Archived Blog Posts
Preparing Your Home for Strong Thunderstorms | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
6/17/2024 (Permalink)
Whether its storm damage cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is ready to respond in a moments notice to your call.
Why Preparation Matters
Living in Harlingen or San Benito means embracing the beauty of South Texas while also being aware of the unpredictable nature of its weather. Thunderstorms, with their powerful winds and torrential rains, can wreak havoc on homes if they’re not properly prepared. But fear not! With some proactive steps, you can safeguard your home and loved ones against the fury of Mother Nature.
Assessing Your Home’s Vulnerabilities
Before the storm clouds gather, take a stroll around your property and identify potential weak spots. Are your windows and doors properly sealed? Is your roof in good condition? Are there any trees or branches that could pose a threat if they were to fall? Addressing these issues ahead of time can prevent costly damage later on.
According to a study by the National Severe Storms Laboratory, reinforcing windows and doors can significantly reduce the risk of structural damage during severe weather events. Additionally, research published in the Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics suggests that regular roof maintenance can increase its resilience against high winds.
Creating a Storm Survival Kit
In the event of a power outage or evacuation, having a well-stocked emergency kit can make all the difference. Include essentials such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. Don’t forget to pack important documents like insurance policies and identification as well.
The American Red Cross recommends having enough supplies to last at least three days. By preparing ahead of time, you can ensure that you and your family are ready to weather the storm safely.
Taking Action Today
Don’t wait until the next thunderstorm is on the horizon to start preparing your home. Take proactive steps now to mitigate potential damage and keep your loved ones safe. And remember, if disaster does strike, SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is here to help you pick up the pieces and restore your home to its former glory.
Visit SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito’s website for fast recovery after any storm.
Mastering the Flames | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
6/3/2024 (Permalink)
Gather around the grill, but don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito to ensure a fun and safe night.
Your Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Grilling and Fire Pit Fire Safety
As the warm embrace of spring envelops us and summer lurks around the corner, it’s time to dust off those grills and gather around the fire pit for some outdoor fun. But amidst the excitement, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to ensure that these delightful activities don’t turn into disasters. That’s where SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito steps in with invaluable advice to keep your outdoor gatherings safe and enjoyable.
Understanding the RisksBefore we dive into safety measures, let’s shed some light on the potential risks associated with outdoor grilling and fire pits. According to a study conducted by the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 8,800 home fires involve grills, hibachis, or barbecues each year in the United States alone. Additionally, the Consumer Product Safety Commission highlights that fire pits contribute to thousands of injuries annually.
Safety First: Tips and TricksWhere to burn: Choose a safe and suitable location for your grill or fire pit. Keep them away from structures, overhanging branches, and combustible materials.
Proper Maintenance: Regularly inspect your grill and fire pit for any signs of wear and tear. Clean them thoroughly to prevent grease buildup and potential flare-ups.
Keep a Watchful Eye: Never leave your grill or fire pit unattended, especially when they’re in use. Assign a responsible adult to supervise the area at all times.
Mind the Children and Pets: Ensure that children and pets are kept at a safe distance from the grill and fire pit. Establish a designated play area away from the heat.
Invest in Quality Equipment: Go with high-quality grilling equipment and fire pits that meet safety standards. Remember, a small investment in safety now can prevent significant losses later.
Let’s Grill Safely Together!At SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito, we understand the importance of safety when it comes to outdoor grilling and fire pit gatherings. By following these expert tips, you can enjoy memorable moments with your loved ones without compromising on safety.
Remember, when it comes to outdoor fun, safety should always be the main ingredient!
Ready to elevate your outdoor experience? Visit SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito’s for more safety tips and fast restoration services.
Planning for Storms and Lowering Your Anxieties | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito to help you recover.
Storm clouds are rolling in, thunder is booming—and everyone in your house is getting nervous. In our warm climate that is prone to strong thunderstorms, remnants of hurricanes, flooding and tornadoes, this may be a normal scene in your home.
There is one thing that everyone in Texas understands, and that is that we have no control over the weather. We can, however, control how we respond to the weather—including how we control our fears.
When we prepare and get our families prepared, we can rest a little easier knowing that every storm will be approached with a little more calm.
Knowing What to Look ForKids love to look at clouds and find all the shapes they can, so why not use this as a jumping off point to teach a lesson in storm safety. Talk to your children about what storm clouds look like.
Make sure they understand they may be fast-moving, green, blue or black, and they may or may not come with thunder. Show them examples of funnel clouds or what it looks like when the clouds start to spin. Help them understand how clouds can be the first sign it is time to find a safe space.
With the number of tornadoes and other strong storms we experience, there is a good chance you can hear a siren from your house. When the closest warning siren is going to be tested, make a game with the kids. Have them listen for it and see who can be the fastest to get to a safe spot. Make sure they also know the sounds of your weather radio as well so that at any warning they can respond quickly.
Preparing for the EventIf you don’t already have one, a great next step in preparing your family for severe weather is creating a family weather emergency plan. This should include creating an emergency kit and finding a safe place to go during an event.
The lowest level of your home is the best place to ride out strong storms and thunderstorms, but if flooding is possible, you will need to identify a safe place on higher ground. Walk your kids to these locations and help them understand to move to those spots quickly during an emergency, day or night.
Spend time together creating an emergency kit as well. Let the kids pick out some snacks that won’t expire, and gift them with a flashlight of their own. Make sure you have plenty of batteries, water and first-aid supplies as well.
When tornadoes or hurricanes are in the area, there is a good chance that power can be knocked out long-term. Keep candles, matches and some non-electronic games in your emergency kit to help distract your children. Some comfort items like blankets and stuffed animals are always a good way to calm smaller children.
Don’t forget to include many of the same items, as well as some overnight supplies, in a bag you can grab and go in the event that you need to evacuate during a storm.
Keeping CalmFor many of us, storms can be a scary situation to deal with. Weather-related fears and anxieties can be particularly challenging for the kiddos. The more prepared you can be and the more lighthearted you can be about your preparation, the easier getting through an emergency will feel for everyone. Make your kids feel safe by letting them know that most homes only experience mild damage in severe weather.
Understanding the warning signs, what to do about them and the most common kinds of damage that result from severe weather is a great way to keep everyone calm during any event. Be prepared and ride out every storm confidently.
Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.
Water Leaks & the Smells They Bring Along | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
5/1/2024 (Permalink)
Trust SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.
A water leak in your home is never a pleasant thing to deal with, especially if you are away from home when it happens. Coming home after a long day at work or a weekend vacation and finding that the washing machines dumped water all over the floor or an open window left your wall soaked after a rain shower is something none of us want to deal with.
Most water leaks require much more than just a few towels or a mop, too. Water leaks can lead to extensive damage throughout your home, most of it in places you may not even see.
The faster you can get a leak professionally dealt with, the less damage your home will incur—which means the more time you can spend relaxing.
Addressing Water LeaksWhen a leak happens, it can move quickly throughout your home. Moisture will get into all the places you don’t want it to be, including behind your walls and under your floor. Water has a sneaky way of finding every nook and cranny around, leaving hard-to-reach places wet.
Grab some towels or a mop when you do discover a leak in your home, but take note of which way the water is moving and what permanent structures are around the area. Dry up everything visible as quickly as you can, and move anything that can be moved in order to remove as much moisture as possible. When your walls, cabinets, ceilings or floors get wet, that water won’t go away on its own. Instead, moisture can hang out for a long time due to the lack of airflow and tight space.
The longer moisture stays in these spots, the more damage will be done. Metal support beams can rust, wood can start to breakdown, and mold can begin spreading rapidly. In as little as 24 hours, an entire colony of mold can grow in places you might not even be able to see, leaving you with another disastrous situation to deal with.
Following Your NoseMold and mildew always come with a distinctive sign—an odor. After you have cleaned up a leak in your home, take note any time you smell something musty or earthy. Do your best to locate the source, but keep in mind that mold can hide out. Even if you don’t see any visible growth, it’s time to call in the professionals.
Our crew is highly trained in every part of water damage restoration, including finding mold growth. While we dry things out and replace damaged flooring or walls that have warped, we will also start remediating mold growth and all the smells that come along with it.
Not only will we secure the area where growth has started, but we will also start disinfecting and filtering the air. Throughout your home, we will seal and sanitize surfaces and ensure that there are no pesky mold or odor particles hanging around. Our restoration job isn’t complete until your house looks, feels and smells like home again. Whatever your leak recovery process needs, we’ve got it handled.
Don’t ignore signs of a water leak. Contact SERVPRO® for a full recovery.
Insurance Claims Made Easy After a Disaster | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
4/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is Here to Help® with your business' disaster recovery!
After a disaster, there will be a whirlwind of thoughts for you to sort through. It’s likely you will find yourself consumed with thoughts about the safety of your family and friends, all while you wonder what kind of damage has been done to your home and community.
With so much to handle all at once, the idea of filing an insurance claim is probably one thought that won’t come very quickly. You may not want to spend time thinking through how recovery is going to happen when you have so many other things to think about, but the faster you can get restoration started, the better.
Our team is ready to respond to your property around the clock when a disaster strikes. We will handle all the pieces of the puzzle you haven’t even thought about yet so you can get back to normal.
Start Fast, Document OftenWhen it comes to disasters, timing will always matter. The sooner you can get on the path to recovery, the less damage will start adding up. Make sure you are keeping your safety and the safety of your family as your first priority after a disaster, though. Stay out of floodwaters, steer clear of hot spots from a fire and avoid downed power poles.
Whether you are sheltering in place or you evacuated, don’t leave safety until officials have given an all-clear. Immediately after a disaster has passed through, check on your neighbors and loved ones and call for any emergency services that are needed. As soon as you know everyone is OK, call us at SERVPRO®. We will start putting together a team and the equipment needed to tackle your recovery from the moment you call us.
When you can safely navigate around your property, take as many photos as possible. When it comes to insurance claims, documentation is the name of the game. If you do need to repair something before our team gets there, make sure to take detailed notes on what you did and why you did it. The more information you can provide, the better.
Leave It to Our TeamUpon arrival at your property, our professional team will start securing your home in order to keep the elements out and prevent more damage. At the same time, we will start working directly with your insurance company. Our crew is not just trained in disaster repairs, but we are also highly trained in how to handle meeting insurance claim expectations.
We come certified in meeting insurance inspection standards, and we will put together more documentation to go along with your photos and notes. One of our goals is to repair much of your property so that you don’t have to replace it. Whatever we can do to keep your costs low and your insurance process simple, we will do it.
All you have to do is leave it to our team. Our professionals will get your life back on track and your home back to exactly the way it should be in no time. You can put every aspect of recovery into our hands—even ensuring your insurance claim process is smooth and fast.
When a disaster strikes, call us to make your recovery process—insurance claims and all—simple.
Flood Prevention: The Basics | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
4/1/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is ready to help in a moments notice after spring showers leak in to your home or business.
Keep it simple. Mastering the basics is the best way to get something done the correct way—which can be a helpful thing to remember the next time you have to help your children learn any kind of math.
Getting back to the basics can be a helpful way to protect your home from natural disasters, too. There might not be any way to fully control Mother Nature, but the more prepared we are for everything she can bring our way, the less damage we will end up with.
Flooding is one of the top natural disasters that affects homes all around the nation. That makes being prepared for potential water damage crucial in protecting our homes.
Know Your ZoneFlooding is such a big issue because it can happen in so many different ways, and not all of them come from nature. Internal, manmade disasters (like appliance failures) can be destructive, but they are often easier to control than external floods. With our community so close to the Gulf of Mexico, all of our homes are vulnerable to coastal flooding, storm surge and flash flooding.
One of the best steps you can take is getting to know where the area’s flood zones are. This can help you understand the exact threats your property faces and how much preparation you will need to do in order to be as safe as possible.
It is also a good idea to get to know exactly how wet your yard gets when it rains or water starts pushing inland. If you are in a low-lying area, adding drainage or increasing the length of your gutter downspouts in order to get as much water away from your house as possible.
Lots of trees in your yard can lead to blocked gutters and debris pileup on your roof. Gutter covers can be a helpful way to stay protected, but you will also want to inspect your roof at least twice a year and after big windstorms.
Prepare to PreventThe more you can get to know the area around your home, the easier protecting your home will be. There are a few other steps you can take as well. Spend some time caring for your yard as your first line of defense against rising waters.
Create gentle sloping in your yard to allow water to flow away from your house. If there is a spot in your yard that stays wet or consistently washes out, consider adding a rain garden with deep-rooted plants that will pull water down into the soil. If they are not there already, put your gutter downspouts underground. That will keep them safe from damage during a flood, and it will direct rain water off of your property.
Inside, maintain the seals on your windows and doors. Replace caulking and weather seals as they wear out. If you have them, close your hurricane shutters and make sure they are in good shape. Have your basement resealed when visible gaps or cracks appear, and add a sump pump if you don’t already have one.
When it comes to preparing for a flood, keep it simple. Basic maintenance inside and out can go a long way in protecting your home. And it will be much easier than trying to remember the rules of algebra again.
Do you have water damage in your home? Contact us at SERVPRO® for fast recovery.
What to Do About Sewage Leaks | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
3/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is always ready to respond to your call when biohazard incidents strike.
Sewage leaks are something that we all hope we never have to deal with. They may not be the most destructive disaster that could strike in our home or office, but they would likely be the hardest to deal with due to the sheer mess and accompanying smell.
This is actually a quite common occurrence, though, and sewage leaks can strike anywhere and at any time. While there may have been a few warning signs, you could still be caught off-guard. The good news is that the faster you respond, the quicker things will be back to normal.
What to Do FirstWhen wastewater can’t move smoothly through pipes, it will start backing up through your sinks, showers and just about anywhere else it can get to. Sewage leaks can also start if there is damage to your water line or other pipes in the system.
Regardless of how the situation got started, when you have sewage back up in your home or office the best thing you can do is stay away from the water. Water leaks are classed into three categories—white water, gray water and black water. White water and gray water typically stem from clean sources, but black water is considered toxic and hazardous. Sewage is always classed as black water, and it can contain viruses, bacteria and other harmful materials.
Shut the water off at source or to the entire building if you can safely do so, and open windows to start venting the area. If there are fans, turn those on as well to help get fumes moving. Block the area off so kids, pets or coworkers can’t accidentally get near the sewage leak.
Where SERVPRO® Comes InOur team is trained and certified to handle any kind of biohazard situation, including cleaning up a sewage leak quickly and efficiently. With 24⁄7 availability, we can start your recovery the moment you call us. While we gather your information, we will also start putting a team together with the right safety equipment to start your restoration the moment they arrive.
While you are waiting for our team to arrive, start taking some photos of the area and any damage done. This may not be the most exciting task, but the more images you can get, the easier it will be to process any insurance claims. It can also help us understand the source of the leak and what the total project is going to look like.
As soon as our team makes it to your property, we will start removing sewage and any standing water while we also work to ensure the source of the leak is corrected. Keep in mind that sewage is considered toxic, so our crew will be in full protective gear to keep themselves safe. It’s best to stay away as much as you can during the cleaning process.
Not only will we make sure that the cause of the leak is fixed, our crew will also start deep-cleaning and sanitizing the area. If there was physical damage done, we will repair that as well. We will work on your restoration until there are no lingering odors and everything looks exactly as it should be.
If sewage starts invading your space, do your best to stay away from it. Call us and let our team handle everything. We will get you back to normal fast.
Sewage leaks should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO, and we will take care of you.
Being Prepared for the Storms of Spring | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
3/1/2024 (Permalink)
Let SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito help you get from April showers to May flowers.
Spring in Texas comes with plenty of warm temperatures, heavy rains and even the possibility of a few severe storms.
Spring might be one of the best seasons, but as it stretches closer toward summer and the temperatures start to get hot, storms often get worse. Hurricane season starts, and Mother Nature starts getting riskier and riskier. The possibility of strong storms means it is incredibly important to be prepared for anything.
In order to be as safe as possible, you need to ensure that you can receive weather alerts quickly. Fortunately, there are some great ways to stay ahead of anything that comes our way.
The Power of the InternetThere is a good chance your cell phone is never very far from your hand, which is why it is one of the best places to receive weather alerts. There are Wireless Emergency Alerts that will come through automatically, but you can also choose from a wide variety of apps to get alerts from.
When you choose an app, stick with one that is from a nationally recognized organization. Local news stations and radio stations often have their own app that will not only keep you up to date with the weather, but other local news as well. Be sure to sign up for alerts from the county as well for the best localized info.
Don’t rely on alerts alone, though; make sure you keep an eye on the local news as well. That way you can stay ahead of anything headed your way and up to date on evacuation orders and shelter openings.
Non-Electronic OptionsOur phones, tablets and computers are great for keeping us connected; but they have batteries that will eventually run out. It is important to have a backup way to receive emergency alerts. Storms can quickly knock out power long-term, and you need to receive the most information possible in order to stay safe.
If you live close enough to town weather sirens, make sure you know what the sounds they make mean in order to respond appropriately. An NOAA weather radio is a portable tool that requires no power to give you consistent information. You will want to take it with you wherever you go, even after the first system has passed over. There could be more storms behind it.
Staying prepared and connected can go a long way in keeping you safe, but it may not prevent damage to your home during a storm. If your home is damaged, call us right away. We can start your recovery day or night and get you back to normal before you know it.
Serious storms can cause serious property damage. Call SERVPRO® 24⁄7 for immediate restoration assistance.
Get Business Going After a Disaster | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
2/15/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is here for your business every step of the way, from ERPs to disaster recovery.
Disasters can leave behind damage that leaves you feeling completely lost. Your home, your community and your business can all be affected, and recovery can feel like a far-off land you will never reach.
While getting your home put back together will almost always take top priority, for a small business owner getting work going again is just as important. With a plan and with our team at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito always available, you can get back to work fast.
<h3ahead-of-time">Prepare Ahead of Time
In order to recover quickly after a disaster, you need to have a plan. When you and your employees know what to do before, during and after a fire, storm or flood, you can keep work going with little interruption.
One of the most important parts of planning for a disaster is communication. Your emergency plans should be a part of regular training to ensure that everyone on your team knows every step of the process.
Every few months, walk with your employees through the building and take note of where the water shut-offs are. Make sure you have plenty of fire extinguishers as well, and train your staff how to use them.
Clearly label exit paths so that fast escapes can be made whenever it is needed. It may be helpful to assign some staff members particular tasks in order to secure your building ahead of a predicted disaster.
After a disaster has rolled through the area, your employees should know how they are expected to get back to work. If remote work is anticipated, make sure secure networks are ready and everyone has the appropriate equipment.
If you have an alternate location secured to use while your storefront is repaired, make sure your staff knows how and when they should report there. Communicate frequently with your team, and keep in mind that some networks may not work after a disaster. Plan to use multiple platforms in order to keep everyone informed.
<h3quickly">Recover Quickly
When you have a plan, you can get through a disaster with a little extra piece of mind knowing that your path to recovery is already paved. Put contacting SERVPRO® into your plan, and call us the moment it is safe to do so. We will head to your property day or night to start the restoration process.
As our professional team starts putting your physical location together, it’s important for you to start talking with your customers. Use multiple platforms to let everyone know projected reopening dates, how you will keep work going in the in between time and how the process is progressing. The more you can communicate with your community, the better.
It’s crucial to remain flexible throughout your recovery. Our team will work fast to dry things out, sanitize, rebuild or anything else you need, but you may need to adjust the scale and scope of your work while we do. Keep an open mind and remember this is temporary. You will be back to normal before you know it.
Be prepared for anything by creating and practicing a plan often. Maintain strong communication with your employees and your customers, and stay flexible while our professionals put everything back together. Things will be exactly as they should be in no time.
Has your business experienced a disaster, or do you want help building an emergency plan? Contact us to find everything you need.
When Damage Creates More Damage | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
2/1/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!
There are a lot of sayings about how bad luck often leads to more bad luck. Unfortunately, most of them hold pretty true—especially when you are dealing with a disaster.
A disaster, whether stemming from Mother Nature or a manmade accident, causes damage that will always lead to more damage. That is why having a total restoration team like SERVPRO® right around the corner matters.
The Impact of DisastersDisasters can take a toll on your home or community that you can’t even begin to measure. Even when a storm is headed your way and you have time to get ready for it, the weather can turn more severe and cause damage you weren’t expecting. Manmade issues can also be incredibly destructive, especially because they often occur completely out of the blue.
A single rainstorm can dump heavy amounts of water, which leads to flooding, which leads to mold growth on anything that gets wet. High winds can tear down trees, put your roof at risk or knock out power long-term. Fires in your home bring smoke, soot, water, structural damage and lingering odors.
Disasters certainly bring the old saying “when it rains, it pours” to life due to the consistently compounding damage that only gets worse over time.
The physical toll isn’t the only thing to consider, too. Disasters can take a real mental toll on everyone that lives through them. That is why fast and efficient recovery is incredibly important.
