Increased Risk of Fire in the Summer

4/23/2024 (Permalink)

This House Sustained Significant Fire Damage

Spring is in full swing, and the warm weather just does something to us. It renews a sense of hope and purpose after the long, cold winter.

It invites us to enjoy nature as plants show off their blooms and days grow long, and of course it beckons us to engage in that time-honored tradition: the cookout.

But all the fun of graduation and gender reveal parties, family reunions, and backyard social functions carries with it the inherent danger of accidental fires. In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year.

So before you get your backyard fires going this year, let’s look at a few things.

The Grill. Grills are the No. 1 culprit for cooking accidents in spring and summer. They practically beg to start a blaze somewhere, with their dangerous combinations of high heat and combustible elements. So before you start those chicken wings, make sure your grill is free of defects, on stable ground and being operated safely. And don’t forget about cleaning up when you’re done! Almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

The Fire Pit. Gathering around a backyard fire pit with friends is a great way to spend a breezy evening, and that’s not even counting the blessing of marshmallows. But make sure your fire pit time is spent safely. Use a grate to cut down on potential flying embers, and don’t add leaves or paper to your fires, because they create lots of easily spreadable embers. Always attend to the fire, and never leave kids or pets alone beside the blaze.

Chimneys and dryer vents. While these are unrelated to backyard activities, they’re definitely fire hazards that you should manage while you’re thinking about fire safety. Clean out the chimney so you’re not starting fires in tubes full of ash and soot when fall rolls around, and make sure there’s no built-up lint in your dryer’s vent pipe just waiting to be ignited by high heat.

Your local SERVPRO® technicians are on hand ²⁴⁄₇ for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO® difference.

Water and Basements do not always mix

4/23/2024 (Permalink)

Basement walls with water damage

Nevada Flooding and Basement Water Damage | SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City

Nevada is no stranger to flash flooding. Because the terrain is mountainous and the ground is dry for most of the year, a flash flooding situation can happen very quickly.

While many homes in the Las Vegas area don’t have basements because of the rocky caliche that makes up a hard sediment layer under most of the city that is difficult to dig through, some homes do. This can present a challenge as this water from floods can make its way into the underground part of a home.

Below, we’ll look at some of the ways that you can identify water damage in your basement, or other parts of your home.

3 Signs There Could Be Water Damage Present

Musky, unpleasant odors. Water that gets into a basement could be clean, like rain water, but over time, if it becomes stagnant, the scent that it can leave behind after it evaporates is quite pungent. There is a common misconception that all basements have a musty smell, but this shouldn’t be the case for all basements. The smell often associated with basements is only possible when mold and mildew are present .

Flaky paint. Walls and masonry are often the first place people notice water damage. Many homeowners and landlords, in an effort to proactively head this off, will apply waterproof paint to interior walls. However, if water gets behind the paint, it will begin to work away at this paint over time and can lead to peeling, cracking or bubbling on the surface, despite its intended design to mask the issue.

Foundation cracks. Certainly, homes shift over time, but cracks in the foundation can indicate a larger problem, particularly water damage. These cracks can show up anywhere from the floor to the ceiling or the walls and can be a sign that there is water putting undue stress on the home that is liable to cause cracking. While hairline cracks are not an immediate cause for concern, if they grow, they should be treated immediately.

If any of these signs appear in your home, let us take a look and determine the cause of the issues and how we can help you treat it properly. Contact us today to see how we can help.

Restoring your commercial property after water damage

4/23/2024 (Permalink)

Water Damaged Multi-family unit

Water damage and flooding events at Henderson/Boulder City, NV. commercial properties are often complicated, with numerous issues that require a fast and experienced response. Whether dealing with a small water cleanup in one office, or a large water cleanup in multiple offices, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, time is of the essence and a precious commodity in getting your business back up and running. We can assist!

About SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call today: 702-564-8508

Quick & Easy Ways To Detect Mold Growth

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Have a Mold Problem? Call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City today at 702-564-8508 to help!

