How to spot hidden water damage and where you can expect to find it.
Building materials and water do not mix. Pipes behind the walls can leak over time causing damage without you knowing, effecting the wood studs, plywood sheathing, subflooring and insulation - feeding mold growth and rot. Flooring, walls, and ceilings could buckle and warp. When these materials absorb water it becomes dangerous when their structural integrity is compromised.
A few signs to watch out for:
Increased water bill
Damp window seals
Discoloration / Stains that grow
Bubbling or peeling on your ceiling or walls
Long lasting musty orders
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties is 24/7 and is able to find the moisture even if you can't see it with our moisture reader. We can detect if your home is need of repair or if it's as simple as us bringing in our equipment to dry the space out after locating the leak and fixing it.
It's very important to address any leak so your home remains a healthy and safe environment for you and your family, preventing hazardous conditions and mold.
Let SERVPRO help, Like it never even happened.
Things you do NOT want to Ignore after Water Damage
Water has impacted your home and the visible water was removed. Now what? Everything is alright...Right?
Not necessarily.
There are underlying issues at hand that you may have overlooked.
Health Issues >> Moisture can be lingering and it's likely that mold is developing. Pay attention to musty smells.
Structural Damage >> If the water damage was not dried out by professionals then your home is at risk of rotted frame work, support beams, and subflooring. There may still be hidden water that is pooling.
Electrical Problems >> Don't take any risks when it comes to electricity, it doesn't mix with water. Don't put yourself or your family in harms way of electrical shock or fire.
Call SERVPRO to make sure the water and moisture is pulled out of your home so you can relax, knowing that you're taken care of.
"Like it never even happened"
We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup & Restoration
You just woke up and found your basement completely flooded because your sump pump failed after your water heater busted. You haven't even had a chance to wake up and your day is already ruined!
Let SERVPRO take over! Let us take that worry and stress off your shoulders and let our quick responding, compassionate team clean it up and restore your home, "Like it never even happened".
We are equipped and knowledgeable, knowing what to do right away. We will remove the water that day and pull the moisture out of the air and materials to make sure mold and structural damage does not occur.
Contact SERVPRO at 502-904-0710 for all your restoration needs
Our equipment drying the space after the water was removed from the flooded basement.
The typical timeline for a water job is around 3-5 days for a SERVPRO restoration specialists to take care of water damage.
DAY ONE: Is all about stabilizing the damage. This means we set out the Air movers and extract the standing water.
DAY TWO: We have most likely been in touch with the insurance adjuster and have a better idea as to what we are allowed to do. When given the approval, we begin tearing out the damage.
DAY THREE-FIVE: we are focused on drying and monitoring the job.
Once the job has been completed the last step is for our SERVPRO specialists to come by and pick up the equipment.
If you experience water damage please call us at 502-904-0710.
What happens NEXT?
Mitigation has been complete; the water is gone, the floors are dry, and some of the wall had to be cut out to prevent mold. Now what?
Now our restoration team comes over to rebuild. Time on this portion is dependent on the materials that are needed and the Project Manager will let you know everything that needs to be done and the process it will take.
Gray water flooding a basement when a sump pump failed.
Clean water, Gray water, and Black Water, Lets talk about them.
Clean Water doesn’t typically have microbes or bacteria and is usually sanitary or from a natural source. This type of water tends to come from a broken appliance, faulty sprinklers, a burst pipe, rainwater, or melting snow.
Gray Water has biological or chemical hazards in it (think urine, laundry detergents, blood, etc.). If it has the potential to cause sickness or irritation, it’s not clean! Be sure to protect your skin, eyes, and mouth from direct contact (wear gloves at least; goggles and a face mask are a plus!). Keep small children and pets away from this type of water damage.
Black Water usually comes from a natural disaster or raw sewage and contains chemicals, pathogens, pesticides, or other harmful biological bacteria. It is not necessarily black in its coloring (the same goes for gray water). For example, flooding fresh or ocean water is considered black because it has so many unknown contents. Do not attempt to clean up this type yourself. Instead, please call a professional for your safety.
SERVPRO is 24/7 and we are able to take the stress and worry off your shoulders when water damage strikes. SERVPRO of Bullitt County and N. Nelson County will remove the water and repair your space to make it "Like it never even happened".
Gray water can cause a lot more damage than clean water, requiring more cleanup and possible temporary evacuation during water damage remediation. In just another 48 hours or so, gray water can devolve into black water – posing serious health risks to you and your family and increasing the damage to your home.
If mold is an issue in your home or business, you should clean up the mold promptly and resolve the water problem.
It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on. You can prevent damage to your home and furnishings, save money, and avoid potential health problems by controlling moisture and eliminating mold growth.
Tips and techniques
Please note that mold may cause staining and cosmetic damage. It may not be possible to clean an item so that its original appearance is restored. SERVPRO is your professional remediator who is equipped to clean up the expanding mold problem that invades your home.
Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible. Dry all items completely.
Scrub mold off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.
Absorbent or porous materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, may have to be thrown away if they become moldy. Mold can grow on or fill in the empty spaces and crevices of porous materials, so the mold may be difficult or impossible to remove completely.
Avoid exposing yourself or others to mold.
Do not paint or caulk moldy surfaces. Clean up the mold and dry the surfaces before painting. Paint applied over moldy surfaces is likely to peel.
If you are unsure about how to clean an item, or if the item is expensive or of sentimental value, you may wish to consult a specialist. Specialists in furniture repair, restoration, painting, art restoration and conservation, carpet and rug cleaning, water damage, and fire or water restoration are at your fingertips. SERVPRO will clean and restore your home like the mold never happened.
Read more about mold in your home and the dangers at EPA.gov
According to the U.S Fire Administration there are approximately 24,000 electrical fires per year.
83% of electrical fires most often happen in One- and Two- family homes.
12% of these fires occur in January due to the increase of heating appliances and lights.
15% of residential fires happen in the bedroom.
13% of residential fires happen in attics or vacant crawl spaces
COMMON CAUSES OF ELECTRICAL FIRES:
Faulty outlets and appliances. Never use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord, which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.
Light fixtures. Always check the maximum recommended bulb wattage on any lighting fixture or lamp and never go over the recommended amount.
Extension cords. Only use extension cords as a temporary measure, NEVER plug an appliance into an extension cord. If you do not have the appropriate type of outlets for your appliances, hire an electrician to install new ones.
Space heaters. These types of heaters are portable, many times people put them too close to combustible surfaces such as curtains, beds, clothing, chairs, couches and rugs.
Wiring. If a home is over 35 years old, it may not have the wiring capacity to handle the increased amounts of electrical appliances in today’s average home, such as computers, wide-screen televisions, video and gaming players, microwaves and air conditioners.
NEVER use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord, which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.
Fires in a home most commonly happen in the kitchen. While frightening, an oven fire can usually be contained and prevented.
What to do
LEAVE THE OVEN DOOR CLOSED! You do NOT want to feed it any oxygen.
TURN OFF THE OVEN and allow the fire to burn out on its own. Move all appliances away from the oven.
If it does not go out on its own, leave the house and call 911.
If the fire does go out, carefully open the oven door (it will be smoky) and Open all the windows.
Quick Safety Tip:
Don’t store things on top of, in, or around your oven.
Keep flammable things like dish towels, paper bags, or cereal boxes, away from your stove. Don’t use your oven as ‘extra storage’ for flammable things like paper or plastic bags, plastic containers, or dish towels. Even if you don’t turn the oven on, the pilot light can ignite objects inside.
Be mindful of how you prep and cook your food.
Over-filling a baking pan with batter may overflow into the bottom of the oven and catch fire. Use an oversized pan under your baking dish to catch the overflow.
When cooking fatty foods like goose, duck, steak, and bacon, the grease will splatter and spark a fire. Do not leave your food unattended. Drain the grease periodically to prevent a fire.
If you're ever faced with a kitchen damaged by any type of fire and you’re in the Bullitt county or northern Nelson county area, we’re here for you. When you need expert help with fire damage, you can depend on SERVPRO. Our teams are standing by 24/7 with industry-certified fire and smoke cleanup services.
Smoke alarms are a key part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. Working smoke alarms give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.
A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement. Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound.
Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
It is best to use interconnected smoke alarms. When one smoke alarm sounds they all sound.
Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the stove.
People who are hard-of-hearing or deaf can use special alarms. These alarms have strobe lights and bed shakers.
Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
Smoke alarms are an important part of a home fire escape plan.
Do not use flour, baking powder, or other cooking powders that resemble baking soda - they have a different chemical makeup and will not react similarly. They will make the fire worse.
IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE GREASE FIRE:
GET OUT!
Close the door as you leave to help contain the fire.
Call 911 as soon as you are at a safe distance from the fire.
Do not re-enter your home until the fire has been contained by firefighters.
Your home and belongings are replaceable, YOU ARE NOT.
SERVPRO - We are here for you 24/7. We will clean it up and repair your home.
This home had a kitchen fire which led to smoke damage throughout the home.
According to National Fire Protection Association the most common fire dangers are cooking equipment, heating equipment, dryers, electrical and lighting equipment, smoking materials, and arson. What do you do after the fire trucks have left? How do you get back to normalcy?
Talk to your insurance agent before anyone else. They are experienced with property emergencies and recommend qualified remediation and restoration companies. SERVPRO is here for you.
Secure the property and prevent further damage. SERVPRO will do this for you.
Collect damage information. SERVPRO will collect photos of the damage for your insurance agent.
To facilitate repairs and rebuilding, you’ll want to move unaffected furniture, equipment and possessions out of the way. SERVPRO will do this for you. Even though they may not be fire damaged or scorched, it’s likely that most items will have some degree of soot or smoke contamination or water damage. On average, Firefighters use nearly 3,000 gallons of water on a house fire. Nothing should be packed away without proper cleaning to eliminate odor and other contaminants. This type of cleaning often needs professional attention, especially when leather, upholstery, rugs and electrical equipment is involved. Be certain to check before discarding items of any real or sentimental value, because today’s contents cleaning technologies can undo even significant smoke, soot and water damage.
2 air movers strategically placed for optimal drying
SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties doesn't just come into your home or business and extract water and leave. There is much more to water remediation.
When you have a water loss the first thing you will want to do is call SERVPRO®. Our experience call specialists will ask you several questions to help us understand how to deal with your unique situation. Next we will get you scheduled right away for one of our technicians to come out and assess the situation and create a remediation plan.
When we have established your specific restoration/mitigation plan our crew will come out and begin the water extraction process, sometimes removing hundreds or thousands of gallons of water. Next we will focus in on water damaged materials, such as flooring, carpeting, drywall, baseboards, etc.
If you have water damaged materials that can we restored we will then begin the process of sanitizing, deodorizing, and cleaning them in order to restore them to their original state.
Once all of these things are done it is time to begin the dry out process. This will target water within materials to bring these materials back to their normal moisture level. This equipment is normally placed during the first visit to your property. The type and amount of equipment is based on your unique situation and industry standards. We will do daily monitoring of the dry out equipment and make changes as needed in order to achieve maximum drying.
After these initial steps, your home may need construction work to get your property back to its preloss condition. If you need repairs we will send our construction crew to begin the work. Once we have completed the entire process you will feel "Like it never even happened!"®
When one of our local residential healthcare centers had a malfunction with their sprinkler system, which caused a huge water mess, we were first on the scene. We had our guys there in no time after they called up. Our crew was there and ready to begin the process of extracting the water and beginning clean up.
At SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties, our goal is to help everyone no matter the situation, especially when it is one of our local residential healthcare facilities. Community is the most important part of our business that is why we strive to create a friendly and helpful atmosphere where we go.
The local healthcare facility was so appreciative of the fact that our crew was there and ready to go to work in a matter of minutes after they called us. SERVPRO® of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties is "Faster to any size disaster!"
When the tornadoes and high winds hit parts of Kentucky on April 13, 2022, there was extensive damage to homes and business. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties was first on the scene to help when a homeowner had part of their roof ripped off of their home.
We had our crew out immediately to get the roof tarped and begin the damage assessment. The homeowner was visibly shaken up and had a lot of questions regarding the process. We sat with her and walked her through all of the steps of mitigation and repairs. By the time we left she was assured that we were doing everything we could to help her.
When storms like this hit, damage is abundant and it can be scary and confusing. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties will be there for you to help calm your fears and worries. SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties will leave you feeling "Like it never even happened."
On April 13, 2022 an EF1 tornado hit several different areas of Jefferson & Bullitt Counties in Kentucky. A lot of homes sustained wind, rain, & hail damage and SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties was there to help with the clean-up and repairs. Thankfully there were no serious injuries reported and that is probably due in part to our local weather men & women alerting us to take cover. What if you don't have any power though & you have no way to know when to take cover? Below are six signs to look out for when possible tornadoes are approaching.
The color of the sky may change to a dark greenish color.
A strange quiet occurring within or shortly after a thunderstorm.
A loud roar that sounds similar to a freight train.
An approaching cloud of debris, especially at ground level.
You can see debris falling from the sky.
A rotating funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm.
If you notice any of these signs it is time to take cover in an interior room, preferably a room without windows, and shelter in place until the tornado has passed.
At SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties, our main goal is for our community to stay safe, however if your home does sustain damage of any kind we are here to offer a helping hand.
The team of SERVPRO of Bullitt and North Nelson Counties
SERVPRO has been in business for over 50 years and there are currently over 1,700 franchises.
Our professionals are trained in 5 areas of IICRC certifications:
Water Damage Restoration Technicians
Carpet Cleaning Technicians
Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians
Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technicians
Applied Structural Drying Technicians
The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. They approved SERVPRO to be a teaching school for these certifications in 1997.
With these certifications, our technicians have learned every aspect of cleaning and restoring your home or business after a damaging fire, water loss or mold growth situation, and more. A SERVPRO technician can walk you through the entire process step-by-step.
With SERVPRO you know you are getting quality service. Our experts will help you contact your insurance company to get a claim started, we will make sure that all of your belongings are properly cleaned and cared for, and our professionals will generate a comprehensive room-by-room inventory of all of your contents; categorizing them by salvageable, non-salvageable, and questionable.
We know that emergencies don't always happen during business hours and that's why we are available 24 hours a day 365 days a year. When you call SERVPRO you can rest well knowing that we have the experience, training, & equipment to get the job done. "Like it never even happened."®
This family had a sewage backup in the middle of the night and we were there within the hour to get the cleanup process started.
At SERVPRO® of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties we know that when the unexpected happens you need someone you can trust to help you. Our most important goal is to guide you and be there for you during each step of the cleanup and repairs process.
Our trusted and experienced field technicians will be there to assess the damage and direct you in the type of cleanup and repairs you will need.
Once you decide which route is best for you, our skilled field crew will arrive at your home with all the proper and necessary tools and equipment to begin the mitigation process. During this process they will work to get all of the cause of your loss cleaned up, whether it be due to water, fire, mold, or even trauma; our crew has the training to take care of it all.
And lastly, our very knowledgeable office staff will guide and help you in the process of filing an insurance claim. Once your claim has started they will provide the insurance adjuster with all of the documentation they will need to get your claim approved.
SERVPRO has the experience and skills you can trust. We take calls 24 hours a day 7 days week, so if you have an emergency arise at 4am on a Wednesday you know you can count on us to be there! We are always "Here to Help!"
What a Spring Storm Can Do to Your Home or Business
Flooded basement due to intense storms & heavy rains
A Spring storm can wreak havoc on your home or business. You could experience heavy rain, damaging winds, tornadoes, hailstorms, flooding, and more. Many home and business owners find they have encountered damage that causes expensive repairs, such as broken windows, damaged roofs, flooding basements, and more.
If your home or business sustains damage after a storm you may have to call in a professional, such as SERVPRO®, to help with the mitigation process. Mitigation reduces the risk of damage to property from future events, and while it may mean that you initially have to invest a larger sum, mitigation does pay off in the long run. According to FEMA estimates on average, for every $1 spent on mitigation, $6 are saved from future losses.
SERVPRO® has experienced and trained technicians that will guide you through the entire process from beginning to the end. A natural disaster, such as a severe Spring storm, doesn't have to cause you confusion and stress. SERVPRO® is just a call away and we are always here to help!
A before and after dollhouse view of an apartment that caught fire and had significant damage
We know that needing restoration services can be a stressful experience and that is why we have created our system to help remove your fears. With our quick response to your emergency you will know that you have control over the situation and can reax knowing our professionals are taking care of everything.
Once our highly trained professional arrive on the scene they will immediately begin taking inventory of the damage to create a plan of action. After we have done this we will provide you with a detailed estimate so there are no surprises. We will also inventory all of your belongings and contents of your home. Your contents will be categorized as salvageable, non-salvageable, and questionable, this allows us to help you get an easier contents settlement from the insurance.
All restorable contents will be cleaned by professionals, including the structure of your home such as walls, cabinets, floors, rugs, electronics, etc.
Our restoration technicians will get right to work setting up the proper equipment to get your job done in a timely manner. We may need to use extraction equipment, dehumidifiers, air movers, deodorizing equipment, etc.
All of these steps allow us to help you get back into your home quicker and regain complete control of you life while also helping the insurance company get your claim processed and closed in a timely manner. When the job is completely finished you will feel "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO® ERP can help your business beat the odds!
An emergency can occur in an instant and if you and your business are not prepared it could cost you big. At SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties we can help you with a plan that is right for your business and employees. With our Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) you can feel secure in the fact that you will be "Ready for whatever happens."
Below we will list 7 benefits of having an Emergency Ready Plan:
We will do a no-cost assessment of your facility.
We will provide you with a Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed should disaster strike your business.
We will develop a plan of action to minimize the amount of time you are out of your building following an emergency.
SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties will be your designated provider helping you to mitigate and restore your facility.
Our plan will identify the Chain of Command for your business, giving a chosen representative the authority to delegate when work can begin.
With a ERP you and your employees will know shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
Lastly, our team will help you navigate through the process of an insurance claim from the beginning to the end.
With a SERVPRO® ERP you can rest assured knowing that we will be by your side every step of the way should you ever have an emergency or disaster within your business.
A sewage back up caused this homeowners toilet to overflow, the water then spread onto the carpet which now has to be removed.
SERVPRO® not only has the experience to quickly and safely clean contaminants, like sewage, we also have the training and the proper equipment to get the job done right the first time.
Something that seems like a simple toilet overflow could cause a major issue especially if it's caused by a sewage backup. Water from your toilet contains a lot of bacteria which needs to be cleaned with a professional strength antibacterial cleaner. If the water that flows from your toilet also gets under your flooring you could be in for some serious problems. SERVPRO®is able to manipulate the temperature and relative humidity to remove the remaining moisture. With our specialized equipment, including industrial air movers and dehumidifiers, we will remove water retained by building materials and other hard-to-access moisture. We will carefully monitor the drying progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals.
Water that is contaminated with sewage is considered an emergency and needs to be taken care of immediately. Once we receive your call our team will be there with protective gear and the proper equipment to help put you at ease and begin the cleanup process.
Our experienced technicians place air movers in a prime location for optimal drying time.
SERVPRO® has been helping homes and businesses recover from all types of disasters for over 5 decades. Founded in 1967, as a painting business, Ted and Doris Isaacson saw the need for cleanup and restoration specialists. That is when SERVPRO® was born, now having over 1,700 franchises such as SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties, we are regarded as a leading specialist of restoration services.
In situations, such as flooding & fires, where every minute counts, SERVPRO® technicians will arrive quickly to help you in your time of need. Our highly trained and experienced professionals get right to work setting up the proper equipment to begin the cleanup process. While our technicians begin the cleanup, you will be guided step-by-step through what to expect during the process by one of our project managers.
Our project managers are trained to address all of your questions and concerns. They will provide a detailed estimate; relieving any stress or worries of unwelcomed surprises or expenses. SERVPRO® is dedicated to leaving you feeling "Like it never even happened."®
Our crew working to clean up a large water loss at a local factory
SERVPRO® offers a wide range of services for our commercial customers, such as cleaning, construction and restoration projects, both large and small. If your commercial property is unexpectedly impacted by any type of damage due to a storm, flood, fire or another type of disaster, it can leave you, your employees and customers feeling alarmed.
No worries, SERVPRO® is here to help 24/7. As soon as we receive your call we will assign a project manager who will oversee your case from beginning to end. SERVPRO® headquarters has an operations team that will be in the background ensuring that the mitigation and restoration process is straightforward and effortless on your part.
Whether you have a large loss, need a general cleaning, a specialty cleaning, or you need to get an Emergency Ready Plan in place, you can count on SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to be there for you and your business.
This photo shows the almost knee deep water in our clients living room, before we began the extraction process.
When you are struck with an unexpected emergency such as water, fire, or natural disaster you want a company that will be there quick to help you with every step of the clean-up process. Here at SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson county you can count us to be there as soon as we receive your call.
Our client had a sewage back-up due to roots growing into the pipes of their septic system. After a day of heavy rains & severe flash flooding the sewage began to back-up into their home in an exceptionally high amount and SERVPRO® was there in less than an hour to begin the process of extracting the water and sewage. We then helped them with the process of contacting the local MSD to file a claim and get the septic system issue resolved to prevent any future sewage back-ups.
Our client had a huge loss and it was our goal with our quick response to help minimize the stress they were feeling. SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties goes above and beyond to make sure that when you need us we are there, "Faster to Any Size Disaster."
Linoleum floor that has mold growing through it due to a leak around the toilet.
Mold in the Bathroom
It's no surprise that bathrooms are the most moist and humid room in the house, because of this bathrooms are an environment that allow mold to thrive. When the surfaces in a bathroom are not cleaned or dried regularly, mildew begins to form. If it isn’t removed, it can develop into mold.
Signs of Mold Growth
Below are a few signs you might notice if you have mold growing in your bathroom.
The most obvious one—visible mold. Mold usually begins growing underneath surfaces. By the time you can see it, you probably have a severe problem.
You might notice a musty, earthy smell, in some cases, you may be able to smell mold and mildew before you can see it
If you see ants in your bathroom, this may be a sign mold is growing beneath your floor tiles and decomposing your floorboards.
Common causes of Mold
Excess moisture caused by lack of ventilation.
Leaky pipes, sinks, or toilets.
Materials such as rugs, paper products, wood, wallpaper, grout, drywall, and fabric which hold moisture.
How to Prevent Mold Growth
Use your bathroom fan when you shower or bathe, and leave it on for 30 minutes after you are done.
Household humidity levels need to stay below 50%; an air conditioner or dehumidifier can help.
Use a mildew-resistant shower curtain, and wash or replace it frequently.
Wash your bathroom rugs frequently.
How to Treat Mold
Remove & replace any caulking or sealant that has mold growing on it.
Clean your bathroom with mold-killing products, which can be bought at your local hardware store.
Keep windows and doors open while cleaning to provide fresh air and help dry out the mold.
If you have notice you have a problem area 10 square feet or larger, or you see mold creeping into walls, insulation or under linoleum, you need a professional. These are signs of a much larger infestation and walls may need to be tore out. Tearing out walls can cause mold spores to be released into the rest of the house and ventilation system creating an even bigger problem.
If you have any concerns about mold growth any where in your home give us a call at SERVPRO® of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties. One of our trained and skilled remediation technicians will come out and help you through then entire process. We are "Always here to help."®
A tree fell on this house due to high winds during a severe storm
Spring is upon us and with Spring comes possible severe weather. Spring weather in Kentucky is very unpredictable, that is why it's always best to be prepared for anything. It never fails that Kentucky will be hit by some variation of severe Spring weather. So how can we be prepared for what Mother Nature might throw our way? Check out the helpful tips below to help you and your loved ones stay safe and be ready for anything.
Have a plan. Make sure you and your loved ones are on the same page and you all know how to contact one another and where to meet up should there be severe weather.
Prepare an emergency kit; make sure it has a 3 day supply of water, non perishable food, medications, personal hygiene products, batteries, a flashlight, a weather radio, a first-aid kit, and portable cell phone chargers.
Make sure all of your important documents & keepsakes are stored in waterproof, sealable bags.
If possible try to have a generator on hand, as severe storms have the possibility of knocking out power for days or weeks.
These tips will help keep you safe, however if your home should sustain damage due to severe weather make sure to contact your insurance provider to see if the damage is covered.
If you have flooding, fire, smoke, or hail damage due to severe weather remember, SERVPRO® is "Faster to Any Size Disaster."
Mold vs Mildew: The right side of the photo shows Mildew as a brown color; where as the Mold on the left side is much darker almost black.
Mildew and mold are fungi that come about as a result of unchecked moisture. Both types of fungi grow in a wide range of temperatures, some especially thrive at higher temperatures. Either of these types of fungi can cause damage in your home or business, as well as cause health concerns.
While mildew is considered to be "early-stage mold" that causes less damage to your home and your health, it should still be taken seriously. It’s important to remove mildew as quickly as possible in order to prevent adverse health effects and/or cosmetic damage to your home.
Mold on the other hand can cause minor to severe health issues. Things like the species, length of exposure, and whether or not a person has any pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or allergies determine the type of health issues mold can cause. If you are smelling an earthy, musty smell in your home or experiencing cold or flu like symptoms for an extended amount of time, mold may be the culprit, it’s important to get in touch with your doctor and contact a qualified mold remediation specialist; like SERVPRO.®
Office area hallway after being cleaned, the floors are shining and everything looks fresh.
Our certified technicians here at SERVPRO® are always ready to help your business or commercial property, carefully and professionally, handle specialty cleaning projects such as duct cleaning, odor removal, graffiti removal, biohazard cleaning services, and more.
We know you work hard to keep your business running smoothly and you can count on SERVPRO® of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties to help you deal with these situations without the worry of disrupting your day to day operations.
Our technicians have the skills and experience to take care of any type of cleaning, from routine to biohazard and trauma. In the event of an emergency we are available 24/7, so you know you can trust our professionals to respond quickly to prevent any further damage or downtime to your business, leaving you feeling "Like it never even happened"®.
This shows the before and after of a mold remediation job.
Mold spores can be found everywhere. Many molds are harmless, but the problem arises when the spores start growing in moist areas of your home.
Mold can grow in as fast as 24-48 hours after a water damage event. Water damage remediation is critical to preventing mold growth after a water damage event.
Mold thrives in moisture-prone areas, such as the bathroom or basement, but also in hidden areas behind walls or in crawlspaces and around leaks in roofs, windows, or pipes, or where there has been flooding.
You should never paint over a mold-infested surface. Mold is able to eat through paint and reappear on the wall. Before applying a new coat of paint, you need to completely remove the mold and then use a mold-resistant type of paint.
Many people believe bleach will get rid of mold in their home. The truth is that bleach kills live mold, but not mold spores. What’s more, removing mold with bleach and water can make mold regrow even faster.
Most homeowners insurance policies cover mold damage only in certain situations. If mold arises after accidents like fire or sudden water issues, then mold remediation is often covered. However, you may not have coverage if the source of moisture that caused mold was due to neglected maintenance of the property.
Its always a good idea to call a professional if you suspect mold growth in your home. We have the proper skills, tools, and cleaning products to remediate the mold in your home.
If you believe you have found mold in your home or business give SERVPRO® of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties a call and one of our knowledgeable and experienced technicians will help walk you through the remediation process.
The hydroxyl generator uses UVA rays to clean and purify the air, it is 100% safe for use around people, plants, and animals.
Covid Cleaning for Local Offices
When several of our local offices called on us to help them with cleaning their space after an outbreak of Covid we were quick to offer our services.
Cleaning large commercial spaces requires the use of PPE, specialized SERVPRO cleaning products, and equipment.
Our team went in with their PPE on and sanitized all surfaces and community areas using SERVPROXIDE™ which is registered with the EPA, as a stabilized chlorine dioxide-based disinfectant and sanitizer. Chlorine dioxide can be used on food-contact surfaces at diluted concentrations. In some cases, the compound has demonstrated a rapid kill of bacteria much less than the 30-minute period typically used in disinfection studies. It is designed to kill harmful bacteria, viruses and mold on hard surfaces and can also effectively sanitize soft surfaces. The EPA has given it one of their lowest toxicity ratings, making it safe for everyday use.
Once we have cleaned and sanitized all surfaces we will then run our Hydroxyl Generator to sanitize and purify the air. The Hydroxyl Generator is proven to be 100% safe for use in occupied areas; therefore there is no need to remove people, plants or animals during operation.
In these uncertain times we want you to know that you can always count on SERVPRO, we’re Here to Help 24/7.®
Air movers and dehu strategically placed to get everything fully dried out.
11/01/2021
Flooded Basement in Bardstown, KY
When a flash flood hit Bardstown, KY on September 15,2021 SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties was there to put our customers at ease. We acted quickly by helping to get things packed up, cleaned up, and dried out. The amount of water left standing in the owners basement left her feeling anxious as she had many items stored in her basement and she was very concerned about being able to salvage everything.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties jumped right in to get the Air Movers and Dehumidifiers set up. As you can see in the attached photo, our crew strategically placed the air movers to achieve optimal drying of her floors, rugs, and other stored items. Thanks to our crew at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties for their quick response we were able to salvage the majority of this home owners belongings and leave her home, "Like it never even happened."®
This damaged and wet garage was caused by the 2021 Polar Vortex in Texas.
Polar Vortex
Take a look at this photo, you can see the amount of damage caused by a frozen pipe that burst during the Polar Vortex that took place in Texas in the winter of 2021.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties arrived on the scene and immediately began removing damaged materials and setting up equipment. Notice the placement of the equipment in the photo, our certified SERVPRO technicians have been trained in the science of drying out structures.
