3 Precautions To Take Before A Fire

9/1/2023 (Permalink)

Fires start and spread quickly, especially with the flammable items that fill our homes. Do you want to be caught in a fire, unprepared? Take a close read of the points below. Go over them a few times because your pet's life may be at stake.  3 Precautions To Take Before A Fire 

Ensure your pet's bed isn’t near any items that are highly flammable. Household items like curtains or chemicals are dangerously fast to go up in flames. Keep your pet's bed(s) near easily escapable areas, such as the front or back doors (we know this might sound crazy in day to day). 

Place a leash near the front door. When a fire breaks out in your home every second is crucial. By placing their leash near the door you will know exactly where to go in the frantic moments. This saves more confusion when you’re outside, trying to keep your pets close to you.  

Train your pet(s) with basic (but vital) commands. It’s vitally important that your pet knows basic commands like “come”. This simple but effective step will also save time when leaving the house. It may also help you avoid having to search for your pet.  3 Simple Steps To Take After The Fire  

Place your pet on a leash. Not only will this help them feel secure, but pets commonly try to escape when they feel stressed. Having them on a leash will reduce the risk of them running away, or getting injured outside the house.  

Give your pet water. It’s likely your pet will become hot and dehydrated after being around a fire. Make sure they have access to drinking water once you have left the house. This will help stop them from becoming overheated.   

Make sure your pet is okay. Look and feel for any burns or injuries. It is recommended that you take your pet to a local vet for a general health assessment as soon as possible.  

We hope that this has helped and you have found value. If you have any further questions please call us on.

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

304-291-3434

Here 24/7 For Your Families Needs.

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

Let's be real:

Emergencies don’t wait to happen on a day that’s convenient for you. A house fire or an office flood won’t wait until your birthday is over or until Christmas Day comes to an end. It's why we at SERVPRO of Morgantown have to stand ready for when tragedy strikes, whenever that may be. It doesn’t matter if it’s Easter morning or the night of New Year’s Eve. Life happens, and both the good and the bad come along with it.

At SERVPRO, we want to make sure whatever nature might through your way is taken care of properly! Whether it’s water damage, fire damage, storm damage, or an issue with mold, we are ready to help you, and “Faster to any size disaster” at that! That’s why we are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year.

Facing a disaster can be terrifying and dealing with its effects is very stressful. We hope to diminish the stress you could be facing with our guarantee. We know the importance of reliability. We are a very trusted and known company , and have been in business for years. As a family-owned business, we pride ourselves on fast response, doing great work, and taking care of our customers! If you ever face a disaster, day or night, we are here to help, 365 days a year!

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

304-291-3434

Weather Damage To Your Home.

7/7/2023 (Permalink)

In any type of weather there are lots of different issues that could cause damage to your home;

Roof damage is one of those. Damage due to storms is the most typical, but there are several things that COULD cause the damage to your roof some being more visible than others.  

It is always good practice to have your roof inspected every 10-12 years, unless there has been a specific issue that may have caused a reason to check it sooner such as a severe storm, hail, or some other sort of natural disaster. Unfortunately, when your roof becomes damaged it can lead to bigger issues that may ultimately cause water damage to the interior of your home.    Here we mention a few things to look for when you are inspecting your roof:     Loose or missing shingles: this could be caused by high winds, improper installation, or simply wearing out over exposure to the elements through the years. Loose nails can also leave a hole in the shingle that water can find its way through as well.  

Poor installation of the flashing. "Flashing" is the metal that is placed in the sections where the roof meets the walls, or in the valleys. This must be installed properly to divert water from the roof.    

Gutters that are not placed with the right pitch, or that have seams that are not sealed properly can also cause water to back up and then overflow into the house causing water damage to ceilings and/or walls. Not having gutter guards to keep leaves and debris from collecting in the gutters can cause overflow of water that can result in damage to your roof and other areas of your home as well.    

Rotted fascia or soffit can also be an area that allows water to intrude.   

