Things to do for Water Damage until Help Arrives in Austin & Albert Lea

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business in Austin & Albert Lea has water damage, you can do some things before help arrives.

Make sure that the building or home is safe.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea Wants You to Remember:

• Waterlogged materials are very heavy
• Wet surfaces are slippery
• Make sure electrical power is off before you handle devices
• Make sure you are standing in the dry area before you turn on the electric power

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea suggests that you:

• Remove excess water with mops and/or towels
• Wipe water from wood furniture or other items
• Remove wet cushions. Prop them upright to dry
• Hang up rugs to dry
• Place foil or blocks between furniture and wet carpeting
• Turn on dehumidifiers or air-conditioning if it is safe
• Move colored items from wet carpeting
• Move artwork to a safe, dry place
• Move loose items from the floor or counters
• Start drying items ASAP
• Remember that mold starts growing within 24 hours
• Stay away from rooms that have sagging ceilings

If disaster strikes your home, call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 507-396-6644. 

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Links:

www.fema.gov

Smoke Detectors can Save Lives in Austin & Albert Lea

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

Fire spreads fast once it is started so SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea wants to remind you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) can help save lives in your Austin & Albert Lea home. An alarm alerts you that danger is presently giving you time to get out.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea wants you to remember:

• Closed doors can slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.  That is good for reducing smoke damage and fire damage. That is also why you should have a smoke alarm in every sleeping room in the home
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
• Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
• Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
• Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
• Test the smoke alarms at least once a month.  There is a test button on the alarm
• When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years

If your Austin & Albert Lea home is not properly protected by a smoke detector, please install one. If you experience a fire, immediately vacate the home and then contact your fire department once you are outside the home. For fire clean-up or for more information please call us at 507-396-6644. 

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Smoke-alarms

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms/safety-messages-about-smoke-alarms

A force to be reckoned with.

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Mother nature. She is powerful. It doesn’t matter what you have planned for the day, she calls the shots. With little to no warning, she can bring floods, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes, and blizzards. Over the last 5 years, there have been over $742.1 billion in damages. 2021 was a record-breaking year, and there has been an increasing trend in high-cost disasters. The aftermath of catastrophic weather events can be overwhelming. It is important to keep safety in mind. There are many risks involved with attempting to regain access to your property after a major storm event. The property and the surrounding areas have to be deemed safe from downed wires, live electricity, contaminated water, and structural hazards. After safely regaining access to your property, it is important to board up openings and tarp roofs to prevent further damage. Turning off the water in the event an internal water leak is indicated will also help prevent any further internal or structural damages. SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea is ready to respond to our community in their time of need, offering emergency storm response services. After SERVPRO is dispatched to your location, we provide a scope of work for your home or business and begin to execute a plan to get your home or business back to preloss condition. We expertly extract excess water using pumps and our extraction equipment. Specialized drying equipment and dehumidification begin to take place to help stabilize the moisture in the environment. We use expert drying science and thorough documentation and monitoring to execute the restoration process quickly and safely, making it “Like it never even happened.”

What about water damage?

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can start to show in one hour. That’s why it’s important to remove as much water and moisture as you can in a flooded bathroom, as quickly as you can. It’s vital that you tackle water damage quickly before damp and mold issues occur. Signs of water damage include:
– A water damaged ceiling – look all around the room, including the ceiling and walls underneath the bathroom for damp or discoloration.
– Laminate floor water damage – check out the floor covering if you have one.
– Water damaged wall – look all around for damp or discoloration.
– Water damaged skirting boards – wood will warp and eventually rot and crumble if the room isn’t properly dried.

If you detect water damage in your home, the damage may have gone deeper into your home’s substructure. Don’t worry – contact a professional who knows how to deal with water damage and be sure to take photos when you discover the damage, in case you need to claim on your home insurance.  

for more info visit homeserve.com

Virus vs Bacteria

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Germs are everywhere. What exactly is a “germ”? A germ can be any microorganism but usually refers to those causing disease. The most common germs humans come into contact with are bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. While good hand washing and clean, healthy living can help mitigate some of the damages done by bad germs, it is important to know what kind of germ is affecting you so that you can take appropriate actions. Bacteria and viruses both often lead to infections within the human body.

Bacterial infections are when a single-celled organism finds nutrients from its environment. Often times the environment bacteria settle in can be our bodies. Bacteria finding a home within our bodies can lead to things like cavities, urinary tract infections, ear infections, or even strep throat. Bacteria can often be fought with antibiotics. Using antibiotics too unnecessarily or leaving a dose of antibiotics incomplete can have adverse effects, however. As bacteria breed and multiply, it is Darwinism at its finest. Only the strong survive the antibiotics. Leaving antibiotics unfinished allows the strongest ones left behind ready to rage battle, or even catch a ride to the next flourishing environment.

Viral infections, however, work a little differently. Viruses are hardly even full cells, made mostly of genetic material. Viruses, unlike bacteria, can only live for a short time without their host, as they need to use the structure of their host to reproduce and live. Hosts can be anything living. A person, animal, or even a plant can carry a virus. Viruses typically cause illness in the host. Viruses are not usually treated with antibiotics, as they simply just aren’t as effective. Some anti-viral drugs have been developed against small groups or specific strains.

Germs are prevalent everywhere but can easily be transmitted directly from one to another through saliva, sweat, blood, aerosolized in the air, or at high touchpoints in public places. The best way to stop the spread of germs is to wash your hands regularly with warm soap and water, cough, or sneeze into your arm instead of your hand, sanitize your hands when able to, and STAY HOME WHEN YOU ARE SICK. If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. While times may be becoming more and more uncertain, one thing biologists know is that following those basic rules will help slow the spread of diseases caused by germs.

At SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea, we have undergone particular training to handle dangerous microorganisms, blood-born pathogens, and many other situations that may pose risk to a bystander. Your safety, health, and wellness are of utmost importance to us. Don’t risk it by attempting to clean up a situation that warrants professionals. 

Top 5 Spring Cleaning Tips for 2022

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

1. Make a Schedule

Scope out your home: What areas need the most work? Where do you skip during routine cleaning? Those are the best places to start. Regardless of where you start, having a plan will keep you focused on the task at hand. Just go room by room.

2. De-clutter

Studies show that a disorganized home adds to your stress level. It signals to your brain that work isn’t done.

The scientific implications of inhaling dust, combined with the stress of coming back to a cluttered workspace, can take a toll. Since we’re all spending more time at home and in our home offices specifically, keeping a neat workspace is more important than ever.

Set aside some time to:

• Dust and organize your office
• Look through that dreaded junk drawer (and desk drawers!)
• Organize your closets

3. Use a HEPA Vacuum

You can remove more than just dust build-up when you vacuum. A high-quality HEPA vacuum is one of the best spring cleaning supplies to arm yourself with. They catch tiny airborne particles you can’t see but can stir up allergy symptoms. They trap things like pet dander, allergens, and other household particles.

You’ll see a HEPA vacuum suggestion on just about every spring house cleaning list. Miele vacuums are known for their long-lasting designs (7-year warranties!), powerful suction, and sealed filtration systems. They’re ideal options for allergy sufferers.

If you don’t have a HEPA vacuum, look for a vacuum with attachments like dusting brushes, crevice tools, and hoses that can be used to clean more than just your floor. These tools make it simple to clean ceiling fans, cobwebs in corners, pillows, and tight spaces like behind furniture. Be sure to move your furniture too (or at least vacuum under it). Arm yourself with a good HEPA vacuum, and you’ll enjoy a healthy, clean home all of the spring season.

4. Think Green When You Spring Clean

You want to start spring off on a clean note, so don’t expose yourself to chemicals and toxins. A steam cleaner is one of the best green products for spring cleaning. It can be used to clean your microwave, tile, hard floors, kitchen appliances, bathrooms, and even outdoor areas.

Since steam cleaners only use hot water vapor, they’re a 100% natural and chemical-free cleaning solution.

If you don’t have a steam cleaner, one of the best natural combinations for cleaning is white distilled vinegar, baking soda, and water. These ingredients are affordable, non-toxic, and have worked for ages when it comes to cleaning. Learn how to make your own green cleaning solutions in our step-by-step guide.

5. Always Work from Top to Bottom

When you think about how to spring clean your home, it’s important to start from the ceiling down. This will force debris downward and keep you from having to re-dust or re-clean your space. If you have a vacuum with an extension hose, use it to get cobwebs and dust from your ceilings and fans first.

Then dust your furniture and other items before vacuuming all the dust and debris off your floors. It will save you time.

For more tips visit sylvane.com

What to Say When Tragedy Strikes

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Most of us have a hard time knowing what to say when someone has experienced a great tragedy. As Americans, we aren’t that good at grief, loss, and mourning. On the other hand, we’re really good at hope, optimism, and resilience, and at seeing the “silver lining.” But all too often, our words of comfort, born out of compassion, actually hurt those we are trying to help. So here are some tips from a reluctant expert in loss, for people who are trying to comfort those who are in the midst of tragedy.

1) Don’t say any sentence that starts with the words, “At least…” As in, “At least you’re still alive… At least you have insurance … At least you saved a few things…” No, emphatically no. Believe me, “At least…” is one of the worst things you can hear at a time like this. The person who has had a great loss is trying to understand what they’ve lost, to somehow take in the enormity of the situation. Trying to make them feel grateful in the midst of tragedy is not compassionate. I beg of you if you find yourself saying, “At least…” just stop right there.

2) Don’t say, “It’s just stuff.” Suddenly losing a lifetime of possessions is a devastating experience. You have no idea how hurtful and infuriating it is to have someone who did not lose everything wax philosophical about how great it is to “clear out and start over.” So please do not ever, ever say “It’s just stuff.” I found it much more comforting when people said, “I’m so sorry. I can’t imagine what this must be like for you.”

3) Avoid making it a discussion of faith. In times of great loss, faith is often questioned. Your whole world has just been blown apart, and you may not be so sure about God’s role in any of it. So even if you attend the same church, practice the same faith, or feel like you’re pretty sure of their religious beliefs, try not to go there when you’re comforting someone. It may only make them feel worse about what’s happening.

4) Don’t talk about the “silver lining.” This is a tough one. When you’re in the midst of tragedy, death, or great loss, you really, really do not want someone to take your hand and tell you how you’re going to come out of this stronger, better, etc. It’s important to let that person have their own feelings; don’t tell them how to feel, even unintentionally.

5) Don’t remain silent. Many of us struggle with what to say or worry that we’ll say the wrong thing, so we don’t say anything. This is awkward and unsettling for someone who’s experiencing great loss. You know they know, and you’re waiting for them to say something, and then they don’t, and it makes everything worse. So then what do you say?

6) Say just two things: “I’m so, so sorry. How I can help?” That’s all there is to say – then just BE with them. Hold their hand and cry with them. Bring them food and blankets and gift cards and kleenex and listen, really listen to them when they are telling you just how broken they feel. Just be there.

For more info visit burningdownthehouseblog.com

Growth.

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Spring is here. Rain and moisture are plentiful, and the colors are coming back to the earth. New growth is upon us. Sounds wonderful, right? Growth is a beautiful thing unless it is mold and in your home. Now, molds are naturally occurring fungal growth that occurs on wet materials. Mold plays an important role in the ecosystem by breaking down dead organic matter in nature. Mold growth requires moisture, food/nutrients, and time. Common construction and building materials are able to easily sustain mold growth in improper conditions. Mold growth indoors is typically caused by water or moisture exposure or inadequate drying of affected materials. Anywhere moisture is present, mold can thrive, making leaky roofs, plumbing problems, and flooding some of the leading causes of excess moisture indoors. How can you tell if your home has a mold issue? Start by following your nose. One of the most noticeable effects of mold can be the smell of mildew. It is not that simple, however. There are many different kinds of molds. Molds come in all shapes sizes colors and varieties. Mold is not always easily detectible, though. It can hide behind wallpaper or paneling, inside drop ceilings, behind walls, in ductwork, and under carpet padding. SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea offer mold inspections as well as air sample testing to check for the presence of unwanted mold growth in homes or businesses. If unwanted mold is detected indoors, remediation becomes necessary to correct the problem. Calling SERVPRO to help you identify the presence of mold in your home is the first step. We will take it from there, completing the cleaning and removal of contaminated areas. We are properly armed with the equipment, methodology, and training using guidelines extracted from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the EPA, and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). When left unhandled, mold can become dangerous in many ways. Mold can spread rapidly throughout a property causing damage to its structure, its contents, and its inhabitants. Growth is a beautiful thing this time of year, as long as it stays where it belongs and out of our bathrooms, attics, and crawl spaces!