SERVPRO Standards
SERVPRO always strives to leave our customers homes "Like it never even happened." ® In this situation our highly trained technicians went above and beyond to ease the customer's worries. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties walked the customer step by step through the entire drying out process.
Most Business owners sometimes don't realize how dirty the floors can get in their place of business. Things like dirt and dust that customer's shoes track in affect the overall cleanliness of the floors. Business owners are focused on other factors to help their company running smoothly.
Commercial floor cleaning service such as SERVPRO of BULLITT & N. Nelson Counties can help avoid your floors from getting dirty. Not only does SERVPRO help avoid your business getting dusty floors we also sanitize the floors to help keep all the germs away. This is especially helpful to do during the cold and flu season. This can help reduce the number of sick days from your employees.
Cleaning your business floors often require more than just the simple everyday vacuuming, sweeping and mopping. SERVPRO has professional equipment and products that help keeps your commercial property floors cleaned and sanitized.
One of the first things a business client will notice is the appearance of your commercial property. Especially if your business has experienced an emergency such as a flood or fire. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties has the knowledge, staff and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened."
Here is a list of some our previous clients who have used our services throughout Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties.
1) CHURCHES
2) BANKS
3) SCHOOLS
4) GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS
5) RETAIL BUSINESS
Being available 24 hours a day, 365 days a week helps those businesses after they have experienced an emergency. This is the list of commercial services we offer.
Fall is the time for outdoor fire pits and family time making smores. Fire Pit safety starts with selecting the right site. Make sure the ground is level. Keep fires located at least 10-20 feet away from plants and your home.
Never operate your fire pit beneath a building overhang or a partially enclosed space. Use a lot of caution with overhanging trees which can easily ignite.
For wood burning fire pits cut logs so their length is less than three quarters the diameter of the pit. Never use lighter fluid or gasoline to start a fire pit. Position chairs so that people can move about their seats without tumbling into the fire. Keep an eye out on children whenever a fire pit is being used.
SERVPRO of BULLITT & N. Nelson counties is available 24/7 in the event of a house fire caused by a Fire pit.
The typical timeline for a water job is around 3-5 days for a SERVPRO restoration specialists to take experience a water damage care of water damage. The first day is all about stabilizing the damage. This means we set out the Air movers and extract the standing water.
The second day we have most likely been in touch with the insurance adjuster and have a better idea as to what we are allowed to do. We begin tearing out and fixing along with continuing drying out the area. day 3-5 are focused on drying and monitoring the job.
Once the job has been completed the last step is for our SERVPRO specialists to come by and pick up the equipment. If you experience water damage please call us at 502-904-0710.
Water Damage in your home can be sudden such as a pipe bursting or an appliance malfunctioning. Water damage can also go undetected for long periods of time such as a slow leak.
Areas that are vulnerable to slow water accumulation are the areas under sinks, around air conditioning units, appliances, cabinets and toilets. Water can also come through windows, under siding and doors. These areas prone to water damage can lead to mold, rot and damaged drywall and flooring.
If you believe your home may have a moisture problem contact the restoration professionals at SERVPRO of BULLITT & N. NELSON Counties. Our trained professionals will create a plan of action to make your property look "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 502-904-0710.
There are some safety tips to keep your family safe and minimize the damage to your property after a fire.
1) Try to limit the amount of movement in your home to prevent soot from damaging upholstery and carpets.
2) Keep your hands clean so you do not soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
3) Take clean towels or sheets and put on upholstery and rugs.
4) Empty the freezer and refrigerator if the electricity is off and then prop open the door.
5) We recommend you change the HVAC filter.
6) Tape off Air registers.
7) Clean chrome with petroleum oil.
8) Wash off houseplants on both sides of the leaves.
Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties and a restoration specialist will be on site quickly to asses the damage and create a plan to get your home back to looking "Like it never even happened."
Things NOT TO Ignore after Water Damage impacts your home.
Whenever you experience water damage in your home due to a storm or a busted pipe please DO NOT panic. There are things that can help you deal with the stressful situation.
Please DO NOT allow the water to sit. If water is left alone the damage will cause the floors to warp. Mold growth may also develop. Placing tarps on windows and blocking off other areas can be a way to keep water from spreading.
We recommend calling your insurance agent right away and not waiting too long to report the flooding. That way they can get the process started as quickly as possible.
Finally it is a good idea to not attempt to make repairs without using a water damage remediation service. These professionals can remediate your home to prevent future damage and help save your belongings.
We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup & Restoration
Basement Flooding can happen at anytime but most flooding occurs during a very heavy rainfall. basements are commonly flooded because they are built below ground level and are the lowest level of a home.
There are six common reasons why your basement could experience flooding.
1) Heavy rain causes water to gather around your home.
2) Storm sewer backup might occur.
3) Hot water tank may fail or water supply line may break.
4) Sewer lateral pipe may be blocked or fail.
5) Sanitary sewer back up.
6) The foundation drainage could fail.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties has trained professional crews available 24 hours a day 7 days a week to handle any flooded basement situations. We are also a Preferred vendor to many National Insurance Companies.
Problems that can cause a Toilet to leak in your home
There are several things that can go wrong with your toilet to cause it to leak water onto your bathroom floor. Plumbers tend to look at four main issues that cause the toilet to leak.
1) Bolts that have become loose.
If you see water at the base of the toilet the first thing you will need to look at is to see if the bolts around the toilet are lose. try tightening these bolts before calling a plumber.
2) A valve is Broken.
Another problem that can happen to cause a leaking toilet is a shut off valve that is broken. Plumbers can replace a bad valve so that a water damage specialist does not need to replace the walls and flooring when a faulty valve releases to much water.
3) A Faulty Gasket.
The gasket is the seal that holds the toilet in place and also keeps water from leaking onto the floor. A plumber can help replace a broken or dry gasket.
4) Toilet Bowl is Cracked.
Lastly if the toilet bowl is cracked there is a good chance that water will leak out. It can be hard to determine the source if you can't see the crack.
If your toilet experiences a leak where large amounts of water damage the floors and walls please call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties.
There are many misconceptions when it comes to mold. Just mentioning mold causes homeowners to panic so it is important to have the correct facts.
One common misconception about mold is that Bleach will kill mold. most household bleach products only discolor the mold and are not recommended for drywall, wood, carpet, and ceiling tiles.
Another common myth about mold is that a small amount is nothing to worry about. While it is true there is always some mold everywhere chances are it has been growing for sometime and will require a mold professional to determine the situation.
An additional common myth is that mold is only found in homes that have experienced water damage. It is true that mold usually forms in places that have problems with flooding but all homes can potentially have a mold problem.
Finally the myth that mold remediation is easy to do on your own is not always the case. Sometimes it can be handled easily if the mold affects a vert small area. But it is best to call the professionals to make sure the mold issue has been resolved.
If you think there might be mold in your home give SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties a call at 502-904-0710.
Smoke alarm maintenance is extremely important. Make sure and keep your alarm free of dust and keep them clean. You will want to change the batteries at least once a year. Testing the unit is also extremely important. You can do this by pressing the button and listening for the loud alarm.
The second item to consider with your smoke alarm is its lifespan. Most alarms have a lifespan of eight to ten years. If you have a smoke detector that is operating longer than the manufacturer recommends it should be replaced. Check the manufacturer's instructions for how long your smoke alarm is recommended to last.
The final thing to consider with your smoke alarm is where to place the alarm. Many experts recommend having a smoke detector on every floor in your home. Another extremely important place to have a alarm would be to install one in each bedroom. In addition to placing one outside in the hallway.
If a grease fire should start in the kitchen there are several things you will need to do to keep your family safe. First step would be to cover the flames with a metal lid or a cookie sheet. You will need to leave the cover on until it has cooled. The second thing to do is to turn off the heat source. Thirdly, if the grease fire is relatively small you can pour BAKING SODA or SALT on the fire to extinguish it. As a very last resort you can spray the fire with a class B dry chemical fire extinguisher.
You NEVER want to use water to extinguish a grease fire. Also do not move the pot or pan outside, this can be extremely dangerous.
If a grease fire occurs in your kitchen it is important that you do not use flour, baking powder or other items that may look like baking soda or salt. They have a different chemical makeup and will not act the same as salt or baking soda and it will only make the fire worse.
How to handle water damage in your Shepherdsville home
Water damage can still be lurking even after you have cleared up the mess. It is extremely important to do an in-depth job of water damage repair to restore the area to its previous condition.
Before we even begin to start cleaning up, you need to make sure the source of the damage has been stopped. Make sure to shut off the water or in case of a flood make sure the flood waters have receded before the clean up begins.
The next thing to do is get the water out of your flooded home. Once all the water is removed you will need to dry out the space. Ventilate the room and bring in fans to help dry things out. Dehumidifiers need to be utilized to take out the remaining moisture.
Now onto water damage repairs. You will need to remove carpet and padding and drywall that was impacted by the water. If the moisture meter indicates water is still in the wood studs and flooring these items will need to be removed to prevent mold.
The space that experienced water damage needs to be completely free of any moisture before installing new floors and drywall.
SERVPRO's advanced drying methods and our extremely fast response time make us the experts in water damage restoration.
This past month Nelson County was hit by a bad spring hail storm. The Cox's creek area was hit especially hard with large hail throughout many neighborhoods. Even small size hail balls can cause damage to your roof. We at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson counties know how to inspect your roof for all types of hail damage.
Hail damage can be seen in many forms in regards to roofs. Depending on the size of the hail there might be Dents, Broken Shingles and Visible Dark Patches. Major hail damage can crack strong materials on the roof, dent siding and even damage gutters.
When you experience hail damage contact the Storm Damage experts at SERVPRO to inspect your roof. Our number is 502-904-0710.
SERVPRO sponsoring National Night Out in Mt. Washington
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties helped sponsor the "National Night Out" hosted by the Mount Washington Police Department. The National Night Out held in our local community promotes police-community partnerships.
National Night Out aims to make neighborhoods safer and more caring places. The event encourages police departments to provide the community an opportunity to engage with local law enforcement officials, developing better and more positive relationships.
At SERVPRO we work closely with several different organizations. The fire department, emergency transportation and the police departments are important to us since we deal with all types of emergency situations in the restoration industry.
We know how important the community is to our local SERVPRO and to be a part of this event is something we look forward to every year.
Experiencing a flood from a natural disaster to a burst pipe in Mt. Washington is extremely stressful because it is so unexpected. We know how devastating flood damage can be and our goal is to get you back in your home as soon as possible.
Flood damage is one of the most common experiences a homeowner has to deal with. From a faulty hose on a washing machine, a leaky roof, a dishwasher or toilet overflow, and a natural flood disaster need to be dealt with immediately before it does permanent damage.
FEMA ( The Federal Emergency Management Agency) recommends certain steps you should take after a flood event.
If it is safe check for any visible signs of structural damage. This could be a cracked foundation, warping or holes. Also turn off all electricity at the main circuit breaker. It is also very important to shut off all water.
If your home has experienced a flood event call us at 502-904-0710.
Why SERVPRO should be your 1st Choice in Restoration
SERVPRO has won many awards including Top 10 Franchises in Entrepreneur Magazine in 2020. This is the 8th time we have ranked in the Top 10. We take great pride in receiving such recognition in this business magazine.
SERVPRO knows how crucial it is in the restoration industry to have highly trained restoration technicians. What is unique about SERVPRO is we have both the resources of a large corporate company combined with a small locally owned company mentality. The SERVPRO franchise system is founded on solid core values. We provide superior service and concentrate on saving our client's money. A corporation that retains a locally owned family business values with the resources and training of a large corporation. We have the resources of a large company but also the customer relations of a small town business. We offer the best of both worlds. Call us at 502-904-0710 for all your Restoration needs.
Hydroxyl Generator is used to reduce the smell from a fire.
One of the biggest issues after a fire is the odor of burnt materials and soot. These odors spread in the home through the HVAC system and leave an extremely unpleasant smell.
Regular cleaning and disinfecting can remove some of the odors, however there are extra steps that might be necessary to eliminate them completely. Some additional ways to remove the odor is cleaning the vents with agitating tools and thermal fogging. This allows the deodorizing chemicals to penetrate the surfaces that were impacted by the fire. SERVPRO uses large axial box fans to exchange the air in the home. This keeps the air in your home clean and save while eliminating odors.
Professional quality equipment and a skilled workforce are why SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties delivers when a fire happens.
Storm season typically peaks in April across the Bluegrass state. There are steps to take to prepare for the potential damage to your home.
The first thing is to check on what is covered under your homeowner's insurance. Policies usually cover damage due to fire, ice, tornadoes and wind. But most policies do not cover flooding due to storms.
Immediately after the storm inspect the home and watch out doe downed power lines, broken glass and nails. If you do see damage after severe weather, contact your insurance company. Have your home looked at by a qualified restoration expert to determine what repairs will be needed.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson counties is there to clean and restore your home after storm damage. We are Faster To Any Size Disaster.
SERVPRO has over 1700 franchises and they are each locally owned and operated. Our locally owned companies are employed by people who live in the community.
Since there are so many locations across the United States there is always a SERVPRO available to help during a water or fire emergency. At SERVPRO we know how important it is to help out our community and even in times where other areas need our assistance. We have the knowledge, equipment, and trained technicians for all your restoration needs.
We love helping out our neighbors throughout the following areas in Kentucky:
Mount Washington
Shepherdsville
Hillview
Bardstown
Coxs Creek
Lebanon Junction
Call us at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties at 502-904-0710. "Like it never even happened."
Mary Beth is ready to respond to a flood in Bullitt County.
When you work in an Insurance Agency it can be extremely beneficial to have a preferred vendors list. This is important when a client calls and needs restoration work done on their home in Bullitt or N. Nelson county. Here are some reasons why having SERVPRO on your list is a great idea.
1) We are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration. (IICRC)
2)We follow strict guidelines at SERVPRO. There are several guidelines that must be followed for SERVPRO franchise to receive client referrals. We also perform routine background checks on all our employees.
3) SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day so we can get started on the restoration process as soon as you need us. We can also begin mitigation within hours of receiving the call.
4) SERVPRO uses CIC (Claims Information Center) to keep track of important information for your Insurance agency. The CIC gives you access to important information such as photos of damaged property and scanned documents.
These are all great reasons why adding SERVPRO to your preferred vendors list is so beneficial to your Insurance Agency
SERVPRO uses this Matterport camera to help our Insurance Partners
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties began using the Matterport camera in 2020 to capture a 3D walk-through video. It gives a "dollhouse: view of residential and commercial losses. This technology helps us in many ways in the restoration industry.
The Matterport provides documentation before and after the restoration process. It gives us floor plans and precise measurements that we can use in Xactimate to help give us pricing. On those large commercial and residential fire or flood losses, we send out our Project manager to Matterport the facility before the work has begun. This allows us to capture the damage before any work is started and is valuable to our Insurance partners. Insurance adjusters and agents can benefit from our Matterport because it allows them to view the damage even when they aren't available first hand to see it themselves. what a great service to provide to those in the insurance field.
Our Team at SERVPRO of BULLITT & N. NELSON Counties
We started off 2021 with extremely cold temperatures, an ice storm and lots of flooding in the state of Kentucky. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson has been there for businesses and homeowners through every storm.
Most people think of SERVPRO as a Fire & Water Restoration and Cleanup Company. However SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson is a full service restoration company. We take great pride on getting to any disaster and being able to handle the rebuild on every job. This means a client deals with one company throughout the whole process.
SERVPRO makes the process easy because we do it all from start to finish. Both our production team and construction division works as a team. This makes our clients very happy because we are a one stop shop. Dealing with one company that coordinates everything takes all the pressure and stress off the clients. SERVPRO is a TRUE FULL SERVICE Restoration Company.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is always available. No matter what time of day or night we are here 365 days of the year. Disasters happen and sometimes they occur outside of normal business hours. We have a live person available 24 hours a day to answer our phone lines and our technicians are also available to handle those emergencies.
At SERVPRO we also understand the importance of helping out other states when disasters occur. Just this past month our crews headed south to Dallas Texas. Due to the extreme cold temperatures we knew how important it was to help with the cleanup and restoration process for these families and businesses that were impacted by the storm. We take great pride in helping serve both our local community but also those in other states that need our help.
With the storms and rain showers in Kentucky there is potential for water damage to your home. Water can come into your home from leaky roofs, basement walls, windows and cracks in the foundation. Mold can quickly grow if you don't catch the water damage in time and allow water to sit. Mold tends to grow in areas like drywall around windows, carpeting, ceiling leaks, and bathroom grout. It can also be found around dishwashers, washing machines and bathroom tubs.
If you find water damage or mold damage call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties. We are water and mold damage restoration experts who are available 24/7 for any size emergency. Contact us today at 502-904-0710 if you see mold growing in your Bullitt or Nelson County home.
Storm restoration technicians need to tear out damaged materials and rebuild your home. This is what the restoration process looks like.
The first step the specialist will do is remove as much water as possible using an industrial pump.
The second step they will do is remove the damaged materials. They will tear out insulation, tiles, carpet and ruined drywall.
Thirdly they will dry out the remaining structure to bring the humidity level back to normal. this is when they will also disinfect the area to remove bacteria.
The final stage of the restoration process is the rebuilding involved in the home. This is where new flooring is installed and new walls are put up. they will paint and wallpaper to make the home look like there was never any damage.
Commercial building impacted by Storm in Bullitt County
If you are anticipating a storm in Bullitt or Nelson County this spring take these five measures to reduce the severity of storm damage in your commercial building.
1) Schedule a regular inspection to ensure that the envelope and roof are water tight. The envelope is to protect the structure and interior of the building.
2) Ensure that the roof drains and gutters are clear. This will eliminate water will not pool around the base of the building.
3) Trim Tree branches because they can be a serious threat to a building. Falling limbs can seriously damage the roof.
4) Secure outdoor items such as trash cans when adverse weather is expected.
5) Purchase a generator as a backup during power outages. It is also a good idea to have enough fuel to sustain heat in the building to prevent a pipe break.
If your business is effected by storm damage contact our commercial storm damage specialists at SERVPRO in Mt. Washington at 502-904-0710.
Commercial fires can lead to injured employees, damaged equipment and the possibility of the business closing.
Commercial buildings should be equipped with a sprinkler system. These systems are one important factor that improves fire safety in the workplace.
Here are some of the requirements by the National Fire Protection association for commercial sprinkler systems.
1) Any new building with a fire area of more than 5000 sq. ft. must have a sprinkler system
2) Buildings higher than 55 ft. must have a sprinkler system.
3) Water supply valves should be accessible for operation.
4) If possible fire pumps should be located in separate building.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson counties understands there is never a good time for a fire to effect a business. We know how important it is to get the business back to operations and we are always here to help in the event of a commercial fire.
Does Your Bullitt County home have a Mold problem?
If your home in Mt. Washington, Shepherdsville or Hillview has experienced water damage it can lead to developing a black mold problem. Mold can start growing in as little as 24 hours after water damage from a leak or flooding occurs.
While waiting for SERVPRO to arrive you can help prevent the spread of the mold by doing two things.
CUT OFF Water because mold loves excess moisture.
1) Turn off the water shutoff valve.
2) Dry the surface where the mold is mostly to spread.
3) Set up a dehumidifier in the unaffected parts of the home.
SHUT OFF the HVAC.
Shutting down air flow eliminates the travel of the mold spores that can cause new mold growth.
If you discover black mold in your home please call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson County at 502-904-0710.
STEPS To Clean a Washing Machine contaminated with Mold
You may need to consult a mold remediation specialist.
When mold ends up in your washing machine the smell can soak into your clothing and never come out. Before getting rid of your washing machine, try these steps to eliminate the mold issues.
1) Scrub the mold away thoroughly until you see clean metal throughout the machine. Afterwards run an empty wash cycle.
2) Run a cycle of Water and Baking Soda and then another cycle with Vinegar into the detergent tray. These everyday products kill the mold and eliminate the foul odor.
3) The final step is to Bleach everything. bleach can be the final resort to removing the mold issue in your washing machine.
If you have tried these techniques and your machine still has that strong musty odor you may need to contact a Mold remediation specialist at SERVPRO. We can recommend solutions and expert techniques to save your washing machine and get your clothes smelling fresh and clean.
SERVPRO provides Commercial board-up when fires occur
SERVPRO is here to help our clients when disaster strikes in Bullitt & N. Nelson County Commercial locations. We offer storm, water, mold repair and fire restoration for any business in the area.
STEPS to the Rebuilding Process
1) BOARD-UP and ROOF-TARP
Commercial restoration specialists board-up holes in windows, doors, and walls. We also put up tarps on broken or roof sections that are missing.
2) SMOKE, SOOT & WATER REMOVAL
The next step is for the technicians to remove hazardous residue such as smoke and soot. SERVPRO uses special equipment and methods to remove the hazardous material. If there is water damage caused by the sprinkler system, then the water is removed by using ventilation and dehumidifiers to dry the area.
3) CLEANING & SANITIZING
Fires and water damage leave behind bacteria that are harmful to customers and employees in commercial settings. Our technicians will clean and sanitize items and the damaged structures. We also use products such as industrial air scrubbers to remove strong smelling odors.
4) FINAL PHASE- BUILDING RESTORATION
The restoration or "Fire Rebuild" is when the professionals conduct full reconstruction of the commercial office. Minor repairs such as replacing carpets, painting and adding new dry wall are completed. The fire restoration process when conducted by SERVPRO can help your business get back to operating quickly and efficiently.
SERVPRO Provides Roof Tarping & Board Ups After Storms
Severe weather such as high winds and heavy rain storms can happen anytime in Central Kentucky. You never know what kind of weather can strike during the fall months. Falling tree limbs, high winds and hail damage can cause severe destruction to your roof. Safety is your first priority, do not try to evaluate the roof damage but stay on the ground.
This picture is an example of how our SERVPRO team tarped a roof in Nelson County after high winds rolled through Bardstown. When this occurs call the highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of BULLITT & N. Nelson Counties at 502-904-0710. We provide emergency Roof Tarp Installation and Board Up Services. This will help eliminate more damage caused by weather. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to secure your property and begin the process of making your home "Like it never even happened."
A Homeowner's policy usually covers standard weather patterns. Homeowners may also choose to invest in Hurricane or Flood insurance. There are certain disasters related to severe weather.
1) Sewage backup
2) Roof damage
3) Flooding
4) Mold Growth
You will need a specific policy for flood damage because a typical insurance plan will probably not cover flooding related to storms.
High winds can lead to structural concerns such as damaged rooflines. Flooding can weaken your home's foundation in addition to mold growth due to increased moisture and humidity.
When a flood or severe weather effects your home you will need help in cleaning up the damage. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties can help by putting up tarps around the property to eliminate further damage.
Certain areas are more prone to flooding requiring specific policy upgrades. Make sure you have coverage for the structure, water, wind and property loss.
Storms strikes large tree causing severe damage to second floor of home
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties specializes in storm damage restoration. Our technicians are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your home. When storms hit Bullitt County lightning struck a large tree causing damage to the second floor of this house.
Since we are locally owned, we are able to respond very quickly to your emergency. A fast response time can lessen the damage, limit any further damage and reduce the restoration cost.
According to the National Storm Damage Center (NSDC), damage caused by trees during severe weather account for over $1 billion in property damage. Broken trees can cause large amounts of damage to your property if they make contact. Damage can be done to roofing, siding, windows and even structure to the home.
When Disaster Strikes in Bardstown Distillery Office
Water Damage Destroys Office in Bardstown Distillery
When water damage happens to your business SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is the only name you need to know when water disasters happen. We design a full estimate for all the mitigation and repairs and we keep you involved with timely updates.
The longer a facility sits with water damage, the more time and money it takes to be restored. If needed, SERVPRO can set up tarps on rooftops and board up exterior walls and entry doors to prevent further damage. If your commercial office has drywall, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired. Also remember mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in moist conditions.
So if your commercial facility experiences water damage there is No disaster job in Springfield, Bardstown or Bullitt County that is TOO BIG for US.
Water damage that occurs in commercial buildings can present unique challenges. Flooding and water damage in commercial buildings requires in depth knowledge and urgent response time. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties can handle small water clean ups along with very large scale water damage and flooding. In many situations the normal operations of the business can continue while we restore the facility.
Our SERVPRO Technicians are trained to be aware of legal concerns and make concerted efforts to restore the water damaged area in a timely manner. We understand the importance that every hour spent in the clean up process has the potential for lost revenue to the business.
So when a water emergency occurs in your place of business give SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties a call at 502-904-0710.
Water damage destroys offices in Bardstown Distillery
SERVPRO Technicians cleaning up after water damage at Bardstown Distillery
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson counties specializes in the restoration and clean up of Commercial property after water damages occur.
We are highly trained in property damage restoration. Our technicians utilize the on going training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility so you can be confident that we have the expertise to restore your commercial building as if "It Never Even Happened."
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson counties is locally owned and operated. When you have flooding or a water emergency, we're nearby and ready to help. We take great pride in being apart of the Bardstown, Mt. Washington, Hillview, and Shepherdsville Community.
We are located in the heart of Mt. Washington and if you should need any assistance just give us a call. Remember here at SERVPRO we are "Always here to help."
Fire and smoke damage is different in every situation. When looking at the damage SERVPRO experts determine the best solution for your home. Our expertise in smoke damage along with our experience in handling fire losses allows us to develop a plan after such devastation.
Smoke and soot are two different elements in a fire that can invade several crevices of your home. This is a perfect situation to conceal hidden damage and odors.
The two different types of smoke are WET and DRY. Because they are different the soot they leave behind is also different. Wet smoke is sticky and has a foul odor. Dry smoke is extremely fast burning with high temperatures.
SERVPRO of BULLITT & North Nelson Counties will test the soot to discover which particular smoke damaged occurred in the fire. We then base our decision found during the pretesting.
We Specialize in Flooded Basements in BULLITT County
SERVPRO of BULLITT & N. Nelson Counties provides water damage restoration service in Mt. Washington, Shepherdsville, Hillview and Bardstown.
Water emergencies and flooding in your home can occur anytime. That is why SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson counties provides emergency restoration services 24 hours a day everyday of the week including holidays and weekends.
Water spreads very rapidly within your home and absorbs into walls, furniture and floors. To help minimize the water damage the SERVPRO technician will arrive on the scene and begin the water extraction activity immediately. This short reaction time helps decrease the cost of the restoration process to the homeowner.
Water damage can occur within minutes of the event.
1) The finish on furniture can cause stains to the carpet.
2) Books and photographs start to warp.
3) The water can within minutes absorb into floors, upholstery and walls.
Contact SERVPRO at 502-904-0710 for all your restoration needs
Air Movers being used to dry out Finished Basement
Storms with heavy rains can cause water in your home especially if you have a basement. SERVPRO professionals can come in during the mitigation process with equipment to effectively dry the area where water damaged occurred. There are several materials we use for a water loss to decrease the chance of mold to grow.
INDUSTRIAL AIR MOVERS: We use large fans to dry out the structure. The production technicians place these air movers strategically throughout the effected area.
DEHUMIDIFIERS: These are used to remove the moisture in the air which is an important aspect of the drying process. The technicians will decide how many are required based on the square footage of the area exposed to the water damage.
EXTRACTION PUMP: There are two types of extractors used to remove any standing water from floods over two inches. Portable extraction pumps require electricity where as the truck mount requires gasoline.
Hiring the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties after flood damage to your home is the best way to guarantee the property will be dried correctly.
There are 350,000 annual house fires and they happen for various reasons.
1) Faulty Electrical Wiring
2) Overheated Appliances
3) Unattended Fireplace and Candles
KITCHEN:
The kitchen is where half of all residential fires start due to appliances that use heat or gas and operate with electricity. Appliances that are 15 years or older are the most prone to fire damage.
These appliances are usually associated with kitchen fires.
1) Dishwashers- Heating elements can overheat especially in older models.
2) Dryers- Keep vents clean by removing lint after every use.
3) Microwaves- DO NOT heat foods or materials that are flammable such as aluminum foil and Styrofoam
4) Toasters- The electrical elements inside a toaster can become faulty over time and cause a fire.
Bedrooms have several potential fire hazards such as bedding, mattresses and curtains. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom
Fireplaces and Chimneys:
Keep chimneys and fireplaces cleaned and have them inspected at least once a year. Keep rugs and other fabrics away and always keep a spark screen in front of the fireplace.
Living Rooms usually contain many flammable items such as electronics, curtains and furniture. Candles are the leading fire hazard in living rooms.
SERVPRO of Bullitt and North Nelson Counties specializes in restoring your contents damaged by water. We believe our mentality of "restore" versus "replace" can help save precious keepsakes and family heirlooms that can't be replaced. SERVPRO pretests your items to determine what contents can be restored back to their condition before the water damage.
There are several ways of cleaning your contents.
* DRY CLEANING- cleaning light residue.
* WET CLEANING- for removing moderate to heavy residue.
* SPRAY & WIPE- used on items that can't tolerate wet cleaning.
* FOAM CLEANING- used on upholstery fabrics.
* ABRASIVE CLEANING- agitation to the surface being cleaned.
* IMMERSION CLEANING- dipping contents into the cleaning products.
If your valuables have been saturated by water damage let our trained professionals remove stains, mildew growth and musty odor from your precious valuables. We at SERVPRO care about your belongings and want to take care of you if you have experienced any water damage.
There are various ways that you can spot water in your home and how to prevent it from happening. Damage caused by water can easily form mold and ruin the integrity of your walls, flooring and support beams.
The three sources of water leaks are
1) STRUCTURAL LEAKS: Roof, windows and doors susceptible to cracking can be a cause of water leaks.
