Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett a call to get that resolved!
You get to the office and unlock the doors, reach for the lights and suddenly start to notice that things are smelling musty and damp. Has your building sprung a leak somewhere?
That would certainly be an uncomfortable situation to be in, but picture stepping through the doors and into a massive puddle. Now we are in an actual nightmare!
Plumbing failures or natural disasters can create a big mess that needs fast action in order to keep it from getting bigger. When you know what to do after finding water in your business, you can prevent extreme damage and get back to work faster.
One Step at a Time
Flooding in your business is a lot to handle. Even when a natural disaster was predicted and you took every safety measure possible, finding water in your space can be extremely overwhelming.
Take a deep breath and break things down to a single step at a time. You can get things back to normal quickly and prevent deep damage or mold growth.
1. Stay safe. Any time a disaster strikes, regardless of size or source, safety should be your top priority. Call our crew at SERVPRO® immediately, and seek out a dry place to wait for the professionals to arrive. If you can safely do so, take as many photos of the water and damage as possible.
2. Control the disaster. The faster you can move when you discover water, the more you can prevent extreme losses. Find the source of the leak if you are able and shut the water flow off. If you can’t find the source but the leak is coming from an internal source, shut the main water valve off.
3. Start the drying process. Floodwaters, even when they start clean, can quickly become dangerously contaminated from external sources. The more you can stay out of the water, the better. Even still, if you are able to start the drying process, you should. Open windows around the flooded area, turn on fans and remove anything in the water’s path.
Work With the Pros
When our restoration professionals get to your property, they will immediately start taking action to get water out of your business. We will also complete a full assessment of everything your business needs, and walk you through what recovery is going to look like. Our crew works directly with your insurance agency so that your process is as simple as possible.
As your recovery progresses, you can turn your attention to getting your business going again. If the disaster was contained to a single space and our experts consider it safe to do so, you can utilize the rest of your building while complete repairs.
While you take care of your team, our team will take care of completing the drying process. It is always our goal to restore rather than replace your property, and we will involve you in every part of the decision-making process.
Don’t allow water to take a stand in your commercial building. Move fast, and call SERVPRO. We will get things dried out in no time so your business never skips a beat.
Do you need repairs after a water disaster in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.
Tackling a Leaky Appliance With Confidence | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
Are you left dealing with the aftermath or water damage to your home? SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett wants to help. Contact us now!
Do you have an appliance that gets used almost every day in your home? We all have that one appliance that we rely on to get us through our days, and chances are that it is an appliance that uses water to function. Water heaters, washing machines and dishwashers play a vital role in our day-to-day functioning.
Since we are surrounded by water all of the time, that also means that the risk of suffering water damage is always present. While we can’t always prevent water incidents and accidents from occurring, knowing what to do when one happens in your home can mitigate damage.
What to Do First
Water leaks can happen in a singular, obvious event like a flood or overflowing sink, but they can also be much sneakier. If your appliance starts to leak out the back or underneath, the water leak could be happening for a significant period of time before you are alerted to the situation.
By that time, serious water damage could have set in and even mold growth may have started.
It is time to investigate as soon as you notice a new puddle or a water spot that you know wasn’t there the day before. Shut off the supply of water by turning off the connecting water valve and powering off the machine. Avoid walking through any standing water, and consider shutting off electricity to the area, just to be on the safe side.
What to Do Afterward
Once the flow of water is controlled, it is time to get us on the phone. Water damage is often time-sensitive because bacteria can quickly start to grow and mold infestations can start to take hold the longer it sits unaddressed. It can even lead to serious structural issues throughout your home.
We will arrive quickly to start drying out the excess moisture and we will also tackle any residual damage left behind by the water. This could include carpet replacement, wall repair and the installation of new flooring. When we are through, we will even sanitize your entire space to ensure mold cannot grow.
If the appliance that malfunctioned is getting old or unreliable, we recommend you look into replacing it as soon as possible. The older an appliance gets, the higher the chance that another water disaster will happen again.
Has an unexpected flashflood invaded your home or business? SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is Here to Help®. Don’t hesitate to contact us now!
Water can impact our lives in many ways, and one of the most destructive ways is when flooding conditions are present. We all know how powerful water can be, and it can cause a serious strain on your home or business’ structural integrity.
Floodwaters can cause intense amounts of damage in a short amount of time, and they can also create dangerous situations for anyone caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Understanding what to do before, during and after a flood is crucial for your safety.
When It Floods at Home
Flood watches and warnings can be issued even if it is not actively raining, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take them seriously. Start preparing your home for the possibility of a flood by clearing out your lowest level and by removing any important documents or keepsakes. Stay in a higher room to wait out the storm.
When the water stops rushing in, use extreme caution if you have to walk around any flooded levels of your home. Floodwater can bring all sorts of hazardous or dangerous things into your home, like sewage, storm runoff, chemicals or sharp debris. If you must walk through the water to get to safety, wear sturdy boots and gloves and move slowly.
When It Floods at Work
Flooding situations at work can cause chaos quickly as your employees scramble to safety and to stay dry. Your main focus should be on getting your team to safety, so either send them to a higher location or begin a quick evacuation, whichever is the safest option at the moment.
Designating someone to grab any important electronics or files can help ensure everyone can navigate the next few days calmly and smoothly.
Once the threat has passed, don’t let anyone into your building until the authorities have deemed it safe to reenter. Floods can easily compromise walls, floors and ceilings, so it is always best to get a professional opinion first. Take as many photos of the wreckage as you can and get us on the phone so we can start creating your restoration plan.
Addressing Your Flood Damage
We will get right to work drying out your space and extracting excess water. The faster we move, the less of a chance that mold will set in and we can even prevent the damage from traveling to other areas. We will dry out your entire affected area and use our thermal cameras to detect hidden moisture.
Once the space is dry, we can handle any sort of reconstruction needs that your home has. We can replace drywall and carpet, install new flooring and even help restore any soft materials that suffered damage in the flood.
We will do our best to restore as much of your property as possible, and we will work hard until your home or building is returned back to its pre-flood condition right away.
If you discover damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett right away.
When you are a homeowner, there is a lot that you need to be prepared for and consider. We may not love thinking about it, but some of what you need to be prepared for is the possibility of damage to your home. It could be from severe weather, aging, fires or even just a neighbor who loves to practice teeing off while facing your windows.
Even though there are a lot of potential ways our homes are at risk, we can’t spend our days worrying. You can’t always predict or control a natural disaster, but with preparation, you can weather just about anything with as little damage as possible.
The best place to start when it comes to preparing for potential damage to our homes is getting to know the top threats. The more you know about what could happen, the more clearly you can see how simple preparing before and completing restoration after can be, especially with SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett right around the corner.
The Biggest Risks
From tornadoes in the summer to snowy winter days, East Lansing has its share of potential weather risks that could leave your home damaged. On average, we can see nearly 15 tornadoes in a year. While they primarily are in the warmer months, they really can’t be ruled out early in the winter. In the cold months, snow and ice can put pressure on roofs and lead to flooding when it melts.
While our risks shift slightly seasonally, there are three kinds of threats that everyone should always be prepared for. Damage to your roof, the threat of fire and water damage are common ways homes are damaged all around the nation.
Water damage can come from internal sources like an appliance failure or external sources, including flooding from the Great Lakes or just a heavy rain. Fire, like water, can come from outside or inside your home, although the vast majority of house fires are caused by human error. Your roof is also vulnerable in a variety of ways, including strong winds, heavy snow loads or even just the random occurrence where a loose limb falls from the sky.
Compounding Damages
Dealing with a threat heading toward your house or suddenly occurring is a scary enough situation that can become a lot scarier when you consider the kinds of damage you might be left with. When the Great Lakes rise, your home might not only be left wet, but also at risk for rapid mold growth that could damage your structure.
When a fire starts inside or outside, your home is at risk for damage not just where the flames are, but even into rooms that saw no flames as the odor, smoke and soot spread rapidly. The firefighting efforts also leave your home facing water and mold damage, or damage left behind from the chemicals in a fire extinguisher.
Whether a disaster was manmade or naturally occurring, your recovery process will require several steps. Working with SERVPRO® means you only need one contractor since we are trained and have the equipment to handle every part of your restoration process. We have experience in handling every kind of water and fire damage, and we can even tear down badly damaged parts of your home and rebuild them.
If your home has a basement flood or a roof leak, our first priority will be drying everything we can while we secure your home to prevent additional damages. This might include replacing your roof beams or removing odors in your furniture. We will also make sure everything is sealed and sanitized to ensure mold can’t return.
A fire that strikes your home will likely mean that we start by removing the most burned areas of your home, sealing off any open spaces to stop the weather from coming in and addressing smoke and soot damage anywhere it has spread. We will also address any damage left behind from the water used to put the flames out. When your home has more damage then can be repaired, we can tear it down and rebuild it.
SERVPRO works directly with your insurance company and coordinates every step of the process. We want to make the recovery process as simple as possible in order to ease as much of your worries as we can. With 24⁄7 availability and industry-leading training and equipment, we are here when you need us so that you can get back to living quickly.
Does your home need restoration and you don’t want to make more than one call? Contact us to get everything handled by one team.
Why Your Business Needs an Emergency Plan | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
Are you prepared for disaster? SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is here for you when disaster strikes!
Have you noticed an increase in natural disasters over the last few years? Statistically speaking, not only have natural disasters been increasing over the last five years, but they have also been growing in strength. That means more damage, more often.
Statistics aren’t always the most reliable tool, though, and perhaps your business never sees a natural disaster that causes physical damage. Even if that is true, there is still a real potential for manmade issues that could happen and leave your business at a loss.
Thinking about your risks might not be something you enjoy doing, but it is crucial in order to stay ahead of ways that you could experience business interruptions. With a plan, you can stay focused on work knowing that your business and your team are protected.
The Importance of a Plan
As the number of natural disaster continues to rise, making a plan is an important way to protect the lives of your employees and prevent extensive damage to your business. Getting to know these threats can help you take steps ahead of possible floods, fire or storms.
When a disaster strikes, not only are you at risk for the physical damage to your property, but you are also at risk for financial losses. Disasters are one of the most financially challenging situations a business can face. With a plan, you can make sure your team stays safe and your finances are protected.
With a plan, you can get back to work faster. A large majority of businesses never find a way to reopen after they have been affected by a disaster that forced them to shut down. If you have a plan, your team can get back to work as soon as it is safe to do so, no matter what kind of disaster your business endured.
An Emergency Ready Plan
Even when you know having a plan is important, it can be challenging to create one. Fortunately, SERVPRO® has the perfect solution for your business. With an Emergency Ready Plan that is personalized to meet your needs, you can rest a little easier knowing you are prepared.
In order to build the perfect plan for you, we will start with a free assessment of your business. We will address your unique needs in order to create a course of action that protects your employees and mitigates as much loss as possible. Our team will walk with you to help you better understand what to do before, during and after an event occurs.
Before a disaster can strike, we will lay out the steps you should take to be prepared. This could include getting important paperwork to a safe place, preparing your team to start working remotely or even shoring up your building to prevent damage. Your plan will make sure everyone knows what to do from the moment you say “go.”
Communication will be a crucial piece of your plan every step of the way as well. Your employees will understand the chain of command and know exactly who they will be getting directions from. After a disaster and as soon as it is safe, our team will respond to your physical location in order to start restoration right away while your team gets back to work. If your crew can’t work remotely, we will include alternate physical locations for them to report to.
SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Plan is the complete package that will help keep your staff safe and your business going. We will make a plan that protects you financially and helps you avoid a total closure. Not only do you get a plan that keeps work going, but you also get our years of experience, 24⁄7 availability and the backing of a national brand that always has your needs covered.
Ready to create your Emergency Ready Plan for your business? Contact us for your free assessment to start the plan you need.
Celebrating the Holidays, Fire-Free | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett on the case!
The holiday season has arrived again, which means it is time to gather the family and celebrate. No matter when or how you celebrate the season, there is a good chance it is going to involve some really incredible food. Of course, to have incredible food, you have to have incredible cooking—which can create not-so-incredible fire risks.
A large majority of home fires start in the kitchen, and that number tends to spike during the holiday season. When you take some preventive measures, though, you can enjoy your celebrations and all the food they bring with them without a single worry.
Reducing Flammable Materials in the Kitchen
When you head into the kitchen, there is likely a good bit of prep work to do before the cooking ever begins. While you clean your counters, make sure to remove any clutter, too. Many fires start simply because there is something too close to a heat source.
Keep pot holders, oven mitts, and towels away from the stove. Watch out for wooden cooking utensil, making sure they are set far enough away that a quick spark can’t reach them. A single pop of oil or spark from a pan can set a big blaze quickly.
Think about what you are wearing when you are ready to get the cooking started as well. Skip clothing with loose fabrics, hanging strings or dangling decorations. The kids won’t mind that you didn’t wear that fun apron they made you when they understand you are staying safe!
Keep a Close Eye on Food
Any time you cook, stay nearby. Even after everything is done, stick close to the kitchen while your appliances cool down.
Kitchen fires move quickly—which means you need to be close so that you can react fast and keep them from getting out of control. Fires are possible whether you are grilling, baking or simply boiling some water.
If deep-frying a turkey is going to be part of your celebrations, take some extra steps to prevent a disaster.
Put the fryer on a level surface clear of any flammable materials. Don’t overfill the oil, and keep the kids and pets away. Make sure your turkey is completely thawed, too. Even a partially frozen turkey can turn the grease into fireworks that won’t end well.
Install Protective Measures
You can’t always prevent every fire, but when you take as many steps as possible toward safety, you can greatly reduce your risks. Make sure your home has plenty of preventive measures in place, including smoke detectors on every level.
While you should check these monthly, check the one in or near your kitchen before you start the holiday cooking to make sure it is in good working shape.
Store a fire extinguisher near your kitchen, and teach a few of the members of your household how to use it. Even if your recipe doesn’t call for it, get the lids of any pots or pans you will be using out so that you can smother potential grease fires quickly.
Make your holiday safe. You deserve to enjoy this time with your family! If you do suffer smoke or fire damage, call us right away. We can get to your house quickly and get your restoration handled. We will put things back together so you can get back to celebrating.
House fires can happen in the blink of an eye. Contact us for a quick restoration day or night!
Dealing With Strong Winter Storms | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett has your back with these helpful tips.
No matter how long you live in Michigan, winter storms can still throw you for a huge loop. Our weather can bring us anything from extremely cold temperatures to blizzard conditions, leaving roads wet and slippery and our homes at risk for damage.
Regardless of what the winter weather does bring, when you are prepared, you can prevent a disaster and keep your family safe. Getting your home ready means you can deal with any winter storm that comes your way.
Preparing Your Home
Ahead of a big storm, you want to be prepared to stay indoors and off the road for 24 to 48 hours. Blizzard conditions, ice and freezing temps can make traveling dangerous until plows have been through and roads are salted again. A big enough storm could have you indoors for even longer.
Check your weather radio and make sure it is working well. Check on your other emergency supplies in order to be prepared for the potential that power could be knocked out long-term. You want to ensure you are ready to stay safe and warm.
Make sure you have plenty of flashlights, batteries and first-aid supplies. You should also gather up blankets, sleeping bags and warm layers in order to keep everyone cozy. If you have a fireplace, stock up on wood or take a look at your pilot light to make sure it is ready to go. Check your generator if you have one as well, and make sure you follow all the safety guidelines to prevent potential disasters.
Consider making alternate plans in case you need to leave home. Talk with your family and friends and determine the safest options for everyone. You can also keep an eye on local news stations to watch for warming stations that open up in order to warm up during the day.
Taking Care of Your Home After the Storm
Once the bulk of the storm has passed and things begin to clear up, head outside to assess your home. Even if you came through the storm without any damage, you will need to do a couple of things to ensure your home stays safe as the dust settles.
If you don’t already have one, get a roof rake so that you can light the snow load after a big storm. Not only does this decrease the possibility of a roof collapse from the weight of the snow, but it can also lower the possibility of ice dams. Snow can weigh nearly 20 pounds per cubic foot, so the more you can scrape off, the safer things will stay.
Once you have taken care of your roof, pay close attention to your gutters. Not only do you want to make sure they are blockage-free along the roofline, but you should also walk the perimeter of your home and make sure everything is still connected. Remove any ice that has formed at the gutter exits as well. Check the vents around your home to make sure they are free of blockages, too. Remove snow and ice so that you are not at risk for carbon monoxide buildup inside your home.
How We Can Help
When you head out after the storm to assess your home, if you do find damage, make sure to call us right away. We are available around the clock and will get a team headed to your house in order to assess the situation and get things as secure as possible so that restorations can continue quickly.
Our goal is to get your home put back together exactly as it should be. We want you to be able to get back to enjoying the beauty that winters in Michigan can be.
Our team is always ready for anything! Contact us at SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett for a quick restoration after suffering damage from a winter storm.
Is Your East Lansing Team Ready for Severe Weather? | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
If your home or business was damaged in a storm, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to get you back in action.
Being ready for any challenge that is thrown your way is essential to staying afloat as a business owner. You have the responsibility of training your employees for anything that occurs in the workplace, including severe weather.
While it’s no doubt important to prepare for common workplace obstacles, you’ll also need to get ready for the possibility of nasty weather interrupting your workplace. If you’re not prepared, local weather threats can sweep through and shut your business down for good.
Keep your crew from reacting inappropriately in the middle of a disaster by using this guide to ensure your workplace is fully prepared.
Know Your Risk
As you begin creating a plan for your business, you’ll need to know what kind of weather hits our area the most. Every area experiences its own unique set of weather conditions, so knowing what could affect your business will help you avoid chaos.
East Lansing sees severe weather like tornadoes, thunderstorms, floods and snowstorms. These conditions make a huge impact on our area each year, causing detrimental damage and forcing businesses to shut their doors.
Figuring out your flood risk is a good place to start when researching what could affect your business. Other things like checking the weather before each work week and having advisory notifications on can help you warn your team before the weather worsens.
Make a Plan to Communicate
Being able to communicate with your team will be crucial In the middle of a weather emergency. Nowadays, technology makes it easier than ever to communicate in the workplace.
Make sure everyone on your team is connected through the same system so they can receive real-time updates when severe weather strikes. This can help them gather any necessary supplies and prepare in an orderly manner.
Plan Your Evacuation
It can be scary to think about, but your team may end up needing to make a quick evacuation if severe weather gets too bad.
Let your crew know where to go when you need to evacuate and point out any exits. To ensure your employees know what to do when an evacuation is needed, run and drill and go over these areas.
During certain weather emergencies, an evacuation may not be safe; instead, you’ll need to shelter in place. Pick a safe area where everyone in your building can shelter until the storm blows over.
No matter how severe the weather gets, it’s important that your workplace stays calm! This will ensure everyone reacts appropriately if disaster strikes. Run through your escape plan, stay connected with your team and keep up to date with the local weather.
Don’t let extreme weather take control! If storms strike your business, SERVPRO can help you restore your losses.
Prepare Your Home for Storm Season | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett has your back when you experience flood and water damage.
East Lansing is no stranger to rainfall and occasional storms. When it comes to keeping your home safe from these events, taking proactive measures is crucial.
Storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, hail and floods, posing various risks that can lead to significant damages. Storm-proofing the exterior of your house is essential to prevent expensive repairs and safety risks.
Preparing for the Stormy Season
Protecting your home from storms doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, many storm-proofing measures can be integrated into your regular routines.
Strong winds and heavy rain can be a concern wherever you live. In order to reduce the possibility of flying objects breaking windows or water collecting in your basement, trim the trees close to your property, check your gutters frequently and eliminate loose debris. When storms are approaching, remember to secure your patio furniture or locate a secure storage facility.
Inspect your property for any gaps or deteriorated wood. Maintaining caulking around window and door frames is crucial to prevent potential leaks during heavy rain.
Regularly check your roof after each wind event and at least once every four months. Replace any missing or loose shingles promptly and be vigilant for openings around gutters, edges or chimney areas.