What Happens After you extinguish a Fire

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that not all fires are created equal? Different types of fires have different classifications. For example, an electrical fire is handled in a vastly different manner than a kitchen grease fire. These fires are fueled differently, thus producing a distinctive kind of odor. Did you also know that different kinds of fires require different kinds of fire extinguishers? There are wet chemical fire extinguishers, ABC dry powder fire extinguishers, dry special powder fire extinguishers, CO2 gas fire extinguishers, water fire extinguishers, and foam fire extinguishers. Mind-boggling, right? So, say a fire has happened, now what? You have water damage, fire extinguisher mess, heavy oily soot, stinky dirty carpets, and drapes and don’t even know where to begin. How will you ever get it all cleaned up and not smelling like a disaster? The best solution is to call SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea. We are experts in cleaning up chemicals left from fire extinguishers, drying out water damage, cleaning your ceilings, walls, and floors, and removing soot, smoke, and fire damages and odors. Our expert technicians are trained to use our commercial-grade cleaning products (which have to be handled, applied, and removed with care) to combat the lingering devastation a fire leaves behind. We work diligently both on the scene and at our shop to bring your salvageable items to preloss condition. We even have a fancy ultrasonic machine that uses high-frequency sound waves transmitted through a liquid solvent to scrub clean the surfaces of your precious belongings. Our team works hard and with heart. We handle your items with care and concern. A fire, despite what kind or what extinguisher was used, is an overwhelming, unfortunate catastrophe, but you don’t have to, and shouldn’t, handle it alone. Soot can be caustic and carcinogenic. It leaves lasting damages if not handled promptly, with the right products, and in the right manner. SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea has your back and has the power and know-how to get you on track to life as you remember it. If you don’t know where to begin, a good first step is making a call to us so we can come to assess the damages and begin the time-sensitive process of cleaning and restoring your home back to preloss condition. We are HERO READY, and HERE TO HELP.

What could go wrong?

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Running a business comes with its adversities. A lot of time, preparation, planning, and organization goes into successfully launching and maintaining a business. One thing businesses seldom prepare for, however, is when things go wrong. What could go wrong? Water damage can come from literally anywhere. Plumbing, sewage systems, HVAC leaks, damaged roofs, storms, and floods are all common causes of water damage in both residential and commercial settings. Water damage, consequently, also comes with fire damage. In addition to cleaning up the mess after the fire itself, you are left with cleaning up the extinguishing agent. Smoke, soot, odor, and structural damages are overwhelming; however, we are here to help. Businesses can be faced with severe weather, crime and trauma scene aftermath cleanup, and even mold infestations.

At SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea, we are the number one chosen cleanup and restoration company in the industry. We are prepared to help you every step of the way. We understand business continuity is crucial for survival and want to get your business restored and back up and running in as little time as possible. Storms, water damage, fires, smoke, floods, mold, and other destructive forces can rock operations and bring life as you know it to a complete halt.  When working with your local SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea we offer assistance in preparing and responding to emergencies. Not only do we offer 24/7 emergency support for disaster response, but we also work with you proactively to help prevent and prepare for the unexpected by developing an Emergency Ready Profile to develop a plan to help your business bounce back! An Emergency Ready Profile is a free, no-cost assessment of your facility provided by SERVPRO to develop a plan of priority response. This not only helps reduce the overall costs but allows for a faster, smoother cleaning and restoration process, reducing stress and lost revenue. SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea are thoroughly equipped to handle any size facility. Working with us to develop an ERP for your facility is the first step on the right track to preparedness, safety, and response in emergency situations.

Two Minutes.

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Two minutes doesn’t seem like a lot of time. It slips by quickly with little significance on any given day. During a fire, a lot can happen in just two minutes. According to the Red Cross, you may have as little as two minutes to escape if a fire starts in your home. Two minutes doesn’t seem very impactful until your home is on fire, then it can mean life or death. Time is of the essence. Every moment of notice you can get is a better chance of survival. Early warnings make all the difference. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your property as well as both inside and outside of the bedrooms. Sprinklers and smoke alarms together cut your risk of dying in a home fire by 82% in relation to having neither. Alarms should be tested monthly and be equipped with fresh batteries. Preparation ahead of time can significantly impact your chances of survival. Making a fire escape plan is a great first step. Communicate with all household members about evacuation points and where to meet when you get outside. Once you get out, stay out! Do not go back in for people, pets, or things. Smoke is just as dangerous and destructive as fire and can wreak havoc on the human body. Avoid smoke inhalation, if at all possible, by staying low to the ground and moving quickly to the closest evacuation point. Remember, you have two minutes to get to safety if a fire starts. Practice your fire safety and escape plan and execute fire drills twice a year. Time your fire drills! A lot can happen in two minutes. Make sure you and your family are prepared, have adequate warning devices, and are equipped with the proper knowledge and empowerment to escape safely!

How much does air duct cleaning cost?

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

The question we always get is how much does air duct cleaning cost?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, properly cleaning an entire system in an average-sized home may typically range in cost from $450 to $1,000. However, there are several factors that affect cost and time estimates:

• the type of ductwork
• system size
• system accessibility
• number of crew members required
• level of contamination
• environmental factors

Beware of advertisements that have “whole house specials” for very low prices. Many of them only include only the main ducts and charge extra for the air handler, blower fans, coils, registers, and cutting access. Upon arrival, many of these companies then up-charge to excessive amounts.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has NADCA trainered and certified technicians.

Can Smoke-Damaged Electronics Be Saved?

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes the damage is simply too disastrous to overcome. In other cases, careful restoration services can save the damaged electronics.

Either way, saving smoke-coated electronics will depend on the type of device and the extent of the damage.

After a fire, your damaged electronics are a safety hazard. You should not turn any of them on until after talking to a professional. If you do turn it on, the corroding acids will immediately cause the device to fail.

If there was a fire, remember that water was used to put it out, so you may also have water in the electronics. Water or heavy soot levels can easily cause your electronic devices to short or disrupt their operational capacities.

One option is to unplug and remove any affected devices. Then, clean the items and wipe off any residue with a cloth. If you do this immediately, you will improve the chances of saving devices.

If the item has a heavy coating of soot or smoke or burn marks, do not attempt to restore it. These devices are often beyond saving and should be safely discarded.

On a practical note, always keep warranty records on your devices. If they are damaged beyond saving, they might be covered by any warranty plans. Typically, devices over $100 in value have warranty plans.

For more info visit www.alldryus.com

A Whole Buffet

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

When many hear that SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea is locally owned and operated they often think we are “small potatoes”. Little do they know; we are a whole potato buffet! SERVPRO harnesses large commercial cleaning and restoration power within our walls. Not only do we have the most highly trained technicians with expert knowledge and the best commercial-grade cleaning products, but we have THOUSANDS of pieces of commercial-grade equipment to handle even the largest of jobs. We have stepped into warehouses, hospitals, factories, restaurants, and pretty much any kind of business you can imagine and handled some of business owners’ worst nightmares. When faced with disaster, up to 50% of businesses may never reopen. When closed due to a disaster it can devastate a business and cost thousands due to lost revenue. SERVPRO of Austin and Albert Lea want to help, both proactively and with any necessary emergency or non-emergency responses. We know that business continuity is crucial to your business’ success. Knowing what to do and who to call ahead of time can save hundreds of thousands of dollars, and potentially save your business. When an emergency arises, the prompt response makes all the difference. An Emergency Ready Profile provided at no cost by SERVPRO can help reduce or eliminate disasters. An Emergency Ready Profile is a no-cost assessment of your facility. Your favorite SERVPRO representative will come and do a walkthrough of your business to identify potential ways to avoid or reduce damages caused by unexpected water, fire, or other damages. We will take photographs, mark, and tag shutoffs, and document the proper emergency response steps. An Emergency Ready Profile is a valuable tool and an excellent training resource. If there is an equipment or plumbing malfunction after hours, for example, your Emergency Ready Profile will help identify how to safely mitigate any further damages, as well as provide the necessary steps for response and resolution. We can help you identify all your vital information and provide it both electronically and via a packet that can easily be referenced by anyone you allow access to! We would love to take a moment with you to get to know your business and develop an Emergency Ready Profile for you. To set up a time to meet with us at no cost, call us today at 507-396-6644!

Cleaning vs. Disinfecting/Sanitizing vs Sterilization

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Cleaning vs. disinfecting/sanitizing vs. sterilization

When it comes to cleaning or disinfecting/sanitizing do you know the difference?

Cleaning

Cleaning refers to the removal of germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. It doesn’t kill germs, but removing them, lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

Disinfecting/sanitizing disinfecting/sanitizing refers to using chemicals (e.g., Environmental Protection Agency-registered disinfectants) to kill germs on surfaces. This process doesn’t necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but killing germs on a surface after cleaning, can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

Sterilization

Sterilization describes a process of destroying or eliminating all forms of microbial life and is carried out in health care facilities by physical or chemical methods.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has a team of trained and certified professionals ready to help! 

Thawing a Frozen Pipe

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Water expands when it freezes and can put incredible pressure on a surrounding pipe. No matter how strong the metal or plastic is, the frozen water can cause the pipe to crack, tear, or break, and then ultimately cause flooding. Preventing ice-covered pipes may be the best possible solution to water damage prevention, but since it is impossible to control Mother Nature’s blistery cold spells, other measures can be taken to prevent water damage once a frozen pipe is found. Here are some ideas on how to deal with icy pipes.

• Turn a faucet on and leave it running. As the water thaws, the speed of the running water can aid in melting built-up ice in pipes.
• Run water in all faucets in the building to see if any hidden pipes may be frozen. 
• After finding a frozen area of the pipe, use a hairdryer, heating pad, or space heater to warm the pipe and surrounding area. 

Test Yourself

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

You may have a plan in place in case of a power outage. You may have signs all over the company with explicit instructions regarding possible outages. You may even mention details of your preparedness plan at a monthly meeting. The problem is, however, people sometimes panic when they feel a loss of control in the dark. To alleviate any possible fear or concerns, run a blackout test two or three times a year. Not only can your employees be more prepared, but this may also help ensure your portable generator is working correctly.

Austin & Albert Lea, MN may have unpredictable weather conditions at times, but your company can be prepared for the unexpected. If a power outage hits your business, keep work flowing and employees calm by planning ahead.

3 Steps to Success

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

There are a few steps required to create an effective fire escape plan.

1. Identify exits.
2. Choose at least two exits.
3. Meet at a pre-determined location.

Begin by identifying all exits; remember to count side doors and exits leading into garages. Identify the exit that all family members can effectively use; very young and very old family members may need assistance. Choose two exits that all family members can use; this gives people an alternative exit if one doorway is blocked. Establish a family meeting place; plan to gather at a pre-determined location that can be safely and easily reached. 

Developing an effective fire escape plan is typically easy and can be done with input from all family members. Once it is made, share it with everyone and practice using it.

Some Areas Are More Prone To Tornadoes or Thunderstorms

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

With warmer weather right around the corner, it’s a great time to start planning for spring and summer storms. There are many different kinds of storms that can occur during these times of the year. Depending on what region of the country you live in, you could potentially be affected by multiple types of storm events. Some areas are more prone to tornadoes or thunderstorms, while coastal areas can be susceptible to hurricanes. You should always be prepared for what could happen to your property, both inside and outside your home.

Here are some tips on what you can do to be prepared:

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe. 
• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household.
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be away from windows, skylights, and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail.

Step 1.) of the spring-cleaning list

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

Let’s talk duct cleaning. The winter months are dwindling away, and spring cleaning is next on
our list of “to do’s”. Right? Well either way SERVPRO has you covered. One of our many
talents/specialties is duct cleaning. Our duct cleaning crew can eliminate months/years of pet
hair, lint, bugs, critters, legos, etc. from your HVAC system. The process has been refined by our technicians and is super-efficient and effective. Our team comes in and starts by setting up containment, so no pets or kids get away and then gain access into the system. Next, they continue by accessing the furnace and ducts by pulling vent covers off. This ensures they get all built-up debris from the furthest reaches of the system. Once they have all the gunk contained,
they go back to a main access point in the furnace and begin sucking it out. The suction pump is
large and contained in a trailer outside. This also makes sure all the stuff we suck out stays in
the filter system away from your home. Lastly, once they have inspected all ducts with their
camera scope and determined they’re spotless they seal up the system. We use foil-back tape
and self-tapping screws and rivets to ensure the vacuum seal is returned to 100%. We use the
industry's best tools and technology we also have what I consider the easiest selling point of all
our duct cleaning services, our team. Tim and Cody are passionate about what they do and take
pride in their work.

Storm Season Northern Midwest

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

As Midwesterners, we are accustomed to subzero temps, nasty snowstorms and blizzards, the occasional
ice storm, or my favorite, the “wintery mix” (insert sarcasm here). I had no idea so I googled “what
months average the most snow in Iowa?” As a born and raised North-Iowan I already knew the answer
but figured what the heck. Just as I suspected the second half of January and into February annually
yield the most snow. It seems nowadays that we have become somewhat reactionary versus proactive.

We go, go, go and sometimes miss the easy preparation that could’ve ultimately thwarted off disaster.
From strengthening the den roof to keeping snow weight from caving in the roof to wrapping and
insulating pipes we’ve had trouble within the past, things get missed. It’s ok though SERVPRO has your
back. We have teams that are built just for this. We fill the gas tanks in our service vehicles every night
just in case our on-call service technicians need to jet out at 3:00 a.m. to extract water from broken
frozen pipes. We have our shelves stacked with the most up-to-date tools and technology to assist in the
moment of need. That 50-year blizzard rolls through and caves in the roof of your man cave or she-shed,
no problem. We have the most powerful and efficient generators that are made to be able to assist with
powering lights or generating heat. We have everything covered so rest easy and remember, SERVPRO
has your back.

And for the cherry on top, you ask?!? We have a 1-4-8 response motto. Meaning you say?
Within one hour of a service call to our 24/7/365 dispatch, you will have a callback. Within four hours of
the initial call for help, we’ll have a team together and on our way. Within eight hours the team will be to
your disaster working hard to return your life to “Like it never even happened."

Proper Restoration

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

The intrusion of water into your home or business may result in mold growth. Water intrusions can be caused by storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks, and poor humidity control. When these water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can be an increased risk of harmful mold growth. Mold spores are normally present in most environments. If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged environment are not controlled, mold spores can grow and multiply. 