2) BROKEN PIPES: Numerous water pipes run throughout the home. These can burst at anytime especially during extreme cold weather.
3) APPLIANCE LEAKS: Household appliances such as toilets, dishwashers, and washing machines can break causing water to damage the home.
There are also preventative measures to safeguard your home against water damage.
1) Check on your roof and windows to ensure they are free from cracks.
2) Regular inspection of the integrity of the pipes in the home.
3) Make sure there is proper drainage in and around your home which will prevent water from building up against the foundation.
Regularly maintaining the integrity of your home can help prevent devastating water damage to one of your most important assets.
The number one cause of home fires is cooking fires according to the National Fire Protection Association. Unattended cooking was the cause of this kitchen fire that destroyed this entire home.
There are numerous helpful recommendations to help avoid kitchen fires.
* While cooking NEVER leave food unattended.
* Wearing loose sleeves on clothing while cooking is never a good idea.
*Make sure to clean cooking surfaces on a routine basis to eliminate grease buildup.
*Have a routine before leaving the house or going to bed to make sure the stove is turned off.
*DO NOT keep flammable items near the oven.
*Whenever you are cooking utilize the timer to remember the stove is ON.
*DO NOT allow children around the cooking area.
*Always have a fire extinguisher close to the stove.
*Remember to regularly replace the smoke detector batteries.
*Install smoke detectors in the kitchen and near bedrooms in the house.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson counties is locally owned and able to respond quickly to any fire damage emergency.
As summertime starts to wind down the cooler weather will be here soon. There are several fire prevention tips to keep your property safe.
When you change the clocks backwards in the fall it is a great time to check all of the smoke detectors. It is recommended that each bedroom and every floor of your home have a smoke detector.
As the leaves begin to change and the cool crisp air of autumn sets in it is a good idea to have your heating system cleaned and your chimney inspected.
During the fall months the "family gatherings" around the fire pit become extremely popular. Some key things to keep in mind is to place the fire on level ground a safe distance from your home. Never use gasoline or kerosene to start your fire. It is always best to use dry wood and kindling. Never leave the fire pit unattended or allow children to monitor this fall activity.
House fires can happen quickly. if your home has been damaged by smoke or fire call SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson counties at 502-904-0710.
Flooded living room was caused by cracked hose bib.
The hose bib (outside spigot) is the faucet located on the exterior of your house. This homeowners hose bib cracked causing extensive water damage inside the house. A cracked hose bib allows for continuous water leaks until the unit is replaced.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson counties was there to help these homeowners after this devastating flood occurred in their living room, kitchen and throughout the first floor.
Some helpful tips to do after flooding occurs:
1) Remove excess water using a mop.
2) Remove wet upholstery.
3) Turn air conditioning on for drying in summer.
4) Wipe off water from wood furniture.
5) Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
Call SERVPRO if you experience water damage in your house. We offer fast response time and the expertise to get the job done right.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived to find an entire downstairs condominium flooded by a busted water pipe from the upstairs unit. Take a look at the picture of the damaged caused by the flood. The entire condo was impacted. The drywall, floors, and ceilings throughout the condo needed to be removed due to the extensive water damage.
Water damage also affects your furniture and personal items. SERVPRO can restore these items using our specialized cleaning techniques by our qualified technicians.
Time is extremely important after a major water disaster. along with being familiar with the most effective processes and safest compounds to stop the spread of molds.
SERVPRO is available twenty four hours a day and we provide the latest procedures to protect our customer's property after a major flood. We can then start to rebuild what the flood had destroyed.
A fire can spread very quickly and can even become life threatening in a matter of two minutes. An entire home can be engulfed in flames within five minutes.
There are several safety precautions you can take in order to ensure that you and your family escape safely.
1) Stay very low to the ground and crawl under the smoke to the nearest exit.
2) Before opening a door make sure and feel the door first to see if it is HOT to the touch. Open it very slowly and be prepared to shut it quickly. If the door seems hot DO NOT OPEN and find another exit.
3)If you can not find an escape, close all doors, cover the cracks under the doors and cover all air vents.
4) Call 911 and explain where you are located within the house.
5) Most importantly if your clothes happen to catch on fire remember the old saying " STOP, DROP and ROLL.
Fires can spread very quickly and being prepared by planning an escape is vital in keeping your family safe.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties provides emergency service following fire damage. Our technicians respond quickly and help restore the structure following a fire.
In as little as 48 hours a mold issue can quickly spread through a business. You can tell mold is a threat to your safety when it grows and takes over a certain area of the building infrastructure.
Some amounts of mold spores are present in most environments. Materials found inside commercial buildings such as wood, insulation and drywall provide sources for mold to grow.
If there is a moisture problem inside the commercial building you need to be on the look out for these variables.
Excessive humidity.
Odors that smell musty.
Evidence of past moisture problems.
Visible mold.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties are specialists in Mold Damage. We have the experience and the advanced training that enables us to get your commercial property restored due to mold growth.
These homeowners stood in shock as the flames started coming out of their home in Shepherdsville, KY. This fire was caused by a faulty oven in the kitchen of this home. Notice in the photo the fire damage along the walls, ceiling, and floors. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived quickly on the scene, taking immediate action to start the restoration process in this home. Thanks to the amazing fire restoration technicians, SERVPRO cleaning products, and the latest technology, this home is now restored.
If you should need any assistance with Fire & Water Restoration, Bio-Hazardous clean-up, or repairs call the team of professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
This homeowner in Bardstown, KY endured a major loss when an electrical fire destroyed their home. Take a look at this photo that illustrates the level of fire damage throughout this home. Notice one of our fire restoration technicians wearing the Personal Protective suit. These suits help protect their clothing, skin, and help stop the spread of soot when they leave. This home was practically down to the bones of the framing when SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene. After many hours of hard work and dedication this home has come a long way in the fire restoration process. If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
This home owner in Springfield, KY came home to a water disaster when their toilet line busted, wrecking havoc throughout their home. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived quickly on the scene, drying out water damaged areas and removing unsalvageable materials. Notice in the photo one of our specialty pieces of equipment; the injectidry water extraction machine. This machine has saved many wood floors from water damage and will hopefully save many more. Making it, "Look like it never even happened," is a group effort here at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. It took skilled IICRC technicians, top of the line equipment, and some elbow grease, to get this plastic floor containment and machine set up. If you should need any assistance just give us a call.
The warmer weather is always appreciated. However, warmer weather opens the doors to severe thunder storms and dangerous weather conditions. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was responding to many leaky roofs after the hail and rain storms passed through our area. Take a look at these shingles that were torn off during the wind and rain storm. These homeowners started to notice water spots on their ceiling, which is usually a sure sign of a roof leak.
Roof Leak Tips
Look for a roof leak during the day.
Go into the attic with a bright flashlight; and watch your step.
Fixing the leak as soon as possible will prevent further damage and possible mold growth.
If you should need any assistance with water spots in your home call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Shiny floors despite the water restoration taking place.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties
Notice in this photo the tidy demolition. SERVPRO worked around the clock to ensure that this local courthouse could open its doors as soon as possible. Providing community services is a vital part of any community and SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was proud to be a part of the efforts being made. SERVPRO enjoys the fellowship with other local business's, residents, and community development projects. We have seen Mount Washington, KY grow so much in the last few years, along with other local areas in Bullitt and Nelson counties. We hope that we can be a part of these growing communities and pour resources back into them. If you should need any assistance call your local SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
This local casino is on river front property, making it a prime location for visitors, flooding, and mold. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene as soon as the river receded. The river is a beautiful place to be, but when heavy rains and storms passed through the area, it caused major flooding. Take a look at this photo. Can you see the level of water damage? SERVPRO immediately began restoration work, removing drywall and debris. If you should need any assistance with your home or business call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. "Like it never even happened."
IICRC Technicians
Latest technology
Equipment designed for Restoration efficiency.
Cleaning Chemicals engineered for the highest performance.
When you choose SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties for your restoration or cleaning services, you can count on the highest standards and integrity. Notice the detail and cleanliness in this photo. SERVPRO takes great pride to make sure every job we do is economically efficient and thorough. We strategically place equipment in the areas that will most impact the drying out process, quickly and effectually. If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Just a Few reasons to choose SERVPRO
IICRC Technicians
Professional Fire Technicians
Mold Remediation Specialist
Latest Technology and Equipment
Chemicals specifically designed for restoration and cleaning purposes.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties is open 24hrs. a day, 7 days a week.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was quick to arrive on the scene when a busted water line wrecked havoc in a local courthouse. Take a look at the extensive damage that took place throughout the area. Notice the water damaged walls and ceiling. This leak started upstairs creating water damage to more than one level of the courthouse. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties worked around the clock to help get the courthouse back up and running for the citizens of Kentucky.
Take the greatest caution while entering your home or business, and wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing when dealing with flooded areas. Wear protective clothing at all times.
Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
If you should need any assistance with your home or business call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties worked hard to get this home in Mt. Washington, KY dry and safe. Take a look at the ceiling removal exposing the joist, electrical cords, and plumbing. After a few days of relentless rain this roof gave way and the water just poured in. SERVPRO is the #1 restoration company in our nation, working along side our communities, and local business's. If you should need any assistance call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. "We are always here to help."
Do not enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
Do not attempt to operate any electrical equipment while standing in wet or damp locations.
Do not use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
SERVPRO has been the leading restoration company in the United States for many years. The SERVPRO brand has been seen throughout homes and businesses since 1967. With over 50 years of service and experience SERVPRO is a trusted name throughout the United States and Canada. When you call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties you can count on the best. With IICRC technicians, fire restoration specialists, the latest technology, and cleaning agents; you can rest assured your home or business is in good hands.
Take a look at the SERVPRO equipment working hard to dry out this water damaged home in Mount Washington, KY. Notice the thorough job SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties technicians did, to ensure this home owner a dry and safe restoration process.
Establishing new ways to help proactively protect our nation.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties
We want to let everyone know that when you call SERVPRO you are getting service from the #1 Restoration Company in the nation. We are in very perilous times in our world and SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties wants to let everyone know that we are here to help.
We can help minimize the spread of germs with proactive cleaning! At SERVPRO, we’re trained to adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards, making us the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration. Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties (502)904-0710 or email us at SERVPRO.9984.office@gmail.com to see how we can help clean your home or business.
Here at SERVPRO we make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Founded in 1967, the SERVPRO Franchise System is a leading provider for fire and water cleanup, restoration services, mold mitigation, and remediation. SERVPRO's professional services network of more than 1,700 individually owned and operated Franchises. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties is proud to be among one of those 1,700. SERVPRO's all across America respond to property damage emergencies; ranging from small individual disasters to multi-million dollar large-loss events.
Take a look at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties working hard to dry out this water damaged kitchen in Mt. Washington, KY. We always work with integrity and do our best to make it look, "Like it never even happened."
If you are wondering who to call for help in these very troubling times, remember that SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties is, "Always here to help." We are taking very special care and precautions to keep our employees and customers safe. You can count on us to stop the spread of germs with a professional cleaning for your home or business. As the #1 choice for cleanup and restoration, we have the resources to help you immediately. Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties or email us at SERVPRO.9984.office@gmail.com to see how we can help clean your home or business. Our technicians are IICRC certified, professional, and highly trained in hazardous clean up. Here at SERVPRO we make it look, "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties works hard to keep up with the high standards of the SERVPRO brand. As you can see in this photo the green machines are working hard to dry out this water damaged area. SERVPRO uses the latest technology in the restoration and cleaning industries. We are constantly making improvements as technology advances. When you chose SERVPRO for your restoration or cleaning needs, you can count on the best. Our technicians are certified, professional, and enter all of our customers home and business's with the utmost integrity. If you should need any assistance call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We are open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
"We are always here to help."
Bullitt County Court House started 2020 with a busted pipe! Yikes!
Water Damage to the Bullitt County Courthouse 2nd Floor Main Hall
We all want to start the year with our best foot forward but this year at Bullitt County Courthouse started their year with a pipe that caused extensive water damage.
A water fountain leak caused a big problem; the flood not only covered hallways, offices, and other rooms but it also caused damage to the drywall and ceilings on two floors!
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties showed up to the scene quickly to clean up the damage you can see in the photo and to restore the courthouse. We strive to always work in an efficient and effective manner.
Our Experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties are ready to help 24/7 to help make it look, “Like it never even happened.” ®
We can’t stress enough the importance of preparing properly to avoid damage to your home (as best as possible).
There is only one way to be ready a disaster; PREPARE!
Putting off that somewhat irritating chore of having your roof inspected regularly can end with mold damage to your home. Cleaning and inspecting your home regularly inside and out can minimize the possibility of mold growth. Another simple maintenance you can service your home with is insulation! Mold is a fungus and fungus thrive in moist and cold environments. Insulating properly can significantly change the outcome mold brings to your home.
Remember
Inspect
Clean
Look for Damage
Insulate
And most importantly if you suspect there may be mold growing in your home don't wait to call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties professionals in cleaning and restoration service.
An image of the HVAC Wrap that flooded after a heavy storm.
These homeowners were affected with water damage due to heavy storm water flooding their HVAC System. Yuck! Look at this image clearly showing the damage a storm can cause.
The HVAC flooding caused water damage through the garage, hallway, master bathroom, and master bedroom; all along the ceiling, drywall, and flooring there was evidence of the storm damage.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was called to clean up and restore this home. Our trained professionals cleaned out all the damage and took preventive measures to ensure this home was not affected by mold then proceeded to make this home look,
"Like it never even happened."®
Weather its water or fire or mold damage, SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties is available to help 24/7.
This image shows the mold growth in the bathroom floor.
Water damage can sneak into the very bones of you house and cause mold to grow right beneath your very nose.
This homeowner called SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties to help remove the mold that had moved in to their home uninvited. There was mold deep into the floor and walls of this home. Our trained professionals removed the infected areas and restored this home.
It is crucial to have moisture controlled within our homes. BUT what about the rooms in the house that have constant use of water? These rooms require so much more attention from homeowners as they are at higher risk to the growth of mold.
Inspecting your home once in a while can help you catch mold before it causes damage. Don't worry if you find mold in your home, just pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties where, "We are always here to help."
It is that time of year when family and friend get together and celebrate the holidays. When you are expecting guest, preparing meals and trying to get that shopping done the last thing you want is your house to be torn apart and soaking wet. This picture was taken of house in Shepherdsville Ky that had some water damage in the basement after the heavy amount of rainfall we had across our area and due to sump pump failure. SERVPRO of Bullitt and North Nelson counties was called in to clean up the house and get it back in order just in time to enjoy the gathering of friend and family for the holidays. So if your having any kind of water loss/damage let SERVPRO of Bullitt and North Nelson counties help make the holidays less stressful for you.
Office bathroom and lobby area with SERVPRO equipment.
A busted toilet line wrecks havoc in a local business
This business was running as usual on a chilly afternoon, when all of the sudden; water started running through the office areas. The staff was surprised to discover that a busted toilet line had flooded a bathroom and lobby area. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived quickly on the scene and began removing in-salvageable materials, setting up equipment, and drying out the affected areas. Notice in the photo how each piece of SERVPRO equipment is facing a specific area? This is to create an airflow that will quickly dry out any water damaged areas and prevent further damage.
If you should need any assistance with water, fire, or mold, call the professionals and leading water restoration company SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Take a look at this photo. Notice that the violent winds and rain from this storm caused major damage in this living-room ceiling. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties worked hard to help clean up all of the debris and water damaged materials left behind from this powerful storm. It is important to remove wet materials as soon as possible, to prevent the growth of mold spores and any further structural damage. If you should need assistance with any water damage call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We use IICRC technicians, the latest technology in cleaning chemicals and equipment, and we always stand behind our work. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Most people enjoy watching the birds gracefully soar through the sky, feed their young, and bathe in puddles. However, this business owner was not a fan, when a flock of birds migrated into their warehouse. Do you notice the piles accumulated in-between the metal framing posts? That is just one small portion of the bird droppings that covered the entire building. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties worked hard to remove the contaminants from this building. SERVPRO uses the latest technology in cleaning chemicals and equipment. If you are needing any assistance, residential or commercial, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Do you ever think to talk a look under the house? Most don't! Take a look at this photo taken of a crawlspace in Shepherdsville that our team of professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt and North Nelson Counties went in and cleaned up. Crawlspaces are great spaces that mold can grow in because of the cool, dark and damp conditions. Having mold in your home can cause some health issues so it is important to get it cleaned up asap.
Tips for Defending Against Mold
Keep the humidity between 30 and 60 percent
Correct any water leaks or standing water
Inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks on a regular basis
Respond to all water intrusions as soon as you notice them.
What remains of a hallway after a devastating fire.
Home Engulfed in Flames
Take a look at this image you can almost smell the smoke through this photo. This shows the devastating damage left behind from an electrical fire. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived at the destination and immediately started the fire restoration process. Our team of highly trained fire restoration technicians worked hard on this house in Mt. Washington, KY to restore it back to its former glory.
Fire Restoration Tips
Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
Do not send clothes to dry cleaner, improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
Take a look at these floating ABC's. This is not vegetable soup folks, but a flooded basement from a faulty sump pump. This may be some kids ideal playroom, but for the homeowners this was a devastating sight. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene and immediately began extracting water. SERVPRO uses the latest technology in restoration equipment, cleaning chemicals, and IICRC technicians; helping us to be the leading restoration company in the United States. If you should need any assistance contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Water Restoration Tips
Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
Electric Chair starts Ablaze in a local Retirement Home
Electric Chair removed from Residents room after a faulty wire caught it on fire.
Mt. Washington, KY Retirement Home catches Fire
Take a look at this fire damaged electrical chair that was removed from one of the residents room. A faulty wire set this chair ablaze in a matter of seconds. Thankfully, the staff got the flames under control before anyone was injured. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene, removing fire damaged materials, cleaning the affected areas, and setting up SERVPRO equipment.
Tips for Fire Restoration
Place aluminium foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading.
Coat faucets, trim, and appliances in petroleum jelly.
Remember if you should need any assistance call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. "We are always here to help."
Water pocket in ceiling from busted water valve in an upstairs unit.
Apartment Residents in Louisville, KY had a major headache from Water Damage
Take a look at this water pocket that caved in the ceiling of a lower apartment units laundry room. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties began removing the water damaged materials, setting up equipment, and restoring as much of the structural materials as possible. Gaining access to several apartment units can be quite the challenge and SERVPRO greatly appreciates the residents cooperation in the affected units. If you should find yourself needing assistance in water restoration, fire damage cleanup and restoration, or mold remediation, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Remember here at SERVPRO, "We are always here to help."
The rain was coming down on a cold Fall night in Kentucky; when a sump pump decided it was time to call it quits. These homeowners could not believe their eyes when a small pond developed in their basement. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties loaded up the water extraction van and rushed to the scene. Extracting water from homes and businesses is one of the specialties SERVPRO performs. SERVPRO has been equipped with the latest technology in equipment, cleaning chemicals, and IICRC technicians. Remember, when you call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties you are getting the professionals in restoration services. We make it look, "Like it never even happened." ®
Condensation Line causes Homeowners in Mt. Washington, KY major Problems
Take a look at the water flowing through this homeowners duct-work from a busted condensation line. Notice that the ceiling has been removed and the amount of repairs that will be needed to restore the ceiling and duct-work. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene and immediately began removing water damaged materials. After properly drying out the structure, an HVAC contractor fixed the A/C unit, and the repairs were underway. SERVPRO uses the latest technology in equipment, cleaning chemicals, and restoration techniques.
If you should need any assistance with water, fire, or mold, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We are open 7 days a week, 24 hrs. a day. "Like it never even happened." ®
Chemical Fire in Garage covers House in Soot and Debris.
Take a look at the fire damage in this downstairs kitchenette in Bardstown, KY. This fire was started by chemicals that were improperly disposed of in a garage garbage can. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene immediately taking precautions, to salvage as much structural material as possible. When dealing with soot it is imperative to not cause further damage by spreading soot throughout the unaffected areas.
Tips
Coat faucets and handles with petroleum jelly.
Lay mats in heavy traffic areas to protect flooring.
Contact a professional fire restoration service to ensure proper cleanup and prevent further damage.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties works hard to serve our community and we want all of our customers to know that, "We are always here to help."
Electric Chair causes a Blazing Fire in a Local Retirement Home
Take a look at the contents of this room that have been covered in Fire Extinguisher residue. Thankfully, no one was injured in this fire and all of the residents were escorted to safety. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties quickly arrived on the scene to remove fire damaged materials,treat the affected areas, and restore as many contents and structural materials as possible.This fire was caused by an electric chair malfunction, that was removed and contained, as soon as possible.
Having local emergency responders is a vital part of any community. The local fire department and the staff of the retirement facility, did an amazing job of getting the blaze under control. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties is proud to be a part of the emergency responders within our community.
Kitchen after the water damaged materials were removed.
Water Damaged Kitchen in Bardstown, KY
This homeowner in Bardstown, KY came home to quite the mess when a pipe busted, damaging flooring, cabinets, and drywall. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties started removing the water damaged materials, setting up equipment, and restoring as much structural material as possible. Notice in the photo that the cabinets and flooring were removed. Once water has reached a certain level of saturation in structural materials, they cannot be salvaged. Remember to check for leaks frequently and to take immediate action when water damage is discovered.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties
Is proud to be a part of the SERVPRO franchises and we want all of our customers to know that we appreciate your business. If you should need any assistance give us a call today. "We are always here to help."
SERVPRO equipment working hard to dry-out wood floors.
Roof Leak causes Wood-Floors to Buckle
Take a look at these beautiful hard-wood floors in this Shepherdsville, KY home. Unfortunately, a roof leak caused major damage to parts of the flooring and those areas had to removed. However, the flooring you see in the photo was salvaged with SERVPRO water extraction mats, air movers, and dehumidifiers. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties uses the latest technology in cleaning products and equipment. Our team specializes in water and fire restoration. We have certified IICRC technicians who have underwent extensive training, to ensure our customers with top of the services. If you should need any assistance call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. Remember, "We are always here to help."
Take a look at this photo! This is no sci-fi clip, what you see here is a moldy nightmare. This homeowner in Panama City, FL had mold growing in the insulation, which eventually revealed itself through the drywall and outer areas. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties begin removing the molded materials to dry out the structure and treat the affected areas. SERVPRO uses the latest technology in our cleaning products and equipment, so you can count on us to deliver the best. If you are needing any assistance call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Mold Reduction Tips
Properly maintain humidifiers.
Correct any water leaks.
Replace wet or visibly moldy insulation materials.
Remove any standing water under cooling coils, air units, and certain appliances.
Take a look at this room after the fire restoration technicians removed damaged materials.
Fire in Louisville, KY
Take a look at this room that has been treated, cleaned, and had the fire damaged walls and insulation removed. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was quick to arrive on the scene. Our highly trained fire technicians worked diligently, restoring and cleaning the damage caused from faulty electrical wires. SERVPRO has the latest technology and equipment to deodorize the area, and to make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Fire Restoration Tips
Limit movement in the home to prevent spreading soot and adding additional damage to the area.
Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
Do not clean any electrical equipment.
Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
Remember, if you should need any assistance with fire, water, or mold call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Take a look at the remains of a local Bardstown, KY office after a fire almost destroyed the entire building. Thankfully, no one was injured in the fire and the blaze was extinguished just in time to save important files and documents. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene and began to gently remove valuable items, files, and materials that could be cleaned and salvaged. Once the items were removed the Fire Restoration was in progress; removing vents, drywall, insulation, cleaning the structure with SERVPRO's signature chemical sponges, and setting up SERVPRO equipment to remove any remaining odors.
Fire Restoration Tips
Limit movement in the home/business to prevent soot from spreading.
Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil.
Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
Do not shampoo carpet or upholstery.
Do not clean electrical equipment.
Do not send clothing to a dry cleaner since improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties, "We are always here to help."
Somethings frying in this Kentucky kitchen and it ain't chicken
Soot on the kitchen walls of a local Kentucky home.
Faulty stove sets ablaze in this Kentucky kitchen
Take a look at these cabinet imprints left behind. Notice in the photo that they have all been marked by soot. This illustration reveals the level of damage a fire causes long after the flames have been put out. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived on the scene and immediately began with the restoration process. Thankfully, no one was injured in this fire, and once the local Fire Department hero's put the flames out, the SERVPRO hero's began making it look, "Like it never even happened."
Fire Cleaning Tips
Place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet.
Do not wash any walls or painted surfaces.
If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties in Progress.
Take a look at this kitchen in Bardstown, KY. Notice that most of the structural material was removed for drying. This was due to the amount of water damage in the cabinets and flooring, that made them unsalvageable. As you can see, SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties equipment is working hard to help save the drywall and subfloor. Thoroughly drying out the structure helps prevent the possibility of mold growth and overall well maintenance of the home.
Emergency Water Tips
Shut off the water source if possible.
Do not use regular vacuum to remove water.
Remove excess water by mopping or blotting.
Do not leave color items such as books, magazines, etc. on wet carpet.
Keep out of areas with sagging ceiling from retained water.
Remember if you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. "We are always here to help."
Easter Fun with the Mt. Washington Police Department
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties celebrating Easter
We had a wonderful experience delivering Easter joy to our local Mt. Washington, KY police station, schools, and businesses. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties understands the importance of fellowship with others and all of us working together for the common good. We work hard within our community to bring relief from disasters and to make what was once a great loss, "Like it never even happened." If you should need any assistance with water, fire, or mold call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Emergency Service Response
Latest Technology & Equipment
IICRC Technicians
Specifically Designed Cleaning Chemicals
Remember here at SERVPRO, "We are always here to help."
Carpet lifted to dry from heavy flooding in the area.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties drying out a basement in Omaha, NE
When heavy rains caused massive flooding in the Omaha, NE area, SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was quick to respond. Notice in the photo that their finished basement looks more like an old school ghost town with the floating carpet in various areas. This was needed to dry out the affected areas and to reserve as much of the carpet as possible. SERVPRO uses the latest technology and equipment to perform restoration services and to make it look, "Like it never even happened." If you should need any assistance we are open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties is proud to be part of the disaster relief efforts made within our great nation. Remember, "We are always here to help."
Wind removed shingles from a local roof during a storm.
Strong Storms cause widespread Roof damage in Mt. Washington, KY
Take a look at this roof in Mt. Washington, KY. Tarped roofs were the common scene in our area with hundreds of homes affected. We had strong storms run through very quickly with wind gusts of up to 68 mph. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties arrived quickly on the scene when this homeowner had a water leak form in their bedroom ceiling. SERVPRO immediately began removing damaged materials and drying out the structure with our top of the line equipment. Roof leaks can cause major damage in homes, especially if they have gone unnoticed for a period of time. This allows for mold spores to spread creating more damage throughout the home. If you suspect any damage call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We are open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
Water Extraction Mat pulling water from tile floor.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties
Take a look at this water extraction mat working hard to remove moisture from this tile floor. The extraction mat system along with an air mover, helps create a vacuum seal that helps speed up the drying process. The system works by moving air from the subfloor to the surface and using high pressure to draw out evaporated moisture in damaged areas. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties uses technologies and equipment like this to make every job possible look, "Like it never even happened."
Why SERVPRO
IICRC Technicians
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Integrity and Service
Emergency Response Teams
Specialty SERVPRO Cleaning Products
SERVPRO Strong Equipment
If you should need any assistance call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Take a look at this SERVPRO air mover working hard to dry this closet. It make look small but this high performance air mover produces a high velocity air flow, uses only 1.9 amps, and is made in the USA. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties uses top of the line equipment that has been specifically designed for restoration purposes. If you should need any assistance call the trained professionals at SERVPRO and we will make it look, "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Tips
Never leave magazines, books, or any other colored items on wet carpet.
Never turn on ceiling fixtures if wet.
Do not use a household vacuum to remove water.
Hang furs and leather goods separately and in room temperature.
Busted Water Heater causes major damage in local Apartment Complex.
Flooded Apartment Complex in Louisville, KY
Take a look at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties equipment. Notice that it is getting stacked outside of a local apartment complex, due to a busted water heater that caused a substantial amount of flooding. SERVPRO arrived on the scene and immediately began helping these residents dry out their units. Thankfully, the units were restored with minor repairs due to emergency response team at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Water Damage Tips
Shut off water source if possible.
Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
When the storms in Omaha, NE produced massive flooding, SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was honored, to help the residents get back into their homes. Take a look at the SERVPRO equipment working hard to dry out this carpet and save this homeowner on replacement cost. It may look a little messy to the untrained eye, but each piece of equipment has been strategically placed for optimum drying. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties uses the latest technology and resources, to ensure our customers that they are receiving the best services possible. If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO.
IICRC Technicians
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties is, "Always here to help."
Devasting fire in Mt. Washington, KY caused by Faulty Wiring
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties
Take a look at this devastating fire loss in Mt. Washington, KY. This fire was caused by faulty wiring and it practically engulfed the whole house in flames. Thankfully, with the help of the fire department and SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties, this was not a complete loss. SERVPRO fire technicians got to work immediately, by removing damaged material, soot, and setting up equipment.
SERVPRO is the leading restoration company and here's why.