Getting Your Home Ready
While many storm preparations can be done without having to pay additional costs, you may also want to consider some upgrades to prepare for our area’s inclement weather.
Purchasing storm shutters can be a wise move, especially if your house is in a location that’s vulnerable to high winds. You can also increase protection by upgrading your windows to stronger materials that can endure harsh weather. Gutter guard installation can help you avoid clogs and significant water damage, which is especially important if you have a number of trees around your property.
To ensure that sheds and modular homes are secure during strong storms, think about adding additional bracing or structural tie-downs.
Maintain constant awareness of the weather by setting up numerous alert systems, and designate a safe area of your house where you can quickly evacuate during severe storms.
Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to get your space back in shape.
With the summer season in full swing, we’re all excited about Michigan sunny days and outdoor gatherings with loved ones. As you prepare for backyard BBQs, it’s crucial to prioritize grilling safety to prevent dangerous situations and potential fires.
Wondering where to begin? Our SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett team shares some ways below you can ensure a fire-free and enjoyable summer BBQ experience.
Ensuring a Safe Grill Setup
To start, it’s essential to keep your grill outside and away from enclosed spaces such as garages or roof overhangs. Adequate ventilation is necessary, and any flammable materials above the grill can pose a fire hazard. Remember to position the grill at least 10 feet away from your house or wooden deck railing. If children and pets are present, make sure to create a safe zone for them that is away from hazardous areas.
Before using a charcoal grill, inspect it for any ash buildup, dents or cracks. For propane grills, carefully check the gas lines for leaks and ensure secure connections. Leaky lines or propane tanks are highly dangerous fire hazards that must be addressed.
Manning the Flames
While cooking, it’s important to remain near the grill and have a water source nearby as a precautionary measure. A spray bottle can come in handy for controlling flare-ups, and keeping a hose or fire extinguisher within reach is crucial.
Once the food is cooked, hand it off to someone else while you turn off the gas or close the vents for charcoal grills to cut off the oxygen supply. Properly dispose of ash and embers in a metal can to eliminate any potential fire hazards, even after you’re done grilling. Before calling it a night, ensure that the grill has cooled down completely.
Have a Safe Summer Full of Memories
Our team at SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett hopes you and your family have a fantastic and safe summer filled with beautiful memories. However, in the unfortunate event of a fire incident during a BBQ, remember that we are here 24⁄7 to respond to your call.
If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett right away.
Water is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. But while water plays a crucial role in our lives, it can wreak havoc when it infiltrates our homes unexpectedly. Whether it comes in the form of a flooded basement due to a busted water heater, a leaky roof from a storm or a flash flood seeping through doors and windows, water damage can turn your life upside down.
While there are preventive measures to protect your home from water damage, some disasters are beyond preparation. The good news is that our water damage restoration experts are available to help.
Taking the First Steps
Responding swiftly to a water disaster is vital for minimizing the damage to your home. Water can infiltrate hidden spaces, so locating the source and promptly drying the surrounding area will help you regain control. If the source is an internal issue, such as a leaking appliance, shut off the water flow immediately. It’s essential to know the location of your water shut-off valves and electrical shut-offs to prevent accidents involving live wires.
Never attempt to wade through water with live electrical wires; always turn them off at the source before proceeding. Once it’s safe, contact SERVPRO® for expert assistance. Our 24⁄7 availability ensures that immediate action is taken, reducing the overall damage to your home.
The Drying Process
Once you get in touch with us, we will assess your situation over the phone while coordinating with your insurance company to streamline the recovery process. It’s advisable to take photos of the damage, as these can be helpful for documentation and ensuring a smooth timeline.
SERVPRO will dispatch a team of experts armed with industry-leading equipment to begin the drying process. The primary goal is to extract the water and dry out soft materials to restore as much of your property as possible, minimizing the need for replacements. The team ensures thorough sanitation and eliminates any odors from your home.
Rest assured that our team of technicians can handle any type of water damage, regardless of its origin. If an area of your home requires more than basic repairs, their professionals can tear down and rebuild that section, leaving your house in pristine condition.
For extensive water damage—such as damage caused by storms or pipe failures—it’s best to leave the task to the professionals. SERVPRO experts are equipped to handle such situations thoroughly and safely, providing you with peace of mind even amidst water-related challenges.
Water damage can be a significant disruption to your life, but with prompt action and the expertise of SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett, your home can be restored efficiently. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help when dealing with water-related disasters.
Do you have water damage in your home? Call us for fast and complete restoration.
What to Do When Storm Damage Strikes | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to restore your space in no time!
Has a storm ever blown through and left you amazed at the speed and power in which it happened? Even if you have time to prepare, storms can be stronger than anticipated and create damages you couldn’t have anticipated.
The weather in East Lansing is fairly moderate and cool, but that doesn’t mean we haven’t seen plenty of strong storms. The summer months can be particularly dangerous, with strong thunderstorms, high winds and even the occasional tornado all possible. In July, we even saw overnight storms that tore down trees after 70 mph winds blew through.
We know that preparing before a winter storm is crucial in order to ride things out safely, but the more we stay prepared year-round, the better the outcome will be when the weather turns severe. Knowing what to do after a storm is also important so that your recovery process is quick and easy.
If you find your home damaged after a storm, take a deep breath and make sure safety is your first priority. Then take action to start putting your life back together.
Immediately After the Storm
In the time immediately after a storm has passed, it is crucial to stay vigilant of additional weather threats. Lightning, heavy rain or hail could be lingering, or another storm could be headed your way. Keep a way to receive weather alerts close and maintain a clear path back to your shelter should you need to move quickly to safety.
Give your loved ones a call to see if anyone needs assistance. If cell service isn’t available, texting may still work. If you haven’t already done so, make sure how you will communicate after a storm is clear to all of your family.
Go check on those in your immediate area. Don’t go into damaged buildings, but instead, look for a clear exit or remove debris from the road as you are able to allow emergency vehicles in.
Take pictures if you are able, and call SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett. We are waiting for your call around the clock so that we can start your recovery right away.
As More Time Passes
As time moves on, the depth of your damage will become more evident. You need to continue to keep yourself and your family safe. Stay aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards like loose nails or boards. Keep your cell phone charged if you are able, or have some other way to get weather alerts around at all times in case another storm headed your way.
Preventing additional damages is the first priority in the recovery process. If your roof is damaged, it will need to be tarped, and any other parts of your home will need to be sealed. Our professionals will also tackle any standing water or parts of your property that need to be dried out. If your home is severely damaged, you may need to consider a safe place to stay while restoration proceeds.
SERVPRO works with your insurance company to make sure your claim process is as easy as your recovery. It is our goal to help you stay as calm as possible throughout the entire process. Storm damage can be utterly devastating, but with our crew on hand your home and your life can get back on track quickly.
If a storm leaves your home damaged, contact us for fast recovery. We’re here 24⁄7 when you need us.
Dealing With Heavy Rain | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett on the case!
Rain can be either a blessing or a curse, depending on how and when it falls. On a hot day when the weather has been dry, a soaking rain is cause for celebration, leaving the earth moist and sweet-smelling and the temperature a little less high.
But hours and hours of rain, or a heavy rain after several other wet days can end up being a complete disaster. Heavy rains often come with other threats as well, including high wind and hail. All of this moist, intense weather can leave your home damaged and allow water to start seeping in.
At SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett, we want to ensure your home stays safe and your family stays dry through every storm. When you know how to handle the weather our town sees, you can take quick action to avoid damage.
Hazards of Intense Rain
Life in Michigan comes with a lot of beautiful weather, especially if you love snow. During the spring and summer, though, it is not uncommon to see heavy rainfall and even an occasional tornado.
With Lake Lansing so nearby, heavy rain can quickly result in flooding over the banks of the lake and flash flooding throughout town. Roads may become covered with water and the ground often becomes overly saturated, causing puddles that could push their way into your basements or foundations of your home. Flash floods can move fast enough to sweep away just about anything in their path.
You can’t prevent flooding when it comes from Mother Nature herself, but you can take some steps to prepare your home for it. One of the most important things you should do is keep up with the local forecast and always have two ways to receive weather alerts.
Staying Safe
Safety should always be your top priority when it comes to preparing your home and your family for weathering storms well. If a storm is approaching while you are at, do your best to get home. Make sure your family understands your communication plan before a storm rolls in so everyone can start reaching out to one another to ensure they are in a safe place.
Bring in as much as you can from outside in order to avoid losing things in a flood as well as damage to your home from debris. Park your car inside the garage and put away any outside furniture.
Inside your home, move irreplaceable items to a high location and store important papers in a water tight container. If water starts to come inside while you are home, move to a high location and stay there until the threat has passed. Try to avoid stepping into water that could have live electricity in it. Turn the power off ahead of storms when heavy flooding is predicted.
Future Prevention Strategies
As soon as you can safely do so, call us at SERVPRO to start drying out your home. Mother Nature may be unpredictable, but we are trained and ready to handle anything she throws at us. While we work on your restoration, we can also help you prepare your home to avoid another disaster in the future.
If your yard was washed out during the flood, or if water began puddling and ponding quickly during the storm, consider bringing in a professional to create better grading and add organic materials. This will help prevent ponding water and ensure rain rolls away from your home.
If you don’t already have one, a sump pump could be a great investment for your basement or crawl space under your house. These pumps keep water away from the foundation of your home, pumping it out before it can cause flooding.
Even the most prepared home can still take on water, but with restoration experts right around the corner, you can rest easy knowing that help is on the way as soon as you dial our number. We will get your home dry, sanitized and free of mold fast so you can get back to living.
We are here for all of your water disasters. Contact us day or night for a quick recovery.
Enjoying Fire Outdoors Safely | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.
Things are finally starting to cool down, and the end of a hot and humid summer seems very near. Fall is a wonderful season since we are able to get outside more and watch our town become more colorful. Pumpkins are everywhere, and the chill of winter hasn’t set in yet.
Colder evenings also make for the perfect time to gather with the family around a fire and spend some quality time eating too many sweets and sharing not enough stories. While you enjoy an evening around the fire pit, make sure you practice fire safety to keep your home protected.
A small fire can turn into a big disaster quickly, but with SERVPRO® right around the corner, we want to not only help you prevent damage to your property, but we also want you to know we can restore them fast when they happen.
Tips for Starting the Fire
When you plan on getting a fire going, keep in mind a few things you should do to stay safe:
Dofind a place that will be safe to have an open flame. Choose a location that is open and free of any structures, loose limbs or overhangs.
Do keep a good bit of water nearby. A bucket full or, if you can quickly turn it on, your hose at hands’ reach can stop a flame that gets out of control fast. You might also consider having dirt or sand nearby to shovel on the embers or potentially smother out anything headed in the wrong direction.
Do keep in mind what the weather is doing. Check the forecast the day of your bonfire, and if it is windy out consider choosing another day. Even if you are planning on using a fire pit that has a screen covering, having an open flame on a windy isn’t safe. Check on burn bans for your area too
Tips for While the Fire Is Hot
Once everything is going, avoid a few of these things in order to keep things safe:
Don’t use anything other than treated and approved wood to fuel your fire. Lighter fluid and gas can be very dangerous on an open flame, and tossing in trash can cause unpredictably high or hot flames.
Don’t allow the kids to run, throw balls or even walk near the flames. Keep chairs a safe distance from the fire and use long sticks to roast marshmallows.
Don’t make a bigger fire than you can handle. It is tempting to build the fire up big so you can sit back and just enjoy without having to feed the flames, but a single wandering flame can lead to a scorched backyard.
Don’t leave the fire unattended, including at the end of the night. Once you are done enjoying the fire, pour water over any remaining embers and stay until nothing is glowing red hot.
Wildfire Prevention
The vast majority of wildfires are started due to manmade errors. If you are going to have a fire outside, make sure you are doing everything you can to keep it safe. Make your fire small, use the right materials, and never walk away from hot embers.
If you experience a fire, large or small, call SERVPRO right away. We can restore your property quickly so that you can get back to enjoying the fall weather.
Fire can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.
Prepare Your Home for Storm Season | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett has your back when you experience flood and water damage.
East Lansing is no stranger to rainfall and occasional storms. When it comes to keeping your home safe from these events, taking proactive measures is crucial.
Storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, hail and floods, posing various risks that can lead to significant damages. Storm-proofing the exterior of your house is essential to prevent expensive repairs and safety risks.
Preparing for the Stormy Season
Protecting your home from storms doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In fact, many storm-proofing measures can be integrated into your regular routines.
Strong winds and heavy rain can be a concern wherever you live. In order to reduce the possibility of flying objects breaking windows or water collecting in your basement, trim the trees close to your property, check your gutters frequently and eliminate loose debris. When storms are approaching, remember to secure your patio furniture or locate a secure storage facility.
Inspect your property for any gaps or deteriorated wood. Maintaining caulking around window and door frames is crucial to prevent potential leaks during heavy rain.
Regularly check your roof after each wind event and at least once every four months. Replace any missing or loose shingles promptly and be vigilant for openings around gutters, edges or chimney areas.
Getting Your Home Ready
While many storm preparations can be done without having to pay additional costs, you may also want to consider some upgrades to prepare for our area’s inclement weather.
Purchasing storm shutters can be a wise move, especially if your house is in a location that’s vulnerable to high winds. You can also increase protection by upgrading your windows to stronger materials that can endure harsh weather. Gutter guard installation can help you avoid clogs and significant water damage, which is especially important if you have a number of trees around your property.
To ensure that sheds and modular homes are secure during strong storms, think about adding additional bracing or structural tie-downs.
Maintain constant awareness of the weather by setting up numerous alert systems, and designate a safe area of your house where you can quickly evacuate during severe storms.
If your home has been damaged, SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is available 24⁄7 to respond and provide quality restoration.
Is Your East Lansing Team Ready for Severe Weather? | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
If your home or business was damaged in a storm, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to get you back in action.
Being ready for any challenge that is thrown your way is essential to staying afloat as a business owner. You have the responsibility of training your employees for anything that occurs in the workplace, including severe weather.
While it’s no doubt important to prepare for common workplace obstacles, you’ll also need to get ready for the possibility of nasty weather interrupting your workplace. If you’re not prepared, local weather threats can sweep through and shut your business down for good.
Keep your crew from reacting inappropriately in the middle of a disaster by using this guide to ensure your workplace is fully prepared.
Know Your Risk
As you begin creating a plan for your business, you’ll need to know what kind of weather hits our area the most. Every area experiences its own unique set of weather conditions, so knowing what could affect your business will help you avoid chaos.
East Lansing sees severe weather like tornadoes, thunderstorms, floods and snowstorms. These conditions make a huge impact on our area each year, causing detrimental damage and forcing businesses to shut their doors.
Figuring out your flood risk is a good place to start when researching what could affect your business. Other things like checking the weather before each work week and having advisory notifications on can help you warn your team before the weather worsens.
Make a Plan to Communicate
Being able to communicate with your team will be crucial In the middle of a weather emergency. Nowadays, technology makes it easier than ever to communicate in the workplace.
Make sure everyone on your team is connected through the same system so they can receive real-time updates when severe weather strikes. This can help them gather any necessary supplies and prepare in an orderly manner.
Plan Your Evacuation
It can be scary to think about, but your team may end up needing to make a quick evacuation if severe weather gets too bad.
Let your crew know where to go when you need to evacuate and point out any exits. To ensure your employees know what to do when an evacuation is needed, run and drill and go over these areas.
During certain weather emergencies, an evacuation may not be safe; instead, you’ll need to shelter in place. Pick a safe area where everyone in your building can shelter until the storm blows over.
No matter how severe the weather gets, it’s important that your workplace stays calm! This will ensure everyone reacts appropriately if disaster strikes. Run through your escape plan, stay connected with your team and keep up to date with the local weather.
Don’t let extreme weather take control! If storms strike your business, SERVPRO® can help you restore your losses.
Prevent Fires All Around Your East Lansing Property | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
If you've experienced a house fire recently, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to restore your space back to preloss condition.
From the cozy comfort of your living room to the bustling hub of your kitchen, every area of your East Lansing home holds potential fire risks that demand your attention. While fires can occur in just about any room, there are a few trouble areas that are highly dangerous.
Fires pose risks both indoors and outdoors, making it essential to familiarize yourself with the common areas where they can ignite in each setting. It’s also helpful to have a professional crew at the ready if fires start on your property
Here are a few places you should pay close attention to as you work prevent fires in your East Lansing home:
Cook Up Kitchen Safety
The kitchen is the most common place for fires to spark, so you’ll need to stay mindful in this area. Many of the gadgets you utilize to cook are capable of sparking dangerous fires if you aren’t careful.
Your stove and oven are huge appliances that can create even bigger fires. Mistakes like leaving the room when food is cooking, setting cooking temperatures too high and having a dirty cooking space can all lead to flames.
Another hazard you’ll need to watch for in the kitchen is electrical fires. Tools like your toaster, blender and microwave use electricity can quickly cause fires when they are left to unattended or defects in wiring.
Stay Safe Outside
Even fires that spark outside your home can cause major damage. Flames won’t just have an impact on your property, though—they can spread quickly to the surrounding environment.
Grilling out is one of the most exciting activities to enjoy when the weather starts to warm up, but it can turn hazardous quickly when proper safety measures aren’t taken. Make sure to clean your grill before using it and always use it outside.
Fire pits are also an area to be aware of when you’re outdoors. Never light A fire pit if heavy winds are blowing, and don’t leave it to burn without supervision. Make sure to enjoy your fire pit from a safe at least 10 feet from your home as well!
Have Ways to Fight Back
It’s important to stay on top of your prevention efforts to protect your East Lansing home. While there can be ways to avoid disaster like keeping flammable objects away from heat sources and keeping your smoke alarms in good shape, sometimes fires can break out and cause damage despite your best efforts.
If flames break out unexpectedly, you’ll need a team that’s available day or night! Whether your fire starts indoors or outdoors, our SERVPRO® team can be on the scene quickly to repair damage before it gets any worse.
If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of East Lansing your first call.
On a scorching day, a mild breeze can provide a revitalizing retreat from the oppressive heat. Though the wind is invisible, it is an ever-present force that we can depend on, even when it is not ideal.
However, when the wind intensifies and transforms into a powerful gust, it can cause widespread destruction, leaving homes with terrible damage. While strong winds are typically associated with severe storms, they can arise unexpectedly on clear days.
Familiarize yourself with the potential consequences of high winds and how they can jeopardize your property, and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of your family and your home.
The Different Kinds of Wind
About half of all deadly wind events happen alongside severe thunderstorms, making them a hazard that is hard to avoid. Winds brought on by thunderstorms are known to cause much more destruction than tornadoes.
Debris can be dispersed across your yard, and structures can be severely damaged by thunderstorms’ winds, which can reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.
Straight-line winds, a form of thunderstorm wind, can be dangerously destructive, with speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. These winds are not related to rotation, unlike tornadoes, and can cause harm even in places where there is no precipitation.
The combination of various types of winds produced by tornadoes is responsible for their destructive power. East Lansing is vulnerable to tornadoes, which can cause considerable damage on occasion. Aside from tornadoes, strong winds caused by thunderstorms are another risk that residents and businesses in our area should be prepared for.
Wind Damage and Prevention
Severe winds can be incredibly destructive, with downed trees, scattered debris and damaged power lines being some of the most common types of wind damage. Even an anchored mobile home is not immune to these effects when winds exceed 80 miles per hour.
Familiarizing yourself with the various types of weather alerts related to high winds and taking preventive measures to secure outdoor objects can go a long way in reducing the impact of wind damage.
Make sure your trees are well-maintained, and remove any dead or weak branches overhanging your home. Don’t forget to secure any loose objects in your yard that could become flying projectiles.
After the winds have died down, make sure to inspect your home for any signs of damage. Be sure to check your roof for problems such as misplaced shingles, and repair any damage before water leaks inside. Turn to our expert SERVPRO team, and we’ll get your home back to its pre-storm state before you know it.
