Recent Posts

How to Prevent Further Damage After a Disaster

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

water shut off valve Taking care of the source of the issue before cleaning is always a good way to go for preventing further damage.

Disasters can happen at any time, and they can cause a lot of damage to your home or business. If you're unfortunate enough to experience a disaster, it's important to act quickly to prevent further damage.

Here are some tips on how to prevent further damage after a disaster:

  • Turn off the utilities. This will help to prevent further damage from water, gas, or electricity.
  • Secure your property. This includes boarding up windows and doors, and removing any loose debris.
  • Remove any standing water. This will help to prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Ventilate the area. This will help to remove moisture and prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Clean and disinfect any affected areas. This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria and other contaminants.
  • Contact a professional restoration company. If the damage is extensive, you may need to hire a professional restoration company to help you get your home or business back to normal.

SERVPRO of Lake Nona is a trusted leader in damage restoration. We have over 20 years of experience and a proven track record of success. We're committed to providing our customers with the best possible service, and we'll do everything we can to get your property back to normal as quickly as possible.

If you've experienced a disaster, don't wait. Call SERVPRO of Lake Nona today at (407) 226-2621 to get started with the prevention process. We'll be there quickly to help you keep your property safe and prevent further damage.

Here are some additional tips for preventing further damage after a disaster:

  • Take pictures of the damage before you start cleaning up. This will help you document the damage and file an insurance claim.
  • Keep receipts for all of your expenses related to the disaster. This will help you get reimbursed by your insurance company.
  • Be patient. It may take some time to get your property back to normal.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent further damage after a disaster and get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Lake Nona today at (407) 226-2621 to learn more about our prevention services.

How to Replace Damaged Drywall

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

damaged drywall If the damage is small, you may be able to repair it with a patch. However, if the damage is extensive, you will need to replace the entire sheet.

Drywall is a common building material that is used in homes and businesses. It is relatively easy to repair, but if the damage is extensive, you may need to replace the drywall altogether.

Here are the steps on how to replace damaged drywall:

  1. Inspect the damage. Before you start repairing the drywall, you need to inspect the damage to determine the extent of the damage. If the damage is small, you may be able to repair it with a patch. However, if the damage is extensive, you will need to replace the entire sheet of drywall.
  2. Remove the damaged drywall. Once you have inspected the damage, you need to remove the damaged drywall. Use a utility knife to score the drywall around the damaged area. Then, use a pry bar to pry the drywall away from the studs.
  3. Measure the new drywall. Once you have removed the damaged drywall, you need to measure the opening to determine the size of the new drywall sheet. Add 1 inch to all sides of the opening to allow for a 1/2-inch overlap.
  4. Cut the new drywall. Use a drywall saw to cut the new drywall to the correct size.
  5. Install the new drywall. Attach the new drywall to the studs with drywall screws. Use 1-inch screws spaced every 16 inches on center.
  6. Tape and mud the seams. Once the drywall is installed, you need to tape and mud the seams. Use a joint compound to fill the seams and feather the edges.
  7. Sand the mud. Once the mud has dried, you need to sand it smooth.
  8. Paint or wallpaper the wall. Once the mud is sanded smooth, you can paint or wallpaper the wall.

Here are some additional tips for replacing damaged drywall:

  • Use a level to make sure the new drywall is installed straight.
  • Use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess mud.
  • Allow the mud to dry completely between coats.
  • Apply two coats of paint or wallpaper.

By following these tips, you can replace damaged drywall like a pro.

How to Stay Safe During a Restoration Project

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

circuit breaker panel You can prevent electrical hazards by turning your power off if the restoration process requires the wiring of the property to be exposed.

Restoration projects can be dangerous, so it's important to take steps to stay safe. Here are some tips on how to stay safe during a restoration project:

  • Wear protective gear. This includes gloves, goggles, a hard hat, and steel-toed boots.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for wet floors, exposed wires, and other hazards.
  • Don't work alone. Have someone with you in case of an emergency.
  • Follow the instructions of the restoration professionals. They know what they're doing, and they're there to help you stay safe.

Here are some additional tips for staying safe during a restoration project:

  • Turn off the power. This will help to prevent electrical hazards.
  • Secure the area. This includes boarding up windows and doors, and removing any loose debris.
  • Ventilate the area. This will help to remove moisture and prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Clean and disinfect any affected areas. This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria and other contaminants.

By following these tips, you can help to stay safe during a restoration project and get your property back to normal as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Lake Nona is a trusted leader in damage restoration. We have over 20 years of experience and a proven track record of success. We're committed to providing our customers with the best possible service, and we'll do everything we can to get your property back to normal as quickly as possible.