Emergency Response within One Hour
Latest Technology in Restoration Equipment & Chemicals
Trained IICRC Technicians, Fire Technicians, and Cleaning Technicians
Held to the highest standard of Integrity & Service
If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties and we will make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Cabinets and Toilet detached after a water line busted saturating the Flooring
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties
Take a look at our SERVPRO green equipment working hard to dry out this bathroom in Louisville, KY. Notice that the toilet and cabinets had to be detached, along with the flooring, that had to removed, due to water damage. This is an example of how through SERVPRO is, when performing water mitigation services. We are the leading restoration company. But did you know that we also perform mold remediation services? This is the reason that SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties will not leave any moisture behind. We understand that moisture left behind can and will cause future mold issues. If you should need any assistance with mold remediation, water or fire restoration, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
There are many restoration services that you can call, but not all restoration companies comply with the high standards of SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. We value and appreciate our customers and that is why we always walk our customers through the restoration process. When you call SERVPRO you can be sure that you will be informed on;
Equipment: how it works, why we use it, and what you can expect.
Chemicals: what they do and why we use them.
Mitigation: the process of necessary demolition (if required to dry out structure), time needed for drying out, any treatment, cleaning, or put back services required.
Estimate: SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties will always give you a detailed scope of work, to ensure your approval on everything we do.
If you should need any assistance, listed above is just a few of the great reasons to call SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Home after Hurricane Michael hit Florida Pan Handle
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties
Take a look at this home that was damaged when Hurricane Michael ripped through the pan handle of Florida. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was fortunate enough to be a part of the Storm Team Disaster Relief efforts in that area. Did you know that SERVPRO has storm teams all across America? We are always available and ready to help home and business owners when disaster strikes. SERVPRO uses the latest technology to perform restoration services, ensuring our customers excellent service at the most cost-effective way. If you should need any assistance trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties, we make it look, "Like it never even happened."
This homeowner in Louisville, KY was shocked to discover mold and rot under their cabinets, due to an unknown leak. A water pipe had busted behind the cabinets and ran continually, until the damage had become visible. Notice in the photo all the damage that was revealed once the cabinets were removed. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties quickly assessed the situation and began removing the rotted and molded materials. Unfortunately, leaks like this one can cause major damage and all of the materials seen here had to be replaced. Remember to randomly check under cabinets, around water heaters, and in any area that can be overlooked easily.
We are open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Here at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties we are, "Always here to help."
This homeowner found a nasty surprise in the laundry room, when wet clothes caused Mold Growth along the baseboards and wall. Notice in the photo how mold spreads in all directions. Remember when dealing with mold, it is imperative that you call in the experts. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties wants to ensure all of our customers that when you call us, top of the line treatment, remediation, and precautions are made.
SERVPRO is of one of the top industries when dealing with mold. Our equipment and chemicals are specially designed by highly trained professionals to treat and prevent mold growth.
If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
Sump Pump cannot compete with Relentless Kentucky Rain
Kentucky Rain causes Major Damage to Local Homeowners
These homeowners in Taylorsville, KY got more than their fair share of rain during a relentless storm in Kentuckiana. SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was quick to respond; extracting water from carpet, setting up equipment, and pumping out excess water due to a failed sump pump. SERVPRO only uses top of the line technology and equipment, ensuring our customers the very best. If you should need any assistance call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties. Remember here at SERVPRO, we make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Water Line Causes Major Issues in Shepherdsville, KY Office
SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties was quick to respond, when a pipe burst giving this local office a major headache. Notice in the photo the equipment placement and baseboard removal. When dealing with moisture it is vital to dry out the structure as soon as possible, to avoid potential mold growth and any further structural damage.
Water Damage Precautions
Never enter a room with water damage that has an electrical shock potential.
Never leave books, newspapers, magazines, or any other colored materials as these colors can stain, causing more damage.
Never try to use your household vacuum to remove water from the saturated area.
Remember if you should need any assistance, call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
These condos in Louisville, KY were devastated by a fire when one of the tenants disposed of a cigarette butt improperly. Take a look at the skeletal structure that remains after this devastating fire. Luckily, this condo was located on the second floor and the flames did not disintegrate the floor of an above unit. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties quickly arrived on the scene, clearing out debris and safely cleaning the affected areas. Soot particles from the fire can cause even more damage if cleaned improperly. Always be sure you have an experienced company when dealing with a fire loss to preserve as many belongings as possible. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties is, "Always here to help."
These business owners in Mt. Washington, KY were astonished to discover a Mold Nightmare, when fixing a water leak. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked hard with these business owners, trying to get the place up and running, as soon as possible. Removing the badly damaged materials, running Air Scrubbers, along with Dehumidifiers, and Air Movers, were the first steps to making this disaster look, "Like it never even happened."
Mold Precautions
Always make sure and check hidden spaces within your home or business to ensure no leaks, mold, or hazardous conditions are going unnoticed. Catching a leak early, greatly reduces the possibility of Mold damage. Should you need an expert opinion about questionable areas in your home or business, call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties.
This homeowner in Bardstown, KY was dealing with respiratory problems and other minor irritations, when she decided to investigate the case. She was surprised to learn that Mold was the corporate. A leaking water heater, that had gone unnoticed caused mold to cover the walls, insulation, and flooring. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties got started on the job right away, so that she could return home as quick as possible. Notice in the photo the mold creeping throughout the insulation. This mobile home had to go under some major demolition to remove the unsalvageable material and to create a safe, clean, mold-free environment. Remember here at SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties, we are, "Always here to help."
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties was honored to join forces with the Storm Teams in Panama City, FL. Take a look at this building that was almost completely leveled to the ground. This was the devastating scene throughout the panhandle of Florida, due to the powerful storm named, "Hurricane Michael". SERVPRO has been working hard with home owners, local business owners, volunteers, and charitable organizations, to help clean up and rebuild these beautiful cities. This is hard back breaking work, but with great teams and great companies, all of this hard work will reap a great reward. SERVPRO is proud to be part of the disaster relief programs and is working very long hours to make it look, "Like it never even happened."
These business owners in Taylorsville, KY were beyond words when they saw that their offices were saturated with water. Look at the SERVPRO equipment hard at work in one of the cubicles. The air movers have been strategically placed throughout the area to help dry out the drywall and surface areas. The dehumidifier is removing all of the excess water to help speed up the process and salvage as much structural material as possible. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties understands the inconvenience of having to shut down business when unexpected disasters occur. That's why we work hard to ensure that our work is done efficiently and quickly. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you should need any assistance just give us a call and remember that we are, "Always here to help."
When the restaurant next door to this boutique shop in Mt. Washington, KY flooded, the damage carried over, destroying the walls in the back room. Take a look at this containment wall designed to help protect this business from any further water damages. Notice that the drywall and baseboards had to be removed as they were unsalvageable, due to extensive damage. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked hard to help this business owner save as much structural material as possible. We value our customers and want them to know that they are in good hands with SERVPRO. We strive to make every job that we do look, "Like it never even happened." If you should need any assistance just give your local SERVPRO a call.
Sump Pump Failure Causes Major Damage in Mt. Washington, KY
These homeowners in Mt. Washington, KY woke up to a very unpleasant surprise, when water was flowing out of their sump pump and into their finished basement. Notice in the photo the flooring had to be removed. The air movers were placed throughout the area to properly dry out the structure and to restore the area, "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked hard with these homeowners to restore their home and to save on the cost of repairs. Remember to act quickly when dealing with water damage to prevent the growth of mold. The sooner the moisture is removed the better. If possible, pull back carpet and wet material to prevent any further damages.
This Indiana Casino got dealt a bad hand when a soda machine in the back room caught fire. Luckily there was minimal fire damage, and everyone escaped and was okay. Notice in the photo SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties preparing equipment to began the fire restoration process. Our crew worked long hours to help this business get back up and running as quickly as possible. Fires can be devastating and SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties takes great pride in valuing our customers, making them feel appreciated, and providing the top of the line service. Here at SERVPRO we have only the best equipment, products, and employees so everything we do is held to the highest standard.
These homeowners in Kentucky were just married, starting their lives together, and planning their future when a devastating fire destroyed their new home. Returning from your Honeymoon should be exciting, but for this newly wed couple, it was nightmare. All the beautiful wedding gifts were burned up in the fire, along with precious photos, and belongings. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked hard with these homeowners to salvage as many precious memories as possible and to give them back the home of their dreams. After some very long hours and true dedication to detail, SERVPRO was able to get these newly weds back into their home. Remember here at SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties we are, "Always here to help."
This homeowner in North Carolina was one of many that had extensive flood damage from Hurricane Florence. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties was proud to join forces with the SERVPRO Storm Team to help this homeowner return home as soon as possible. Notice in the photo all the flooring, drywall, and insulation had to be removed. This was due to the flood waters contaminating the structures material and causing the need for removal. When dealing with flood waters, it may take weeks for the water to reside, causing mold spores to form and structural material to be beyond repair. SERVPRO worked long hours to remove the material and prepare the home for repairs, making sure everything met the SERVPRO standards and guidelines.
Leaky Line causes major damage in Shepherdsville, KY Home
Water Line Leak went Unnoticed in Shepherdsville, KY Home
These homeowners in Shepherdsville, KY noticed water rings starting to develop in their bathroom floor. By the time SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties arrived on the scene, the damage was already pretty extensive. As you can see in the photo most of the flooring, including the subfloor, was beyond repair. SERVPRO quickly went to work, drying out as much of the structure as possible, and beginning demo work to prevent any further mold growth. Remember catching a leak early will greatly reduce the amount of repairs and sub-structural materials removed. If you have noticed water rings in your home or suspect a leak, call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties, open 24hrs a day, 7 days a week. Here at SERVPRO we make it look, "Like it never even happened."
These homeowners in Shepherdsville, KY had beautiful wood floors throughout their home. The homeowner had started a load of laundry and gone out for the day. When they returned, water had flooded the first level of their home, saturating the wood floors. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties quickly arrived on the scene, setting up equipment and drying out the structure immediately. Notice the Water Extraction Mats in the photo. The homeowners were astonished at the outcome these mats produced. Drying out wood flooring is never an easy task, but with the right equipment, technicians, and company, the task can be accomplished. Call the experts at SERVPRO to the job done right. Here at SERVPRO we are, "Always here to help."
This young couple in New Haven, KY was getting ready to move into the home of their dreams. They spent countless hours laying floors, painting walls, and preparing for their future together. It was finally completed and everything was ready to move in; when suddenly a water disaster struck. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties quickly arrived on the scene. Unfortunately, due to a busted pipe from new plumbing lines, most of the flooring was lost. As you can see in the photo, the drywall and flooring had to be removed, to properly dry out this structure. Thanks to the superior equipment and excellent technicians, SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties was able to help these homeowners restore what was lost, and make it look like, "It never even happened."
This homeowner in Louisville, KY suffered a major loss when an electrical fire engulfed the attic and roof of their home. Notice in the photo that only the framing bones were left. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties has been working hard to help this homeowner rebuild all that was lost in this horrible fire. Although, a loss of this magnitude may take some time to rebuild, SERVPRO is making every effort to make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Fire Restoration Tips
*Limit movement in home to prevent soot particles from spreading on carpet and furniture.
*Place dry towels, blankets, or old linens in high traffic areas to prevent further damage.
*If there is no electric remove food from refrigerators and freezers to prevent odor.
*If it is winter and there is no heat pour RV Antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks, and tubs to prevent frozen pipes.
This home in Georgetown, KY suffered major damage from soot, when a fire sparked from a wire that was probably exposed due to an attic critter. The soot covered the walls, furniture, floors, and almost all of their contents. Notice in the photo how the interior upper walls are covered in soot and the floor in debris. When cleaning soot from a home there are many precautions that need to be implemented.
Preventing the Spread of Soot
Thankfully, SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties had fire restoration technicians on the scene, preventing any further damage to this homeowners belongings. Some basic tips they enforced during this job, saved this homeowner from a total loss. If you should need any assistance with fire restoration, give SERVPRO a call. Remember, "We are always here to help."
Dishwasher causes Water Damage in Mt. Washington, KY
Dishwasher causes major problems in Mt. Washington, KY
This homeowner in Mt. Washington, KY was facing several repairs, until SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counites arrived on the scene. Notice in the photo the Dehumidifier and Air Movers working hard to save the hard wood floors and island cabinet. Luckily, this homeowner had very minimal repairs due to the equipment placement and timing of the SERVPRO technicians.
Remember to Check Dark and Covered Spaces for Water Leaks
Underneath Cabinets and Sinks
Underneath Dishwashers and Washing Machines
Storage Closets
Basements
Crawl Spaces
Attics
Should you notice anything that needs attention, call the experts at SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Here at SERVPRO, "We are always here to help."
This homeowner in New Haven, KY woke up to a disaster when a pipe busted within their home. Notice in the picture the flooring had to be removed in order to dry out this structure. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties works hard to help homeowners save as much of the structural material as possible but, in this loss the flooring was to damaged. However, all is not lost, as you can see SERVPRO equipment throughout the room drying out the subfloor and drywall.
Strategies of Equipment Placement
It may appear in the photo that SERVPRO equipment has been placed randomly throughout the room, but that is not the case. The technicians go throughout the room with a moisture meter detecting the levels of moisture and determining the equipment needed in each area.
This homeowner in Louisville, KY rarely went into the guest room of their house. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties arrived quickly to the scene and began inspecting the home for Mold. Notice in the photo the leak from the ceiling destroyed the mattress and caused Mold growth. It is always important to randomly check the areas of your home that are not used often. If a water leak is found early, the chances of Mold growth are reduced greatly. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties wants everyone in our community to know that, "We are always here to help."
Tips for Mold Treatment and Prevention
Always fix water leaks.
Remove standing water under cooling coils or air handling units.
Replace any saturated material, such as insulation, carpet, and drywall.
Use Dehumidifiers.
Cigarette Improperly Disposed of in Louisville, KY
This tenant in Louisville, KY almost completely burned down their apartment when they disposed of a cigarette improperly. Take a look at the damage in this photo. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties was quick to arrive to the scene and took immediate action in the fire restoration process. Here at SERVPRO we follow strict guidelines to insure our customers the fastest service and best response possible.
Tips When Dealing with Fire Damage
Coat chrome faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly to prevent soot build-up.
Place towels or blankets on high traffic areas to prevent the spread of soot.
Do not clean any electrical equipment.
Do not try to wash paintings, walls, and carpet as improper cleaning can cause further damage.
These homeowners were extremely fortunate to have caught this fire before it spread throughout the whole house. Notice in the photo that the back corner of the house suffered the most damage. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked hard to restore this home back to its original beauty, provide customer care, and as always work with compassion. Remember here at SERVPRO, "We are always here to help."
Fire Damage Tips
Limit movement in home to prevent the spread of soot.
Coat faucets, trim, and appliances with petroleum jelly to prevent soot.
Do not shampoo carpets or furniture.
Do not send clothing to dry cleaners since improper cleaning may set in odor.
Faulty Wires cause extensive Fire damage in Mt. Washington, KY Home
House Fire caused by faulty wires in Mt. Washington, KY
This homeowner suffered a major loss when a faulty wire sparked a massive fire throughout their home. Notice in the photo how the roof was engulfed in flames and the homeowners possessions were left in ashes. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties understands the heartache of losing your home and possessions in devastating fires, such as this. We work hard to make every individual feel valuable, important, and cared for. Our fire technicians are IICRC certified and treat every customer as if they were their own family members. Our community is a big part of who we are, and we stand behind our work and commitments. Here at SERVPRO, we make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Mt. Washington, KY Floods due to torrential downpours.
Flooding in Mt. Washington, KY
This homeowner had a beautiful finished basement in Mt. Washington, KY. Carpet, Tile, and Vinyl Flooring were used throughout the area creating a very cozy environment. However, when torrential downpours and failing sump pumps team up, disaster occurs. Thankfully, SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties arrived quickly to the scene, lifting carpet, setting up equipment, and pulling up saturated vinyl. Notice in the photo below the Air Movers and Dehumidifier working hard to salvage the carpet in this area. SERVPRO works hard to restore and protect as many items as possible. Remember here at SERVPRO, "We are always here to help."
Tips for Water Damage Prevention
Shut off water source if possible.
If safe turn off circuit breakers.
Remove as much water as possible with towels and mops.
Prop up furniture, remove upholstery cushions, and use aluminum foil or wood blocks to separate from saturated carpet.
Remove art, electronics, and other valuable materials to a safe and dry place.
Heavy Rains Cause Flooding in Lebanon Junction, KY
Heavy Rains cause Flooding in Lebanon Junction, KY
Flooding in Lebanon Junction, KY
When this homeowner walked into their basement they were surprised to see their belongings floating in six inches of water. Notice in the picture how the water has flooded two rooms that connect. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties arrived quickly to the scene, pumping out water, salvaging their belongings, and preventing any further damage. This was the first flood that this homeowner had ever experienced and SERVPRO was happy to relieve the stress and bring this homeowner a peace of mind. We work hard to gain the loyalty of our customers and to make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Major Flood Zones
Costal areas, Rivers, and Lakes are the most susceptible areas for flooding. However, heavy rains can cause flooding in almost any area. It is important to have a plan in place incase of a water emergency. If you should need any assistance call SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counites for a name you can trust and work you can rely on.
This new homeowner in Louisville, KY was thrilled to buy an older home to renovate and restore back to its former glory. However, as the renovation begin it became clear that Mold was going to be a major issue. Take a look at this photo. Notice the Mold growth on the ceiling joist. As the ceiling and walls came down, more Mold began to be exposed. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counites quickly arrived on the scene to help this homeowner with the Mold Remediation process.
Mold Treatment Plan for Home in Louisville, KY
Cleaning the Floor Joist and Walls with Peroxide Wash.
Sealing the Salvageable Wood.
Running HEPA Air Scrubbers
Removing and Replacing all Non-Salvageable Material with New.
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties is out at the Mount Washington, KY Spring Festival today. We want to make sure and meet everyone in our community and share with them what SERVPRO can do for local businesses and homeowners. If you are out in our area today please stop by and meet some of your local SERVPRO Heroes.
Importance of Community
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties understands the importance of community involvement. We offer our support to all of our local businesses, police officers, firefighters, and residents. Here at SERVPRO, "We are always here to help."
Newly Finished Basement damaged by Rain Storms in Mt. Washington, KY.
Rain Storms in Mount Washington, KY Flood Basement
This homeowner in Mount Washington, KY had almost completed the structural repairs in their basement, when a surge of rain storms created major problems. Take a look at the picture, notice how it illustrates the fresh drywall and newly lain carpet, that had just been installed. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties quickly arrived on the scene; running equipment and lifting carpet to help this homeowner salvage as much as possible. Our company works hard to restore each and every home like it was our very own. With over 20 years of combined experience, you can trust SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties with your hard earned American Dream. We understand that the costs of maintaining a home and family can be overwhelming at times and that's why here at SERVPRO, we strive to keep the costs down by preserving what can be reused.
When selecting Carpet and Drywall for Basements
Always use Mold Resistant Drywall and Water Resistant Carpet in Basements.
Start with good material that does retain moisture easily.
Air Movers and Dehumidifier working hard to dry out Drywall and prevent Mold Growth.
Frozen Temperatures cause Pipe to burst in local Business Center
This Business Center owner in Elizabethtown, KY was shocked to find their building saturated with water. The pipe in one of the offices froze up releasing havoc throughout the building on a cold January morning. With the building under renovation most of the damage caused was structural, notice the flooring has been removed in the picture. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties reacted quickly with a master plan to salvage the new drywall, trim, and paint throughout the building. Here at SERVPRO we work hard to be the leading restoration company within our area. We also believe in working along side with the fellow members of our community to make a great company even greater. If you should need any assistance just give us a call. Remember here at SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties, "We are always here to help."
Tips to Prevent Pipes from Freezing
If water lines are located in the Garage keep door closed.
Open cabinet doors in the Kitchen, Bathroom, and other areas with pipes.
Let cold water drip from a faucet to prevent freezing.
Keep a comfortable temperature throughout the home or business day and night.
This Molded Doorway was discovered when a pipe busted and the flooring had to be removed.
Soggy Doorway in Lebanon Junction, KY.
Doorways are the grand entrance for every home and most homeowners take great pride in the first impression their guests will see. From beautiful stain glass to intricately carved wood, doorways are there to impress. However, this homeowner in Lebanon Junction, KY discovered a very undesirable entry way, when a busted pipe revealed a molded and rotted entrance. Notice in the picture how the rotted wood seems to hide under the door frame. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked hard to help this homeowner dry out and repair the flooring to make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Tips for Installing Flooring around Doorways.
Always make sure the thickness of the flooring is even to prevent any toe catches.
Use strips of wood or other material to prevent unleveled ground.
Use a jigsaw to make precise grooves when lining up entry ways.
Try to use a more water resistant material around entry ways that connect to the outside elements.
If you are someone you know need any assistance with Water & Fire Restoration, Cleaning, or Mold Remediation, just give us call.
Heavy Rains caused Flooding throughout this Home in Louisville, KY.
Flooded Living Room in Louisville, KY caused by Storm.
February of 2018, will be remembered by many Kentuckians as the month of heavy rains and flooding disasters.
The already saturated ground could not withstand the relentless rains that flooded the Bluegrass State in February of 2018. Many homeowners were dealing with flooded basements and failed sump pumps. Notice in the picture the glimmer of water standing atop this hardwood floor. This was the sight for many Kentuckians, some with as much as 4ft. of standing water in their basements. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties worked around the clock to help restore our community and help give homeowners a peace of mind. SERVPRO has strived to be the leading company that home and business owners turn to when dealing with disasters. If you own a home or business and are facing the loss of an unfortunate event, you need to call someone you can trust.
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties takes great pride in our work, we are open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. Just give us a call and we will make it look, "Like it never even happened."
Some Safety Precautions when Dealing with Flooded Areas.
Never enter a room with standing water where electrical cords, wires, outlets, breakers, or the possibility of shock could occur.
Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water.
Do not use T.V.'s or other appliances when standing on wet carpet, floors, or concrete.
If your ceiling is wet do not turn on fixtures or fans.
Here at SERVPRO we want to keep our community safe and beautiful. If you need to contact us just give us a call.
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties
10758 Hwy 44 E
Mount Washington, KY 40047
502-904-0710
Old House in Louisville, KY Full of Unwanted Surprises
The Rapid spread of Mold in the Woodwork of this Old House.
Keeping the Character of an Old House can be a Challenge.
When buying this Old Home in Louisville, KY dealing with a Mold Infestation, was probably not on the budget for this homeowner. However, as the renovation began, Mold transformed the once beautiful property into a nightmare. Nearly every wall, ceiling, door, and floor was covered with Mold Spores, turning this renovation into more of a demolition. Notice in the photo that even after the old walls were removed, Mold can still be seen throughout the wood work.
How to Treat and Prevent Mold.
Correct any Water leaks or standing Water.
Use an Antimicrobial Cleaner to sanitize and kill the Mold.
Mold loves moisture, avoid steam cleaning and other methods with moisture when cleaning duct work.
Use Dehumidifiers and Install good Ventilation Systems to avoid moisture.
Many studies have been done on the health concerns and risks caused by Mold. Be sure to make the proper contacts when dealing with Mold problems or concerns. SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties strives to be the leading Mold, Water, and Fire Restoration Company. If you have any concerns in the following areas just give us a call. "We are always here to help."
Excessive Rainfall causes flooding in a Louisville, KY Pediatrics Office.
Pediatrics Office Flooded in Louisville, KY.
3/13/2018
This Pediatrics Office in Louisville, KY, was among the many businesses affected during the 2018 February floods. The heavy rainfall that took place throughout the state of Kentucky caused wide spread flooding, effecting hundreds of families.
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties quickly arrived on the scene, immediately assessing the damage and implementing a game plan to restore the office. We understand the importance of keeping your doors open to the people you serve and maintaining a healthy community. That's why here at SERVPRO, we are open 365 days a week, 24 hours a day. We want all of our customers to know that here at SERVPRO, "We are always here to help."
A Few Tips to Protecting Your Home during Water Disasters.
Shut off the water source if possible and contact the proper services.
Remove as much excess water as possible with mopping and blotting.
Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet flooring.
Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
Use wooden clothespins to hold up furniture skirts from saturated flooring.
When a storm or water disaster strikes a commercial facility in Springfield, Bardstown, or Bullitt County, the concerns of the business owner are very different from that of a home owner. The old saying “time is money” is especially true when confronted with the reality that your business is under assault and being destroyed by storm damage. Fires, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, or broken water mains can cause serious damage to your Bullitt & Nelson County commercial facility. The reality that your business is slipping away can be overwhelming. When your livelihood is directly threatened by a storm disaster, call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties and we’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”
When Water Damage Happens To Your Business...
Fortunately, SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is the only name you need to know when water disasters happen. Our experts will use their years of experience to create a fast and comprehensive plan to help you get back to business as soon as possible.
We create a full estimate for all mitigation and repairs then keep you involved with timely updates throughout the restoration process. SERVPRO is a preferred service provider with most insurance companies in Central Indiana and we can work directly with them from start to finish. We understand that saving your property and reopening your business as quickly and safely as possible is especially important when you have a business to run and your employees count on you for their livelihood.
Help Is Just a Call Away When a Storm Disaster Occurs In Nelson and Bullitt County.
When facing a storm disaster, action must be taken now; call SERVPRO’s Disaster Response Team immediately, no matter what time of day or night. We have a live person to answer your call 24/7. Our emergency response dispatch will send highly trained and Certified Restoration Technicians to save the day. Just make one phone call to start the process of getting back into business.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties 502-904-0710
Time Is Money... Secure Your Structure From Secondary Damage
The longer a facility sits with water or fire damage, the more time and money it takes to be fully restored. One critical action to help minimize secondary damage is to make sure that the structure is properly secured from top to bottom. If needed, we can set up temporary fencing and board up exterior walls, entry-doors and tarp rooftops for full security to prevent further damage from the outside elements.
No Disaster Job In Springfield, Bardstown, or Bullitt County is Too Big For Us
For extreme disasters that require more manpower and equipment, we have a nationwide network of SERVPRO franchises to call on. We’ll be the first to arrive onsite and we can call our Disaster Recovery Teams to ramp up to fit any size disaster. We’ll get you reopened as fast and as safely as possible with the peace of mind that saving your business is our only business.
There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises with your Bardstown or Bullitt County business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need.
Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties, we’re faster to any size disaster. 502-904-0710
Whether there is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, or sleet and snow; all of these can cause property damage to your home or business. You can't control Mother Nature but you can be prepared so here are some tips to help you:
-Check for tree limbs and branches that might have fallen.
-Roofs, pipes and gutters should all be inspected and make sure they are in proper working order. Clear gutters from debris, a damming effect could cause roof damage or interior water problems. Downspouts should be facing away from the home or building.
-Clean your chimneys and exhaust systems from debris.
-Test your gas lines for leaks.
-Inspect your property for proper drainage.
-Protect pipes from freezing by allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If any pipes are under cabinets leave the cabinets open. Make sure exterior pipes are properly insulated.
-If there are any outdoor faucets, you might want to shut the water off.
-Make sure all exterior doors and windows have sufficient weather stripping.
Do you have an emergency plan for your business? Ask your SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties for a complementary emergency plan packet. A SERVPRO representative will help you find your main water shut off valve and go over emergency contacts and phone numbers in case of a fire or water emergency.
Call us. 502-904-0710
Commercial Fire & Water Loss - Emergency Ready Plan
Owning a commercial property is a big responsibility and can come with many issues. One of the most important things to keep in mind is protecting your investment. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties offers a free Emergency Ready Plan to help our commercial owners in Bardstown, Springfield, Mt. Washington, Shepherdsville, and Louisville areas.
The Emergency Ready Plan consists of the following:
A walk through of the property with your maintenance person and a SERVPRO Representative.
SERVPRO will document the sensitive areas, label water and gas shuts offs with either an Orange or White tag so they easily seen.
SERVPRO will include documentation, step-by-step written directions, and pictures of each shut off valve.
SERVPRO will include the contact names and telephone numbers for all of the utility companies and property personnel that would need to be notified in the event of an emergency on the property.
SERVPRO will take this information and place it into a nice binder for you to keep.
SERVPRO offers this service free of charge with no obligation simply because we care about the businesses in our city. SERVPRO wants every business in the city to have an Emergency Ready Plan so they are prepared in case of an event. The Emergency Ready plan can help you reduce the damage done to your property.
If this sounds like a great benefit for your company – call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to schedule yours today.
If your business has recently been affected with commercial water damage in Bardstown, Springfield, Mt. Washington, Shepherdsville, or the Hillview areas, you may be wondering what you can do to mitigate your damages. There is a critical period in which certain actions must be taken to preserve as much of your property as possible and to decrease any health risks when water damage has occurred in a commercial space.
Preparing a Space for Water Damage Restoration
Before you enter your commercial space or any flooded building, you will need to make sure the electrical power to the structure is shut off. You should also be aware that during a flooding event, small animals or reptiles tend to seek shelter inside of buildings. Be prepared to deal with the discovery of wild animals in your space.
Protect yourself from entering any flooded building by wearing an organic vapor respirator. You can purchase these at any local paint and building supply stores. You also want to have rubber gloves, protective clothing, and eye protection. The first thing you should do is ventilate the affected areas by opening the windows and placing fans where possible.
Unfortunately, there likely will be items that you need to throw away. Any items that are porous and have absorbed contaminated floodwater cannot be restored.
If your commercial space has drywall, mattresses, pillows, box springs, particle board, carpets or carpet pads, these will need to be discarded if they have become saturated. However, there is good news: If you have clothing or household fabrics that can be machine-washed, you may be able to salvage them. Use a laundromat to clean these items with a 10-minute soak at the minimum in hot water with detergent. The soap and normal wash should remove most of the contamination and any staining that is present. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties can also do the washing for you at our commercial cleaning facility.