A Single Team, Total RestorationTiming is of the essence when a disaster strikes, and that is why our team is ready to take your call 24⁄7. The day or time will never matter—from the moment you call us we start your recovery process. As we gather information from you, we are also putting together a team to get to your property fast.
Our experts are well-trained and certified in a wide variety of disaster scenarios. Not only is our team trained and certified, we are also local. As your neighbors, we love this community and have experienced all the ups and downs that come with every disaster that has affected our area. We have helped many of you recover, cleaning up homes and offices all around town.
When the winds pick up and leave your roof a mess, we can get there quickly to tarp and cover it so further damage can’t set in. When a flood strikes either externally or internally, we will start removing water and working to dry out as much of your home and belongings as we can.
If part of your home cannot be repaired, we can tear it down and rebuild it. Our team wants to put your life back together, completely. Whatever it takes to do that, we’ve got it covered.
Being a total restoration company means that we will never leave a job unfinished. We stay by your side until you feel completely at home again—whether that means handling lingering odors after a fire or sealing parts of your home to prevent potential mold from returning.
SERVPRO is the total package. With a trained and certified staff, availability any time and any day, top-of-the-line equipment and locals that understand you, we can handle all the rain that pours into your life. Bright days are headed your way, and we will make sure you are ready to enjoy them.
Have you experienced a disaster and need restorations? Make one call to our office to start recovery fast.
Fire-Safe and Toasty Warm | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
1/16/2024 (Permalink)
Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!
Even in a warm Texas climate, we all still love when the temperatures take a dive and we can curl up under a blanket. Cold weather may not be common, but when it does show up, a crackling fire or nicely heated house can be pretty cozy.
House fires grow substantially in the winter, and most of the time they are due to preventable accidents caused by space heaters, fireplaces and other heating devices. The good news is with a few safety steps you can keep things fire-safe and toasty warm.
Addressing Your FireplaceThere is little that compares to the glow of a fire on a cold night. Fireplaces are peaceful, but they can also be quite dangerous when used improperly. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, clean the ash and other debris out after every use. Have your chimney inspected and professionally cleaned every year to remove creosote or other buildup.
Keep anything flammable away from your fireplace, which also means not hanging anything from your mantle. Dust around your fireplace weekly, and make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the room. For gas or electric fireplaces, keep an eye on the connections to watch for signs of aging.
Space Heater SafetyWith our mild climate, space heaters might be your favorite way to heat a room without having to mess with your thermostat. But space heaters are responsible for nearly 1,700 fires every year, most of them from misuse.
Always run your space heater on a flat, nonflammable surface. Make sure your heater has a three-foot radius of open space around it, and check the cord to make sure there is no fraying. Space heaters should always be plugged directly into the wall.
It can be tempting to pull the heater right up to your seat, but keep it clear of your couch and curtains. Take measures to protect your pets from the heater when it is running, and tell the kids to steer clear as well. Don’t leave a space heater running unattended, and make sure to turn it off before you head to bed as well.
Suggested Safety Features for Your Space HeaterIf your space heaters are more than five years old, it may be time for an upgrade. There is a huge variety of heaters on the market, but there are a few safety features you want to look for before making a purchase. Do your research to ensure whoever you buy from is certified and reliable.
Any space heater you use in your home should have automatic shutoff features. This should include a tip feature that makes the unit kick off when it is bumped or knocked over and a shutoff feature after the space heater has been running for some time.
Take a look at the cord on the space heater. It should be pretty heavy duty and at least six feet long. You can’t safely use an extension cord with a space heater, so make sure you are buying one with enough cord length to meet your needs and be plugged directly into the wall.
With a little fireplace care and space heater safety, you can make your home toasty and safe anytime winter decides to visit. If something does happen, with one call to our SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito we can get your home completely free of smoke, soot or any other damage.
A quick fire damage restoration is just a phone call away. Call SERVPRO® for immediate assistance.
Find the Moisture in Your Home | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
1/2/2024 (Permalink)
Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.
Water is one of those things that we really can’t live without access to. Think about how often water is running in your home. Between the washing machine, dishwasher or even just using the garden hose to water plants and clean the dog, having water on demand certainly makes our lives easier.
When water ends up in the wrong places, though, it can leave our home a total mess. While we may not be able to stop a natural disaster that brings heavy rains or floods, we can do a lot to protect our homes from other kinds of water damage. When you know how to find leaks fast, you can keep your home safe and dry.
Under Your SinksThe kitchen and the bathroom are two top locations that leaks like to hide out. Under the sink, there are often a number of water lines, and it can be hard to find leaks when they start small.
Even a small leak can do a lot of damage, seeping into cabinets, behind walls and even under the floor. Look under your sinks weekly for signs of a problem. Use your hands along all the water lines to feel for moisture, and make sure connection points are tight. Replace seals at the first sign of wear and tear to keep things working properly.
Beneath AppliancesLarge appliances are another location that leaks often start and can be hard to locate. Dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters and refrigerators certainly are convenient, but they are also susceptible to water leaks that can do a lot of damage in a little bit of time.
Pull your appliances away from the wall every few months in order to clean underneath and behind them. Look for mold growth, puddles or soft spots in the floor. Feel along any water lines you can reach, and replace anything that is beginning to age.
Behind Your Walls or FloorsOne of the things that makes even the smallest leak dangerous to your home is how fast water can move. Water can trickle down into the smallest of cracks and crevices, including behind your walls and under the floor.
Don’t ignore a new musty smell somewhere in your home, particularly near water-based appliances. A new squeaky floorboard could be another indicator that there is a bigger problem that needs investigating as well.
Around Your Windows and DoorsCondensation on your windows is a pretty common occurrence, especially when the temperatures swing back and forth in a day. It can be easy to ignore this, but condensation can actually seep in through cracks and cause damage to the structure of your home.
Check your windows and doors by running your hands around the frame to feel for moisture regularly. Make sure that caulking has not deteriorated and that there are no visible signs of cracking. The change of the seasons is a great time to check the seals all around your home.
If you do find that a leak has left behind damage, don’t let it make your head spin. With one call to SERVPRO®, your home will be back to normal fast. We can handle anything from a complete flood to structural repairs. It is our goal to get your life back on track.
Don’t ignore signs of water damage! Call SERVPRO for a quick restoration.
A Local Business Is Always the Best Choice | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
12/15/2023 (Permalink)
No job is too big or too small for our team of industry leading experts at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito!
Have you ever considered what things would be like if a disaster were to strike? It isn’t something any of us like to do, even when we are picturing one far from home. Considering our own towns or houses being damaged simply isn’t something we can wrap our minds around.
Preparations can go a long way in preventing some damage to your home, but even a home that is well prepared for a disaster may end up dealing with losses later. Something happening due to manmade error is even more challenging, as they often are completely unpredictable.
We may not love thinking about it, but it’s important to know that there is a way to put our lives back together fast, no matter what happens. That is why a local business will always be your best choice.
Making the Right ChoiceIf you do face a disaster that damages your home or even just your community, you might find yourself at a loss for how to respond. Questions will need to be answered quickly and decisions will have to be made, all while you try and understand what has happened and wade through your emotional response.
Moving quickly will always be the best way to prevent extreme losses and get things back on track. That makes picking the right restoration service incredibly important. You need a business that comes with the right equipment and a highly trained team that can handle your situation. You also need someone that is there the moment you need them, day or night.
SERVPRO® fits that description completely and has so much more to offer. Our business is locally owned and operated, which means we understand your situation better than anyone because we are your neighbors.
Living in the same community as you means that we, too, have felt the toll that disasters of any size can have. Our team understands how important this area is, and we aren’t just getting a job done when we tackle a restoration, we are putting our home back together.
A History of ExperienceA friendly face that is ready to take over after a disaster can be a huge blessing, but you also need to know that there will be enough professionals and equipment to get things put back together. SERVPRO is backed by a national brand and can rely on our nationwide business to ensure we have exactly the right amount of help.
SERVPRO got started in 1967 and has been growing in the restoration industry ever since. There are more than 2,000 offices all around the nation now, including our very own right here in Harlingen.
When you work with us, you get professionals who are trained and certified in all things disaster recovery. SERVPRO strives to be the complete package so you only have to make one phone call.
Our team can deal with anything your recovery requires, from tarping a roof to completely rebuilding a section of your house. SERVPRO’s professional team has years of experience, and we are continually learning in order to stay ahead of technological advances to better serve your needs. Our equipment is consistently updated as well, as are the techniques we use to put our community back together.
A history of experience and a crew that loves this community as much as you do makes working SERVPRO the easiest choice you can make. No matter what happens, we’ve got you covered.
Want to learn more about everything we can do for you? Contact us to be prepared for anything.
Don’t Let Water Take Over Your Business | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
12/1/2023 (Permalink)
Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito a call to get that resolved!
Have you ever stepped into the office for the day and suddenly been overwhelmed by a musty odor in the air? This is a pretty good indicator that there is some sort of leak in your building—and you could be headed for water damage.
That is certainly not something you want to deal with in your already busy schedule, but picture walking in and stepping directly into a puddle of standing water. Now you are dealing with a real nightmare situation!
Whether a natural disaster strikes and leaves your building wet or a plumbing failure floods the bathroom, the faster you are able to take action, the less damage you will incur. Learn what to do when you find yourself dealing with a flooded building so that you can get back to work quickly.
One Step at a TimeA flood is a lot to handle, even when it is from a natural source that was predicted. Give yourself some time to breath and break down your actions to a few simple steps that can get things headed in the right direction fast.
When you can quickly and calmly respond, you can prevent deep damage and potential mold growth.
1. Keep things safe. Safety should be your first priority any time a disaster strikes. Get yourself to a dry spot where you can better assess the situation, and call us at SERVPRO® right away. We will get as much information as we can over the phone while we organize a team to head to your property. While you wait for our professionals, safely take as many photos as you can.
2. Try and gain control. Once you have a better idea of what is happening and you know our team is on the way, do what you can to quickly gain control of the problem. Look for the source of the water and shut it off. If you can’t locate an exact source but have determined the water is coming from an internal source, cut the water to the building at the main valve.
3. Find ways to get things dry. Even when floodwaters originate from a clean source, they can become contaminated and dangerous quickly. The more you can stay out of the water, the better, but try to find ways to start the drying process. Open windows, increase the ventilation and remove any items you can that are in the path of the water.
Work With the ProsWhen our restoration crew gets there, they will begin removing water right away. While the drying process is taking place, we will complete an assessment of your needs and walk you through what your recovery will look like. We will also be in contact with your insurance agency in order to make the whole process as simple as possible.
As your recovery process progresses, you can start finding ways on how to get business going again. If our team deems it safe to do so, you may be able to use any undamaged parts of your building while we continue putting everything else back together.
While you take care of your team, our team will continue to take care of your building. It is our goal to restore rather than replace your items, and we will make sure you are able to have a say in every step of the recovery process.
Finding water in your building doesn’t have to completely derail your business. Move quickly, and call us as soon as you are able. We will get things back to normal as fast as possible.
Do you need repairs after a water disaster in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.
Damage to Your Home | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
If you discover damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito right away.
Owning a home comes with a lot of joy and a lot of risks. There are so many ways your home can be damaged, whether it is during a storm, because of a fire or due to just everyday aging. Even the neighbor who gets a little overzealous while playing ball with his kids can leave you with a broken window and one more thing to fix.
There may be risks to our homes on a daily basis, but we can’t spend all of our time worrying about them. If you are proactive about preparing for the ways in which your home might experience a disaster, even an unpredictable storm won’t do much harm.
The best way to prepare is to first understand what exactly could happen in different scenarios. Understanding the kinds of damage your home might face not only helps you stay ahead of them, but it also can give you reassurance of how quickly recovery can happen. SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito is right around the corner, ready to get you back on your feet after any disaster.
The Biggest RisksLife in Texas comes with plenty to enjoy and plenty to be prepared for. Being so close to the Gulf means that coastal flooding, hurricanes, tornadoes and strong thunderstorms are all possible. Our homes are also at risk because of the extreme heat we often see in the summer—and even the occasional wildfire.
While we may experience a multitude of risks in Harlingen, we need to be most prepared for the three most common kinds. Damage to the roof, water damage and fires are the top dangers to homes everywhere, including our corner of Texas.
There are a number of ways water may damage your home, including internal sources you might not often think about, like plumbing or appliance failures. In the same way, your roof is at risk in just about every storm that blows through, but also from a tree limb that suddenly comes loose on a bright sunny day. Damage from fires can also start from different sources, although most home fires originate from human error.
Compounding DamagesLiving through a disaster is a traumatic experience that can only feel even more overwhelming when you begin to see the extent of damage that has been done to your home. Damages are often compounded, too—a flood not only leaves everything wet, but it also allows for mold to rapidly start to take over.
When a fire strikes, your home will experience damage from the flames, smoke and soot. Soot damage can spread into rooms that were nowhere near the actual fire, and water damage can abound as well from the firefighting efforts.
No matter how your home was damaged, recovery can happen one step at a time. Our crew has training in a number of scenarios, which means that there isn’t a single part of your restoration we can’t handle. We have industry-leading equipment and techniques to deal with water, fire and wind damage, but we can also tackle mold, remodeling, construction and odor issues.
After water has damaged your home, our first step will be to get everything as dry as possible. We will also seal off your home and make sure everything is structurally sound. This might include replacing a roof beam or it could mean repairing your foundation. We will also make sure any mold that forms is remediated, and everything is well sealed so that it cannot return. Sanitizing and odor removal will be one of the finishing steps in order to make your home as good as new.
Fire damage will be handled in a similar manner by tackling the most burned places first and ensuring your home is sealed from the elements. We will take a look at your whole house and rid every room of smoke, soot or odors that may have spread to them. If there are issues from the water or chemicals that were used to put the fires out, we will address those as well, and we can even rebuild parts of your home when the damage is extreme.
SERVPRO works directly with your insurance company, and since we are locally owned and operated, we know the right people to call at every step of the process. You won’t have to coordinate multiple contractors, we’ve got that covered for you. It’s our goal to make you recovery quick and smooth so you can get back to life as normal.
Does your home need restoration and you don’t want to make more than one call? Contact us to get everything handled by one team.
Why Having an Emergency Plan Matters for Businesses | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
Are you prepared for disaster? SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is here for you when disaster strikes!
Over the last few years, natural disasters have been on the rise. When you take a look at the statistics, you can see that not only are the number of occurrences going up, but so is the intensity of these disasters. That means more extensive damage in more places.
Statistics only represent a possibility, though, and your business might not ever see a natural disaster that creates a business interruption. Even still, there is always a possibility of manmade disasters occurring and knocking your business off track.
You may not love thinking about all the things that could leave your business in a bad spot, but getting to know your risks is important. When you understand the challenges you might face, you can plan for them and take steps towards prevention.
The Importance of a PlanAs the possibility of natural disasters occurring gets higher and higher, making a plan for your business can help save lives and prevent losses. When you take the time to think through the threats you could face, you can stay prepared and take fast action even before a flood, storm or fire happens.
When a disaster strikes, your business will not only face potential physical damages, but it can also cause extreme financial challenges. With a plan, you can get back to work faster with a team that is not only safe, but that also knows exactly how to keep things going.
Many businesses that are forced to close as a result of a disaster never reopen. A plan can get your team back in action fast, which means you can keep your businesses intact and your finances protected even if you no longer have a physical location to work from.
An Emergency Ready PlanIf you are ready to create a plan but don’t know where to start, SERVPRO® has you covered. With our Emergency Ready Plan, you can create a personalized plan that meets your businesses needs. Our plans start before a disaster can strike and walk with you through the entire process.
In order to create your plan, our staff will come and take a total assessment of your business. We will work with you to form an action plan that keeps your business on the best path to safely avoiding losses. Our team will make sure you know what to do before, during and after a disaster.
Ahead of an event occurring, your plan will cover exactly what your staff should be doing. It might mean some of your employees are assigned to protecting paperwork, while others are taking care of the building. You won’t have to scramble in order to give out directions; with a plan, everyone will know what to do as soon as you say “go.”
Keeping a strong line of communication will be a crucial part of your plan at every stage of a disaster occurring. Your Emergency Ready Plan will lay out a chain of command so that your team knows exactly who to report to and who to expect directions from.
After a disaster, our highly trained crew will respond to your property in order to start restorations while your staff gets business going again. If remote work isn’t an option, your plan will include alternate physical locations in order to facilitate your needs.
Creating an Emergency Ready Plan with SERVPRO means you get a plan that is a complete package. Our customized plan can protect your business from financial losses and keep your staff safe. In addition to laying out every step to take, your plan comes with our 24⁄7 availability and the backing of a national brand. We make it our goal to get your business back to work fast.
Ready to create your Emergency Ready Plan for your business? Contact us for your free assessment to start the plan you need.
A Holly Safe Holiday | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito on the case!
The holiday season has finally arrived again. Whatever your favorite way to celebrate during this time of year is, it probably involves some good food. Whether you are the cook or Grandma doesn’t allow anyone else in the kitchen, it is important to cook with as much safety as possible.
The number of home fires goes up every year during the holidays, and a good number of them start in the kitchen. The good news is that you can keep Grandma and everyone else safe by taking a few proactive steps that will protect the whole house.
Reducing Flammable Materials in the KitchenBefore you ever turn you stove on, do a little bit of fire safety prep work to get your space ready. Many kitchen fires happen because a flammable item was left near a heat source.
Pay special attention to pot holders, towels and oven mitts. Wooden utensils, although a popular cooking tool, are also a risk when it comes to flames. A single pop of oil or a spark that leaps out could catch anything close by on fire.
Consider your clothing as well. Skip dressing up in the fun apron or goofy sweater until after the cooking is finished. Loose fabric, hanging strings or dangling decorations all present a fire risk you should avoid.
Keep a Close Eye on FoodWhen you cook, it is always a good rule to stay close by until everything has cooled down. Kitchen fires can start quickly in a number of ways. Whether you are cooking in the oven, on the stove or even in a countertop appliance, you will need to move fast to prevent a total disaster should something spark a flame.
If frying a turkey is part of your plans, you will need to take a few extra steps to stay safe. Don’t overfill your fryer, and take the time to read the safety guidelines from the manufacturer.
Put it on a level spot away from flammable materials, and make sure your turkey is totally thawed. A partially thawed turkey can make the oil pop and splatter, creating burn and fire risks.
Install Protective MeasuresFires may not be totally avoidable, but the more you do to stay safe the lower your risks will be. Make sure your home has enough protective equipment in place, including smoke detectors on every level of your home. Check them monthly, but make it a point to check the one in or near your kitchen before you head in to cook the holiday meal to ensure it is working properly.
Invest in a small fire extinguisher and store it close to the kitchen as well. Make sure a few family members understand how and when to use it. Get your pot lids out and keep them within arm’s reach to quickly smother grease fires.
Make your holiday season truly one to remember by avoiding disasters and keeping everyone safe. If you do suffer any size fire in your home, call us the moment the flames are out. We can respond quickly to handle your restoration needs so you can get back to celebrating.
House fires can happen in the blink of an eye. Contact us for a quick restoration day or night!
When Winter Storms Blow In | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
11/17/2023 (Permalink)
The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito has your back with these helpful tips.
Since they are so rare, a winter storm can really throw our community off. We are far more accustomed to the warmer-than-average winters in Texas, but heavy, cold rains and ice can’t be ruled out during the season.
Regardless of what our winter does, when we take time to prepare, we can keep our families safe and prevent damage to our homes. Get to know what to do when a winter storm rolls through so you can avoid a disaster.
Preparing Your HomeWhen the weather is predicted to turn cold and severe, you need to be prepared to stay indoors for a little while. Heavy, cold rains, wind and ice can create a very dangerous driving situation as the roads get wet and sloppy.
If you have hurricane supplies, get them out ahead of a winter storm. Make sure your weather radio is working well, and think about what you will need to stay safe if the electricity goes out. We know from years past that winter storms can leave us without power long-term sometimes, so making sure your emergency supplies are ready is crucial for staying safe.
Make sure you have plenty of batteries, basic first-aid supplies and flashlights. If you use a generator, make sure you have the proper fuel for it and that you are prepared to use it according to the manufacturer’s safety guidelines. Gather up blankets, warm clothing and sleeping bags in order to bundle up and stay warm.
Think about your evacuation plans as well. While your reason for leaving isn’t the same as during hurricane season, you should still talk with your family and friends about potential alternate places to stay in order to keep everyone warm.
Taking Care of Your Home After the StormOnce the storm has blown over and you can safely get outside, give your house a good assessment to check for potential damage. Even if you don’t notice any damage from the storm, there are some things you need to do in order to make sure it stays that way.
Take a look at your roof to check for wind and rain damage. If there is any ice sticking around, break it up and make sure it can flow through your gutter system well. Check for other debris in your gutters and across your roof as well—leaves and limbs are still a common problem throughout the winter.
Once you know your roof is good, walk around your property and take note of the rest of your gutter system. Make sure everything is connected and that the exits of the downspouts are all clear. Clear debris from external vents on your home as well in order to prevent carbon monoxide build up inside.