Mold is an issue that can be a cause of alarm in many homes or businesses. Left unattended, it can potentially reduce the indoor air quality. You've got to deal with the presence of mold as soon as you detect it.

If you think you have mold in your home or business, you should immediately contact a professional mold remediation company to take a look at the extent of your problem, and detail the best plan for removal.

 SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City has quick steps to help you identify the problem and its source. 

1: Visually checking common areas where mold can thrive. Walls, tubs, kitchen and bathroom sinks, shower curtains, washer and dishwasher hose connections, etc., are some of the most common breeding grounds for mold. 

2: Find a source of humidity, such as a leaking pipe, or other source of water. Dehumidification will reduce the chance of mold growing.

3: Check for musty mildew odor smells, these are good indicators mold could be present.

If you suspect you have a mold problem, Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City at 702-564-8508 to assist.

Simple Steps to Avoid Water Damages

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City can help should you suffer a water damage. Call today 702-564-8508

Read your water bill

It is always a good idea to monitor your water bill regularly. Most people just look at the “amount due” and forget the rest of the bill. Look it over and compare the previous months usage to the current month’s usage to check for any differences. That can be the best indication of a leak that you might not know about.

Chemical solutions may not be the best thing when unclogging your sink

Clogs happen. Everyone has experienced them in one way or another. Unclogging solutions are extremely handy, however, they can potentially erode your pipes, and possibly cause future problems. Whenever possible, try to avoid those chemical solutions and try using a drain snake instead.

Never pour grease down your sink

Grease can be harmful to pipes if it hardens inside the trap and cause back ups. If you think diluting grease with hot water and degreaser dish soap, helps, it doesn't. The best thing for grease disposal is to put it in a container such as a old coffee can and let it harden before you throw it away.

Be careful when planting trees or shrubs

Planting trees and shrubs are great, if you are looking to add some shade to help your home cool down in these hot summer months. Always be careful of trees and shrubs that may have invasive roots. Trees and shrubs with invasive roots can cause problems with irrigation pipes and even septic tanks. It is always a smart move to ask what is best to plant before doing so to avoid these issues.

Want to learn more preventative measure to avoid Water Damages?? Call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City today at 702-564-8508. We can help!

Plan Ahead for Severe Storms | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City right away

At the end of the day, no one wants to interact with severe storms. These storms can bring about severe lightning, rain and wind that can damage your home or even worse, you. Unfortunately, it’s likely you will encounter severe storm damage in your time as a homeowner since there are around 100,000 thunderstorms throughout the United States every year.

In December 2021, Henderson saw severe winds that impacted structures around Las Vegas. Storm wind even knocked over a traffic light pole on Green Valley Parkway between Sunset Road and Cedarhurst Circle.

Everyone knows there is nothing we can do to influence the weather, but we do have the ability to prepare for it in a number of ways, which we will address.

Your Severe Weather Communication Strategy

If you are dealing with severe weather, you want to make sure you have a reliable way to reach your family. You should be able to receive messages from authorities and look out for weather watches and warnings. This will help you know what to do next.

You should also keep both a cell phone and an NOAA weather radio on hand to make sure you’re caught up on the latest updates.

Lastly, you should have a communication strategy for your household, which establishes a safe spot in your home and a communication plan in case some household members are away from home when a storm strikes. Everyone should know how to check in and mark themselves as safe.

Your Severe Weather Emergency Kit

Make sure you have an emergency kit stashed away in your storm shelter area. It should have all the essentials you need for at least 72 hours of sheltering in place.

The kit should include nonperishable food, water, flashlights and batteries, first-aid supplies, and anything else you might need in the event of a prolonged storm.

Your Severe Weather Aftermath Checklist

Even when the storm is over, your work isn’t done yet. You need to look at your safety plan and evaluate its effectiveness. As you’re working through the plan with your household members, gather feedback on your communications, emergency kit and any other elements so that you’re even more prepared for the next storm.

After the storm, when it’s safe to do so, go around and check your home for any damage, paying close attention to your roof and seals around windows and doors where water damage is likely.

