The Dangerous Elements of Summer Storms | SERVPRO of Orland Park

10/2/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Orland Park to help restore your Illinois home or business after any disaster!

We are all glad to have said goodbye to the cold and snow of another long winter, but now we get to start preparing for summer storms! Severe weather can pop up at any point during the season, so being ready for it when it happens is crucial.

In northern Illinois, we are vulnerable to high winds, heavy rain and the occasional tornado or two. This can all work against us to create some dangerous situations when a strong storm rolls into town.

Our storm damage restoration team has put together some tips on how to prepare your home for severe weather so read on to stay prepared.

Flooded Basement in Orland Park

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Basement or Leaking Pipes Cleanup Service

If you have a basement in your home, you might be aware that these can be the first place to flood during a water emergency.  Water intrusions can occur from sources inside or outside your home. Excessive rain or snow melting can cause the ground to over saturate and water will find its way inside. 

Let us take the stress off your shoulders.

A flooded basement not only is a destructive event, its one of the most emotionally stressful things you may ever go through.  Our team of trained, caring, and professional water damage technicians is here for you  and your family.  We will guide you through the process and do everything as quickly and efficiently as possible in order to get your home and life back to normal.

Call us today (708) 532-3377 

The Warning Signs of a Tornado in Orland Park

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Tornadoes are one of the most feared because their strong winds can cause devastating damage to entire towns.  Tornado winds can exceed speeds of 100 miles per hour and this can easily damage homes and businesses as well as uproot trees and toss cars around like they are a toy.  Since it is possible for a tornado to form anywhere in the U.S., it is important to look for the warning signs of the impending storm so you can get to a safe location. 

The Difference Between A Tornado Watch And Tornado Warning

Your local news will usually put out a tornado watch or warning.  If your area is under watch, this means that your area is experiencing conditions that make it possible for a tornado to form.  You should be on alert if a tornado watch has been having been issued in the event the situation becomes more dangerous. When a tornado warning has been issued, this means there has been a tornado sighted and you need to take shelter immediately.  

Tornado Warning Signs

There are several things you can look for when you know there is a threat of a tornado.  Early warning signs are increasing winds, clouds moving rapidly, and the sky and clouds look green.  Hail is another early warning sign of a tornado and what causes the sky to look the greenish color.

Tornado Preparedness

Knowledge is key to tornado preparedness.  Make sure everyone in your family knows the signs of an approaching tornado and they know what to do.  

During a storm listen to your local news or a weather radio station for updates.  You can also install a weather app on your smart phone that will send you updates.  

Also, you should consider confining pets to a carrier or placing dogs on a leash during a tornado watch so that you can transfer them to a safe room in case the warning is issued.  

Even the most extensive preparation cannot prevent a tornado from causing significant damage to your home.  If this happens it is important to call a storm damage restoration professional immediately to assist you in recovering.

Storm Damage and Mold in Palos Heights

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Information on Mold Remediation in Palos Heights, IL

Mold growth begins anywhere from 2-3 days after a storm causes water damage in Alsip.  The mold is a harmful issue, and it can negatively affect your health, house, and the contents within your home.  As the length of exposure to storm water damage increases, the chance for air spores that spread mold also escalates. Mold remediation becomes more challenging as the signs of mold growth that include musty odors, and discolored surfaces, become more apparent.

Act Fast

Our highly trained mold removal technicians use the latest technology and tools to quickly address your mold problem in a

manner that effectively removes mold colonies. Unlike DIY techniques, our SERVPRO professional service does not carry the risk of improperly removing mold, in this way, expediting a more rapid return to a healthy home environment.  We are also trained and licensed to handle lead, asbestos and other dangerous materials that may show up during the mold removal process.

We are available 24 per day. Before your appointment, be sure to:

• Inventory damaged and missing goods for your insurance claim.
• Throw away all sealed and unsealed food and beverage contacted by storm flood waters. 
• Open windows and doors.
• Refrain from using electrical devices until it is safe.
• Remove standing water when possible.
• Use dehumidifiers and fans to ventilate your home; SERVPRO can perform this task upon arrival.

Our mold remediation technician will also determine if any contents in your home are salvageable.  Porous items that are wet for over 48 hours and cannot be completely dried and cleaned must be disposed of.

This list includes carpet, carpet padding, ceiling tiles, clothing, drywall, floor tiles, insulation, leather goods, paper, upholstery, wallpaper and wood items.

When our mold remediation expert arrives, he will:

• Apply biocides.
• Decide whether or not you can stay in your house during the mold remediation process.
• Determine if additional ventilation and containment is needed.
• Look for mold in the HVAC system and biological hazards in the home.
• Test for any additional mold after the mold remediation process.
• Use quick structural drying techniques.