If you suspect that you may have roof damage causing water damage to your home please feel free to contact us at  and we will be happy to assist you. SERVPRO® of Morgantown can also supply emergency tarping and board up if the need may arise.  SERVPRO® of y will be there for all of your home repairs or accidents.

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

304-291-3434 

The 4 Key Factors in Commercial Restoration

6/9/2023 (Permalink)

The 4 Key Factors in Commercial Restoration

Residential restoration and commercial restoration are very different types of projects. Residential is very emotional for the customer and family that resides in the home and also is very personal due to the contents within the home having very sentimental attachments.

Commercial restoration can also be emotional for the clients but due to their being more stakeholders involved in the loss things can get much more complex. In commercial restoration we have business interruption, customer impact, Inventory issues and contents maintenance. For the commercial restoration process to go smoothly the 4 key factors are: safety, stability, continuity and communication.

Factor 1: Safety 

• Safety is the paramount concern when it comes to commercial restoration projects because nothing is more important than the people. There are a variety of safety issues when on a commercial restoration project including mold exposure, hazardous materials, structural weaknesses, utility hazards including gas and electrical and construction related safety hazards. With all of these factors together the risk is just too great for secondary damage and additional loss if safety is not at the forefront of the project. Safety must not only be the first step in commercial restoration but must also be a key factor in every stage of the project.

Factor 2: Stability 

• Stabilizing the loss is the first priority so that we can limit any secondary damage to the building or property. This included stopping the source of the water intrusion, putting out the fire and tarping up the roof and areas of the house that are exposed to the elements. As soon as the disaster is contained the team can begin the process of pre-cleaning, water extraction, dehumidification, salvaging contents and setting up various levels of containment around the property area is all part of the emergency services phase.  

Factor 3: Communication  

• The most important thing in any job big or small is always going to be communication. As a restoration company your communication should be on point with all of the parties involved including the client, adjusters, clerks, agents and all other POI’s. Commercial restoration can be a very fluid and moving science with scope changes, directive changes and client requests so the restoration company must have good communication. The company must be able to make split second decisions and communicate that to their crew instantly with good follow up and leadership from the technicians. Solid communication will allow everyone to prepare, plan and adapt to the changing needs of a large project.  

Factor 4: Business Continuity 

• Businesses need some assurances that they will be back up and running as a company very soon following a loss. As a company SERVPRO of Morgantown will do everything in their power to make sure that our commercial clients are back up and running their business in some capacity as soon as possible. Clients who don’t feel that their restoration project managers are making these efforts for business continuity will replace those companies quickly. Expediting the restoration and the reconstruction needs of a commercial client ensures that they can get back to normal operations sooner rather than later.  

I hope this little blog has given you a little tad-bit of what the actuality of what commercial restoration can be like and its differences from residential restoration. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to call us at SERVPRO of Morgantown at 304-291-3434.

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

304-291-3434

Property Damage from Storms

5/12/2023 (Permalink)

As we head into the summer months, West Virginia storms may be on their way, which can cause damage to your home. While we have experienced a dry spring, you never know when a sudden storm could form in our area. Below are some different ways a storm can cause property damage.  

Roof Damage  

• High winds and water are the perfect combination to damage your roof. Whether it is tearing off shingles or opening a crack that creates a leak, your roof is the first and foremost concern after a violent storm. Additionally, trees and branches could be brought down during the storm, causing obviously devastating damage.  

Siding 

• Similar to your roof, wind and rain can tear siding off your home or create leaks. After a storm, walk around the perimeter of your home and make sure nothing has come loose or been torn off.  

Foundation Damage  

• While you may not think about your foundation being damaged in a storm, a storm with a large volume of rain can cause flooding into your basement. Rain can sink down and pool up next to your foundation, increasing the pressure of water against your foundation wall, which could result in cracks, shifting, sinking, and bowed foundation walls. 