Be aware that your commercial space will need a thorough professional inspection, cleaning and possibly restructuring. Water damaged walls and installations must be removed and repaired, and pockets of saturation should be exposed for drying and sanitizing. Always remember that mold growth could take a few days to appear as it thrives in a moist environment with organic-type materials such as paper or particle board and in temperatures that range between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep good airflow throughout the interior environment, and maintain moderate temperatures to decrease the risk of any mold growth. It is also important that you let your space dry out before any rebuilding occurs.
Services You Can Count On in Bullitt & North Nelson Counties.
You can depend on SERVPRO to provide reasonable prices for commercial damages and other services in the Bardstown, Bullitt County, and Louisville area. Our restoration services include cleanup after water damage, fire damage, and storm damage. We also assist with mold remediation, and we're qualified to provide cleaning and building services. Our trained and certified IICRC technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to begin your restoration. Whether you require cleanup after a commercial water damage or simply need a carpet cleaning, call us.
Black mold is one of the worst fears you might have as a homeowner. Toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) grows in common household features such as carpet, drywall, insulation, and sub-flooring. It grows when these household materials have been in contact with moisture. As it grows, it releases spores into the air. These spores can be harmful to humans.
Where to Test for Black Mold
Testing for mold is essential, and you should have a dwelling inspected for black mold before you buy it or sign a lease. If you suspect there may be black mold in your home, or you have never had your home tested, contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties for professional mold remediation services in the Bardstown, Springfield, and Bullitt County area. While many aspects of home-ownership can be handled in a D.I.Y. fashion, black mold is not something to be messed around with.
Carpet
Black mold loves to live on the carpet. Dust collects in carpet fibers and those same fibers trap the humidity and dampness that enables mold to grow. Carpets in below-ground levels are especially susceptible to mold as there is more humidity there.
Carpet mold is often not visible from the surface, except in severe cases, which makes testing for it necessary even if you don't see any evidence.
Air Conditioning and Heating Vents
Air conditioning and heating vents actually create ideal conditions for black mold to grow. Dual-purpose vents that both heat and cool your house raise that risk as they are in constant use.
When you have mold in your air vents, those spores are being circulated throughout your home. The sooner you can perform mold remediation procedures, the better. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties has a 24-hour mold emergency service hotline to quickly begin the process of cleaning your air vents.
Drywall
Mold is unfortunately common in drywall, as it traps humidity. This is especially common as the seasons change from winter into spring. Because of the nature of it, mold in drywall is rarely visible except in severe cases. For this reason, it's imperative to have a potential home be tested for mold in the walls before you sign a lease or put down a deposit.
If you suspect mold damage, call the specialists of SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties at 502-904-0710.
Snow isn’t the only thing leaving its mark on our homes this time of year. It may not be winter quite yet in Bardstown and Springfield, but storms are still whipping through cities causing power outages and home damage. According to the National Storm Damage Center (NSDC), damage caused by trees during severe weather, account for over $1 billion in property damage. Broken limbs or trees can cause mass amounts of damage to your property if they make contact. Such damage can be done to roofing, siding, windows and even structure to the home, causing lots of expensive repairs. Unfortunately there is no way to stop the unpredictable weather, but there are ways to prevent damage from happening to your home.
Assessing your tree
The National Storm Damage Center insists on trying to keep trees healthy and surviving as long as they’re not posing an immediate threat, but how do we know if the tree is ready to be taken down or not? There are different ways that a tree can be assessed to give you a better answer to that question.
· Broken limbs – the larger amount of large limbs that are broken on a tree, the less likely it is to survive or recover from storm damage. This tree is unfortunately probably ready to be taken down.
· Amount of limbs broken – A tree showing more than 50% of it’s limbs broken or damaged means that it will most likely have a difficult time producing leaves in the upcoming season, therefor making it harder for it to survive.
· Leader branch – Is the upward-trending branch at the top of the tree broken? Without this branch being intact, it is likely that the tree’s growth will be stunted, making it less likely to survive.
· Location – Last, but not least is location. Saving trees is important for our environment, but keeping lives safe is obviously more important to us. The biggest decision on whether to keep a tree in your yard or not is purely the location of the tree. Is it in a location that could cause damage or injury to your home, car or family if it were to break? If so, it is better to be safe than sorry and get it removed before a storm comes through.
If you have storm damage from wind, rain, or snow, call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties! 502-904-0710
Follow these safety tips for fire prevention in your home.
FURNACE HEATING It’s important that you have your furnace inspected to ensure that it is in good working condition.
• Be sure all furnace controls and emergency shutoffs are in proper working condition.
• Leave furnace repairs to qualified specialists. Do not attempt repairs yourself unless you are qualified.
• Inspect the walls and ceiling near the furnace and along the chimney line. If the wall is hot or discolored, additional pipe insulation or clearance may be required.
• Check the flue pipe and pipe seams. Are they well supported, free of holes, and cracks? Soot along or around seams may be an indicator of a leak.
• Is the chimney solid, with cracks or loose bricks? All unused flue openings should be sealed with solid masonry.
• Keep trash and other combustibles away from the heating system. OTHER FIRE SAFETY TIPS
• Never discard hot ashes inside or near the home. Place them in a metal container outside and well away from the house.
• Never use a range or an oven as a supplemental heating device. Not only is it a safety hazard, it can be a source of potentially toxic fumes.
• If you use an electric heater, be sure not to overload the circuit. Only use extension cords which have the necessary rating to carry the amp load. TIP: Choose an extension cord the same size or larger than the appliance electrical cord.
•Avoid using electrical space heaters in bathrooms, or other areas where they may come in contact with water.
•Frozen water pipes? Never try to thaw them with a blow torch or other open flame, (otherwise the pipe could conduct the heat and ignite the wall structure inside the wall space). Use hot water or a UL labeled device such as a hand held dryer for thawing.
•If windows are used as emergency exits in your home, practice using them in the event fire should strike. Be sure that all the windows open easily. Home escape ladders are recommended.
•If there is a fire hydrant near your home you can assist the fire department by keeping the hydrant clear of snow so in the event it is needed, it can be located. FINALLY . . .
•Be sure every level of your home has a working smoke alarm, and be sure to check and clean it on a monthly basis.
•Plan and practice a home escape plan with your family.
•Contact your local fire department for advice if you have a question on Home Fire Safety.
Fire Damage In Your Home Or Business? Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502-904-0710
Have you ever come across a foul, musky smell in your home or business and had no idea where it was coming from? It's possible this odor could be because of water damage, and water that is not dried up in your home aids mold growth. Mold has the potential to be dangerous to your health, so if your home has a musky smell, call the professionals of SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to clean it up! Our crew has vast experience dealing with mold remediation, and we are happy to help restore any type of mold infestation in your home or business. You should always leave it to the specialists if you find mold in your home. SERVPRO will completely eliminate the mold and make it look "Like it never even happened." Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties for mold remediation. 502-904-0710
Why Professionals Should Clean Smoke Damage From A Fire From Your Commercial Property
When the firefighters leave, it may seem like the danger has passed and the building is safe from further destruction, but without professionals to help clean the smoke damage, the building will never return to normal. While the principles behind fire restoration are fairly simple, it requires a lot of experience and manpower to perform adequately, and this means that it shouldn’t be attempted by a homeowner on his or her own. While fire is always the immediate danger, once it is gone, what it leaves behind will continue to affect the house. Ash and smoke, if left unhindered, will cause extensive corrosion, etching and discoloration, not to mention lingering powerful odors. Professionals that clean fire and smoke damage can stop this before it becomes a major problem, assuming they are contacted soon enough. There are many companies out there that advertise their ability to restore areas affected by fire, but only those with proper training and certification should be considered. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the main oversight agency in this industry. The IICRC requires its registrants to take extensive coursework before earning their certification. This is a symbol of excellence, and those that uphold the standards that have been set can be contacted through the IICRC.
These professionals can clean smoke damage and restore items affected by a fire, but they must be brought to the site as soon as possible to halt the ongoing issues that ash residue can cause. The first thing that ash does to the home is discolor most surfaces. Anything that is made of plastic or was close to the fire will start discoloring within minutes, and within several hours, fiberglass and finishes on appliances will begin to yellow. Metals may also tarnish. After a few days pass, the ash will cause walls to discolor permanently, along with clothing and upholstery. Wood and vinyl will need to be refinished or replaced, and metal will start corroding. If a professional isn’t hired to clean smoke and fire damage, the costs for restoration will skyrocket after a few weeks. Metals may need to be replaced, carpet will permanently discolor and glass may be severely etched, which will necessitate replacement. It will also become apparent that the odors caused by the disaster may still be present and intense enough to be distracting. Because ash is acidic, the longer it takes to hire experts, the more destruction it will cause.
The first thing a trained, certified, professional company will do when on site is to identify all affected materials and the source of any odors. The only way to properly clean smoke and fire damage is to be extremely thorough. Ash residue is easily disturbed and can spread through the building with ease, causing nearly everything to need restoration. The experts will identify what can and cannot be salvaged, and will remove any built-up ash residue that is coating surfaces. Over time, ash builds up in layers, and may eventually form into a lacquer-like consistency. Once this is done, the restorers will locate the source of the odor, and treat it with specialized detergents that are formulated for neutralizing this kind of odor. Once materials are treated, they may be sealed off to prevent any further odor from permeating the air in the future. This entire process is very detailed, and hiring a professional that can be trusted to do the job right is imperative.
If you have fire damage on your commercial property, call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties 502-904-0710.
Water damage is a scary thing, especially since often times we don't even know that there is water damage happening until long after the fact. Take, for example, water damage caused by a leaky refrigerator. Because the fridge blocks your view of the wall and floor behind the unit, you won't notice water damage is occurring unless the leak creates a visible puddle.
What can we do about refrigerator water damage? We will walk you through what to expect when facing water damage caused by your fridge, how to repair it, and whether or not insurance will cover the costs.
How Long Before My Fridge Causes Water Damage?
Refrigerator water damage doesn't always happen suddenly. Often times what ends up happening is the plastic water line behind the refrigerator will crack or weaken, causing a slow leak. Over the years, this leak drips water down to the floor and wall beneath the fridge, causing slow but progressive refrigerator water damage.
Other common causes of fridge water damage are ice maker leaks and condensation. Unfortunately, even just a little bit of added moisture from condensation buildup can spell disaster for your walls and floors. That's the scary thing about water damage it is silent and happens over long periods of time.
How to Repair Water Damage from a Refrigerator
The repairs will depend highly on the extent of the water damages. If the water has only recently been there, chances are that you can mop it up and air out the surfaces. Once dry, flooring should return to normal. You will want to make sure that the walls are adequately dried as well, since this will prevent mold growth.
If your fridge has caused water damages over a long period of time, however, you will likely need to have the flooring and drywall completely ripped out and replaced. This is where things get costly. Because mold is also a serious possibility, we recommend that you leave the job of assessing and repairing the damages to a professional.
Preventing Fridge Water Damage
One clear way to prevent fridge water damage is to regularly check and maintain your fridge. First, try to clear away any dust and debris from behind the unit, then check for hard water buildup in the water line. You might even want to consider upgrading the plastic water lines to a braided steel supply line.
We also recommend purchasing a battery operated water alarm. This water alarm can be placed behind the refrigerator, out of sight. While you're at it, you can place one beneath your kitchen sink and behind the dishwasher, too. If the alarm comes into contact with water, it will let off an alarm. This will help prevent water from sitting unseen for too long, which causes permanent water damages.
Will Insurance Cover Refrigerator Water Damage?
Unfortunately, slow leaks (like ones caused by a toilet, ice maker, freezer, or fridge) are NOT covered by a typical homeowner's insurance policy. Your insurance will usually cover things like damage caused by a sudden accidental leak or other malfunctions, and not water damages that are determined to be due to negligence. For instance, water damages caused by a burst pipe would likely be covered but repairing the pipe itself would not be. Your best bet when it comes to refrigerator water damage is to use the preventative tips above, and to regularly check and maintain your fridge.
Water Damage due to a leaky Fridge? Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist.
The interior of a person’s home is not the only place that is vulnerable to water damage. Garages, for example, often sustain just as much, if not more damage than a homeowner’s basement, living room, or kitchen. In fact, many homeowners use their garages for storing boxes of personal items and family heirlooms that would be difficult, if not impossible to replace. To ensure that your home, including your garage, sustains as little damage as possible in the event of a flood or leak, please contact an experienced water damage repair restoration contractor who can mitigate the damage and immediately begin the restoration process.
Preventive Tips
It is in a homeowner’s best interest to take certain steps to avoid water damage to their home and property. For instance, to prevent your garage from flooding, you may want to consider:
Placing weatherstripping, such as self-adhesive tape or rubber stripping, around your garage door to help maintain the temperature in your garage and prevent water from seeping under the door. Weatherstripping needs to be replaced regularly, so make sure to check yours for cracks or other signs of deterioration.
Checking for foundational cracks or other evidence of damage. Even minor cracks can allow water to seep into a garage and from the garage into the home itself. If you find any cracks, be sure to seal them with a vinyl concrete patch or waterproof paint. Large problems will need to be fixed by a professional.
Improving drainage in the area around your home by installing drains in front of your garage or along the driveway. This can be instrumental in transporting water away from your foundation.
Placing sandbags and other flood barriers around your property. These barriers expand when they come into contact with water and can help low-level flooding from spreading into your garage and home.
In some cases, no amount of preventive measures can save a garage from being flooded. In these cases, it may be in your best interest to install a flood vent, which will allow flood-water to flow through the garage itself. While this will help protect the interior of your home, it will also allow the garage to flood, which can result in a significant amount of damage. If you want to take this route, be sure to remove any important and valuable items from your garage and contact a professional who can assess and repair the damage.
Water damage can have devastating consequences for homeowners who may have to replace all of their possessions. However, the earlier a person addresses a flood by seeking professional aid, the less damage his or her property is likely to suffer. To speak with a member of our dedicated restoration team, please contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties. 502-904-0710
The following is provided by The National Fire Protection Association.
In a fire, seconds count. Seconds can mean the difference between residents of our community escaping safely from a fire or having their lives end in tragedy.
That’s why this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme: “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out!” is so important. It reinforces why everyone needs to have an escape plan. Here’s this year’s key campaign messages:
Draw a map of your home by using our grid in English (PDF) or Spanish (PDF) with all members of your household, marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.
Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today to speak to a Fire Restoration Specialist. 502-904-0710
Follow these fireplace safety tips to prevent home fire damage.
Fall has officially started, and before you know it, you will have to light up the fireplace to combat the cold, windy temperatures of the outdoors. But before your whole family sits in front of the fire, it is crucial you make sure it is safe and secure. With the luxury and warmth your fireplace brings, also comes the danger of fire and smoke damage to your home. There are a few steps you can follow to ensure your wood or gas burning fireplace is safe to use.
Start With The Cap
To start your safety inspection of your fireplace, you have to go outside of your home to your chimney. Make sure the cap that is on top of your chimney is in good condition, and there is nothing around it such as a bird’s nest or debris. The cap is an essential piece to your chimney because it prevents rain, snow, or wildlife from getting into your home. It also keeps hot embers emitting from your fireplace from getting onto your roofing. Your cap needs to be clear so smoke can escape properly from your home.
Check The Damper
After checking the chimney from the outside, go inside your home and inspect your the bottom of your chimney connected to your fireplace. With a flashlight, check if the damper in your chimney opens, closes, and seals properly. It is critical that your damper seals well because if not, you will a lose a great amount of heat from your home when your fireplace isn’t in use. While your damper is open, check the flue for any combustible objects such as animal nests. The flue needs to be completely clear, so smoke doesn’t come back into your home and cause unnecessary damage.
Don’t Ignore Your Gas-Burning Fireplace
Although gas fireplaces are low-maintenance, you still need to check some elements occasionally. Inspect the glass doors for any cracks or latch issues and test the igniter for any malfunctions.
Smoke or Fire Damage In Your Home? Contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502-904-0710
A slab leak is one of the biggest headaches any homeowner can experience. Not only are they costly and inconvenient to repair, they can be dangerous if left unresolved. By keeping your eye out for these 10 signs of a slab leak, you can catch this issue before it escalates into a major problem.
What is a Slab Leak?
Every house is built on top of a foundation, which is usually made of concrete and steel. This foundation, also called a ‘slab’, bears the weight of the house and provides the entire structure stability. Water pipes which provide water to the home are usually located below the slab.
A slab leak occurs when one or more of the pipes below the foundation leak. This is a serious plumbing emergency that leads to short and long-term problems.
Common causes of slab leaks include:
Shifting ground: Houses naturally settle over time. In some case, the weight of the house can lead to changes in how the ground is situated, leading to pipe leaks.
Improperly wrapped pipes: Pipes beneath the foundation are wrapped in order to prevent friction between the metal of the pipes and the concrete slab. Sometimes, pipes are not wrapped well, slowly leading to worn spots and leaks.
Electrolysis: Water pipes that are made of copper can be vulnerable to electrolysis, a natural chemical reaction that occurs when copper reacts with minerals in certain types of soil.
10 Signs of a Slab Leak
Now that you know why slab leaks are significant and how they’re caused, let’s look at the top 10 signs of a slab leak.
Cracks in the walls have formed.
Cracks in the floors have formed.
You have noticed a significant increase to the water bill even though you haven’t changed your habits
The carpet on the bottom floor is wet to the touch. In basements, you may notice a wet spot on concrete or warped flooring.
Tubs, toilets, showers, or sinks have experienced a stoppage or blockage.
You notice hot spots on the floor or in the yard. These are, as the name suggests, areas on the ground which are warm to the touch and indicate a leaking hot water pipe.
Mold and mildew forms on the walls without an apparent cause.
A strange odor that cannot be traced is present.
You’ve noticed a significant decrease in normal water pressure.
Your water meter dial is moving even after you have made sure that no sources of water, such as sinks, washing machines, toilets, or showers, are running.
Why are Slab Leaks Dangerous?
Slab leaks are dangerous for several reasons. Getting the leak repaired as soon as possible can help avoid long-term issues.
Water leaks lead to mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew doesn’t usually stay relegated to one area; spores spread and take hold in other parts of the house.
Water erosion can lead to a weakened foundation, which in turn can cause structural problems in the home.
Water erosion can also lead to the foundation itself shifting. This is a very serious problem that can lead to collapse.
Slab leaks can cause damage to a home significant enough to make a home unsafe and unlivable until the issues have been repaired.
What to Do if You Have a Slab Leak
A slab leak is a plumbing emergency, so it’s important to act quickly if you notice any of the 10 signs of a slab leak as listed above.
First, shut off the water to your home. This will help prevent further damage to the home’s foundation.
Water causes damage within minutes of exposure. Don’t let a slab leak ruin your home. Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502-904-0710
How to Protect Yourself Against Electrical Hazards After a Disaster
After a natural disaster, you must take extreme care to avoid electrical hazards in your home, as well as elsewhere. Here’s how to protect yourself, your family and others:
NEVER touch a fallen power line. Report it to the power company.
During cleanup and other activities, avoid contact with overhead power lines.
If downed power lines are in standing water, do not drive through it. Call, or ask someone else to call, the emergency services and the local utility company.
If electrical equipment and electricalcircuits are wet, or in or near water, switch the power off at the fuse on the service panel or the main breaker. Don’t walk in standing water to access the power switch; call an electrician to do it.
Never switch the power on or off, or use an electrical appliance or tool, while standing in water. Don’t switch the power back on until all electrical equipment has been checked by an electrician.
If you see sparks or frayed wiring when power is restored, or if there’s a burning smell but no visible fire, shut off the system at the main breaker immediately.
Ask an electrician if it’s okay to use a power generator because, if the generator is online when service is restored, it could become a fire hazard and endanger the lives of the restoration workers.
At SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties, we are a team of restoration, cleaning and remodeling professionals who offer disaster repair & cleaning for residential and commercial properties. We guarantee fast emergency response and the latest technology. Please contact us for more information.502-904-0710
Emergency Water Removal: A Checklist for Quick ActionWhen water damage strikes, it’s important to act fast and to contact a professional company to help with restoration and repairs. At SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties, we are experienced with emergency Water Removal and want to help you recover fast.
Water Damage Emergency Checklist
When facing a water damage emergency, use this handy checklist to stay calm and take quick action until help arrives.
Determine if it is safe to stay where you are: in water emergency situations, there can be a number of hazards including electricity.
Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties so that we can send a team right away.
Watch out for slippery areas that could cause you to fall.
Begin mopping up excess water where possible.
Pick up wet books, newspapers, magazines, etc.
Pick up wet fabrics and start hanging them. Beware, wet fabric items are much heavier when wet!
Rescue easy to reach artwork, valuables, and personal items and put them in a safe, dry space.
Gather any loose items from the floor, so that they can dry and not add additional tripping hazards.
Do NOT use any electrical items while the house is still wet.
Do NOT attempt to use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water.
Stay calm, and wait for our technicians to arrive and help you with your water removal, inspection, and restoration plan.
Our team has years of experience helping homeowners recover after a flood. We know exactly how to proceed in order to ensure that you get the best possible results. Our goal is to remove water, save your property, and help you make repairs after the damages. We also want to ensure that you are left with a clean space free of lingering mold issues.
Water Damage In Your Home Or Business? Contact the professionals here at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502-904-0710
The Three Keys to a Successful Water Cleanup Project
Flood damage restoration experts know that every step in the water cleanup project is critical: the analysis, setup, drying, monitoring, and reevaluation. Reevaluation is the final step in the water remediation process, when the project leader determines if the affected areas are restored to their preloss state. This important final step is where the final decision is made, and the water damage is finally eliminated.
There are three major factors or criteria for determining whether or not the area is “dry” and the water contamination is no longer present. All three of these conditions must absolutely be met before a water damage professional will consider the water cleanup effort accomplished.
Water damaged areas must be returned to a preloss state in order for the water cleanup process to be completed.
Building Materials are at their Equilibrium Moisture Content
“Equilibrium moisture content” is the point at which the building material is no longer saturated, gaining, or losing any moisture, and is a function of both temperature and the humidity of the surrounding air.
Why is this so Important?
Ensuring the building materials are at their equilibrium moisture content is essential because once this point is reached, the water damaged area will no longer support the growth of mold or mildew.
Interior Ambient Room Conditions are Considered “Normal”
Ambient room conditions must be returned to a normal, stable, preloss state in order for the water damage reevaluation process to be completed. This is the primary goal of most water cleanup projects and the hope of any client: for things to be exactly as they were before the flooding event. Ambient room conditions are also a function of temperature and relative humidity, with 50% RH to 70 degrees Fahrenheit considered normal and common for the Kentucky area.
Why is this so Important?
Without normal and stable ambient room conditions, the affected area may not fully recover from the water damage, which can lead to the growth of fungal organisms and a hazardous environment.
Affected Areas can Achieve Stability without the Further Use of Drying Equipment
Before any drying equipment can be removed, it must be determined that the water damage must no longer poses a threat because the room is stabilized and able to reach equilibrium without the further aid of the equipment. This is also considered a “preloss state,” because the interior conditions are healthy and self-regulating, just like they were before the water cleanup project began.
Why is this so Important?
If the room cannot achieve stability on its own, the equipment must remain with continued support and monitoring, meaning the water cleanup process is not complete. If the equipment is removed prematurely, the room could undergo further damage trying to reach equilibrium.
Water Damage In Your Home Or Business? Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502-904-0710
Have you ever encountered a situation where you suspect there is something weird going on inside your wall or ceiling? Perhaps a leak within the structure or you suspect there is a cold draft coming in from somewhere but you just cant seem to pinpoint it?
Well with the use of the latest technology, we are now able to identify these problem areas and start seeing the invisible.
This is done through the use of thermal imaging, at one point this technology was very expensive and reserved only for military and government applications. However as this technology progresses it becomes more affordable to apply it to other new industries, in this case the property restoration industry.
For property restoration, some of the best uses of thermal imaging technology include:
Pin-point moisture intrusion such as leaks within walls and ceilings, avoiding the need to cutting costly inspection holes.
Identify cold and hot spots, finding areas of missing insulation which could lead to drafts and energy loss.
Identify maintenance issues or potential dangers such as electrical overheating of components.
Assess the efficiency of HVAC systems, finding any areas of air leaks.
Identify structural defects
Identify clogs in piping
Note: thermal imagining readings can be attained without damaging the property, no pins or probes are required therefore there will be no sign of damage to your property.
Also, thermal imaging will also work in areas of total darkness as it is operating on heat differentials it does not need any visible light to operate. This is specially handy when inspecting areas such as attics, crawlspaces, or there is simply no power/lighting available in the property.
When it comes down to it, having thermal imaging tools is a must for property restoration companies and it is no wonder why leading restoration companies have adopted this technology. The ability to inspect, identify, record, and report on property issues has made it a great business tool to better serve and inform clients.
Suspect Water Damage In Your Home Or Business? Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to speak to a Mitigation Specialist today. 502-904-0710
Water damage is the product of an in-home flood or a leak. Fortunately, there are easy ways to determine if you have water damage.
You Have Mold
Mold loves water. If you see mold anywhere around your home, then it’s likely you have water damage. If you notice mold on your wall, in a crevice in your basement, or on your vinyl siding, then you should contact a professional immediately.
You Smell Mildew
Mildew is the musky smell that’s associated with mold. It’s a stench that’s undeniable. Unfortunately, if you smell mildew in parts of your home, it could be due to the fact that you have water damage.
You See Warped Wood
If you are like many homeowners who choose to install hardwood flooring, then warped wood may be a sign that you have water damage. In fact, if your wood warps, then you may have significant water damage in your home. Water and wood simply don't mix. Over time, water can make the panels in your flooring split and warp.
You See Water Stains on Your Ceiling
Another telltale sign you have water damage is brown, circular stains on your ceiling. These stains may be the result of water leaking into your home due to a roof leak. If you notice these stains, you must take action immediately. Without fixing your roof, you could make matters worse.
You Have Sagging Paint On Your Wall
Finally, if you notice that you have sagging paint or wallpaper on your wall, then it’s possible you have water damage. Sagging paint and wallpaper is common when you have water damage due to pipes leaking in your wall. When you notice this, your best option is to contact a local plumber immediately.
If you notice any of these signs, remember, hope isn’t lost. Your best resource to help you maintain your home is your local plumber.
If you have water damage and need repairs, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties 502-904-0710.
Attics and water damages go hand-in-hand. Your attic is one of the main places where water damages and mold will occur. Your attic is one of the places you do not visit often. You go up to your attic when you need something. It is important to check your attic regularly for leaks.
Some houses have water heaters in their attics. Water heaters are known to leak. Attics are also what takes the brunt of storms, along with your roof. If you see water stains on your ceiling, it is highly likely you have a leak in your attic.
Disaster Cleanup Services has some information to help you keep your attic water free.
Check Your Attic Regularly
It is important to check your attic as often as your check the rest of your home. Your attic could be holding water, which will cause your ceiling to leak, as well as cause mold damages.
Check your Roofing After Severe Weather
After a severe storm or heavy winds, it is crucial to check your roofing and ensure it is still intact. A missing shingle could cause water damages to your attic, which will eventually cause mold and major water damages.
Check for Leaks in your Attic
When in your attic, give it a once-over to make sure it doesn’t have any leaks or small holes that could allow water inside.
Make Sure Your Water Heater is Working Properly
If your water heater is old or isn’t functioning as well as it should, you should have it checked by a professional. If your water heater leaks, you will end up with a flooded home, and possible major water damages.
Above are a few simple ways to protect your home from water damages and mold. If you do have water damages or mold, give a SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties a call immediately. The longer you wait, the more the water will cause damage. 502-904-0710
Water can enter your home in many ways and end up damaging the foundation. To fight back against water intrusion, take preventative measures both on your home’s interior and exterior. Here are essential tips to safeguard your home’s exterior from water:
Roof
Check your roof to ensure the shingles, flashings or tiles aren’t missing, broken, cracked, curled or damaged in other ways.
Make sure the vents, flues, chimneys, air conditioners, and evaporative coolers are properly installed and in good shape.
Check for leaks around rooftop air-conditioning units, vents for exhaust or plumbing, or other specialized equipment.
Cut tree limbs that hang above your roof so they don’t cling to shingles and trap moisture. Leaves or twigs can also clog your gutters.
Gutters and Downspouts
Ensure these are clean, free from debris, and in good condition so that water can flow freely.
Install metal screens to prevent leaves, twigs, silt and other debris from clogging the gutters and drainage holes.
Ensure downspouts direct water at least five feet away from your home’s foundation. Install downspout extensions if needed.
Doors and Windows
Check for leaks near the corners of your doors and windows. Signs of leaks include peeling paint, paint discoloration or swollen frame.
Protect exterior doors and windows from the sun, rain, and snow by installing overhangs above them.
Close your doors and windows to check for a tight fit. Look for cracks between the sash and frame of your windows.
Repair or replace damaged flashing or weather-stripping around windows.
Walls
Check and repair cracked or broken siding boards, bricks, stone or other masonry, as well as structural sheathing.
Seal any openings from wiring, plumbing, phone, cable, and heating and air conditioning lines with foam or caulk. Repair any damaged or unpainted wood surrounding these openings.
Check for signs of termite activity on the walls and the wooden structures around your foundation. Termites can eat wood, plaster, and even metal siding.
Ensure that the exhaust vent doors properly open and close.