Click on these links for more information about services in Alsip.

Mold Damage Remediation in Palos Heights, IL

Flooding and Water Damage Restoration in Palos Heights, IL

Here are some more helpful links on mold:

EPA Mold Guide

IICRC 5 Principles to Mold Remediation

When Storms Hit Orland Park, SERVPRO is Ready!

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orland Park has experience restoring homes affected by storms and flooding.  We can respond immediately with highly trained technicians who employ specialized equipment and techniques to restore your home or business back to 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 Orland Park,  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 (708) 532-3377.

Storm Damage in Orland Park

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Orland Park Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of Orland Park provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any sized disaster in Orland Park We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service

• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster

• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

• Locally Owned and Operated

• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions?

Call Us 24/7 – (708) 532-3377

Residential Services

Whether your Orland Park home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration

• Fire Damage Restoration

• Mold Remediation

• Storm Damage Restoration

• Cleaning Services

• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Orland Park commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: Commercial Storm Services.

The Sheer Volume Of Water Will Blow Your Mind!

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

We can never really comprehend the volume of water that is shed from the structures we inhabit until storm damage opens a portion of it to the elements. This type of catastrophe must have a swift, professional response. Hiring a company like SERVPRO that specializes in flood damage and overall disaster remediation is the key to a successful outcome.

Here is a typical storm damage scenario: torrential rains and high winds hit your home for hours. Nearby tree limbs fall, break windows and cause a corner of the roof to collapse.  This allows water to rush in through your attic and to the floors below leaving you with flood damage throughout your Palos Heights home. As the storm begins to weaken, you realize the safety of your family and the structure of your house require a professional response. Leaving even a portion of your home open to the elements risks more water damage, invasion by pests, or unauthorized personnel.

SERVPRO can meet your immediate need to temporarily secure and protect the storm-damaged structure, and prevent further damage or unauthorized entry with board-up and roof tarping services.  Then the process of mitigating and remediating the interior can begin. Storm and flood damage calls for a broad range of skills and specialized equipment possessed by this remediation industry leader.
 
Expect the SERVPRO team to take the time to create a firm plan outlining all the jobs that must be completed to prepare your home for re-construction. Standing water on every level of your home must be pumped out or extracted with powerful vacuums. The majority of the water collects in the basement or lowest level, so immediate attention focuses there, but SERVPRO's properly prepared and trained technicians examine every inch of the dwelling for flood damage.
 
Following the removal of the water, SERVPRO's certified workers take moisture measurements of structures, air, and possessions as a post-disaster baseline. Drying goals shortly emerge from their skilled computations, and the recovery spotlight now shines on achieving appropriate moisture levels to minimize permanent damage to wood, metal, and fibers, among other things. Commercial air movers and low grain refrigerant dehumidifiers are precisely placed where needed to dry out the structure, flooring, floor coverings, walls, ceilings, and belongings.

Contact SERVPRO of Orland Park for your flood damage needs-  (708) 532-3377

Water damage on your hardwood floor does not have to stress you out anymore

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage To Hardwood Floors After A Storm

Waterflood from a storm can lead to colossal property destruction. Hardwood floors are especially vulnerable to water damage. When it makes its way into the building, the water can penetrate hardwood floors and cause irreversible damage.

When a storm occurs in your Chicago area, our water removal services can help deal with the situation. SERVPRO has highly trained technicians who can dry the water damaged hardwood floors quickly and efficiently.

Hardwoods tend to hold up better from moisture than softwoods in a water damage situation. During a storm, the combined high density of the wood and high moisture conditions causes it to retain more water. Our water removal procedure centers on preventing permanent warping, cupping, and buckling. The amount of water present and how long it has been there can influence the extent of the water damage.

SERVPRO technicians are IICRC Certified and can assess whether the cup and warp are severe before choosing a solution. If not, we may use sanding during the refinishing process. Before this, we have to stabilize the moisture content level to below 12 percent. It can take 1-2 months before initiating the sanding and refinishing processes, as we have to wait for the wood floors to acclimate. When done prematurely, sanding can cause your hardwood floors to cup or crown as drying progresses. One of our techniques is to place drying mats, about 10 square feet each, and suction the water from this large surface area from between the joints, and if structured, the below subfloor and floor joists.

Veneer Hardwood flooring is more vulnerable to the water damage caused by a storm, as it has a considerably thinner surface. The layers of these types of planks present an almost no chance of restoration. It is typically more economical to discard and start anew. The purpose of our water removal efforts is to dry the hardwood floor as much as possible. Drying prevents mold growth on the wood, which can occur when moisture levels are above 20 percent.