How We Can HelpIf you do find damage outside or water starts coming in during the storm, call us right away. We are available to respond quickly and get a team out in order to assess everything your home will need to be completely restored.
We make it our goal to restore your damage quickly so that you can get outside and enjoy everything that the winter season has to offer.
Our team is always ready for anything! Contact us at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito for a quick restoration after suffering damage from a winter storm.
Weather Emergencies at Work | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
If you were to ask someone what the most important part of running a business is, there is a good chance the answer will be staying prepared. Keeping a company going means you need to be able to weather any storm—and sometimes that can be literal storms.
Preparing your business and your employees to handle weather emergencies is crucial in keeping everyone safe and avoiding as much loss as possible. Create a plan to add one more layer of preparation to your team.
Know Your RiskIn order to create a plan that covers all of the risks your business might face, you need to first assess what those risks might be. Get to know the weather you see each season, and investigate previous disasters that have left your building or those near you damaged.
We enjoy pretty warm and mild weather in this part of Texas, but living so near water and in a tropical climate also means we have to contend with heavy rains, storms and occasional hurricanes. Spring and summer are the most weather heavy months, but flooding, wind damage and other storm-related damage is possible year-round.
Always check your business’ location on flood maps so that you can consider every possible situation as you create your emergency plans. Check local weather every day, and keep up with long-term forecasts in order to prepare as early as possible.
Make a Plan to CommunicateOnce you better understand the risk you may face while at work, create a communication plan that can keep everyone on the same page as you put emergency protocols in place. Create multiple avenues to keep your team connected at all times.
Your team should have two ways to receive weather alerts, including one that does not involve electricity in the event the power goes out. Messages should be sent more that one way as well so that everyone knows when it is time to gather supplies and when it is time to evacuate.
Plan Your EvacuationDuring some emergency events, evacuating your building will be the best way to keep your team safe. Map out safe routes to exit from throughout your building, and ensure doors are clearly labeled. Practice your evacuation plan with your crew regularly.
When an evacuation isn’t the safest way to weather a storm, your employees need a safe space to shelter in. Choose a location on the lowest level of your building with no windows, and keep a store of supplies nearby. Visit this location when you practice your emergency plan, and ensure it is also clearly labeled.
As you enact your emergency plan, it is crucial to keep your team calm. Panic can make disasters worse, and whether you are staying or going, your response needs to be handled quickly and safely. Practice often and clearly communicate in order to keep anxiety levels as low as possible. Preparation is key for a successful business, so prepare now for storms and avoid disaster later!
Don’t let extreme weather take control! If storms strike your business, SERVPRO® can help you restore your losses.
Storm-Proofing From the Outside | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito has your back when you experience flood and water damage.
There are so many potential risks to your home from weather. Wind, hail, heavy rain, hurricanes and flooding all pose different threats that could cause complete chaos in your life. While the extremes will change seasonally and vary according to where you live, the threat is always present and something you should be prepared for.
Taking care of your home can feel pretty overwhelming just with regular maintenance. When you add in getting ready for severe storms and the endless amount of threats you might face, it can all be pretty daunting to think about.
Texas weather is always a mixed bag, with longer seasons of warmth than a lot of regions bringing the possibility of severe thunderstorms, heavy rains and even occasional tornadoes year-round. In the spring and summer, we also have to be prepared for the possibility of hurricanes.
In order to avoid damage, the best place to start your prep work is outside. Spend some time caring for the exterior of your home so that you can stay safe and cozy through every storm.
Seasonal PrepsWhile it might feel like a lot, protecting your home from severe weather doesn’t have to become a full-time job. Actually, there are a lot of ways you can incorporate some preparation steps into your regular routines in order to ensure you are always ready.
Wind and heavy rains are a force of nature pretty much everyone everywhere will have to contend with year-round. Regularly clean out your gutters and trim trees near your home to prevent flying debris that could smash windows and puddles of water that could work their way into your foundation. Keep outdoor furniture tied down or have a place to stash it quickly when things are getting rough. Get the kids involved and play “who can pick up the most sticks” to keep the yard clean.
At least once a week, walk the exterior of your home and look for signs of aging. Take note of gaps in bricks or siding and snap pictures of rotting wood so you can replace it. Make sure windows and doors are well-sealed, and get to be good buddies with your roof. Give your roof a complete inspection at least four times a year, looking for missing or loose shingles, spacing around any chimney or other piping or any other issues you should correct.
Home UpgradesKeeping your home safe doesn’t have to cost you anything, but there are a few home upgrades you might consider to create the safest home possible.
If you don’t already have them, consider adding storm shutters to your windows. These are a great way to get your home hurricane-ready in a hurry. Check on the wind rating for your windows as well, and consider updating them to thicker materials. Gutter guards on your roofline gutters can be a great way to prevent buildup and keep water flowing, especially when the driving rains of a hurricane blow in.
Make sure your outbuildings have proper structural reinforcements to withstand the abuse of sustained winds. Modular homes should also have additional tie-downs in order to stay in place during severe weather.
Get to know the different kinds of warnings that come along with our weather, and always have two ways to receive alerts. Make sure the whole family knows where the safest part of your home is and where your emergency supplies are stored. If you do end up with damage after bad weather, call SERVPRO®. We are available 24⁄7 to get your life back in order fast.
Was your home damaged in a storm? Call us at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito to start restoration, 24⁄7.
Cooking the Burgers and Staying Fire-Safe | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito to get your space back in shape.
Summer has finally rolled around again, and it is time to get outdoors and spend your days with the ones you love the most. Texas summers might get hot, but it is also the best time to break out the grill and cook endless amounts of burgers.
Did you know that grills, when used improperly, are one of the leading causes of house fires in the summer? We may all love cooking over an open flame, but it can turn dangerous in a matter of seconds. SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito wants to ensure that you are able to enjoy all the grilling you heart desires—without the worry of fire.
The SetupAs you dust the winter grime off of your grill, think about where you are going to place it. Grills should be in an area that is open and clear of overhangs and combustible materials. Harlingen weather can get rainy over the summer, but you still shouldn’t move the grill to the garage. The heat and flames can quickly toast and damage anything above them.
When you find a spot that is open, make sure it is also at least 10 feet from any structures. This 10-foot barrier should also be a kid- and pet-free zone, so make sure everyone in the family understands to keep back while you are cooking.
Charcoal grills should be cleaned every time they are used. Ash and any other buildup should be removed, and the body of the grill needs to be inspected for signs of wear and tear. Spend time inspecting your propane grill as well. Make sure connections are tight and look for holes in the gas line.
Manning the FlamesEven after you have inspected everything on the grill, take a look at your supplies before firing anything up. Make sure you have a squirt bottle handy to extinguish any flames that grow too tall, and put a garden hose or fire extinguisher somewhere you can quickly access it if things do get out of control.
While you certainly deserve some applause for your hard work, let someone else take the food once it is cooked while you shut everything down. Turn off the gas and any burners you might have been using. If charcoal is your primary source of fuel, close any vents in order to cut the oxygen supply and start the cooling process.
Remove ashes as quickly as you can safely do so, disposing of them in a metal can. These can easily catch flame again, so it’s best to remove them from the source of heat. Check your grill before you call it a day and ensure it has properly cooled down.
San Benito brings some beautiful summer weather. You deserve to enjoy every moment of it without fear of a disaster striking. Take the time to grill safely, and keep SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito’s number in your contact list. We can respond 24⁄7 when flames do get out of hand to get your home put back together quickly.
Don’t let fire damage linger in your home. Call us at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito for a fast restoration.
How to Respond to Water Damage | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito right away.
Isn’t water just an incredible thing? Its power is often unmatched, even when we try to control it. Water can pump through the pipes in our house and start and stop with the wave of a hand, or it can be raw and natural and a force to be reckoned with like on the shoreline of a sandy beach.
We can’t live without water, and it plays so many critical roles in our day. But when water starts sneaking into places it doesn’t belong, it can leave our homes turned upside down. Heavy rains and storm surges from hurricanes have left some of our homes flooded over the years, as Texas is certainly no stranger to all kinds of water damage. Whether from a leaky pipe or a natural disaster, water can create utter chaos.
You can spend a lot of time preparing and protecting your home from flooding, but sometimes there is nothing you can do to stop water from entering into places it shouldn’t be. That’s why having water restoration experts in your backyard is invaluable.
The First StepsIf the unfortunate happens and your home experiences a water disaster, a fast response is your best bet for mitigating damages. Water moves quick and it can hide out even quicker, so finding the source of the water and doing what you can to control it is crucial.
After you find where the water is coming from, you need to try and stop the flow. If the flood is from a natural disaster, that might mean just waiting it out in a safe space, but an internal leak should be turned off. Learn your home well, including where all of your water shut-off valves so you can move quickly.
You should also know how to quickly shut off electricity to the flooded area. Never step into a puddle that could contain live electricity. Turn off the electricity at the source before tackling the water.
Once you can safely do so, call SERVPRO®. We have 24⁄7 availability, so it will never matter what time of day disaster hits your home. The faster you can call us, the faster we can start your recovery process and slow down the progression of damage.
How We Dry Your HomeAfter we have taken your call, we start your restoration right away by taking as much information as possible over the phone. At this point, take photos of the water and anything that is damaged. We will work directly with your insurance company to create a smooth process, and documentation will be very helpful.
As we gather your information, we will begin dispatching a team of our professionals to your home with all the industry-leading equipment needed to start drying things right away. Removing standing water and drying out soft materials will be the first priority. We make it our goal to restore as much of your property as possible so that you are not replacing your belongings. We stick with the process until your items are completely dry, sanitary and odor-free.
Our team is trained and equipped to handle every aspect that comes along with water damage restoration, including any construction needed. If an area of your home is destroyed beyond repair, we’ll tear it down and rebuild it so that your home is truly your home.
Anytime something happens that leaves your home with more than an inch of water, you need to call in our professionals. Different kinds of flooding require different kinds of responses, and our team can safely and sanitarily handle every single one of them. With your locally owned and independently operated SERVPRO in your very own neighborhood, you can sit back and enjoy the incredible source that water is without worry.
Do you have water damage in your home? Call us for fast and complete restoration.
How to Handle Storm Damage | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito to restore your space in no time!
Storms can be incredibly powerful, and even when you know they are coming, they can still surprise you. A thunderstorm can move into the area fast and leave behind destruction that makes your head spin.
Living in Texas has certainly taught us this, particularly in the warm months when tropical storms, hurricanes and strong thunderstorms dominate the news. Our weather can quickly swing from dry to wet, which leaves us vulnerable to flooding as well.
We know how incredibly important being prepared before a storm is, but it is also important to know what to do after a storm has moved out and left behind damage. When a storm leaves destruction in its wake, take quick action to make a fast recovery.
Immediately After the StormStaying vigilant after the initial threat has passed is important in order to continue protecting your family. Lighting may be lingering, or the rain may pick back up as another round of storms pushes towards you. Keep a weather alert device close at hand, and make sure you can get back to a safe shelter quickly.
Once things have quieted down, begin checking on your family members. If you don’t have cell service, text messaging may still work. When you are planning before a storm, make sure your family knows how you plan to communicate.
If you can safely exit your shelter, check on those around you. Don’t go into damaged buildings, but instead look for places you may be able to access anyone who needs help. As safely as you can, clear the street or other roadways so that emergency personnel can reach you.
Start taking pictures, and call us at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito. With our 24⁄7 availability, we are ready to take your call and start your recovery.
As More Time PassesAs you are able to further digest the shock of a severe storm hitting, the scope of work that awaits you to recover will become clear. Make sure you still remain cautious of both the area around you and the weather. Always wear the proper shoes and other safety equipment, avoid nails and boards, and keep a weather radio handy.
One of the first priorities our crew will take on when they reach your property is securing your home so that no further damages can set in. This might mean tarping your roof or sealing off windows, or it could mean removing standing water and starting the drying process on anything that got wet. Depending on how hard your home was hit, you may want to consider finding a safe place to stay while restoration continues.
SERVPRO® will work with your insurance company directly so that the claim process is as smooth as the rest of your recovery. While we are putting your life back together, it’s crucial to try and stay as calm as possible. Seeing your home damaged in a storm can be devastating. With our team working on your property around the clock, we will have you back home in no time.
If a storm leaves your home damaged, contact us for fast recovery. We’re here 24⁄7 when you need us.
When Heavy Rains Strike... | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito on the case!
Isn’t rain a wonderful thing? On a hot summer day, it’s the perfect way to cool down the earth, making everything sweet-smelling and cozy. Rain is a wonderful thing, until there is so much of it that there is no longer anything wonderful about it.
Heavy rain can create flash flooding and leave our gutters overflowing, making our homes vulnerable to leaks. SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito wants to help you come out of every heavy rain storm dry and damage-free.
Hazards of Intense RainTexas weather comes with a lot of ups and downs, but we all know our hot and humid spring and summer mean strong thunderstorms, heavy rains, tornadoes and tropical weather are all possible.
Flash floods and coastal flooding are also a common issue we deal with in Harlingen and the surrounding areas. When a storm blows through with intense rain, it often leaves roadways covered and can sweep away anything that isn’t tightly secured down.
Flooding in particular can be very unpredictable, which is why it is crucial to be prepared in advance of a storm. Make sure you always have two ways to receive weather alerts and keep up with the local news when the weather is predicted to be wet.
Staying SafeWhen it comes to getting prepared for a storm, safety should always be your first priority. If you are on the road, get to a safe indoor location quickly and never drive through floodwaters. At home, bring inside patio furniture and any other objects that could be swept away in a flash flood, and park your car in a garage or on high ground.
Inside your home, spend time moving anything precious or irreplaceable to a higher location. Always keep important paperwork in a watertight container, but move it when flooding threatens. If water starts coming in while you are at home, find a safe place to wait it out. Do your best to stay dry, especially while the water is still flowing. Turn the electricity off to the flooded area or your whole home if you are able before stepping into any water.
Future Prevention StrategiesThe faster you are able to call us, the better. We will start drying your home the moment we arrive, and as we work through your restoration process, we can also help identify ways to better protect your home from the next flood.
Starting outside of your home is ideal since the goal is to keep water out in the first place. Talk with a landscaping professional about increasing the grading and organic materials in your yard. This can keep water rolling away from your home and help prevent puddles that might eventually seep in.
Another item you might consider is a sump pump. This can be installed in your basement or crawl space and will pump water away from the foundation of your home. The correct size sump pump can go a long way in preventing major flooding when heavy rains come through.
Mother Nature may be unpredictable, but the more prepared you are, the better your home will fare in every situation. Keep our number in your emergency contacts so that you can call us any time a disaster strikes. Knowing you have a team of professionals right around the corner that can dry, sanitize and prevent mold growth after a flood can help you sleep easier at night.
We are here for all of your water disasters. Contact us day or night for a quick recovery.
Safety When You Have Fire Outside | SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.
The weather may still be pretty stifling hot most days, but you might have started to notice a cool breeze in the air and some lower temps at night. Fall is almost here, and while our weather only gets a little cooler, the break from the humidity and the more tolerable nights, combined with pumpkin everything, still make fall a great time of year.
Fall is also when a lot of us gather up our kiddos and head outside to roast marshmallows and share sweet memories around a campfire. While you are overindulging on sticky sugar, make sure you are also practicing fire safety to keep your property protected.
At SERVPRO®, it is our goal not just to restore your home fast when disaster strikes, but to also help you stay as safe as possible and avoid damage whenever you are able.
Tips for Starting the FireWhen you head outside to start a fire for the family, keep a few of these things you should do in mind:
Do find the safest spot possible to either place your fire pit or start your campfire. Choose a space that is free of overhangs, loose limbs and other debris as well as plenty far away from any structures.
Do keep water for emergency use nearby. A bucket full of water or a garden hose you can quickly turn on can stop flames that are headed in the wrong direction before a problem really starts. Sand and dirt can also snuff out flames and can also be helpful for putting out embers.
Do take a look at what the weather is doing the day you intend to have a fire. Check the forecast and keep an eye on the wind. Even a fire pit that has a screen is not safe to use when winds are high. Take a look at any potential burn bans for the area before lighting your fire, and be sure to follow any regulations in place.
Tips for While the Fire Is HotOnce your fire is going, keep in mind a few things not to do:
Don’t use anything to start or keep your fire going other than approved firewood. Lighter fluid and gas can be extremely dangerous on an open flame, and tossing in trash or other items can result in higher and hotter flames than you can handle.
Don’t let anyone play around the fire. Make sure kids don’t run or walk near the flames, and keep any yard games or balls a safe distance away as well.
Don’t make a bigger fire than your fire pit can handle. It can be tempting to build the fire big from the start so that you have to tend to it less, but it only takes a single flame getting away from you to start an entire backyard fire.
Don’t leave your fire unattended. Even when you are done for the night and the flames are mostly out, you need to add water to the remaining wood and embers. Red hot embers can catch back on fire even hours later.
Wildfire PreventionYou should be fire-aware because the majority of wildfires are started by humans. If you are going to have a flame outside, do everything in your power to protect your home and your environment. Keep it small, use the right materials, and never walk away.
SERVPRO is always here. If your property is damaged by fire, smoke or soot, you can call us day or night and start your recovery fast. We will restore your property completely so you can get back to all things pumpkin.
Fire can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Contact us day or night for immediate assistance.
Not-So-Scary Fire Safety for the Whole Family | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
6/14/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.
There is nothing more rewarding than raising children, and perhaps nothing quite so hard either. You have so many responsibilities in your day-to-day, including fostering their creativity and sparking their curiosity. There are so many things to teach them, but some of the realities they have to be prepared for can be pretty scary.
Learning how to stay safe at home from all disasters is crucial, but fire safety can be a frightening concept to try and help your children grasp. If a fire happens, it will be scary, no matter how old you are.
If you introduce safety measures early and review them often, you can help ensure that your child responds appropriately in the event of an emergency.
Explain the Dangers of FireKids learn best in a comfortable atmosphere where they can experience concepts more hands-on, especially when they can see cause and effect. Start fire safety education by explaining to your children how fires start, and walk them to some of the areas in your home with the greatest risk. Let them touch the stove while it is turned off, and look at the fire pit in the yard. Make sure they understand the seriousness of these tools and how to stay safe.
If you keep matches or lighters in your home, they should be out of reach of young children—and older children should be taught how to use them safely.
Make sure everyone in your home knows that if a match is found in the wrong place it should be properly disposed of. Your entire home can be engulfed in flames from a single, smoldering match.
Familiarize Them With AuthorityA firefighter in full gear can be an alarming site for little ones, so take the time to get them comfortable around authority figures. Explain to them who would respond in an emergency and show them what they will look like. Take them by the local police station or fire station so they can experience these heroes and their equipment in person.
Start practicing with your children how they should respond in a fire by turning on your smoke alarm and having them crawl down a hallway while calling out their name. Turn it into a competition to see who can get down the hall fastest. Pretend to be a firefighter and play a modified game of hide and seek so your children can understand that the main goal of an emergency responder is to get them to safety.
Make a Game Plan TogetherIf you don’t already have one, sit down with your family and create an exit plan. Get the art supplies out and let the kids create their own maps of your home.
Time the kids exiting each room to determine the fastest path. Make creating your plan a fun experience and there is a better chance your kids will remember exactly what to do.
Talk about using windows as a last resort exit only, and make sure your children understand the danger involved in this. Windows are not something you want your children playing with, but you do want to practice how to unlock and climb out in the event of an emergency.
As part of your escape plan, create a meeting place far enough away from danger that everyone can easily get to. Play tag with the kids and make this home base so they can get comfortable with it. Teach your kids how to call 911, and help them memorize basic facts about themselves, their parents and their location. Everything you can do now will mean a better outcome later.
Fires can cause widespread damage. Call us for a thorough and efficient restoration.
Prepare Your Home for Extreme Winds | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
6/9/2023 (Permalink)
If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito your first call.
The wind is one of those things that we all know exists, even though we can’t touch or control it. A cool breeze on a hot day can feel like a sweet gift, cooling you to the core and helping you catch your breath. Strong winds, however, can quickly become a nightmare.
Strong winds are almost always associated with severe weather, but gusts of winds can pick up and cause damage even when the skies are blue. Strong winds can be devastating, leaving your life feeling like a mess.
The more you get to know about wind and what it can do, the better prepared you can be for those times when things get rough.
The Different Kinds of WindMost of the time when damaging winds are reported, it is in conjunction with thunderstorms. More wind damage is reported nationwide from thunderstorms than tornadoes, making these storms something we should always pay attention to.
There are quite a few different threats that can come along with thunderstorms, but typical wind gusts can reach close to 60 miles per hour. When the wind gets that strong, loose debris will be thrown around yards quickly.
Thunderstorms are common in Harlingen, and they often become severe and include strong winds. Our location in Texas also means we can be vulnerable to tropical storm strength winds and even hurricane strength winds. Damaging wind is something we all need to be prepared for.