SERVPRO cares about the proper restoration of your structure. In most water damage situations, excessive mold growth is not a problem and SERVPRO can safely restore your building to preloss condition. The need to address the presence of mold can only be determined by an on-site, indoor environmental inspection. 

Handling Stains In Your Carpet

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea professionals have been handling stains of all types from residential homes to commercial facilities for years. Using IICRC (Institution of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards for carpet care as a guide, a SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Les professional will walk with you through your business. It is extremely important to remember that when it comes to your business, first impressions are important to clients, customers, and consumers. Having a clean office or facility is the quickest and easiest way to make a lasting impression. 

We will take time to: 

• Give you an estimate of the time and cost of the carpet cleaning.
• Explain the benefits of soil protection. 
• Explain the advantages of a clean carpet for good indoor air quality. 
• Explain how you can help prolong the appearance of your carpet with frequent vacuuming.

HVAC Duct Cleaning Pros

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your home’s air ducts need to be cleaned, rely on the experts to do the job right. There’s a lot around your house that you can safely DIY, but air duct cleaning isn’t on the list.

Professional air duct cleaners use commercial-grade vacuum systems and powered brushes to loosen and remove dirt and debris from your home’s HVAC system and ductwork without worsening the quality of the air inside your home.

Residential vacuum cleaners and cleaning attachments simply aren’t powerful enough to do the job correctly, and a DIYer runs the risk of doing serious damage to the ductwork. Air duct cleaning pros are also trained to spot other problems with an HVAC system that the average homeowner may not know to look for.

Like many other trades in the home improvement industry, air duct cleaning is subject to scams. Be wary of air duct cleaning companies that offer unusually low rates or that promise a super-quick service. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts and keep looking.

Your best bet for finding a reliable, highly qualified air duct cleaning company like SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea. Whether you’ve noticed more dust around your house than usual or your HVAC technician found mold in your furnace, a NADCA-certified expert will help you get your home clean and back to normal—the right way!

Water Classifications and Relatability

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO recognizes the inevitable, situations in which water leaking, flooding, dripping are going to happen, and there isn’t any way to avoid it. Keeping that in mind we have dedicated our staff to learning anything and everything there is to know about water. How to effectively and efficiently clean it up
using certain methods and different extraction pumps. If the location has power is another HUGE hurdle
and whether we need our generators for heat. If you have a water loss in January and the HVAC is underwater, or if the power had to be cut for safety concerns, we still need heat to dry and heat needs power! We
also have the crucial aspect of identifying what class of water we’re dealing with. This is important as
different measures like appropriate PPE and preventative measures can be taken. There are three
classes of water and each has safety aspects, health aspects, and reconstruction/cleaning aspects that
need to be identified and labeled correctly.

Mold Inspections and Air Sample Testing

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

Spotting mold can be tricky. It can be black, white, green, pink, and different types of molds have varying textures. Despite popular belief, black mold is equally as dangerous as other molds. Many molds hide in the darkest of damp places in your home. Often mold will smell musty or dirty.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea offers mold inspections and air sample testing to help our customers identify and conquer mold problems in their homes or businesses. We have trained experts who know exactly what species of molds to look for. Air sample testing takes place by pulling air through a collection media in various sampling locations, as well as outside of your home or business for a comparison. SERVPRO uses commercial-grade cleaners and sporicidal disinfectants to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones from the dangers of mold. SERVPRO also offers demolition and reconstruction services for situations beyond remediation. We are ready to help you create safe and healthy spaces. Give us a call if you suspect mold growth where it shouldn’t be. We will be ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

In Home Mold Removal

12/30/2021 (Permalink)

Every mold infestation is different, from the amount of mold to the types of materials affected. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for a “typical” mold remediation infestation:

1. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
2. Mold Containment
3. Air Filtration
4. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
5. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
6. Restoration

Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.

How To Thaw Your Pipes

12/17/2021 (Permalink)

To Thaw Frozen Pipes

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Future Protection

• Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.
• Pipes can be relocated by a professional if the home is remodeled.
• Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.

Knowing What To Do Matters

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

Different types of smoke residues can exist in
the same loss environment. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea will select a cleaning method that will effectively remove the type of smoke residues present.

Identify the type of surface

The type of surface determines which cleaning
methods and products are safe to use on that surface. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea will be careful to preserve the material or surface being cleaned, and unfortunately, some materials may not be restorable because they cannot withstand the cleaning process.

Capture and remove residues

Smoke residues bond with surfaces they contact. SERVPRO of Austin Albert Lea uses dry and wet cleaning processes to release and carry residue particles away
from the affected surface.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea properly dispose of debris and cleaning waste.

A Certified Crew Ready To Go At A Moments Notice!

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea's team is certified and trained to be ready for any size disaster that occurs. Whether it be a small leak to full-on flooding. We have the manpower and equipment for any disaster that happens in your home or business.

We are ready and available for all emergency services any hour and any day of the week! When our crew arrives you will be given details on how the mitigation process will go and also how long it should take us to finish. 

Our crews understand the urgency to get your home or business back to normal. They will work around the clock to get your disaster looking "Like it never even happened."

You can always count on us to save the day or night. 

Give SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea a call at 507-396-6644

Holiday Fire Prevention!

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don't practice safe cooking habits, your holiday could become hazardous very quickly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. The leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking. It’s important to be alert to prevent cooking fires.

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol don't use the stove or stove top.

• Stay in the kitchen while you are drying, grilling, boiling or broiling food.

• If you are simmering, baking or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

• Keep anything that can catch fire oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains away from the stove top.

For more information call us today at 507-396-6644

Industry Leader in Clean!

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is known as a leader in the carpet cleaning industry. Did you know that in addition to carpets, we offer a wide range of other cleaning services? We provide general cleanings, including cleaning walls and appliances to customer content or ductwork cleaning. This not only can improve your heating and cooling efficiency but improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea also has the equipment and expertise to deodorize and get rid of pesky smells from smoke odor to pet odor and everything in between. We offer post-construction cleanings to get your home back in prime condition after remodeling or general construction. We utilize industry-leading technology, equipment, and training to provide you a level of cleanliness that stands out from the rest. 

Facing Flood Waters

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO franchises are locally owned and operated. We offer small hometown customer care with large capacity capabilities. We are able to handle everything from the smallest odd jobs to large commercial losses and storm events. Specific to our area, flooding can be a danger that some of us may know all too well. The flooding of the Cedar River has likely impacted many of you at some time. Significantly, 2004 and 2008 were massive flooding event years for the Northern Iowa and Southern Minnesota area. Many businesses were shut down, homes were damaged. The water rose to dangerous levels and many frightened people were forced to evacuate or be rescued from their homes, some only moments before the weight of the water surrounding their home caused the windows to break. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is prepared to handle. When disasters like these strike, SERVPRO is ready to mobilize.

The first several days after a storm event are critically important to preventing avoidable secondary damages to your home, business, and possessions. Water that has entered a structure through the flooding of a creek stream or river is considered black water. Water that has filtered through insulation is also considered black water. Blackwater is hazardous and harmful to your health, and it is important to avoid contact with potentially contaminated water and items. SERVPRO technicians are highly trained to handle hazardous materials, biohazardous materials, and even blood-borne pathogens, which could all be contaminants of black water.

When storms strike and floodwaters rise, these situations call for professional equipment, highly trained water restoration technicians, and knowledge of the science of clean up, drying, and mitigation. When you find yourself facing water damages, SERVPRO is on call 24/7 for emergency support. At SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea we are Hero ready and here to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Here to Help Your Holiday Nightmare!

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

With Halloween right around the corner, it time to start planning for the holiday season. The holiday season is the time of the year to gather with family and friends. Holiday meals can bring cheer with uncle Daunte's homemade pie, grandma’s famous sweet potatoes casserole, or any favorite holiday dish. However, cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Review these cooking safety tips to help ensure you have a safe holiday cooking experience.

• NEVER leave cooking food unattended. Turn off the stove, even if you think you will be right back in the kitchen.
• Check the food regularly while cooking and use a timer.
• Keep small children away from the cooking area.
• Keep flammables (pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, and bags) away from the stove, oven, or other appliances that generate heat in the kitchen.
• Prevent grease build-up by cleaning cooking surfaces regularly.
• Purchase and keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
• Install smoke alarms in your home.

If the unthinkable happens and fire strikes your home this holiday season, contact your local heroes at SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea. We wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

Your Content Is Important To Us

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea we offer many services to Freeborn, Mower, Faribault, and Fillmore Counties. One of the many services that we provide is a pack out after a fire. 

Our pack-out process involves photographing your content put into each box along with a label and QR code. We then take them back to our facility where they are cleaned in our Ultrasonic cleaning machine and restored to their preloss condition. Contents are separated into two categories salvageable and unsalvageable. 

After your items are restored and the repairs in your home are complete,SERVPRO will then return them to your home.

A fire in your home can be a devastating experience. Put your trust in our trained and certified team at SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea. Call us today at 507-396-6644

We Will Restore Your Business

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

No matter the cause of the flood damage or how large the water restoration project, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea can handle it. We will conduct an initial inspection to assess the damage. During the inspection, our mitigation expert uses special tools and equipment to identify the source of the flood and stop more water from coming in. As water damage mitigation professionals we use procedures like structural drying to ensure quick and complete drying of the entire structure and contents. This will ensure efficient drying of the structure and contents, and will also help to eliminate odors.

We will restore your business to the previous condition before the damage occurred. It is important to understand that a lot of work is involved in fixing the water damage problem, whether it's caused by a pipe break, supply line break, or other issues.

Call us at (507) 396-6644 if you have questions about the problem in your business

The Four “Knows” of drying.

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO we have some amazing tools, techniques, and processes we use every time the restorative process begins. These decisions make sure we are as efficient and effective as possible. In regards to efficiency, we need to make sure the method chosen is the best possible approach with the least amount of inputs. Effectiveness in its most simple form is making sure we are producing results on our main objectives. No matter what the situation we need to establish the Four “Knows” of drying. These “Knows” are:

What’s wet?

How wet is it?

Is it drying?

Is it done?

The first step is the easiest of the four, most of the time. Once we establish everything that’s wet need to determine exactly how wet is it. We use our moisture meters to come up with a moisture content percentage. This percentage is the comparison of weight between a wet material and its oven-dried counterpart. Once we establish how wet it is we are on to “Is it drying”.

The process of this third step is gathering and recording moisture data. This step is very crucial as all the data validates the drying progress. This also sheds light on issues that might need to be altered. Remember we have efficiency and effectiveness in mind on every project. The monitoring of the affected area is evaluated at least once every 24 hours and this attention to detail ensures we minimize damage shortens project time. Just like everything else nowadays, time is money.

The last of the four “Knows”: Is it done?

The angle of approach here is using drying standards and comparing what was wet materials to control/sample materials. We set goals towards the beginning of the drying process and we need to continue the process until we meet those goals. Sometimes there are external factors that will affect these standards but the IICRC has guidelines in place to ensure moisture restoration is obtained.

We are Available 24/7

9/27/2021 (Permalink)

Imagine you are just getting ready for bed, but decide to take down the Halloween decoration box. Once you reach the bottom of the steps, you hear swoosh, smoosh as you walk across the floor. Soon you notice the water that has invaded your home. Who is available at this time of night?

SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea

We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year including holidays. Fire and water damages do not usually happen during normal work hours. They can happen on holidays, weekends, late-night, early morning, or happen during the work hour and go unnoticed until you get home.

Call SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea at (507) 396-6644 we are Here to Help® whatever the time of day.

We Are Here For You And Your Business

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

When you think of SERVPRO, you probably think of restoration after fire or water damage. While it's true that we are experts in the field of emergency services including document drying and electronics restoration, we are also your best resource to handle a variety of other tasks to keep your business running smoothly. These include:

• Professional Cleanup and Odor Removal
• Designing a custom Emergency Response Plan (ERP) for your business so your buildings and employees are ready in case disaster strikes

We know running a business is time consuming and there are tasks that you simply may not have time for. Let SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea take care of the details. Call us today at 507-396-6644 and find out how we can help you. 

Way to Help Mitigate Damage

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

One of our main concerns in the cleaning and restoration industry is to mitigate damage when it occurs with the overall main goal of preventing further damage. Obviously, we cannot prevent “acts of God” but there are a few relatively easy and cost-efficient tasks that go a long way to help mitigate damage or potential damage. Let’s cover a few of these tasks that relate specifically to spring.

- One of the first things we can do, and potentially the easiest, is going to your local hardware store and purchase an aerosol can of lubricant for the float shaft of your sump pump. Depending on each home’s setup this pump tends to get more use in the spring/summer months. If there are some days during the winter in which this pump is not used as much and rust can form on the shaft your float is on. This can make your pump stick to and burn your pump or malfunction
the other way and not remove water and cause flooding in your home.

- Second…gutters. I know it is not convenient but grabs your ladder and clean gutters, or at least the downspouts. One of the easiest ways for water to enter your home is a gutter or downspout being plugged. There is a board behind your gutter called the facia board. Water typically flows over the edge of the gutter and through the edges of this board immediately accessing the tresses, rafters, ceiling materials, etc. With a little bit of time and inconvenience, a lot of potential damage can be avoided.

- Third. Check your HVAC unit and all the systems and components associated. Do a visual
inspection and make sure there is no debris in the ac unit located outside. Check vents and
registers making sure that there are no obstructions to the flow of air. Keeping good air
movement in your home can help prevent mold and odor. Potentially the most important is the
replacement of HVAC filter/filters. These filters trap a lot of particulates but if the routine
replacement does not happen that particulate can be redistributed throughout your home.
Replacement of filters also helps to mitigate the threat of fire.