This type of water damage situation also requires minimizing relative humidity to 30-45 percent. SERVPRO technicians use air movers to achieve this purpose, which facilitates airflow above and underneath the wood floor. We may also need to increase the room temperature after the storm, which helps accelerate the evaporation process.

Water damage on your hardwood floor does not have to stress you out anymore. SERVPRO of Orland Park is available 24/7 to offer quick water removal services to your community. Call us today (708) 532-3377. 

SERVPRO of Orland Park Specializes In Water-Related Cleanup & Restoration Services

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Chicago is called the "windy city" but sometimes it feels like it should be called the "city of flooded basements."  Over the past few years, there has been an increase of flooding in the Chicago area and that's worth paying attention to. 

When it comes to water damage, it can cost you more if you ignore it.  Most homeowners and business owners only think of the costs of replacing products, equipment and personal property.  But what about those other costs?  You also have to consider costs that you might pay such as rent, loans, wages, etc. Not to mention your business would lose operating profit from not being open and the inconvenience of having to relocate. 

SERVPRO of Orland Park specializes in water-related cleanup and restoration services.  We have completed numerous restoration projects in the Orland Park area.  Our technicians are thoroughly trained both on-site as well as classroom instruction on restoration best practices. 

Here are a few of the water damage restoration services we provide:

• Water removal
• Cleanup
• Damage restoration
• Clothing restoration
• Electronics repair
• Deodorization and carpet cleaning
• Photo documentation of the site
• Insurance coordination

Disasters don't happen on a regular 9am-5pm schedule, so our services don’t either! SERVPRO of Orland Park is available to you 24/7.  If your home or business has recently experienced flooding or water damage, call us today!

When Coming Back From Vacation Turns Into A Nightmare

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

Fall is here! While the crips autumn temps haven’t officially arrived, and the pumpkin spice isn’t yet flowing the level we would like, Chicagoland residents know that the cold months are just around the corner, and the idea of heading to warmer climates for a vacation has already started to whisper in the ear of many people in our area.

So why are we talking about a winter vacation where the weather hasn’t even turned cold yet? We have some great tips for you to right down and follow through on so your fun vacation doesn’t trunk into a nightmare when you return home!

First of all, if you are vacationing during the cold months, it is a good idea to close the "main" water shut off. Unless you have a humidifier connected to your HVAC system that requires water when the furnace turns on, shutting the main water supply off when you are away is a good practice. We have encountered many frozen pipes that have done major damage when people are away during cold spells. Also, don't turn the heat off or down too low. It is vital for your entire home that it doesn’t get too cold indoors, and this simple trick of turning down the heat a little, but not too much, will potentially save you a lot of money by helping to prevent the bitter cold from permeating your pipes, walls and interior construction. 

If you do come back from vacation to a disaster, call SERVPRO of Orland Park! We are faster to any disaster and are here to get you back to “Like it never even happened.” 

Storm Season Brings Havoc and Uncertainty, But SERVPRO Is Here For You In Orland Park

10/2/2021 (Permalink)

The dreaded tornado siren blares. You hear it and wonder to yourself “is it a test?” “Should I be concerned?”

You look outside and see the ominous dark clouds and the spinning vortex that you have observed many times on TV and in the movies. This is happening! What do you do?

This situation repeats itself many times each year in the USA and in the Midwest especially.Tornadoes are one of the most feared storms/disasters because their strong winds can cause devastating damage to entire towns, and they are completely arbitrary at times with how they damage strikes. Tornado winds can exceed speeds of 100 miles per hour and this can easily damage homes and businesses as well as uproot trees and toss cars around like they are a toy.  Since it is possible for a tornado to form anywhere in the U.S., it is important to look for the warning signs of the impending storm so you can get to a safe location. 

The Difference Between A Tornado Watch And Tornado Warning

Your local news will usually put out a tornado watch or warning.  If your area is under watch, this means that your area is experiencing conditions that make it possible for a tornado to form.  You should be on alert if a tornado watch has been having been issued in the event the situation becomes more dangerous. When a tornado warning has been issued, this means there has been a tornado sighted and you need to take shelter immediately.  

Tornado Warning Signs

There are several things you can look for when you know there is a threat of a tornado.  Early warning signs are increasing winds, clouds moving rapidly, and the sky and clouds look green.  Hail is another early warning sign of a tornado and what causes the sky to look the greenish color.

