local SERVPRO to get the pros working on the cleaning so you can work on the work.

Make Sure Your Fall Is Fire-Safe | SERVPRO® of Overland/Cool Valley

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Be mindful about the fall fire safety. Always remember that SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is the trusted leader in the restoration industry.

Temperatures are finally dropping, local trees are showing off their array of colors and the Tigers are back on the field on Saturdays. That can only mean that fall is finally here.

The season beloved by so many as the perfect time for camping, hiking and of course the beginning of spooky season is full of fun—but remember as you camp, celebrate or decorate that fire safety should always play a part. Let’s review a few things you’ll want to note.

Campfire Safety

The cooler temperatures of autumn make camping ideal, but it’s vitally important that you know how to properly and safely build and extinguish any campfires you create. So before you break out the s’mores…

Start your fire safely away from any buildings or tents—at least 25 feet. Stick to the tried-and-true method of kindling and matches or a lighter; never use an accelerant like kerosene or lighter fluid because they can cause a fire to get out of hand quickly.

The tiniest ember can reignite or be blown away by a stiff breeze, creating the risk of wildfire with any unattended flame. Don’t walk away until your fire is safely doused with water, down to the very last ember. When the ash is cool to the touch, you’re cool to head out.

Leaf Burning

Burning of leaves in Overland is actually illegal, but certain unincorporated St. Louis County areas do allow open burning with proper permits and supervision.

Any leaf burning should be done at least 50 feet from the home, in an open area and in a burn barrel if one is available. Anything besides organic, non-processed material is prohibited—this includes building wood and household trash.

Halloween

Always be respectful of the potential fire danger from candles. Any decorations or flammable material should be kept three feet from a flame, and nothing should hang over a candle.

Consider electric tea lights for jack-o-lanterns as well. Hanging lights can also create a hazard, so use them sparingly, avoid using extension cords and unplug them anytime you’re not using them.

If a fire hazard should turn from potential to reality in your home, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry and contact SERVPRO to get your property fully restored right down to the smell of smoke.

What's Causing Home Fires?

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley are here for you if your home is affected by fire.

Fires at home are still a problem, despite years, nay decades, of constant education, advances in technology and regular ad campaigns to try and help us put them to an end. You’d think with so much invested in our homes, and their centrality in our daily lives, we’d be doing more to protect them.

Yet somehow a quarter of all reported fires, and more than 75% of all civilian fire fatalities happen in the home.

How can it be that one out of every four fires starts at home? Let’s look at what’s causing these fires, and the specific things making them spark.

Cooking. This is by far the leading cause of home fires and injuries (but interestingly, not fatalities). Some 49% of all home fires start in the kitchen, and the No. 1 reason is unattended cooking. That’s right, the single best thing you can do to avoid a fire at home? Pay attention while you cook.

Heating equipment. Approximately 14% of all house fires in the U.S. begin with heaters. Portable space heaters lead the charge, aided by equipment malfunctions and fires that start because clothing or furniture are left too close to heating elements.

Electrical fires. Modern homes use a lot of electricity, and some older homes don’t have wiring systems equipped to handle it. This leads to short circuits and overloads. Other causes include excess use of extension cords, over-powering lighting elements, faulty wiring, loose outlets and more.

Intentional fires. It’s hard to imagine, but there are some 28,000 intentional home fires each year in the United States. These are fires that began with the intention of burning something, not simply fires set for some other reason that got out of hand.

Smoking materials. Anytime you’re dealing with hot ash or combustible materials indoors, you run the risk of fire. Cigarettes and smoking paraphernalia are often left burning as individuals fall asleep, leading to 5% of home fires, and sadly, almost a quarter of all civilian home fire casualties.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley - 314-279-5600 to see how we can help.

Be Prepared: Locate Your Water Shut Off Valve

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Be Prepared BEFORE Disaster Strikes!!

Water gushing uncontrollably through your house or business is hazardous, unsafe, and will quickly cause major flood damage. If that water is coming from your home's own water supply, and not from outside sources, you can and should shut it down very fast. NOW is the time to locate your Water Shut Off Valve. Once found, make this known to all family members as they may be home alone when disaster strikes! Our office offers FREE Shut Off Tags that you can place as a reminder to all. The quicker the water supply is shut off the less damage to your home or business.