- Finally, windows. With the dramatic temperature changes and condensation, windows can move slightly. In some instances, this movement can be enough to let in precipitation, bugs, dust, etc. The condensation around windows can be a starting point for mold too. Keep an eye on the frame of windows and if necessary, a simple spray of mold killer can keep microbial growth to a minimum.

Post Construction Clean-up

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Whether you are building a new commercial structure from the ground up, or simply taking on a long-overdue renovation project, it is a big job!  The entire construction process can be lengthy, stressful, and messy!  After the job is complete you may be left with an even bigger mess to clean up before you get your business up and running.  Let SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea take care of that headache for you.  Our full line of specialized cleaning services includes post-construction cleaning.  You wouldn’t hire a car mechanic to repair an airplane, so why hire a maid service to tackle the big stuff?  You need a specialist with the staff, equipment, and techniques to handle a large job.  Our highly trained team members will clean every inch of your newly finished project and make it shine for your opening day.  As part of a national franchise system with over 40 years in the cleaning industry, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea knows how to deliver on our promise of outstanding results.  Call us today at 507-396-6644 for more information. 

Extreme Storms Can Be Devastating!

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

After an out of nowhere event called a Derecho hit our neighbors to the south in Iowa last year. It showed us that the weather can be even more unpredictable than we thought. With warmer temperatures there is an increased risk of severe weather. Falling tree limbs, hail, and high winds can cause damage to your roof. If you suspect that your home may have sustained damage in a storm, safety is your first priority: do not try to assess the damage to your roof by yourself. Stay on the ground and call the trained professionals at SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea at 507-396-6644. We can provide emergency roof tarp installation and board up services that will help to prevent secondary damage caused by weather.

In The Blink of an Eye!

8/13/2021 (Permalink)

Unexpected disasters can happen in your home in the blink of an eye. When we received a call for a flooded basement, in a short amount of time one of our Project Managers arrived on the scene, he noticed there was a break in the customer's hot water pipe. This pipe had to have been leaking for a few days. The basement had about an inch deep of water. 

Our crew turned the water off and immediately started extracting the water. Unfortunately the steam and the time period it was leaking caused mold to start growing. We removed the damaged drywall, ceiling tiles and cleaned all affected areas. 

Call SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea at (507) 396-6644 to make it "Like it never even happened." 

Integrity and Professionalism

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians are certified and trained to conduct themselves with the utmost integrity and professionalism. Not only do they possess the hard skills to get the job done, and done right and effectively, but to handle each job with tact, delicacy, and professionalism requires a rare set of soft skills that is an essential requirement from our team members. Let’s be honest. Usually, when people call us, they are having a pretty rough time. Whether it be a biohazard situation, a fire or water loss, or for any of our services. It is overwhelming to see so much positivity not only from one another but from customers as well after the job has been completed “Like it never even happened.” Daily, our customers trust us to enter their homes and their lives. Handling them, their situation, and each and every job with integrity and professionalism is what keeps our customers happy. Our aim is To be the premier cleaning and restoration company in the world. We can’t do that without the expertise and integrity of our employees and the support of our customers. Thank you. 

Finding a Contractor in Austin & Albert Lea

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

An increase in the number of storm-related claims may lead to an increase in the number of unscrupulous roofers and contractors who are willing to take advantage of homeowners. You need to be cautious when dealing with contractors who offer to repair your home.

Some tips:

1. Only do business with licensed contractors with good references.
2. Always request a written, detailed estimate.
3. Never pay for the work upfront, nor make any payments in cash.
4. Never sign a contract with spaces left blank.
5.  What is their business address? If the company has a PO Box or doesn't have a local address, they probably aren't a local company.
6. Ask about some references for work they have done in this area. Local companies should have plenty of projects you can see in the area.

If you are being asked to sign by a contractor in doubt about anything, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t feel pressured into signing anything. Take time to do your research, and if you are unsure about anything in the agreement, WAIT until you’ve had an opportunity to look it over more carefully and discuss it with your insurance agent or adjuster.

Floods Are Not Always Caused By Rain.

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

Most people will immediately think flooding due to heavy rain. We know that heavy rain cause damage to your home and property, but most often, the water damage we fine are due to a plumbing issue. Damage to an average-sized house can run a homeowner thousands of dollars.

When SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea receives a call for a burst pipe or water heater, our responds quickly so they can remove water as fast as possible. Once we’ve removed all the water, we immediately begin the drying process to both personal property and the structure. One of the things we do during the drying process is to set up are dehumidifiers. By removing moisture, we lower humidity levels in the home creating a drier environment which allows evaporation to happen and that helps save building materials such as drywall.
 
As the dehumidifiers work, SERVPRO technicians use extraction devices to dry any carpeting. This allows them to remove more water. Unlike carpet, most carpet pads are inexpensive, so we usually recommend replacing verses attempting to dry them. 
 
If you need our help for any type of water damage, call us at 507-396-6644. Let us be your first line of action to reduce the effects of water damage in your home or business

When Disaster Strikes

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

For business owners, their livelihood depends on the success of their business. When disaster strikes it is important to have a plan of action in place, especially for your business. Disasters that result in business interruption can permanently close nearly 50% of business’ doors forever. Timing is everything. Knowing what to do, who to call, and what to expect in advance is vital to timely mitigation. SERVPRO of Mason City offers a no-cost assessment of your facility to develop an Emergency Ready Profile. When we develop an Emergency Ready Profile for a business, it contains only the most critical information. An Emergency Ready Profile will also establish SERVPRO of Mason City as your preferred disaster mitigation and restoration provider. It contains employee and emergency contacts as well as the line of command for authorizing work to begin (once again, timing is everything). We will compile critical information and facility details such as shutoff valve locations, important areas and building access information, insurance contact Information, and priority contact information in an easy-to-navigate manner available through a web portal, mobile app, or physical copy. Many people question why SERVPRO of Mason City would offer such a service at no cost to businesses. Simply put, we genuinely want to help. We want to make sure you have all of the tools and resources to avoid disasters, but in those unavoidable times when misfortune strikes, we want to be easily accessible to you. We are always “Hero ready, here to help!” We are on call for emergency services 24/7/365.

Note the Dangers of Fireworks!

7/3/2021 (Permalink)

Firework season is among us! They are often used for special events and holidays—most commonly the 4^th of July. Fireworks can fill the sky with their beauty, but they cause thousands of burns and eye injuries each year.

What you can do to have a safe 4^th of July…

• BE CAREFUL!
• Keep a close on children and pets when fireworks are being used.
• Do not operate fireworks under the influence of alcohol.
• Always have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Dispose of used fireworks by wetting and placing them in a metal trash can away from any building.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea wants you to have a safe 4^th of July. If your home or business suffers fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Three Different Types of Water Damage

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Water can be classified into three different types of categories. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has the knowledge and expertise to help you identify which category of water you may be dealing with and will help you take the necessary steps to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Category 1: “Clean Water”

Category 1 water is considered sanitary and can come from sources like a broken water line or a leaking faucet. If left untreated, it can degrade into a category 2 or 3 overtime, which is why it should be mitigated promptly.

Category 2: “Gray Water”

Gray water is contaminated and can cause illnesses. Although it’s not as contaminated as water in category 3, it can still progress to that level, if left untreated.

Category 3: “Black Water”

Blackwater is grossly contaminated, it’s the dirtiest classification of water; it can contain sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes. This type of water can come from sources such as, flooding or sewage from an overflowing toilet that contains fecal matter.

It’s important to address any kind of water damage immediately. Quick action will not only prevent secondary damage to your home or business, but even more importantly, your health depends on it! Contact SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea, we are available 24/7 should you experience water damage!

Know The Dangers When It Comes To Grilling This Summer!

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

Nothing is better then some delicious grilled food on a nice Summer day!

With the start grilling season finally upon us, here are a few things know to keep you and your family safe.

•  July is the peak month for grill fires (18%), including both structures, outdoor or unclassified fires, followed by June (15%), May (13%) and August (12%).
• The grill had not been cleaned in more than one-quarter (29%) of the home grill structure fires.
• The leading area of origin for structure fires involving grills was an exterior balcony or open porch, and 44 percent of the property damage from grill structure fires resulted from fires that started there.
• Five of every six grills involved in home fires were fueled by gas (84 percent), while 12 percent used charcoal or another solid fuel.
• Gas grills were involved in an average of 8,900 home fires per year.  Leaks or breaks were primarily a problem with gas grills.
• Charcoal or other solid-fueled grills were involved in 1,300 home fires per year.

 Always make sure to watch the grill. It only takes a second to turn a great day into a nightmare!

We Recognize Some Critical Steps

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO we recognize some critical steps in the process of helping a customer. Be it a residential or commercial loss we handle most situations with the same policies and protocols. There are some situations that warrant a custom, one-time approach but consistency is paramount to guarantee the job is done efficiently and effectively. One of the best ways to guarantee consistency is the use of job audits. Audits are done internally and externally and are standard when dealing with program work. When utilizing audits, we can look at DryBook, or any data entry software, and reference information from a job that we haven’t even visited physically and know specifications, scope, property manager, etc. 

Another avenue to explore and set up would be a master service agreement. With a master service agreement, we would have all pertinent information gathered and questions answered before a problem even arises. Let’s say a manager is on a well-deserved vacation and a sewer pipe ruptures at his/her business. Since we’ve already done the work and set up a master service agreement and/or vendor account we are able to reference information immediately. We would know what plumber they use, what employees to call and inform, what the budget is to stop the loss from getting worse, you name it. Basically, a master service agreement is set up to establish peace of mind when the decision-maker/makers are not on the property. 

As I briefly mentioned above, we also have certain criteria to meet and qualify as “program work”. These standards guarantee that when a large commercial job comes in and we accept the job, we can complete the job efficiently. For every level of businesses in relation to square or cubic footage there are certain amounts of machinery and manpower needed to qualify. This eliminates businesses from taking a job outside of what they can handle. These are just a few ways in which SERVPRO establishes the lead in a very competitive industry.

3 Ways to Keep Your Roof Safe

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

3 Simple Steps to keep your roof safe.

1. Inspect the roof at least twice a year. Make sure you know about potential issues and all of your upkeep options to extend the life of a roof. Do this by having experts perform annual inspections. If you know what to look for, you can do at least one of these inspections yourself.
2. Trim trees with overhanging branches. Reducing the number of branches and leaves that accumulate on the roof can help to keep drainage systems clear. Tree maintenance can also prevent heavy limbs from falling in the event of high winds or adverse weather conditions.
3. Clear drainage systems regularly. Water that cannot drain may pool and work its way under roofing materials, resulting in leaks. Make sure that leaves and other debris are not blocking downspouts, drains, or gutters, and that drainage is routed away from the foundation.

A regular maintenance schedule can help property owners address roof damage and wind damage in a timely manner. Keeping an eye on the condition of your roof can extend the life of this part of your building and prevent costly leaks.

Hail Storm Damage

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Hail damage to your home

Hail storms are never a good thing for you and your property. They can smash holes in homes and windows. Unfortunately, the damage does not stop there. While big chunks of ice can break things, the smaller, harder to detect pieces can cause as much if not more damage.  

Luckily, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea are experts in water and storm cleanup. The first thing we do is seal off any holes created by the hail. Then we get to work drying any moist areas using our air movers and dehumidifiers.

Let us ease your mind as we handle any disaster nature throws at you. Call your local SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea for your expert fire, water, mold, and storm cleanup needs. 507-396-6644

We are the #1 Restoration Company in the Nation.

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea is the best choice when it comes to choosing a restoration company. If you own a large or small business, SERVPRO® understands the importance of keeping your doors open and minimizing downtime in the nature of a catastrophic event. 

Our team is faster than any other restoration company in the Austin & Albert Lea region. Our technicians and managers are trained and certified to handle any type of water, fire, or mold damage.

Documentation throughout any large project is a priority that we take seriously. We want to make sure that you have the notes and documentation for your records in case you have any issues with your insurance company. 

If you have any questions, call SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea at (507) 396-6644 anytime day or night. 

Timing Matters!

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Household emergencies often happen at inconvenient times. Hearing running water from a broken pipe in the middle of the night or coming home from vacation to find two feet of water in your basement. There is really no good time to deal with this kind of disaster. At SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea, we understand that when these types of situations arise, you need help. We are available 24/7 including holidays. It only takes minutes for water to begin damaging structures, contents and personal belongings. Faster response times help to minimize damage and the costs of cleaning and restoration.  Call SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea anytime at 507-396-6644 and let our specialists make your home "Like it never even happened."

Have A Plan Incase of A House Fire!

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

As the leaders in fire restoration, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea want to keep you informed of ways to prevent fire damage.