Tornado Preparedness

Knowledge is key to tornado preparedness.  Make sure everyone in your family knows the signs of an approaching tornado and they know what to do.  

During a storm listen to your local news or a weather radio station for updates.  You can also install a weather app on your smart phone that will send you updates.  

Also, you should consider confining pets to a carrier or placing dogs on a leash during a tornado watch so that you can transfer them to a safe room in case the warning is issued.  

Even the most extensive preparation cannot prevent a tornado from causing significant damage to your home.  If this happens it is important to call a storm damage restoration professional immediately who can arrive in a timely manner and can get you back preloss conditions. SERVPRO of Orland Park is here for you whether it be to assist after a storm, flood or fire! Call us today! 

Flooding Woes? SERVPRO of Orland Park Is Here For You

10/2/2021 (Permalink)

Water from flooding can tend to seem random and the damage can appear to be unpredictable. Flood water is not only destructive and almost always unplanned, it can lead to some very serious danger that you need to be aware of! 

Homes can be susceptible to gas leaks, fires, structural damage and other additional disasters even when damage is relatively light, as floodwaters may combine with other issues to create a dangerous situation. 

If you are going to enter a situation where flooding has occurred, it is important to be alert at all times when inspecting the flood damaged area. If you have encountered a strong smell, be sure to tell your SERVPRO technician right away and describe the odor.  Smells are one way to identify a potentially deadly gas leak, or mold growth. These odors will usually be foul, but most importantly, they stand out from others. 

If you experience any flooding or odors in your home call SERVPRO of Orland Park today! We are faster to any disaster and are here to get you back to “Like it never even happened.” (708) 532-3377 

Disaster times 4! How SERVPRO of Orland Park Was There For Our Military Men & Women

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

It isn't often you go through a serious disaster, let alone two. The military service members in Fort Polk, Louisiana though, went through 4 major disasters in just a few months. SERVPRO, was there to help them in their time of need! Over 10,000 military service members and their families, were affected by the Category 4 Hurricanes Laura and Delta, which struck Louisiana in August and October of 2020, and in between that, Tropical Storm Beta, which delivered hurricane-level winds, rain, and flooding. Then, when things seemed to be over, in February of 2021, they suffered through an uncharacteristically severe ice storm that led to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) issuing a Louisiana Disaster Declaration in March 2021.  In partnership with Corvias Property Management, nine SERVPRO franchises were able to assist in repairing the interiors of more than 800 occupied homes. "We were honored to be called on by the fine folks at Corvias Property Management to assist the brave military men and women in their hour of need," said Frank Zubricki, owner of SERVPRO of Orland Park. "When I think of all that these amazing folks have done for us, it was a privilege to be a part of this cleanup and repair effort, and we are so heartened to have been able to play a part in getting these families lives back to normal." When disaster strikes, SERVPRO is here to help. We are faster to any disaster and are ready to use our equipment, expertise, and experience to get things back to "Like it never even happened." To read more about the disasters in Louisiana, and the Corvias Property Management and SERVPRO response, click here to read the original press release."

Ask The Experts: Being ready for the storm is a huge part of the battle!

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can happen at any time since as we all know the weather in the Chicago area can be unpredictable to say the least. Being prepared is a must so here is our recommended list:

• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Cellphone battery back up charger
• Canned food
• Manual Can Opener
• Bottled Water
• Blankets
• Fire Extinguisher
• Battery Power Radio

Having these items may help keep panic at a minimum.  Keep these items in a safe place you can go in the event of any type of storm.  If you have a basement, or possibly in a bathroom closet if you do not have a basement. The canned food should have a long shelf life so be sure to check expiration dates at least once a year and replenish your supply if necessary. Also be sure to regularly test your batteries. 

Drying Out Your Property After A Flood

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

It may seem impossible to surmount the flood damage done to your Orland Park home after a storm blows through the area, but no matter how severe the situation may seem, SERVPRO is available on a 24/7 basis to help out. Our tools and training enable us to provide full-featured flood mitigation and restoration services even for large office buildings and industrial centers, and we provide the same quality and level of care to residential zones in the community as well. Call us up after a disaster, and you might expect to see some or all of these features of our service put to work in your home.

Innovative Technology

SERVPRO works hard to stay on the cutting edge of restorations technology nationally, providing our technicians with some of the most advanced tools on the market to evaluate and combat flood damage in Orland Park. From small digital tools like Thermo hygrometers that locate and identify spots of moisture deep within walls and materials, to large industrial machines such as air movers that create powerful, controlled wind currents within your home to whisk away moisture, our arsenal of equipment allows us to adapt to any situation and provide the care needed to get everything back to the way it was before the flood.