One particularly damaging kind of wind is called “straight-line wind.” These winds refer to any kind of strong wind that is not associated with rotation. Straight-line winds can reach up to 100 miles per hour, and can reach far beyond the center of a storm, which means damages can be seen in areas that didn’t see any rain.
Tornadoes also come with a variety of severe threats, including several different kinds of damaging winds.
Straight-line winds, downdrafts, and both micro- and macro-bursts are common kinds of winds that come along with a tornado. These kinds of winds can take out a forest of trees in an instant, and leave a path of destruction everywhere they go.
Wind Damage and PreventionThe most common kind of damage that results from strong winds include downed trees, projectile debris and power-line damage. Even a non-permanent structure that is anchored down can be blown over when winds reach 80 miles per hour.
A great first step to protecting your home and your family is getting to know the different weather alerts associated with high winds. Take the time to secure loose objects outside of your home as well, including patio furniture, trash cans and gardening supplies, in order to prevent as much debris damage as possible.
Trim trees in your yard regularly, and for any large trees, consider professional maintenance every five to 10 years in order to lower the risk of downed trees. Keep your yard clear of small objects like tree limbs or anything else that could take flight when wind gets strong.
Make sure you have a safe space in your home where you can shelter when strong wind warnings are issued. You may also want to close your hurricane shutters if you have them on your windows, or consider having them installed if you don’t.
After a storm has moved through and it is safe to head outside, walk your property and look for damage. Call SERVPRO right away if you spot any, and tackle roof or gutter issues as quickly as you can safely do to prevent water damage.
Has your home been damaged by wind? Call us and get things cleaned up fast.
Lurking Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
5/9/2023 (Permalink)
Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito to find the source.
Water is a powerful substance. It’s crucial for our life, but it can also do a lot of damage when it ends up in the wrong places. Water can be sneaky, too, hiding out in places you never look while the damages just get worse.
The good news is you can get to know some of the most common areas where water could be lurking so that you can take quick action to prevent extensive problems. When you regularly check some of the top locations, you can avoid mold growth and structural damages that often result when water is left to its own devices.
The roof. Keeping a close eye on your roof is crucial in preventing water damage that can run throughout your entire house, especially with all the small places water can sneak into.
The weather in our part of Texas is often warm, but it can also be severe frequently. Pick a mild day and get on your roof to inspect it, and then walk your property to look for damage after a strong storm moves out. Fix problems fast to avoid leaks and excess moisture.
Even if you can’t get on your roof, check your attic frequently. This is a prime spot for mold growth. Replace wet insulation and repair drips quickly to prevent its spread.
The bathroom. It shouldn’t come as a big surprise that a room where water is used constantly has a high risk of water damage. However, it can be hard to find actual problems because of the amount of water regularly used in the bathroom.
Get into the habit of checking under the sink, around the toilet and up against the tub weekly. Check for standing puddles, dripping sounds or persistent moisture. Your bathroom should dry out completely everyday, so if excess moisture is hanging around or your drains are running slowly, dig a little deeper as these are both indicators of bigger issues.
Appliances. As you build the habit of checking your bathroom fixtures, add checking under sinks and around large appliances at the same time. Your kitchen and laundry room can hide water damage under appliances that could persist long-term and result in extensive damages.
Pull out your refrigerator, dishwasher and washing machine at least once a year and look for signs of mold or standing water. Clean around the base of these machines and feel for soft spots or drops of water. When your appliances are in use, listen for slow-running water and dripping. Watch for water in the wrong places as a sign of problems.
Replace your appliances every 10 years or so to avoid problems before they ever start.
If you do find problems or even suspect an issue, call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito. We will respond to your home quickly with the best tools and expertise in the industry so you get back to life as normal.
Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!
Restoration From a Trusted, Highly Trained Team | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
5/4/2023 (Permalink)
Is your home or business in need of restoration? SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is ready to help you recover around the clock.
Making any decision is hard, but when it comes to making decisions for your home, there is a lot to consider. While minor decisions like appliance color may not feel challenging, making a major decision like who to call after a disaster is a big deal.
Imagine your home is damaged in a fire, or your basement takes on water during a storm. You know you need to act fast, but you don’t want to choose a company that comes without certifications and has very little experience.
When you choose SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito, you are getting a trusted team with up-to-date certification and all the latest tools and techniques to correct any issue at your home. Working with SERVPRO means working with a crew you can trust completely.
We Adhere to Industry Trainings
At every SERVPRO, we follow strict standards for the restoration industry called IICRC standards. That means that our professional team is trained on the latest and greatest when it comes to guidelines for cleaning and restoration. We adhere to these guidelines in everything that we do, including:
Along with ensuring our jobs and staff meet these standards, we offer our employees the chance to continue their education through our Employee Certification Training. This includes self-paced learning opportunities that lets our staff train on their own time.
We Never Stop Learning
While training starts for our team as soon as they are hired, once the onboarding process is complete, everyone has the opportunity to never stop learning. With continued education courses and e-learning options, we set our employees up for success while ensuring they are always on top of the latest skills to complete your project.
Our focus isn’t only on the education of our staff though, we also strive to ensure we have the latest equipment available. SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is locally owned and operated, and as members of your community, we want to ensure that any family affected by disaster can fully recover.
Staying ahead of the latest information also ensure that we can continually adjust our processes to meet the needs of each of you. Technology in our industry changes rapidly, and it is one of our goals to change with it in order to offer the best possible practices for every job. We work hard to have the best materials, knowledge and tools to get your life back to normal.
Why This Matters for You
There are numerous benefits to having trained and certified professionals right around the corner. We can start on your restoration day or night, and we will walk with you through every step of the process and ensure you know what our every move is. We will stay by your side until you are completely happy.
If you choose to work with a team that is not certified or does not have the knowledge to handle every aspect of a job, you are often left with just as much mess as you began with. When you choose SERVPRO, you will get your home back to normal faster than you could even imagine.
When you need help recovering from a disaster, SERVPRO is here for you. Get in touch 24/7 to start your disaster recovery.
Keep Business Going When You Are Prepared for Commercial Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
10/20/2022 (Permalink)
Water damage can bring absolute chaos to your commercial building. When water intrudes, it doesn’t really matter where it comes from, the disaster could knock your business off track.
Internal sources of flooding are a common source of water damage in buildings and may involve a burst pipe, sprinkler system failure or a leak in the roof. Water intrusion can equal losses to your inventory, soaked floors and shuttered parts of your building.
External sources of flooding are also a severe risk that can damage your property. In this part of Texas, everyone is in a flood zone. Flooding rains and levee failures are some of our top risks, but wildfire burn scars also pose a threat for flash flooding.
Due to our high risk, it is crucial to prepare our businesses before a disaster can strike. Where the water comes from doesn’t matter when you have put mitigation efforts into place.
Know Your Building’s LayoutOne of the best preparation steps you can take is getting to know your building well. Become familiar with the layout of your business and locate water shutoff valves so that you can take quick action if a pipe failure or leak happens. You should know how to turn off the main water valve as well as the fire sprinkler system valve.
Inform your employees on where these valves are and how to shut them off, and designate several people to take responsibility for this task in your emergency plans. Stopping the source of a leak can prevent extensive damages and make a big difference in your repair bill.
Know the Types of Water InvolvedWhen your business has a flooding emergency, it is essential to know what kind of water has caused the flood in order to respond appropriately and safely.
White water. Plumbing failures result in flooding that is not considered contaminated or dangerous. These kinds of floods are safe to manage by yourself when they are not large events.
Gray water. Gray water flooding happens when a sink drain or toilet overflows. This kind of water is contaminated, but is not considered hazardous.
Black water. When a sewer backs up into your building or flooding is created during a storm, it is considered black water. This kind of flooding is dangerous and potentially toxic and cleanup should be handled by a professional.
Take Action QuicklyIf your building does take on floodwaters of any kind, the quicker you respond, the more losses you can mitigate. Find the source of the water intrusion and shut off any water valves that may be involved.
Open windows and doors surrounding the affected area to increase air flow and promote drying, and alert everyone in the building.
Once you are able, document the damage. Take pictures and make notes that can help with your insurance claim. You may also use these to consider ways that you could add additional reinforcements to your building and prevent another event from occurring.
Remember to Be PatientWater damage that is visible is probably just a partial view of the total damage. Start checking your building for signs of hidden damage by looking for walls that have mold and floors that have buckled. These are red flags of deeper issues that should be handled fast.
If your building is damaged by water damage, call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito as soon as you are able. Our experienced professional staff is available 24⁄7 with the training and equipment to get your restoration started quickly.
The drying process can be lengthy depending on how big the flood was, so remember to use some patience as your space is cleaned and sanitized. Our team will be with you through each step of the process so that your business is up and running again quickly.
When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Reach out 24⁄7 to get started!
24 hour Emergency Water Damage Service
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
Water Flooding
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (956) 277-0645
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
- Your name and contact information
- Your insurance information (if applicable)
- The street address of the water-damaged home or business
- When did the flooding or water damage occur?
- What caused the water damage (if known)?
- Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
How Long is Too Long?
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
When dealing with water damage time is key! The thing that most people think is if I can’t see the water then it’s not doing damage to my property, and that is completely wrong. It’s the hidden water that does the most damage. As soon as a water damage occurs things in your structure start to get ruined. If you have any pets and they made accidents on your carpet, and you thought they you cleaned it up properly, well the smell gets trapped in the pad underneath the carpet and once water contacts the carpet the hidden odors become released. Also, most of your electrical appliances can get ruined, paper items tarnished, and certain furniture can stain the carpets. These problems occur in minutes after the water damage occurs. Some people think I dried up all the water that I can, and I don’t see any visible water so there is no more damage occurring, well that is also false, water migrates, especially in porous materials because the pores in the substance absorb water fast. Items that are porous are things such as drywall, concrete, and most of the studs. So when a water damage happens to you please call us at (956)277-0645 our phones lines are always open and we always have a team ready to help you in your time of need!
When Storms or Floods Hit the Rio Grande Valley, SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito is Ready
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quickly with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit the Rio Grande Valley, 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 country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito Today 956-277-0645
Maintenance of trees during windy season
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
Having trees in front of your house makes the property look welcoming and endearing, but there are some cons to having a tree as well. Having a tree on your property near your home brings shade to your yard and fun adventures for your kids. Trees also tend to grow a lot and sometimes get out of hand. This is when trees can be bad if they are too close to your home. If one day it is super windy, and the wind causes your tree starts to sway and the branches start to scrape up against your house or your roof, and damages end up happening to your home and you try and call your insurance agent to see if they will cover the bill for the damages because of the wind. They won’t be able to help you with the cost of the damage because they will tell you that is lack of maintenance on your trees. So SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito would like to remind you to make sure that you are trimming your trees regularly to prevent this from happening.
Emergency Readiness Plan
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
Hurricane season is just around the corner so as business owners it is crucial to have an emergency plan. Well, here at SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito we offer an Emergency Readiness Plan for your company. This program helps you as a business owner feel at rest when something does happen like a pipe burst, or an electrical fire, or even a hurricane, because the sooner you respond to the emergency the sooner you can get back to business as is. The Emergency Readiness Plan consolidates all of your building information into one application that can be found on your phone or computer as well as a hard copy folder. It shows you were all the shut offs are and your account information for your utilities so if you need to contact them you have it all in one place and you don’t have to go digging through your filing cabinets trying to find out all that information. The two “R’s” Restore and Replace, most people always think that oh just tear everything out and get me all new items, but this process is very expensive because most insurance policies will only help you to get your business to preloss conditions, so everything that you want new you will have to cough up more money to pay for the new items. With restoration is key our team can restore your items and make them look exactly like they looked before the disaster happened. We can also get your business up and running in no time. So if you would like your company to receive an Emergency Readiness Plan call SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito at 956-277-0645. We are open 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Restoring Your Commercial Property After a Water Damage Event
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
Flooding and water damage events in the Rio Grande Valley commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Who is SERVPRO and why choose us?
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
The fairly typical scenario we’ve probably all had the misfortune to witness: broken/leaky pipe. It’s more of a common occurrence than I first believed. It’s a major pain to deal with. More so out of inconvenience than anything else. It’s not really that large of a situation to call up your insurance company and file a claim.
The last thing you want to have to do is file a claim and mess with your insurance. So, what do you do?? Guess you grab some towels and buckets and cancel your weekend plans, right?
Guess again! Not so fast!
You may ask: “Well what’s the harm in picking up the mess? It has to get done, right?”
The issue is really about all the things that are lying beneath the surface… behind the walls, under the carpet/tile. The things we don’t see.
- Do you have pets? No matter how well you’ve cleaned up after them, they leave behind all kinds of germs and bacteria, and when they come back into contact with water, those harmful toxins are reactivated and can leave foul odors/stains, or even worse… get you and your family sick.
- What year was your home built? This may seem like a pointless question at first, but it really helps us find out what tools we’re gonna need to get the job done the right way. See, in the early ’90s, there was a large amount of Chinese Dry Wall being used in home construction. The difference in this type of drywall is that it is a lot more dense, heavier and may even contain metal. This plays a big role in how long we’d need to leave drying equipment set up.
The type of insulation of your home is another factor to consider. Carpet? Type of carpet pad? Type of tile? Ceramic? Subfloor? Plank wood floor? You get the idea.
- Relative Humidity. Well you can just open a window, right? That’ll dry it out, right? Relative Humidity. That’s the difference between humidity in the home vs. outside the home. And the difference in whether you might get mold or not. Unless you have the equipment to test the moisture levels in the air, then it may not be the best idea.
You may be able to mop up the surface, but that’s as far as most will be able to reach. It’s the water you don’t see that becomes the problem. Can’t exactly mop behind your walls, or under your tile. A few weeks may go by and you’ll notice a funky smell that never really goes away… and that’s when you’ll know: mold.
Although at first thought, it may seem like unnecessary, fancy solutions to a simple problem… it’s honestly way more than that. Getting in front of the problem to prevent secondary damage is what SERVPRO does best.
So next time you experience any kind of unexpected mishap, test us out and see what SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito can do for you.
Commercial Services For Rio Grande Valley Business Owners & Managers
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
There is no job too big or too small for our SERVPRO team.
Our services are available those in property management, retail, education, healthcare, hospitality, food services, government/military, manufacturing/industrial and many more!
For our commercial customers, we offer a myriad of services such as
- Water/Fire restoration
- mold remediation
- storm and major events
- disaster recovery
SERVPRO of Harlingen / San Benito offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get you back to business in no time at all. Our cleaning services include the following:
- Air Ducts and HVAC
- Biohazard and Sewage
- Trauma and Crime Scene
- Carpet and Upholstery
- Drapes and Blinds
- Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
- Odor Removal and Deodorization
- Vandalism
If you or someone you know would benefit from our services, feel free to call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito at (956) 277-0645.
*Remember: call direct and avoid the lines!
We are also offering No Cost Assessments and No Cost Emergency Response Plans. Our services are available 24/7/365 and we will always execute our jobs with promptness and professionalism.
Find and like our page on Facebook at SERVPRO Facebook.
Protect Your Home From the Threat of Lightning | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
You likely already know how essential it is to prepare and maintain fire safety supplies in order to protect your loved ones, but even with the best-laid plans, the weather may change everything in an instant.
Lightning was the cause of at least 70,000 damage-related insurance claims in 2020, and it is estimated to strike close to 6,000 times every single minute. This clearly shows that lightning is a high risk we should all do our best to prepare our homes and our lives for.
What is lightning?
A giant spark between the air and the ground is what we know as lightning. Thunderstorms and lightning go hand in hand, but lightning also occurs due to the extreme heat of a forest fire, the heaviness of a snowstorm or the extreme of volcanic eruption.
A sudden bolt of lightning can strike out of dry, sunny skies, too. This phenomenon is known as “dry lightning,” and it creates a dangerous situation as the heat of the strike meets dry grass, trees or other vegetation and starts a wildfire. Lightning is a possibility in every single season, so preparation is key to preventing damages and staying safe.
<h3your-home-from-lightning-fires">Protecting Your Home From Lightning Fires
Lightning can do a lot of damage to a home, and even has the potential to start a fire. A fire from a lightning strike would likely start in your walls or attic, and it can be caused by either the intense heat of the strike itself or an electrical surge that occurs when the strike passes through your home wiring.
A fire may not be immediately detectable, but the sound of the strike will be.
If an incredibly loud noise has shaken your house, look around for signs of burn marks, singeing and smoke. Call the fire department if you do find anything, and check with an electrician to ensure the wiring in your home is safe after the all-clear has been given.
In order to give your home some protection from lightning, consider adding a metal rod, or lightning rod to your roof. This conducts the electricity of a lightning strike into the ground rather than into your house.
A whole-home surge protector is another great preventive tool for your home’s protection. This is added to your main electric panel by an electrician. This kind of surge protection can go a long way in reducing the risk that a strike will cause a surge that could kill your appliances and spark a fire.
<h3lightning-strikes-nearby">When Lightning Strikes Nearby
Every year, approximately 9,000 wildfires are the result of a lightning strike. The intensely high heat of lightning means that these fires move fast and threaten a great deal of land once they are burning. Regardless of the time of year, a dry season means a high risk.
Make sure your landscaping stays free of vegetation that is dead or dying, and think about using defensible zones in your yard to protect your home by diverting fire away when lightning does strike nearby.
Make sure every level of your house has a working smoke detector so you and your family are alerted as fast as possible.
If you do have fire damage, call SERVPRO at any time, day or night. We are ready to take on every part of the restoration process with industry-leading equipment and extensive experience. It is our goal to get you back to life as normal.
Have you experienced smoke or fire damage in your home? Call us today to get the restoration finished fast.
SERVPRO is Your Support Team!
9/27/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito have been dedicated to their customers since they first opened. This dedication is what set them apart from other companies. They are not there to just fix your problem, they are there to show ongoing support for their customers difficult time. They don’t see their customers as just anther number, they see them as members of their community. Each on of our employees knows how to deal with loss and crisis because they themselves hae been placed in similar situations. Damages caused by fire, water, and mold are all too common these days. And when you realize that you have been effected by them, you want somebody to help you fix the problem. SERVPRO goes beyond that, we help you understand the root of the issue. We help you prevent future damages, and walk you through every step of the way.
Precautions to take after a flooding.
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
With any water loss, it is best to call for professional help as soon as possible. After a storm there can be multiple instances that water damages can occur. First call a professional to guide you on what they preferred you take care of if you wanted to. SERVPRO wouldn't want you to put yourselves in harms way, so it's best to call our offices prior to entering any damaged areas. If you did want to rake precautions you could start by making sure you or your family members are not in harm's way. Try removing as much water as possible by mopping the area. Remove any wet area rugs/carpets that are not permanently attached. Prop up wet furniture on cushions and raise the furniture on the floor. It is essential to try to remove as much water as possible because bacterial growth can grow within hours of the water loss. SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito employees have had training in water damage cleanup and restoration. So you can trust that your home or workplace will be in safe hands. We’ll make it as though it never even happened!
Prevent Home Flooding Both Inside and Out | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
Flooding can happen anywhere, which means that anyone who owns property needs to be prepared. As little as an inch of water can create substantial damages.
If you live in an area that is not considered high risk for flooding you may not qualify for financial help from private insurers or federal funds. This makes preparation even more important to avoid costly repairs.
There are things you can do to prepare your home, starting with understanding your risks. Most of our area has seen flooding in the past, and carries many risks from rivers and heavy rains.
We also know that if sea levels rise, there are additional risks. These factors mean that we need to act now in order to be best prepared and protect our properties.
Protecting Your Home From the OutsideFloods can come from anywhere, even when completely unexpected. A heavy rain can leave gutters overwhelmed and yards soggy. When you take the time to prepare your home both inside and out, you can lower your risks and minimize your damages.
Clean your gutters regularly to remove debris that could block the flow of water. You could also consider adding an inexpensive extended downspout to ensure that water moves away from your home.
You can also use your landscaping to keep water from gathering and coming into your house. Adding a garden is a great way to increase absorption by pulling water down through soil into roots.
Organic materials such as mulch can also provide a great layer of protection when added near the house in a sloping pattern. This can protect your foundation by keeping water moving away and preventing puddles.
There are also some upgrades you could consider, including having electric moved up on the exterior of your home and anchoring fuel tanks. While these can be costly, adding an inexpensive rain barrel that catches water directly from a gutter can be effective at preventing ponding water and provides a free source of water for your plants.
Flood Protection From the InsideProtecting your home from sources of external flooding means having a thoroughly sealed basement and well-shored up foundation.
A sump pump is also highly effective at removing water before it can cause damages. Since we have such a high risk of flooding and other storms in this part of Texas, a battery-operated pump might be the best idea to ensure water is removed from your home even if the power is out.
For protection from flooding that does not start outside, simple home maintenance can make a big difference.
Pipes that have aged and worn out can fail and cause substantial flooding. Take care of dripping faucets and make checking your plumbing a regular part of your weekly schedule to stop damage before it can start.