Has your home been damaged by wind? Call us and get things cleaned up fast.
Make Fire Safety Education Exciting for Your Kiddos | SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.
Raising children is undeniably fulfilling, yet it demands considerable effort. Your role as a parent is to foster their innate creativity and inquisitiveness. With this comes the challenge of ensuring their well-being without burdening them or causing unnecessary fear while trying to leave an important mark on their
The significance of instilling fire safety knowledge in children cannot be overstated, given the very normal fear surrounding house fires, regardless of age.
Teaching your kids about fire safety basics can significantly improve their ability to respond appropriately during a fire disaster.
Explain the Dangers of Fire
Experience is a key learning tool for children, since observing helps them learn. But you don’t want to go around starting fires in your home!
Discuss how fires may originate and grow, taking them through different parts of your home that use flames. By discussing safe practices in each location, they’ll have a better understanding of how fires start and how to avoid them.
It is critical to teach your children that matches and lighters have a purpose—and should not be played with. One lit match can have disastrous consequences, so it’s not a toy.
Familiarize Them With Authority
Authority figures can be intimidating to young children, so it can be helpful to familiarize them with firefighters through images and videos. To help your kids learn about these heroes, think about joining local community activities that allow your kids to interact with them in a calm setting.
It can be especially helpful for children to see firefighters all decked out in their full gear. All of those layers and tools can be intimidating even for adults, so kids should know what they look like ahead of time. If the firefighters can explain the purpose of the gear they wear, that’s even better!
Make a Game Plan Together
It is important for every family to create a personalized emergency escape strategy for their home. Involving your kids can help ensure they remember the lessons when disaster strikes. Consider turning it into a game by encouraging your kids to create a map containing pathways out of the house.
It’s also important to teach your children about how windows work so that they understand how to open them in case of an emergency. But they should also be taught that you should only open the window when instructed or during an actual emergency.
Finally, you should establish a designated safe spot outside where all family members can meet if a fire erupts. Once your plan is set, be sure to frequently rehearse it, ensuring your children know how to reach out for help once they have evacuated.
Fires can cause widespread damage. Call us for a thorough and efficient restoration.
Do You Know Where to Find Hidden Water Damage? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to find the source.
Water damage has several dangerous characteristics, such as the tendency to swiftly develop and cause extensive damage. Aside from these unpleasant qualities, water damage has a habit of remaining concealed until it manifests itself in the form of mold, leaks and expensive destruction.
The best way to keep your property secure from these hidden threats is to be able to detect emerging water damage before it progresses. There are numerous spots in your East Lansing home that you can monitor to guarantee that water damage does not develop before you can intervene and avert mayhem.
Be careful of the following areas in your home as you fight to keep hidden water damage at bay:
Your roof. Water damage on your roof can be tough to spot because you may not get up often enough to notice it!
Water damage that’s hiding on your roof can also develop extremely slowly over time, so you may notice a minor leak and dismiss it, only to have it turn into a huge problem as the concealed leak goes unchecked.
Concealed rook leaks can also seep into your attic, presenting another unnoticed problem. Sneaky water damage and excess moisture paired with a dim and damp atmosphere can also create a major mold problem on your roof and inside your attic.
In your bathroom. The bathroom is a popular place for sneaky leaks to emerge. Excess moisture and other forms of water damage can form around many of your commonly used appliances.
Wet areas can appear around your sink, and your faucet may begin to drip. Pay attention to issues like puddled water, an increase in moisture and a slow drain around your bathtub and toilet.
These may seem like issues you wouldn’t be able to ignore, but without a little bit of searching, they can be hard to find! Remember to check your plumbing often so you can find these concerns before they leave you with a ton of damage.
Other appliances. A few additional items in your Haslett house might hide water damage, much like your bathroom accessories. These concerns can go unnoticed since water can creep beneath and behind your large appliances.
To hunt for concealed water, move your appliances away from where they normally sit and conduct a thorough search.
It can also be beneficial to perform a brief inspection for concealed damage following each use of your devices. It’s a good idea to retire out-of-date equipment once they reach their shelf life or start to regularly malfunction so you can keep your home safe from any hidden damage.
Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!
Rely on SERVPRO for All of Your Restoration Needs | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
Is your home or business in need of restoration? SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is ready to help you recover.around the clock.
Every choice you make in regard to your home directly affects your sense of protection, stability and convenience. Some decisions, like remodeling your bathroom, don’t take as much time and energy as bigger tasks, like the crucial restoration of your home after a severe East Lansing storm.
When you require restorations right away, you should not rely on the first team you find. Certain companies may appear to be trustworthy on the surface, but the team you’re dealing with may be inexperienced and careless.
Trusting SERVPRO ensures that you’ve chosen the best team for the job. We have extensive training, making us well-versed in all the latest restoration techniques and practices.
We Adhere to Industry Trainings
Our SERVPRO professionals abide to the IICRC standards, and our team adheres to the restoration and cleaning instructions and rules. The courses we undergo include, but are not limited to:
water damage restoration
fire damage restoration
mold remediation
carpet and upholstery and cleaning
To give our employees the resources they require to be successful, we provide employee certification training. Because of the self-directed nature of this training, our personnel has they require to fully comprehend the steps and regulations.
We Never Stop Learning
After receiving and completing instructional materials as part of the initial training, our specialists are provided with access to ongoing training courses and e-learning options to ensure their knowledge is always fresh.
We are passionate about ensuring we have the resources needed to support every home and family in the area in overcoming major damage—and our training is what makes our response so effective.
Following the most recent information helps us to alter and update our procedures as required to fall in line with the current standards. Our team is confident that we have the supplies, knowledge and training to support you in recovering from disaster of any form.
Why This Matters for You
Choosing a crew that is knowledgeable and hardworking is a huge plus for you! Our team applies our expertise and training to provide a professional restoration so you can rest assured that you will return to a safe and secure home.
Trusting an unqualified repair team can be a huge mistake, and it might leave you to deal with more destruction than you started with. Teaming up with SERVPRO will ensure you get the help you need every single time.
When you need help recovering from a disaster, SERVPRO is here for you. Get in touch 24/7 to start your disaster recovery.
Weather Alerts Could Save Your Life During a Disaster | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If you suspect any damage to your home from a recent storm, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett.
Our national weather system uses at least 42 different kinds of weather alerts, split between seven categories depending on the type of event. This is too much information for the average person to comprehend in daily life, much less if they’re sheltering from a dangerous storm.
By knowing the meaning of warnings and advisories that could be issued, you’ll be able to make better decisions during extreme weather. In addition, you can take steps to keep your home protected from storms.
A good base of knowledge about severe weather is good to have, but more importantly, we should be aware of the risks that affect our area most frequently.
How Alerts Are Issued
Most people aren’t aware of how alerts are issued. It begins with the weather forecast, a prediction about future weather patterns. However, multiple factors affect these forecasts, and a lot of data is gathered to measure the severity and characteristics of a storm.
The National Weather Service is our country’s primary organization for all forecasting and issuing potential warnings. Across our nation, there are six offices and hundreds of sub-offices that cover almost the entire landmass. Here in Michigan, we’re covered by the Central Region headquarters, which watches most of the northern USA.
The NWS employs multiple types of personnel to observe and analyze geographical, wind patterns and many other kinds of data. The types of instruments used to collect data will vary based on the kind of weather event, but they always focus on providing accurate forecasts for all Americans.
The Most Important Alerts to Understand
The first thing that everyone should know about severe weather is the meaning of a “watch” and a “warning.” These words are frequently used in all kinds of storms, some being tornadoes, flooding and thunderstorms.
A watch will cover large regions, like multiple counties or even states. These alerts are indicating that storms are moving your way, and could become dangerous in the coming hours.
A warning is typically only used to cover singular cities or counties, although hurricanes can bring warnings for entire coastlines. These are signs that danger is coming very soon, and you should take steps to be prepared for disaster.
You should be aware of the weather that we see here frequently, as this will allow you to prepare for the most common disasters. In Michigan, East Lansing specifically, we see more than 60 inches of snowfall and only have about 170 sunny days per year, so we see storms almost every other day.
Protecting Your Home During a Storm
Besides knowing your emergency alerts, you can make efforts to prepare your home and mitigate potential damage to your property from weather events.
When the storm is gone, you should take plenty of photos or videos of the damage that your home has suffered. Afterward, give us at SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett a call. We’re always ready to jump into action and help you get back on your feet.
Learn the weather most common in your area, and pay attention to weather alerts so you can be prepared for the dangers ahead.
Experienced storm damage to your home or property? Contact us today for a quick response!
Do You Know The Signs Of Water Damage In Your Bathroom?
If you have water damage in your home or business, contact SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett today!
The signs of water damage can be difficult to spot if you don’t know what you’re looking for. And your bathroom is one of the places it’s most likely to hide. It’s important to find water damage in your home early because it can spread and worsen over time. If it’s stopped early and repaired, then you can avoid making bigger, more costly repairs in the future.
Your home is your family’s biggest investment, so protecting it is vital. You can do that by regularly looking for signs of leaks around your home. Learning what you should be looking for in your bathroom is a good place to start.
Signs You Could See
Here’s what you might see if you have a potential water issue in one of your home’s bathrooms:
Evidence of mold or mildew. Both mold and mildew can flourish in wet environments. Your bathroom might have black spots on your walls, shower curtain, around your tub or shower, or underneath your bathroom cabinets.
Wet spots on your walls or around the tub. If you see water spots or stains on your walls, it’s a sign that there could be a leak behind them. If you notice that, then it might be time to check your pipes for leaks and other issues. You’ll want to correct those and then repair any damage to protect your home.
Damage to the flooring or paint. Bubbling, peeling paint, buckling wood floors or cracked damaged tiles can all be possible signs of water damage. Again, you’ll want to fix these issues and repair any damage they’ve caused to ensure your home hasn’t been compromised by mold or water damage.
Wet spots on your ceiling. Not all signs of bathroom water damage are actually noticeable in the bathroom. Water spots and leaks from the ceiling can be signs that the plumbing in your bathroom is leaking if your ceiling issues are located directly below a bathroom. (Any ceiling leak should be investigated, though.)
If you see the signs of water damage anywhere in your home, take the time to get it evaluated and repaired correctly. It will serve you well in the long run—and possibly save you time and money.
From emergency cleaning and restoration to routine disinfection, we’re there for you. Contact us at any hour for a consultation or immediate assistance. Our teams are available to help you 24/7. Don’t wait to call us!
Why Select a Commercial Restoration Partner? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
Choose SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett as your commercial restoration partner!
As a business, you select an accountant or bookkeeper, a security firm, and possibly even a cleaning service. And when disaster strikes, you may have a hard-hitting recovery firm in mind, such as SERVPRO.
“But how often does disaster strike?” you may ask. Making arrangements for a disaster that hasn’t happened yet may not be at the top of your to-do list.
However, you can save time, money and headaches with a little preparation. And that includes partnering with a commercial restoration firm up front, so we’re ready to leap into action with advance knowledge of your particular needs.
An Extra Layer of Clean
The first thing a day-to-day partnership with SERVPRO can offer is deeper cleaning than a regular janitorial service. Whether you have high-traffic carpets, fryer hoods or even hazardous chemicals in your building, we have the special training and licensure to meet your needs.
Plan-Ahead Disaster Preparation
In the midst of a fire or flood, wouldn’t you like a partner who’s prepared? SERVPRO can keep your vital lists in one place: insurers, contractors, even the locations of any hazardous materials in your workplace that need to be quickly moved or remediated in in case of disaster. Known as the SERVPRO READY plan, this can help us respond faster and more thoroughly when the call comes.
We Do Paperwork, Too
Another important aspect of having a ready partner is that we can help with any paperwork related to disaster recovery. SERVPRO has many years of experience dealing with insurance companies, and we can help you ensure you have the documentation you need to get your claims covered.
Whether you’re looking for a long-term disinfection service, or need help restoring your property after an emergency, your SERVPRO team is ready to help. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.
What Makes Storm-Related Flash Floods So Dangerous | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If your home or business has been damaged by a storm, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett today!
Severe weather can be dangerous in many different ways—between lightning strikes, high wind and hail, there are countless ways that storms can cause damage. However, many people are surprised to learn that floods are the most dangerous severe weather incident of all. Floods are second only to heat when it comes to weather-related fatalities in the United States, and flash floods present the biggest risk.
Any type of flooding can be quite dangerous, but when it comes to flash floods, their sudden onset in addition to their ability to impact any area creates a deadly combination. Additionally, because any body of water can overflow during heavy rains, flash floods can impact any area—that is why we encourage people to always be aware of their risks and the top safety tips.
What Makes a Flood a Flash Flood?
A traditional flood will slowly begin to rise, while a flash flood must occur within the first six hours after a storm, but they often happen in as few as three hours. Flash floods tend to be more common in urban areas due to the possibility of blocked storm drains and drainage systems, and they can occur even in areas that are not situated low enough to be a regular flood concern.
What Are the Flash Flood Alert Guidelines?
Because flash floods can come about with little notice, if there is a storm and heavy rain in your area, you should always stay alert to local weather alerts so you have as much notice as possible in case waters near you start to rise.
Officials will issue a flash flood watch for a general area to encourage heightened concern, but if things progress to a warning, you will want to quickly take the proper precautions. If a flash flood emergency is issued, move to higher ground as quickly as you can, as these are rare and deadly conditions.
What Can I Do to Reduce My Flash Flood Risk Level?
It is important to prioritize safety for any severe weather event, but flash floods should be especially revered. Knowing the rules for safety can keep you and your family much safer if the waters suddenly begin to rise:
If rain is heavy for an extended period, tune into official weather warning channels.
Make sure you have a clear safety plan in place and that your family knows how to execute it.
If you come across floodwater, never attempt to cross it by car or on foot.
Avoid coming into contact with floodwater, as it can hide electrical currents and contaminants.
When evacuating, have alternate routes in mind in case yours is blocked by water.
If your home or business has been damaged due to a flood or other severe weather, you can depend on us.
A Few Simple Steps to Help You Prevent Home Fires | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.
As the temperatures continue to rise across the nation, so does our collective risk of fires. In fact, so far this year the American Red Cross has responded to over 20,000 house fires, and they can’t be everywhere at once, so this number is only a fraction of the total fires in the United States so far in 2022.
As they have since their inception, smoke detectors continue to be the most effective way to detect fires and prevent the damage or loss of life that they can cause. While everyone should have complete smoke alarm coverage, there are many other ways you can protect yourself and your home, many being simple cleaning tasks.
Cleaning Your Hot Zones
When it comes to your house, there are certain areas that stay hotter than others because of the appliances or features of the home in that area. In Michigan, we use appliances to heat our home and water more than most, so our appliances have a higher chance of starting fires purely because they’re turned on more often.
Some of these zones include air vents, the fireplace and chimney, and especially the kitchen. It’s important that you keep these areas clear of any blockages or excessive dust to reduce the risk of a fire.
The water heater is another high-risk area in your home. The outside boiler of the device gets so hot that it can ignite clothing, cardboard and paper with relative ease. Keeping this area clear and open allows proper airflow, and keeps flammable objects away from high levels of heat.
Dusty outlets and appliances are two more common sources of fire in the home. These spots get packed with dust that needs only a small spark to become a massive problem.
Properly cleaning behind, under and inside of your appliances and vents can significantly reduce the risk of a spontaneous fire. You should also ensure that all of your devices have plenty of space to circulate air and heat as they’re designed to do.
Create a Defensible Space in Your Yard
When fires are roaring outside, your yard is the last place they hit before knocking at your door. Recently, innovative landscaping techniques have become increasingly popular, as they are designed to protect your home and give ample room for firemen to stop the flames.
Fires have become such a major problem in our country, that states like California have begun to impose defensible zone requirements for the area surrounding a home. These requirements make homeowners clear excessive shrubbery and other fire risks to help stop them from igniting the building.
These strategies have been proven to be effective in slowing wildfires, but taking a note from them and doing the same to your property is a smart idea.
Utilizing these techniques will not prevent you from planting your gorgeous flower beds and tending to your garden—it focuses on you placing the plants in strategic positions. These recommended spots are designed to spread things out enough to reduce the possibility of the flames spreading.
Maintaining your yard is also an important part of homeownership. Clearing out and removing dead plants, leaves and limbs will take fuel away from the fire and could reduce the severity if it were to happen.
Keep It Clean & Keep It Safe
Along with maintaining your hot zones and cleaning up in your yard, a thorough spring-cleaning can help reduce your risk of a fire. It’s best to schedule a time with your family in the spring or summer to work together and knock it out.
These tasks often seem to pile up and weigh you down, but giving yourself plenty of time and setting goals can help you get through them. However, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to reduce fire hazards in the home—simple tasks like dusting help with fire prevention.
If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24/7.
SERVPRO Is the Team for All Your Restoration Needs | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is the team to call when your home or business has been damaged!
Needing repairs after an emergency to your home or business is never pleasant. It can also happen out of nowhere, leaving you scrambling to find a provider that can perform the necessary repairs in a timely manner.
Situations like these make having an experienced team like SERVPRO on speed-dial so crucial!
Situations like flooding or a fire can strike your East Lansing home or business without a moment’s notice. In order to receive the most optimal repair results for your property, many of these disasters necessitate a quick response and a well-trained crew.
Our team is more than capable of repairing any damage to your property. Here are some of the features that set SERVPRO apart from the competition:
We Have a Qualified Team of Workers SERVPRO’s most valuable asset is our highly trained staff. They’re the ones who work with homeowners and business owners to devise and implement a successful restoration strategy.
Our team receives initial and ongoing training to ensure that they are always up to date on the various types of disasters that can occur in a home or business. They hold certifications as well to equip them with knowledge in all areas of disaster, such as water restoration, fire damage repair, mold remediation, and any other residential or commercial cleanup.
We Have the Technology to Handle Any Disaster Complex property damage requires a complex solution! Our advanced equipment allows our crew to restore your property quickly and effectively.
Using tools like infrared cameras, extraction pumps and dehumidifiers, we are able to completely restore your home or business after any disaster.
When dealing with conditions like floods, floodwater can contain bacteria and contaminants that are unsafe for property owners to deal with on their own. When dealing with mold growth or the aftermath of water or fire damage, we can utilize advanced technologies to remove any odors or bacteria. We use tools that can control air quality and leave your property odor-free!
We’re Here for You 24/7 After an event like a leak on your property, mold can grow within 24 hours!
Situations like this require a prompt response to prevent any further damage. Our crew is available around the clock to respond to any residential or commercial disaster.
Don’t let the burden of a damaged home or business stop you from getting the help you need. SERVPRO can address the damage and restore your property to its preloss condition.
Why SERVPRO Is the Right Choice for Fire Restoration | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is the team you can count on!
A house fire is something that no one wants to experience, but unfortunately, they are a rather common occurrence. Focusing on fire safety efforts and putting together a fire evacuation plan are such important elements of keeping your family safe, but it is also important to have a plan in place for who you will call for restoration in the aftermath.
Having a plan in place for after a fire is an important aspect of preparedness, and if you are looking for a restoration partner for your home, we are the team you can trust. Read on to learn more about our fire damage restoration philosophy.
We Are Here for You 24/7, 365 Even with the best fire prevention efforts in place, house fires can happen unexpectedly, but whenever they do, we are here to help. We have an emergency response line available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year, so whether a fire breaks out in the middle of the night or on a holiday afternoon, you can count on us to respond to you quickly.
When you call us, we will immediately begin assembling a team and creating an action plan to handle your damage quickly.
We Understand Fire Damage Every fire is going to be different, but our expert restoration technicians have a deep understanding of what fire damage restoration takes. From addressing charring to water damage to smoke and soot in the far reaches of the home, we fully understand everything that makes up damage from a fire and how to address it.