Rigorous Training

Every SERVPRO technician receives weeks of challenging certifications and job training before ever setting foot on a job site. However, even once an employee is accredited, their training is far from over. We structure our teams to make sure that no job site goes without veteran, experienced restoration professionals to oversee the situation and provide guidance through their years of experience and dozens of completed jobs. Through our combination of formal schooling and on-the-job experience gathering, every team we send to homes in the local area brings experience and accreditation with it.

SERVPRO of Orland Park helps local homeowners to recover from the effects of flood damage. If you or someone you know needs some assistance call us today (708) 532-3377.

Storms, Winds, Tree Limbs in Your Orland Park Home

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Multiple tornadoes came through our area this past week. High winds sent tree branches everywhere and days later a lot of homeowners are still cleaning up their yards and tarping their roofs from the damage. 

SERVPRO of Orland Park can help. We can inspect the damage and secure the structure by boarding up your window or protecting it with plastic sheeting. The techs can also check for additional breaches to the property such as a hole in the roof or a broken door and secure them as they did with the window. Securing your home helps prevent water from flowing into the house. Plus, it can protect against wildlife or unwanted visitors from entering the structure.

Next, our SERVPRO team can remove all excess water from the residence. This step helps to reduce further damages to your home. Quick water removal can also prevent wood rot and mold growth. When extracting water, the techs may employ truck-mounted, or portable extractors or commercial grade pumps to eliminate the water fast. The level of water inside the house helps determine what type of equipment the crew may utilize for the job.
 

Stormwater can also cause damage to the interior walls, floor tile, and ceilings.  If this happens, our skilled technicians may have to remove various wet materials such as drywall or insulation. If the job requires further construction though we can do substantial rebuilds, our techs can assist you in getting in touch with a qualified contractor. Since flood water is contaminated, our crew must discard all wet carpeting and padding as well as any furnishings or contents that come in contact with the water. During the drying process, the team may employ air movers and industrial axial fans to dry the affected areas thoroughly. The crew can also use dehumidifiers to eliminate moisture from inside the structure.

SERVPRO of Orland Park can restore your property to its preloss condition when possible.  Contact us today (708) 532-3377.

Flood Damage Remediation After A Storm

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

We can never really comprehend the volume of water that is shed from the structures we inhabit until storm damage opens a portion of it to the elements. This type of catastrophe must have a swift, professional response. Hiring a company like SERVPRO that specializes in flood damage and overall disaster remediation is the key to a successful outcome.

Here is a typical storm damage scenario: torrential rains and high winds buffet your home for hours. Nearby tree limbs fall, break windows and cause a corner of the roof to collapse. The breach allows water to rush in through your attic and to the floors below, leaving you with flood damage throughout your Orland Park home. As the storm begins to weaken, you realize the safety of your family and the structure of your house require a professional response. Leaving even a portion of your home open to the elements risks more water damage, invasion by pests, or unauthorized personnel.

SERVPRO can meet your immediate need to temporarily secure and protect the storm-damaged structure, and prevent further damage or unauthorized entry with board-up and roof tarping services.  Then the process of mitigating and remediating the interior can begin. 

 
Expect the SERVPRO team to take the time to create a firm plan outlining all the jobs that must be completed to prepare your home for re-construction. Standing water on every level of your home must be pumped out or extracted with powerful vacuums. The majority of the water collects in the basement or lowest level, so immediate attention focuses there, but SERVPRO's properly prepared and trained technicians examine every inch of the dwelling for flood damage.
 
Following the removal of the water, SERVPRO's certified workers take moisture measurements of structures, air, and possessions as a post-disaster baseline. Drying goals shortly emerge from their skilled computations, and the recovery spotlight now shines on achieving appropriate moisture levels to minimize permanent damage to wood, metal, and fibers, among other things. Commercial air movers and low grain refrigerant dehumidifiers are precisely placed where needed to dry out the structure, flooring, floor coverings, walls, ceilings, and belongings.

Call SERVPRO of Orland Park for your flood damage needs (708) 532-3377.

Using The Right Water Extraction Tools

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Residential flooding does not always result in a submerged ground floor and occupants with very wet feet. In fact, in many cases we handle don’t involve huge amounts of standing water. Either the leak or fault is not severe enough to cause intensive water intrusion. Alternatively, the laws of physics have their way, and liquid water gets trapped in porous materials.

On the other hand, SERVPRO also has lots of experience dealing with severe cases of flood damage in Orland Park. When storm waters intrude upon a structure, the cleanup is different from a ground floor pipe bursts that cover the rooms in two inches of standing water; we are here to help you eliminate it quickly. To do this, we employ a range of straightforward and sophisticated extraction tools.