A leak sensor can also be a smart investment to catch water when it is somewhere that it shouldn’t be before it can become a major problem. There are home security systems that include this as an upgrade, so add it the next time you update your installation.
No matter where the water comes from, photographs, books and other paper goods will be damaged immediately. Keep irreplaceable items and important documents stored somewhere safe, and add SERVPRO to your emergency contact list. We are available 24⁄7 to start drying out your home fast.
Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO today to get your restoration completed faster.
3 Types of Common Storm Damages | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
8/25/2022 (Permalink)
When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito your first call.
Severe storms are the last thing anyone wants to deal with. When you are a homeowner, you worry not just for the safety of your family, but also about whether your property will be damaged. Most homes can take a lot, but sometimes a storm blows in that will leave behind a trail of damages.
Each season comes with threats that can include strong thunderstorms and snowstorms, and when combined with the year-round risk of flooding and strong winds, your home is vulnerable to all kinds of damage.
The kind of threat your home faces depends on several factors, including the type of weather hitting, the location of your home and even the way your property is landscaped. The way your home is constructed also plays a part of your weather related risk factors. And sometimes things simply come down to luck.
Our Texas weather is a treat in the winter as our temperatures typically stay fairly mild, but in the warmer months, we face the risk of tornadoes, hurricane activity, hail and severe thunderstorms. We know our warmer months mean staying extra prepared, but the more we can learn about the most common forms of storm damage, the safer we can keep our home and our loved ones.
Wind
Wind damage happens frequently with a variety of storms throughout the year when gusts beat buildings at extreme speeds. Tornadoes and hurricanes carry these intense winds, but a standard thunderstorm can also have gusts of up to 100 mph and cause a lot of property damage.
Winds this strong can throw debris around your property and cause damages to your house and your cars. If a storm is going to have high winds, go inside an interior space where you can avoid windows and walls, as thrown objects can shatter glass and pierce walls.
You can take action to mitigate damages. Pick up loose limbs regularly, and keep large rocks far from your house. If you have outside furniture, secure it so that it can’t be flung in a storm. Trim trees that have grown tall and take any that are dying down. The fewer items a storm can throw, the less damage your home is at risk for.
Water
Water causes a good deal of property damage across the nation. Even a mild storm can leave large amounts of rain on the ground that can enter through the seals on your window and doors.
If an enormous amount of rain falls and pools up outside your home, it can begin to flow through the floor and foundation of your home, which can cause structural damage.
You can limit damages that water may cause by being strategic about the space outside of your house. Landscape your yard to create a slope so water runs down, and look into installing a rain garden. This is both eye-appealing and a highly effective water absorption source.
Cleaning out your gutters is another effective way to keep water away from your home. When your gutters contain leaves or other materials and become blocked, water is unable to flow well and can overwhelm your gutter system. This can result in water leaking into your home through the roof and creating damage on every level of your house.
Impact
Impact damages happen when debris crashes into objects during or after a storm. This kind of damage can create total destruction to your house. It typically involves fallen trees or wind-blown debris. Impact damage is created by anything that can be thrown about or pushed in the wind.
In order to protect your home from this kind of damage, keep your trees trimmed or removed when they are no longer viable.
Last year, the weather created more than $145 billion in damages across the United States. When you are prepared for different risks, you can reduce the threats your home faces while you protect your loved ones.
If you do experience damage during or after a weather event, call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito. We are ready 24⁄7 with years of experience and industry-leading equipment to get your restoration started quickly. No matter what disaster you face, we will take care of it and get you back home faster.
When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get your storm damage restoration started faster.
Make SERVPRO Your Top Restoration Choice | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
8/8/2022 (Permalink)
No matter what type of disaster you face, SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is only a phone call away.
As small business owners, we understand how stressful the day-to-day can be. Managing your to-do list while trying to find ways to make things successful is a lot to handle, and a disaster striking can throw your entire world for a loop.
Natural disasters can’t be prevented, and sometimes we can’t even predict them, but we can do everything in our power to prepare for them. And since disasters aren’t solely possible at the office, that means preparing our home and our loved ones, too.
In order to be ready for anything that comes your way, you will need an emergency plan. A good plan starts with well-rounded knowledge about different kinds of disasters. The American Red Cross is a great source for this, as they have data from disasters all around the United States and how to best protect yourself from them.
For more localized information on the kind of disasters we most commonly see here in Texas, check out the state’s emergency management page. You should also save our county’s website so that you can reference it before, during and after an event to stay up to date with everything happening here at home.
Even with your plan in place, you may still experience damage at either your home or business, or possibly both. No matter the scope or the size of the disaster, response time will always be the most important part of recovery.
The quicker your cleanup starts, the less damage can take hold of your property. That is why SERVPRO should be your first call.
Why Choose SERVPRO?We have seen it all. Events that result in the need for cleanup and restoration happen commonly across the United States, but every single one is different.
Take flooding as an example. Each year, there are 14 million homes at risk, but every single home that does see water will have a different level of damages.
Our team is trained for any kind of emergency, regardless of size or scope. We know that each situation requires a personalized solution in order to ensure that things are handled correctly.
We are available anytime. When it comes to restoration, a fast response time will always have the best results for saving as much property as possible. When cleanup starts right away, damages can be stopped before they start and you can save money on less replacements.
When a home begins to flood, furniture, paint and fabric items are damaged immediately. Any water that is able to sit for an extended amount of time leads to mold and mildew buildup, which over time creates damage to the very structure of the home. That is why SERVPRO has 24⁄7, 365 day a year availability.
Our services go well beyond the simple. Not only do we start basic cleaning right away, but we take over the project and see it through completion.
We will work with you and your insurance agent to ensure your plan is set and your claims are handled well. We can pack boxes, tarp roofs and even rebuild structures when the damage is extensive. We want to walk with you through the entire recovery process to make things as easy and pain free as possible.
No matter what disaster strikes your home or business, SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito has you covered. With our years of training, industry-leading equipment and expertise, we can handle anything you call us with. We will get your life back to as it should be faster than you could have thought was possible.
When you suffer damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get restoration started faster.
Frequent Causes of Commercial Damage | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
8/8/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is your local commercial disaster team. Contact us to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services.
Since our country was started, businesses have always been a major component of its livelihood. We all work for or patronize one or multiple businesses on a daily basis.
Business owners have many things to think about as they run their commercial enterprise, even on an average day—and when a disaster hits, there can be disastrous consequences.
Natural disasters in the United States are causing more damage on average than they used to. The NCEI reports that in the past five years, our country has grappled with around $153 billion in damages per year, a significant increase from the previous period.
In a place like Harlingen, we experience many types of natural disasters. Record-breaking rainfalls were recorded last year, which can lead to flash flooding, and we also have to deal with thunderstorms, hurricane development from the gulf and occasional wildfire risks.
To help business owners better prepare for these risks, we have gathered some information to keep you informed. Read on to learn more.
Commercial Water DamageMoisture damage is something that threatens all businesses no matter where they are located. Whether these issues are from rainfall or appliance failure, water damage can wreak havoc on a commercial property.
Water from flash floods or overflowing rivers can seep through the doors and foundation of a business, where it can cause serious damages. Creative landscaping can be implemented to route water away from your building, which can be a smart prevention measure.
When leaks are the culprit, water damage can occur gradually over time in your commercial space, so it’s important to be vigilant in looking for signs of leaks such as warped or discolored walls. Catching these issues early can help you tremendously in preventing costly repairs.
Commercial Storm DamageStorm damage is a common cause of commercial damages and can devastate entire neighborhoods. Small storms are still a threat, leading to power outages, fallen trees and flying debris that can damage a business’ exterior.
Storms that are more powerful can rip off roofing and lead to irreversible property damage to your business’ structure.
An average storm will have winds from 10 to 45 mph, but strong storms that are common during the spring and summer can contain winds of over 100 mph. These winds can rip down walls, overturn freight trucks and easily snap trees and throw them around.
Storm-protective window covers and roof improvements can reduce storm damage, but they can be quite the investment for business owners.
Fortunately, even simple procedures such as inspecting your window and door seals and looking over your building frequently can help reduce costly repairs and damages. Before a storm hits, it is also helpful to clear out any debris, dead branches or other objects that could become projectiles.
Know Who to Count on for Commercial DamageWater damage and storm damage are common, but commercial damage can come in many forms. These events often lead to businesses closing, temporarily or permanently.
That is why we are here 24⁄7 to provide a rapid response to any type of commercial damage your business faces. We will quickly spring into action and create a restoration plan for your business.
If you have experienced damage to your business or want to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, 24⁄7.
What Is Your Storm Safety Plan? | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
8/8/2022 (Permalink)
If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito right away.
Severe weather is a frightening thing. Thunderstorms can bring about lightning strikes, heavy rain, hail and serious winds, all of which can cause damages and personal danger. Plus, considering that there are around 100,000 thunderstorms throughout the United States every year, these events occur with relative frequency.
During summertime, the south Texas heat can create ideal conditions for thunderstorms to pop up suddenly and cause serious damages when they do. Because of how quickly these conditions can come about, being safe is a must for residents of the area.
While we can never control the weather, we can certainly prepare for it—and that is exactly what we will be discussing today. From an emergency kit to a communications strategy to a plan for the aftermath, taking action to prepare for storms is an important way to reduce their impact on you and your home.
Your Severe Weather Communication StrategyWhen the weather turns nasty, having a way to communicate with everyone in your household and being able to receive communications from authorities is key. First, it is important to know the difference between watches and warnings so you can understand when to stay vigilant and when to quickly seek shelter.
Secondly, it is wise to have multiple ways to receive alerts from officials, such as your cell phone and an NOAA weather radio.
Third, make sure you have a communication strategy for your household. Have a designated safe area in your home (such as a basement or bathroom) that everyone knows to get to when the weather turns bad. Additionally, make a plan for communication in case one or more household members are away from home when a storm strikes—this way everyone knows when and how to check in and mark themselves as safe.
Your Severe Weather Emergency KitAn emergency kit should be packed with all the essentials that your family members need for at least 72 hours of sheltering in place, and it should be stored in your at-home storm shelter area. In your kit, include nonperishable food, water, flashlights and batteries, first-aid supplies and anything else you or other members of your household may need to stay safe and comfortable during a storm.
Your Severe Weather Aftermath ChecklistIn the aftermath of severe weather, it is important to be sure you are taking proper steps to improve your safety plan and quickly address any damage to your home. Once it is safe to do so, check your property for damage.
You will want to keep a close eye on your roof and seals around windows and doors, as these are areas where water damage is likely.
In case you do discover damage, be sure you know who to call. Having a team of trusted restoration professionals like SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito that you can count on to provide a quick response will bring about peace of mind, so that way you can act fast if you do discover damage to your home.
When you are able to round up with your household members, it is smart to do an audit of your entire safety plan. Gather feedback on your communications, emergency kit and any other elements that could use improvement to keep everyone safer, so that you will be even more prepared the next time severe weather rolls through.
If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here 24⁄7 to spring into action—get in touch with us today.
Fire Damage
5/2/2022 (Permalink)
A Fire
Fire DamageEvery 23 seconds, a fire department in the United States is responding to a fire, and these caused around $8.1 billion in direct property damage and losses nationwide in 2020.
Experiencing a fire is a frightening thing, but we are here to immediately jump into action. Our seven-step restoration process is designed to get you help quickly.
We begin with an inspection and damage assessment, then progress through all the necessary restoration steps before beginning repair and construction
SERVPRO is always here when you need us—you can get in touch using our 24⁄7 Emergency Line for immediate assistance with your damage.
Regardless of the type of damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when you need a dependable team to help you rebuild your life.
Fire Prevention
4/23/2022 (Permalink)
Always keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito are licensed and trained to handle any situation that their clients have found themselves in. Rather than look for blame, SERVPRO looks for how to help their clients never run into these citations again. As the moto says, we make it as though it never even happened. One of the situations that SERVPRO handles are fire damages. Fires can start very easily, but their also easy to prevent. One of the things that is always recommended is to check your smoke and fire alarms. Often times people forget about them since their not very visible, or have never been in a risky situation. However, it is important to do monthly checks on these systems, as well as keeping a fire extinguisher on hand. Keep items that can cath on fire at least three feet away from items such as candles or heaters. Speaking of heaters, make sure that they are clean and that the filters have been changed. That goes for laundry machines as well. Lastly teach your loved ones about fire prevention and how sounds of fire/smoke alarms sound. Remember to keep an exit strategy in mind for your home.
SERVPRO Restoration Experts Are a Team You Can Trust | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
4/21/2022 (Permalink)
No matter the damage sustained, SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito has the tools and team to help your home return to a normal state quickly.
At SERVPRO, we offer more than general restoration, construction and cleanup. When the worst natural or manmade disasters strike, we are the team you can trust to respond quickly and effectively.
From hurricane damage to flooding to fires, we have helped countless families in Harlingen recover from damages to their home or business—and we are here 24⁄7 to help you, too.
Water Damage
Floods lead to over $10 billion in damages throughout the country every year, and because floods can occur anywhere and at any time, it is important to have a plan in place for how to handle them.
Flooding is something that many home or business owners will face at some point, but know that SERVPRO is here to help. We have the tools to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water, and we will make sure you understand the severity of the damage so you can take the proper steps toward restoration.
Plus, we will create a full restoration plan so you can be certain your home will be clean, dry and restored to its preloss status.
SERVPRO Is the Business Partner You Didn’t Know You Had | SERVPRO® of Harlingen/San Benito
4/5/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito are your local commercial restoration experts. Contact us today should you experience any damage.
Keeping your business afloat is a serious task, and most people need all the help they can get to do it. For owners and property managers, keeping things running is no easy feat under normal circumstances, which means that major disruptions or losses can be devastating to businesses.
If you have a retail property, manufacturing facility or rental space, you have a built-in business partner for all your cleanup and recovery requirements—and it’s right here in Harlingen’s backyard.
At SERVPRO, we are here to carry the burden for any business need that involves restoration, and you can count on us to be a valuable component of your business success plan.
Large loss recovery. For businesses throughout the U.S., fires, storms and flooding are among the top causes of financial loss. These incidents can cause devastating amounts of damage, especially if action isn’t taken quickly. When you rely on us for business restoration, you can be certain you are getting an expert team of restoration specialists, and rest assured that we are here 24⁄7 to minimize your downtime and prioritize your recovery.
Emergency Ready Plan. Ideally, the recovery will start before your disaster begins—that is why it is so important that you take steps to prepare in advance. We are here to help you create your business’ emergency plan, so you can know exactly what to do when disaster strikes. Including everything including an emergency chain of command, alternate meeting or work sites, temporary vendors and more during a crisis, we can set your business up for a single button push that gets the ball rolling on all of it.
Cleaning of All Kinds. We have cleaning solutions for every type of scenario, from specialty needs like trauma site cleanup and safe biohazard removal to general needs like carpet cleaning and upholstery restoration in high-traffic areas. We’ve been doing this a very long time, and we’ve seen and cleaned it all.
Restoration Services. Sudden floods after a heavy rainstorm. An intern setting a fire in the office kitchen. A pipe bursting within the wall. Unfortunately, these things happen—but SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is here for your cleanup and restoration. From water removal to reconstruction, you can trust us to make your business shine again after an unwanted incident.
Industry Specialization. We know the ins and outs of so many different industries, so there is no commercial enterprise we can’t help. Whatever the specific or unique needs of your business may be, we can tackle your cleaning or restoration needs. In many cases we can even enclose the work area so as to not disrupt regular business in other areas.
Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.
How You Can Prevent Water Damage at Home
4/5/2022 (Permalink)
Tips on how to prevent water damages in your home.
Did you know that water damage can weaken your homes' structure?
We all know that water damages are usually unexpected occurrences, but what if you knew what to look out for in order to prevent them?
The simplest and easiest place to start is to do routine checks of your home for water leaks and get them fixed before damages occur. What does this mean?
Examples of this include, but are not limited to:
-checking you the shingles on your roof and replace them if needed
-check all water sources (faucets, etc.) for dripping
-inspect walls or ceilings and look for dark spots or dampness or sagging
-check your wallpaper for blistering
-check your pipes for rusting
-check your floor to ensure there is no warping or soft spots
These can all be indications of water damage and if you make it a habit to look out for these signs, you are likely to catch an issue before it snowballs.
Call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito if you have any questions or concerns, today!
Water damage can happen at any moment!
3/24/2022 (Permalink)
flooded living room
Water damages occur at any moment. Often due to a leak or just human error. In order to gain a better understanding of how to prevent water damage remember to check on a few things from time to time. For example check for any cracks or discoloration along the walls of your home. Water damages leave signs and tell owners how severe the problems are. Leaks within pipes that haven't left stains on the walls yet can be checked by looking at your water bill. If there is a rise in cost maybe there's a leak in one of your pipes. Your insurance can be affected by the severity of the water damage, so it’s important that you call for a professional rather than trying to fix it yourself.
Water Damage and Structure go hand in hand.
3/24/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito is trained to repair water damages, they know that water damages left untreated are a recipe for disaster. Water damages lead to other issues such as changes within a structure. Such changes can even lead to a building's collapse. There are signs in which a structure will inform you that there is an issue concerning water damage. There will be cracks within walls or ceilings, along with discoloration within carpets and walls. Another specific one is wooden floors will swell up, if you are not aware of what this may look like imagine a warped tin or a paper shaped bent into a U. If you find that you have water damage within a carpeted structure it is crucial to act fast. This is because carpets tend to absorb water and if not cleaned properly or quickly can lead to mold.
Act Now Not Later.
3/24/2022 (Permalink)
Moldy Wall
When experiencing an issue within our home it’s easy to decide to put the situation off until later once things become more convenient. When this happens situations tend to become worse, and people just put a “band-aid” on the problem. Leaving the issue as “solved”. However, leaving water damage to sit and not be properly examined or repaired leads to numerous problems that in the end result in a higher cost. Water sitting in an area is slowly going to start growing mold. Smells begin to form due to the moisture levels and mildew. Mold is not always detectable at first and often times it results in serious health issues. Respiratory issues and skin problems are side effects of living alongside mold. SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito has a good understanding of how to eliminate mold and repair the water damage.
SERVPRO Makes Things Better.
3/24/2022 (Permalink)
office space
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito helps with commercial spaces more often than you would think. During these difficult times, SERVPRO was going to commercial businesses and disinfecting areas in order to provide clean areas for workers and clients. However, it doesn’t have to be as serious as a disinfecting job. SERVPRO also helps commercial spaces with a quick and thorough cleaning. SERVPRO covers everything from carpets, ceilings, and upholsteries to floors and window treatments. The experience is given to them from countless past jobs, and from attending frequent training. SERVPRO employees are always looking towards increasing their knowledge in how to help with customer satisfaction. SERVPRO uses cleaning products manufactured by none other than SERVPRO. They are safe products to use around children and pets. So whether you want a home cleaning or a clean-up at your pet shop SERVPRO has you covered.
The Variety of Storms and Weather Hazards That Spring Brings
3/22/2022 (Permalink)
Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is a click away if you experience any damag
America is the third-largest nation in the world, coming in behind Russia and Canada in total size (though if you do not include outlying U.S. territories, China is also larger).
With this much land in one nation, weather conditions can vary tremendously from one part of the country to another. Because different areas of the country have different weather patterns, they also experience differing weather-related dangers, to varying degrees across a year’s span.
With spring weather developing over the nation, hot and cold air will be colliding in many parts of the country. With that, we thought now would be a good time to get an overview of what weather events can be expected in large regions, and more specifically, what we need to be aware of here in Southern Texas.
The Pacific Northwest is known for its heavy spring rains, which often lead to floods and other types of water damage for those in the area. In areas with higher elevation, snow is still a concern, as is the problems that can be caused from snowmelt runoff.
The Upper Midwest and Northeast regions experience winter weather for the longest period of time, meaning they will still have cold weather through much of the spring season. Those living in Maine, the Dakotas and everywhere in between can expect continually extreme cold, snowstorms and blizzards until late spring or early summer.
Spring is when the southern West Coast will begin to be concerned with excessive heat waves that can be dangerous or even fatal, and areas of the South Pacific such as Hawaii will need to be on alert for potential tsunamis.
From Iowa to Texas, spring brings about the concern of windstorms, derechos and the risk of wildfires, which are especially prevalent during dry spells of spring. Additionally, much of this area is prone to tornadoes, which should always be watched out for.
Finally, the Southeast typically experiences a range of weather including thunderstorms and tornadoes further inland, while coastal areas may experience early season hurricanes and dangerous rip currents.
In any part of the country, the threat of serious weather conditions in the spring season are real. It is always wise to be on alert this time of year to ensure you know how to stay safe should severe weather strike.
If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.
Do you know what a fire hazard looks like?
3/22/2022 (Permalink)
Stoves can be fire hazards.