We Aim to Make Things Easier Fires are a traumatic event, no matter how mildly or majorly they impact your home—and that is something we fully understand. That is why our goal is to make things as easy as possible for you throughout the restoration process.
From providing move-out services if you are in need of temporary housing to working directly with your insurance company, we can help. You can depend on us to be of assistance during each and every part of the fire restoration process.
If you need fire damage restoration, SERVPRO is the team you can count on. Get in touch today to learn more about our services.
How to Prevent Costly Damage to Your Business | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is your local commercial disaster team. Contact us to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services.
Due to their significance in society, it is important to keep local businesses healthy and productive. Between maintaining a positive work environment, training employees and dealing with paperwork, business owners have enough on their plate.
The last thing a business owner wants to worry about is the potential damage natural disasters can cause.
In only the last five years, the amount of damage caused by natural disasters has slowly but steadily increased. On average, the cost of damages has reached over $150 billion per year according to the NCEI.
Below is how to prevent the commonly caused damages when disaster strikes:
Water Damage
Anywhere in the United States, water and flooding can be an issue. But in areas where snowfall is heavy and constant, ice presents a slightly different threat. As the ice melts and turns into water, it can cause severe damage to your commercial property.
When precipitation is heavy, the local rivers can fill up and cause flooding as well. It is important to check the areas around your business that are prone to letting water seep in. One way to reduce these effects is to landscape routes to control the flow of water and direct it away from the building structure.
Additionally, once water does get in, it is imperative to attack it right away. To see where water has affected your building, look for warping and discoloration on your walls, ceilings and even floors. Once wood begins to rot, it can become a very expensive problem in a very quick manner.
Storm Damage
Even at a lower intensity, storm damage can shake trees, cause power outages and launch small debris into the air. At a higher level, storm winds can exceed 100 mph and tear trees from the ground.
While the damage can be extreme and wretched, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the damage it can cause to your business and your community. Firstly, secure any loose furniture/decorations outside your business. This signage and furniture can become deadly projectiles.
Next, you should check the areas on your exterior to make sure they’re sealed and secure. Doors, windows and roofs should be inspected to reduce the chance they’ll go flying when these storms happen.
Storm-protective window covers can help prevent the damage caused in the event of an emergency.
Know Who To Call
Whether it’s winter-based flooding or gale-force winds tearing through your area, it’s best to be prepared for anything and everything. Even simple actions of prevention can save money, resources and lives.
In the event that damage does occur, however, we are available 24⁄7, allowing us to promptly respond to any kind of disaster. Our expert team can identify the most beneficial restoration plan and implement it in the correct way.
If you have experienced damage to your business or want to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.
SERVPRO Is the Restoration Company to Trust | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
No matter the damage sustained, SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett has the tools and team to help your home return to a normal state quickly.
SERVPRO is a full-service cleaning, restoration and construction company—and we’re here to assist you in recovering from even the most catastrophic natural or manmade disasters.
Consider the following property damage scenarios that may arise in East Lansing and how we can provide assistance:
Water Damage
Flooding may occur at any moment and can do significant damage regardless of whether if it is an inch or a foot deep. Each year, flooding costs the United States around $10 billion in damages nationwide.
If you own a house or business, you almost certainly will encounter flooding over your lifetime, and SERVPRO is ready to help if it does. We’ll assist you in determining the extent of the damage, enabling you to make the best repair decisions available.
We have the technologies necessary to find and eliminate hidden moisture. Additionally, we’ll work with you to build a water damage restoration strategy that will guarantee your house is cleaned, dried, and returned to its preloss state.
Fire Damage
Every 23 seconds in the United States, a fire department responds to a fire, and property damage from fires that total roughly $8.1 billion in damages yearly. If your house or company has been damaged by fire, we will immediately begin the restoration process with our seven-step restoration technique.
This procedure begins with an estimate and damage assessment and continues through all required pre and post-repair and construction activities.
Storm Damage
Storms may cause flooding and wildfires, in addition to tornadoes, hurricanes, strong winds and blizzards. The main concern in East Lansing is tornadoes. In fact, East Lansing has a substantially greater risk of tornado damage than the rest of Michigan and a higher risk than the national average.
Storm and flood damage may wreak havoc on your home’s structure and contents. Our objective is to promptly re-establish you in your newly restored property after storm damage. SERVPRO also specializes in content and document restoration with a focus on reusing materials wherever possible.
Dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleaning and abrasive cleaning are all included in our cleaning services. If your property needs a more thorough cleaning, we provide move-out services so that we can quickly restore your property to its preloss state.
What Sets SERVPRO Apart?
We are here to help you whenever you want assistance. 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you may contact a SERVPRO specialist by dialing our 24/7 Emergency Line.
Our professionals are members of the biggest cleaning and restoration team in the country, with over 50 years of expertise. We are independently owned and run, but we are backed by a network of over 1,900 locations across the United States, so you can be certain that we will promptly restore your home or business to a “Like it never even happened” condition.
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.
Responding to a Storm Watch vs. a Storm Warning | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If severe weather has damaged your home or business, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett today!
Any time severe weather becomes a threat, it is important to be prepared for all the possibilities it brings. Heavy rains, strong winds, hail, flash floods and tornado threats are all common during bouts of severe weather, and all of these things can cause damage in addition to increasing the risk of injury or fatalities.
If severe weather is possible, staying aware of local officials’ weather updates is key, as is knowing how to respond to them. Understanding alert systems, such as watches, warnings and emergency sirens for your area, can help you make smart decisions about how to respond and stay safe when the weather turns nasty.
Understanding a Severe Weather Watch vs. a Severe Weather Warning
A severe weather watch will be issued when conditions are favorable for the severe weather event to occur. For example, a flash flood watch may be issued during periods of heavy rain, while a tornado watch may be issued when conditions look like those that are often related to tornadoes forming.
A severe weather warning is issued when the event is actively happening—so if flooding is reported, or if a tornado is spotted on radar or on the ground, a watch would be issued for these events.
Reacting to a Severe Weather Watch vs. a Severe Weather Warning
Because a severe weather warning means that conditions are favorable but the event is not actively occurring, a warning being issued is your sign to stay vigilant. Tune into local broadcasts for updates and stay close to a safe area in case you quickly need to take shelter from whatever event is at hand.
When a severe weather warning is issued, that means to seek safe shelter immediately. For a tornado, this would mean to get to your emergency shelter area. For a flood, this would mean to move immediately to higher ground.
Because time is extremely limited in these situations, it is important that you do not wait until after a watch is issued to plan what you should do—instead, have your safety plan mapped out well in advance so you can quickly take cover when and if necessary.
If you experience damage from severe weather, we are the team you can count on for restoration. We are here 24/7 to respond quickly. Contact us today.
When You Need Restoration, We Are the Team to Call | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett are your restoration experts!
Needing restoration to your home is never going to be an enjoyable process, but when you find yourself in that situation, you can count on us. Whether you need restoration due to damage caused by a fire, a leak, a storm, a flood or another type of issue, we have the experience and the capability to perform your restoration with care.
While it may feel premature to consider this before sustaining damage to your home, it is a wise thing to consider in advance so that you know who to call right away.
We know that you have a lot of options when it comes to damage restoration in East Lansing, but we think the SERVPRO team is a cut above the rest. Read on below to find out what makes our approach so unique and why you should choose us for all of your restoration needs.
Why to Choose SERVPRO When You Have Damage to Your Home
We understand the unique situation surrounding damage. While damage from a water leak may feel inconvenient, it is far less traumatizing than the damage that a house fire might cause, for example. We have helped many families in the area recover from serious damage events, and we are here to help you, too. We understand the unique circumstances surrounding an event such as a house fire or flood and will do everything in our power to help you recover.
We have the expertise to handle all aspects of damage. When you choose us for restoration, you are choosing a team that can handle whatever elements of your home have sustained damage. We are equipped to deal with fire damage, water damage, mold damage and more, so there is no job too advanced for the SERVPRO team to handle.
We are always here for you. Unfortunately, household damage does not follow a predictable schedule, and it often feels like these things pop up at the worst possible time. The good news is that whenever you discover damage, you can be certain we will be there. We are here 24/7, 365 days a year so you can always get in touch with us.
If you have damage to your home, let us be the team you count on. Get in touch today to learn more about our process or to discuss restoration!
We Can Restore Your Business After Any Disaster | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
Let SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett restore your business!
A workplace disaster is inconvenient for a variety of reasons. When an emergency shuts down your business, productivity suffers, and some organizations never recover. Equipment is damaged, customer contact is lost and you are left to deal with costly damage.
When it comes to your business, time is money! That is why SERVPRO’s quick and professional restoration services are the answer to any workplace damage. We have the tools to get your East Lansing/Haslett business back on track, regardless of the size of the damage.
Discover all the areas of damage that we can help you repair:
Fire damage. Fire damage is a devastating event, especially for commercial properties. Following a fire, your company is left with damaged property and possessions that must be repaired or rebuilt. We can begin repairing the damage caused by the flames as soon as you contact us.
Water damage. Appliance leaks, roof leaks and leaky pipes are all common causes of water damage within the workplace. Water damage can develop fast, so early restoration is critical to protecting your business. SERVPRO can quickly be on the scene to address any water damage to your property.
Storm recovery. Severe weather can have disastrous effects on your business. When damage occurs, productivity is halted, and your office could be left in disarray in some circumstances. We have the resources to clean up and rebuild any damage caused by flooding, hail or severe winds.
Mold remediation. Mold is a hazard that can arise as a result of excess moisture from water damage or floodwater. Mold can develop on damp surfaces within 24 to 48 hours after water damage, so fast action is required. SERVPRO can assess your mold growth and provide the best approach to remediate the damage to your business.
What We Do to Restore Your Business Every disaster necessitates its own restoration method. We can examine the damage to your business and come up with a solution.
We can quickly detect and measure moisture in your company’s floors, ceilings and walls using technologies such as an infrared camera for issues such as water damage or flooding. In some cases, standing water must be removed; we can collect water efficiently using submersible and gas-powered pumps.
Mold infestations are treated by our experts by detecting and contaminating mold to prevent it from spreading. We use antimicrobial techniques to element mold and stop the spread. From there, we can deodorize and sanitize your entire business to restore it to preloss condition.
Our approach to fire damage restoration begins with an examination of the flame and smoke damage. Our SERVPRO team then uses specialized equipment to remove any smoke or soot from your business’ ceilings, walls and other surfaces. We may then clean and deodorize your company’s structure or any items impacted by flames.
SERVPRO is the solution to any workplace disaster. We can quickly remediate any damage and get your business back up and running! Contact us today.
Home Restoration Services Make a Difference | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
Contact SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett today. We work with you and your insurance company to get things back to normal quickly.
If you have sustained fire or water damage to your home, there are few things more important than choosing the right team to work with for restoration.
The time after your home is damaged can be disorienting. Many homeowners aren’t entirely unsure of what to do after they discover damage to their homes.
The right first step is to be sure you’re calling a restoration company you can trust. You’ll want to ensure the restoration company you choose will do the job well.
Damage Is a Common Problem
There’s a common misconception about dealing with home damage—that it’s rare.
People hate thinking about it, but the truth is that home damage is very common. Millions of homeowners are faced with situations that damage their homes every year.
Don’t worry. Instead, use this information as a motivation to have a plan in place. Knowing how to choose your restoration partner is key.
We want to be our area’s preferred restoration partner. That is exactly why we prioritize our technicians’ training when they join our team.
Education Is a Difference-Maker
We provide excellent service, and that’s on several levels. It includes response time, availability and training. We take special pride in the level of training our technicians to receive.
Members of our team earn valuable certifications through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. This non-profit group provides various certifications to ensure restoration and cleaning technicians can use the latest proven techniques when restoring your home.
That means that when you call on SERVPRO for help restoring your home, you can be assured you’re working with the best.
If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available 24/7 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.
What Fire Safety Efforts Make the Biggest Difference? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If you are trying to implement more fire safety around your house, you may be overwhelmed by how many ways a fire can start—and how many ways there are to prevent them! Household fires are extremely common and can be rather dangerous, but taking proper fire safety efforts can significantly reduce your risk levels.
While any fire safety efforts are worthwhile, it is important to understand the impact that yours have on your home and where your attention is best concentrated. Below, we will share our most important fire safety tips so you can be certain that you are prioritizing the right things around the house.
Which Fire Safety Efforts Are the Most Important
Installing and maintaining smoke detectors. Many home fire deaths occur due to fires starting while people are sleeping, and thus those inside get a late notice to escape the home. Installing smoke detectors in every main area of the home and outside of every sleeping area is the best way to increase your overall fire safety in the home. While these smoke detectors should be checked monthly, this is an easy and inexpensive way to give your household fire safety a boost.
Keeping a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Cooking is a leading cause of household fires, and because stoves, ovens and toasters all pose a fire risk, it is not surprising as to why. Always practicing cooking safety tips, such as keeping flammable items away from the stove, is a great strategy, but it is also wise to keep a fire extinguisher on hand to quickly address any flare-ups that do occur.
Creating a home fire escape plan. In the event of a house fire, there are often only two minutes to escape to safety, so knowing exactly how to escape is a must. Planning out a fire escape plan for your home, ensuring that every area of your house has two exits and practicing your fire evacuation process regularly are all important to ensuring that everyone in the household is able to get to safety should a fire start.
If you have fire damage in your household, we are here to help. You can get in touch with us 24/7 to learn more about our process or to report damage to your home.
Does Your Business Need Flood Insurance? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If your home or business has been damaged by a flood, call your friends at SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett today!
Commercial insurance can be a complex thing. There are a lot of things that your business’ policy is likely to cover by default, including storm damage and fire damage—but unfortunately, as far as the insurance industry is concerned, flood damage is a completely separate category.
Floods can occur due to heavy rainfall, pipe backups, overflowing bodies of water and other hazards, and cause serious damage along the way. As little as an inch of floodwater can cause around $25,000 in damage by some estimates, and if your insurance policy does not extend to cover this, it will be an out of pocket expense for your business.
If you think you may need flood insurance, keep reading so you can determine what is best for your operations.
Determining if Your Business Needs Flood Insurance
Consider your location specs. While it is not an entirely solid indicator, one of the best things to consider when it comes to your flood risk is your business’ location and layout. If you are in an area that is a known floodplain, that will certainly be a factor in your decision to purchase flood insurance, but even if you are not, you may be at risk. If your business is located near a body of water, or your layout is such that you have valuable items and equipment stored on a ground floor, you may still want to consider flood insurance.
Consider what is covered by flood insurance. Policies can vary, but in general, the property outside of your building is not typically covered—this would include property such as landscaping and septic systems. Flood insurance also does not usually cover business vehicles, but if you have these, you can typically add these on to your policy when you sign up for it.
Consider how much coverage you will need. Usually, commercial flood insurance will provide up to $500,000 of coverage for your building, plus an additional $500,000 for its contents. If you need more coverage, you can purchase an excess insurance coverage policy, which will include additional cash value as well as business interruption insurance.
If your business is damaged by a flood, you can count on us to help. Get in touch today to learn more about our commercial flood restoration options.
What to Watch for in Regard to Basement Water Damage | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is a full restoration company. Our restoration experts are ready to help you determine the best course of action.
If you are considering purchasing a home with a basement or you already live in one, you are likely no stranger to just how useful basement spaces can be. Not only are basements a great option for extra storage and sheltering from severe weather, but they can also be used as extra living space if it is possible for them to be fully finished.
That being said, there are some downsides to basements as well—namely, their propensity for water damage. While some basements will never have water damage, most are somewhat susceptible to it.
Fortunately, by simply knowing what to look for, homeowners can ensure that they are keeping an eye out and are able to treat any water damage issues as soon as they arise. If you suspect basement water damage, it is important to have it handled as soon as possible.
What to Keep an Eye Out for to Prevent Basement Water Damage
Unpleasant, musky odors. When we see water damage in basements, it is typically clean water such as rain or clear pipe water, but that does not mean that it can’t still cause odors. When water seeps into an area where it should not be, it can give rise to mold and mildew growth. As the water evaporates and the mold is left behind, an odor can break out and be the first sign that you may have water damage on your hands.
Flaking paint on masonry or walls. Oftentimes, homeowners will see an area susceptible to water damage and paint it, in the hopes that this will seal the water damage in. Unfortunately, if there is a legitimate water damage problem, it will certainly still find a way to work itself into the area. This can lead to paint that peels, cracks, warps, bubbles or flakes, which is a sign that there is underlying water damage trying to work its way through.
Foundational cracks. As a home settles and shifts with weather and age, it is not uncommon for small cracks to develop throughout the home. As long as these remain hairline cracks, there is no cause for concern. However, if larger cracks develop on walls, ceilings or in the floor that is a sign that there is potentially water damage and you should have someone come take a look right away.
If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.
Do You Have a Plan in Place for Your Business? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett will be there to help.
When you manage a business, you not only have full-time job duties, but you also have a never-ending to-do list. There’s no doubt you have a lot on your plate, whether it’s staffing or payroll, inventory or marketing.
But if you aren’t prepared for disasters, all of your hard work could be in jeopardy. You’ve put in a lot of effort to get to where you are now. Don’t you want to do everything you can to ensure that your company can weather any storm?
Because businesses are so busy, it is easy to let some things slip the mind. One of those things oftentimes is disaster preparedness. When a fire, hurricane or any type of disaster hits a business, it’s often difficult or impossible to get it back up and running.
According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses close permanently following a disaster, and a significant portion of those that do reopen close again in less than a year.
When devastation strikes your company, having a strategy in place for what you’ll do ahead of time might be the difference between survival and failure. Three-quarters of small businesses in the United States don’t have a disaster plan in place. Businesses that are prepared for a disaster are the ones who come out on the other side.
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett assists companies in our area in preparing for disasters by developing a Emergency Ready Plan that is tailored to a company’s needs, location and industry. Your business will be able to minimize downtime if you have a strategy in place since you’ll know what to do if disaster hits.
Natural disasters are already obstacles in and of themselves. Make every effort to ensure that you are prepared to bounce back if one strikes. We’re here to assist you with your Emergency Ready Plan today.
When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO to get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery.
Have You Prepared a Storm Safety Procedure? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett right away.
Winter storms can be rough here in Michigan, but we shouldn’t forget about the severe weather that comes with spring. These storms can cause events like lightning, rain, winds, flooding and hail, all capable of damaging your home or business. It’s crazy to think about, but there are around 100,000 thunderstorms throughout the United States every year, which is almost 2,000 per week!
In Michigan, we are closely acquainted with extreme weather, but we’re not afraid of it. Disasters like blizzards, nor’easters and even extreme flooding that cost our local community over $2 billion in repairs.
It would be nice to hit a button and get rid of any dangerous weather, but unfortunately, we can’t do that. However, you can— and should—prepare for storms by building an emergency kit, planning a good strategy for communication and taking action to be ready for when storms strike nearby.
Your Severe Weather Communication Strategy
During emergencies, it’s crucial to have proper lines of communication with your loved ones and with your local government. Paying attention to the alerts in your area and knowing the difference between watches and warnings will ensure that you know what the next move is.
Second, it’s a smart idea to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts from officials. Television works great, but storms often knock out the signal, and cellphones always seem to run out of battery right when you need it most. An NOAA weather radio with spare batteries close by is your best bet to stay informed.
Lastly, developing a thorough communication strategy for your family members is key. This lets you stay in touch with loved ones and eases your mind by knowing that they’re safe. For the people in the house, having a specified location to shelter is also important—pick a spot that’s away from any windows like a large closet.
Your Severe Weather Emergency Kit
The term emergency kit seems complex, but it can be simplified by thinking about what you and your family members will need for 72 hours or more of sheltering in place. These kits typically include nonperishable food, a lot of water, working flashlights, extra batteries and first-aid supplies.
These kits should be kept in your designated safe room so that you can access them when you take shelter. By taking this extra step, you will be more prepared for the potential disasters that come from storms.