Weighted Compression
These tools work by, literally, squeezing the liquid out of fabrics (usually carpets). They use heavyweights (sometimes an operator stands on top) to push water out of the underlay and into an extraction machine. One such water extractor is called a Rover.

Vacuum Sealed Water Claw
Water claws are compatible with ‘carry-in,’ and truck-mounted pumps, but the latter is only present on-site in rare circumstances. The tool depends on the presence of water to construct a tight seal, so the SERVPRO technicians first extract as much liquid as possible from the underlay. Then, the process gets completed with a traditional carpet cleaning wand.

Traditional Carpet Wands
The more basic carpet cleaning wands are not as efficient at extracting liquid from subflooring and other types of fibrous materials. For this reason, SERVPRO only uses them in conjunction with other tools. Water mats also increase the suction surface of the carpet and are very effective in drawing moisture out from the seams of hardwood flooring. This also helps to dry out the supporting floor joists in a crawl space structure.

Hard Floor Squeegees
While tools like squeegees are quite simple, they can be an effective way to push excess water out and away from structural materials like hardwood, linoleum, and tile floors.

The Purpose of Extraction
The efficient and controlled extraction of standing water has a very positive impact on the overall drying process. It has a significant effect, for example, on the number of drying tools and the timeframes required to restore the home and contents to an optimal moisture equilibrium. Vacuum tools are the best form of standing water removal. The stronger the vacuum pressure and airflow, the more powerful the extraction equipment. For instance, truck-mounted devices have a much greater vacuum pressure than the more compact, portable tools, though the latter is a staple of most residential cases of flood damage.

SERVPRO of Orland Park has the expertise and skills you need to eliminate flood damage quickly. We service homeowners within the Orland Park area. Call us today (708) 532-3377

Sump Pump Maintenance

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Our area has not seen much rain in the past couple of weeks so the last thing on your mind is to check your sump pump.  A quick checkup on it might prevent water damage to your basement in the future. 

• Check that the unit is plugged in and the breaker is not tripped. 
• Make sure the float is free of any debris and away from the side wall which may prevent it from working properly. 
• Check the inlet and make sure that it is free of any debris that could prevent it from pumping the water out. 
• Check the area where the sump pump drains to ensure that it is far enough from the foundation so that water will not leak right back in. 

An easy way to test if its working is to fill the pit with enough water to reach the float and this should trigger the sump pump to start pumping. 

If you do experience water damage in your basement call us (708) 532-3377

Removing Rain Water From Basement

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

Back in May, our area sustained a substantial amount of rainfall in a short amount of time. When this happens, water can infiltrate a home or business very quickly.  Most of the time it is a problem in the basement of a home or crawlspace. If you live on a slab, however, you may end up with rain water on the main level of your home. 

Water can seep in under garage doors, around improperly sealed windows or through cracks in the cement foundation or walls.  Water will always travel the path of least resistance. 

If you find yourself with water and you don't know where to start, SERVPRO of Orland Park is here to help.  We have several different methods of extracting the water.  It is extremely important to remove the water as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. 

Call us today (708)532-3377

Flood Damage To Homes and Businesses

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orland Park is here to help!

The Chicago South Suburban areas luckily do not see flooding too often. However, this past May around Memorial Day, Oak Lawn did get hit with some flooding.The entire area had heavy rains for days on end and the street sewer systems could not keep up. This caused many homes and businesses to flood. 

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are constantly monitoring the weather and anticipating such storm events. Immediate action and a fast response can lessen the damage and limit restoration costs.  Our crews make sure we have our trucks all packed with the supplies and equipment needed for your flood emergency.

A fast response is crucial to flooding and storm damage, because it reduces secondary damage and restoration costs. Storms don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. Our technicians will respond immediately, day or night, to help Orland Park business owners and residents.

If you have experienced flooding or water damage in your home call us today (708)532-3377.

The Unexpected Danger Of Water In Your Home

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

This time of year it can rain unexpectedly and leave a large amount of water behind causing your home or business to flood. With the most recent storm that passed through our area, that is exactly what happened. Many area businesses and homes flooded and in some homes the water reached over 4 feet high because once it entered the home it had nowhere else to go. 

In one house in particular, the water level reached an electrical panel that had not been shut off. This caused the panel to explode and the entire back of the home was engulfed in flames within seconds. This seems impossible but it does happen. Electric and water do not mix. Luckily everyone was able to escape the home safely and without injury.  