House fires can be very devastating, especially when you realize that it may have been completely preventable. The first thing we recommend to our community is to be aware of how fires can start and spread.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of fire is rooted from appliances and equipment, such as heaters or clothing dryers.
Do you remove the lent from your dryer periodically? Do you keep your heaters away from combustable materials, like bed sheets or curtains? Do you ensure your laptop or desktop computers are not overheated? Do you dust them periodically?
It is important to look around your house or a room in your house and look for these hazards. These practices can help you and your family prevent a house fire.
If you need any tips or have any questions, contact us at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito.
Do you know about Soot?
3/22/2022 (Permalink)
Soot results from fire.
Soot is the resulting product of a fire when it does not completely burn its fuel source. You may have seen it before; it is black and powdery.
When soot ionizes, it sticks to difference sources, such as walls, floors, and furniture. It also makes its way into your home or businesses's heating and air conditioning system, which can cause your home or business to have poor air quality and ventilation. This exposure, whether it be through your mouth, eyes, or even skin, can be dangerous to your health since soot is composed of toxic chemicals.
Instead of taking this risk, contact our team of highly trained technicians at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito! We the appropriate protective equipment, technical practices, and technology to safely clean and restore your home or business after a fire.
What you can do to prevent a fire at your business place.
3/22/2022 (Permalink)
Ensure that you have a fire safety plan and follow it!
As business owners and managers, it is our responsibility to implement safety procedures in the work place. This includes steps that can help to prevent commercial structural fires. Not only does this keep our staff and work team safe, but it also ensures the safety of our business space.
Here is a list of tips:
1. Establish a fire safety preparedness plan and enforce this plan and related regulations.
2. Replace and maintain safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers or alarms.
3. Host a training and review this plan with your staff periodically. As well as when you have a new employee on board.
4. Regularly review and keep documentation of appliance maintenance in your business that can cause a fire. For example, electronic equipment and wiring.
These are all simple things we can do to prevent this kind of disaster. Contact us at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito with any inquires or concerns.
How long since the carpets have been cleaned?
3/22/2022 (Permalink)
We care about your team's health and success.
Pause and take a moment to ask yourself how many hundreds or even thousands of people have walked on the carpeting at your place of work? Now, consider all the unpleasant things that the bottom of these hundreds or thousands of shoes are tracking inside? Scary, huh?
Here, at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito, we offer commercial carpet cleaning services. Let us help you save money. It would be a great loss if you had to completely replace this carpeting due to deteriorated quality, or even mold growth. Help us help you keep your place of business presentable and safe to all of your staff and every customer that you serve on a daily basis.
Contact us now, and our trained technicians will use advanced technology to completely clean and restore your carpeting.
Heard of internal pipe corrosion?
3/22/2022 (Permalink)
Pipe corrosion can cause water damage.
Internal pipe corrosion can be an underlying cause of water damage. Once the metal pipes erode over time, their capacity to hold water may lessen. Depending on whether the loss of strength is general or at a certain area, this can eventually cause the pipes to burst, rupture, or leak and lead to a water damage.
Ensure that you are regularly maintaining the structure's pipes and that your company is following state regulations, which includes inspection compliance, so that you will be notified of any potential pipe corrosion.
Contact SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito if you have any questions or concerns! If you have suffered a water damage due to pipe corrosion, contact us at any time and our specialized team can begin the restoration process.
More Than a Job
2/9/2022 (Permalink)
Worker and a client hand in hand
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito cares about the state of our clients. We don’t believe that a job is just a job because our work affects people. And the people that we help are important. We don’t think of ourselves as people who are outside the situation, because that fire could have happened to us or the people we love. As scary as that feels, we sympathize with those who have this experience. We want to help get their lives back on track, like our motto says we’ll make it as though it never even happened. We will communicate and explain what is happening in your homes, and why it needs to happen. We will help explain what can prevent future damages, and help assure you that you're in good hands.
Customer Service
2/9/2022 (Permalink)
Support is what our team is all about!
During a time of crisis the best people to call is SERVPRO. SERVPRO of Harlingen / San Benito has experience and is licensed to handle damages from storm, water, mold, and fire. Even if it’s a small damage SERVPRO can handle it with no worries. If your wondering whether or not it’s actually damage, not only are we just a phone call away but our website is filled with information on different issues that SERVPRO has made disappear. Not only does SERVPRO respond within minutes, we’re available for contact 24/7. We’ll drive to you with out team and asses the damage. We’ll give you a evaluation and let you know the steps to take moving forward. We pride ourselves in our customer service, believing that its our job to make this as easy as possible for you.
Fire Safety: Candles
2/8/2022 (Permalink)
Candle
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito wants to reassure you that fire damage is not the end of your world. We can make It as though it never even happened. However, how do we make sure it never even happens? There are a few ways to prevent fires that we may not even think about. Candles are a home favorite accent. The warm light and sweet smell bring everyone comfort, but did you know that trimming the stem in your candles can actually prevent a large flame and make them last longer. Candles should be placed away from flammable objects but also away from table/shelf corners to prevent them from falling over. If you have a child or a pet it’s very easy to knock over objects, so it’s better to keep them from edges. If you love candles, but don’t want to deal with an actual flame, there's an alternative called a lamp warmer. A light bulb will melt your candle keeping that warm light and smell around the house with no fire risk.
More Than A Building
2/8/2022 (Permalink)
- SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito has been repairing fire damages since they opened in 2015. With so much experience not only have we built up unity as workers but we have a better understanding of our clients every step of the way. We understand that every case is different and that for our clients it’s not just a building. This building can be a business that took years in the making. It could be a safe place for a family to call home. We understand the difficulty in losing something you rely on and that's why we take extra care of not only damage within your special place, but of you. Our clients are our family, and it means so much to us to take care of you and to explain everything that’s going on with your special place.
Choose Our Team!
1/3/2022 (Permalink)
You can rely on our team!
Did you know that SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito has other specialties besides water and fire damage?
We are also experts in mold remediation, deodorization, commercial cleaning, and storm damage.
We invest in the Rio Grande Valley by hiring people from our communities. We provide Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training. These trainings are based on the IICRC standards for the restoration process. We also provide extensive continued education, both virtual and in-person.
Our team is taught to carry out these services efficiently 24/7, every single day of the year, regardless of the weather.
And most importantly, we treat all of our clients with respect and compassion. At SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito, you are invaluable.
Give us a call today!
We care about your business!
11/30/2021 (Permalink)
We can get this job done better than you can imagine!
As business owners we know what it is like to invest your hard earned money and valuable time into your place of work. We also know how important it is for your business to effectively serve its purpose in the community. Finally, we understand that your team of employees are your family because this is how we see out own team.
With limited time and urgency for your business, small or large, to be restored, why not put your trust in a team that is on the same page as you are?
You'll see that our team is highly trained in all aspects of restoration and cleanup according to our headquarters' guidelines. We establish and maintain clear communication with our clients to carry out the work that is expected. Our team of positive and hard working individuals will supersede your expectations!
Give SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito a call!
Signs of Water Damage
9/25/2021 (Permalink)
Remember to check your drywall!
We’ve spoken to many customers that will say, “I had no idea I even had water damage! How can there possibly be mold?”
Don’t feel like you’re the only one. If you have no reason to suspect there is water damage, you probably wouldn’t look for the signs. We always advise our clients to check for these signs as a precaution! For example, you can look to see if you have missing or damaged roof shingles. This may be an indication of water damage. Another sign includes holes in your roof flashing. Inside your home, you might want to inspect for cracks in your drywall or peeling paint. More obvious signs include warped flooring, wet carpets, or the odor of dampness or moisture. The sooner you become aware there is a problem, the sooner our team can go out there and fix it for you!
How To Prevent Storm Damages to your Home
9/25/2021 (Permalink)
Storm Damage
We always hear about how we can prepare for a storm on the news, right? We are encouraged to have spare batteries and canned foods in our home. But what about preparing before a storm to prevent damages to our home?
There are often strong winds involved in storms. An easy way to prevent damage, would be to cut any loose branches from surrounding trees, and keep them trimmed. You should also consider getting rid of or tying down anything that can be lifted up by the wind and harm your structure. For example, you may have loose bricks from construction or patio furniture, such as a picnic table that can cause damage. It is recommended that you also keep an eye on your roofing and siding conditions. Ensure that neither are damaged and if they are, have them fixed prior. Finally, be sure that water can flow away from your home and into a drain or trench in order to prevent water damage to your home. If you have any questions or would like more tips, contact us at SERVPRO Harlingen/ San Benito.
What about the dangers of thunder and lightning?
9/25/2021 (Permalink)
Safety Tips!
How can a thunder and lightning storm affect your home or property? We don’t always hear about this, but they can be dangerous.
As you know, thunder and lightning come hand-in-hand. The temperature of the lightning that strikes can potentially be so high as to cause a fire. This may happen within the walls of your home. If this occurs, you should call the fire department. You should also consider consulting your electrician for further assessment. Electrical surges also occur and can cause damage to your electrical belongings, such as your television or stereo system. In order to prevent damages like this, remember to disconnect any electrical devices or appliances once the storm is announced. If your home or property happens to be damaged by fire, contact our team of trained and experienced technicians at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito.
We are here to serve you!
9/25/2021 (Permalink)
Call us today!
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito are here to help you during difficult times when you've reached a crisis. Whether it be something as small as a carpet cleaning to as big as flooding SERVPRO is there for you every step of the way. There's no need to take matters into your own hands, at times that can cause more damage and result in spending more money than needed. SERVPRO is a company you can trust. We are available 24/7 to answer your calls and questions. A representative will go in and take an estimate of the damage and discuss the work that needs to be done with you. With us you're never lost, our priority is keeping you informed and safe.Our team will drive to your aid, and repair the damages so you don't have to.
Vandalism
9/25/2021 (Permalink)
Vandalism
Picture it on your way to work, you drive into the parking lot and what do you see? Flashes of blue and orange spray paint along your wall, the windows are smashed in and to top it all off it starts to rain!
Vandalism can cause some serious damage to your business. In this scenario the broken window could let in rain and cause water damage such as mold and wet carpet. While you may think that it’s no big deal that it’s nothing a good paint job or a window replacement can’t fix, You may be setting yourself up for a larger bill and workload than you realize.
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito are certified in taking care of vandalism and can make it as if this nightmare never even happened. With our consultation we'll be able to tell you what you need to prevent further damage and explain to you why.
Does your workplace smell?
9/25/2021 (Permalink)
Sewage Odor
Walking into a home or office sets up a setting for people. A home is a peaceful setting to relax and be with family, an office is one of focus. However strong odors from mold, and family pets can cause those settings to be disrupted and make it unbearable to live with. SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito specialize in odor removal. Our workers are trained to identify the source of odor, which at times can come from not inside the building but outside along the property. Odors can be removed within just a day's work or with several sessions depending on the severity of the case. However SERVPRO will make sure that you can regain your daily life in a workable setting no longer having to struggle with odors.
We are a team!
9/25/2021 (Permalink)
Give us a call!
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito is built on workers who treat each other as a family establishment. We believe that the way we conduct ourselves amongst each other, and how we handle our work behind the scenes makes it easier for you to trust and cooperate with us. We want you to know that we’re here to make things easy, and understandable for you. With the amount of cases we work we understand that the issues that arise for our clients can be traumatic and you not only need help, but kindness as well. We may make it "Like it never even happened," but we’ll make sure you remember the kindness and support we gave you and your family. Because to us at SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito you are our family.
How To Protect Your Home
8/11/2021 (Permalink)
Storm season brings about a lot of mild hurricanes, but can also bring about heavy storms. Regardless of the size, damage is a plausible outcome. So here are a few ways to make your home safer during storm season. Key elements to look at are windows, roofs, and door frames. When was the last time you checked on the shingles for the roof? Before storm season is a good time to replace any shingles so that they don’t lift or fall apart letting in water. Please be sure to board up any windows and place towels around any frames including door frames. Heavy winds could break windows and water can come in through the frames within your home. Water damage due to storms can be taken care of by SERVPRO "Like it never even happened."
What To Do In A Stressful Environment During A Storm
8/11/2021 (Permalink)
Let's say you've been caught in a hurricane and have lost electricity. Your kids are scared, the dog keeps barking, and your spouse keeps fiddling with the radio to hear about what's happening outside. How can you make things easier for your family during this difficult situation? Try to remain calm, it’s no good if you're frustrated as well and scare those around you. Once you’ve attained a piece of mind, brighten things up by lighting candles around the house. If you have a pet, and likely they are making a lot of noise, try to block out the noise outside with the radio. If that doesn’t work gently old your pet to provide pressure and reassurance. You can have the kids help with this, creating a distraction for them that makes them feel useful during the storm. Now when it comes to your spouse and the news take turns with this and other roles. If you take turns on food and radio watch, then you're more likely to be alert.
Storm Prevention Outside Of The Home
8/11/2021 (Permalink)
The outside of our homes can also cause a lot of damage to our house without us even realizing it. Before a storm it’s important to take these cautionary steps to make the area around your home safer. Start by trimming any trees around your home. If there are any lengthy branches the tree could cause serious damage to your home by breaking windows or even worse roofs. Take any patio furniture or decorations inside the garage or under a shed. This will prevent anything from flying into your home and breaking windows, as well as making things easier to clean up when the storm is over. Check around the house and inside the home for torn electric wires. These can be extremely dangerous and can lead to another emergency and it may be difficult for aid to reach you during the storm.
Flooding During Storms
8/11/2021 (Permalink)
When a storm occurs it’s not uncommon that flooding comes alongside it. During storms drains could be blocked, and rain will begin to turn cities into lakes. If you are ever stuck in a flooding situation try to reach high ground immediately. Do not go near bridges, and do not try to move through waters. That means no swimming, walking, or running through the water. The flooding will occur quickly and it’s very strong you could accidentally cut your limbs. These waters are so strong they could move vehicles around you so it’s best to stay away from the murky waters. Try to contact 911 in an emergency. If you are trapped in a building try to reach the rooftop, do not take the elevator go to the emergency exit stairs.
Why is it important to leave fire restoration to SERVPRO?
4/16/2021 (Permalink)
Before and After
We understand how traumatic it is to lose your home or business to a fire. We have helped numerous families and small businesses restore the homes and businesses that they have invested their whole lives building. In order to make this process easier for you and more efficient, we have a few tips for you to follow. First off, the faster you contact our team, the better the results will be. As we all know, fire leaves behind ash and soot that can cause permanent damage if left unaddressed. Over just a couple of hours, your building structure can be affected by corrosion, discoloration, and even diffusion of odor. By contacting us sooner, you can prevent the damage from becoming much more extensive. Our technicians are specifically trained in fire restoration, so leave your worries to us!
How to prevent stove fires?
4/16/2021 (Permalink)
A lit stove.
Did you know that the leading cause of fire are cooking-related fires? The kinds of fires also cause the most injuries. They can be such a terrible and unexpected surprise when your intentions are only to cook something delicious for your family. There are a few things you can do to prevent them! Firstly, it may seem logical to put these fires out with water, but this will only spread the fire further. The water reaches the bottom of the pan and becomes steam, which then propels the flames into the air and can cause you to be burned. In order to prevent these fires from starting, you should be sure your cooking equipment is not defective. You should also ensure that there is nothing combustible near your cooking area. Also monitor the flame, especially if you are cooking with oil. These easy tips can be very helpful and keep your family or employees safe!
Commercial Water Detection Equipment
4/16/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO wants the best for your establishment. We don’t want to leave any stone unturned when it comes to evaluating your work space for damage. That is why we use several methods to evaluate the scene so it can be properly repaired. Using the science of psychrometrics (the study of the air) our equipment can measure humidity, vapor pressure, and even temperature. Our equipment involves, but isn’t limited to moisture devices. These devices are called: Moisture sensors, moisture meters, and thermohygrometers. Moisture sensors can detect moisture in carpets and in walls. Moisture Meters are used to detect the moisture content within the room. Understanding the content is useful for when we decide on the drying technique. Thermohygrometers are used to measure temperature and humidity. These tools are necessary to ensure your work space is safe, and allows us to work efficiently. We’ll make the disaster "Like it never even happened."
Sewage/Toilet Overflow Clean Up
3/24/2021 (Permalink)
Polluted Pipe water
SERVPRO sees cases in which water backups occur very seriously. The water may contain bacteria, and even viruses that can cause a great deal of damage towards the human body. Before cleaning up our SERVPRO team will evaluate the water to see which category it belongs to. The three categories SERVPRO has are “Clean water”, “Gray water”,and “Black water”. When the water is categorized as “clean” the damage is most likely caused by a leak, or broken water supply. This is the least serious to fix, but if untreated can become “Gray water”. “ Gray water” could be due to an overflow of your toilet, or of your washing machine. This water can cause illness, and should be cleaned as soon as possible before the water becomes “black” and extremely contaminated. “Black Water” is mainly seen in sewers and toilets. This water is extremely dangerous. Consequences of digestion could lead to death. We advise you to keep away from this water and call us immediately to keep you and your family safe.
Your Belongings
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Items
Your belongings can be a meaningful thing to part with. When you go through water damage you may wonder what can you keep? At SERVPRO we go through a contents restoration review. We understand that there's value in your belongings, and would rather you save money then having to replace what you've already purchased. Our team reviews the items and uses guidelines to determine if they are indeed restorable. Our methods for restoring items are: Dry Cleaning, Wet Cleaning, Spray and Wipe, Foam Cleaning, Abrasive Cleaning, Immersion Cleaning. Dry Cleaning goes before a wet cleaning in which we do a light cleaning before going on to remove heavy residues in wet cleaning. Spray and Wipe is used for items that can’t go through a wet cleaning. Foam cleaning is practiced on upholstery items that may shrink if gone through the wet cleaning. Abrasive is the surface cleaning, and immersion is when items are dipped in a bath of cleaning products. So you see we have methods for all your items, with careful consideration of what their conditions are.
Electronics
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Electronics
SERVPRO understands that the electronics you purchase were in no way cheap. Whether it be in dollars or in time, products such as video game consoles and televisions can be costly to replace. SERVPRO wants to make sure that the products you have really need to be discarded. When we go evaluate your contents for restoration we want to keep you safe. Electronics can be a serious hazard. It is important that you do not attempt to work these devices before they have been evaluated. Turning on such products after a water damage can cause further damage to the environment, and more importantly can be a medical hazard towards your and your family. SERVPRO begins by cleaning the surface of your devices to prevent corrosion and then these products are evaluated by an electronic technician. This lets us know if they are a danger and are qualified for being a restorable.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Work space
SERVPRO aims for a higher standard of cleanliness. We want to help you establish a sanitary environment where you can work and create a successful business. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is our duty to you to sanitize the area, during the year of 2020 we understood how serious it was to keep a work environment safe. SERVPRO will consult with you in order to better understand your business and it’s needs. Our team will use our proprietary EPA-approved, hospital-grade cleaning solutions. We assure you that we will do a deep cleaning that is correspondent to CDC standards. After the cleaning is completed the establishment will be issued a seal to show that your business is cleaned and safe. This seal is to be placed on the window of your establishment to show employees, and customers that not only is the environment safe, but as owners we went above and beyond for your health.
Non Restorable
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Photos
After experiencing a fire damage the repair may seem unreachable. SERVPRO understands that a lot makes a home, the memories you hold there are irreplaceable. Not only that but the cost to restore belongings can be a heavy burden. That’s why here at SERVPRO our team wants to make sure that your belongings can be restored, and are safe to take home. SERVPRO undergoes these methods for restoring items: Dry Cleaning, Wet Cleaning, Spray and Wipe, Foam Cleaning, Abrasive Cleaning, Immersion Cleaning. When it comes to your photos or documents we can’t make them the exact condition as before the fire, but we can restore them so that no further damage can occur. Depending on the level of fire, soot, and smoke SERVPRO has multiple options to restore the documents:Air Drying, Dehumidification, Freezer Drying, Vacuum Freeze, Drying Vacuum, Thermal Drying.
Winter Freeze
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Water
Rio Grande Valley home owners and renters did your pipes freeze earlier this month? Trust us, we know how difficult it must have been. Not only were many people without water and electricity, but not many realized that their pipes would freeze, too! For next time, what are we supposed to do when that happens? Here are some helpful tips!
1.
- If you know your pipes are prone to freezing, turn off your water supply to prevent them from bursting!
- Be aware that pipes don’t always freeze in the same places. If you think you may have prevented the problem in one place, it may not be so for another.
- Open your faucet and run a bit of water through your pipes, to prevent them from freezing.
- NEVER use heat, such as an open flame, to thaw your frozen pipes. This is a fire hazard.
- These are just a few simple tips to keep in mind. Remember to contact a professional plumber afterwards.
Emergency resources Caution
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Candle
Which resources do you rely on during a power outage? Do you use candles to light your home? While it may be your only alternative, it is important to aware that candles can also cause your home to catch on fire and endanger your loved ones. Here are some tips that can help when the time comes:
- If you are doing to use a candle, do not leave it unattended.