In the event there is any damage, you know who to call! SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City has restoration experts available ²⁴⁄₇ that will respond quickly so that you can get back in your home in no time.

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ to spring into action—get in touch with us today.

Commercial Water Damage-3 Items A Business Needs To Check

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Call Today to set up your FREE Emergency Ready Profile. 702-564-8508

When a company suffers a water loss, everyone involved is impacted. SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City has compiled a list of common water damage culprits for commercial buildings. Here are the top 3 items you should check on regularly within your business.

1. Malfunctioning Sprinkler Systems - Fire sprinklers are fantastic and can keep a building safe during a fire, however, if one accidentally goes off or breaks, it can cause substantial water damage to the building, as well as to any assets in that building. It is recommended to get your fire sprinklers tested every 2-4 years. Learn where the water shut off valve (s) are located.
2. Appliances - Just like in a residential home, most commercial buildings have appliances like hot water heaters, refrigerators, sinks and toilets. All those things have the potential to cause a water loss. Implement a commercial maintenance program with a plumber and have them check fittings and pipes on a set semi-annual schedule.
3. Backed up sewer lines - Sewer damages are extremely messy and can cause real problems if not taken care of properly. It is highly recommended to get your sewer lines jetted or cleaned every 18 to 24 months.

Not all water damages can be fully prevented, but there are ways to help reduce damage. We can help! By developing a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water damage can affect your business. Call SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City at 702-564-8508 to schedule your FREE Emergency READY Profile TODAY!

Keep It Safe This Grilling Season | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City to learn more.

Spring is in full swing, and the warm weather just does something to us. It renews a sense of hope and purpose after the long, cold winter.

It invites us to enjoy nature as plants show off their blooms and days grow long, and of course it beckons us to engage in that time-honored tradition: the cookout.

But all the fun of graduation and gender reveal parties, family reunions, and backyard social functions carries with it the inherent danger of accidental fires. In fact, spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year.

So before you get your backyard fires going this year, let’s look at a few things.

The Grill. Grills are the No. 1 culprit for cooking accidents in spring and summer. They practically beg to start a blaze somewhere, with their dangerous combinations of high heat and combustible elements. So before you start those chicken wings, make sure your grill is free of defects, on stable ground and being operated safely. And don’t forget about cleaning up when you’re done! Almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

The Fire Pit. Gathering around a backyard fire pit with friends is a great way to spend a breezy evening, and that’s not even counting the blessing of marshmallows. But make sure your fire pit time is spent safely. Use a grate to cut down on potential flying embers, and don’t add leaves or paper to your fires, because they create lots of easily spreadable embers. Always attend to the fire, and never leave kids or pets alone beside the blaze.

Chimneys and dryer vents. While these are unrelated to backyard activities, they’re definitely fire hazards that you should manage while you’re thinking about fire safety. Clean out the chimney so you’re not starting fires in tubes full of ash and soot when fall rolls around, and make sure there’s no built-up lint in your dryer’s vent pipe just waiting to be ignited by high heat.

Your local SERVPRO technicians are on hand ²⁴⁄₇ for emergencies. If you encounter fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we will be there faster and have it cleaned up sooner. Call or click today and experience the SERVPRO difference.

How Different Types of Flooding Can Affect You | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

Nevada is the nation’s driest state, averaging just 10.2 inches of rainfall per year. Therefore, you may not think much about the impact of flooding.

However, it is the most common natural disaster and claims more lives in the United States per year than hurricanes, tornadoes or lightning. Flooding takes a toll on everything from residential properties to entire communities and cities.

Flooding affects all 50 states and every U.S. territory, and there are similarities in types and causality among all them. There are three common types of flooding, and they happen for four typical reasons.

Types of Natural Flooding

Flash flooding is very common and happens when heavy rain passes or sits over an area and overwhelms the ability of the ground to contain the moisture. Excess water can sweep away anything from items to people if the current is powerful enough. In July 2021, two children were swept into a Henderson drainage tunnel. Thankfully, the Henderson Fire Department was able to rescue the two boys, ages 12 and 14, when the incident occurred. Henderson authorities warn the public to stay away from drainage channels and washes, particularly when flash flooding occurs.