What could they have done to prevent this? If you ever notice there is water in your home, identify the source of the water.  If it is coming from a pipe or appliance you can turn off the water in your home.  If the water is coming from an outside source you cannot control, such as a flood, have the electric company safely turn off the power to your home. 

If you have flood or fire damage in your home we can help (708) 532-3377

Severe Storm Damage Can Cause Flooding To Your Orland Park Home

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

The Orland Park area has seen significant amounts of rainfall over the past couple months.  The more severe the weather event, the more significant the water damage is that results in the affected area of your home. 

Extraction of the water is paramount to preventing further structural damages, and based on the location of the affected area, our SERVPRO team utilizes either portable pumps or truck-mounted pumps to address this primary concern. Drying efforts typically get achieved with the use of air movers. Infrared scanning is another part of our assessment, to make sure that further water damages are not persisting out of sight.

Flood damages might not seem like a natural threat to your home, but it can and does happen. If your home experiences storm damage that results in flooding, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Orland Park (708) 532-3377. Our experienced emergency response team is available 24/7.

Storm Damage In Bridgeview

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

A storm can hit any town unexpectedly leaving behind even a larger disaster than fire or water damage can cause because it is not limited to one building.  SERVPRO is ready to help. Our 24 hour, 7 day a week on call staff are trained and ready with equipment fully ready and waiting at our facilities to roll out the minute we get the call to help. We are able to extract water that has infiltrated areas that it is not supposed to be, or clean up a back up that has occurred from storm water.  We provide services to both residential and commercial businesses and we have the resources to handle multiple calls all at once.  We are here to help ease some of the stress that occurs when a disaster happens. Know that when you make the call to SERVPRO we are making it "Like it never even happened."

April Showers Bring May Flowers

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

"April Showers Bring May Flowers" so be prepared for rain on the way to the Chicago Area

Most everyone has heard of the saying "April Showers Bring May Flowers." The arrival of April is the first sign in the Chicago area that warmer temperatures may finally be on its way.  

First we need to get through the April showers! Now that the temperature is slowly moving up, this a great time to get outside and check the outside of your house and get prepared for any rain that maybe coming in the month of April. 

Check around the outside of your foundation for any cracks where water might possible find its way into your basement. Also, you should check your sump pump and make sure it is working properly. If you are able to, clean out your gutters and make sure your downspouts are working correctly.

If you do experience any water in your basement, call us today, we can come inspect it for you. 

(708) 532-3377

Sewage Damage Cleanup in Palos Heights, IL

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO crew will assess the category of water as clean water, gray water or black water and make preparations to properly clean it up.

When on-site, the crew will inspect the scope of the sewage damage, including the interior and exterior.  If necessary, they will remove all furniture and possessions, this includes carpeting.  All the items that can be saved should be removed and properly cleaned.  They will also take care to make sure there is no cross-contamination to prevent the spread of sewage damage.

After all the contaminated areas have been removed, the remaining area will be thoroughly cleaned with specialized industrial cleaners.

The areas will then be dried using high velocity fans and dehumidifiers. 

 We offer professional sewage cleanup services and will work with you and your insurance company. For more information visit www.SERVPROORLANDPARK.com or call us now 708-532-3377.

Being Prepared For A Storm In Orland Park

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

Unexpected emergencies like severe weather call for immediate action.  Here are a few tips to help you be better prepared when a storm rolls into town.

• Build an emergency supply kit and make a family communication plan.
• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
• Postpone outdoor activities.
• Remember the 30/30 Lightning Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder.  Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
• Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside. 
• Remember , rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning.  However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors.  If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
• Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives. 

If you have storm damage to your home or property, call us today (708)532-3377. Timely mitigation is key to minimize secondary damages caused by storms. 

When Damage Threatens The Hospitality Industry

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Orland Park, we understand that keeping your guests satisfied is your top priority, and you can rest assured that you are ours.  When disaster strikes at a hospitality facility, the help of a specialized team is critical in assuring that normal operations resume as quickly and safely as possible.  Whether the cause is a coat hanger on a sprinkler head or a natural disaster, we work to efficiently isolate the damaged area so that basic functions can continue normally, and guests can enjoy your services with minimal impact.  Our professionals are trained to work with your management and maintenance teams to prioritize spaces and make sure that all areas are restored to your complete satisfaction. 

Our experience in the hospitality industry has given us the ability to provide a variety of detailed services for the following hospitality facilities: 

• Hotels
• Convention Centers
• Casinos
• Resorts
• Entertainment Venues
• Banquet Halls

If you need assistance at your facility, call SERVPRO of Orland Park today! (708)532-3377

Flood Damage In Your Palos Heights Home

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orland Park can help you clean up your flooded home.