Your Severe Weather Aftermath Checklist
When you have received the all-clear and it’s safe to leave your safe room, there are a few extra steps in being prepared for severe weather. Addressing your home’s condition comes first, and you need to do a check for property damage.
If you uncover damage during your property check, you can always call us day or night. At SERVPRO of East Lansing/ Haslett, we pride ourselves on being restoration professionals with 24/7 availability to come to your rescue. So when damage happens, reach out to us and have your home or business back to preloss condition as soon as possible.
Finally, after assessing your home for damage, it’s always good to go through your safety plan and look for ways to improve. Explore where things went wrong, or what things went right, and build on that for the next time you face extreme weather. Taking these steps and calling your local experts can help you stay safe and keep your home or business in working order
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.
What to Know When Making a Fire Escape Plan | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If your home or business has been damaged by a fire, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett today!
House fires are extremely dangerous for a number of reasons. Not only can they cause serious damage to your home, but they can also spread rapidly when they begin—which can put anyone in the home in harm’s way. While we all hope we will never find ourselves in this situation, it is better to be prepared than to be caught off-guard, which is why a home fire escape plan is a must.
Making a plan for your household is important, as it will help everyone act quickly in the event of a fire so they can get to safety. If you are new to drafting your fire escape, we have included some key things to note below.
What to Know About a Household Fire Escape Plan
Time is of the essence. Because of how quickly fires can spread, being able to escape the home quickly in an emergency situation is key. Everyone in your household should be able to execute an escape route in less than two minutes to maximize their ability to get to safety. This is why having a clear plan of action and running through practice drills is so important.
Multiple exits are key. While there are some places a fire may be more likely to break out, such as at the stove or around a space heater, there is no way to know for sure how a fire could start or begin to spread. For this reason, it is important that every area of the home have at least two exits that are accessible—that way, if one is blocked by flames, someone could use the other route to escape. In some cases, you may need to purchase emergency ladders for second-story windows to make this possible.
Teamwork is a must. Depending on the members of your household, you may want to incorporate a buddy system into your fire escape plan. If you have young children, older adults or pets that will need assistance in escaping, make sure it is clear in advance which member of your household will be responsible for helping them get to safety.
If you have damage to your home due to a fire, we are here to help. We’re here 24/7 to start the restoration process—contact us today.
Your Business Can Count On SERVPRO® Team When Minutes Matter | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If you were asked how many tornadoes hit Michigan, on average, what would you guess the answer was?
It’s 17. While the numbers vary each year, the Great Lakes State will have an average of 17 tornadoes touch down every storm season. (If you’re interested, you can check out the number of storms every year since 1950 through the Lansing State Journal.)
These seasonal storms can cause big problems, especially when they hit homes and businesses in our communities. If a disaster happens, it’s vital to begin the reconstruction process as quickly as possible.
That’s where we can help you. When your business is damaged, you’ll want to begin the rebuilding process as soon as you can. It’s vital to keep your business open and thriving—and relevant in the community.
We’ll be here to help you with this important task if a tornado, severe storm, blizzard or accident impacts your business. Here’s a closer look at why we’re the right choice for you:
Our technicians have all the relevant certifications. Whether you’re looking for help dealing with water damage, fire damage, smoke damage, mold or something else, our team is prepared to help your business thrive.
The technology we use is advanced. Because we’re associated with SERVPRO, we have access to leading-edge technology that can be used on our jobs. When this technology is in the hands of our highly trained and skilled technicians, it can make a big difference.
We create personalized plans for our clients. Our teams take everything into account when we build a plan to restore your business. You’ll know it’s based on our expertise.
You can reach our experts at any time. Timing is vital, so we have team members who are ready to guide and support you 24/7. Don’t wait to call us and get your business restoration project started!
Whether you’re looking for a long-term disinfection service or need help restoring your property after an emergency, your SERVPRO team is ready to help. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action. We’re ready to help you get your business ready to open again.
SERVPRO Offers a Full Spectrum of Services | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to get the job done.
When we designed our SERVPRO vans and trucks, we were intentional about a lot of things. Subtlety was not one of them.
When you see a bright green SERVPRO van pulled into someone’s driveway in East Lansing, we want your mind to immediately recall all the amazing services we can provide for home and business owners who need them. So the next time you pass a SERVPRO company vehicle, here’s what you can remember, so you can call us first if it happens to you.
Water damage recovery. One of the main afflictions of homeowners is water damage, whether from natural causes or something popping in the home. No matter the source of the problem, we have the solutions you need to get dried out again.
Fire damage recovery. Fires are incredibly common in U.S. homes, with another one happening every 23 seconds. Fire can be devastating, but we can help you recover.
Mold removal. Mold is incredibly potent, and left alone, it can threaten the integrity of your home’s structure. And trying to remove it yourself can actually make matters worse.
Storm recovery. Storms are unpredictable, and they can cause a wide array of damage. When your home is on the unfortunate end of a storm’s wrath, we can get things turned around.
Commercial needs. Businesses of all kinds also meet with fire, water and mold situations, and they also have special needs for cleaning, sanitation and more. We help businesses around the country with all these things and more.
General cleaning. Listen, you don’t have to go and let a flood take over your basement to take advantage of SERVPRO’s exceptional service. We can help you any old day, when your home needs some attention.
Specialty cleaning. We take the mess out of crime scenes, graffiti incidents and any place you can imagine. We’ve got the tools and talent to restore any place that needs cleanup or beautification.
Construction. When your needs go beyond cleaning, we’ve got you covered then, too. No disaster is too big for us to handle, even if it means your home needs full-blown reconstruction, right down to the studs.
Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done.
The Most Common Types & Causes of Flooding | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.
Flooding is the most widespread natural disaster, claiming more lives each year in the United States than hurricanes, tornadoes or lightning. It can have an impact on anything from individual houses whose property gathers surplus water to whole towns and cities.
Flooding affects all 50 states and every U.S. territory, although there are commonalities in their varieties and causes. There are three forms of floods, and they generally occur because of four different causes.
3 Types of Natural Flooding
Flash floods commonly occur when heavy rain passes or sits over a region and overwhelms the ground’s capacity to hold the moisture. Excess water rushes off, carrying anything with it from trash, automobiles and other debris with it.
River flooding is precisely what it sounds like. When a river’s banks are unable to retain the surplus water, the water spills over the brink, causing the areas around the river to be flooded, often causing significant damage.
Coastal floods occur when storm surges or cyclonic activity force ocean or gulf levels to rise to flood levels in places near significant bodies of water.
The 4 Most Common Causes of Natural Flooding
Heavy rainfall. Excessive rainfall from storms, or storms that sit and linger over a region for a lengthy period of time, may generate flash floods or river flooding. Rain floods are more likely in urban areas because of the increased proportion of concrete and asphalt, which means there isn’t enough soil to absorb all that water. Over the next 30 years, over 3,000 properties in Lansing have a higher than a 25% probability of being severely impacted by floods. This equates to 7% of all homes in the city. Flooding may create a whole host of problems for Lansing citizens, including disruptions to utilities, first responder services, transportation and highways, all of which have a negative influence on the area’s economic well-being.
Oceanic activity. Storm surges, hurricanes and high tides can cause water levels to increase in waves, which can wreak havoc on coastal cities.
Dams and levees failing. The most recent example would be the tragic levee breakdowns during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. When fractures form in levees or dams, or when excess pressure exceeds the dam’s capacity to control the surge of water behind it, the structures break.
Snowmelts and ice dams.. Snow and ice may accumulate over the course of a winter in areas of the nation where heavy snow and extended freezing temperatures are prevalent, and when they begin to melt, they produce rivers of water to pour through nearby cities. Ice dams, also known as ice jams, occur when rivers get blocked by built-up ice transported downstream, forcing 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.
Storm Watches, Storm Warnings & Other Safety Tips to Note | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
All too often, severe weather is underestimated. Because thunderstorms often move through areas without causing significant damage, there is a tendency for people to assume that every storm will be minor—unfortunately, this could not be further from the truth.
Storms are powerful and complicated things, and it is important to remember that staying safe is so important.
Safety from severe weather is not something to be taken lightly, and it is much easier to stay safe if you know the proper terminology and what it means for you. Below, we will be looking at the difference between severe weather watches and warnings, and including a few key safety tips so you and your household can stay protected.
The Difference Between Storm Watches and Warnings
What Is a Watch? When a watch is issued, be it for a severe thunderstorm, flood or tornado, that means that conditions for these weather events are favorable—as in, there is a strong chance that they could occur. However, when a watch is issued, the weather event is not actively occurring, and is only possible.
What Is a Warning? When a warning is issued, that means that the weather conditions in question are actively occurring or have become imminent. This means a severe storm has developed, a tornado has been spotted or flooding is happening somewhere within the area, and those in the warning district should quickly get themselves to safety.
Other Safety Tips for Severe Weather
In addition to knowing the difference between a watch and a warning, it is also wise to take note of other safety tips for protecting yourself and your loved ones in the event of severe weather.
Know where to shelter, whether at home or out and about, if severe weather becomes imminent.
Keep a weather radio on hand so you can get updates even if cell phone networks fail.
Know where your local shelters are in case you must evacuate your home.
Keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your at-home sheltering area so there is no need to leave until it is safe to do so.
If you have storm damage to your home, you can count on us to help. We are here 24/7 to provide storm restoration services—contact us today to learn more.
What Fire Hazards Should I Be Aware of Around the Home? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If you had a fire in your home, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett today!
Experiencing a house fire is a terrible thing. Not only can they cause extreme amounts of damage, but they can also cause injuries and fatalities to anyone caught in their path. In 2020, house fire damages amounted to $12 billion and occurred in nearly 500,00 homes.
While there is no way to be certain you are preventing a fire in your home, you can certainly take concrete steps to reduce the likelihood that one will occur. Simply understanding what fire hazards there are to be aware of within the home can go a long way in helping you take proper steps towards prevention.
Common Fire Hazards to Be Aware of at Home
Overloaded Electrical Outlets
Electricity has become integral to daily life, but in many homes, the supply of outlets is not able to keep up with demand. This can lead to the outlets that are accessible becoming overloaded with extension cords, causing too much voltage to be pumped through them—and this is a serious fire hazard. If your home does not have enough outlets, it is worth investing in an electrician to add in more or being more selective with the things you leave plugged in.
Unsafe Kitchen Habits
Kitchen fires are consistently the most common type of house fire, which is not surprising given that there is quite a bit of opportunity involved. Between stovetops, ovens, toasters and other appliances, there are many things within the kitchen that can ignite a fire, and these can be exacerbated by unsafe habits. Make sure that you and anyone else who uses the kitchen in your home does so with safety as top of mind.
Irregular Dryer Lint Cleaning
Your dryer’s lint tray serves an important function when it comes to doing laundry, but it can also become a fire hazard if it is not emptied often. When the dryer heats up, the highly flammable lint within the tray can catch fire, so it is best to clean out your lint tray with every cycle of laundry in order to be safe.
If you have a fire in your home, we are the team to call. We are here 24/7 to help with restoration—contact us today to learn more or get started.
Why SERVPRO Is the Right Choice to Handle Your Water Damage | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
Experiencing water damage in your home is a dreadful occurrence. Whether the damage is major or minor, taking care of the aftermath of water damage can feel like quite the headache—and finding the right team to help you through the process can require extensive research and review. Plus, given that acting quickly after water damage is key, it can be difficult to know where to turn when you discover moisture in your home.
For any homeowner, the best time to consider who you would like to work with for damages is long before the damage occurs. So whether you have discovered water damage or are just doing your research, read on to learn a little bit more about our unique approach to the process.
Why You Want Us to Handle Your Water Damage
We have the equipment to detect moisture. While there are many signs that water damage may be afoot in your home, water damage can often be like an iceberg: What you see is only part of the story. That is why we have invested heavily in our fleet of equipment. With our moisture detection technology, we will be able to locate all the water damage in your home (even if it is hidden) and do a full restoration so you do not have any issues arise later on.
We understand the full process of water damage restoration. Water damage can be a tricky thing, and if it is not treated quickly and properly, it can rapidly give rise to secondary issues such as mold and mildew growth throughout the home. With our technology and expertise, we are able to fully restore any moisture damage and remediate any mold growth to properly handle the issue right away.
We are here when you need us. Handling water damage is imperative to preventing serious secondary issues from arising—which is why we are here to help 24/7. You can call us at any hour to report damage, so no matter when you discover moisture-related issues, you can be certain we will have a team of restoration experts dispatched to you quickly.
If you have water damage in your home, you can count on us. Contact us today to learn more about our process.
Backyard Grill & Fire Pit Safety | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett can help with your fire damage needs!
The spring and summer months are almost magical. Plants and trees are in perfect bloom, school kids are brimming with excitement, vacation plans are being made…and how is the temperature this perfect?
Springtime also beckons us to that most revered backyard tradition: the barbecue. From graduation parties to gender reveals, church picnics to family reunions, any old excuse will do to break out everyone’s favorite warm-weather cooker.
With a few common-sense tips, you can be sure your backyard sessions will be safe and fun for everyone.
The grill. Grills are great, but they’re also a perfect opportunity for fires to pop up—the combination of flame, heat, grease and gas gives easy openings for the hungry monster we call fire. Keep the grill away from anything that could ignite (including your house), and never use liquid accelerants to increase flames or heat. Check your grill for leaks or rust holes, and don’t forget to clean it thoroughly—almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.
The fire pit. A favorite feature of many newer homes, the fire pit is the social hub of the backyard, but use it safely. Never leave it unattended, and never leave any kids or pets alone by the fire. Don’t add things like pine needles or dry leaves to the fire, either; they create lots of dangerous flying embers. And keep a bucket within arm’s reach, both to slowly cool the fire when the night is through and to handle any jumping flames or ashes.
Chimneys and dryer vents. You don’t have to do these now, but while we’re talking seasonal fire safety, it’s just a good reminder. You won’t need your indoor fireplace until fall, so clean out ash and soot now to avoid potential hazards later. And check your dryer’s vent trap for pent-up lint that could easily combust.
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.
Weather Hazards in Michigan as Spring Approaches | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett wants to keep your home or business safe this spring!
In terms of total land area, the United States is second only to Russia and Canada (though China is larger if all outlying US territories are excluded). It’s a very large and diverse country.
Because of its sheer vastness, seasonal weather does not follow a one-size-fits-all pattern across the whole country. Throughout the year, distinct regions of the country experience a variety of diverse weather patterns, resulting in a range of weather threats.
With the arrival of spring, warm and cold air masses collide throughout the nation, resulting in extreme weather occurrences. Let’s take a look at what we may expect in various parts of the nation, as well as what we should keep in mind here in Michigan.
Severe rain drenches the Pacific Northwest in the spring, which may result in flooding and water damage to homes. At higher elevations, snow will continue to fall, and the ensuing melting and runoff will create its own concerns.
The Upper Midwest, including Michigan, and all through the Northeast have the longest winters (as you’re surely aware), with frigid weather lasting throughout the season. Michigan has also seen an increase in rain and snowfall in recent years.
The frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation are projected to continue to rise, potentially increasing the frequency and intensity of floods throughout spring. Extreme cold and the threat of snowstorms and blizzards may be expected as far northeast as Maine all the way over to the Dakotas until late spring or early summer, when temperatures begin to rise again.
The southern West Coast, on the other hand, will experience the opposite, with severe heat waves possibly risking lives and property. Additionally, tsunamis caused by tectonic activity can be expected throughout the South Pacific, including Hawaii.
Windstorms, derechos and the risk of wildfires will be major threats across the heartland, from Iowa to Texas. When the winds are high and the weather is dry, wildfires may spread quickly. Accordingly, Tornado Alley, which has a high tornado frequency, is included in this zone.
Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in landlocked areas, as well as catastrophic rip currents and hurricanes on the coast late into spring, are all possible in the Southeast region.
Extreme weather poses a significant risk to everybody in the United States, regardless of location. Yours may be different from that of a relative a few states away, but being prepared is always a smart idea.
If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.
The Timeline of Water Damage and Its Destructive Effects | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is your 24/7 water restoration expert. Call us right away if you need immediate service.
Small spots of water spots and barely leaking faucets can seem basic and are often overlooked. However, you should never underestimate the damage caused by moisture in the home. An average household leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water in a year.
The damage brought on by standing water progresses fast, seeping into your walls, soft surfaces and floors. It’s most important to begin dealing with the issue immediately to get the best restoration results.
This timeline gives you a good synopsis of water damage:
In the First 24 Hours
If you live in a house, there is a one in four chance of a flood damaging your home within a 30-year period in a high-risk area. Knowing what to do next is essential.
The first 24 to 48 hours after flooding or water damage are crucial. Certain items will immediately fall victim to water’s disastrous effects.
Soft and absorbent items like fabric furnishings and upholstery will soak in the water. Wooden structures can swell and become deformed as well.
Even scarier, your personal belongings such as books, photos and important documents are at risk of warping beyond repair. During this timeframe, mold begins to develop, so taking action fast is essential.
At SERVPRO, our expertise, combined with a “restore vs. replace” mentality, can help you save money while keeping your precious and irreplaceable memories safe. If any items are unfortunately beyond restoration, we will communicate this to you. These items will be removed quickly to prevent the spread of moisture and lessen the drying time of the ones we can restore.
Within the First Week
After the first 24 hours, water damage will progress further and quickly. Mold growth will explode at this point if in the presence of moisture; as the mold sets in it can even damage your home’s structure.
Additionally, porous surfaces, such as wood surfaces and walls will become increasingly compromised, and metal surfaces will start corroding.
After One Week
At all costs, you must avoid allowing moisture to stay present for long periods of time. Standing water and moisture can cause extremely destructive and irreversible effects.
As time progresses, the effort required and the costs of restoration will increase exponentially, along with the risks of significant structural damage.
How SERVPRO Will Help
We begin the SERVPRO restoration process with our first call, hopefully within the first 24 hours. Service work typically starts with a full-scale extraction of standing water, helping to prevent the spread of moisture further into your home.
It’s very likely that your furniture, floors and personal belongings that have been affected will need deep cleaning, sanitizing and deodorization. Once we remove most of the water, our experts will use industry-leading equipment that helps get rid of the water that can’t be seen.
After these initial steps, your home may need construction work to get your property back to its preloss condition. This step could include minor repairs or rebuilding entire areas of your home.
At SERVPRO, we like to simplify the restoration process by taking care of the initial damage mitigation, as well as rebuilding the affected areas of your home or business. We keep you up to date on every single step, doing our best to get you back in action as soon as possible.
Regardless of the type of water damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover. Contact us 24/7 when you need a dependable team to help you recover.
SERVPRO Is Ready to Help | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett are your local commercial restoration experts. Contact us today should you experience any damage.
You are well aware as a business owner that managing a smooth operation involves the utilization of as much assistance as possible. Significant delays or losses can have a disastrous impact for your organization.
Whatever sort of business or facility you manage, we want you to know you already have a business partner ready to help with cleaning and disaster recovery practically right around the corner. It’s like having a loyal ally in charge of an entire aspect of your business’s success.
Large Loss Recovery. The most prevalent causes of financial loss for businesses in the United States are fires, storms and floods. Each of these disasters has the potential to inflict considerable damage if restoration is delayed, so do not wait when these occurrences strike—call SERVPRO. You’ll communicate with a highly trained staff person who is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin the process with you, thereby reducing downtime and speeding your process of resuming operations again.
Emergency Ready Plan. You may or may not know that disaster recovery can begin prior to the event. We can help you in building an Emergency Ready Plan that is deployed on demand. Following a disaster, you might need everything from a temporary emergency chain of command to alternate meeting and work spaces or temporary suppliers. We’ll design your plan so that everything can be activated through a single click.
All-Purpose Cleaning. We have solutions for any cleaning need. From highly specialized services like as trauma site cleanup and safe biohazard removal to more generic ones such as carpet and upholstery cleaning, we can offer the whole spectrum of cleaning services to homes and businesses. We’ve been doing this for a long time, and we’ve seen and cleaned just about everything!