The Red Cross gives some excellent tips here:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. 
• Test smoke alarms every month. If they’re not working, change the batteries.
• Talk with all family members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year

Immediately dial 9-1-1 and have first responders there as soon as possible. Make sure anyone who was in the house is out, DO NOT go back into a burning building for any belongings, nothing is as important as your safety. Once the fire has been extinguished, contact your insurance provider and see what your policy covers. Have them contact us, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea, and we will work with them for you, to make sure everything is restored to the perfect condition

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is Available 24/7

With Winter Gone The Rain Is Coming

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

As winter fades away and spring finally arrives, we come to the end of fire season and start flood season. As we all know spring can be eighty degrees one day and forty the next. As you can imagine flood season has an indefinite amount of water claim scenarios. We’ve all had some form of a water/flood interaction, be it a leaky basement wall or a plugged gutter from last fall’s leaves, it
happens. What you do next can be the difference in tens of thousands of dollars.
For example, many chairs common to one’s living room or finished basement have fabrics that,
when wet, will seep and drip water onto the floor and stain. That same fabric if dried too fast with too much heat can become brittle and split. Where that chair was sitting will have stains from the wooden legs. If that carpet gets dried without those stains being removed, those stains are now permanent. The carpet there needs to be kept saturated until proper cleaning solutions can be applied. If that same chair has upholstered buttons and they are not cleaned with our Rusticide #116 solution the oxidation/rust
produced will also seep into fabrics and stain, sometimes permanently. We’re not aiming to completely freak you out; this just shows one example and a few complexities that have to be taken into account. Even if SERVPRO is not on the job we still care about you and your possessions. We are all in this together!

One In Every Five Homeowners In North America Will Experience Some Kind Of Water Loss!

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

When you mention water damage, you automatically think of flooding, rainstorms, even hurricanes. According to the Private Risk Management Association one in every five homeowners in North America will experience some kind of water loss each year. Of these damages, the most common causes are household plumbing devices. Basically, anything in your home that connects to a running water source is considered a household plumbing device. This includes water heaters, washing machines, ice makers, dishwashers, and toilets. All things that we all have in our homes. With every water loss you face the challenge of time. You only have 48 hours to start drying the affected areas before microbial growth begins to occur. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is ready to tackle water damages for you. We specialize in water damage restoration and we have extensive water damage restoration training. Our process follows a regimen of regular monitoring and documentation of the drying process as well as the use of specialized equipment to aid in the drying process, reducing the risks of mold. Our professional grade equipment can get you back on your feet and operating like normal in no time.

Mold Can Be Very Sneaky

4/28/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on your wall may not seem like a big deal. It could just be the proverbial tip of the iceberg, though. Mold damage is often not limited to what you can see. It may be hiding behind the wall, under the flooring or inside cabinets. Quick mold remediation is the key to finding all its hiding spots and getting rid of the growth.

Behind Walls

Mold on the surface of your wall may just be the outward manifestation of the moldy drywall underneath it. Inspection may reveal several problems:

• Leaky pipes
• Overflow from the floor above
• Wet or moldy insulation

Mold cleanup professionals may have to tear out portions of your wall and remove the insulation. Once everything is clean and dry, they can then add new insulation and rebuild the wall.

Under Floorboards

Flooring such as carpet or hardwood floors can hide a moisture problem and the mold growth it fosters. Certified mold specialists may find a larger problem when the flooring is removed. If you see mold on wood when you look at your floor, it is probably not the only mold that is present.

Inside Cabinets

You may not ever think to look at the back of your cabinets, but frequent inspection is important, particularly if the cabinet is under a sink. A small leak can cause a lot of damage. If you have water damage that goes unmitigated, you may soon have a mold problem as well. If this happens, your cabinets may have to be removed and replaced during black mold cleanup.

Mold growth can hide in a number of places. You may see a little bit of mold on the surface that indicates there is a larger problem beneath it. You may not even see any mold at all until the places it is hiding are revealed. Check common hiding places frequently to make sure you don't have a fungus problem.

Be Ready For A Disaster!!

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can cause a lot of problems for you and your business!

The last couple years Minnesota has experienced our fair share of disasters. With tornadoes and floods comes damage from wind, water and mold damage are just a couple things that can disrupt your business.

Did you know that over half of businesses who are affected by a disaster may not recover? That’s 50%, and the number one reason a business WILL survive is because they have a plan in place in case disaster strikes.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is here to help area businesses be prepared for a disaster by helping them create an Emergency Readiness Plan. By developing an ERP for your business, you can minimize interruptions because you’ll have an immediate plan of action if a disaster occurs. Knowing what to expect and what to do is key to minimizing how water and mold can affect your business.

What’s in an Emergency Readiness Plan?

• Priority contact for the business
• A list of personnel, their contact information and duties/responsibilities after the disaster
• Building details such as the floor plan, breaker boxes, shut off valves and any other things that may need immediate attention
• A document containing critical information needed in the event of an emergency such as username and passwords to office equipment and accounts
• A list of external organizations that may be available to assist you and your business
• And, a plan to help you get back on premises – then back to work

For more information on how to put together an Emergency Readiness Plan, call SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea A 507-396-6644 and one of our trained professionals can help you.

When Storms Hit The Austin or Albert Lea Area

4/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our technicians are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property.

Since we are locally owned, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage and reduces the restoration cost.

When storms hit the Austin area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the Nation and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is here to help 24/7 including holidays.

Have Storm Damage? Call Us Today 507-396-6644

Importance of HEPA Filters

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and combustion are synonymous. The short explanation of combustion is the break-down of a solid and becoming a gas. For this to happen there needs to be one other element added, heat.  There are three elements needed for combustion: fuel, oxygen, and heat. In a perfect situation those three elements are equal, which would give off zero smoke, but that rarely happens.  When these three elements are not equal smoke occurs. Smoke is airborne at first and after some time comes to rest on anything in contact of the fire. The reason we bring this up is to point out exactly how important Hepa filters are. Smoke particles range from .1 microns to about 4 microns. For a comparison, the average human hair is 75 to 100 microns! The average period at the end of this sentence is around 150 microns! Even though the smoke particles are that small our SERVPRO Hepa filters permanently trap 99.97% of the smoke particulate!

April Showers

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

As winter fades away and spring finally arrives, we come to the end of fire season and start flood season. As we all know spring can be eighty degrees one day and forty the next. As you can imagine flood season has an indefinite amount of water claim scenarios. We’ve all had some form of a water/flood interaction, be it a leaky basement wall or a plugged gutter from last fall’s leaves, it happens. What you do next can be the difference in tens of thousands of dollars.

For example, many chairs common to one’s living room or finished basement have fabrics that, when wet, will seep and drip water onto the floor and stain. That same fabric if dried too fast with too much heat can become brittle and split. Where that chair was sitting will have stains from the wooden legs. If that carpet gets dried without those stains being removed, those stains are now permanent. The carpet there needs to be kept saturated until proper cleaning solutions can be applied. If that same chair has upholstered buttons and they are not cleaned with our Rusticide #116 solution the oxidation/rust produced will also seep into fabrics and stain, sometimes permanently.

We’re not aiming to completely freak you out; this just shows one example and a few complexities that have to be taken into account. Even if SERVPRO is not on the job we still care about you and your possessions. We are all in this together!

What To Look For Before Water Enters Your Home

4/10/2021 (Permalink)

There are a few things you can do to prevent water damage in your home.

1.) Test your Sump Pump regularly.

2.) Direct down spouts 5-10 feet away from the house and ensure good drainage.

3.) Repair any cracked caulking

4.) Fix all water leaks immediately.   

5.) Check for dark spots under pipes and on ceilings.

6.) Clean your gutters and ensure good drainage. 

7.) Inspect your roof regularly. Replace missing roof shingles ASAP.

The Austin and Albert Lea area have been hit with many severe thunderstorms over the years. s please make sure to inspect your roof for hail and wind damage. If water damage is suspected call SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea at 507-396-6644 we are available 24 hours a day, including holidays. 

Staying Safe As Things Start To Heat Up

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

Home air conditioners cause an average of 20 deaths, 140 injuries, and $82million in property damage annually.

The warmer months are upon us and it’s time to start putting away the sweaters and bring out the tank tops. This also means, for a lot of Minnesotans, it means putting that window unit air conditioner back in. It turns out that the appliance we count on to keep us out of the blazing heat, may be the cause of a blaze in our home. According to a 2016 report by the National Fire Protection Association home air conditioners cause an average of 20 deaths, 140 injuries, and $82million in property damage annually. There are some things you can do to help prevent fires cause by air conditioning units. By performing proper maintenance on your unit, you can reduce the risk of a fire in your home.  Changing the filter regularly and ensuring there is adequate power supply to the unit will help reduce the risk of fire in your home. As temps rise and units are running more continuously there can become electrical issues with home cooling systems. This could catch nearby combustibles on fire.  Avoid using power strips or extension cords. These can very easily overheat and catch fire. Stay safe as things start to heat up out there.

The Danger Is Not Over After A House Fire

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

A house fire can cause serious damage.  Many of the items in your home may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke and water.  You may see the items that did not burn, but are now ruined from the smoke and are soggy with water. 

Please use caution and understand the risk to your safety and health even after the fire is out. Be careful if you go into your home as it can, and will be, dangerous.

Do not eat, drink or breathe in anything that has been near the flames, smoke, soot or water used to put out the fire.

Contact SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea we’ll start the process to get your home and life back to normal.  We will have a technician meet with you and go over your options and help you make your next step i.e., Securing your home, Estimating the damages, discussing restoring vs. replacing, inventory of your items, cleaning of your items, returning your items once repairs have been completed on your home

Emergency Ready Kit

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Its important to have an emergency kit ready!

Emergency kits, are too important to put them together when a disaster strikes.  Natural disasters usually happen suddenly, and kits need to be ready to go at a location near the door so you can focus on the safety of your family or personnel first. 

Below are examples of what to include in your emergency kit.

What to Include in a kit for a group of 2 to 3 people -- Medical items to keep in a first aid kit include the following:

• Adhesive bandages
• Gauze pads
• Towelettes to clean wounds
• Emergency blankets
• Adhesive Tape
• Rope
• Water bottles or packets
• Three days of food/snacks
• Change of clothing
• Radio

Place kits in a location that are easily accessible.

Our Technicians Are Thoroughly Trained And Certified

3/6/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to versatility and capacity, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea  is prepared for anything. SERVPRO has over 38 years of knowledge and experience in the cleanup and restoration industry. We know that disastrous times leave you full of uncertainty. We want you to feel comfort in knowing that all of our technicians are thoroughly trained and certified. Each of our crew members complete Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certifications, Employee Certification Trainings, and e-Learnings. The IICRC certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our crew members study IICRC regulations and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses. We hold our quality of work to the highest of standards. We are most famous for ability to handle large-scale disasters like fires and water losses but are also willing to handle even the smallest or strangest job. If you are unsure of how to handle a situation, give us a call. We can help!

House Fire!

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Home is a place to relax after a busy day. Home is where your daily routines begin and end. Having a housefire can disrupt your daily routine and be very traumatizing. Although your world turns upside down after a fire loss, it is important to get a plan in place to help you recover your home. The quicker you call SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea to begin mitigation and restoration on your home, the sooner you can get back to your daily routine.

A fire at your home can be devastating but our team of knowledgeable professionals will work efficiently to get you back in your home quickly and safely. If disaster strikes, call us anytime at 507-396-6644. We are Here to Help

A Water Loss Can Come From An Unexpected Places!

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

When you think of a water loss at a residence, what probably comes to mind first is a flood, storm or other natural occurrence. Or maybe you think of a leaky roof or a basement filling with ground water from a heavy rainstorm. What probably doesn’t come immediately to mind is a broken aquarium or a dishwasher gone awry. Water damage can be caused by all sorts of unfortunate events. Regardless of how a property starts taking on water SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is here to help. Our crew will act fast to assess the situation, prevent further damage and extract the water. Using our equipment and moisture meters we will quickly restore your property following a water loss.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea, contact us 24/7 at 507-396-6644

Got Mold? We Can Help You!

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

This photo is of Mold found in the corner of a home!

Although there are tons of tips and tricks on how to "kill" mold, scientifically, it is not the correct way to deal with mold in a home. Wiping mold may look like it has been properly treated but the spore count can still be fairly high and can grow back without removing the source. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea suggests removing any porous material that has come in contact with mold. There's nothing safer for the treatment of mold than to just remove the source and thoroughly clean. SERVPRO uses systems and environmental controls to accomplish this without contaminating other parts of the home. If the mold extends over to the framing of your house, the area would need to get wiped down, dried out, and completely cleaned to make sure the layer of wood that had the spores attached to it is completely mitigated. Mold can be very tricky and unpredictable. It is okay to ask a professional to come take care of this.

If you find mold in your home, Contact the professionals at the SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea 507-396-6644

We Can Help When Disaster Strikes!

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Even if the fire only affected one area in your home or business, we are Here To Help!

As shocking as a large and widespread disaster might be to your home or business, having a plan in place to help you recover your loss and restore the property is critical. The faster a professional restoration company can begin mitigation and restoration on your home or business, the less time that this process usually takes to complete.

Once first responders have left the scene and the fire was extinguished, you get your first look at the fire damages to your property. It is at this point that you realize you need a team of trained technicians that can work quickly to return your home to normal. Our SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea team can help.

Our SERVPRO of Austin & Albert response team can arrive quickly with our industry-leading equipment to mitigate the immediate losses and set up a plan to restore your property fast. Give us a call anytime disaster strikes at 507-396-6644

Faulty Appliances Can Cause Big Problems!

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

Busted dishwasher line can lead to disaster!

Think of all the appliances in your home that are connected to a water supply. Now think of all oh the hoses, pipes, valves, etc. that can fail unexpectedly. Dishwashers alone have a 20% failure rate in the first 3 to 4 years of being used typically due to a damaged supply or drainage line. More than half of all claims are caused by supply hose failure. If your home has a sump pump, there are several ways that it can fail including: loss of power, dirty water, missing/broken valves, frozen/clogged lines, and more. When thinking about toilets, we know that clogging followed by an overflow is quite common, making up about 1/3 of all water damage caused by toilets. These can be easily damaged resulting in possible water buildup, and you will also want to have the water lines inspected annually. There are ways to prepare for water damage such as leak detection systems, especially with a shutoff to the main water supply. Check your hoses, supply lines, valves, etc. annually and plan to replace if you see any damage or cracking.