Heavy Rainfall And Flood Damage

Spring has sprung! With spring comes day after day of rain in the Chicago land area.  Just minutes after a heavy rainfall, flash floods can come rushing through your neighborhood and into your home.  These kinds of floods can be very dangerous, not just because of the volume and speed of the water, but due to the fact that the water may contain sewage and other debris.  These floods can be fast rising and invade your home quickly.

Flood damage in your Palos Heights home can be overwhelming and devastating.  SERVPRO is standing by to help you with the professional training and equipment that is needed to do the job right. 

In a flood situation, we are not finished once the water is out and your home is dry again, the structure must also be cleaned.  Things like the sub flooring and walls could also need cleaning.  We clean any materials which are restorable with the appropriate methods. 

For carpeting, SERVPRO staff clean and deodorize these areas. We choose a cleaning method that is right for the level of soiling. Six different carpet cleaning methods are utilized depending on the condition of the carpet.

Most of the time, we have a list of items which need to be cleaned. All contents exposed to water or high humidity have to be evaluated for cleaning needs. Some wood furniture might need cleaning and polishing from exposure to high humidity. We check all clothing, closets, and storage areas for contents needing cleaning and deodorizing. We also look for damage from high humidity and condensation on photographs and wall hangings. Your electronics may need special drying and cleaning services to restore them. Pool tables, pianos, clocks, and other items which are sensitive could also require specialized attention.

After restoration is complete, we finalize the job by ensuring you are satisfied. We check moisture levels one last time to ensure everything is dry and complete a walk-through with you. If there are any problems, we fix them and then remove all our equipment and supplies. Maintain relationships and communicating throughout the entire process is a huge factor in how smoothly the job is completed and how happy you are.

SERVPRO of Orland Park prides ourselves on how we take care of our customers and their Palos Heights homes.  

If your home has been affected by heavy rains or flooding call us today (708) 532-3377

SERVPRO Recognizes National Preparedness Month

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

"Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can."

Reminder to Home and Business Owners:

“Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.”

Orland Park, IL (Grassroots Newswire) August 23, 2017 - September is National Preparedness Month (http://www.ready.gov/September), an annual event sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to raise awareness about the importance of preparing—in advance—for the unexpected. In support of this initiative, Chuck Williams, owner of SERVPRO^® of Orland Park, encourages Orland Park property owners to take the following two steps now to protect their family, home, and business in the aftermath of a disaster.

1. Review and update your emergency preparedness plan, including business and life continuity plans. If you don’t yet have a plan, use the tools provided by FEMA to get started. (https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan)
2. Collect and store time-critical information, like the location of shutoff valves, fire suppression system controls, and emergency contact numbers electronically, where it is immediately available to assist first responders.

“Evacuation plans and emergency supply kits help you survive a disaster, but a comprehensive emergency preparedness plan helps you recover from a disaster,” said Williams. “The most effective response to any emergency is a fast response. That’s why having critical system and contact information at your fingertips is so important. A quick and effective response helps minimize repairs and downtime, helping both businesses and families get back on track in less time, with less stress.”

 SERVPRO offers tools for both commercial and residential property owners to help them minimize damage and recover quickly from emergencies. The SERVPRO READY app stores essential contact and property information electronically where it can be accessed with a mobile device in seconds if disaster strikes. Both home and business owners can download the free app at https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp. Local business owners can take an additional preparedness step by designating SERVPRO of Orland Park as their disaster mitigation and restoration provider. SERVPRO professionals will conduct a no-cost assessment of the facility and assist the owner in completing a comprehensive Emergency READY Profile^® (ERP) and storing that profile in the READY app.

 “Rapid response from a disaster cleanup and restoration specialist can help the property owner evaluate options, start the insurance process, and take the right steps from the beginning to bring their property back to normal,” said Williams. “Even in the confusion and panic that often surround a disaster, a property owner or manager using the SERVPRO READY app can reach out for expert help right from the scene, using a cell phone.”

SERVPRO^® of Orland Park specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO^® of Orland Park, please contact us at (708) 532-3377 or Office@SERVPROorlandpark.com. For more information on SERVPRO^® and the SERVPRO^® Emergency READY Program, please visit www.ready.SERVPRO.com.

About SERVPRO^®

Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO^® Franchise System is a leader and provider of fire and water cleanup and restoration services and mold mitigation and remediation. SERVPRO’s professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises responds to property damage emergencies ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events. Providing coverage in the United States and Canada, the SERVPRO^® System has established relationships with major insurance companies and commercial clients, as well as individual homeowners.