Restoration Services. The unpredictable happens all the time. You never know when a storm will generate flash floods, when interns could start the kitchen on fire or when a waterline will burst. SERVPRO’s repair and cleaning services are necessary in each of these instances. You can trust us to restore the sparkle to your organization after a disaster event, from cleanup to restoration.
Industry Specialization. We can help a vast assortment of industries and businesses as we have spent decades learning the distinct ins and outs of each one. We can assist your company with any one-of-a-kind specialized service or any basic cleaning or repair requirements. In many situations, we’ll even enclose the work area to keep it distinct from other parts of your business’s everyday operations.
Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.
Do You Know the Signs of Water Damage in Your Bathroom?
Both mold and mildew can flourish in wet environments.
The signs of water damage can be difficult to spot if you don’t know what you’re looking for. And your bathroom is one of the places it’s most likely to hide. It’s important to find water damage in your home early because it can spread and worsen over time. If it’s stopped early and repaired, then you can avoid making bigger, more costly repairs in the future. Your home is your family’s biggest investment, so protecting it is vital. You can do that by regularly looking for signs of leaks around your home. Learning what you should be looking for in your bathroom is a good place to start. Signs You Could See Here’s what you might see if you have a potential water issue in one of your home’s bathrooms: Evidence of mold or mildew. Both mold and mildew can flourish in wet environments. Your bathroom might have black spots on your walls, shower curtain, around your tub or shower, or underneath your bathroom cabinets. Wet spots on your walls or around the tub. If you see water spots or stains on your walls, it’s a sign that there could be a leak behind them. If you notice that, then it might be time to check your pipes for leaks and other issues. You’ll want to correct those and then repair any damage to protect your home. Damage to the flooring or paint . Bubbling, peeling paint, buckling wood floors or cracked damaged tiles can all be possible signs of water damage. Again, you’ll want to fix these issues and repair any damage they’ve caused to ensure your home hasn’t been compromised by mold or water damage. Wet spots on your ceiling. Not all signs of bathroom water damage are actually noticeable in the bathroom. Water spots and leaks from the ceiling can be signs that the plumbing in your bathroom is leaking if your ceiling issues are located directly below a bathroom. (Any ceiling leak should be investigated, though.) If you see the signs of water damage anywhere in your home, take the time to get it evaluated and repaired correctly. It will serve you well in the long run—and possibly save you time and money. From emergency cleaning and restoration to routine disinfection, we’re there for you. Contact us at any hour for a consultation or immediate assistance. Our teams are available to help you 24/7. Don’t wait to call us!
What Do I Do About a Soaked Carpet? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, contact us right away; SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett is available 24/7
Sometimes water just happens. Maybe you go away on vacation and when you come back, you found your teenager left her window open the whole time. It was a rainy week, and now the carpet is soaked.
You wonder, “Can this carpet be saved? Can we dry it ourselves? How do we dry it ourselves?”
Luckily, SERVPRO has answers to these questions. Yes, many carpets that have been thoroughly saturated can be salvaged. Whether you can deal with yours on your own depends on one, how long it was wet and two, whether it was wet with contaminated water.
How Long Was Your Carpet Wet?
As soon as your carpet becomes wet, it starts changing. The fibers soak up moisture and the mold spores that are present begin to grow and spread. But chances are, if your carpet was soaked less than 48 hours then you can dry it yourself.
How do you dry a carpet?
You’ll need to manually remove as much water as possible. Press clean, dry towels into the carpet, then wring them out. Repeat when you can’t get more water up this way.
Create an atmosphere conducive to drying by opening windows, pointing fans at the carpet, and/or running a dehumidifier.
Keep removing water by running a wet/dry vacuum. As with the towels, run the vacuum, then empty the canister, and repeat until you can’t get more water out of the carpet.
Sprinkle it with baking soda or a commercial carpet disinfectant. Leave overnight before vacuuming up.
Was the Water Contaminated?
If sewage or other contaminated water got into your carpet—or if it was wet more than a couple of days—you’ll need to lift it, then clean, decontaminate and dry it before putting it back in place.
It is possible you can do this yourself, if you have the right equipment. You’ll need to take the carpet and pad up and thorough clean the floor under it. Then be sure to disinfect, shampoo or steam clean, and dry the carpet before laying it down again.
However, this can be a very unwieldy process. Your best bet in this situation is to reach out to a commercial cleaning and restoration company, such as SERVPRO. Very often, our talented technicians can help you remove mold and odors, destroy harmful microbes, and make your carpet usable again.
From emergency cleaning and restoration to routine disinfection, we’re there for you. Contact us at any hour for a consultation or immediate assistance.
Why Select a Commercial Restoration Partner? | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
As a business, you select an accountant or bookkeeper, a security firm, and possibly even a cleaning service. And when disaster strikes, you may have a hard-hitting recovery firm in mind, such as SERVPRO.
“But how often does disaster strike?” you may ask. Making arrangements for a disaster that hasn’t happened yet may not be at the top of your to-do list.
However, you can save time, money and headaches with a little preparation. And that includes partnering with a commercial restoration firm up front, so we’re ready to leap into action with advance knowledge of your particular needs.
An Extra Layer of Clean
The first thing a day-to-day partnership with SERVPRO can offer is deeper cleaning than a regular janitorial service. Whether you have high-traffic carpets, fryer hoods or even hazardous chemicals in your building, we have the special training and licensure to meet your needs.
Plan-Ahead Disaster Preparation
In the midst of a fire or flood, wouldn’t you like a partner who’s prepared? SERVPRO can keep your vital lists in one place: insurers, contractors, even the locations of any hazardous materials in your workplace that need to be quickly moved or remediated in in case of disaster. Known as the SERVPRO READY plan, this can help us respond faster and more thoroughly when the call comes.
We Do Paperwork, Too
Another important aspect of having a ready partner is that we can help with any paperwork related to disaster recovery. SERVPRO has many years of experience dealing with insurance companies, and we can help you ensure you have the documentation you need to get your claims covered.
Whether you’re looking for a long-term disinfection service, or need help restoring your property after an emergency, your SERVPRO team is ready to help. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.
Your SERVPRO Franchise Hits the Sweet Spot | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
East Lansing across from Michigan State University
If you’re reading this blog, you’re likely thinking about cleaning, restoration and disinfection services in the East Lansing area.
This is a bustling market, and we’re aware that you have lots of choice when you select a cleaning and restoration partner. Let’s talk about why SERVPRO is one of the best commercial—and residential—partners you could select. The answer lies in our balance of local knowledge and national expertise.
National Reach
As a national franchise, we’re more than just some businesspeople pushing out a concept. We’re a center for knowledge and professional expertise. Our larger network gives us access to a lot of cleaning and restoration wisdom. We look to SERVPRO for guidance about so many thing—cleaning protocols, products and new hazards, among others.
Our national scale also enables us to be nimble. Because of our national organization, for instance, we were able to rapidly push an EPA-approved COVID-19 cleaning protocol across the country, rather than each location figuring it out all alone.
Local Knowledge
East Lansing residents share some hazards with people across the United States—housefires, for instance. But we also have some unique threats.
For instance, we have extremely cold temperatures, including minus 29 in 1981. That leads to specific hazards to property and contents, including snow and ice damage, plumbing breaks, and doorframe rot. With our river, our humid summers and our propensity to build full basements, we also tend to encounter flooding and mold damage underneath ground level, as these photos attest.
Because we’ve seen it, we know how to deal with it. Our experience can even let us help you track down the source of a tricky problem. And most important, because we’re your neighbors, we know what you’re dealing with. When it comes to disasters—especially those related to weather—we’re usually all in it together!
Whether you’re looking for a long-term disinfection service or need help restoring your property after an emergency, your SERVPRO team is ready to help. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.
Why SERVPRO®? We’re Certified! | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
When you look for someone to restore your business after a fire, flood or other emergency event, you want to deal with professionals who are certified in their field. Electricians, plumbers and HVAC contractors have to undergo testing and licensing to stay in business—but who certifies cleaning and restoration companies?
In fact, SERVPRO locations and technicians have to obtain multiple certifications. That’s because our projects are so diverse and wide-ranging. Let’s look at some of the “certified” reasons you should partner with SERVPRO for commercial restoration services.
AMRT (Applied Microbial Remediation Technician). Our technicians obtain this certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), an international organization that promulgates ANSI-accredited industry standards. For this certification, we study mold and sewage remediation. Our firm is certified by IICRC, too.
ASD (Applied Structural Drying Technician). Also from the IICRC, this certification means we’ve proven we can safely dry and restore water-damaged buildings and their contents.
OSHA General/Construction Industry Training Program. Because we do so much work in and around damaged structures, our technicians learn the basics of construction industry safety in this Occupational Health and Safety Administration course.
RRRP (Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation). This EPA-based certification indicates that we can safely perform restorations in buildings that might contain lead paint. That’s usually those built before 1978. We have training to carefully follow these standards, especially when emergencies create unexpected lead exposure.
WRT (Water Damage Restoration Technician). When our technicians obtain this entry-level IICRC certification, they understand the basics of water damage restoration, including containing and extracting the water that’s present, as well as mold removal procedures.
Whether you’re looking for a long-term disinfection service or need help restoring your property after an emergency, your SERVPRO team is ready to help. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.
What Makes Storm-Related Flash Floods So Dangerous | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
If your home is damaged due to a storm, SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett is here to help. We will get the job done right, contact us today.
Severe weather can be dangerous in many different ways—between lightning strikes, high wind and hail, there are countless ways that storms can cause damage. However, many people are surprised to learn that floods are the most dangerous severe weather incident of all. Floods are second only to heat when it comes to weather-related fatalities in the United States, and flash floods present the biggest risk.
Any type of flooding can be quite dangerous, but when it comes to flash floods, their sudden onset in addition to their ability to impact any area creates a deadly combination. Additionally, because any body of water can overflow during heavy rains, flash floods can impact any area—that is why we encourage people to always be aware of their risks and the top safety tips.
What Makes a Flood a Flash Flood?
A traditional flood will slowly begin to rise, while a flash flood must occur within the first six hours after a storm, but they often happen in as few as three hours. Flash floods tend to be more common in urban areas due to the possibility of blocked storm drains and drainage systems, and they can occur even in areas that are not situated low enough to be a regular flood concern.
What Are the Flash Flood Alert Guidelines?
Because flash floods can come about with little notice, if there is a storm and heavy rain in your area, you should always stay alert to local weather alerts so you have as much notice as possible in case waters near you start to rise.
Officials will issue a flash flood watch for a general area to encourage heightened concern, but if things progress to a warning, you will want to quickly take the proper precautions. If a flash flood emergency is issued, move to higher ground as quickly as you can, as these are rare and deadly conditions.
What Can I Do to Reduce My Flash Flood Risk Level?
It is important to prioritize safety for any severe weather event, but flash floods should be especially revered. Knowing the rules for safety can keep you and your family much safer if the waters suddenly begin to rise:
If rain is heavy for an extended period, tune into official weather warning channels.
Make sure you have a clear safety plan in place and that your family knows how to execute it.
If you come across floodwater, never attempt to cross it by car or on foot.
Avoid coming into contact with floodwater, as it can hide electrical currents and contaminants.
When evacuating, have alternate routes in mind in case yours is blocked by water.
If your home or business has been damaged due to a flood or other severe weather, you can depend on us.
Why Your Business Needs Defensive Cleaning | SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett
Whether you’re looking for a long-term disinfection service or need help restoring your property after an emergency, your SERVPRO team is ready.
Did you know? Customer shopping habits are changing faster than ever before. This McKinsey & Company survey says it all:
Customers are moving away from brick-and-mortar retailers to online.
They’re willing to trade brand loyalty for safety considerations.
They’re highly motivated to do their physical shopping at businesses that not only “follow hygiene protocols” but also “communicate effectively that they are following those procedures.”
That’s where a defensive cleaning program comes in. If your retail shop, restaurant or other business plans to continue capturing in-person sales, you need to keep your location as clean and sanitary as possible—and also effectively communicate that this is your intention. That’s where a defensive cleaning program with strong name recognition comes in.
Science-Based Disinfection
As the pandemic continues, your customers will be relieved to see you rely on the science when it comes to cleaning and disinfection. A good disinfection service, such as Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, uses EPA-approved products for proactive cleaning and disinfecting for pathogens, including COVID-19.
You’ll find many cleaning services are doing this; we take it a step further and clean to the CDC’s standards for cleaning and decontamination.
Selecting a Defensive Cleaning Program
Maybe you have a cleaning person, or maybe you and/or your employees clean at the end of a shift. Now is the time to recognize that cleaning and especially disinfection are science-based practices.
It’s time to turn to the professionals. According to the Houston Chronicle, when you’re looking for a cleaning service for your business, you should look at:
Services offered
Insurance
Terms of their contract
Experience with your type of business
References
As a long-term player in the cleaning and disinfection space, we have experience extending to just about every imaginable kind of clean-up. We’re locally franchised, so we’re part of your community, but we can also tap into a storehouse of science-based national expertise.
Give your customers peace of mind when they need it most—consider SERVPRO® for your cleaning and disinfection partner.
Whether you’re looking for a long-term disinfection service or need help restoring your property after an emergency, your SERVPRO team is ready to help. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.
When Storms or Floods Hit East Lansing/Haslett, SERVPRO is Ready!
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in East Lansing/Haslett!
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit the East Lansing/Haslett area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 517-999-0789
Moisture mapping around this bathtub after taking moisture readings gives the homeowner an idea of how much water is trapped under the floor.
With any leak or spill, it’s the water you don't see that can cause the most damage. When you experience a water damage, make the right choice. A mop and common household cleaning products may not be enough for the unseen water intrusions. While the surface may seem dry, the water you don’t see can contain bacteria, cause mold or rot, and cause other unseen damage.
The insurance industry estimates that approximately 90 percent of household damages come from water-related occurrences. The most commonly reported cause is leaky or broken pipes and plumbing fixtures. Home appliances are considered a leading cause of preventable water damage. By implementing a simple inspection and maintenance program, homeowners can reduce their risk significantly:
Dishwasher - Periodically check around the base of the dishwasher, as well as the water supply line under the sink.
Refrigerator - For refrigerators with ice makers, periodically check the hose connection attached to the water supply.
Washing Machine - Hoses should be inspected regularly for wetness around hose ends, as well as for signs of bulging, cracking or fraying. Hoses should be replaced every three to five years.
Water Heater - While the service life of the standard water heater is 10 to 15 years, water heaters should be inspected routinely for signs of leaks or tank rust. Water heaters should be located next to a floor drain or placed inside a drain pan piped to the floor drain.
So before risking the value of your home or further damage by attempting to clean and dry it yourself, call us to inspect your home.
A fire extinguisher can be a life-saving tool when used correctly. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recommends individuals are properly trained in order to use and maintain an extinguisher.
USFA says an extinguisher should only be used if:
You have alerted other occupants and someone has called the fire department.
The fire is small and contained to a single object, such as a wastebasket.
You are safe from the toxic smoke produced by the fire.
You have a means of escape identified and the fire is not between you and the fire escape route.
Your instincts tell you that it is safe to use an extinguisher.
Classes of Fire Extinguishers:
Class A: Use on ordinary combustible materials, such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.
Class B: Use on flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline and oil.
Class C: Use on appliances, tools, or other equipment that is electrically energized or plugged in.
Class D: Use on flammable metals and are often specific for the type of metal in question. These are typically found only in factories working with these metals.
Class K: Use on vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. These are generally found in commercial kitchens, but are suitable for the residential market.
The key to preventing and stopping indoor mold growth is to control excessive moisture and condensation. Keeping susceptible areas in the home clean and dry is critical. In general, mold will not grow indoors without water, dampness or excessive moisture.
Three main factors contribute to condensation of water on building surfaces:
Relative Humidity: Condensation occurs when the air is saturated with water and it cannot hold any more moisture. For example, steam generated from bathroom showers or from cooking can fill up the air with moisture, which will then condense into drops of water on cooler surfaces, such as mirrors and windows. Where possible, localized sources of humidity, such as clothes dryers, should be directly vented to the outdoors. To lower indoor humidity during warm, humid weather, air conditioners and/or dehumidifiers should be used. In chronically damp areas such as basements or crawlspaces, it is often recommended that dehumidifiers be used to maintain humidity levels below 60 percent.
Temperature: Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. Condensation occurs when warm humid air comes into contact with a cold surface and the moisture condenses into water. This can often be seen on single-pane windows, where water condenses and then runs down, causing the wood frames and sills to rot and the wall under the windows to blister. Condensation can occur on exterior walls, particularly north-facing walls, if they are not properly insulated. Other chronically cold surfaces, such as cold water pipes, should be covered with insulation to help prevent condensation.
Poor Ventilation: Indoor humidity can build up if there is not enough ventilation and exchange of indoor and outdoor air. Where there is little or no air movement, such as behind dressers and cabinets, surfaces can remain cooler than surrounding areas, which can lead to increased condensation and mold growth. It is recommended that the area be ventilated and the occupants use exhaust fans (vented to the outdoors) to remove moisture from high-humidity areas, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry areas. Furniture should be moved slightly away from walls so that air can freely pass behind it. Air should be allowed to circulate between rooms and regularly ventilate to remove humid air. Fans should be used as needed.
Other things that can be done are to clean and repair gutters regularly, make sure the ground slopes down and away from the home’s foundation and keep air conditioner drip pans and drain lines clean. In addition, in air conditioned buildings in hot and humid climates, vinyl wall coverings on the interior sides of exterior walls should not be used, as these materials can trap moisture, resulting in mold growth underneath them.
In the case of floods or leaking pipes, any standing water should be promptly removed and water-damaged materials should either be dried out and cleaned, or removed and replaced. Porous materials that are wet for more than 48 hours are likely to produce mold growth and should be discarded.
If you're concerned about moisture, mold, or water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett at 517-999-0789. We're here to help!
Call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett at the first sign of water damage!
There are many signs of water damage that you should look out for. Water damage can cause serious problems in any home and if you don’t spot the signs of water damage and deal with it quickly, it is likely to worsen over time. Water damage not only tends to spread, but it can also cause the development of mold, which will grow on any surface it comes into contact with. Mold can even travel through the air in the form of spores, and upon coming into contact with damp walls or flooring, it will begin to grow into a colony within 24 hours.
However, the problem with spotting the signs of water damage is that water damage isn’t always immediately apparent. Sometimes, it will be clear (such as when you have a burst water pipe spraying water into your hallway) but in other cases, it can be more gradual and subtle. SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett can identify such problems with a probe or a moisture meter, but how do you know to call them in the first place?
Here are just a few of the signs that you might have water damage…
Sound
Sometimes you can’t see water damage, but you can hear it. Water damage might sound like dripping water, it might sound like creaking floor boards or it might sound like rushing water. Of course, these sounds might also be the result of a perfectly functional plumbing system, so what you’re looking for is signs that have changed.
Smell
Another sense you can use to look for signs of water damage or moisture in your home is smell. Dampness has a very distinct odor and this might also be accompanied by the musky smell of mold. Look out for smells in conjunction with other indicators of water damage.
Pooling Water or Puddles
If you have something dripping or leaking, then this can leave pools of water. If you notice an unusual puddle, then keep an eye on it to see if it comes back after you clean it up. If it does, then you may have a leak or seepage.
Coldness
If your home is very difficult to heat, this might be a sign that you have dampness affecting your walls. Water and moisture will often draw heat out of walls in order to evaporate and this, in turn, leaves those walls and the property overall much colder.
Mold
Just as there is no smoke without fire, there is no mold without water damage. You may not need water damage restorationif the mold is a result of condensation in your bathroom, but in any situation, this is a sign that there is too much moisture in some part of your home and you need to deal with it swiftly by drying the area. Mold has its own smell and can also cause health symptoms such as cold-like or allergy symptoms as well as headaches and nausea.