River flooding occurs when there’s too much water for a river to hold, and the water spills over the sides, leading to destruction.

Coastal flooding happens in areas next to large bodies of water, when storm surges or cyclonic activity causes ocean or gulf levels to rise to flood levels.

Causes of Natural Flooding

Heavy rainfall. Storms with excessive rainfall, or storms that sit and rest over an area for an extended period can cause flash floods or river flooding. Urban areas are more at risk for rain floods, because the higher percentage of concrete and asphalt means there’s a lack of soil to soak up all that water.

Oceanic activity. Storm surges, hurricanes and rising tides can cause water levels to rise in waves, which can invade coastal communities and wreak havoc.

Dams and levees failing. The most notable example of this in recent history would be the disastrous levee breaks during 2005’s Hurricane Katrina. Levees and dams fail when cracks occur or excess pressure overtakes the dam’s ability to contain the surge of water behind it.

Snowmelts and ice dams. In areas of the country where heavy snow and prolonged freezing temperatures are common, snow and ice can build up over a winter’s time, and when they start to melt, they cause rivers of water to flow through area communities. Ice dams or ice jams happen when rivers become blocked by built-up ice being carried downstream, causing the banks to overflow.

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when flooding or water damage makes a mess in your life.

SERVPRO Is Here When You Need a Friend in Cleaning and Restoration | SERVPRO® of Henderson/Boulder City

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is your local cleaning and restoration expert. We are the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration

Mere hours can make a huge difference in the damage that can happen to your property. SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City is your best call because we understand that when you call us, you may be under stress, confused or in a crisis.

Day or night, our professional team will be there to directly answer any of your home cleaning and restoration questions. We can help with any kind of disaster. Here’s how:

Water Damage

Water isn’t typically the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Nevada due to the dry climate. However, flash flooding does occur, and it can cause serious damage to your Henderson or Boulder City home.

No homeowner wants to have damage to their property, but some of the worst is caused by water damage. Unfortunately, water damage is one of the most common types of damage, with flooding causing more than $10 billion in damages nationwide every year.

In the event of flooding, it’s best to address the damage as soon as it happens. We’ll help you understand the severity of the damage, so you’re able to make the right choice for cleaning and restoration.

Our process begins by detecting hidden moisture and extract standing water. Next, we will help you develop a water damage restoration plan to ensure your home is clean, dry and restored to preloss condition.

Fire Damage

In home fire emergencies, every second counts. It only takes minutes for a house to fill with smoke and become completely engulfed in flames.

In fact, there is a fire every 23 seconds in the United States. Fires caused around $8.1 billion in direct property damage and losses nationwide in 2020.

After your family has safely made it out of your home and your home fire has been put out by your local fire department, it’s best to call SERVPRO of Henderson/Boulder City to assess your property and configure a strategy.

Storm Damage

Your house can encounter any number of issues during a storm from flooding to downed trees. It’s important to us that we get you back in your newly restored home as soon as possible.

Storm and water damage can affect not only the structure of your home but your belongings as well. SERVPRO specializes in content restoration, with the mindset of restoring rather than replacing.

We’ll restore your property to the condition it was in before the damage occurred, whether that entails minor repairs (like replacing drywall or installing new carpeting) or major ones (like reconstructing parts of your property).

Why Choose SERVPRO?

There is something to be said about having strength in numbers. SERVPRO can boast over our strength due to the over 1,900 locations across North America. Each year, the best of the best share with other locations to ensure that we always have what’s needed to resolve a disaster.

At SERVPRO, we have the advantage of learning from the best in our industry. While it is great to have the national brand behind us, we are also your neighbor down the street, so you can rest assured we’ll have your home or business back to normal as soon as possible.

Regardless of the type of damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when you need a dependable team to help you rebuild your life.