Make sure to call your local SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea as soon as you discover water damage to reduce further damage to your home.

We can be reached 24/7 at 507-396-6644

6 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Your Home or Business

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Freezing and bursting pipes are not only an inconvenience but can also cause serious water damage to your home or business.

Minnesota winters come with freezing temperatures and plenty of ice and snow, easily causing pipes to freeze. Frozen pipes are a problem because they prevent water flow and can eventually burst, causing damage and potential flooding in your home or business.

Water has a unique property, it expands as it freezes. This expansion causes an immense amount of pressure on whatever is containing it. No matter the strength of the pipe, expanding water can cause pipes to break. The good news is, there are ways to prevent pipes from freezing.

Which Pipes Are Most at Risk?

Pipes that are exposed to the outside elements and are along the exterior walls of your home. These pipes may need extra protection during the winter, which include the following:

• Outdoor hose hookups and faucets.
• Swimming pool supply lines.
• Lawn sprinkler lines.
• Water pipes in unheated, interior locations such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages and kitchen and bathroom cabinets.
• Pipes running against exterior walls with little or no insulation.

Preventing Frozen Pipes (Internal)

1. Maintain Heat When Traveling- If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and prevent any water inside from freezing.
2. Cold Water Drip- When the weather is below freezing outside, let the cold-water drip from the faucet. Allowing water to run through the pipes (even at a trickle) helps prevent pipes from freezing. When a pipe freezes the pressure created between the blockage and faucet will cause the pipes to burst. Leaving the faucet open will help avoid blockage in the pipes.
3. Insulation- Adding insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces will help maintain higher temperatures in these areas. Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeve to help decrease the chances of freezing.
4. Seal the Gaps- Gaps may occur where the pipes come into the building and allow cold air in, which can expose the area where your pipes are most vulnerable. Seal these spaces/gaps with foam insulation or caulk.
5. Open Cabinet Doors In some homes the kitchen and bathroom sinks can be located against an exterior wall. Locations such as these are not insulated as well and cold air from outside can freeze the pipes beneath the sinks. To help fight the influx of cold air, leave the cabinet doors open to assist the movement of warmer air.
6. Keep Doors Closed: Close garage and basement doors, by keeping them closed it’ll help keep the temperature a little warmer in these areas and keep out the wind. This is important if there is a water supply line travelling through them, as these spaces are more at risk in freezing temperatures.

Preventing Frozen Pipes (External)

• Drain External Water Lines: Close internal valves that supply water to the exterior and drain water lines from the outside.

Water Damage Cleanup from Frozen Pipes

Once the main water valve is shut off  and the pipes are repaired, SERPVRO of Austin & Albert Lea can be there to help with the cleanup and restoration. The longer the water sits in the building materials, the more potential for damage and mold growth.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is licensed, experienced, and available 24/7 when it comes to returning your home or business to its preloss condition, “Like it never even happened.” As soon as we arrive, the cleanup and restoration process will begin immediately.

SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Call us at (507) 396-6644

Specialty Cleaning Services in Austin?

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

We provide specialty cleaning services in the Albert Lea area.

That darn kid!

It never fails. Right before a big holiday celebration, someone forgets to take off their shoes after traipsing through the muddy yard and soils the carpeting. Oh no! Oh yes, that darn kid did it again! Fortunately for the kid, SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea provides a wide range of specialty cleaning services that go way beyond what a typical cleaning service can do. Our technicians are specialty trained to remove deep soil, offensive odor, and even the most resistant stains from carpets and upholstered furniture. We offer a range of specialized cleaning methods, including:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

We also can schedule preventative maintenance service to keep your carpet and upholstery looking its best.

Call Us Today!

When you need cleaning services that go beyond what a standard cleaning service does, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Here to Help. ^® Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your carpets and upholstery in Austin, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Warehouse Disaster in Albert Lea?

12/20/2020 (Permalink)

We are commercial water restoration specialists in Austin.

Lights, cameras, water?

We were filming a corporate video for our manufacturing company in Albert Lea and had cameras and special lighting set up for the shoot. The speakers were reviewing their lines, the video team was taking light measurements and doing sound checks, and then it happened. The high heat triggered the indoor sprinkler head above the special lighting, and it started discharging water. Water was raining down from the sprinkler onto the film crew; the cameras, the set, and the entire area got drenched before we could deactivate the sprinkler. What a disaster!

When a fire or water emergency damages your commercial property SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea will mobilize a team of highly trained cleanup and restoration technicians to restore the damage quickly and efficiently. We know that every second counts and no matter how big the job is, we will get you back to “business as usual” with minimal disruption to your employees and customers.

Call Us Today!

When you have a commercial water damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is ready to respond 24 hours a day. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your commercial damage in Albert Lea, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Storm Winterization in Blue Earth?

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

We have technicians on call 24 hours a day to mitigate water damage in the Austin area.

A mixed bag of weather for December

Looking at the weather forecast for December, Blue Earth looks like it can expect a mixture of wind, ice, snow, and rain! SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea has been helping residents and business owners mitigate storm damage for years, and we have the experience and advanced training to restore damage quickly and efficiently.

Here are some tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency on protecting your property from storm damage:

• Winterize your home by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows or covering windows with plastic.
• Insulate water pipes and allow faucets to drip or trickle during frigid weather or if the power and heat go out to avoid burst pipes. Know how to shut off water valves if a pipe bursts.
• Clear rain gutters and repair roof leaks. Clear away tree branches that could damage your house. Keep pathways clear between storms.
• Install battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors.
• Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure everyone knows how to use them.
• Maintain heating equipment and have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional every year.

Call Us Today!

When you have a storm damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is ready to respond 24 hours a day. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your storm damage in Blue Earth, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Water Intrusion Emergency in Albert Lea?

12/7/2020 (Permalink)

We have technicians on call 24 hours a day to mitigate water damage in the Austin area.

Patio Blues

My friend recently purchased a home in Albert Lea, and while she was remodeling her kitchen, it rained. Because the cabinets were torn out, she could see the water coming into the kitchen from the patio. Yikes! The water was pooling on the patio and intruding into the wall instead of draining away from the house. The patio had to be re-engineered, and she called SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea to mitigate the water damage. When they arrived, they immediately began the water extraction process and placed sandbags outside to prevent further water intrusion. After all the water was extracted, they set up drying and dehumidifying equipment to prevent further moisture damage to the interior walls and floors. Within days they had repaired the water damage to the kitchen interior and exterior walls. By the time they completed the restoration process, you’d never know there was ever any water damage to begin with! 

Call Us!

When you have a  water damage emergency of any kind, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is ready to respond and can usually be onsite within four hours of your call.  Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Albert Lea, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Commercial Restoration Services in Austin?

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

We offer many commercial building services in Albert Lea!

Commercial Restoration

Did you know that SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea offers building and reconstruction services in Austin? When you experience damage to your business from fire, water, or storm damage, we will secure the building to prevent additional damage and then we will provide the restoration and reconstruction services to get your property back to preloss condition. This keeps your costs low and gives you one qualified company to handle the entire restoration process!

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of commercial restoration services including:

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Linoleum Floor Repair
• Marble Floor Repair
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Fencing
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair
• Tree Removal

SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea responds to commercial property emergencies 24 hours a day and restores damage done to buildings like:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us!

When your business or home experiences property damage, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll restore your commercial property in Austin, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Bad Odor Removal in Blue Earth?

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

We are deodorization specialists in Albert Lea!

Something Smells Rotten in Blue Earth!

Have you ever walked into a room and smelled a horrible smell you couldn’t identify? Bad odors can create such a strong emotional reaction that the United States Department of Defense has even considered using them for nonlethal warfare! Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea has a team of highly trained odor removal technicians ready to respond to your call. They are trained to identify and eliminate offensive odors that can originate from within or outside of a structure.

Bad smells at home can be attributed to many sources. According to an online article in The Handyman, the most common sources of bad odor in a home are:

• Stinky dishwasher
• Garbage disposal
• Refrigerator
• Dirty carpet
• New furniture
• Stale bed sheets
• Smelly closet
• Mildew
• Laundry room
• Mud room

We Use Science

Odors can originate from the sources listed above, as well as from sources like rats, bats, racoons, opossums, and other vermin nesting in attic spaces or inside of your walls. Once our technicians have identified the source of the odor or odors, they have access to several odor removal products that can thoroughly penetrate and neutralize them.

Call Us Today

Blue Earth residents know that SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is ready to respond 24 hours a day to their call. Call us today at 507-396-6644.

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Flood Damage on Main Street in Albert Lea?

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Austin!

Sandbagged in Albert Lea

This year, Albert Lea has seen some pretty severe storms and weather events. Torrential rains brought flash flood warnings and flooding. Main Street in Albert Lea gets flooded on a regular basis and it is also the most frequently used street in town. Local news coverage of the flooding issue attributes the flooding to two sources. One source is regional flooding due to lake flooding, and the other source is localized flooding from a small watershed that drains into this area. Although the cause of the flooding is known, the solutions are costly, and there is currently no specific date for when the city will move forward on mitigating the flooding.

SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea has seen firsthand the damage this flooding causes to businesses in this area of Albert Lea. Our storm damage restoration technicians respond to flooding and other storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We arrive with the equipment and experience needed to mitigate flood and storm damage and we work to get your business restored with minimal disruption to your customers and employees.

Call Us Today!

When you need help with a storm damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your property damage in Albert Lea, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fast Emergency Response Time Austin and Albert Lea?

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

We are on call 24 hours a day to respond to any property damage emergency in Austin!

Fast Response Time

My company in Albert Lea is really on top of emergency procedures, and we regularly have evacuation drills in case of a real emergency. Everyone is briefed on what to do when they hear the evacuation signal, they know what door to exit through, and where to meet up outside of the building. Everyone is required to remain at their designated location until everyone is accounted for, and the emergency drill is over.

Last week we had a real emergency when a pipe burst and flooded the manufacturing building’s entire first floor. The water main was turned off, but there was so much water on the floor that is was not safe to return to work, so we were told to go home. While I was talking to my boss, I saw the trucks from SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea arriving. Using powerful extraction equipment, they began pumping up the standing water and installed air blowers and movers to dry the building overnight.

When we arrived to work the next day, it was as if there had never been a flooded floor!

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is ready to respond 24 hours a day or night to any property damage emergency. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll restore your commercial damage in Albert Lea, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Restoration Services in Albert Lea?

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

We restore fire, smoke, and soot damage in Austin.

Fire Department Trivia

Did you know that the Albert Lea Bucket Brigade was organized on November 22, 1870? It consisted of thirty volunteers! Here’s a brief timeline on the history of fire rescue in Albert Lea:

• 1870, Albert Lea Bucket Brigade is formed
• 1879, Albert Lea Fire Department is organized
• 1879, steam engine water pump and two hose carts pulled by horses
• 1891, waterworks system is completed
• 1903, new City Hall on North Broadway housed the Fire Department in two floors
• 1918, the first motor-driven water pump goes into service
• 1948, Fire Department becomes a fully paid organization
• 1968, Fire Department moves to 221 East Clark Street
• 1991, combines with Albert Lea Township Fire Department

Lightning strikes, faulty electrical cords, floating embers, and many other sources can cause fires to break out. SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea has been serving the commercial businesses and residents of the Austin and Albert Lea areas for many years. We take pride in the many fire, smoke, and soot clean up and restoration services we offer to return your property to preloss condition.

Call Us Today

When you need help with a fire damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is ready to respond 24 hours a day or night. We’ll clean and restore your property damage in Albert Lea, “Like it never even happened.”

Call us today at 507-396-6644.

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Water Leak Slip Hazard in Albert Lea?

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Austin.

Parking garage blues

It’s never a good sign when you step out of an elevator in Albert Lea and see water running across the parking garage floor, especially if there is the chance of motor oil mixing with the water, which can cause a major slip hazard for anyone coming in contact with it.

Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea has an emergency response team on call 24 hours a day to take care of unforeseen water damage emergencies like this parking garage scenario, and can typically be onsite within four hours of your call.

When you contact us, we will ask you a series of questions to determine the number of technicians to send and the type of equipment to bring. Based on your needs, we will assess the damage and use state-of-the-art technology to extract the water, dry the area and restore, and clean and sanitize the damaged zone. We work to complete the repair process quickly with minimal disruption to your home or commercial business.

Call Us Today

When you need help with a water damage emergency of any size, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Halloween Party Fire in Austin?

10/5/2020 (Permalink)

Don’t let fire “haunt” your Halloween party this year!

Halloween Fire Facts

October is here, and that means lots of scary costumes and fun parties to attend. SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea wishes all of the residents in the Austin and Albert Lea communities a fun and safe Halloween this year. We have responded to many fire damage emergencies over the years and know what fires of all sizes can do to a home. Even in rooms not affected by the fire, smoke, smoke odor, and soot will cause damage to these areas as well. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides safety tips and seasonal information on its website. Here are some interesting Halloween fire facts from the NFPA:

• From 2013-2017, an average of 780 home structure fires began with decorations per year 
• More than two of every five (44 percent) of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source, such as a candle or hot equipment
• More than one-third (37 percent) of these fires were started by candles
• One-fifth (21 percent) of the decoration fires started in the kitchen; 16 percent began in the living room

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is on call 24 hours a day in Austin to respond to your fire damage emergency. Call us today at 507-396-6644.