If you're having a restoration project done, contact SERVPRO of Lake Nona today at (407) 226-2621. We'll be there quickly to help you stay safe and get your property back to normal.

Central Florida Hurricane Season 2023: Professional Predictions and Safety Measures

6/23/2023 (Permalink)

3 palm trees caught in a storm Longtime FL residents are no strangers to extreme weather. With many new residents moving in, it's important to have a plan in the event of a storm.

As residents of Central Florida, we understand the importance of being prepared for the annual hurricane season. With its potential for destructive storms and significant impact on our communities, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest predictions and safety procedures. In this article, we will explore the professionally sourced predictions for the 2023 hurricane season and provide essential information on local shelters and safety measures to help you and your loved ones stay safe during a tropical storm or hurricane.

Professional Predictions for the 2023 Hurricane Season:

Meteorologists and experts in the field of weather forecasting have been diligently studying patterns and data to provide us with insights into the upcoming hurricane season. While it's impossible to predict the exact number or intensity of storms, they have indicated that the 2023 hurricane season in Central Florida may experience above-average activity. It is crucial to take these predictions seriously and be prepared for potential storm threats.

Local Shelters in Central Florida:

In the event of a tropical storm or hurricane, it is important to have a plan in place and know where to seek shelter if necessary. Central Florida is equipped with numerous designated shelters strategically located throughout the region. These shelters provide a safe haven for residents who may need to evacuate their homes. Stay informed about the nearest shelter locations in your area by contacting your local emergency management agency or visiting their official website.

Essential Safety Procedures:

1. Create an Emergency Preparedness Kit: Assemble a well-stocked emergency kit that includes non-perishable food items, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, important documents, and any necessary medications. Ensure that your kit is easily accessible and kept in a designated location.

2. Develop an Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes in your area and have a plan in place for you and your family. Identify a safe meeting point outside the storm-affected area and communicate this plan with your loved ones.

3. Secure Your Property: Trim trees and secure loose objects in your yard to minimize potential damage. Consider installing storm shutters or boarding up windows to protect against strong winds and flying debris.

4. Stay Informed: Monitor local news channels, radio stations, and official weather updates for the latest information regarding the storm's path, intensity, and evacuation orders. Follow the instructions and advice provided by local authorities.

5. Practice Safety During the Storm: If advised to stay indoors, seek shelter in a windowless, interior room on the lowest level of your home. Avoid using electrical appliances, and stay away from windows and exterior doors. Be prepared for power outages and have alternative sources of lighting available.

Conclusion:

The 2023 hurricane season is upon us, and as residents of Central Florida, it is essential to be prepared and stay informed. By heeding the professionally sourced predictions and following the recommended safety procedures, we can protect ourselves, our families, and our properties during tropical storms or hurricanes. Take the time to familiarize yourself with local shelters, create an emergency preparedness kit, and develop an evacuation plan. Remember, your safety is paramount, and being proactive and prepared can make a significant difference when facing the challenges of a severe weather event. Stay safe, Central Florida!

Skilled Restoration After a Grease Fire in Orlando

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire damage restoration specialists have all the tools and training needed for every size disaster. Call now!

Call SERVPRO for Commercial or Residential Fire Restoration in Orlando

Did you know that cooking happens to be one of the most common causes of a kitchen fire? Out of those fires, the highest risk comes from frying foods. A grease fire in your Orlando property is dangerous because it can get out of control quickly. While prevention is critical, SERVPRO is always available 24/7 when you need help handling the cleanup after a grease fire or any blaze within your home or business. We make it “Like it never even happened.”

Before you need to call us for fire restoration in Orlando, these are some helpful tips to remember to help prevent a fire in your kitchen:

  • Always cook in a clean area and clean up any spills on your cooktop once it cools. Greasy exhaust hoods or stovetops can catch fire easily.
  • Never leave your food unattended while cooking, as it can take minutes for cookware to scorch or boil over.
  • Always have a lid within reach, and a fire extinguisher handy should flame erupt. 

Did you know? It is best that you have at least three fire extinguishers readily accessible in your home!

When you call SERVPRO to handle the fallout of a kitchen fire, there are bound to be pungent odors from burnt proteins. We have specialized methods to break through the most challenging, stickiest soot residue to clean surfaces and remove odors. Our team wipes down cabinetry, discards all food items, and cleans appliances. In some situations, it is best to replace your microwave if it is positioned above the stove, as it will be counterproductive to have a repair team fix it.