Three Ways to Quickly Locate the Water Shut Off Valve

Find the Water Shut Off Valve on the Inside Perimeter

The first step is to physically search for your house's main water shut off valve on the inside of the home. Typically, it will be located on the perimeter of the house since that is where the water first enters your house. Also, stay on the side of the house that is facing the street. Your water main begins at the street and heads in a straight line to your home. When you find the valve, turn the handle or knife-style valve.

Find the Shut Off Valve on Your Property Inspection Report

If you still cannot find the cut off valve after physically searching for it, one alternative is to check the property inspection report that was completed for you when you were in the final phases of purchasing your home. Look in the plumbing section of the report. This section should locate the shut-off valve for you and have a photo of the valve. Even if the water system was not defective at the time of the property inspection report, the report should still note the locate the shut-off valve as a matter of course.

Find the StreetSide Shut Off Valve

If the previous methods fail, there is another valve located at the beginning of your water main, at the boundary line of your property and the street or sidewalk. Find the ground-level metal or plastic utility box trap door located at ground level. Call the water company's 24-hour emergency contact line. Staff may direct you to shut off the valve by yourself or to wait for an emergency dispatch team. 

Call our office at 314-279-5600 or email us at office@sevprokirkwood.com to request your FREE Shut Off Tag!!! #SERVPROOVERLANDCOOLVALLEY

Team of over 1700 franchises nationwide

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage

Size is not always an indicator of strength; but when you are a restoration company with the resources of over 1,700 franchises- size matters.

At SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley we are equipped to handle a loss of any size. But the question always comes into play, what happens when there are multiple losses.

Typically, we see this scenario play out during natural disasters or major storms. The benefit that we have at SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is not only do we have the capacity to produce any size loss; but we can combine our strength with a large network of other SERVPROs nationwide that can provide assistance and extra equipment.

At SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley not only do you get the local franchise, but you also get the strength of one of the nation’s largest restoration company. In the last few years, we have been fortunate to have the network of SERVPRO’s to provide us more equipment and PPE during nationwide shortages.

If you have experienced fire or water damage, we are always here to help! Call us 314-279-5600 so we can address your damages quickly.

Smoke and Soot Damage

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in St. Ann, MO

Smoke and soot from a fire is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home or business causing hidden damage and odor. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley’s 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 Overland/Cool Valley 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.  The professionals at SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley 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 SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley – 314-279-5600

EPA Compliance Advisory on Product Claims

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

The U.S. EPA recently issued a Compliance Advisory titled “What You Need to Know Regarding Products Making Claims to Kill the Coronavirus Causing COVID-19”. 

The purpose of the Compliance Advisory is to address concerns related to products being used to disinfect surfaces which include claims to kill and/or be effective against SARS-CoV-2, the
coronavirus causing the disease COVID-19. For some of these products, those claims have not been reviewed or accepted by EPA and, therefore, may present a risk to consumers, and healthcare
providers in particular.

The EPA uses the following very strong language that is helpful in advising our clients and
customers regarding the increasing number of new age products and methods that are being pitched with dubious efficacy and other claims in connection with COVID-19, and challenging the use of those questionable products and methods in the marketplace:

It is unlawful for any person to distribute or sell a pesticide in the United States making claims
to that it will kill a particular pathogen, unless that pesticide is registered with EPA and that
particular claim has been deemed acceptable by the agency. The EPA is receiving a steady stream of tips/complaints concerning potentially false or misleading claims, including efficacy claims,
associated with pesticides and devices. These tips/complaints are being actively reviewed and
efforts are being made to identify potentially violative products. The EPA intends to pursue
enforcement against products making false and misleading claims regarding coronavirus. The EPA is working with e-commerce platforms to remove/prohibit these fraudulent and/or otherwise inefficacious products from the marketplace. The EPA is also coordinating with the U.S. Department of Justice and other federal partners to bring the full force of the law against those selling or otherwise distributing violative products.

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley consistently uses only SERVPRO approved cleaning and disinfecting products and methodologies to help combat the COVID-19 crisis. We are always here to help. 314-279-5600

Fire Safety Education

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

You may know what to do during a fire, but do your children? SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley has faced countless losses in homes and businesses due to fire damage so we want families to be prepared. It is important to make sure your children are educated on fire safety. You never want to leave your children home alone without the proper fire safety education and since you can't predict a fire emergency, fire safety education is key. Here are some important items to remember: 

Make sure that you educate your children on what a smoke alarm looks and sounds like. Make sure they can recognize when a fire alarm has gone off and what to do when an alarm has sound. Know two or more routes to exit your home during a fire as well as a meeting point away from the location a safe distance from the fire. The American Red Cross suggests "Practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year and at different times of the day. Practice waking up to smoke alarms, low crawling, and meeting outside." It is crucial your children also know how to dial 9-1-1. 