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Are You Prepared for Winter Weather in Austin?

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

A little preparation goes a long way to preventing winter property damage in Albert Lea.

Winter is Coming

The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts winter snowfall to be near-to-above normal this year. This gives Austin and Albert Lea residents plenty of time to prepare for winter weather. September and October are forecast to have above-normal temperatures and low precipitation rates, so this will be a perfect time to inspect your home and repair any areas to prevent water intrusion in the coming months. Having a well-stocked emergency kit in the event of a power outage is essential. According to a report published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), power outages from storms have doubled since 2003, and about 44 percent of these outages are storm-related. SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea has been serving the Austin and Albert Lea communities for years and has helped many residents and commercial business owners repair property damage caused by storms. Here are some suggestions from the American Red Cross on how to prepare in advance for a power outage:

• Assemble an emergency preparedness kit
• Create a household evacuation plan that includes your pets
• Stay informed about your community’s risk and response plans
• Educate your family on how to use the Safe and Well Website
• Download the Emergency App for iPhone or Android

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is on call 24 hours a day in Austin to respond to your storm damage emergency. Call us today at 507-396-6644.

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Disaster Recovery Team in Austin & Albert Lea?

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

We can respond to any size storm emergency in Austin.

Tornadoes in Minnesota?

Tornadoes are becoming a common occurrence in Minnesota. In 2018, a record number of fifteen were recorded on September 20^th. These tornadoes landed in or around over eighteen different Minnesota towns and communities. They damaged and destroyed dozens of structures, and according to an article published in the Northfield News, many people avoided injury due to early warning messages received on their cell phones. Austin and Albert Lea residents can rest easy knowing that SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea is uniquely positioned to help communities facing catastrophic storm damage through access to the nationwide Disaster Recovery Team.

The Disaster Recovery Team specializes in responding to catastrophic storms and major events that affect entire communities throughout the nation. Because they can mobilize local command centers and can pull resources from the over 1700 SERVPRO franchises, they can respond quickly to any size disaster.

Call Us

We respond to blizzards, tornadoes, floods, and other storm emergencies and major events quickly, and once on site we will immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process. SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is on call 24 hours a day to respond to your storm damage emergency. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your storm-damaged property in Austin “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Damage Restoration Services in Albert Lea?

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

We are fire cleanup and restoration specialists in Austin.

Fire Damage is Pervasive

According to a report published by the National Fire Protection Association:

• Every 24 seconds a fire department in the United States responds to a fire somewhere in the nation
• A fire occurs in a structure at the rate of one every 63 seconds
• A home fire occurs every 87 seconds

SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea has been providing a variety of fire restoration and cleaning services to the Albert Lea community for years. Our team of highly trained technicians are certified in fire restoration to safely clean and restore household items damaged by fire. We will pretest your belongings to determine what can be restored to pre-fire condition and we use several methods of cleaning including:

• Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning
• Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
• Spray and Wipe -effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
• Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is on call 24 hours a day to respond to any size fire damage emergency. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your fire-damaged household items in Albert Lea “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Dirty Ducts in Austin?

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

We clean ductwork of all sizes in Albert Lea.

Dirty Ducts

Can you remember the last time you checked your facilities HVAC system? According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA), maintaining a healthy indoor environment in schools, whether they are open or not,  is an important part of defensive cleaning related to the new coronavirus, COVID-19 pandemic. SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea wants facilities managers in the Austin and Albert Lea area to be aware of these EPA guidelines for developing routine HVAC systems maintenance:

• Ensure school HVAC systems are operating properly, with outdoor ventilation air maintained at or above design minimum values. Determine whether HVAC systems comply with the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Standard 62.1 ventilation requirements at the system level and in the breathing zones of all occupied spaces.
• Employ filtration and gas-phase air cleaning strategies to further improve IAQ, in conjunction with source control strategies and maintaining minimum ventilation rates. Change filters regularly and ensure condensate pans are draining.

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea has a team of highly trained professionals that routinely inspect and clean heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll inspect and clean your HVAC systems and air ducts in Albert Lea “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Advanced Technology in Albert Lea?

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

We use advanced technologies and techniques to restore property damage in Austin.

Advanced Equipment and Techniques

Did you know that new advances in technologies allow SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea to provide more efficient, cost-saving restoration services to the Albert Lea community? By adopting new technologies, we save commercial businesses and residents time and money, and we can restore the property damage back to preloss condition quickly and with less disruption. We require all of our employees and technicians to undergo continuing education and certification to stay up to speed with the newest industry standards and best practices as established by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. We use the following advanced technologies:

• Moisture detection and measurement equipment

Infrared cameras, hygrometers, and other sensitive moisture detection equipment

• Water extraction equipment

Submersible pumps and truck-mounted and portable extraction units

• Drying equipment

High-speed air movers and industrial-grade dehumidifiers

• Odor removal and deodorization

Air scrubbers and thermal foggers and deodorization agents

• Sanitizing agents, germicides, and anti-microbial treatments

OSHA-approved cleaning agents

Call Us Today

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea has a team of highly trained technicians ready to assist you with any kind of property damage emergency, day or night. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your property damage  in Albert Lea “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Broken Window in Albert Lea?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Property damage can happen at any time in Austin!

Property Crimes in Albert Lea

In a report published by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, (FBI), there were7.2 million property crime offenses reported in the United States in 2018 and 2639 property crimes reported in Albert Lea that year. The FBI report noted that violent crime decreased by 3.3 percent between 2017 and 2018. If your home or business experienced damage due to crime or trauma, SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea wants you to know that we have the specialized training, equipment, and experience to safely clean and restore the property damage caused by a crime.

Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning

After the police have finished processing the crime scene, there may be chemicals and blood, or other biohazard contaminants left behind that require special handling, removal, cleaning, disinfecting, sanitization, and odor removal including:

• Fingerprint residue and other evidence-gathering chemicals
• Tear gas and pepper spray residues
• Fire extinguisher residue
• Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants

Call Us

Property crime can happen anytime in the Austin and Albert Lea areas and SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea wants you to know that we are available 24 hours a day to help restore your property to preloss condition. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your crime scene damage  in Albert Lea “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Here to Help in Austin & Albert Lea

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

With this current pandemic sweeping our nation, many businesses have had no choice but to close their doors some for a short time and some for good. Luckily for all of us here at SERVPRO, the job we do is vital to our community and the businesses that are still open, so we're still here to help in every aspect possible.
SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has a number of services to help all sorts of businesses in their time of need, and to help them when it's time to re-open their store.

We are currently offering a very strong Viral 
Pathogen Cleaning, to ensure that your Business, is up to code and clean in the event of a viral outbreak in your facility, to ensure your employees and customers are safe. By fogging and disinfecting your business, we can provide more comprehensive coverage, and provide certified documentation that your facility has been cleaned by an IICRC certified company with of 50 years of experience and an IICRC trained technician. The product we use is so safe it can be used on children’s toys and it has been approved for human consumption.

If you are interested in this vital service, please contact us using the button above or, if you are so inclined, call us at 507-396-6644 for more information. We're here to help, we're here to get our nation back on its feet, we're here to make it "Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Storm caused Flood in Albert Lea, MN

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

Experiencing a water loss can be a tough time for you and your family. It is important to not worry and that help can be provided to get your home back to pre loss condition. First thing you want to do is focus on limiting damage. Make sure the source of the water loss is turned off. If you are not sure what is causing it, call a professional company like SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea and inform us of your problem and we will have our trained and certified technicians on the way to help immediately. 

Once the loss has been contained, our crew will began extracting the water. The longer the water sits, the more damage it will start to cause. Once the water is extracted, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea will start to place air movers and other drying equipment in your home or business to get it completely dried and prepare for the rebuild process. 

A lot of time depending on the size of the loss, you might want to reach out to your insurance company and get them involved, that way you are 100% sure what they will cover. Sometimes if the water loss is a smaller loss it is best to handle out of pocket to prevent an increase in rates with your insurance provider. Here at SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea we know it is very important to get thing back to normal in your home or business. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at 507-396-6644. 

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Safety Prevention in Albert Lea?

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

We are fire restoration specialists in Austin.

Fire Safety Tips

According to data published by the National Fire Protection Association, (NFPA), sixty-nine percent of home fires happened between 2013 and 2017. The highest cause of home fires was cooking. SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea wants you to know that we are experienced fire restoration specialists with years of experience mitigating fire damage in the Austin area. Here are some fire prevention safety tips from the NFPA to keep you and your family safe: 

• Watch your cooking
              If you must leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove
• Give space heaters space
  Keep fixed and portable space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn and turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep
• Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs, or have loose connections
• Be careful when using candles
  Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn and blow them out when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Make a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year
  
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas
  

Call Us

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is available 24 hours a day to assist you with any size fire damage emergency. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage  in Austin “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Hail Damage in Albert Lea?

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

We are storm damage restoration specialists in Austin!

Storm Repair Specialists

Minnesota has already seen some pretty significant weather events this year. In June severe storms created golf ball to baseball-sized hail, wind gusts over 60 miles per hour, and tornadoes. Thunderstorms have been bringing lightning strikes to the state and in a town south of Albert Lea an apartment complex was struck by lightning, causing a small fire to break out. SERVPRO® of Austin & Albert Lea wants you to know that we have the specialized training, equipment, and experience to safely clean and restore any size storm damage. Our technicians are trained to perform a variety of fire, water, and other damage cleanup and repair services and are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, (IICRC), for the following specialties:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - 30-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Call Us

Property damage caused by storms in the Albert Lea area is common, and SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea wants you to know that we are on call 24 hours a day to assist you. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of Austin and Lea can’t control teenagers, but it can control water damage

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

Austin doesn’t have to ban family members from showers when SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is here to the rescue

A True Story

Imagine a teenager taking a marathon-length shower. Imagine the teenager deciding to leave the shower door partially open to let out steam, releasing water to flow onto the bathroom floor and drip through to the ceiling below, releasing gentle rain into a light fixture, then onto the hallway floor.

A Happy Ending

No, the parents didn’t send the teen to boarding school.

Whatever the source, water damage in Austin causes problems for homes and businesses. SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is prepared to send a water-restoration crew to a disaster any time of the day or night, on any day of the year. Call (507) 396-6644.

We are Faster to any size disaster

Whether the floor is soaked down to the ceiling below, or an entire building is flooded, count on SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea to arrive in time to assess and stop damage. Water can swell and warp wood, damage linoleum or tile, and crumble drywall or plaster. When water has more time to soak into structures, it has time to cause more damage. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has state-of-the-art equipment and training to extract much more water than bath towels (or even industrial-size mops) can. Technicians measure the indoor humidity so they can track down and remove hidden moisture with dehumidifiers and dryers.

Restore instead of Replace

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea saves costs and reduces anxiety by providing restoration services as well as water removal.

If Austin residents or business owners have questions, they can call (507) 396-6644 or check out our extensive services on our website.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROaustinalbertlea.com/

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea tells water damage to dry up

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

If rainwater ends up inside, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea will clean it up

Gutters and other roof-top drainage systems keep water from damaging roofs and from seeping into the buildings’ foundations. If these systems get blocked by debris or broken, water damage is a likely result.

If there’s a problem with water damage, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has a solution: call us, any time, at (507) 396-6644.

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Here to Help^® when water damage swamps Austin & Albert Lea homes or businesses. We are available for emergencies 24 hours a day, no matter what the day. That means we start water extraction – perhaps even before the water has a chance to permanently damage a building or the residents’/ businesses’ belongings. Call us as soon as you notice the water emergency.

Water extraction is only the first step. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea dries and dehumidifies structures and contents, and then works to clean, disinfect, and restore everything to preloss condition whenever possible. Technicians have the training to identify how different materials need to be cleaned, and the equipment to do the work. Teams include people certified in cleaning and restoring carpet, furniture, drywall, and other parts of the structure and contents. Disinfection controls odors and further deterioration, but SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea also has equipment that will get rid of odors. We don’t cover up odors. We remove them.

Check us out for regular maintenance as well as for disaster recovery.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROaustinalbertlea.com/

Except the unexcepted

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

firework fun

Summertime presents us with great weather, opportunities for family reunions, and more time with the family in general.  During this time, especially during a pandemic, entertaining your family during the summer can be a lot of fun!  From grilling your favorite summertime meal, to setting off fireworks at night, summertime involves a lot of activities that can become dangerous if safety measures are not in place and adhered to. 

     Next week will be the 4^th of July and many families will be shooting off fireworks, grilling and having yard events.  SERVPRO of Albert Lea/ Austin would like to share some useful safety tips that could help prevent fire outbreaks. 

• When grilling and using lighter fluids and gas, make sure you are at a safe distance from your home and other structures, and that there are no flammable materials close enough to the grill. Keep an eye on which direction the wind is blowing and adjust, as necessary.  If using gas, ensure that connections are good and that the gas is turned off when not in use. 
• When setting off fireworks, make sure that fuses and wicks are long enough, adults are supervising sparklers and proximity factors, and that aerial fireworks are set off securely and at a safe distance from trees, homes, power lines, and other structures.
• Be sure to monitor yard torches using kerosene and other accelerants, and that their bases are secure with no hazards around them. Keep in mind that if a torch were to spill an accelerant, the fuel expelled becomes a fire hazard on anything that it touches. 
• When setting a bonfire, always consider where the wind is blowing and its speed. Bonfires need to be placed at a safe distance (at least 25 ft) from homes and other structures, and you need to have a fire extinguishment source at hand in case of emergency.  Some things to keep on hand would be sand/dirt and shovels, a fire extinguisher, a water barrel, a garden hose or anything that can be used quickly to extinguish fires.