Discoloration
Discoloration is another sign of water damage. In particular look for ‘streaks’ of water that are running down the side of your home. This can sometimes be a sign of an overflowing gutter, which will result in watermarks that are quite distinctive and show where the water has traveled down the wall.
When you are in need of a water damage restoration company in East Lansing, Haslett, Okemos, Williamston, Dansville, Perry, Webberville, or Lansing, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett at 517-999-0789.
Tissue test on areas of the home far from the original source indicate how wide-spread smoke and soot damage can be.
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our 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 East Lansing/Haslett 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. We 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 Us Today – 517.999.0789
Excessive mold and water damage on the frame of this basement slider.
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and 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 can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
Here at SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett, we know that emergencies happen, which is why we offer prompt 24/7 emergency response. However, until our highly trained technicians arrive, there are some effective steps you can take to help minimize the damage being done to your home or business. Depending on the type and extent of the emergency at hand, different procedures should be followed in order to slow down the damage being done.
When you are facing water damage from a clean water source, there are several things you can do until SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett arrives.
As soon as possible, turn off the source of water. If you are unable to do so, contact a qualified party to shut off the water source. Doing this will stop any additional water trying to enter your home from doing so.
When safe to do so, attempt to shut off the circuit breaker for wet areas throughout the affected building. Use extreme caution when doing so in order to avoid any electric shock.
Begin blotting and mopping up as much water as possible. Having standing water can cause more damage to the building
Keep furniture skirting, draperies and other items away from wet areas. A good trick to keeping furniture skirting off the wet flooring is to use clothespins to pin them up.
In addition to the many beneficial tips to keep in mind when facing clean water damage, there are also several things you should avoid.
Any rooms with standing water should be avoided at all costs.
Keep all items that when wet could cause staining away from carpet. These items include newspapers, magazines, or papers with ink that could bleed through when damp.
Do not use any appliances while in standing water.
Do not use your own vacuum to remove water because this can cause electrical shock and possibly damage the vacuum cleaner.
Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.
Do not enter any rooms where the ceiling appears to be sagging due to retention of water.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 at 517-999-0789
It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.
If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. Those conditions include:
Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.
Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.
Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.
If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remedy mold in your home or business.
What to Do:
Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett for mold remediation services.
What Not to Do:
Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remedy your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 517-999-0789
According to the NFPA, US Fire Departments responded to an average of 166,000 fires per year between 2010 and 2014 that involved cooking equipment. Home fires are more likely to start in your kitchen than any other room in the house.
Grease fires are caused by letting oil get too hot, so the best way to prevent them is to never leave your kitchen unattended. Oil smokes before it burns, so if you see your pan start to smoke, take it off the heat before it has a chance to catch fire. If the pan has already caught fire, turn off the burner immediately and place a heavy metal lid on the pan - never use a glass lid as it will shatter - or use a baking sheet if you don't have metal lids. Never pour water on a grease fire!
Our blog post "Which Fire Extinguisher Is Right For You?" indicates which fire extinguishers are effective on each type of fire. In the case of a grease fire, you will need a Class B fire extinguisher.
Here are some safety tips to help prevent a fire in your kitchen:
Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen. Contact your local fire department to take training on the proper use of extinguishers.
Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen, on each level of your home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside bedrooms if you sleep with doors closed. Use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year.
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. We 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 Us Today – 517-999-0789
East Lansing Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!
This East Lansing home's basement flooded due to a sewer backup during heavy rains.
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your East Lansing basement could flood, including:
A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
Storm sewer backup
Sanitary sewer backup
Foundation drainage failure
Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today - 517-999-0789
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help! 517-999-0789
The iron particulates in the water oxidized and left these massive rust stains all over.
Powerful Water Main Break
A water main break in this Lansing hall caused extensive damage throughout. The water main burst on a Friday and, as the building is typically only used for meetings and receptions, wasn't checked on until someone noticed a spike in the utility bill a couple days later. The water quickly flooded the rest of the hall, causing all the floors and lower walls to be unsalvageable.
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
Be sure to check our Before & After photo section soon to see the building after the repairs!
Business Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help! 517-999-0789
According to the latest industry research, as much as 50% of business may never recover from a disaster. Of the businesses that do survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind.
By developing a Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action.
Ready Profile Advantages
No cost assessment of your facility.
A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
Establishes SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
Call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett to get started today – 517-999-0789
Mold was hiding behind drywall and insulation in this Haslett home.
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and 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 can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 517-999-0789
Keep your family safe with an emergency preparedness kit!
Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:
1. Flashlights for each family member
2. Battery-operated radio and clock
3. Extra batteries
4. Containers of bottled water
5. Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants
6. Non-electric can opener
7. List of important phone numbers
8. First-aid kit
Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.
•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
•Choose foods your family will eat.
•Remember any special dietary needs.
•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.
•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.
•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener
•Protein or fruit bars
•Dry cereal or granola
•Peanut butter
•Dried fruit
•Nuts
•Crackers
•Canned juices
•Non-perishable pasteurized milk
•High energy foods
•Vitamins
•Food for infants
•Comfort/stress foods
These and many other helpful tips are available at https://www.ready.gov/power-outages. When bad weather strikes the East Lansing/Haslett area, knowing what to do until SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett arrives will make a difference.
Call us directly at 517-999-0789.
Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your East Lansing Home
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, water or storm damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.
The basement of an Okemos home on the Red Cedar, 5 days after flooding began.
For many people, snagging a piece of waterfront property can be a dream come true. But when accumulated snow melts, or heavy rains ensue, that dream can turn into a nightmare.
In February, Mid-Michigan experienced some of the worst flooding in recent history. The Red Cedar's flood stage is 7 feet, and peaked at 10.3 feet; the Grand River's flood stage is 11 feet, and it peaked at 14.6 feet. The Lansing flood of 1975 reached levels of 12 feet.
There are over 1,700 SERVPRO franchises nationwide, as well as a Disaster Recovery Team and many franchises who participate in Storm Team. SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett has had the opportunity to participate in disasters around Michigan and in Texas during the devastating Hurricane Harvey aftermath. During the Lansing flood, franchises came to help from Tennessee, Ohio, Minnesota and Oklahoma.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today - 517-999-0789
Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event
Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges
Flooding and water damage events in East Lansing/Haslett commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, 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.
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, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett 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.
A lot of things can go wrong when a home is left unoccupied for an extended period of time, especially if there is no caretaker to check in periodically. Such was the unforunate case for this East Lansing home.
This home had been left unattended for about a year. A family member of the homeowner received a large utility bill and had a handy-man go check out what was going on. The water pump went out and the house had not been winterized, and with the cold temperatures of Michigan's winter season, pipes were freezing and bursting. Water was trapped between the first floor ceiling and second floor, causing the entire first floor ceiling to collapse in the living room. Due to the warm temperature of the home and undisturbed air, mold and bacteria began to form everywhere. Pink, blue, green, and black spots covered the walls and ceilings, mold had begun to eat away at wood furniture and knickknacks, and a thick, white mold covered the underside of the ceiling that had collapsed.
Taking proper precautions when a home will be unoccupied is imperative. Hiring a handy-man or family friend to check on the property regularly, maintaining insurance, and keeping an eye on utility bills can prevent a massive mold infestation from forming, saving you thousands of dollars.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 517-999-0789
Spring is just around the corner and we all know what that means - SPRING CLEANING! When planning out your spring cleaning checklist, be sure to incorporate these tips to keep your home or business safe from fire.
• Test your smoke alarms, and replace any alarms that are 10 years old or older.
• Test your carbon monoxide alarms, and replace any alarms that are 7 years old or older.
• Check your dryer vents and clean the hosing.
• Clean clutter inside and outside your home.
• Check the cords on your appliances. If any are cracked or frayed, repair or replace them.
• Practice your home fire escape plan.
If your property does suffer fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett at 517-999-0789 and we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."
The ceiling of the apartment complex after falling due to water.
The nationwide Arctic Freeze in December was like nothing we've experienced in the past recent years - Michiganders were seeing temperatures in the negative teens for days. Our homes are just as susceptible to these frigid temperatures. Pipes were bursting in homes all over the state, and the technicians at SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett were able to respond quickly to put a halt to any damage being done.
On this particular occasion, a pipe burst between the first and second floors of this East Lansing apartment, and the damage was already pretty severe upon our arrival. With a pipe burst comes a lot of force, which you can see from this photo. The water being built up between the ceiling and floor was enough to saturate the ceiling and cause it to deteriorate and collapse. The water was able to then travel throughout the main floor, and soak through to the basement and crawlspace.
Our crews worked tirelessly to get the apartment cleared of wet materials and to get everything dried completely. While devastated about the amount of damage caused by the pipe burst, and the amount of remodeling to be done, the complex owner was very pleased with our crews dedication to completing the mitigation in a timely manner.
While beautiful, snow covered landscapes can be treacherous.
Although the deep freeze has passed, Michigan's unpredictable winter could throw a few more weeks of frigid temperatures our way. Following these helpful tips from the Red Cross can help keep you, your family, friends, and neighbors safe during a winter storm.
Stay indoors and wear warm clothes. Layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing will keep you warmer than a bulky sweater. If you feel too warm, remove layers to avoid sweating; if you feel chilled, add layers.
Eat regularly. Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat.
Keep the body replenished with fluids to prevent dehydration. Drink liquids such as warm broth or juice. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine, a stimulant, accelerates the symptoms of hypothermia. Alcohol, such as brandy, is a depressant and hastens the effects of cold on the body. Alcohol also slows circulation and can make you less aware of the effects of cold. Both caffeine and alcohol can cause dehydration.
Bring your companion animals inside before the storm begins.
Move other animals to sheltered areas with a supply of non-frozen water. Most animal deaths in winter storms are caused by dehydration.
Check on relatives, neighbors, and friends, particularly if they are elderly or if they live alone.
If you must go outside, protect yourself from winter storm hazards:
Wear layered clothing, mittens or gloves, and a hat. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Mittens or gloves and a hat will prevent the loss of body heat.
Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from severely cold air. Avoid taking deep breaths; minimize talking.
Watch for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses much of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly away from the body.
Stretch before you go out. If you go out to shovel snow, do a few stretching exercises to warm up your body. This will reduce your chances of muscle injury.
Avoid overexertion, such as shoveling heavy snow, pushing a vehicle, or walking in deep snow. The strain from the cold and the hard labor may cause a heart attack. Sweating could lead to a chill and hypothermia.
Walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks. Slips and falls occur frequently in winter weather, resulting in painful and sometimes disabling injuries.
If you must go out during a winter storm, use public transportation if possible. About 70 percent of winter deaths related to ice and snow occur in automobiles.
What You Need to Know About Insuring Your Business
Starting your own business can be an exciting time - but make sure you've got all your bases covered! After you've secured the proper insurances to protect you and your employees, SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett can come to your business to set up your ERP!
Learn What’s Protected Under General Liability Insurance Coverage
Business liability insurance coverage is something most business simply must have, so it is essential that you understand what it does and doesn't cover.
Here are some general liability insurance coverage rules of thumb. To be sure about your specific business needs, be sure to consult with a qualified business insurance agent.
What’s typically protected by commercial liability insurance coverage
Business is inherently risky, but business liability coverage safeguards against many known and unknown risks. Commercial liability insurance coverage protects you, your business and your employees from claims involving bodily injury or property damage, up to the limits of your policy. Policies shield you from the expense of out-of-court settlements, litigation and judgments awarded by courts.
Lawsuits, investigations and settlements
If damages are filed against you or you’re sued, general liability insurance covers the insurance company’s investigation and attorney expenses, any judgment or settlement, medical expenses in case of injury and bonds if they must be subsequently posted.
Injury damages
Claims can arise from bodily injury or property damages resulting from accidents on your premises or from your products, your operations or advertising for your business.
Miscellaneous
Liability insurance can also cover things you may not have thought about, such as advertising injury in the event your company’s marketing violates someone’s copyright. Business liability insurance coverage even offers some protection against alcohol-related accidents (as long as your company is not in an alcohol-related business, such as the manufacture or distribution of alcohol).
What’s typically NOT protected by business liability coverage
Here are some situations that would not be protected by general liability insurance coverage.
Employee injuries
Workers compensation is the insurance you would need to protect your employees when they are hurt on the job.
Professional mistakes
Business liability insurance coverage won’t cover a professional mistake, but professional liability will. It insures against mishaps that may occur as you offer your opinion, solution, service or recommendations in the course of business.
Auto-related coverage
Business liability coverage does not protect you against auto accidents. Purchase a separate auto policy to protect your business.
Punitive damages
Though there can be exceptions, a general business liability policy rarely pays for punitive damages resulting from a lawsuit.
Intentional acts
General business liability insurance does not cover damages or injuries resulting from expected or intentional acts. For example, if an employee assaults a customer, your business liability coverage would not cover the damages if they sue. But if the employee was defending himself or the company from a criminal act, the liability insurance would provide coverage.
Your work
Referred to as the “workmanship” exclusion, and is common in general liability policies. Insurance policies do not respond to what would normally be picked by a company’s warranty for their work.
Just one of the areas affected in this 4,000 square foot clubhouse.
This Jackson, MI golf course has been in business since 1960. Each year, the owners will close during the winter season, and head down to Florida, sending someone in check on the clubhouse every other week. During this particular February, a pipe burst in the clubhouse between checks. Everything in the clubhouse remained functioning as normal, such as the heat, which combined with the moisture from the pipe burst created the perfect breeding grounds for microbial growth.
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett was able to get our crews down to Jackson as soon as the owners found out about the loss. A thorough inspection revealed mold covering 70% of surfaces in the clubhouse. Chairs were rusted, contaminated water covered the floors, tables, walls, and ceilings were covered in mold. This turned out to be a complete tear out and rebuild - especially since this is a business where food and drinks are served.
Our crews worked tirelessly setting up equipment, doing demolitions, and getting the reconstruction squared away.
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, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett 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.
The Mold Remediation Process
Every mold infestation is different, from the extent and type of growth, to the variety of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. When you discover mold, call us at 517-999-0789 and we will go through our standard mold remediation process:
Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
Mold Containment
Air Filtration
Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
Cleaning Contents and Belongings
Restoration
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 517-999-0789
Michigan's humid climate creates the ideal breeding ground for microbial growth in your home. Here are some tips from Mother Nature Network to help prevent harmful microbial growth in your home.
1. Identify problem areas in your home and correct them. You can't mold-proof your home, but you can make it mold-resistant. Do an audit of your home: where are the problem areas? Does the basement flood? Do you notice frequent condensation on an upstairs window? Is there a water stain on the ceiling from a persistent leak? Preventing mold from growing or spreading might be as simple as ripping up carpet in a damp basement, installing mold-resistant products, or repairing damaged gutters. Or it may be a matter of major excavation and waterproofing. Whatever the case, address the problem now. It might cost some money up front, but it will surely be more costly down the road if mold continues to grow unchecked.
2. Dry wet areas immediately. Mold can't grow without moisture, so tackle wet areas right away. Seepage into the basement after a heavy rainfall, accumulation from a leaky pipe, even a spill on the carpet should be dried within 24 to 48 hours. If you've experienced a flood, remove water-damaged carpets, bedding, and furniture if they can't be completely dried. Even everyday occurrences need attention: don't leave wet items lying around the house, and make sure to dry the floor and walls after a shower. Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine, where mold can spread quickly. Hang them to dry — preferably outside or in areas with good air circulation.
3. Prevent moisture with proper ventilation. It may be that your routine domestic activities are encouraging the growth of mold in your home. Make sure an activity as simple as cooking dinner, taking a shower, or doing a load of laundry doesn't invite mold by providing proper ventilation in your bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and any other high-moisture area. Vent appliances that produce moisture — clothes dryers, stoves — to the outside (not the attic). Use AC units and dehumidifiers (especially in humid climates), but make sure they don’t produce moisture themselves by checking them periodically and cleaning them as directed by the manufacturer. Your energy-efficient home may be holding moisture inside, so open a window when cooking or washing dishes or showering, or run an exhaust fan.
4. Equip your home with mold-resistant products. Building a new home or renovating an old one? Use mold-resistant products like mold-resistant drywall or mold-resistant Sheetrock, and mold inhibitors for paints. Traditional drywall is composed of a gypsum plaster core pressed between plies of paper. Mold-resistant drywall is paperless — the gypsum core is covered in fiberglass, making the surface highly water-resistant. Moisture-resistant drywall is especially valuable in areas prone to wetness, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, and kitchens. Not only is traditional drywall more susceptible to mold than the paperless kind, but it is also difficult to rid of mold, and removal and replacement can be expensive. Mold-resistant gypsum board is also available; the core of the drywall is developed in such a way to prevent moisture absorption, and thus prevent mold growth.
5. Monitor humidity indoors. The EPA recommends keeping indoor humidity between 30 and 60 percent. You can measure humidity with a moisture meter purchased from your local hardware store. You'll also be able to detect high humidity by simply paying attention to potential problem areas in your home. Telltale signs of excessive humidity include condensation on windows, pipes, and walls. If you notice condensation, dry the surface immediately and address the source of moisture (for example, turn off a humidifier if water appears on the inside of nearby windows).
6. Direct water away from your home. If the ground around your home isn't sufficiently sloped away from the foundation, water may collect there and seep into your crawlspace or basement.
7. Clean or repair roof gutters. A mold problem might be a simple matter of a roof that is leaking because of full or damaged gutters. Have your roof gutters cleaned regularly and inspected for damage. Repair them as necessary, and keep an eye out for water stains after storms that may indicate a leak.
8. Improve air flow in your home. According to the EPA, as temperatures drop, the air is able to hold less moisture. Without good air flow in your home, that excess moisture may appear on your walls, windows and floors. To increase circulation, open doors between rooms, move furniture away from walls, and open doors to closets that may be colder than the rooms they’re in. Let fresh air in to reduce moisture and keep mold at bay.
9.Keep mold off household plants. They're beautiful and help keep your indoor air clean — and mold loves them. The moist soil in indoor plants is a perfect breeding ground for mold, which may then spread to other areas of your house. Instead of getting rid of your plants, try adding a bit of Taheebo tea to the water you give to your houseplants. The oil of this tree, which withstands fungi even in rain forests, helps hinder mold growth in plant soil and can be found at natural food stores.
Finally, educate yourself on your region's climate — be it the cold and wet Northeast, the hot and wet South, the hot and dry Southwest, or the cold and dry West — and how it responds to moisture. There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to mold prevention. Knowing what works for your climate and your home is an important first step.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 517-999-0789
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year to spend with friends and family - but the holiday happiness can be cut short when a sudden fire catches in the kitchen. According to the NFPA, the National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment. Follow these safety tips from the NFPA to ensure your home steers clear of a disaster this Thanksgiving:
Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop, so you can keep an eye on the food.
Stay in the home when cooking your turkey and check on it frequently.
Keep children away from the stove. The stove will be hot, and kids should stay 3 feet away.
Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.
Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.
Keep knives out of the reach of children.
Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child.
Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.
Never leave children alone in room with a lit candle.
Make sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button.
From all of us at SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett, have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!
Prepare your home and family for Michigan's upcoming winter season!
Michigan is no stranger to deadly winter storms - take the time this fall to prepare your home and family for this year's winter season!
Trim or Remove Trees
Trees are responsible for the majority of damage to homes and personal property during winter storms. Your homeowner’s insurance may not protect you in the event of fallen limbs or trees. According to insurance company Allstate, your homeowner’s insurance probably will not cover a fallen tree if the tree exhibited prior signs of rot or instability.
Trimming: Trimming is far less expensive than full removal. Crews can thin out the branches to reduce the “sail effect” when those high winter winds blow. Trimming can also can balance out the tree’s load and keep one side from being heavier than the other, a condition that may topple the tree.
Removing: Tree removal can entail a significant cost, especially in dense, metro areas where mobility is limited. The average cost to remove a large tree hovers in the $1,500 range, not including debris removal. Many communities require that you apply for a tree removal permit or at least put in a written notification. In many cases, the permit or notice must be accompanied by an arborist’s report stating that removal is required.