When making sure your home is up to fire safety standards, make sure to have escape ladders on the upper levels so that you can escape from windows to safety. The American Red Cross also suggests "use quick-release devices on barred windows and doors. Security bars without release devices can trap you in a deadly fire. If you have security bars on your windows, be sure one window in each sleeping room has a release device." It is important to make your children aware of which windows have quick releases on them and how to use them properly. Also have fire extinguishers readily available, and up-to-date and, at minimum, in the kitchen, garage and on the upper levels. 

It is never too soon to start teaching your children how to be prepared during an emergency, including fires, as they often occur in the home. SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley is open 24/7 in case a disaster strikes. We are dedicated to helping restore your residence to pre-disaster conditions, making it “Like it never even happened.” 314-279-5600

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we are all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we have developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we are offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you have selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We have cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you will be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.We are Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities, we all call home. 
• Call SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley today at 314-279-5600 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.
• Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

What's Safe to Flush or Drain?

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

What’s Safe to Flush or Drain?

Disposing of the wrong items in a toilet or drain can cause blockages and slow drainage, flooding, and hazardous sewage back-ups into your home or yard. Fixing them can require costly and disruptive repairs for you and contributes to sewer rate increases for the whole community. Don’t let your hard-earned money go down the drain. Follow these guidelines at home and work.

The sewer pipes that serve the toilet, shower, bath, sinks, washing machine, and floor drains in your home or business are designed to carry only three things: human body waste, toilet paper, and wastewater. When other items are put down the drain, they can combine to cause clogs, put additional stress on the pipes, or get caught up in our wastewater treatment facilities. This material then needs to be trucked to a landfill, causing extra work and expense, and higher rates for customers.

Don't Flush or Drain (Just to name a few!)

• Bones
• Bread Dough
• Butter
• Coffee Grounds
• Eggshells
• Gravy
• Paper Towels
• Rubber Bands
• Tampons
• Wet Wipes

 DO

• Place a wastebasket in your bathroom for disposing non-flushable items.
• Place liquid cooking fats, oil and grease into a container with a lid and dispose of in trash.
• Wipe down greasy pots, pans and dishes before washing.
• Have your sewer rodded or snaked regularly.
• Dispose of old medicines or drugs at an approved drug take-back site or event.
• Dispose of motor oil, paint, grease or other dangerous fluids at the St. Louis Household Hazardous Waste collection facility. 

If your home or business sustains a backup we are here to help 24/7/365 days!!! Call SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley 314-279-5600

Sewer Lines

5/7/2020 (Permalink)

A Guide to Your Private Sewer Line

What is a lateral line?

The lateral line connects your home or building to the public sewer system. Wastewater from your sinks, showers, toilets, dishwashers and washing machines flows through the lateral line to the public sewer system.

Who is responsible for maintaining and repairing the lateral line?

The lateral line, including connection, is private property. It is the property owners’ responsibility to maintain and repair the lateral line.

It’s important to keep the lateral line clear of obstructions and in good repair. This will greatly reduce the risk of blockages, clogs and water backups.

What causes lateral lines to become blocked or obstructed?

Lateral lines can be blocked or obstructed by items flushed down the toilet or washed down the drain, as well as tree roots, grease, and other obstructions.

How do I know if my lateral line is blocked or damaged?

Some signs that your lateral is blocked or damaged include slow draining, water pooling around the basement floor drains, sewage smell inside or outside the building, wastewater leaking from cleanouts, and wet ground in your yard.

Will insurance cover repairs to the lateral line?

Most homeowners’/business owners’ insurance policies do not cover damages caused by a problem with the lateral line. You should verify coverage with your insurance agent.

Many area municipalities offer lateral line insurance for their residents. This insurance helps offset the cost of repairing lateral lines. Please verify all information by contacting your municipality.

How do I get the lateral line repaired?

If you do not qualify for a municipal lateral line insurance program, then you should contact a licensed professional plumber.

How do I maintain the lateral line?

• Have the lateral line inspected and cleaned annually by a licensed plumber.

• Do not plant trees or large shrubs near the lateral line. Roots can enter the lateral line and cause a blockage. If roots enter your lateral line, call a license plumber to clear the line.

• Do not pour grease down the sink. When grease cools, it can build up in the lateral line and cause a blockage.