- Do not leave burning candles within reach of children.
- Lighting a candle is not an option if you smell gas in your home.
- Place candles on fire-resistant surfaces, such as concrete or fire-rated glass.
- Remember that candles are a fire hazard and you should use battery operated flashlights and other similar light sources.
Water and Mold
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Home
Did you know that mold can grow in your carpeting within 24 hours of a water damage occurring? Did you think that drying you carpets with fans would fix the problem? We’re sorry to deliver the bad news, but this will not keep mold from taking over your carpet fibers. Don’t worry! Give us a call, and we can take this problem off your hands. Mold can cause mycotoxins and lead to health effects, so it should be addressed right away. We will do an assessment of the affected area and contain the mold growth. Next, we will filter the air and remove any materials contaminated with mold. Finally we will clean your affected house content and restore them! See! There’s nothing to worry about, if you just give us a call.
Covid Safety Clean Up
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Spray
Has someone in your office tested positive for COVID-19? Are you worried that your employees will also contract the virus through touching infected surfaces at your work place? We understand how stressful this situation can be. As a matter of fact, we have helped many other business owners and managers solve this problem in the Rio Grande Valley. Contact us and we can have every foot of your work place meticulously cleaned and disinfected in accordance with the CDC’s guidelines today! We understand that it is your responsibility to put the health of your employees and customers first. Do your part by hiring our team of highly trained technicians to provide you with the best quality service delivered in a timely manner, so that you and your team can get back to work!
Restaurant Cleaning
3/15/2021 (Permalink)
Restaurant
How long has it been since you had your restaurant kitchen exhaust system cleaned? Did you know that not only is a dirty restaurant hood a fire hazard, but the heat and moisture make an ideal environment for bacteria and mold to grow? As a restaurant owner or manager we understand how your primary concern is for your employees and customers to dine in a safe and healthy environment. We can provide the service to make this possible for you! We have the specialized chemicals, equipment, and certified technicians to get your restaurant to meet fire safety regulations. Call us at (956) 277-0645 and we can send a specialist to you at a time that is most convenient for you. It’s that easy, "Like it never even happened."
Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
12/15/2020 (Permalink)
Air Ducts and HVAC Cleaning
Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your home or business.
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Odors
- Dirt and debris
- Other contaminants
SERVPRO of Harlingen / San Benito Professionals routinely inspect the heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping them clean can extend the life of the equipment. This can in turn save you money and give you cleaner air to breathe.
However, duct cleaning is not always necessary. We will make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This can save you money and provide peace of mind on the health of your system.
The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:
- Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
- May help to eliminate offensive odors.
- Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.
For more information on HVAC and air duct cleaning, call us today, (956) 277-0645.
24/7/365
12/15/2020 (Permalink)
24/7/365
As the weather outside gets frightful and your cozy homes become warm and delightful, the holiday season's aglow, let it snow, let it snow let it snow. According to climate.gov, on February 12, 2010, there was snow present in all 50 states, including Hawaii! Five years later in 2015, its almost happened again, when every state but Florida experienced snow. While it is generally unlikely for certain states to encounter snow, it is still important to know how to be prepared if winter weather strikes at your home, business or while traveling. SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito is dedicated to helping you keep the holidays merry and bright, and keeping your property safe. But what happens if disaster does strike during the most wonderful time of the year? Easy, Call SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito even if it is the night before Christmas. SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of the year, ready when you need help the most.
Christmas Fire Safety
12/11/2020 (Permalink)
Christmas Fire Safety
The Christmas holiday season is a time of year that we should be spending with family and spreading joy to all of our loved ones. During this time of year it may be easy to overlook some of the fire hazards that come along with the decorations of the season.
The NFPA. estimates an average of 230 American homes are damaged each year by fires caused by ignited Christmas trees. Another 150 home structure fires are caused by line voltage decorative lights. Together these fires cause an average of 15 deaths, 38 injuries and $26.7 million dollars in property damage each year! These sobering figures cannot be ignored and safety precautions need to be taken to help ensure you and your loved ones have a safe and enjoyable holiday season without the fire alarm going off.
Here are some great tips we would like to pass your way to help you keep your holiday fire free.
- When choosing a tree be sure to pick one that is a fresh as possible. Look to see your tree has green, semi-pliable needles. Dry needles have a much higher possibility of catching fire. Cutting down the tree yourself is the best way to ensure its freshness.
- If you have an artificial tree be sure it is labeled Fire Retardant by the manufacturer. While having a real tree might bring a sense of holiday authenticity, the simple fact of the matter is that artificial trees are much less likely to catch fire.
- Before putting your real tree in a stand be sure to cut off at least 2 to 3 inches of the base to expose some fresh wood. This will allow the tree to stay moist and prevent drying gout. Be sure to check the water level of the tree every day. A real Christmas tree will be very thirsty in the dry winter months.
- Choose where you place your tree wisely. Never place your tree near any heat source like a fireplace, radiator, heating vents, hot water heater, hot lights or candles. And of course never place your tree in front of any exit. In case of a fire you want to make sure you have a clear path to get out of the house. Another suggestion is to place your tree somewhere that the tree cannot be knocked over by the family pet or playing children into a heat source.
- When choosing lights for your tree and extension cords be sure that they are rated properly by an independent testing laboratory and are UL-listed. Some lights are intended for indoor or outdoor use only. Today’s LED lights are a great choice as they do not create any heat. We hope it should go without saying, but never use real candles to light up your tree. This is an old tradition before electric lights were invented and we highly suggest you do not attempt this.
- Once you have your new lights selected or have pulled out the lights from storage, be sure to check them well for any loose bulbs or damaged wires. If you can replace the bulbs be sure to unplug them before doing so to avoid any shock. If the wires or plugs are defective, replace the entire string. Don’t risk a fire due to an electrical issue as this is the number one reason trees ignite.
- When you are ready to plug in your lights, be sure not to overload any one circuit. Plug a maximum of 3 light strings together. If you are using LED lights, consult the manufacturer’s suggestion on how many strings you can safely plug into each other to create one chain. It is highly suggested that you plug all lights into a surge outlet protector instead of directly into a wall outlet. Lastly, always remember to shut off the lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
- If you will be decorating the outside of your home than be sure to choose lights that are intended for outdoor use. Using indoor lights that are not designed to be used for outside weather can result in them shorting out or even worse. Don’t run the risk of electrical shock or a fire hazard by using indoor lights outside. If you are unsure if your lights are safe for outdoor use than look for the color-coded UL logo on the packaging. A green logo is only safe for indoor use while the red logo can be used inside or outdoors safely. The same safety precautions need to be taken with any extension cords that are being used.
- Once the festivities are over and the holiday has come and gone you are better off taking the tree down as soon as possible. Real trees do not last that long and the needles will quickly begin to dry out making them a fire hazard. The majority of fires involving Christmas trees happen after the holiday and not before. It is also suggested that you remove outdoor lighting immediately after the holiday to reduce any risk of fire and to help preserve the life of your outdoor lights.
Christmas Tree Safety Checklist
12/11/2020 (Permalink)
Christmas Tree Safety Checklist
My Christmas Fire Safety Checklist
1. Fire Safety for Artificial Trees?
This appears to be the safest choice, as long as it’s UL-listed. Artificial trees can still catch fire, especially if candles are involved, so look for one that is “flame resistant” or “flame retardant.”
2. Fire Safety for a Fresh Tree?
The fresher, the safer. It’s got more natural moisture that way. So check out the needles… if they snap or fall off easily, the tree is too dry. When you get it home, cut 2 inches off the bottom of the trunk and place it in the tree stand with plenty of water. It’ll need about a gallon of water every couple of days, but it will probably need extra water in the first day or two. Studies show that a dry tree is likely to catch fire unintentionally, but one that is kept watered is very unlikely to do so.
3. Where You Place Your Tree Matters
For optimal fire safety, place your tree strategically away from heat sources like candles, space heaters, vents, radiators and fire places — and don’t block stairways or exits! (PSST – And don’t forget about candle safety! Candles are apparently a major culprit around the holidays.)
4. What about Christmas Tree Lights?
Again, UL-listed is the way to go. That’s the independent testing organization that makes sure lights are safe. Look for the label!
Be sure to pay attention to whether your lights are for indoor or outdoor use. (It matters.)
LED lights rock. They don’t get as hot, and the plastic casing is less likely to break than a glass bulb. They last longer and are more energy efficient, too!
5. Check Your Decor for Damage.
Electrical problems cause about 1/3 of Christmas tree fires. So check last year’s decor for damage — a squirrel in the attic eating through the wire, for example. Outdoor lights might wear out more quickly from season to season, so check for damage there, too…. loose bulb sockets, damaged wires or plugs. Those are a no-no.
6. Don’t Overload Your Sockets!
Many manufacturers will tell you how many lights you can string together, but a good rule of thumb is a maximum of 3 strands. So don’t overload a socket or extension cord, even if you use a surge protector.
7. Turn Your Lights Off When Unattended.
That means before leaving the house or going to bed. You don’t want lights left on to cause a problem when you’re not around to act fast. And if you use a remote switch or foot switch, they can be less of a hassle to turn off. Bonus!
8. Dispose of Your Live Tree Soon!
Now hear this: After Christmas is over, have a good cry and then recycle your live tree soon. This was the most surprising thing I found: A 2013 report from the National Fire Protection Association shows that HALF of Christmas tree fires occur in the 20 days AFTER Christmas. Even a well-watered tree should be taken down after 4 weeks, according to the NFPA. So if you put your life tree up right after Thanksgiving, take it down right after Christmas… not on New Year’s Day.
It also goes worth saying that about 20% of these after-Christmas fires were set intentionally, as a method of disposing the tree… but then the fire spread to the house. So dispose of the tree properly — recycle it! — when its needles are falling off. Don’t go into post-Christmas denial!
While we’re on the topic of un-decorating (Is that a word? It is now.), removing your outdoor lights sooner will help them last longer and stay usable next season! Hit the after-Christmas sales to replace your worn-out decorations for a fraction of the price. And who doesn’t love a good deal?
Document Drying & Restoration
12/1/2020 (Permalink)
Document Drying & Restoration
Vacuum freeze drying is the most efficient and effective way to salvage water damaged documents. The document restoration team uses sublimation turning a solid directly into vapor, skipping the liquid stage to avoid causing more damage to the documents.
The state of the art technology used by SERVPRO technicians is the only method approved by National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and General Services Administration (GSA).
Other methods such as dehumidification can alter the structure of the paper's fibers causing them to become more brittle. All employees of the Document Restoration Team are HIPAA Master Certified. Once your items arrived at the SERVPRO facility, 24/7 video surveillance is guaranteed.
SERVPRO's goal is to make the process as simple as possible for our customers.
Faster to any damage
12/1/2020 (Permalink)
Faster to any damage
Historically files that are closed faster usually result in lower cost. The longer the file remains open, the more opportunity for problems and expenses to rise. The faster a mitigation or remediation project is completed, the faster you can regain control of your life.
Moisture control is the key to mold control. When water leaks or spills occur indoors, act promptly. A prompt response within 24/48 hours and a thorough clean-up, drying, and/or removal of water damaged materials will prevent or limit growth.
When you call SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito a trained uniformed professional will arrive at your property with the equipment necessary to help protect the structure and contents. We will provided a detailed estimate that clearly lists all services to be performed. There are no unwelcome surprises with SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito. Your concerns will be addressed quickly and professionally to help them begin the process of regaining control of your life.
Safety First Before the Feast
11/10/2020 (Permalink)
Safety First
Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast, but if you don't practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could quickly become hazardous in a blink of an eye. According to NEPA cooking in the main cause of home fires and injuries with the Thanksgiving holidays being the peak day for cooking related fire. Review the following safety tips to help ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while kitchen equipment is in use.
- Keep small children away from cooking area. Enforce a kid free zone.
- Keep anything flammable away from the stove, oven, or other appliances in the kitchen that generates heat.
- Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
- Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen year round.
- Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen, on each level of the home, near sleeping areas, and inside and outside of bedrooms.
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving and holiday season.
Choosing the Appropriate Fire Extinguisher
11/10/2020 (Permalink)
Choosing the Appropriate Fire Extinguisher
- Class A: This is the most common extinguisher and can be used to put out fires in ordinary combustibles such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.
- Class B: Use on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, and oil.
- Class C: Designed for fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment electronically energized or plugged in.
- Class D: For use on flammable metals; often specific for type of metal in question. These are typically found in factories.
- Class K: Intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. Generally found in commercial kitchens.
For more info feel free to call us SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito at 956-277-0645
Fire Precautions During this Holiday Season
11/10/2020 (Permalink)
Fire Precautions During this Holiday Season
Did you know cooking equipment is the leading cause of residential fires? As the holiday season begins and you find yourself in the kitchen more often while hosting friends and family, fire precautions should be top of mind.
A property owner experiences a flood of emotions when a fire ravages their business or home. Fear, uncertainty, stress, and doubt about the future of the property and their livelihood can be overwhelming to the property owner long after the flames have been extinguished and the smoke has clear. After the first wave of heroes have rescued the property, let SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito help you restore it to its preloss condition. Combining rapid response, the utmost professionalism, and open communication throughout the entire job process, we strive to restore not only the home or business structure, but the customer's peace of mind as well.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers the following eye-opening statistics on structure fires: more then one quarter of reported fires occurred in homes within the last year. Even worse 79% of fire related deaths were caused by home fires. On average, U.S. fire department respond to an estimated average of 354,400 home structure fires per year resulting in $6.9 billion in direct property damage. Most home fires and fire casualties result from five causes: cooking, heating, electrical distribution and lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials.
If the unthinkable happens and a fire strikes your home or business, give the expert at SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito a call at 956-277-0645. We will help make it "Like it never even happened."
Breast Cancer Awareness
11/3/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito Wear pink is support of Breast Cancer Awareness
Our team at SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito works to help education and Spread breast cancer awareness.
Breast Cancer Awareness Facts:
Breast cancer is one of the most common and well known cancers diagnosed in the United States.
Occurs in BOTH men and women, but is more common in women.
In 2020, is it estimated that 276,480 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in women.
Most breast cancers are found in women older than 50, but 10% are found in women younger than 45.
With increased awareness and research, there are many advances in how to treat breast cancer.
Early detection is key because there are more treatment options available, increased survival, and improved quality of life
Our team encourages you to ask questions and learn about breast cancer!
Building Relationships
11/3/2020 (Permalink)
Building a stronger and healthier Rio Grande Valley
At SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito, our goal is to build relationships in our community. We go out of our way to go talk to our community to be strong and healthy and to get routine checkups. Our goal is to be active in our community and to help build a stronger and healthier Rio Grande Valley. Our team encourages you to ask questions and learn about breast cancer. It is important to ask your doctor about risks, be screened, and if needed, implement a prevention plan that works for you.
Happy Halloween
11/3/2020 (Permalink)
Happy Halloween from SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito!
Happy Halloween from SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito! We hope you have a safe Halloween with your family. We are thankful to be able to serve you and your businesses in whatever scary situation that may come up. We are here to make it "Like it never even happened."
Be Storm Smart
7/8/2020 (Permalink)
Be Storm Smart
Floods are the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United State. Whether your home or Business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert there is always a potential for flood damage. The American Red Cross offers the following flood safety tips.
1. Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where the water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way.
2. If you approach a flooded road while driving , turn around go another way,. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and move to higher ground.
3. Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
If a flood does strike call SERVPRO Harlingen & San Benito. Floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure, when not treated quickly and properly and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. We are always here to help no matter the size of the disaster.
When Flood Water Rise!
7/6/2020 (Permalink)
When Flood Water Rise!
Flooding is always possible. Listen to wather radio, commercial radio, or TV for information.
Flash Flood Watch:
Flash Flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground: listen to wather radio, commercial radio, or Tv for information.
Flood Warning
Flooding is occurring or will occur soon: if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Flash Flood Warning
A flash flood is occurring: seek higher ground on foot immediately.
Flood Strikes Eveerywhere!
Flood ranks as one the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United State. Whether you live near a coastline, along city streets ,in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert, there there is a potential for suffering flood damage. In Fact , nearly 25% of last year claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), were policy in moderate to low risk communitites. According to NFIP, houses in the United State have a 26% chance of being damaged by flood during the course of a 30 year mortgage, while business face similar risks by flooding. On Average flood cost $6 billion in annual losses in the U.S. The following are a few more little known flood facts:
Flood kills an average of 140 people per year in the U.S. making flooding the most deadly natural disaster. More than half of all Fatalities during floods are auto related, often the result of drivers misjudging the depth of water on a road and being swept away in a swiftly moving current. The principle causes of floods in the eastern United State are hurricanes and storms The principle cause of flood in the western United States are snow melt and rainstorm!
SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito values our community; we are here to help when disaster strikes! Call Us at (956)277-0645 or visit our website for more information at https://www.SERVPROharlingensanbenito.com/
SERVPRO's Support
6/30/2020 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO we understand that a family makes a home, but a home keeps them safe. We are here to help keep you safe from illnesses by cleaning the mold in your home, removing the soot after fires, and keeping your home in tip top shape so that if the worst comes you're safe and can focus on what really matters, each other. During this time it’s important to keep one another safe, our preventative cleaning can do just that for you. At SERVPRO we believe that family comes first and your safety is our top priority, with our consultation and guidance we'll make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO HISTORY
6/26/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO HISTORY
Founded in 1967, SERVPRO Industries Inc. is an international leader of fire, water, mold and other specialty cleanup and restoration services. SERVPRO's professional network of more than 1,700 franchises has responded to property damage to emergencies of multi-million dollar disasters.
SERVPRO Mission Statement.
" To develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness and mutual respect."
Timely Mitigation is the key to minimizing damage, business interruptions and recovery cost. You and those who depend on you will appreciate the rapid response, expertise and training that enables SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito to help you get your home or facility back into operation quickly.
SERVPRO is the only mitigation company with national advertising. You know us and trust us. A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito professional will walk you through the job process and then work quickly to restore your property to preloss condition! We have earned the trust of the insurance industry by serving thousands of policy holders and clients with respect and integrity. The more we restore, the less that's needs to be replaced. This helps our clients save millions of dollar each year.
Call us SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito at (956)277-0645
Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Loss
6/22/2020 (Permalink)
Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Loss
Flooding and water damage events in the Rio Grande Valley are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Wheather we're dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale events , we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damage area. In many instances , normal operations can continue in a temporary spaces while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our Professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damage area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need!
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in the property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's corporate training facility to regular IICRC industry certifcation, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Let us help you get back to business
6/17/2020 (Permalink)
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.
Extensive training and specialized products
As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.
From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.
3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify
When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.
Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials. In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.
Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.
Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation
We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.
Call SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito today at (956)277-0645 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.
* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.
Toilet Overflow
6/11/2020 (Permalink)
What to do when your toilet overflows
Common toilet problems and plumbing issues can lead to water damage in a business. Over time, plumbing issues can cause quite a bit of problems if not maintained regularly. By taking care of toilet issues as soon as possible plumbing problems occur is the best way to prevent further related water damage. If this is not taken care immediately costly repairs may appear. The following may cause toilets to overflow in your business:
A drain line becomes clogged
• The septic field is not percolating
• Sewer damage occurs somewhere in the system’s lines due to issues such as tree roots or foreign objects causing a clog
• A low flow toilet is not able to handle the demands of your household
• The trap between the drain line and the toilet bowl becomes blocked
If you were to experience a toilet overflow in your business, it is best to dry up the accumulated water in the affected areas. However, depending on the extent of the leak caused by a toilet overflow, consider calling a company that specializes in restoration. Here at SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito , we provide appropriate safety measures and steps during the cleanup process and will restore your business or home quickly!
Call Us at 956-277-0645
Serving the Rio Grande Valley
6/11/2020 (Permalink)
Rio Grande Valley
SERVPRO of Harlingen / San Benito is a trusted leader in the restoration industry, and our highly trained technicians provide 24-hour emergency service. We’re dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster with the best training, equipment, and experience.
Whether it’s a burst water line in San Juan or fire damage in Weslaco, SERVPRO is the number one choice for all your restoration and reconstruction needs.
We can take damage from any disaster and make it "Like it never even happened."
As residents of the Rio Grande Valley, we’ve seen time after time the strong tradition of neighborly love and assistance. SERVPRO of Harlingen / San Benito wants to fall in line with the same principles that make our community here in the RGV strong and resourceful.
Always ready at a moment’s notice for whatever situation arises:
Water
Fire
Mold
Residential or Commercial
Rain or shine, we’re ready with neighborly assistance.
24-Hour Emergency Service
Faster to Any Size Disaster
Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
Locally Owned and Operated
Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Call Us At (956)277-0645
Storm Preparation
6/9/2020 (Permalink)
These are the kinds of markings that show mold on walls.