A fire in your kitchen can be scary, but SERVPRO of South Orange County is here for prompt fire restoration service! Call us at (407) 226-2621 or request help online.

Handling Fire Damage Throughout Your Lake Nona Home

4/30/2022 (Permalink)

When a fire has damaged your home. SERVPRO fire damage restoration team has you covered, 24/7 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Helps Lake Nona Residents with Professional Fire Damage Cleanup

With any house fire in Lake Nona, you could get hit with the loss of furnishings, electronics, sentimental items, and more. Not only will flames cause devastation, but there is also water from fire hoses and smoke and soot to address. SERVPRO knows how important it is for you to have a plan to get back on your feet. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, here for area residents 24/7 for emergency response.

Homeowners may not realize the possible impact on their health when subjected to fire damage in Lake Nona. There will be dirty water left with contaminants from charred debris. Soot and smoke residue can have health effects for both humans and pets. You also have to worry about structural elements and instability until fire restoration gets completed.

Some steps to follow that will help you get ahead of the turmoil a fire leaves in its wake include:

  • Seek temporary shelter, as entering fire damaged homes before they get deemed safe is dangerous.
  • Contact your insurance provider, tell them about the blaze, and get your fire damage claim started. 
  • Get in touch with SERVPRO so we can mobilize a crew to your door within hours to begin the assessment and inspection.

Once we arrive, we will protect your property with the help of our board-up and tarping services. We cover windows and doors as well as holes in walls or your roof to protect it from the elements, vandals, and vermin.

Fire restoration commences, handling all residual moisture, charred debris removal, and addressing structural elements to return your home to pre-fire condition. Unsalvageable materials get replaced and finished to make it look “Like it never even happened.” Before wrapping up, our Odor Control Technicians (OCT) ensure no lingering odors get left behind to remind you of the fire.

Call us at SERVPRO of South Orange County when you need help with fire damage. Reach us 24/7 at (401) 226-2621.

Skilled Mold Remediation After Flooding Rains in Orlando

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Mold remediation for your home is no DIY project. Call SERVPRO for fast and immediate service for your home.

SERVPRO Acts Quickly in Orlando to Execute Mold Remediation

After significant storms beware of mold remediation in the Orlando area, your property could be subjected to floodwater infiltration. Not only do you need rapid water removal services to pull up standing water, but there could be the potential for mold growth given the right circumstances. Whether you see black mold or smell any foul, musty odors, you need to have someone come in to handle it as safely and efficiently as possible. Why call SERVPRO? Because we always come armed with the right equipment and years of experience in each mold mitigation situation!

How can I tell we need mold remediation in Orlando?

Unfortunately, mold is a likely outcome whenever your home gets impacted by flooding or interior water damage. Living organisms like mold spores will thrive when given moisture and organic materials to feed on. You cannot completely eliminate mold, but hiring professionals for mold cleanup will get you the level of cleaning you need to breathe freely within your property once again.

Once you contact our customer care team at SERVPRO, we mobilize our Green Fleet to your door with skilled technicians and all the right equipment for the job. After our arrival, we will:

  • Identify the moisture source to remove water and address the root cause. Failing to do so only means we leave an outlet for mold to develop again. 
  • Containment is put into place using sheeting and negative air pressure to keep microscopic spores from moving into unaffected areas of your property.
  • We begin pulling up mold spores with the help of vacuums and air scrubbers with HEPA filtration.
  • All surfaces get thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and deodorized with the help of specialized cleaning agents and anti-microbial products.

If you want a new level of peace of mind when hiring someone for mold remediation, our skilled team at SERVPRO of South Orange County is here to help. You can reach us by requesting help online or dialing (407) 226-2621.

Handling Fire Damage Throughout Your Lake Nona Home

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

When a fire has damaged your home. SERVPRO fire damage restoration team has you covered, 24/7 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Helps Lake Nona Residents with Professional Fire Damage Cleanup

With any house fire in Lake Nona, you could get hit with the loss of furnishings, electronics, sentimental items, and more. Not only will flames cause devastation, but there is also water from fire hoses and smoke and soot to address. SERVPRO knows how important it is for you to have a plan to get back on your feet. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, here for area residents 24/7 for emergency response.

Homeowners may not realize the possible impact on their health when subjected to fire damage in Lake Nona. There will be dirty water left with contaminants from charred debris. Soot and smoke residue can have health effects for both humans and pets. You also have to worry about structural elements and instability until fire restoration gets completed.