• Do not flush diapers, feminine hygiene products or other non toilet paper materials down the toilet. These items can block the lateral line.

• In some areas, downspouts are connected to the lateral line. Debris from the roof can wash into the gutters and eventually reach the lateral line. Keep gutters clean to keep debris from blocking the lateral line.

• Repair or replace damaged lateral lines as soon as possible.

If your home or business experiences water damage we are always here to help at SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley 314-279-5600.

Xtreme Heat

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

As summer approaches, it is time to consider safety precautions for extreme heat in the coming months. Heat affects all people, but especially the young, elderly, sick and overweight. According to the EPA, "the sun can heat dry, exposed urban surfaces, such as roofs and pavement, to temperatures 50-90 degree hotter than the air, while shaded or moist surfaces-often in more rural surroundings-remain close to air temperatures."

If you must go outside, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and be sure to apply sunscreen often. Pay attention to signs of heat exhaustion, which are heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; and fainting according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is life-threatening. Signs of heat stroke are a high body temperature (103+), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness. If you think someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move the person somewhere cool.

Extreme heat is a serious danger. For more information on preparation and prevention, visit ready.gov or cdc.gov.

Air Movement in Drying

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Two aspects of air movement influence evaporation of moisture from materials.

• Velocity- The speed of the air moving across surfaces.
• Volume- The quantity or amount of air moving during a period of time.

Velocity is a multiplier in the evaporation process, multiplying the rate that evaporation occurs. The velocity of airflow is comparable to wind speed. Higher wind speed will result in higher evaporation rates. Likewise, the faster the velocity of air moving over a wet surface, the better the rate of evaporation will be. Velocity is measured in feet per second (FPS), feet per minute (FPM), or miles per hour (MPH), and can be determined using an anemometer.

Volume is critical to the circulation of air. Airflow used for drying must have high wind speed, but that wind must be dry air. The source of dry air usually is a mechanical dehumidifier, though it could be the outdoor environment. Regardless of source, the dry air must be distributed or circulated throughout the affected area, much like the heated or cooled air from a home air handling system must be distributed throughout.

Moving air from one location to another is a product of mass, or volume, and is usually expressed in Cubic feet per Minute (CFM). We measure air movers in terms of CFM to indicate how much air the air mover is able to move around.

Restorers can better control air movement when they understand the roles of air volume and air velocity. Volume is not velocity. Adequate velocity is critical for increasing the rate of evaporation. Adequate volume is important when trying to circulate wet, dry air throughout especially large and complex structures.

SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley professionals are here to help with all your drying needs.

Smoke Alarms : Life Savers

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

We’ve all heard the low, quiet, annoying beeping sound from inside the house that feels like it never beeps when you are standing next to it. Yes, you know what we are talking about, the smoke alarm. Did you know that the beeping sound is a reminder to change the batteries and perform a quick service to ensure it is working properly? The question is, do you know how to service your smoke alarms? We found some tips from NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) about how to maintain your smoke alarms. 

1. Smoke alarms should be maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
3. Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
4. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning to keep smoke alarms working well. The instructions are included in the package or can be found on the internet.
5. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
6. Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
7. When replacing a battery, follow the manufacturer’s list of batteries on the back of the alarm or manufacturer’s instructions. The manufacturer’s instructions are specific to the batteries (brand and model) that must be used. The smoke alarm may not work properly if a different kind of battery is used.

In the case of a fire emergency in your home or commercial business, SERVPRO of Overland/Cool Valley has the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home. Why should you trust us? 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 as an IICRC-Certified Firmed.

We are always here to help!! 314-279-5900

Biohazard, Crime Scene, and Vandalism Cleanup

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

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

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

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

We can help with the following issues:

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

We are available 24 hours a day to help with any situation that may arise! 314-279-5600

Building Safety Month

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

May is National Building Safety Month! Call us to set up an appointment to establish your Emergency READY Profile.

Why is Building Safety Month important today?

For the last 40 years, the Cod Council, its 64,000 members, and a diverse partnership of professionals from the building construction, design and safety communities have come together to celebrate Building Safety Month.

Building Safety Month provides education for the public about solutions that improve the safety, sustainability and resiliency of buildings, infrastructure and communities. Properly administered and up-to-date safety codes reduce loss of life and property damage.

WEEK ONE - Disaster Preparedness

WEEK TWO- Water Safety

WEEK THREE- Resiliency, Sustainability, Innovation

WEEK FOUR- Training the Next Generation

Call us today to set up an appointment to establish your Emergency READY Profile.