These are just a few ways that storms can damage your home. If you ever have damage that you want professionally inspected, give us a call and we will see what we can do to help you get your home back to normal.

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

309-291-3434

4 Reasons a Drain Cleaner Might Not Be the Best Solution

4/28/2023 (Permalink)

4 Reasons a Drain Cleaner Might Not Be the Best Solution

4 Reasons a Drain Cleaner Might Not Be the Best Solution

Plumbing problems can range from a horrendous sewage backup to a simple clogged drain. The former will likely require the services of a professional disaster response franchise, while the latter might be something you can tackle on your own. There are many ways to get a drain working again, some better than others. Though reaching right away for a drain cleaner seems like a good idea, a closer look suggests pouring chemicals into your pipes should be approached with caution. These reasons clarify the dangers of resorting to chemicals.

1. Chemicals Are Harmful to People.

• Drain cleaners are toxic to humans and to pets. Merely breathing in the chemicals can cause stinging in the eyes and discomfort in the mouth. The chemicals can also burn exposed skin.

2. They Are Dangerous to the Environment.

• Chemicals that go down the drain in your home or business wind up in lakes, streams, and groundwater. These chemicals are toxic enough to kill fish, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. There are less harmful ways to clear a clogged drain, including mechanical and biological options.

3. They Are Tough on Pipes.

• Chemical drain cleaners work by creating enough heat to burn through substances causing the blockage. Whether the source of the heat is lye, bleach, acid, or some other substance, the chemicals can harm older, weaker pipes and plastic pipes.

4. Chemicals Don't Always Work.

• In situations where the drain is completely blocked, chemicals often just sit in the pipes creating heat and not clearing the drain. Oil and grease buildup in the drain is another occasion not conducive to being cleaned with chemicals.

Whether your home or business has a clogged drain or a major sewage problem, SERVPRO professionals are Faster to Any Size Disaster and are trained to remediate water damage. They are experienced in sewage cleaning methods that restore a building to excellent condition again. The franchise has been helping people recover from fires, floods, and other disasters for over 50 years.

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

304-291-3434

Grilling and Safety.

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

Grilling and Safety.

Grill season is in full swing and you know what that means,  the possibility for grill fires. Anything from grease fires to hot temps can cause problems when grilling. SERVPRO of Morgantown has some tips to keep your home and family safe this summer!

1. Make sure your grill is at least 6 feet away from any structures.  If you are too close to the side of your house or deck this could allow for heat and fire to cause damage to your home. 
2. Regularly clean your grill.  Always clean your grill after every use and clean out the drip pan.  You can use any grill safe cleaner.  Effectively cleaning your grill can cause any unwanted flare-ups.
3. Always have an extinguisher on hand.  If you don’t have an extinguisher, you can always use baking soda.  Always have the baking soda near your station when grilling for a quick response.  If you ever have any issues with your grill and your property, call SERVPRO of Fayette at 304-291-3434.

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

304-291-3434

Types of Foundations

3/10/2023 (Permalink)

Foundation Types

3 Types of Foundations:

Pros and Cons

The foundation of a structure is the load bearing portion, typically built below ground.  This portion serves 3 purposes. 

• Support the structure  
• Keep out groundwater  
• Function as a barrier to water and soil vapor 

But, when deciding on the foundation of your home, it’s important to know the pros and cons of each option. 

Slab Foundations: These are the most cost efficient as well as the most common of the choices. 

The process is simple, the slab starts with concrete footing poured 24 inches below projected finish grade. 

Then concrete blocks are placed on top of the footers, internal piping is placed, then rock filler is added, and four inches of concrete poured on top. The advantages of a slab foundation are that they are low maintenance and the least expensive option. 

The disadvantages are that there is a higher potential for expensive repairs because plumbing is placed below the slab. 

This means if there is a problem, the concrete would have to be broken to reach the issues at hand.  Another disadvantage is that a slab foundation has minimal protection from storms and bad weather. 