Check Roof and Flashing Stability
High winds can loosen roof shingles. Walk your roof and inspect it carefully. Shingles that are obviously loose should be replaced by a qualified roofer.
The condition of the flashing – the metal sleeves around the chimney and other roof protrusions – is more difficult to visually determine. Have a contractor or roofer inspect these areas.
Promote Drainage Away from House
When storms hit, massive amounts of water are directed at your house over a short period of time. Re-grade the soil around your house so it declines away from the foundation.
Clean and Repair Gutters and Downspouts
One source of water damage to foundations and basements is downspouts that force water straight into the ground. This can be easily and cheaply fixed by adding plastic downspout drainage lines that deposit the water away from the house. Fix or replace gutters in the summer. Clean gutters in the early fall, as soon as all the leaves are off the trees.
Purchase Ice Melt
In areas prone to freezing weather, walkways and driveways can become dangerously icy. Purchase ice melt in early fall (it may not be in stock in stores earlier than that). Calcium chloride is better than rock salt because it is less damaging to hardscaping and surrounding plants.
Remove Air Conditioners
By the end of summer, window unit air conditioners are no longer needed. A/C units are weak points for water intrusion. Even if there is a tight seal between the unit and the window, water can still enter through the back of the unit. Remove them and stow them away.
Remove Screens and Install Storm Windows
Depending on your climate, you can likely keep the windows open for a month or two past summer’s end. Eventually, though, it is good practice to remove the screens, wash them down, and store them until the following summer. Exterior retrofit storm windows can protect your windows against light debris impact and wind-blown rain, snow, and sleet.
Clean Chimneys for Wood-burning Fireplaces
Wood-burning fireplaces build up creosote, an oily black substance that can cause chimneys to internally ignite. Hiring a chimney sweep is the most effective way to rid your flue of creosote.
However, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) endorses one product, Joseph Enterprise’s Creosote Sweeping Log, as being acceptable for do-it-yourself creosote cleaning.
Prepare Your Home’s Interior and Yourself
Dealing with exterior issues during the summer, when the weather is fair, gives you more time and leeway to tackle interior areas as winter approaches.
Tune-Up Your Heating System
Bringing in a technician to conduct a furnace “tune-up” is like your biannual dentist’s visit for teeth cleaning: you can miss it sometimes, but it is highly recommended that you do every year.
The greatest value in doing the tune-up before winter storms is that you can accomplish it on your own terms. If you wait until your furnace dies during a storm, you will be at the mercy of overtasked HVAC companies, their tight schedules, and their often-inflated pricing.
Learn How to Shut Off the Water Main and Gas
Quick – Do you know where your water main and gas shut-off valves are located? If you cannot answer this question off the top of your head, you need to find out now.
Water main valves are typically located within the house on the perimeter, facing the street. Gas valves are located outside the house near the gas meter. Most gas and water shut-off valves require a special tool that costs less than $15.
Install Emergency Lighting
Emergency lighting is your protection against fumbling around in the dark when the power goes out. Available for less than $20, these lights stay plugged into outlets so they are always charging. When power to the outlet is cut off, they automatically turn on.
Create a Family Emergency Plan
Creating a family emergency plan is as simple as printing and filling out a form that is available at the FEMA website.
This plan lists phone numbers, addresses, and medical information for all family members. Because both power and cell phone reception can go down in storms, it is valuable to have all this information available in hard-copy form.
Emergencies come in many forms: fires, hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, and violent storms. In the event of a natural disaster or extreme weather, would you know what to do to protect your pet, to keep them safe?
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention suggests five (5) steps you can take to keep your pets safe during and after an emergency.
Have a plan- what you would do if you aren't home or can't get to your pet when disaster strikes
Make a kit- stock up on food and water, tap water could become contaminated
In Case of Emergency- have information with you that will help find your pet in case they get lost or run away
Make sure vaccinations are up to date- in case your pet needs to stay at a shelter
Have a safe haven- Pets get nervous too, make sure you have their favorite toys, a leash, and a bed or cage
The CDCP gives some other things to think about and other resources with information to help keep your pets safe in an emergency. Remember we are Always Here to Help.
Coming home to see this is never in anyone's plans!
With any leak or spill, it’s the water you don't see that can cause the most damage. When you experience a water damage, make the right choice. A mop and common household cleaning products may not be enough for the unseen water intrusions. While the surface may seem dry, the water you don’t see can contain bacteria, cause mold or rot, and cause other unseen damage.
The insurance industry estimates that approximately 90 percent of household damages come from water-related occurrences. The most commonly reported cause is leaky or broken pipes and plumbing fixtures. Home appliances are considered a leading cause of preventable water damage. By implementing a simple inspection and maintenance program, homeowners can reduce their risk significantly:
Dishwasher - Periodically check around the base of the dishwasher, as well as the water supply line under the sink.
Refrigerator - For refrigerators with ice makers, periodically check the hose connection attached to the water supply.
Washing Machine - Hoses should be inspected regularly for wetness around hose ends, as well as for signs of bulging, cracking or fraying. Hoses should be replaced every three to five years.
Water Heater - While the service life of the standard water heater is 10 to 15 years, water heaters should be inspected routinely for signs of leaks or tank rust. Water heaters should be located next to a floor drain or placed inside a drain pan piped to the floor drain.
So before risking the value of your home or further damage by attempting to clean and dry it yourself, call us to inspect your home.
An aerial view of Katy, TX after Hurricane Harvey.
In the days following the horror that was Hurricane Harvey, SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett was assigned to the SERVPRO Storm Team to help with restoration in the Houston area after the massive flooding. Our franchise owner, Bert, and four technicians headed down to Texas to do what they could to restore homes devastated by the storm.
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett was assigned mainly to the areas of Tomball and Katy, which are north and northwest of Houston. The homes in these areas had experienced indoor flooding anywhere from 1' to 4' high, and the water would take a few days to a week to recede. Even after the water had gone down in the homes, many streets were still flooded at least 2' high up to nearly 4', preventing service vehicles from getting through.
Due to the contamination in the flood waters, anything the water touched would be deemed non-salvageable. Walls, cabinets, furniture, appliances, electronics - everything was lost. This also meant a lot of demolition and repair. Our small crew worked tirelessly tearing out drywall and flooring, and setting equipment to get the homes dried out in an effort to prevent any mold from forming, as well as to get started with repairs.
Our franchise is extremely grateful to be a part of the SERVPRO family, and to be able to take part in opportunities such as this. We've learned a lot about what it takes to come back from a natural catastrophe and are looking forward to continually serving our community.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 517-999-0789
The indirect fired heater was used by SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett at a large commercial water loss caused by a pipe break.
Many people welcome the crisp, frosty winter weather, but nobody welcomes pipe-related headaches that come with the dropping temperatures. Frozen pipes are far more common than most would think, affecting hundreds of thousands of families every winter.
The best way to handle pipe freezes are to prevent them in the first place.
Follow these SERVPRO Tips:
Spend a little, Save a lot:
Temperatures only need to be at or below 31 degrees for your pipes to freeze and cause you a headache. Even if your house is 45 degrees, waterlines close to exterior walls (I.E. baseboard heaters) can be significantly colder because of their proximity to an uninsulated exterior wall, your house may be 45 degrees, but your pipes may be dangerously close to freezing.
Spend the extra few dollars in fuel, and save yourself a lot of time and frustration in the long run.
Let your pipes feel the heat:
Be sure to keep your pipes insulated to ensure warmth.
Open cabinet doors to allow uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances close to exterior doors, allowing the heat from your house to heat your pipes.
Keep it moving:
Keeping a faucet open to allow a continuous drip ensures that the water in your pipes are moving and decreases the chance of a freeze significantly.
In the event that you ever find yourself on the wrong end of a pipe-related problem, our SERVPRO team would be happy to lend a helping hand!
If you do have the unfortunate situation of freezing/busting pipes, call your local plumber to stop the leaking. Then, immediately call SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett to clean up the water damage before any additional damage occurs. We're here for you 24 hours a day.
A heat lamp caused this fire at a local school. SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett was called in to clean up the aftermath.
Fires can be especially devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts.
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We 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.
At SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett, we can help with cleaning up any fire damage in the East Lansing / Haslett area. We are a locally owned and operated business available to help with all your fire damage cleanup and restoration needs. Call us at (517) 999-0789 today to help mitigate your fire damage.
East Lansing / Haslett 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service
Water under high pressure can fill up a space in a short amount of time.
SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - (517) 999-0789
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
Your name and contact information
Your insurance information (if applicable)
The street address of the water-damaged home or business
When did the flooding or water damage occur?
What caused the water damage (if known)?
Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.
Mold on a beam in a basement caused by a serious backup in an unoccupied home.
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett for mold remediation services.
What Not to Do:
Don't touch or disturb the mold.
Don't blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
Don't attempt to dry the area yourself.
Don't spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it's a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today - (517) 999-0789
Faster to your East Lansing/Haslett Water Damage Event
This East Lansing split level home had a total of 8 feet of standing water.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 517-999-0789
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or 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.
A pipe burst in the second floor bathroom caused severe damage in this home in a matter of hours.
It might seem easy to find the source of the water damage if your basement floods, but most causes are not so obvious. Determining the origin of the problem may require a bit of detective work, and simply cleaning up the signs of damage often won’t fix the root cause.
Roof Leaks
Small leaks in your roof can lead to large amounts of damage. Flat roofs are particularly susceptible to water damage. Even though most flat roofs do have a slight incline, natural debris, like leaves and branches, can create areas where water can easily build up. Standing water can create cracks and leaks in your roof, which can result in water damage throughout your home.
Even if your roof has a steep incline, debris and freezing temperatures in the winter can create natural dams on your roof. Moss can also cause similar issues as it absorbs water and holds it in place on your roof. Regularly clear moss and debris off your roof to prevent damage.
Gutter Buildup
Ideally, gutters direct water off your roof and away from your home. However, it’s easy for leaves, branches, and other debris to clog your gutters. Over time, water will build up and start to overflow onto your walls. Small holes can form as well. Instead of guiding water away from your home, water will constantly leak down its walls. This creates an ideal situation for water damage to occur.
Multi-level homes should regularly inspect the gutters on all roof levels. If gutters start to overflow from a higher level, water can impact lower roofs with greater volume and velocity than rain and cause damage.
Frequently clear out your gutters, especially in the fall or after a windy day.
Broken Pipes
Depending on the location and severity of a broken or leaking pipe, this can be one of the most obvious causes of damage or one of the most subtle.
Winter is a common season for burst pipes. Insufficient insulation can cause pipes to freeze, expand and burst. People might leave on vacation and forget to keep the heat on while they’re gone, and the pipes freeze. Rust and age can also damage your pipes.
Unfortunately, it can take a while to notice a leaking pipe, which can give water plenty of time to damage your property. Watch for telltale signs such as lower water pressure, discolored water, or staining on your walls.
Sewage Backup
While you might prefer to avoid sewage in your day-to-day life, tree roots enjoy easy access to sources of water and fertilizer. Tree roots will often grow into and clog drain lines, which causes the sewage to back up and results in water damage in and around your home.
These clogs will often affect multiple drains. If you flush your toilet and hear gurgling coming from the shower drain, you may have a sewer clog. To prevent tree roots from finding their way into your sewage lines, you can install metal or wood barriers running vertically by the lines. Make sure they are buried 6-12” deeper than the pipe.
Toilets and sewer lines can also clog after someone flushes inappropriate items down the toilet. Make sure everyone in your home knows to avoid flushing feminine hygiene products, rags, cotton balls, paper towels, baby wipes, diapers, etc. If it’s not toilet paper, don’t send it down the toilet.
Broken or Malfunctioning Appliances
As water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers age, they can develop rust, leaks, and cracks. Even a small trickle of water can cause damage over time. Keep an eye on your machines as they get older. Watch for any decreases in performance, and inspect the appliances regularly.
These are a few of the more common causes of water damage. The truth is, wherever there is water in your home, there is a potential for damage if something goes wrong. At SERVPRO® of East Lansing/Haslett, we know how to fix water damage at the source of the problem. Using our experience and training, we offer long-term solutions to make your home “Like it never even happened.”
We know that water problems can occur at any time, which is why we offer 24-hour emergency service.
If you find signs of water damage in your home, don’t hesitate to call us at 517-999-0789.
Black mold covered the walls of this Mason, MI home.
Stachybotrys chartarum is the type of mold often called “black mold” or “toxic mold”. Sensational news reports warn about the dangers of black mold and these stories can be alarming and confusing. Any mold in your home should be treated with caution – stay out of affected areas and don’t touch or disturb the mold.
Please refer to our Mold Damage Tips to learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives.
How Do I Tell If It’s Black Mold?
Since many types of mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should contact a qualified mold remediation company regardless of the color or type of mold. In many instances, multiple types of mold can exist in the same house or structure. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, contact SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett immediately.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today 517-999-0789.
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 toxins harmful to humans and pets.
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.
Mold develops on this wall after water damage in the clubhouse.
This Jackson, MI golf course was closed over the winter. During the course of a two-week period while the owners were away, as they are every year, a pipe burst causing extreme water and mold damage everywhere. In this short amount of time, mold was able to develop rapidly, and on almost everything, due to the warm temperature from the heat being kept on, the moisture from the water damage, and the undisturbed area.
As soon as the owners found the clubhouse in dismay, they called SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett. Our technicians were able to arrive promptly, perform an evaluation, and determine a scope of work to restore the property to preloss condition.
If you find your business in need of mitigation and restoration, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett right away.
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett - 517-999-0789.
Like it never even happened.
Heightened Humidity Levels Can Escalate Mold Growth
Serious mold growth on the wood beams of the basement in this unoccupied Mason, MI home.
The hot, humid weather of Michigan's late spring and summer months bring about the perfect conditions for mold growth. While the ideal temperature for mold growth is between 77°F and 86°F, mold can grow at any temperature from 32°F up to 95°F.
Although mold is ubiquitous, it does require three things to grow - nutrients, moisture and time. Mold can obtain nutrients from many sources, but substances with a high cellulose content provide the most. A material which is highly cellulose is found in nearly every home - drywall. Other nutrient sources include dust and dander. Moisture aids in the decaying process caused by mold. When water vapor condenses on surfaces cooler than the air, mold is enabled to flourish. Mold growth begins 24 hours to 10 days after the provision of growing conditions.
Common causes in homes and businesses that escalate growing conditions are floods, leaky roofs, poor maintenance, and plumbing issues. Hidden leaks can go unnoticed for weeks, providing mold spores with the ideal conditions, and will usually be truly set in by the time it's discovered. Other areas in the home where condensation commonly forms are perimeter walls. Condensation forms when water vapor in the air meets cold surfaces and cools to become liquid. Perimeter walls are typically more susceptible to condensation gathering because of the cool outdoor air on the other side.
Basements are the most common area of the home to become affected by mold, as they are often the most damp because of the cool temperature. Unfinished basements are typically dark and go longer being undisturbed, giving spores ample time and conditions to grow.
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
If you suspect a mold issue in your home or business, call us today - 517.999.0789
Warmer seasons can bring about destructive tornadoes around mid-Michigan. Peak tornado season for the northern states is late spring through early summer, and most commonly occur between 3:00pm and 9:00pm, but can strike anytime. Tornadoes can develop quickly and without warning, so keeping your home and family prepared for storms and power outages is essential to ensuring everyone remains safe during unpredictable weather.
During storms, keep an eye out for skies turning dark and greenish, watch for large hail, low-lying clouds, and loud roars similar to a freight train. These are danger signs a tornado may be approaching and you should seek shelter immediately.
If you are under a tornado warning and in a structure, get to the lowest level of the building or home. If you are too far from the lowest level to get there in time, go to a small interior room or hallway. Manufactured and mobile homes offer little protection from tornadoes - getting out immediately and to a pre-defined location such as a storm shelter or nearby building. When you're outside and a tornado warning occurs, take cover in a stationary vehicle, covering your head with your arms, a blanket or a coat. If you cannot get inside anywhere, lie in an area noticeably lower than the roadway. Never take cover under an overpass or a bridge!
Be sure to build an emergency preparedness kit in case you're caught in a storm or power outage. Visit ready.gov/kit to see what essentials you should have in your kit. While building your kit, it's a good idea to gather the family and plan a meeting spot in case anyone gets separated during a storm.
Wind, rain and hail can do a lot of damage to your home during a storm. If you find yourself needing emergency tarping or boarding up, call SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett at 517-999-0789. We're here to help.
When Storms or Floods Hit East Lansing/Haslett, SERVPRO is Ready!
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in East Lansing/Haslett!
SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit the East Lansing/Haslett area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 517-999-0789
Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:
1. Flashlights for each family member
2. Battery-operated radio and clock
3. Extra batteries
4. Containers of bottled water
5. Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants
6. Non-electric can opener
7. List of important phone numbers
8. First-aid kit
Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.
•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
•Choose foods your family will eat.
•Remember any special dietary needs.
•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.
•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.
•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener
•Protein or fruit bars
•Dry cereal or granola
•Peanut butter
•Dried fruit
•Nuts
•Crackers
•Canned juices
•Non-perishable pasteurized milk
•High energy foods
•Vitamins
•Food for infants
•Comfort/stress foods
These and many other helpful tips are available at https://www.ready.gov/power-outages. When bad weather strikes the East Lansing/Haslett area, knowing what to do until SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett arrives will make a difference.
Mold was hiding behind drywall and insulation in this Haslett, MI home.
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
Mold spores are microscopic and 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 can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 517-999-0789
This basement fire happened quickly without warning.
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our 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 East Lansing/Haslett 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. We 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 Us Today – 517.999.0789
While we've still got 4 weeks of winter left, Michigan's unpredictable freezing and thawing can lead to an early spring in an under-prepared basement. Following these tips can help reduce the impact spring floods have on you and your property.
Advance Preparation Prepare in advance with a SERVPRO® Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP). Our convenient mobile app stores all your utility and emergency response information in one place, so you can access this information from your smartphone or computer.
Watch for Pooling Water Look for places around your property where water pools, and channel it away from buildings. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and they are directing water as intended.
Maintain Sump Pump If you have a sump pump, check to be sure it is operational before water starts rising. Consider a back-up generator to ensure your pump works when you need it most. Contact your insurance agent to add coverage in case your sump pump fails.
Raise Storage Goods Use shelving and/or pallets to keep storage items off the floor to reduce the impact of small floods. In many situations, raising boxes just a few inches will be enough to keep storage goods above the water line.
Cut Power if Necessary As rising water approaches the level of electrical outlets, you risk having a live current flow through all the water. Cut the power if you can safely do so without standing in water. Otherwise, evacuate and contact an electrician to cut the power before you go back in for recovery.
Keep Storm Drains Clear If you see water pooling around a storm drain, the drain may be clogged with debris. Clearing the debris will help keep the water flowing away from your neighborhood.
Consider Flood Insurance Homeowners insurance will not cover floods; you must purchase a separate policy for flood protection. When all else fails, flood insurance will provide you the means to respond to a catastrophic flooding event.
Be Aware on the Road Be careful when driving during spring storms, especially when you hear flash flood warnings. Never drive into fully submerged roadway. The water surface will be at the same level as the pavement you can see. This view can deceive you into thinking the water is shallow because you cannot see how the road dips under the surface.
Act Fast When a flood happens, you need to act fast to dry out any wet items, particularly structural materials like walls and flooring. Call SERVPRO® of East Lansing / Haslett at 517-999-0789 to extract water and mitigate any mold growth. Our franchise professionals have the training and experience to make flood damage “Like it never even happened.”
IICRC logos clearly identify certified technicians who have gone through rigorous training.
SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett
SERVPRO of East Lansing / Haslett specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: 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.
24/7 Emergency Service
Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of East Lansing/Haslett a call to get that resolved!