Take time to enjoy the summer and the activities that come with it, but always be safe in doing so and consider these pointers when planning your fun filled adventures!       

Property Damage in Albert Lea?

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

We are property damage restoration specialists in Austin.

Fireworks and Property Damage

Although fireworks cause almost 20,000 fires each year, they are still legal in some states and cities in the nation. Some cities offer Safe and Sane zones so it will be important to check and see if fireworks are allowed in your area. According to a report produced by the National Fire Protection Association, (NFPA), property damage related to fireworks amounted to $105 million in direct property damage in the U.S. in 2018. SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea wants commercial business owners in Austin to know that if you experience any form of property damage we want to help, and we have years of restoration experience to serve your needs.

Securing Your Property

From the moment you contact us, our immediate concern will be to secure your property and board up and protect anything damaged. Our goal is to restore your property and get you back to business as quickly as possible, with little or no inconvenience to your customers and employees.

Call Us Today

Independence Day will soon be here and  SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is here to support Austin business owners and residents alike. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your property “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Mold Mitigation in Blue Earth?

6/23/2020 (Permalink)

We remediate mold in Albert Lea.

Mold Facts

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (CDC,) molds are a very common type of fungus that thrives in moist environments. Water leaks around roofs, windows or pipes, air conditioning units that have sat unused over the winter, or in areas where there has been flooding. The CDC reports that mold spores are found indoors and outdoors and can enter through home airways and can also travel on clothing, shoes, and pets. Once they find the optimum environment to grow, they grow quickly. Suitable mold nutrients include many building materials such as wet paper products and cardboard, ceiling tiles, and wood and wood products. Molds have even been known to grow in dust, some paints, wallpaper, drywall, carpet, and fabric. SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea wants commercial business and homeowners of Blue Earth to know that we are mold remediation specialists. Although mold can never be completely eradicated, it can be arrested and controlled.

Advanced Technology and Techniques

After we inspect and access the mold damage, we will use advanced mold remediation techniques and equipment to remediate the damage by:

• Mold containment
• Air filtration
• Removal of mold-infested materials
• Content cleaning
• Restoration

Call Us

If you have a mold concern, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your mold damage  in Blue Earth “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea battles storm damage

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms can’t win against SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea

The people who own and work at SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea are part of the community; they know what summer storms can do. The combination of high humidity and warm air makes thunderstorms more likely in the summer than at other times of the year, with the most likely dangers being lightning strikes and flash floods.

If a storm causes damage to Albert Lea homes or businesses, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has the help you need.

We are very aware that whether a storm damages one room or an entire building, the damage is a crisis for the people who live in the homes or who own the businesses. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea therefore has 24-hour emergency service.  Call us at (507) 396-6644 for an immediate response, even on weekends and holidays.

Our technicians have training in rescuing storm-damaged buildings and personal or business belongings. They clean, disinfect, and restore property to preloss condition.  For floods, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea removes water before it can cause additional damage. If lightning strikes cause fires, they get rid of the damage from smoke and soot. In all cases, they bring the training and equipment to clean, disinfect and restore not just the floors and walls, but the carpets, upholstery, electronics, and documents.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is always available in an emergency as well as to answer questions any time. Call (507) 396-6644.

FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROaustinalbertlea.com/

Barbeque Fire Damage in Austin?

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

We are fire damage restoration specialists in Albert Lea.

July is the Peak Month for Grill Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association, (NFPA), between 2014 and 2018 barbeques, hibachis and other outdoor grills were involved in an average of 10,600 home fires per year. In a research report published by the NFPA, 18 percent of grill fires occur in July. SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea wants Austin residents to know that we have years of experience dealing with fire damage losses and no job is too big or too small. Our fire damage restoration specialists will work with your insurance company and help you with the paperwork and process. Here are some grilling safety tips offered by the NFPA:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches
• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area
• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and from the trays below the grill
• Never leave your grill unattended
• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container

If your property experiences fire damage, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage  in Austin “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Reconstruction Services in Austin?

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

We provide many reconstruction services in Albert Lea.

U.S. Property Damage Claims

According to the Insurance Information Institute, (III) each year about one in twenty insured homes in the United States has a property damage claim related to:

• About one in 50 claims are related to wind or hail
• About one in 50 claims are caused by water damage or freezing
• About one in 325 claims are due to a property damage claim due to theft
• About one in 360 claims are due to fire and lightning

Reconstruction Services

Many times, property damage claims involve a series of restoration and reconstruction services to restore the property to pre-damage condition. SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert Lea wants commercial business owners in Austin to know that we can simplify the building and reconstruction process by handling both the initial damage restoration process and the rebuilding process. When rebuilding services are required, we can supervise a full range of reconstruction services including board up, drywall removal, repair and installation, electrical, HVAC services, roofing services, painting, floor repair, temporary fencing, carpet repair and installation and a whole compliment of specialized restoration services for fine art, document drying, dry cleaning and more.

Call Us

No matter what kind of property damage you may have, SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert Lea is here to provide rebuilding and reconstruction services to Austin business owners and residents. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll restore and rebuild your property “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert/Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Water Intrusion in Blue Earth?

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in basements is not uncommon in Albert Lea.

Water Intrusion Causes Water Damage

According the United Stated Geological Service (USGS), water intrusion is caused when water from a source outside the structure finds its way inside. Broken pipes, rainfall, snowmelt, underground streams, and flooding all can contribute to water intrusion. Water damage, especially standing water, can cause expensive structural damage if left untreated too long as the water will have been given the opportunity to seep into baseboards, absorb into drywall and weaken wooden beams and framing, etc. SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert Lea wants the residents of Blue Earth to know that our highly trained water restoration technicians can be onsite within four hours of your call to begin the mitigation process. 

The Water Damage Restoration Process

After we have determined the scope of your water damage, we will begin the water extraction process using powerful pumps and vacuum units. After the extraction process, we will use specialized equipment to dry and dehumidify the rooms, followed by cleaning, repair, and sanitizing treatments to restore your home or business to pre-water damage condition. We can even help with the insurance paperwork and process.

Call Us Today

When you find water damage in your home or business in Blue Earth,  SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert Lea wants to help. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll clean and restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert/Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Austin & Albert Lea Can Count on Us

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea restores a water-damaged property

Around River City, we love how the water flows, but not on the floors or down the walls.

If water threatens to damage a home or business, SERVPRO^® of Austin & Albert Lea is Here to Help^®

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea arrives quickly (Faster to any size disaster) to remove standing water and hidden moisture. We also have dryers that prevent further water damage or new damage from microbial growth (including mold).

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea will clean and disinfect the area, and make sure that odors won’t linger; our trained technicians remove odors instead of just covering them up with sprays.

Call us at 507-396-6644 24/7/365. You can also ask for help online.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.greenbuilt.org/the-top-3-ways-that-water-destroys-our-homes-and-buildings/

https://www.SERVPROmasoncity.com/

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea works for the Mason City area

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea Clean Your Business

COVID-19 has brought immense changes to the Mason City area. SERVPRO^® of Mason City, Austin, & Albert Lea keeps up with the changes through the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Iowa’s COVID-19 website.

If another disaster piles on during this pandemic, SERVPRO of Mason City/Austin/Albert Lea is Here to Help^®

We can still help your business recover from water damage, fire, or storms, or mold and other biohazards. Our technicians will arrive quickly, and will work in accordance with all federal guidelines to minimize the threat of spreading COVID-19.

Don’t wait for an emergency. SERVPRO of Mason City/Austin/Albert Lea can help business owners reduce the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19 – for themselves, their employees, and the community at large. Schedule a proactive deep cleaning today.

We will clean and disinfect electronics, frequently contacted surfaces, and both porous and nonporous materials.

We’re available 24/7

Call (641) 424-3382 or contact us online.

Count on us to remove damage "Like it never even happened." ^®

SERVPRO of Mason City, Austin, & Albert Lea is independently owned and operated.

Link:

https://www.SERVPROmasoncity.com/

CDC Guidelines for Disinfecting Your Home in Lea

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

We provide cleaning and sanitizing services to residents of Austin.

We Follow CDC Guidelines

The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), offers loads of information on what they currently know about the new coronavirus, COVID-19. On their website, you can find information on COVID-19, and topics on what they know about how the virus is spread, how to protect yourself, how to clean your home or facility, what to do if someone gets sick, social distancing, daily life, and coping strategies and many more. SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert Lea wants Lea homeowners and business to know that we have been providing specialty cleaning services to safely clean biological pathogens similar to COVID-19 for years. We follow local authority and CDC guidelines and use labeled, hospital-grade products to clean and sanitize your home or business.

We Are Specialty Trained

Our technicians are specialty trained to remove biological contaminants and other biohazards and are required to attend continuing education classes to stay current on industry standards and new advancements.

Call Us Today

When you require cleanup and restoration services above routine janitorial services we are Here to Help. ® SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert Lea is ready to respond to specialty cleaning, fire, or water emergencies in Lea 24 hours a day. Call us today at 507-396-6644. We’ll take care of all of your emergency cleaning needs “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Austin Albert/Lea is Independently Owned and Operated.

Arson Fires in Austin & Albert Lea

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Fires can happen accidentally but it’s worse when caused by arson.

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea wants you to be aware of the causes of fire damage and fire injuries so that you can help prevent them.

Top Causes of Fires in Austin & Albert Lea: 

• Arson & intentional fires. An “intentional fire” is one that is not set to cause harm, but it gets out of control.  Arson is a fire that is set to cause harm. Most of the time, arson and intentional fires are set outside. Deaths, injuries, and fire damage usually happen indoors
• Candles. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has more information here.
• Cooking.  Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fire injuries and home fire damage
• Electrical. Use all electrical equipment according to the directions 
• Heating. Heating equipment is the second most common cause of death in home fires
• December, January, and February are the months that have the most home heating fires
• Smoking. Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other smoking materials are the biggest cause of fire deaths in the U.S. Think of preventing tragedy when explaining why to quit smoking
• Children. Children should never be left alone with matches, lighters, candles, or other dangerous materials. Children playing with fire causes hundreds of deaths and injuries every year

Please pay attention to fire safety. While we can help restore your Austin & Albert Lea home or office, prevention and family safety should always come first. Share this blog with a friend who might want to learn more about fire prevention. For more information please call us at 507-396-6644. 

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire

Beware of Flash Flooding in Austin & Albert Lea

4/21/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding in a structure can occur through natural channels such as flash flooding or through the accumulation of water over a period of time from water line leaks/ruptures. Attacking this problem without professional help can become tedious and possibly dangerous in Austin & Albert Lea. When your home and/or business are affected by water damage, it is critical to act immediately to minimize cost and inconvenience. SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea has trained professionals who are quick to respond and apply the latest equipment and techniques to make the removal of water and the restoration of your property as organized and pain-free as possible. The drying process is timed and documented to ensure the job is done quickly and completely. Our hope is that we can make the entire unwanted experience “Like it never even happened,” and that we can continue to be your cleanup and restoration specialists in the future.

Sharing the SERVPRO History in Austin & Albert Lea

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is ready to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Why SERVPRO?

Ted Isaacson opened the first SERVPRO® in 1967 in Sacramento, California selling his first Franchise in 1969.  In 1988 the SERVPRO headquarters moved to Gallatin, Tennessee. SERVPRO now has 1700+ Franchises in the United States and Canada. SERVPRO of Albert Lea/Austin specializes in cleanup and restoration services in Austin & Albert Lea. We can make your fire, smoke, water, or mold damage “Like it never even happened.” 

What does SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea do?

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea provides:

• residential & commercial cleanup of:
• water/ flood damage
• fire damage
• storm damage
• mold remediation
• restoration

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea performs these specialties, including:

• Water Restoration
• Fire Restoration
• Mold Removal
• Biohazard
• Sewage
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Trauma and Crime Scene Cleanup
• Vandalism and Graffiti
• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Ceilings, Floors, and Walls
• Carpet and Upholstery

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea works directly with most insurance companies, and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in Austin & Albert Lea.

Why SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea? Each franchise is an individually owned and operated company.  We have advanced expertise in water restoration along with specialized equipment in water removal and also advanced drying equipment.  

Technicians at SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea will keep you informed as they restore your damage so you will know what SERVPRO did, and how the process worked.  

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is independently owned and operated.

Who Should I Use for Restoration Purposes in Austin & Albert Lea

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is ready 24/7, 365 to make it "Like it never even happened."

Who should I use?

Emergency situations usually call for quick reaction. In cases where a home or business structure in Austin & Albert Lea is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is the-fast-response you need to get relief.  Chaotic situations can be handled or endured in an orderly fashion with professionals and the right tools applied. When you must choose your clean-up/restoration specialist, you are likely considering a few important things:

• Convenient location
• 24/7 availability
• Professionalism
• Efficiency
• Honesty
• Experience
• Latest equipment

SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re here to help.  SERVPRO of Austin & Albert Lea are business owners, homeowners and renters just like you so we understand the initial needs. Our promise to you is to provide the same quality and integrity based service that we, as your neighbor, may also need in the future.