Some steps to follow that will help you get ahead of the turmoil a fire leaves in its wake include:

  • Seek temporary shelter, as entering fire damaged homes before they get deemed safe is dangerous.
  • Contact your insurance provider, tell them about the blaze, and get your fire damage claim started. 
  • Get in touch with SERVPRO so we can mobilize a crew to your door within hours to begin the assessment and inspection.

Once we arrive, we will protect your property with the help of our board-up and tarping services. We cover windows and doors as well as holes in walls or your roof to protect it from the elements, vandals, and vermin.

Fire restoration commences, handling all residual moisture, charred debris removal, and addressing structural elements to return your home to pre-fire condition. Unsalvageable materials get replaced and finished to make it look “Like it never even happened.” Before wrapping up, our Odor Control Technicians (OCT) ensure no lingering odors get left behind to remind you of the fire.

Call us at SERVPRO of South Orange County when you need help with fire damage. Reach us 24/7 at (401) 226-2621.

Stages of Water Removal from Flooring in Lake Nona Homes

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides advanced drying equipment and devices for water cleanup and drying in Lake Nona properties.

Water Cleanup Is a Product of Several Phases of Restoration in Lake Nona Properties

Cleaning up after water damages can require several steps and stages, beginning with our fast arrival for mitigation. Emergency services slow the progress of water damage and help prevent unnecessary harm to contents by allowing relocation and item-by-item cleanup and restoration. We are able to help 24/7 when disasters strike.

Surface Water Removal

Among the first steps of water cleanup for Lake Nona homes and businesses is eliminating surface water from the damaged areas. It is critical managing this pooling of water throughout the affected areas to reduce absorption and saturation into sensitive flooring materials like carpets, hardwood, and other similar materials used. We have multiple extractors to help in this effort, including vacuums and pumps.

Removing Moisture from Flooring Materials

It is important to identify water's impact on the flooring materials themselves. While we prioritize surface water removal, some penetration and absorption are likely. We must track the moisture migration in the house with sophisticated equipment to determine the ideal placement of our drying tools like mats and dehumidifiers. Some of the moisture tracking tools used include:

Was the Subflooring Damaged?

One of the questions SERVPRO must answer when managing water damage in a home or business is whether or not the subflooring was damaged during moisture migration. This subflooring often consists of an OSB board or plywood installation with joists, making it highly susceptible to water damage and deterioration. If water damage exists in these areas, we must act quickly to prevent tear-out and reconstruction when possible.

Because water damage can spread quickly in homes and businesses, SERVPRO of South Orange County works quickly to mitigate loss and protect what matters most to our customers. We are ready 24/7 to help when you call (407) 226-2621.

Four Common Mold Remediation Tactics for Orlando Homes

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is best left to professionals like SERVPRO. We make your Orlando home clean and safe.

Professional Mold Remediation Options Work Best for Damaged Orlando Homes

Mold can be among the more challenging damaging effects that your property experiences in its lifetime. While not all homes and businesses develop mold threats, some areas are impacted regularly by moist conditions that facilitate infestation. Our experienced professionals can respond quickly with remediation strategies that overcome threatening conditions and prevent further damage with processes such as:

  • Moisture removal
  • Content cleaning
  • Mold remediation
  • Repairs

Surface Cleaning Treatments

Beginning mold remediation in Orlando homes focuses on what can be done quickly to overcome developing infestations and prevent irreparable harm to hosting materials. Ideally, surface cleaning is chosen first because it is less invasive and destructive, introducing powerful antimicrobial products to affected surfaces that kill mold organisms on contact. 

Power / Hand-Sanding

Sanding is a measure of removing mold growth that only focuses on what is just beyond the surface layer. Using both hand sanding techniques and power tools, we can more effectively influence organisms trapped beyond the visible surface layer. This measurement is typically used with semi-porous materials like wood.

Media Blasting or Abrasive Cleaning

Among the more aggressive approaches that our professionals can take to remove active mold colonies from the property include media blasting. Along with efforts like sponge pressure cleaning, various media is blasted into the material substrate to eliminate mold organisms. The process could involve pressurized air or water, but water is more rarely used to prevent additional conditions for facilitating mold growth.

Controlled Demolition

While it is used as one of the final resorts for mold remediation, controlled demolition is a universally effective solution for removing active colonies. Discarding hosting elements is a certain method to eliminate mold concerns for the property. Because we have a contractor license, we can complete this demolition work as well as needed repairs and build back services required after mold exposure.

Mold is a threat to any home or business and should be resolved fast. Our SERVPRO of South Orange County team can help when you call (407) 226-2621.