Remove any shrubs and other landscaping features from along the walls.
When irrigating the garden, avoid directing water towards the house to prevent excessive water near the foundation.
Keeping your home safe from water damage from the inside is also critical. For professional water damage repair or mold removal service, contact your local SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties at 502-904-0710
TOP 5 MYTHS ABOUT WATER DAMAGE AND FACTS TO BACK IT UP
Water damage is a common problem. Most homes will have water damage at some point. There are a lot of myths about water damage.
Myth: Insurance Will not pay for Water Damage
Fact: In most cases, home insurance and renters insurance will pay for water damage. However, every company is different. Make sure that you ask your insurance provider if they will pay for water damage.
Myth: You can Take Care of Water Damage Yourself
Fact: You should always call a professional if your home has water damage. If water damage is not handled properly, then mold can develop. You may also end up spending more money in the long run if you do not get water damage repaired by a professional.
Myth: Water Removal can Wait
Fact: You do not want to wait. The longer you wait, the more likely your home is to develop mold. The water may also damage your floor and possessions.
Myth: Water Damage is not There if you Cannot see It
Fact: You may not be able to see the water damage. The water may in the ceiling or walls. A professional will be able to find the hidden water.
Myth: Water Removal is the Only Thing That is Necessary
Fact: Water removal is the first step. However, there are several other things that need to be done after all of the water is removed. The professional will have to sanitize and disinfect the area. They will also have to apply an anti-fungicide to the area in order to prevent mold from growing.
Water Damage In Your Home? Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties at 502-904-0710
Does your home reek of tobacco smoke? Here are tips on how to remove the odor
It’s one thing to bring home smoke odor on your clothes and in your hair after a night of partying in Bardstown or Shepherdsville, but when that smell invades your home thanks to inconsiderate guests and their furtive smoking breaks, you must act quickly once they’re gone. Unfortunately, that smoky odor will permeate the fabrics in your home and will hold onto that odor, leaving you to smell it for days and weeks later.
You may not be able to easily remove all of the fabric from your home – particularly furniture, like a large sofa – but it’s very important to move all fabric items to an area unaffected by smoke, no matter how inconvenient. These items can include any decorative pillows, bedding, blankets, and especially curtains and drapes. If you have a washing machine that can handle large loads you should be able to run all of these items through a cold wash cycle with two (2) cups of vinegar added to the load.
Be sure to not use high heat to dry these items. The heat appears to reactivate the smoky smell, setting it permanently into the fabric. Instead, use a low heat or fluff cycle; if you can, line dry the items in the sun, which will be even more effective in removing the odor. And any light breeze along with the sunshine will be a bonus.
If you have a large, bulky item like a comforter, you may need to take it to your local dry cleaner. Put all of the smelly items into a trash bag and bring them to the cleaners; be sure to inform them that you require help in removing smoke odor. They can then use all of the professional techniques in their arsenal to banish the smoky smell. You may also want to include delicate items like curtains and window treatments. Window treatments can be expensive, so you don’t want to risk ruining them in your washing machine.
Once all of the items are washed and rid of the smoke odor, you don’t want to start the process all over again by returning them to a smoky home. Instead, put all of those clean items into fresh trash bags and store them in your garage or other area unaffected by smoky odor. You can return these items to their rightful locations once you have removed the odor from the home itself.
Remember that time is of the essence and these steps must be completed rather quickly. If you do one step without doing the others, the odor will simply redistribute itself around the home. If multiple rooms are affected, you’ll have to work on one room at a time. Once a room has been cleared of smoke, be sure to seal off the clean room as best you can. You don’t want smoky odor traveling to other areas – particularly an area you’ve just cleaned.
If you ever need help removingtobacco odors from the home, or need help mitigating a fire damage be sure to contact us as soon as possible. Dealing with carcinogens is never something that should be shrugged off as not a big deal. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties prides itself on being a qualified home restoration company.
Crawl spaces are prone to mold growth due to the high levels of moisture and humidity in these areas. Some of the most common causes of increased levels of humidity in the crawl space include water leaks, damaged insulation, and inadequate ventilation. To get rid of a mold problem in the crawl space, you have to control the moisture and humidity levels. Here are some tips to help you do so:
Check for water leaks in the foundation walls and crawl space ceiling — make sure there are no cracks that allow water to leak inside the crawl space. While checking for cracks, be sure to also inspect the HVAC ducts and plumbing components for leaks.
Ensure that the gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation. Water that flows toward your house could enter your crawl space and basement.
Make sure your crawl space is properly ventilated — for every 150 square feet of crawl space area, there should be 1 square foot of ventilation. However, consult a professional to determine if you should keep the crawl space vents closed and, if so, find other ways to control the humidity in the crawl space.
Use plastic sheeting covers to insulate/encapsulate the crawl space floor and foundation walls. Vapor barriers like plastic sheeting covers trap the moisture that is evaporating from the soil and walls.
If your crawl space is already insulated, inspect the insulation once or twice a year. Make sure the insulation is not missing or sagging, which indicates that there could be a water problem.
Make sure dryer vents always discharge to the outside and not into the crawl space, attic or other area of the house. If they don’t, this can lead to a major increase in humidity.
Follow the above tips and the relative humidity in your crawl space should reach the desired level of 30 to 50 percent. Mold will easily grow if the humidity is above 70 percent. For Mold Remediation and Water Damage repair, contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties. 502-904-0710
One simple action, closing your bedroom door, could save your life.
Tests by UL’s Firefighter Safety Research Institute found that in the event of a fire rooms with an open door showed temperatures over 1,000°F, while a room with a closed door had temperatures at only 100°F. Research also showed that a closed door kept room conditions survivable longer than an open door.
“If you can get out of a burning structure, get out,” explains Steve Kerber, FSRI’s Research Director. “If you can’t, put a closed door between you and the fire to buy yourself valuable time.”
UL states that four decades ago, victims had an average of 17 minutes to escape a burning home after the activation of a smoke alarm. Today, thattime has dropped to 3 minutes or less. Homes incorporating more open layouts and lightweight construction materials, and new materials in furnishings, allow fires to spread much quicker.
A closed door gives a layer of protection between you and a fire, which is especially important at night when the household is sleeping. A closed door also helps limit oxygen flow, which may help prevent a fire from growing. When escaping a burning structure, closing the door behind you can help limit property damage.
A reminder from Prevention 1st: In addition to closing your door, make sure you also install and test smoke alarms. Having a working smoke alarm cuts your risk of dying in a fire in half.
What Should Homeowners Consider After a Wood Floor is Flooded?
In the event of a flooded hardwood floor, you should immediately drain the excess water, assess and document the damages, clear the flooded area, clean the dirt and dry the floor using air blowing equipment and dehumidifiers. At the end of this process, if the floor shows signs of cupping and crowning, consult SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to help you get the floor back in shape.
Successful restoration of flooded hardwood depends on factors such as response time, type of wood, amount of moisture and the degree of water damage already present. In any case, consider hiring a professional disaster restoration company that can adapt to the situation and provide specialized equipment for efficient drying. While waiting for the SERVPRO technicians to arrive at your home, here’s what you can do:
Stop the flow of water if the flooding occurred due to a burst pipe, washing machine failure or water heater failure.
Turn off the power to the affected room until the water has been removed.
Assess the damages before you begin the restoration in order to determine whether to clean up or replace the floor. Take photos, list damaged items and show them to your insurance company.
Remove any items (carpet, furniture, etc.) from the floor and take them to a dry area. Wear protective gear such as gloves, rubber boots and a mask.
Open windows and doors and to allow moisture to evaporate more quickly.
Start removing the excess water with a wet/dry vacuum cleaner or with mops and old cloth. If the water level is deep, use a pump to drain the water. Ask someone to help, since the longer the water stays on the floor, the higher the chances are for mold to grow and the bigger the damages will be.
Use dehumidifiers, heaters and fans to speed up the drying process. Place them on top of an elevated surface in the flooded area and close the windows. Direct the fans towards the floor’s surface.
Clean any debris and mud from the floor with non-abrasive brush and detergent while the heaters, fans and dehumidifiers are running. Rinse the floor with clean water and continue to dry the floor.
In conclusion, when dealing with a flooded hardwood floor, act quickly and contact a professional flood remediation company such as SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties 502-904-0710.
Water and fire disasters come in many different experiences and there is nothing more devastating to a homeowner in Bardstown than to see their home damaged. Anger, fear, disbelief, and shock are just a few of the emotions that you and your family will go through after a disaster. More often than not, these disasters can cause severe damage to your property and personal belongings. That is where professional content and restoration companies come into play.
What is content cleaning?
Content cleaning is the detailed cleaning, drying, sanitizing, deodorization, and resurfacing of most household items that have been affected by a disaster. The content cleaning process helps to return your personal items back to their original condition. Content cleaning can help salvage family mementos, valuable art items such as painting, jewelry, and treasured pictures.
Damaged property
After any disaster, it is important to secure your property to minimize any further damage. Inspect personal property only if it is safe to do so. Take inventory so you can determine what can be saved and what must be replaced. This process can be overwhelming and it would be more than beneficial to contact a professional content cleaning company to do this for you. The professionals have an eye for what can be restored to pre-damaged condition. There may be more of your belongings that can be salvaged than you expect.
There may be some situations that require that your personal belongings be removed and relocated for immediate and thorough cleaning, restoration, and decontamination. If your home has suffered from extensive water or fire damage it is often easier, safer, and more cost-efficient to have your belongings taken to a secure facility to start the cleaning and restoration process.
Most content cleaning companies will provide what is called a pack-out service. This is where they will inventory and record your belongings, safely package and transport your belongings to their secure facility where the cleaning and restoration process will take place. Reputable companies will require meticulous documentation of your belongings to ensure that nothing is misplaced. In some cases, if your belongings cannot be returned home immediately after the cleaning and restoration process, the professionals will safely package and store your belongings in their facility until they can be delivered to your home.
Salvageable Items
Artwork and Antiques
Documents and Books
Photographs
VHS and DVD media
Clothing
Electronics
Furniture
Rugs
Here are just a few of the ways that professionals clean salvageable items.
Methods of content cleaning.
Dry cleaning is used for removing light to medium non-grease soils, or per-treating to remove excess soil before wet or immersion cleaning.
Wet cleaning, an aggressive method of removing medium to heavy soiling on items that can be cleaned with chemicals.
Spray and wipe, a method used when items may be damaged by chemical cleaning products.
Abrasive cleaning consists of agitation of the surfaces before being cleaned.
Immersion cleaning, effective for items that can be submerged in the cleaning chemicals.
For immediate help after a water damage disaster, contact a certified and insured restoration company like SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties. 502-904-0710.
Now that summer is in full effect, we’re seeing more and more flood losses due to heavy rains. And while these flood damages can look very different, there are some common areas of the home that are more prone to attack from rain water when the clouds break. So let’s look at some of those areas of weakness, discuss what happens to cause problems, and what you can do to prevent (well, at least help reduce the risk of flooding happening…there is no surefire step(s) to take that will ensure your home is impervious to heavy rains).
Where does rain water attack a home?
Any section of your home can become a victim of rain water intrusion, but the reality is there are certain sections that are much more prone to attack than others.
The roof
Let’s discuss the most obvious entry point first: the system that takes the biggest beating when heavy rains come down. Your roofing system protects you from the elements and is designed to shed water away from your house (in concert with your gutter system). But even the smallest problem with your roof can cause big problems when a heavy rain occurs. Just one damaged or missing shingle can allow hundreds of gallons of rain into your attic and walls should a sustained period of rain hit your area.
We've written about it before, but it’s extremely important that you inspect your roof at the end of winter and before the spring rains hit so that you can identify and fix any problem areas before they’re asked to stand up to the pressures of spring rains. Assuming you can safely do so, replacing a damaged shingle is not that difficult and can end up saving you a ton of money should it prevent a flooding situation.
Window seals
How long ago were your windows installed? A lot of times the window unit itself can stand up to the constant attack of rain, but the sealant used to install the window can erode over time. It’s always a good idea to check your windows’ seals pre-Spring to make sure they aren’t cracked or beginning to peel away from the home.
Main plumbing drain
This is the most overlooked problem, and sadly one of the more common types of flooding damages we see in a home. Basically what can happen is when it rains a lot (if your city is serviced by what is known as a combined sewer system), the main pipe in the street can become overloaded with rain water. As an escape from the flooded pipe, the water goes wherever it can. The easiest place for it to go is any pipes that tie into the line it’s in. That’s your home’s main drain pipe. So the water shoots back up your pipe and into your home, bringing with it raw sewage and a host of dangerous pathogens.
The most effective way to prevent such a scenario from taking place is having a licensed plumber come to your home to install a backflow valve. These are installed as the first fitting outside your home (where the pipe exiting your home ties into the pipe running below your lawn is) and are designed to detect when water is coming backup the pipe and release a valve that will then act as a barrier to stop the water from entering your home. While it isn’t foolproof, it can greatly diminish the threat of a backup issue when heavy rains come.
Basement walls and floors
You see this type of flooding damage most often when an area is hit with sustained rain storms over the course of multiple days, or when back to back storms batter an area. What happens is the water table (meaning the water that has seeped into the ground in the area around the home) becomes fully saturated. The pressure of this water on the concrete walls and floors of the basement become too much, and the water begins to seep into the basement through these barriers. Yes, concrete is porous and as such will allow water to pass through it!
How can you protect your basement against this type of attack? There are a couple of options. One is to install interior drainage tiles that will collect this groundwater and transport it through corrugated piping and release it a safe distance from the home. The other method is to have a sump pump installed in the lowest area of your basement. The catch basin will collect any intruding water and the pump itself will pump the water away from the home. If you have a nice finished basement and live in an area prone to flooding, we strongly suggest you have a basement water proofer come out and perform an assessment to discuss the best methods for waterproofing your finished basement in the event of rain storms.
Do you have flood damages from recent rains?
If so, we would be grateful for the opportunity to survey the damages and offer our recommendations for how to most cost-effectively repair them. Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today and we’ll send out the closest on-call crew to fully assess the damages and provide you with an estimate. And best of all, we use industry-standard pricing and back all of our flood damage cleanup services with a 100% satisfaction guarantee! Just give SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties a call and we’ll be on our way! 502-904-0710
A sump pump is one of your home’s best defenses against flooding. These devices pump out water that has accumulated in the sump basin, which is commonly found in basements, saving you thousands of dollars in flood damage. When choosing a sump pump for your home or property, keep in mind the following information:
1. What types of sump pumps are there and what are their Pros and Cons?
There are two primary types of sump pumps: Submersible and Column (Pedestal). Submersible sump pumps require a larger sump pit and, because they are below water, the motor will be cooled off faster and the noise level is reduced when the pump is operating. Pedestal sump pumps are useful when the sump pit is narrow or shallow. They typically last longer because the motor is mounted above the sump. In addition, they consume less power. The only trade-off is that it pumps less water during a flood.
2. What type of float switch do I need?
You have three main options: tethered, vertical and electronic float switches. A tethered switch is good for deeper sump pits with a large diameter. This switch extends the period of time between pump cycles, allowing the motor to cool off more efficiently. Vertical switches are better for narrow and shallow sump pits and will kick off the pump more often. Electronic switches are more compact and require a small sump pit. However, don’t use an electronic switch if the pump receives water from a wash sink or your laundry machine, to prevent soap scum from making contact with the switch.
3. How much horsepower should my sump pump have?
More horsepower means that the water is pumped faster, but it also means more power consumption. If you have frequent water problems and your sump pit fills rapidly, choose a sump pump with more horsepower. Also, consider increasing the size of your sump pit to prevent the pump from running too frequently.
4. What material should my sump pump be made of: cast iron or thermoplastic?
Cast iron sump pumps are generally stronger than thermoplastic, but both are designed for long life. Besides the stronger material, the advantage of cast iron pumps is that they distribute heat from the motor better, maximizing the cooling ability of the sump pump. Plastic sump pumps, on the other hand, are less expensive.
5. Do I need a check valve?
A check valve is a good addition to your sump pump system. It prevents water in the discharge pipe to fall back into the sump pit, which would be re-pumped if weren’t for the check valve. Consider purchasing a check valve to save on electricity and prolong the life of your sump pump.
6. Do I need a battery-operated backup pump?
In addition to your main sump pump, you can install a backup pump that uses batteries to make sure water is pumped out during a power outage or when the main pump malfunctions. If you live in a flood prone area, a backup pump adds extra flooding protection to your basement or crawl space.
In order to ensure your sump pump works properly throughout the year, test and maintain it periodically. For professional fire, water, and mold restoration services, contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties 502-903-0710.
June 21st officially kicked off the beginning of summer. With summer already in full swing and many areas throughout the US being in extreme drought conditions and too dry, extra fire safety precautions for this Fourth of July weekend are a MUST! SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties offers these Fire Safety Tips.
• Never use gasoline to start BBQ grills • Never dump hot coals in dumpsters • If you are camping, be sure to check the regulations on fires. Many areas may be closed to all fires (including charcoal grills) due to extreme dry conditions • Never leave a fire unattended and always be sure it is dead out when you leave • When boating, always wear a Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device, and always have children closely supervised anytime they are around water • If you want to include fireworks in your holiday celebration, check where professional displays will be held. Attending a professional fireworks display is the only legal way to celebrate the 4th of July,
Another great resource for Fireworks safety is The National Council on Fireworks Safety. Their article, "Be Fireworks Smart Before, During and After Your Consumer Fireworks Display" also offers helpful safety tips for firework safety. Remember to check your city or town's laws regarding fire safety and see if they have any rules regarding BBQ’s, cookouts and fireworks during this Fourth of July!
As always, Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties for all your Mitigation needs. 502-904-0710
Did you know that half of all home fire deaths occur in bedrooms? That’s also where most electrical fires start too. However, you can easily prevent bedroom fires by following these essential safety tips:
Don’t run electric cords under the bed or carpeting. Don’t trap cords against a wall where heat can build up. Keep cords untangled to allow heat to dissipate. Never overload an extension cord.
Always supervise space heaters. Turn them off when leaving the bedroom or going to sleep.
Install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to prevent fires in electrical switches. They shut off the circuit when an unintentional discharge of electricity occurs in the circuit.
Install tamper resistant receptacles (TRRs) in all rooms if you have children. These devices prevent them from inserting foreign objects like hairpins into the outlet.
Never put devices that are charging under bedding. Leaving a laptop on the bed can also cause a fire.
Only use laboratory-approved electric blankets and warmers. Don’t fold them as it may damage the wiring. Never sleep with an electric blanket turned on and regularly check it for overheating.
Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heat sources, such as space heaters, candles, and electronics.
Keep lit candles away from combustible objects like bedding, curtains, and paper. Consider replacing burning candles with battery-operated flameless candles.
Use only mattresses that meet the 2007 Federal Mattress Standards.
Don’t smoke in bed — you might fall asleep with a lit cigarette in your hand and it could catch fire. Use fire-safe cigarettes as they extinguish more quickly.
Install smoke alarms inside and outside each bedroom. Test Smoke Alarms monthly and replace them every 10 years. Replace batteries once a year.
Create a fire escape plans. Make sure each room has two exits. Practice your home fire drill with everyone in the home at night and during the day twice a year.
For professional fire damage repair or smoke remediation services, contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson today at 502-904-0710
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, as many as one in four businesses that suffer some kind of major disaster do not reopen afterward. It’s true, overcoming a major loss is extremely difficult, but with the right restoration company and team on your side, working hand-in-hand with your insurance company, the chance of your Indianapolis-area company surviving is pretty high!
Depending on the size of the fire, and the amount of damage, some businesses that have come to Total Restoration for help have reopened just days after the fire happened. Thanks to innovations in smoke odor removal, fire damage restoration, and cleaning in general, it is possible for crews to start work nearly immediately after the fire department clears the scene, and have things back up and running in no time. Although, again, that all depends on the severity of the fire. But no matter the severity, recovery is possible!
According to the National Fire Prevention Association, U.S. fire departments responded to about 3,300 office property fires per year between 2007 and 2011. Those fires resulted in about $112 million in property damage each year, and most were in business offices – and happened during business hours. However, the good news is the number of business fires was down a whopping 71 percent from 1980 to 2011.
Here are some other stats from the NFPA:
Time of Day
Peak time of day for office fires: Noon – 2p.m. (a.k.a. lunch time!)
69% happened between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
The 31% that occurred between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. caused 67% of recorded property damage, because they went undetected longer. This also highlights the need for automatic detection equipment and working sprinkler systems.
19% of fires happened on weekends.
Cause of the Business Fires
29% were caused by cooking equipment. However, just 6% of these fires caused actual property damage.
Intentionally-set fires caused the most direct property damage – 21%.
Electrical equipment is the second leading cause of office fires.
Just 2% of office fires start in a concealed space like an attic, in the ceiling, or in another conceals space. However, these fires accounted for 13% of the direct property damage.
Containment & Putting it Out
4 out of 5 fires were confined to the room of origin.
90% of fires were large enough to activate sprinklers, which were effective 88% of the time.
Deaths per 1,000 stores were 62% lower in offices equipped with sprinklers compared to those without.
Industrial/Manufacturing Facility Fires
The NFPA also has statistics specific to manufacturing facilities. According to their research, there are about 37,000 fires at industrial or manufacturing facilities each year, resulting in 18 deaths, 279 injuries, and $1 billion in property damage. Heating equipment and stop tools were the leading cause – sparking 28 percent of the fires. Mechanical failure or malfunction caused 24 percent of the fires.
The Best Way to Reduce a Business Interruption Following a Disaster to Your Business is to Plan Ahead for One
As many as 50% of businesses never recover following a disaster, according to the latest industry research. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties can help you plan ahead for a disaster to minimize business interruption by developing an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for your business before one strikes. An ERP provides important contact and building information needed to begin a timely mitigation to help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business. Benefits of an ERP include:
-A no cost assessment of your facility which means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
-A concise profile document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency. It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
-A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
-Establishes SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson County as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider. You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by, when needed.
-Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin. This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
-Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information. Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are “Ready for whatever happens.”
Contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to schedule your FREE Emergency Ready Profile today. 502-904-0710
Floods are one of the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States.
There is always potential for flood damage no matter where you live. According to the American Red Cross floods cause more damage in the United States every year than any other weather related disaster. The American Red Cross offers these flood safety tips:
-Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
-If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are riding rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
-Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties. Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage. We are faster to ANY size disaster. Let us help you get your life back in order. Call us at 502-904-0710
After a flood, many homeowners and property managers wonder if their carpet and pad can be saved. The answer is, it depends. Factors such as the age and quality of the carpet and pad, as well as the type of installation used, have to be taken into consideration. However, the type of floodwater that caused the damage is most important when determining whether or not carpet and padding can be salvaged.
There are 3 floodwater categories that determine whether the carpet and padding can be restored to their pre-disaster condition:
Category 1 (clean water): non-contaminated water that may come from a broken pipe, sink, etc. After the water has been extracted, carpets and pads can be dried and restored in place.
Category 2 (gray water): dirty water that has been released by sump pumps, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. The carpet can usually be restored if it has been wet for less than 48 hours. The pad is replaced in most cases.
Category 3 (black water): water containing dangerous contaminants that may originate from sewage and toilet backflows as well as from floods caused by natural disasters. To protect your family’s health, carpets and pads should be removed, discarded and replaced.
Since every water damage situation is different, you cannot know for sure if or when your carpet and pad can be salvaged until you have a professional restoration company inspect the situation.
The faster you report the disaster, the lower the costs will be. If you’re dealing with a flooding problem, contact SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson today speak to a Mitigation Specialist today. 502-904-0710
Any discussion about mold cleanup should start with understanding why mold begins to grow in the first place. Customers with a mold damage problem are always surprised to learn that toxic mold spores are present not just in their home, but every home, and in fact almost every environment. It’s a naturally occurring element and in low levels is completely safe to humans and pets and your home in general. So when does it become a problem? When too much moisture is introduced in the organic surfaces mold feeds on to grow. Things like drywall, insulation, wood, cabinets, etc. become mold’s food source when mixed with water and the right temperature. While there are many strains of toxic mold, most thrive in temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’ll notice, the average temperature in home’s ideal to our own comfort sits squarely within that range. So when it comes to mold growth, 2 things are always present: the right temperature and food. It’s when you introduce that 3rd element, water, that problems can quickly grow out of hand!
Most common moisture problems that lead to mold
If your home suffered a massive water damage event, you’re obviously going to know about it and hopefully you’re going to hire a competent water damage restoration company to fix it (hint hint, that’s us!). So the likelihood of that event unleashing a chain reaction that leads to a big mold problem is small assuming you have the moisture removed quickly. The real big mold jobs we see are from much smaller, long-term moisture problems that just never went diagnosed. Below are some of the most common persistent water damage problems we see that can result in a massive amount of black mold damage.
Leaks under sinks
Whether it’s from a supply line with a loose connection or a drain pipe that has a small hole, slow leaks under seats (or any other sink for that matter) can go unnoticed for some time because your cabinets can hide the problem. It’s always a good idea to check under your sink cabinets to look for any signs of moisture or musty odors. If you detect a problem, it may be a good idea to have a professional come out and inspect things further. In some cases the problem is isolated and will be something you can handle on your own. But in some cases, the visible signs are only the tip of the iceberg. You’d be shocked what we have seen on and in walls and under flooring after pulling out cabinets!
Small roof leaks
In some instances, the symptoms of a significant roof leak are discovered pretty quickly. Usually you see discoloration in the top floor’s ceiling or worse, it collapses entirely. But in other cases when you have a very small leak, the problem can go undetected for quite some time and never result in water damage you can see from inside the home. It’s usually discovered when someone goes up into the attic for some unrelated reason and sees the problem: mold growth everywhere. On the roof decking, insulation, support beams, you name it. At that point, you’ve got an expensive problem on your hands and your insurance company likely isn’t going to pay for the damages.
The best way to prevent this particular mold problem from occurring is to perform both an exterior as well as interior inspection at least once a year. For the exterior, actually walk the roof of your home (if it’s safe) to look for damaged or missing shingles. Replacing them is easy! For the inside, climb up to your attic and inspect the roof decking for signs of water intrusion.
Pipe leaks inside walls
A lot of times we are called to a home to do a mold inspection because a homeowner noticed a small patch of mold growing on the floor next to a wall. When we dig further, we usually discover there is a plumbing pipe housed in that wall that is slowly leaking and depositing water on the floor inside the wall cavity. Once we start to remove the drywall, often times we discover the problem is much larger than just the small visible spot on the floor. Usually the mold has traveled throughout the wall cavity and inside the subfloor. The damage can be extensive and the costs high.
You obviously can’t go tearing out sections of your walls often to figure out if you have a problem, so what can you do? The main thing you should be doing is watching your water bill. If you notice a spike and can’t determine a cause for that spike, you may have an undetected leak. At that point, you may want to hire a leak detection company to come out and perform an inspection to determine if you have a bigger problem you need to deal with. They’re better equipped at finding the problem, at which point we would come in and remove the excess moisture and black mold as well as repair any surfaces or structures that were torn out during the process!
Mold In Your Home? Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties 502-904-0710.
Companies that perform water damage restoration have to be skilled in a number of areas to stay current in their field. Technicians in the industry have to combat a number of threats, some visible and some invisible, before their job is done. Structural weakening, chemical runoff, electrical hazards, dangerous wildlife, and deadly microbes are all common risks technicians have to contend with. Without the proper education and equipment, a technician risks grave injury and may leave health risks behind for a family to encounter. Fortunately, technicians in the industry have access to the educational resources offered by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, or IICRC.
After getting certified in water damage restoration and a number of related fields, a professional in the field will be able to identify and neutralize any problems they are likely to face at a job site. In most cases, a technician is called to a home following a flood or plumbing disaster. In either case, the initial threat a technician has to encounter is hazardous standing liquid. Floods and sewage backups are normally host to dangerous chemicals, like oil runoff, bacteria and viruses. Before any repairs can be done on the home, a technician will need to be outfitted with the proper safety wear and begin investigating where the liquid is pooling. Moisture meters can detect the level of moisture in and behind drywall, carpet, and other areas. Using minimally-invasive tools, a technician can quickly find pockets of heavy moisture in areas not readily accessible.
This is important because only thorough drying will ensure that further destruction does not occur. Most companies use a combination of industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to extract moisture from both materials and the air. This process can take some time, but diagnostic tools like moisture meters help technicians monitor the drying process. Once all of the materials inside the home have reached safe levels, mold and other microbial growth can be halted.
The most severe threats a water damage restoration company has to deal with are molds and other pathogens. These contaminants can remain a major hazard for years after they have taken root, and can cause insidious health problems while remaining hidden in vents or behind walls. Trained technicians are capable of neutralizing molds and other pathogens by utilizing special cleaning products and quickly removing compromised materials. Being able to identify mold growth is an important skill for a professional, and stemming the growth of a colony can be the difference between saving a home and having to condemn it. Certified firms are capable of quickly working through a property and disposing of anything that is beyond repair. Anything that is salvageable but soaked is separated, cleaned properly, and promptly dried. If the building’s structural integrity has been affected, these technicians can identify it and alert the homeowner and the insurance representative to its presence.
Without professional help, a homeowner will never know for sure that their home is safe to live in again. This is why the help of a certified technician is so valuable. They don’t just repair homes, they restore normalcy.
Though IICRC does not in fact operate its own school, it does recommend the best water damage restoration technician training courses per industry standards.
Time is of the essence after a major water disaster. Though Journeyman-certified technicians may be the right choice for water damage that does not threaten structural integrity, it is vital to bring an IICRC certified Master professional to the scene of a major disaster as soon as possible. Certified professionals use the skills they’ve learned in the accreditation courses to examine the structure, textiles, and the belongings, and will likely be able to control the damage, so no further damage will occur.