Crawl Space Foundations:

Homes with crawl space foundations are raised a few feet off the ground. 

As with slab foundations, footing is placed, and concrete blocks are placed to create the support for the walls. 

The advantages of a crawlspace foundation are the easy access for repairs to plumbing, electrical, piping, and ductwork. 

A second advantage is warmer floors.  Because the floor is elevated and the underlying space is conditioned, the floors tend to be much warmer than a concrete slab.

The disadvantages are that crawl spaces are prone to moisture. 

It is important to keep an eye on your crawlspace to ensure you have proper insulation and ventilation. 

Even with cutting edge vapor barriers there can still be potential for mold and fungi to grow due to increased moisture. 

A second disadvantage is there is, like with slab foundations, little to no protection from storm and weather. 

Basement Foundations: 

A basement is an eight-foot hole that ends in a concrete slab. 

In the past, basements were built with cinder blocks, but they were prone to structural failures and leaks over time. 

Nowadays, basements are built with poured concrete walls, which have improved the structural integrity on the foundation over time. 

The advantages of a basement foundation are the extended square footage, easy access for repairs, and storm protection. 

Having the additional space at a much lower cost per square foot than other parts of the house can create extra living space or entertainment. 

As with crawl space foundations, there is easy access for repairs. 

However, unlike slab and crawl space foundations, there is protection from storms and weather for you and the residents of the home.  The disadvantages of a basement foundation are increased costs. 

Because of the added materials, labor, and square footage, the costs on installation are the most time consuming and expensive. 

Another disadvantage is lack of natural light. 

Because the foundation is underground, there are no possible options for windows, unless you create a walkout. Ultimately, the decision on which foundation you choose is personal preference. 

There is no foundation type that “holds up” better than another.  However, if you do experience flooding or mold issues in your Morgantown home, give SERVPRO of Morgantown a call at 304-291-3434!!

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

304-291-3434

Emergency Kits and Natural Disasters

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency Kits and Natural Disasters

Natural disasters are unexpected and destructive. It is important to plan for the next natural disaster accordingly. You never know when a disaster can strike which is why it is important to prepare a kit for your home, work, and vehicle.

According to Ready.gov, you should have the following in your emergency kit: 

- One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation

- At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert Flashlight

- First aid kit

- Extra batteries

-Whistle to signal for help

-Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place

-Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

-Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

-Manual can opener for food

-Local maps

-Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery.

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

724-628-3022

Frostbite Signs and Symptoms

12/7/2022 (Permalink)

Frostbite Signs and Symptoms

Frostbite Symptoms  Have you ever been exposed to freezing weather conditions and noticed your skin becoming very cold and red, and after that numb, hard, and pale? If you have, then you have experienced the first signs of frostbite! SERVPRO® of Morgantown responds to storm damage emergencies in and other cities in , and we want you to stay safe and healthy this winter season.  

Here is some information on frostbite and when to see a doctor from the Mayo Clinic:   

Signs and symptoms of frostbite include:    At first, cold skin and a prickling feeling    Numbness   

Red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow skin    Hard or waxy-looking skin   

Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness   

Blistering after rewarming, in severe cases   

Seek medical attention for frostbite if you experience:  Signs and symptoms of superficial or deep frostbite  

Increased pain, swelling, redness or discharge in the area that was frostbitten  

Fever   

New, unexplained symptoms    

Get emergency medical help if you suspect hypothermia, a condition in which your body loses heat faster than it can be produced. Signs and symptoms of hypothermia include:  

• Intense shivering  
• Slurred speech   
• Drowsiness and loss of coordination  

Call Us!   

When your home or business has a storm damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Morgantown has a team of storm restoration technicians on call to serve you 24-hours a day. Call us at 304-291-3434. We’ll restore your storm damage in Morgantown, “Like it never even happened.  

SERVPRO of Morgantown is Independently Owned and Operated.

Tracie "Dusty" Nichols

304-291-3434