Furthermore, knowing the fastest and best means of drying the structure and textiles is imperative. Familiarity with the most effective processes and safest compounds to stop the spread of molds and microbes is also needed to protect people and animals in the environment. Graduates of the relevant IICRC-approved classes excel in these areas.
The importance of providing customer satisfaction cannot be over-emphasized. Each certified technician must pass a stringent series of exams prior to acceptance, and continual training is required. Complaints are taken seriously and must be handled promptly to ensure continued accreditation as a certified firm.
Water damage restoration technician training is a surefire way to insure the latest and greatest procedures are used to protect a customer’s property. There are various courses of study and ways to learn the information, so IICRC works with both the consumer and the professional to guarantee the best experience.
All of SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties restoration technicians are IICRC trained.
Groundwater leaks are the problem that basement contractors encounter most commonly. As groundwater pressures build in a basement, they can add a special type of pressure- known as hydrostatic pressure- against foundation walls in a basement or crawl space.
This water will enter the basement or crawl space through any opening it can find, including any gaps or cracks along the foundation walls. While basement flooding is most common through the joint where the foundation wall meets the floor, it's also common for water to leak in through cracks, around pipes leading out of the home, around windows, and through the basement floor. Each of these problems is unique- below are many of the most common sources of groundwater leakage.
Basement Wall Cracks A crack in the basement wall is leaking, allowing water to flood into the home. They can also be a potential indicate of a foundation issue, especially if the cracks are not vertical. Whether horizontal, diagonal, or vertical, this is a major potential problem that should be looked at right away.
Pipe Penetration Leak
A gap around a pipe that penetrates through the basement wall is allowing water to run from the earth outside into the home. If not a pipe, it could also be a cable or electrical wire, a sewage line, or some other opening. These lines can be much more challenging to seal than a typical wall crack, and because they expand and shrink with temperature, seals can easily work loose.
Basement Leaks on the floor or at the Wall/Floor Joint
Water is seeping upwards from cracks running along the floor, or it's leaking in from the corners of the floor, where the basement walls and floors meet. Often, water will also leak through the walls, especially in cases where field stone walls are present. In the case of block walls, the cavities in the blocks will fill with water, which will then seep through the bottom of the walls.
Leaking Basement Windows Water is coming in around your windows and leaking down to the basement floor. This is sometimes made worse by window wells that are filling with water, snow, and debris. Basement window leaks are often also caused or intensified by rotting or rusting window frames, which is common with steel and wood framed basement windows.
Water Leak in your basement? Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties today to speak to a Mitigation Specialist. 502-904-0710
If you are living a very busy lifestyle that you do not have the time to maintain the drill of making your house clean, you should hire cleaners employed by companies since they offer very comprehensive cleaning services specifically to homeowners and organizations. Cleaning companies are committed to providing highly professional services that include household chores. You are assured that you can get an excellent service for money with their flexible service at a very low-cost.
Below are tricks that company cleaners will do to ensure your house remains clean always:
Ensure Your Bed Is Made
Some individuals are too lazy to make their bed in the morning as they get up. The best action to take is to employ cleaners from cleaning companies that will be servicing your house daily. The cleaners will ensure that your bed is made neatly. The bed is the most important place to keep neat as it will reduce chances of any harmful organism from hiding in between the blankets and sheets ensuring that you live in a very safe environment. Try The London Cleaners, who is committed to provide exceptional domestic and commercial cleaning service.
Wipe Your Bedside Table
You might forget to wipe your bedside table each morning either because you have a very tight schedule or because you are a lazy individual. Your cleaner will ensure that your bedside table is wiped spotless clean so as to make your bed look tidy. This is very important as it gives your room a clean look which gives a good impression to any visitor who might enter your room.
Clean Your Dishes
Most people are afraid of washing dishes even if they have a dishwasher. There are two different types of cooks: those who clean while they are cooking and those who cannot do the latter. Employ cleaners who will clean your utensils daily and leave your kitchen sink clean and sanitized with upmost perfection.
Wipe Your Cooking Surfaces
Failing to wipe your cooking surfaces is very hazardous to your health as it will act as an excellent breeding place for disease-causing organisms. Worry no more as house cleaners are just the right people for this kind of work. They will ensure that your countertops and cooking surfaces are wiped to ensure your kitchen is spotless leaving no breeding ground for bacteria.
Do Your Laundry
If you have the habit of throwing the clothes that you’ve on a chair making your house living room look filthy, then the best action to take is to employ a cleaner. The cleaners will do your laundry, dry the laundry then fold it for you and if there are clothes that will need to be hanged in your closet they will do the same after ironing the clothes making your closet look neat and attractive.
In conclusion, cleaners that are practically employed by companies are the best option you should consider to do your household chores. The cleaners will offer a flexible and affordable service that will satisfy all your requirements. They are highly-trained and well – experienced cleaners that even fully vetted and most importantly, insured to suit your peace of mind.
Picture this: You’re on your back porch in the middle of July, your body firmly planted in the greatest lounge chair known to man. You’re sipping on a tall glass of lemonade as your newly-acquired wireless speaker is blasting Oasis’ “Wonderwall.” You look at your sprawling garden and give yourself a mental pat on the back for all the work you’ve done.
Talk about an oasis.
Now, back to reality. In order to achieve this blissful moment, you first need to get your hands dirty. Lucky for you, we’ve supplied a list of 10 easy DIY garden projects to take on in the spring and summer months. Take a look and then grab a shovel.
10 Easy DIY Garden Projects
1. DIY Garden Walkway
Walkways and paths are almost always featured in large and elaborate gardens. If space permits, consider laying down stone or brick to make your garden easily navigable. The project will also provide a unifying feeling by tying together the different aspects of your garden. As far as DIY outdoor garden projects go, this one is a must.
2. Brick Flower Beds
Constructing a DIY brick flower bed is a fantastic idea for those that may not have space for a garden otherwise. A raised frame can add appeal and clearly define the dimensions of the space. This project can be completed in three rather simple steps:
Determine how big of an area you’ll need. Multiply the width of the bricks by the number of bricks.
Dig out the space to lay the bricks. Make sure the trench is deep enough to hold the bricks in place.
Place the bricks in your trench. Monitor each level as you go, ensuring the bricks are laying evenly
3. DIY Garden Sculptures
DIY garden sculptures can exist in many forms. They can range from a child’s school project to intricate statues. The key is to get creative. Accent your garden with fixtures that fit your personality. Look around your house for inspiration and find objects that may not otherwise be used.
4. Homemade Outside Benches
There’s plenty of tutorials on how to make a homemade outside bench. While some are challenging and take the hand of a carpenter, there’s plenty that can be built by even amateur DIYers. Benches (or other forms or seating) are a must for big backyards with gardens.
5. DIY Brick Plant Markers
Plant markers are a great way to mix design and functionality. Plus, it’s an easy project you can complete in a few hours. You can use brick, stones you find in your yard or on a beach, or really any other surface that will hold up. Then all you have to do is paint or write the names of the plants in your garden. Talk about an easy DIY garden project.
6. Unusual Garden Planters
Garden planters can come from anywhere. Nothing proves that more than the picture below. While you may not be ready for a toilet planter, don’t be afraid to explore your attic and garage sales for random objects. Odds are you’ll find a cheap option that can become a conversation piece in your garden.
7. DIY Outdoor Plant Stand
Your DIY garden project aspirations don’t have to die if space is a worry or if you live in an urban environment. Outdoor plant stands can look great in tight spaces and provide many of the same functions as a normal garden. Consider using an old ladder or differently sized wooden boxes to complete this project.
8. Homemade Yard Art
Art doesn’t have to be restricted to the typical garden gnome or pinwheels. Use old wooden drawers to display different items that reflect your personal style or whip out paint supplies to add a unique touch to brick and stone.
9. DIY Vertical Flower Beds
It’s well-known in the DIY world that pallets have many uses. Gardens are no exception. You can easily turn a pallet into a DIY vertical flower bed if you have wall space or something to support the pallet. If you’re seeking a rustic look, this is a great easy DIY garden project to try.
10. Homemade Porch Swing
Remember that oasis we talked about? No project is better at achieving that than a homemade porch swing. You’ll be able to sit back and enjoy the view of your beautiful garden. You can start to take on this DIY garden project by watching a tutorial on how to make a porch swing.
There are many people that try to clean their very expensive carpets and rugs all by themselves. What happens is that instead of cleaning these carpets, people often destroy their carpets when they try to do it themselves. This is why there are professional cleaners for this purpose. These cleaners will clean your carpets for you in the best way possible.
Here are some reasons why the professional cleaners are the best.
Quick service:
There is no doubt that you will get your carpets cleaned a lot quicker if you ire the professionals to do it. These professional cleaners know that your time is precious. So, they make sure that they get your carpets stain free as quickly as possible. This is why you will not have to wait a long time to get them to clean your carpets and rugs.
Affordable charges:
Another reason why these professional carpet cleaners are the best choice for your carpets is that they charge reasonable rates. You can get the professional cleaners service to clean your carpets at a very affordable price. This is why more people are going towards the option of professional cleaners. You will get your carpets look as good as new and that too at a reasonable price. What more can a person ask for!
Quality service:
One of the greatest fear that people have regarding their carpets is that the cleaning crew will destroy the quality of the carpet. With the professional cleaners you will have no such problem. All you will need to do, is to call them. They use the most modern and harmless products to get your carpets super clean and stain free.
We slap paint on them, use them for displaying art and even mount our TVs on them.
Although there are many ways we bring our walls to life – plants are generally not one of them.
A living wall, also known as a green wall or vertical garden, is a wall of plants that can be attached to the interior or exterior of a building, requiring the same basic care as plants in the ground need.
While a living wall is something you don’t see every day, the idea of one isn’t as farfetched as you think.
In fact, living walls are becoming more commonplace in lobbies of hotels and corporate offices, as well as shopping centers, like this green monster in Milan. They vary in size and shape but provide the same benefits, such as:
They’re Aesthetically Pleasing
A green wall is a living work of art, and if designed well, can drastically improve the overall appearance of any home or building.
“It’s easy to lose touch with nature and forget its beauty when living in such a globalized and industrialized society, said Sara Abate Rezvanifar of Ambience Design Group. “What better way to brighten up your home and bring it to life than with the use of a living green wall.”
They Improve Air Quality
In addition to looking great, living walls help purify the air. They clean outside air of pollutants and offset the carbon footprint of people and fuel emissions. In the home, living walls help clean common air toxins such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.
A living wall is like an umbrella for a building. It shields it from the sun, rain and wind, therefore increasing the integrity and longevity of a building’s exterior.
They Cut Energy Costs
As the temperature rises, so does the urge to crank the AC. Living green walls help control that urge by acting as a natural coolant.
In the winter, living walls serve as extra insulation, reducing the amount of heat that escapes.
They Increase Property Value
While living walls certainly aren’t a new concept, they’re part of a design trend that is growing in popularity. By adding a living green wall inside your home, you can earn LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) points. In return, this helps increase property value by being more eco-friendly.
They’re Good for the Soul
Do you feel more relaxed and less stressed around greenery? That could be because of how plants filter and remove toxins, leading to energy-rich oxygen. Plants also allow us to connect with nature, providing a sense of calmness in today’s fast-paced society.
Image Source: LiveWall
Thinking about making a living wall of your own?
According to Mike Haynes of LiveWall, the best way to incorporate a successful living wall in the home starts with research.
“It’s very important to select a living wall system that will give the plants what they need to be healthy long-term,” Haynes said. “This means giving them enough soil volume to grow a healthy root structure and orienting them so they can grow upright, like they do naturally.”
Spring officially starts in a few days, but if you just can’t wait, start thawing your senses now with our favorite reads of the season. This month we highlight stories to bring your home back to life, with guides to infusing your space with spring colors, fragrances, decor and more.
The Healthiest and Most Useful Plants
Some houseplants do more than beautify your home. Reader’s Digest has a great feature on five plants that absorb toxins, including florist and Thumbtack pro Elena Seegers’ pick: the easy-to-care-for spider plant. Other healthy plants include jade trees (no wonder they’re considered lucky!) and brightly-colored bromeliads.
We also love this guide from Country Living on how to grow and use lavender to attract bees and butterflies, make relaxing body oils, enrich lemony desserts, craft wreaths and tons more. You’ll want to put lavender in everything.
The Right Scent for Every Room
Think of fragrance as the top note to any clean room — it’s the final touch on a whole lot of effort. Real Simple features a captivating interview with fragrance expert Rayda Vega, who says that fragrance is “like music” — and you should pick the scent you use in each room accordingly.
If you’re not always sure what works where, you’ll love Vega’s room-by-room suggestions (try appetizing scents like thyme and apple for the kitchen and a subtle floral bouquet in the living room). The most common mistake people make? Sticking with just one note. Read the full article for tips on a more nuanced approach.
How to Make a Terrarium
The soil may still be a bit frosty, but now’s the perfect time to indulge your green thumb with an indoor project. Better Homes and Gardens has a step-by-step guide to creating a space-friendly terrarium (bonus: they’re easy to take care of).
Plants that love humidity and don’t require a lot of light do well in terrariums. If you’re looking for a shopping list, try BHG’s list of top plants — spider ferns, clubmoss and begonias all made the cut. Add colored gravel to your container in spring colors to match the rest of your decor.
Light Spring Decor Ideas
Just in time to spruce the nest for spring, House Beautiful has a gallery of dozens of stunning home decor ideas. Unique wall updates in chinoiserie, stripes, and playful patterns factor heavily here, as do very bright colors inspired by spring blooms like mustard yellow and quince pink.
If you’re not up for a more effort-intensive update (lacquered ceiling, anyone?), there are plenty of lightweight fixes to love. You can’t go wrong with new table linens and dining pillows (both indoors and outdoors), for example.
Do you find yourself trying to talk homeowners out of a bad design decision while watching HGTV, daydreaming about how you would update the dilapidated house down the street, or enjoying your weekend DIY design projects so much that you've toyed with the idea of doing it full time as an interior decorator? Before you quit your day job, it's prudent to learn what going pro entails.
Paula Wallace, president and founder of Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), can vouch that it's not all dramatic makeovers and reality TV shows. We asked Paula to tell us what a degree in interior design entails, and since SCAD's program is consistently ranked among the best in the nation, interior design studies are close to her heart.
Paula divulged the two most important lessons every new SCAD interior design student learns ahead.
1. A Solid Design Foundation
You may have a knack for pairing colors or knowing the best spot to place a sofa, but to be a professional you need to know a lot more than that. At SCAD, all students must start in the School of Foundation Studies. "They master concepts in color theory, drawing, and two- and three-dimensional design to prepare for their majors. Students learn to balance the visual planes of a space and thoughtfully consider other sensory elements, such as lighting," explains Paula. She says foundational training is essential to being able to create expressions of color, texture, and pattern later on. It's ultimately what makes SCAD students' designs, "resonant and visually rich."
02. Professional Communication
It would be nice if becoming an interior designer meant that you got to customize every space according to your own fabulous taste, but going pro means that you are at the service of clients. And an interior designer who doesn't satisfy their client's needs and match their aesthetic won't last long. "Our students learn more than the principles of design; they learn how to fulfill a client's vision to create solutions and convey concepts as well as details for a space," Paula explains. "Effective and empathic communication skills are vital. Fortunately, SCAD students are awash in the study and practice of presenting and articulating design decisions. Their [class]work includes presenting to clients for real projects."
Now that it's March, home improvement season is underway.
But if you're thinking of redoing a room or deck this year, you might want to know which improvements will give you the most return on your dollar -- and which will give you the least.
New kitchen may not return as much as you hope
New kitchen? Five or 10 years ago, spending $25,000 on your kitchen usually meant you could get another $25,000 at selling time, because upgrading to stainless steel appliances would help your home sell faster.
But not anymore.
Bloomberg News states kitchen projects now return less than they did a decade ago.
Why? Home buyers now expect stainless steel appliances in all but the cheapest homes. Granite counters are almost standard, so they no longer "boost" your homes resale price the way they did a decade ago.
If your home has 1990s-era tile or laminate countertop and a white oven, that will pull down your home's value. Stainless steel has become the new standard in 2017.
Biggest return on investment
Still, a kitchen remains the best project for return on your dollar.
Among the best projects right now:
A kitchen redo: $24,000 on average, Bloomberg says, and you'll recoup 70 percent of the cost at resale. Remember: the first thing buyers look at -- after the outside of the home -- is the kitchen.
A full bathroom remodel: $10,000 on average, with a 62 percent return at resale.
Main floor half bath remodel: Only costs $3,000 but can really help sell a home.
Adding a deck: This remains a good investment: It costs $8,000, and it returns 70 percent of what you paid.
Lower return on your investment
But from the "doesn't that stink" file: Some projects don't return much on investment.
Home office: Bloomberg says converting an extra room to an office with built in bookcases costs $4,000, but you'll get back just 40 percent at resale.
Sunrooms and garage additions (such as making a two-car garage into a three-car garage) also don't bring the big dollars at selling time.
There is nothing wrong with them, and a sunroom will make your home much more enjoyable. But if you drop $20,000 on the project, you probably won't get it back.
Pool: And unless you are in Florida or Southern California, a pool won't increase the value of your home. In northern states, a pool can make your home harder to sell, as some buyers don't want to deal with it. A hot tub is cheaper, and easier to remove if the new owners don't want it.
If you want a sunroom or pool, they are great, as long as you plan to stay in your home a few years.
Don't overdo it
One finally caution: A high-end kitchen remodel, with granite and professional looking appliances, can now go north of $40,000
If you are in a neighborhood of lower-priced homes, you may never get that money back. And you'll say "doesn't that stink?"
So do your research, so you don't waste your money.
Interior designer Caitlin Wilson is an entrepreneur and a mother of three, so when it came to the kitchen, she not only prioritized the ease of use and serving, but also cleaning up.
The kitchen in her Portland, Oregon, residence makes clever use of space to eliminate clutter and maximize convenience. "I wanted it to look like an elegant, glamorous space but function like a restaurant," says Wilson, who is able to shuttle dishes straight from the stove to the large kitchen island, where the family enjoys most of its meals. Additionally, the layout of the sink hides any countertop messes from guests in the family room.
Dual Flow Burners deliver rapid, even heating that can reach up to 23,500 BTU, and the cooktop offers a total of up to 116,000 BTU with burners simmering at 140 degrees. A power griddle reaches 18,000 BTU. The dials offer precise control with LED halos that turn white, orange, and red to indicate heating up, preheated, and self-cleaning modes, respectively.
When choosing appliances for the streamlined space, Wilson gravitated towards DCS by Fisher & Paykel. The professional-grade 48" Dual Fuel Range makes a strong visual statement with the benefit of a powerful performance, contributing to the restaurant-style kitchen she wanted. "I love how seamlessly it fits in with the decor," says Wilson, who used a palette of neutral and metallic hues. "It services so many functions and offers versatility all in one place." With six burners and a griddle plate at her disposal, she can whip up several dishes at once while using fewer pots and pans. The oven boasts 12% more usable space than models with exposed bake elements, able to hold commercial-sized baking sheets. At the end of the meal, Wilson can turn on the oven’s self-cleaning mode and focus on being with her family.
While she wanted some elements to stand out, Wilson wanted others to blend in. The 24" DishDrawer® dishwasher is camouflaged as part of the cabinetry and ergonomically installed so that she doesn’t have to bend to load or unload it. It is strategically placed to allow her to peek into the children’s playroom, which is just beyond the kitchen. The adjustable racking system gives Wilson the option of running a smaller load, which she calls an "absolute game-changer for moms." The 36" ActiveSmart Refrigerator is also integrated with the cabinets to maintain a seamless look throughout the kitchen. Wilson praises it for being easy to organize with adjustable shelving options and LED lighting in all compartments. The cantilevered glass shelves are simple to clean, designed to contain spills and slide out for a quick wipe-down.
Ultimately, the kitchen is where the family most often connects. The kitchen island isn’t just for eating; homework, arts and crafts, and baking projects happen there as well. At night, Wilson and her husband have conversations while they do the dishes. With so much of the home centered in the kitchen, it was essential for Wilson to design a space that was welcoming and intuitive to navigate. She tells us, "My DCS appliances are one of the main reasons why I love my kitchen so much—each of them is easy to operate and aesthetically pleasing."
A Bardstown, Mt, Washington, or Shepherdsville home without a houseplant?? That’d be tragic! Not only do indoor plants bring beauty to a space, but many plants will even purify the air! Finding the right plant for you can be a tough endeavor — the ever-popular fiddle leaf fig? A hardy snake plant, which actually thrives when ignored? Or a prickly-but-pretty cactus? Once you’ve made the selection, you’ve got an even bigger decision on your hands — the planter.
We recently spotted a new line of modern planters. Pop Up Greens, a line of lightweight cylinder planters. And when we say lightweight, we mean shockingly so. The fiberglass material weighs next to nothing and feels a bit strange the first time you pick it up, expecting the weight of a terra-cotta or ceramic planter. This makes rearranging your home much easier — perfect for those decor commitment-phobes. Each one is hand painted, which means it can be customized to your space. And, our favorite part, these are best suited when you keep your plant purchase in its original plastic container. No struggling with bags of soil on a tiny apartment patio!
Pop Up Greens offers 5 size options, ranging in price from $75 to $200. See a few of our favorites in the slideshow, and shop the collection here.
2017 Remodeling for Bardstown and Bullitt County Residents
Homeowners are planning to spend more to improve their homes this year, up 6.7 percent to a total $317 billion, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University. More remodeling activity generally indicates fit financials at the household level, as well as confidence and strength in the housing market.
“Growth in home prices is continuing at a healthy pace and encouraging homeowners to make remodeling investments,” says Chris Herbert, managing director of the Joint Center. “Home sales are remaining on an upward trajectory, as well, and this, coupled with continued growth in remodeling permit activity, suggests another strong year for home improvements.”
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodeling Market Index (RMI) read 53 in the fourth quarter of 2016. (An above-50 reading signals more remodeling activity than less.)
“Many remodelers are seeing consumers commit to larger, long-term home improvement projects,” said 2017 NAHB Remodelers Chair Dan Bawden in a statement on the RMI. “As Americans are seeing wages and home values rise overall, it gives them greater confidence to go ahead and invest in their homes.”
“At 53, the Remodeling Market Index is consistent with NAHB’s forecast that remodeling market activity will continue to grow over the next two years, but at a more moderate annual rate of 1 to 2 percent,” said NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, demand for “major alterations/additions,” according to the RMI, fell to a reading of 53, while demand for “smaller remodeling projects” rose to 52. Demand for “home maintenance/repair” fell to 54.
Bardstown, Springfield, Mt. Washington, and Shepherdsville Kentucky residents, here are some tips on staying safe while doing your own in-home projects. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties always encourages you to take all safety precautions while doing any construction projects.
Have you got a keen interest in DIY? It's a great way to get work done quickly, without spending too much money, but it can become an expensive activity if you or someone dear to you has an accident while you're working. You should always take the necessary precautions when you work and make sure that your work environment is as safe as possible. Below are some ways you can stay safe while you carry out home improvements.
Invest in the Right Safety Equipment
Before you even contemplate working on a new project, make sure you have all of the safety equipment you need. For instance, if you will be working above the ground, you need to have protective headgear and safety items like Harness Land fall protection equipment. These items could save your life and the lives of other people who are helping you to complete dangerous work.
Make Sure All of Your Tools are In Good Working Order
You should regularly check and maintain all of your tools. Faulty electrical tools in particular, have the potential to cause serious accidents and damage to property. Make sure there are no exposed wires and that your tools are not damaged or have defects that could cause serious problems.
Storage
A lot of the tools, equipment and accessories used to renovate a home or carry out DIY tasks have the potential to be dangerous if they are allowed to fall into the wrong hands. You should have a dedicated storage area where you can safely store your tools, dangerous substances and any other items that could harm you or someone else.
Organize Your Workplace
The more unorganized a workplace is, the more likely it is that an accident will occur. To address this issue, you need to declutter your workspace by removing obstacles that people could trip over or slip on. Any items that could cause a fire should also be stored in a safe place. This should be a continuous routine because it doesn't take long for a workplace to become untidy and dangerous again.
Prevent Other People from Entering Your Workspace
While you're working, you want to be able to concentrate on the job at hand. If possible, find ways to prevent other people from interrupting you while you work. Kids, in particular, could be at risk of injury while you are working on a project.
Double Check Everything When You Finish Your Work
Preparation is key when you want to do a good job safely, but it's just as important to check everything when you finish your work each day. For example, you should always make sure everything is stored away and that all of your electric tools are plugged out and no fire hazards exist.
Safety should be the main concern for every DIY enthusiast and home renovator. Unfortunately, not everyone takes this advice and eventually suffers the consequences. However, taking simple precautions like those mentioned above will ensure that you and those around you remain safe at the end of every building project you complete.
It’s that time of year again… Old Man Winter is nipping at your nose, chilling down your toes and – perhaps most distressing of all – driving up your utility expenses with the increased use of your indoor heating system. But wait: instead of automatically reaching for the thermostat dial, consider alternatives to heating the entire house at night. After all, the only room in use is the bedroom, so stay snug, lower your utility costs, and reduce your energy consumption with these easy ideas.
Check for Drafts
If your bedroom windows (or any other windows in your home, for that matter) have gaps or leaks, your warm inside air is leaking away to the outside, leaving you chilly and wasting your hard-earned money. Each season, check all windows and doors that open to the outside. You can use a draft detector, or simply a burning stick of incense to check for unwanted air movement. Fix those gaps and your room will stay warmer.
Use Warmer Bedding
It’s the obvious solution; when nature turns the thermostat down, it’s time to turn up the heat on your bed.
Just as with clothing, layers of bedding keep you warmer, so swap out those percale or sateen sheets for flannel, and top them with a warm blanket and a down-filled (or down-substitute) comforter. You can also go extra-warm with an electric blanket, but keep your plugged-in bedding on top, not layered underneath a comforter or duvet (and remember that electric blankets are only for the master bedroom, not for a child’s room and definitely not for the nursery).
Reverse the Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans are a great way to reduce energy usage any time of year. In the summer, the counterclockwise rotation creates a cooling breeze that’s a treat on muggy, hot nights. But once the winter months roll around, it’s time to reverse your fan’s rotation to clockwise (most ceiling fans have a switch on the fan’s base that sets the rotational direction). Now the fan’s blades will pull warmer air from the ceiling, and push it lower into the room – right where you need it.
Try a Space Heater
While sleep experts agree that 65 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal temperature for sound sleep, if your bedroom dips much below that, you can warm things up a bit without heating the entire house with a space heater. When choosing a portable heater, look for one suitably sized for your room, and place it far enough from the bed so that there is no chance of bedding coming in contact with the device. You’ll also want to play it safe with the cord – don’t stretch it across your escape route in case of emergency (or nighttime bathroom visits), and make sure the heater has a safety feature that turns it off automatically if it tips over or overheats. But while portable heaters are okay in the master bedroom, this is another no-no for a child’s room.
Wear Socks and a Knit Hat
If your significant other likes it on the cool side, but you’re shivering at night, warm yourself up by slipping on thick socks before climbing between the sheets (as a bonus, you’ll sleep better when your feet are warm) and add a knit cap to keep your head cozy. After all, there’s a reason those old-time illustrations show people sleeping in long, pointed caps – although today’s sleeping hats are likelier to be beanies. Either way, you’ll feel warmer and sleep tighter.
Move Your Bed Away From the Window
This isn’t a solution for every bedroom, but if your bed is normally positioned right under a window, you can sleep a little warmer by moving it to the other side of the room. Unless your windows are multi-paned (and even if they are, in very cold areas), the glass will cool down considerably during the night, thus cooling down the inside air near that window. As a result, you feel cooler, as well.
Lay Down a Thick Area Rug
While hard flooring, such as wood or laminate, has many benefits, warmth is not one of them. Do yourself a favor and lay down a thick, warm area rug during the cold months to help insulate your room and give your feet a warm treat when it’s time to crawl out of your snug bed.
Cover the Windows
Since outside temperatures transfer through glass, you can insulate your bedroom a bit by switching to heavier window coverings during the wintertime. So cover up your blinds or switch out those lightweight sheers with heavy, lined drapes. Choose a cheery color to chase away some of the winter gloom while you’re at it.
Time for a Hot Water Bottle
It might be old-school, but it works: slip a hot-water bottle under the sheets when it’s time for bed, and let your tootsies revel in the warmth. If you prefer a more high-tech version, there are heated mattress pads – both full mattress and foot-of-the-bed-only – that do the job quite nicely.
For those of you who are cleaning up after your party, here are a few tips that SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties found. For those stains that you cannot remove, be sure to call us and we'll come give your home a professional clean for the New Year!
We spend weeks planning the perfect holiday party hoping that it will go without a hitch. The night of, candles are lit, food is prepared, glasses of wine are poured, and dance parties are started in the kitchen. The result: You wake up to broken glassware, lipstick stains, water rings, floor scuffs, and worst of all, a raging hangover.
How do you bring your house back up to snuff with minimal effort? To learn all the best post-holiday cleaning tricks, we tapped Jacqueline Yardan, an elite cleaner for TaskRabbit in New York City. Having cleaned up after many eventful parties in the city that never sleeps, she knows a thing or two about what needs cleaning—and how to do it well and efficiently. Did candle wax melt all over your dining table? Is your garbage disposal smelling like ten rats died inside? Did your bestie spill her red wine all over your new ivory carpet?
We have all the easy and unusual solutions to whip your house into shape in no time—so you can get back to watching The Holiday.
For Water Rings
No need to panic when you wake up to a series of water rings on your wooden furniture, says Yardan. "For the guests who couldn't find a coaster, rub a little bit of non-gel toothpaste onto the water ring, and buff with a clean cloth."
For Broken Glass
So things got crazy, and a couple of glasses were broken. "First, you want to sweep up as much of the glass as you can with a dustpan and brush," Yardan says. "Then, use slices of bread to clean up any little shards that may be lingering. Wrap the bread in newspaper and toss it."
For Lipstick Stains
Your girlfriends may have decided to rock their hot new holiday lipsticks, but that's no reason to scrub your wine glasses all morning. "Use half a cup of white vinegar and warm soapy water to wash your glasses," Yardan says. The stains should come off instantly.
For Floor Scuffs
Did your living room or kitchen turn into a late night dance floor? "Most scuffs on a polyurethane hardwood floor can be buffed by rubbing the area vigorously with a soft cloth," Yardan says. "If your guests' high heels left a stubborn scuff, use a dab of floor cleaner, and rub the area with a soft cloth vigorously."
What You'll Need
Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co. Heirloom Cloth, $5
Skidmore's Beeswax Wood Care & Finish, $24
Stelton Sweep-It Dustpan & Broom, $27
For Leftover Wine
The thought of emptying half-full bottles of wine down the sink might make you want to gag, but Yardan says there is an alternative. "Save any half empty bottles of wine your friends may have left behind by freezing the wine in an ice cube tray," she says. "Frozen wine is perfect to use in recipes that call for it."
For Carpet Stains
The sight of a red wine stain on an ivory carpet may send you into hysterics, but this professional cleaner has an easy solution: "You can use any leftover beer you may have to remove carpet stains if you run out of stain-removing liquid," she says. "Rubbing a few drops of beer into a stain can remove it."
For Garbage Disposal Smells
After a night of entertaining guests with your lavishly prepared meals, the last thing you want to fix is a stinky garbage disposal. "Simply run citrus peels through the disposal followed by cold water to get rid of any odors," Yardan says. You can even use the leftovers from last night's cocktails.
For Melted Candle Wax
Did your dimly lit centerpiece melt all over your dining table? There is no use scratching at it just to ruin that mahogany. "Instead, put a couple of ice cubes in a plastic bag and let the bag rest on that stubborn wax," Yardan says. "The wax will become brittle and you will be able to peel it off with a spatula or a credit card."
Plants bring a new dimension of liveliness into the home, varying in their beauty, adding much-needed color, and interplaying beautifully with the surrounding décor. However, plants do more than vivify your home. The best indoor plants are also incredible agents for expelling chemical pollutants.
The number of chemicals in our homes produced by household cleaners, paint, rubber, adhesives—you name it—is more ubiquitous than you may think. In point of fact, our places of residence are filled with chemicals that we usually don't give a second thought. The most common of these chemicals, formaldehyde is commonly found in household products and building supplies, benzene is in plastics and resins, and trichloroethylene can be seen in adhesives.
Plants add balance to the manmade products in your home, but seven in particular clear chemical agents with amazing effectiveness. Keep reading for the best indoor plants for clean air.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a pretty magical little plant, and its medicinal properties are well known for treating minor cuts and burns. But there's another function to add to aloe vera's already impressive skills: air purifier. When it comes to clearing formaldehyde from your home, aloe vera is particularly adept.
Fern
Environmental scientist B.C. Wolverton's How to Grow Fresh Air names ferns as another great plant for removing formaldehyde from the home. On top of that, they are resilient plants that require little attention; indirect sunlight is best, and they can be watered just enough to keep the soil moist. Ferns also are nontoxic, making them some of the best indoor plants for pet owners.
Bromeliad
Looking for the best indoor plant for clean air that will also add a splash of color? Bromeliads are a fantastic option. A study on volatile organic compounds showed that bromeliads were effective in removing six different chemicals, including acetone and benzene. Not only that, in that same study, the bromeliad managed to clear 80% of pollutants in a 12-hour period.
Dracaena
Dracaena is a tall, vivid plant—a great statement-making option for your home, characterized by the vibrant red stripes that mark the leaves' edges. When it comes to purifying, dracaena is particularly skilled at removing common toxins. It is also a low-maintenance plant, surviving in low light and needing water only when the soil starts to feel dry.
English Ivy
There are plenty of reasons to love English ivy, including that it is an easy plant to take care of—just provide a bright room and water when the soil gets dry. But English ivy also tops NASA's list as the most effective plant for removing benzene from the home, while also efficiently removing formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and other pollutants.
Palm
Don't underestimate the purifying powers of the palm. This plant topped NASA's list for being the most effective at removing formaldehyde. The bamboo palm in particular is adept at giving your home a little bit of fresh air. Plus, it's a nontoxic option for pet owners.
Peace Lily
Peace lilies not only make for elegant additions to your home but are also some of the most effective indoor plants for clean air, even removing chemicals like ammonia. They are also very hardy plants, so peace lilies are a great intro to plant care if you're still unsure about your green thumb.
Here are 6 steps to help you keep warm this winter in Bardstown, Shepherdsville, and Mount Washington!
Old man winter is rearing his ugly head. This generally means energy costs tend to rise as we attempt to keep ourselves nice and toasty. During the winter months, between 40 and 70 percent of home energy is wasted! Try out some of these affordable tips to both help out our environment as well as to keep a few dollars in your wallet. Mother Earth and your pocketbook will thank you.
1. Just turn it down
When you go to bed and work, turn your heater down a few degrees. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save about 10 percent per year on your heating bills by turning your thermostat down 10 – 15 degrees for eight hours.[1] It also gives you an excuse to break out those flannel sheets you love. Note that if you leave, you should never turn your heat completely off. Then, not only do you risk some frozen pipes (quite messy, I assure you from personal experience) but heating the house back up will actually use more energy and cost you more money than just turning it down a few. If you don’t want to spend the time and effort manually changing your thermostat every day, you can get a smart thermostat to manage it.
2. It’s curtains for you
A good way to keep those drafts from coming in the windows is to put up curtains. It is a relatively cheap way to keep the cold out and it also pretties up the room a bit. If you decide to go this route, make sure you open them during the day and close them at night. The sun is about 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Use some of that heat to warm up your home during the day while keeping the curtains closed to keep out the midnight cold. Plastic window covers are also a good way to seal up those windows.
3. Get a humidifier
Humidifiers add moisture to the air. Dry air tends to be colder than moist air because moist air will hold heat better. Plus, it helps sinuses and lets you breath easier while you are sleeping. If you like, you can also add a few house plants to the home. It pretties it up while also helping to keep the air moist.
4. Reverse it
While it may sound a little odd, running your ceiling fan the opposite directions can help your home. Since warm air tends to rise, turning your fan to the clockwise position pull air upwards in the middle of the room, pushing the hot air at the top of the room to the sides and down the wall. It can boost the temperature of your floor level by as much as five degrees.
5. Keep it clean
Replace or clean furnace filters as recommended. Dirty filters can restrict airflow and increase energy use. As the filter becomes clogged, the air cannot pass through the system which can cause overheating. Also, those who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues will find that a dirty air filter can greatly change the feel of the home. When you go into winter with a clean filter, your unit (and wallet) will stay nice and tidy.
6. Seal it
Pesky drafts can come in from every nook and cranny in your home. Weather stripping from your hardware store will only cost a couple of bucks. Place those in your windows and doors and cover up the bottoms of your doors with a towel or a door strip. Also, make sure your chimney is sealed nice and tight. It’s great to sit by the fire with a cup of cocoa, but when it’s not going, and your flute is left open, it’s like leaving a window wide open. If it doesn’t seal all of the way, block the airflow with an inflatable chimney balloon or towel.
The first snowflakes of winter are a magical sight for some and a chilling one for others. Many of us welcome this time to hibernate through the blizzardy days, but it’s important to stay active in the winter months. If you find yourself feeling cooped up with a case of cabin fever, now is a great time to begin planning some winter home improvement projects to keep you moving! For those fortunate to live in warmer climates, think of these easy winter home maintenance projects as a productive distraction from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Winter Home Improvement Projects to Lower Energy Costs
Switch to Energy-Efficient Lightbulbs and Fixtures
When winter hits, darker days and longer nights call for light fixtures, televisions and other electrical appliances to be used more frequently. Balance out your energy usage and reduce your monthly electric bill by investing in energy-smart light fixtures and lightbulbs.
Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) and light emitting diodes (LEDs) may cost a bit more than traditional halogen incandescent bulbs, but your return on investment is significant. According to energy.gov, an Energy Star-qualified CFL lasts 10 times longer and an LED lasts up to 25 times longer than conventional incandescent bulbs.
Not only will updated lighting save you money on energy costs in the long run, but these simple winter home maintenance projects may even help to lift your spirits and improve your mood, as many of us experience seasonal affective disorder during the winter months.
Install a Programmable Thermostat
Customizing a home heating schedule can save money on energy costs. When away from home or during the night, a programmable thermostat helps to prevent excessive heating and energy use.
Our world runs on technology and as such, it’s only fitting that homeowners start updating their homes with smart features. Home automation allows people to remotely control household features, like lights, thermostats, security systems and sprinklers, from their smartphone or tablet.
Smart lighting is a great update to include in your remodel. You can use your smartphone to switch your lights on and off, change the brightness or hue and save money on your next utility bill.
Proper insulation in attics, crawl spaces and basements is the key to reducing heating bills. In older homes, many of us, almost literally, throw money out the window due to the amount of heat we let escape through cracks and crevices.
Seal up older windows by caulking cracks or holes where there is a noticeable draft. Window insulator kits can be purchased at your local home improvement store to help save on energy costs. To manage drafts from doors, weather strips are an easy fix.
Declutter Your Basement or Closet
While we long for the summer days of outdoor activities, we might as well take time to focus on the inside. I like to look at decluttering your home as “pulling the weeds,” but indoors.
Your basement, attic or overflowing closet are perfect places to start, but not all at once. Dedicate yourself to one space at a time and conquer it before moving on. Free yourself of unwanted or unneeded items and organize the rest with shelving or storage bins.
Our Ridiculously Thorough Guide to Decluttering Your Home provides expert tips to help lighten your load. Plus, you never know what you might find to sell for some extra cash! For clutter situations that go beyond hosting a garage sale, we suggest renting a dumpster to dispose of extraneous items.
Update Textiles and Fabrics
Accenting your sofa with a soft throw blanket and plush pillows is an easy fix that can go a long way. Let the creative juices flow and extend your color scheme to the window treatments. Curtains or shades not only add a cozy quality to a room, but also help to block cold drafts from windows.
If you’re seeking a more involved winter home improvement project, installing new carpet in bedrooms or family rooms will keep your hands busy and your feet warm. For those who prefer hardwood or tile floors, decorating with warm-patterned accent or area rugs will add much-needed comfort to your space for the winter months.
These 5 home maintenance projects will have you and your home prepared for even the coldest days of winter. If you have any other winter projects on your to-do list, let us know in the comments below. Stay warm!
Are you moving from a Bardstown, Mt. Washington, or Shepherdsville home to upgrade to a new HOME from water, mold, or fire damage? SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties presents you this article from Adrienne Holland. Read on to discover what that ONE thing she wished she had known about moving into a new home.
The 1 Thing I Wish I Had Known About Moving Into a New Home
When I became a homeowner several years ago, I thought I had everything I needed to begin my journey: boxes for packing, friends and family for moving, and of course, my design ideas. I didn't realize I was missing the most important thing ever new homeowner needs: patience.
Facing Reality
After moving in, I quickly realized a cold, hard truth: this ain't gonna happen overnight. What was once enough to decorate an entire apartment could barely fill two rooms in my new place. It was time to prioritize and consider three important questions: what items did I need, what rooms did I use the most, and what was my budget?
Focusing My Efforts
Starting out, I only had the budget to perfect three rooms, so I strategically focused my efforts on the spaces that I used the most: my sunroom-slash-living room, my kitchen, and also my guest bathroom. After I narrowed down my priorities, I made a list of "to-dos," including items like repainting the walls, getting decorative accents to fill a bookcase, and buying a new shower curtain. Then, I ever so slowly started checking them off my list.
Embracing the Process
I'm now going on four years in the house, and it has definitely come a long way since those very first few weeks. The sunroom-slash-living room is complete as well as the guest bathroom, but the kitchen still has a couple items patiently waiting to be marked off. Coming to the realization that designing a home is far from a linear process has been one of my biggest takeaways. It evolves as my priorities change and mature.
Acceptance
I've learned that the goal really isn't to finish a room. It is to appreciate the work it takes to make a space your own and to enjoy the process rather than to wish it away. There are still days where I catch myself thinking, "If I just had a rug in here, I would be so much happier with this room." But these thoughts are fleeting because I know that I will get there in time. Loving my house at every stage has been quite the experience, but I can say now that patience has helped me to cherish my in-the-works home more than I ever thought I could.
Bardstown residents: we do water damage restoration!
Bardstown residents and nearby residents; SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is prides itself in being fast at responding to your call for water damage in Bardstown, Springfield, Coxs Creek, and nearby cities. We can usually be at the site within 45 minutes after taking your call!
If you have a flooded basement, call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties! We will take some pertinent information to assess your situation before we leave the shop so we can be prepared for your disaster.
Once on site, we gather more information, signatures, and photos of the damage. We use these photos to help us and the insurance company so we be sure to put your home back Like It Never Even Happened!
Each year, the Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters — the majority of which are home fires. Whether a disaster impacts a single family or a hundred, the Red Cross is there when people need our help the most. The Red Cross doesn’t just help families recover from disaster; they also prepare communities before home fires strike. Believe it or not, home fires kill more Americans than all other disasters combined. The Red Cross is working to prevent these needless losses through the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign.
Join SERVPRO Industries in support of the American Red Cross by making a gift to support Home Fire Relief. Your gift to Home Fire Relief will support communities like ours nationwide by providing families and communities with the lifesaving tools and information they need to prevent and prepare for home fires, as well as offer critical recovery services to those impacted by home fires. Together, we can better prepare our community for home fires and support families who experience them. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sunday, Oct. 9, 2016 — Does your home have a smoke alarm? Do you know how old it is?
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the answer is likely yes: NFPA research shows that most American homes have at least one. If you’re like most people, you probably don’t know with certainty how old it is.
A recent survey conducted by NFPA revealed that only a small percentage of people know how old their smoke alarms are, or how often they need to be replaced. That lack of awareness is a concern for Bardstown Fire Department and NFPA, along with fire departments throughout the country, because smoke alarms don’t last forever.
“Time and again, I’ve seen the life-saving impact smoke alarms can have in a home fire, but I’ve also seen the tragedy that can result when smoke alarms aren’t working properly,” says Todd Spalding, Captain of the Bardstown Fire Department. “That’s why we’re making a concerted effort to educate Bardstown residents about the overall importance of smoke alarms, and that they do have a life limit.”
The NFPA’s national fire alarm code requires smoke alarms be replaced at least every 10 years. Because the public is often unaware of this requirement, many homes have smoke alarms well past their expiration date, which can put the home’s occupants at increased risk.
As the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years, NFPA is promoting this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Don’t Wait – Check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years,” to better educate the public about the critical importance of knowing how old their smoke alarms are and replacing them once they’re 10 years old. Fire Prevention Week is October 9-15, 2016.
To find out how old your smoke alarm is and its expiration date, simply look on the back of the alarm where the date of manufacture is marked. The smoke alarm should be replaced 10 years from that date (not the date of purchase).
The Bardstown Fire Department also says smoke alarms should be tested monthly, and that batteries should be replaced once a year or when they begin to chirp, signaling that they’re running low.
For more information on smoke alarms and this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign visit www.firepreventionweek.org or contact the Bardstown Fire Department at 502-349-6562.
It’s that time of year again, the kiddos are headed back to class and we bid farewells to our summer break.
SERVPRO specializes in professional deep cleaning. Over the summer, the kids have spilt drinks into the carpet or your upholstery, tracked in mud on your carpet after a summer rainstorm, or maybe didn't take the dog out like they were supposed to; so now you have pet stains in your carpet.
The residential cleaning services performed by SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson County professionals will not only ease the burden of the constant maintenance of your home, but will also create a safe, clean and comfortable living environment for you and your family.
As the kids get back to school, give yourself the gift of a peaceful home with a deep clean from SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties. We're just a phone call away! 502-957-1956 We service Louisville, Hillview, Shepherdsville, Brooks, Mt. Washington, Bardstown, Springfield, Bloomfield and the areas in between!
The sooner you respond to a water emergency on your property, the less the damage will cost you. It only takes 48 hours for mold to grow, which could be a costly disaster to your wallet and possibly to your health if it goes untreated. Go with the team that’s faster to any-sized disaster.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is here to help! We have specially trained employees for water damage restoration and mold remediation. We service any area in or close to Louisville, Shepherdsville, Hillview, Brooks, Mt. Washington, Bardstown, Springfield, Bloomfield, etc. Call us any time. We are here to take your call 24/7. We have a special emergency crew on standby to go out at a moment's notice. When the technicians arrive, we will let you know the plan of action before we begin work.
Yesterday, our technicians from SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties were at our new building on Hwy 44 E in Mt. Washignton to begin the renonvations!
Phil and Mary Beth, part of our cleaning and mitigation crew, were cleaning the attic and removing the old insultation and cleaning off the mold. Currently, there isn't any electric in the building, so the next step is to hire an electrician turn on temporary electric and to run the wiring. The building has been unoccupied for a few years.
There's a lot of work to do that will take several months to complete. In the meantime, we will continue working from our Shepherdsville location. Once renovations are complete, we will close the Shepherdsville location and relocate to Mt. Washington.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is so excited to move to Mt. Washington and be a part of your community.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties would like to give you some tips on how to protect your home while on vacation.
Prevent damage from power surges: It would really be bad if you come home and find many of your valuable electronic appliances and items damaged or destroyed due to a power surge. Consider unplugging the computer, TV, stereo and other electronics. Conversely, you could connect such items to a good surge protector. Just make sure that it is something which has a good rating and can withstand a large load of power.
Be careful what you say: Going on vacation is exciting and we all want to share with others about our upcoming trip. But try not to post about it on Facebook, Twitter, or on the Internet at all. This includes “checking in” to places on Facebook or Foursquare. Someone may see the post and decide to target your home while you’re away.
Alert your alarm company: If you do happen to have a security system, notify the company that you will be away. This is especially needed if you are going on an extended trip. Of course, it goes almost without saying to make sure that the alarm is set properly before you leave!
Protect your pipes: Especially if you live in an area where cold weather is a possibility, make sure that your pipes are protected. In vulnerable areas like the attic, basement and crawl spaces, make sure the pipes are well insulated. In such a situation, it is also very important to have a trusted friend, family member or neighbor stop by every so often just to turn on faucets to make extra sure that the pipes do not freeze.
Turn up or down the thermostat: You do not want to turn the thermostat off completely. In the winter, about 55 degrees seems to be the cut off point and 80 degrees is a good setting during the summer.
Water heater: Almost no one remembers to turn down the temperature on their water heater. This can be an excellent way to save electricity as well.
Lock everything: This is a no-brainer, but one that people often forget. Many homes are left unlocked at all hours of the day. You’re not protecting your home if you’re not locking the doors. Burglars look at an unlocked door as an invitation to enter and take what they want. Remember to lock all doors, windows, and your garage.
Secure valuables: Never leave anything of value out in plain sight. If you have not already done so, now may be a good time to consider placing any jewelry, extra cash or other valuables in a safe deposit box or even a secure hidden safe within the house. Nothing should ever be visible from any window.
Lock and secure the garage: Secure the door and any other entrances to the garage. Do this even if there is no way to enter the house from the garage (if there is an entrance to the house, then this step is even more important). There have been numerous robberies where the thieves simply grabbed what they could from the garage and then took off.
Outside spare keys: Do not leave any spare keys outside the house. All burglars know the trick of keeping a spare key under the welcome mat. Actually, if you are going away for more than a day or two, you would be well served to pick up any key that you have hidden in an outside ‘??safe’? spot. Consider leaving a spare key with the same trusted friend, neighbor or family member (possibly all three) who is going to be regularly checking on things.
Remember your mail and packages: A stuffed mailbox, newspapers on the lawn, and packages at the doorstep are other ways to tell a burglar, “Hey there! Come on in, I’m not home so take what you’d like!” Ask a neighbor to retrieve your mail, newspapers, and packages and hold them for you until you arrive home. Alternatively, if someone is already house sitting for you, ask them to do this for you as well. If you can’t find anyone to collect your mail for you, ask the post office and package delivery services to hold your packages until you are back home. Below are the links to FedEx, UPS and USPS.FedEx – Request a Vacation Hold UPS – Place a Vacation Hold USPS – Hold Mail Service
6 Tips to Help You Survive Living Through a Remodel
Remodeling your home can wreak havoc on your allergies. Follow the tips to help you survive.
Allergies will most likely be triggered when construction dust is everywhere in your home during a remodel. Demolition and drywall sanding can cause airborne dust that can be hard to keep under control. If you are planning on living in your home during a remodel, you must be prepared for due diligence and what you are willing to tolerate. Our technicians at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties will communicate with you on the next steps and what to expect.
Unless you are tearing your home down to the studs, most people who choose to live in their house during construction can survive the process with careful planning. Don’t wait until the job starts to assign your designated living space and get situated within your home. You also have to be prepared to get ahead of the dust before the remodel begins. Here are the ways I help contain the dust and keep my clients’ homes clean. Use these tips and pass them onto your general contractor.
1. Pack Like You’re Moving: Your house should be clean before the remodel begins. Get rid of everything except the things you want to keep. Pack like you’re moving. Wrap and store belongings such as knick-knacks in boxes, because if construction dust gets on them, they are a nightmare to clean. They will feel like new again once the remodel is complete and they are unpacked.
2. Create a Zone: During a remodel, homeowners and pets must stay away from the construction area. People often forget that a railing is not there anymore and they can accidently fall. For the safety of the homeowner, the work area should be blocked off. We create a zone by building temporary plywood walls with doors on them. We build a separate entrance so that the crew is not crossing paths with the residents and we also blow the dust off the workers clothes with an air hose before and after they enter the home.
3. Zip The Walls: Since the workers have to walk in and out of the room being remodeled during construction, I find that using a zipper instead of a tape entryway is better. We attach plastic sheets to painter poles and place a long zipper at the opening. This creates a re-sealable entrance and exit. The crew can enter the construction area easily through a zipper entrance and it will keep the dust contained in the work area. When the homeowner comes to check out the construction progress, we supply them with a mask and stop work immediately. 4. Set Up a Temporary Kitchen: When doing a kitchen remodel from scratch, I help homeowners set up a temporary kitchen somewhere else in their home. I have seen people do this in the living room, den or garage. Set up a table with your microwave, toaster oven, toaster, coffee maker and a small refrigerator.
5. Broom Sweep Clean: Each day at the end of the job, we make sure that the rooms that were worked in are clean and spotless. We also clean as we move from room to room after completing the work. We use sawdust with light oil called ZEPs HD Sweeping Compound. This compound stops small dust particles from flying around while sweeping. We put it on the floor before we sweep. Once the dust is swept into a pile, it can be vacuumed with a Shop-Vac or shoveled away.
6. Spray Down The Dust: Once the sawdust in the house has been contained, we put it into buckets. When transferring the buckets to a dumpster or trash truck outside, dust can get everywhere as the workers walk through the house. It can also blow around in the air outside and get on everything, including a neighbors’ car. We take careful steps to contain it by using a fine mist spray pump to apply water on top of the dust after its put into the buckets.
To find out more information about Julie Laughton Design Build, visit her website Julielaughton.com.
Here is an after photo where we stripped and waxed the floor.
Most people think of SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties being the leader in water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, and mold remediation. But we also offer professional cleaning services for residential and commercial buildings. We can do a deep clean to your home or office, post construction clean up, and trauma cleaning.
We recently received a call from Lifepoint Church in Louisville that their church was vandalized. The vandals sprayed the whole church with fire extinguishers and the fine dust remanence was everywhere! SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson County quickly arrived to clean up so church services could be held on the following Sunday.
Here's what Jerry, from the Flynn Group had to say:
"SERVPRO of Bullitt & Nelson Counties arrived promptly and delivered on their promises. The techs were quick, efficient and courteous. Our church was vandalized in the middle of the week and SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties thoroughly cleaned up the building without interruption to the Sunday services."
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties will soon be in Mount Washington, Kentucky!
SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry and our professionals are faster to any size disaster. We will be in your Mount Washington neighborhood soon!
Whether you need emergency flood damage restoration or top-to-bottom home cleaning, you can trust SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties to make your house feel like home again. We have the training, experience, and equipment to quickly get your home looking its best. Our residential services include water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, storm damage restoration, professional cleaning services.
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is moving from our Shepherdsville location and coming to Mt. Washington by the end of December 2016. We purchased a building on Highway 44 East, near the Mt. Washington Mc Donald's.
We are looking forward to being a part of the Mount Washington community. Call us, we're not far! We're here to help. 502-957-1956
A professionally trained SERVPRO technician is cleaning the soot off the walls.
How are we so effective at restoring fire damage? Because we follow a carefully perfected process with professionally trained technicians.
Call SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties if you have fire, smoke, or soot damage.
Every fire damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency:
Step 1: Emergency Contact
Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service
Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing
Step 7: Restoration
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is here to help. We are a 24 hour emergency service. We will be at your house within 2 hours of your call. We're here to help. Call us 502-957-1956
Gribbins had their loss at the end of February 2016 and the work was completed by the beginning of May 2016.
We received some of the nicest compliments from the office manager and area manager of Gribbins Insulation! "I google searched 'fire restoration' and your franchise popped up. I am so impressed with the time I got off the phone with you and how fast you showed up and got started!. We had our loss at the end of February and Ross said we'd be moved back in by Derby time and sure enough, we were moving our stuff back in our offices Derby week!" --Kyle Forrester, Area Manager
"I was shocked at how fast the work was done. We never lost productivity and SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties always delivered on their promises." -- Pam B., Office Manager
SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties can service businesses and residential. If you experience a loss in Mt. Washington, Shepherdsville, Hillview, Brooks, Bardstown, Springfield, or nearby areas, please call us! We're here to help! 502-957-1956
Water! Water! Water! We love water! We use it for nearly everything from cleaning to recreational fun. It's not so fun when it comes unwelcomed in your home or business in the form of a burst water pipe, a failed sump pump, a leaking refrigerator line, or any other form of disaster!
If your business or residence has water damage in Bardstown or nearby areas, Mt. Washington, Shepherdsville, Brooks or Hillview, SERVPRO of Bullittt & N. Nelson Counties is here to help and will be at your place within 2 hours of receiving your call. We also can service areas outside of our usual operating areas.
We work directly with your insurance company and manage the whole job from start to finish. Our professionally trained technicians are skilled in water damage and mold remediation.
On April 28, 2016, it seemed as if we were struck by Mayhem! Our crews were finishing up a commercial and residential fire jobs. We had four back to back water losses within a two day period from Bardstown to Shepherdsville!
Our crews quickly responded to each customer within an hour of receiving their call and promptly scheduled cleanup within a few hours after talking with the customer. Our crews worked well into the evening hours to ensure each and every customer was serviced and satisfied.
We have a committed team of professional technicians at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties that are trained and experienced in commercial and residential water and fire loss and mold remediation. If you experience a loss, please call our office and Brandi will dispatch a team to you right away! 502-957-1956
Charred carpet from where the heater was setting. There was a sleeping child just a few feet away from the heater that was on fire!
SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties were called to a house fire in Hillview, Kentucky. The fire was started by a faulty electrical heater in a child's bedroom. The fire scorched the carpet and smoke damage was in the insulation and on the whole upper level of the home.
Our team quickly arrived on the scene to begin the cleanup process. We first had to remove the smoke damaged insulation and the contents to be cleaned. Then we removed the carpet and padding to be replaced.
Just after a few short weeks, we had it restored back to new again.
If your home or business suffers a fire, please call SERVPRO of Bullitt and N. Nelson Counties to help you. We are in your neighborhood and will be there within 2 hours of receiving your call!
If your business or residence in Mt. Washington, Brooks, Hillview, Shepherdsville, Bardstown, Springfield, or Louisville suffers from fire or water damage, SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is here to help. Call Brandi she will dispatch a professional SERVPRO team to you within 2 hours of receiving your call!
We are a disaster restoration company. SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties is ready for whatever you bring us in Shepherdsville, Brooks, Hillview, Mt. Washington, Bardstown, Bloomfield and the nearby cities!
Homeowners and Business Owners, if disaster strikes, call us!
Think your Monday was bad! How about a call on your way into the office from the secretary that your office is on FIRE! Literally flames and sparks were shooting out from the warehouse caused by an electrical outlet overheating and insultation was stuffed in front of it. It was a perfect recipe for disaster.
Well, for most of us, it might be cool to go back home and get into bed but if you're the business owner, this could be detrimental to your business.
Did you know that 80% of businesses go out of business when there is a fire or water catastrophe due to non production? We understand at SERVPRO of Bullitt & N. Nelson Counties that time is money.
We received the call just before 10 am and we were on the scene within 30 minutes to talk to the business manager. Then within 2 hours, we already had a crew working to begin the cleanup process. Follow us on Facebook to see our latest updates on the fire at Gribbins Insulation in Hillview, Kentucky.
24/7 Emergency Service