What is storm season and what's the big deal? As new homeowners will soon learn that storm season is more than harsh rain and strong winds. During this time homes are destroyed or slightly damaged leading to major damage later on. This is important to keep in mind when buying or selling a home. Many homes after storm season go through mold. This can occur due to badly patched up leaks, outside/indoor flooding, and even old carpet that should have been replaced. Signs for this are looking at the walls to see if there are any marks, or if the ceilings are showing air bubbles, or marks similar to the ones on the walls. SERVPRO can fix these things, and help you sell or live in your new home safely.
First Storm Season
6/9/2020 (Permalink)
Leaks
Handling your first storm is very stressful, especially if you're in your twenties and have just started living on your own. Some of you are in college, some are living alone, some have roommates. It’s a lot and how do you prepare for something you know nothing about, well it’s simply starting off with gathering the essentials and controlling what you can before the storm hits. Boarding up your windows is important for very serious storms such as hurricanes or tornadoes. However if you are going through the beginning of storm season you’ll most likely have heavy rain and strong winds, which can still lead to damage. Prepare by checking for any open areas such as a crack in a wall, or a door that lets in water. Now a quick fix would be applying a towel during the storm to prevent further damage, or applying putty before the storm to keep water from entering. After the storm, call us and we will inspect the home for any further damage and will take care of the open areas and/or leaks.
Reduce Your Recovery Time.
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO Commercial Cleaning.
When fire, water or mold damage strikes a commercial facility, it has a negative impact on everyone - the owner, the management team, employees, tenants and even customers. Even small fire or water damages must be addressed quickly in order to limit secondary damage and to lessen business interruption.
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito Professional understands the urgency in responding to your facility following a disaster. By arriving quickly, mitigating damage to the structure and contents, and providing effective cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito Professionals will help you reopen the doors as soon as possible.
Is your business in need of our services? If not, you never know when disaster might strike. Be prepared and discuss your options and resources with a SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito representative. Call us At 956-277-0645
Summer fire tips
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
Fire Tips
Summer is a time to enjoy the great outdoors, but it is also important to keep safety in mind. Consider the following tips, provided by the National Fire Protection Association, to keep your family safe all summer long.
When using a charcoal grill, only use starter fluids designed for barbeque grills; DO NOT use gas, diesel or any other types of flammable fluids.
When using a gas grill, ensure the hose connection is tight and check the hoses for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
When camping, always use a flame retardant tent and set up camp far away from the camp fire.
Always build a campfire downwind from the tent area. Clear vegetation and dig a pit before building your fire. Always extinguish the fire before going to sleep or leaving the campsite.
Store liquid fire starter (not gasoline) away from your tent and campfire. Only use dry kindling to freshen a campfire.
Here at SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito we hope you are a happy and safe summer!
Five Safety Tips To Prevent A Dryer Fire
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
Prevent Clothing Dryer Fire.
A clothes dryer is common and convenient household appliance, but it can be dangerous if not properly maintained. Not only can the dryer break and need replacing, but it can also cause a lint fire. Follow these safety tips to help prevent any emergency situations.
1. Have your dryer professionally installed
Having your dryer installed by a qualified professional can put you on the right path to keeping your home safe. They can make sure that everything is installed correctly and working as it should, preventing any potential safety hazards.
2. Clean the lint filter and dryer vent regularly
The most common cause of dryer fire is not keeping the unit clean. You should remove lint from the filter before and after each use . Lint can also build up in the back of the dryer, so be sure to clean that area as well. The dryer vents should be cleaned at least every three months to prevent blockages.
3. Have the Dryer serviced regularly
It is a good idea to have your dryer serviced on a regular basis. Hiring a professional to clean and inspect the appliance at least once a year can help minimize any problems and keep the unit safe to use.
4. Keep Flammable items away from the dryer
A lint fire is not the only kind of fire that can occur when using your dryer. If a flammable liquid has been spilled on an item, you should never put it in the dryer. Be sure to keep any flammable materials away from the surrounding areas as well.
5. Make sure the dryer is off before you leave the house
If you are leaving your home or going to sleep , make sure that you turn the dryer off beforehand. If a fire were to start while the unit was unattended, it could spread and cause a lot of damage before you were aware of it.
Here at SERVPRO Harlingen & San Benito we are fire remediation specialists to help you in case of a lint fire, but keeping your dryer cleaned and properly maintained can help keep you and your unit safe.
Call us at (956)277-0645 or visit our website at https://www.SERVPROharlingensanbenito.com/
Hurricane Season 2020
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
Hurricane Safety.
2020's hurricane season is approaching, and researchers said they think this year will be especially active. The season officially begins on June 1 and runs through Nov. 30.
Scientists at Penn State University's Earth System Science Center project the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season as the busiest in a decade. They say a combination of warm sea surface temperatures and other factors could result in the development of more named tropical cyclones than usual.
A tropical cyclone gets a name when it reaches tropical storm strength, with winds in excess of 39 mph.
The Penn State scientists said their best guess is 20 named storms this year. In a range, they're going with 15-24 storms total.
In 2016, they projected 19 named storms that season (15 was the actual count) and in 2010, their forecast was 23 (19 as the actual count). The past three years -- 2017, 2018 and 2019 -- were especially active, and scientists' guesses on the number of named storms were lower than what occurred.
Sea surface temperatures are one of the main drivers of the development of tropical cyclones, and that can be checked off the list already this year. Why? Surface waters in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean were above normal for the month of March and continue to tick a degree or two above average this April.
The Gulf of Mexico is especially warm right now. Despite its smaller size, compared to the wide-open Atlantic, storms that can make their way into a favorable area for development in the gulf can strengthen in a hurry.
Whether it’s a major storm event, or faulty appliance, SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito will be there , we are just a call away (956)277-0645 or visit our website at https://www.SERVPROharlingensanbenito.com/
Flood Safety Tips
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
Flood Safety Tips
It's common to see a storm with heavy down pours of rain causing flooding in the most protected neighborhoods. Do you know what to do during a flood? SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito has a few tips for you to follow in case an event was to happen:
Be prepared, created an evacuation plan
Learn and identify different evacuation route to be able to evacuate quickly
If public transportation is relied on, contact the local emergency management for evacuation information.
Turn Around, Don't Drown! Moving water above two feet can knock you down, one foot of water can move vehicles away.
Move to higher ground if there is a chance of flash flooding.
If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them for safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
If trapped in a building, then go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Go on the roof only if necessary. Once there, signal for help.
Be Safe After
Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
Avoid driving, except in emergencies.
Snakes and other animals may be in your house. Wear heavy gloves and boots during cleanup.
Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do Not touch electrical if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.
Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris and contaminated. Underground or down power lines can also electrically charge the water.
Use a generator or other gasoline powered machinery. Only outdoors and away from windows.
Driving during high rain falls can be extremely dangerous. Stay updated by checking service announcements through the National Weather Service.
For more information about flooding visit https://www.ready.gov/floods. Be proactive and create an evacuation plan to keep safe. It is very important to stay up to date when it comes to natural disasters. SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito values our community, we are here to help when disaster strikes!
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito specialized in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a flood or water damage event. Our Staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. Call us At (956)277-0645
Minimizes Further Damage
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
What to do after a water loss?
Knowing the correct steps to take after a water loss can help you reduce the loss. Timing is so important when restoring your property. SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito is a certificated restoration service provider in the Rio Grande Valley.
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito has the specialized drying equipment to address any water damage. Our SERVPRO technicians are well equipped and trained to use air movers, scrubbers, and dehumidifiers when restoring your property.
Many things can happen by leaving the excess moisture in place for a long time. Apart from the possibility of making your contents unsalvageable, it may promote the growth of mold that may cause health effects. SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito team uses dehumidifiers to reduce the levels of moisture in the air.By doing this we make the humidity levels acceptable and create room for evaporation.
If there are odors and particles in the air. SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito will place air scrubbers to remove those odors and particles.
Deodorization is also another way to combat the unpleasant smells. Deodorization is use to neutralize and mask the unpleasant odors.
No matter how small or how big your water damage is rest assure SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito has the right equipment to do the job!
Roof Leak
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
Roof Leak
After dealing with a cold winter, some of us are looking upon the spring season. As spring has approached us the weather has been warmer and the trees and flowers have begun to bloom, However, springtime always seems to bring plenty of rain and plenty of rain always brings a higher risk of water damage to your home.
With the increase of showers as well as high winds, roof damage may occur or be revealed as water intrudes through your roof and damages your ceilings and walls. To reduce the risk of roof leaks, you should inspect your roof for any damages from the winter and inspect it after every major storm.
The most common cause of roof leaks is a damaged or missing shingle from storms or fallen branches. If you do experience water damage inside your home from the ceiling or wall, you will want to contact a professional from SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito to inspect the damage, remove the water, and remediate the damage.
Call SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito at 956-277-0645.
Here in Your Community. Here to Help.
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
Give us a call!
During uncertain times, SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito is prepared to help you when it matters most.
Responding during difficult times is what we do, it’s who we are and what we know. Right now, during this most unprecedented moment we share with you, we continue to answer the calls of our neighbors who need us most.
Our business remains open to you as our employees and services are essential during this coronavirus pandemic. If your home or business is in need of cleaning and sanitizing, or any of our core water and fire services, give SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito a call at 956-277-0645 . We are here and ready to serve.
We Are Cleaning Experts
6/5/2020 (Permalink)
Cleaning Experts.
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito is here to help during this time of need
During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of the coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.
Specialized Training:
We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Center for Disease and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.
The CDC encourages cleaning of high touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches. bathroom fixtures. toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables.
1. Kitchen/Food Areas
2. Bathrooms
3. Schools/Classroom
4. Offices
5. Retail Spaces
6. Water Fountains
7. Shelving/Racks
8. Sales Counters
9. Carpets and rugs
10. Stair handrails
11. Elevator Cars
12. Playground equipment
13. Fitness Equipment
Specialized Products
The CDC recommends usages of a labeled hospital grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain if the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.
Call Today For A Proactive Cleaning
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito At (956)277-0645
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html
Commercial Cleaning Services
4/22/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito professionals are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We are here to help get your business back to normal. SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis. The CDC encourages cleaning of high touch surfaces, such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables.
- Keeping the Workplace Safe. Encourage your employees to practice good hygiene. 1. Stop shaking hands. 2. Clean hands with sanitizer or wash their hands frequently. 3. Avoid touching their faces and cover coughs and sneezes.
- 4. Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, desks, and handrails regularly. 5. Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning.
Fire Extinguishers
4/22/2020 (Permalink)
Learn about fire extinguishers!
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito wants to keep you safe and we know that little problems can become major issues in the future. When it comes to accidents in our home, or work space many don’t realize they are unprepared till it’s too late. So the more information to prepare you for an on site crisis the better! When it comes to fires many don’t really know how to use a fire extinguisher, or that there's actually four classes of extinguishers. A class is used to aid in putting out ordinary combustibles. Class B is used for flammable liquids (oil, grease, etc.). Class C is for electrically energized fires. Finally class D is suited for flammable metals. To remember how to work an extinguisher think of the P.A.S.S. method. Pull the pin, Aim low, Squeeze the hand;e, then Sweep the nozzle from side to side.
Fire Alarms
4/22/2020 (Permalink)
Learn about fire alarms!
Fire Alarm systems are a key essential to our everyday safety. Just as you would charge your phone keeping up with the maintenance of your fire alarm is substantial for everyday safety. Fire Alarms work by detecting levels of heat and/or smoke, smoke particles pass through the optical detector and trigger the alarm. Fire alarms need to be checked monthly, and depending on the model should be replaced every ten years. The time you change your battery depends on the model and battery compatible. Smoke alarms generally use nine volt batteries and need to be replaced every six months. This information is important to keep in mind and discuss when purchasing fire alarms for your environment. Stay safe and remember to check your fire alarms.
Water Leaks
3/17/2020 (Permalink)
Have a water leak? Call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito!
Undiscovered leaks and moisture can potentially build up and cause damage to the floors, walls and ceilings to your home or office, albeit the damage may go unnoticed for an extended period of time. Proper cleanup is important to the restoration of your home or work place. Here, at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito, we use Thermal Imaging equipment that can detect even the smallest amount of moisture in a home.Once the waterdamage is located, SERVPRO trained professionals can provide water extraction and drying services to help return the property to prelosscondition. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito specialists can help protect your property and belongings from further damage. Within one hour from notice of loss a SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange service. Within four hours of loss notification a SERVPRO professional will be onsite to start services. Within eight hours of onsite arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person.
Types of Smoke
3/17/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is here to help!
The following are types of smokes:
1. Wet Smoke. (Plastic and Rubber) Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky and smeary. Smoke webs are difficult to clean up
2. Dry smoke. (Paper and Wood) Fast burning, high temperatures: heat rises, therefore smoke rises.
3. Protein Fire Residue. (Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire) Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
4. Fuel Oil Soot. (Furnace Puff Backs) While "puffbacks" can create havoc for homeowners, SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito technicians can restore the contents and structure quickly.
5. Other Types. (Tear Gas, Fingerprint powder, and fire extinguisher residue) Special loss situations require special care.
SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Bentio can make it " Like it never even happened."
Call us At (956)277-0645
Ready to Help!
3/10/2020 (Permalink)
The aftermath of a storm can be catastrophic, but SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito is here to help.
It is common to see a storm with heavy down pours of rain causing flooding in the most places. Do you know what to do during a flood? SERVPRO Of Harlingen & San Benito has a few tips for you to follow in case an event was to happen:
Be prepared, create an evacuation plan.
Learn and identify different evacuation route.
Turn Around, Don't Drown! ® Moving water above two feet can knock you down; one foot of water can move vehicles away.
Move to higher ground if there is a chance of flash flooding.
Be proactive and create an evacuation plan to keep safe. It is very important to stay up date when it comes to natural disasters. SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito values our community; we are here to help when disaster strikes!
Clean Air means Healthy Lungs
3/10/2020 (Permalink)
Clean AC ducts can improve the environment and positively impact the health of those around you.
How does SERVPRO clean AC ducts? Well...
1. The process begins by using patented equipment, including a roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
2. Next a powerful push - pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a container.
3. Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.7% of the particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the indoor environment clean.
4. An optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
5. Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.
For more information on duct cleaning, Call Us SERVPRO Harlingen & San Benito at (956)277-0645. Remember we are here to help!
DOs and DON'Ts of Fire Damage
3/10/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/ San Benito can help!
A fire can leave behind soot, smoke damage and a host of other problems. Ceilings, walls, wood work, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough professional cleaning. If your home or business suffers a fire, it is important to take the appropriate steps to prevent further damage until SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito arrive. The following tips may help reduce damage and increase chances of successful restoration.
Do:
1. limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet
2. keep hands clean, soot on hands can further soil upholstery walls and woodwork.
3. place dry, colorfast towels or old linens rugs upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
4. Change HVAC filters and leave system off unitl a trained professional can check the system
Don't :
1. Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito.
2. Don't attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture.
3. Do not consume any food or beverages that may have been stored closed to the fire, heat, or water, as they may be contaminate.
4. Don't send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.
Understanding Water Types
3/10/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/ San Benito can help!
When your home or business suffers a water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup.
There are three types of water.
1. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water sources, rainwater is also considered clean.
2. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes grey water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and others contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous.
3.Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage. flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by a trained professional.
When you have a water damage don't leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito at (956)277-0645
What should you do when you suspect mold?
3/10/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito can help!
If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.
What to Do:
Stay out of affected areas.
Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
Contact SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito for mold remediation services.
What Not to Do:
Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.
About Our Mold Remediation Services
SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.
Does your work space have mold?
3/10/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito can help!
How should you manage mold?
Mold can cause dangerous and hazardous health effects, and can also even cause significant damage to your house or business property. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Harlingen & San Benito has the training, protective gear, specialized equipment, and experience necessary to handle your mold problem. Although every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, the general mold remediation process remains the same. Please review the following steps, which illustrate a typical mold removal process:
1. Firstly, call SERVPRO Harlingen & San Benito and we will handle the following.
2. We will conduct a damage assessment.
3. Mold containment
4. Air Filtration
5. We will remove mold and mold-infested materials.
6. We will clean contents and belongings.
7. We will successfully reach and complete restoration.
Be Storm Smart
3/10/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito can help!
Floods are the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United State. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert there is always a potential for flood damage. The American Red Cross offers the following flood safety tips.
1. Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where the water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way.
2. If you approach a flooded road while driving , turn around go another way,. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car and move to higher ground.
3. Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
If a flood does strike call SERVPRO Harlingen & San Benito. Floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure, when not treated quickly and properly and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. We are always here to help no matter the size of the disaster.
We build relationships!
12/19/2019 (Permalink)
Building friendships to strengthen our community.
Here at SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito we go out into the community and discuss how we can help our community be strong and healthy. Whether it be ecological health without nature center, or physical health, promoting prevention of diseases, such as cancer. Our goal is to be active in our community with you!
Happy Thanksgiving!
11/27/2019 (Permalink)
Team Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving from SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito! We hope you have a safe holiday break with your families. We are thankful to be able to serve our community and help restore your homes and/or businesses.
We support our local nature center, you should too!
11/26/2019 (Permalink)
Nature center fundraises money to support their conservation efforts!
SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito's team supports the conservation efforts of the Weslaco Nature Center. The "Brew in the Woods" community event fundraises money to support native wildlife and promote community awareness and education of Rio Grande Valley biodiversity and ecological health. It is actually home to many native species, such as the Texas Tortoise, Texas Coral Snake, and Blended water snake. Staff explains the dangers that hunting poses on species population and the ecological web as a whole. The center teaches children and community members about protecting the native environment from invasive species, as well as the implications of invasive species. The center works to fosters a great sense of community and support. We also encourage you to visit your local nature center!
Spreading Breast Cancer Awareness
11/19/2019 (Permalink)
La Feria firefighters wear pink with SERVPRO of Harlingen/ San Benito!
Our team at Harlingen/San Benito works to improve community health and spread education and awareness on health concerns. Our team would like to share some information on Breast Cancer in South Texas. Please feel free to share! UT Health Science Center states that there is an incidence of 104.1 cases of breast cancer per 100,000 women. Hispanic female population in South Texas have a higher incidence of breast cancer (83.5/100,000) compared to Hispanic female population in Texas. How can we help fight breast cancer and lower these rates? Our team encourages you to ask questions and learn about breast cancer. It is important to ask your doctor about risks, be screened, and if needed, implement a prevention plan that works for you.
2019 Hurricane Season Prep (Pt. 4)
7/8/2019 (Permalink)
Hurricane flooding Evac
Rey Luna – Sales & Marketing
(3-minute read)
This blog post concludes the 4th and final portion of our Top 20 Hurricane Prep Tips.
We’ve covered a lot about what to do in the first 3 portions (1-15), so for our final 5 points, I’d like to cover specifically what NOT TO DO during storm time.
Some of these should be fairly common sense, however, I have an uncle who’s done one of these, not just once, but twice! So, this one’s for you, Tio Ben! Lol.
Approaching downed power lines.
At first glance, one can say that this point is pretty obvious. True. If we see a broken line, I’m sure we’ll stay clear. But sometimes the damage is not so easily seen, and that can be extremely dangerous. As a rule of caution, DO NOT touch any large metal objects outside as they could be touching a power line that you may not be able to see.
Driving/walking in flood waters.
Again, another seemingly obvious point, but ask my aunt Linda how many times they’ve had to replace their car because my uncle thought he’d make it.
So, with that being said… let’s go over the reasons why.
Number 1 is easy! You can ruin your car!
Number 2 is a little more complex. You can’t see what’s lurking in the water. Maybe a dangerous animal or just as deadly… bacteria. You may have just recently shaved and left open pores on your skin leaving room for bacteria to enter. Or you may have a small cut, again allowing bacteria to enter. It’s very unfortunate to have to lose a limb to amputation from a severe staph infection because you couldn’t wait to take the proper precautions.
DO NOT Empty in-ground pools.
You may feel like this is a good idea because you’re trying to avoid the pool overflowing… BUT… with extreme rain, such as in a hurricane, the water table (amount of water held in the ground) can rise. And without water to hold down the pool, this can even put enough force for the pool to literally be pushed up out of the ground.
As I’ve been during research and looking at some of the other suggestions by other blogs, I’ve seen repeatedly the suggestion for using candles.
This has to be some of the worse advice for storm time. Especially if you have small children or pets that don’t really stay still. You’re already dealing with one disaster, the last thing you need is for a candle to be accidentally knocked over and start a fire.
Approaching wondering animals.
It seems like almost every day I see a growing amount of animal lovers. Which really warms my heart, honestly. But one thing to keep in mind at the end of the day, as much as we want to help our furry friends, sometimes they are not capable of reason and therefore are nervous and confused.
If you happen to come across an animal that you may feel needs assistance, call a professional. Do not approach a scared/nervous animal as they are more likely to show aggression rather than appreciate your help. Remember, they’re scared and possibly misplaced from home. They can and will bite if they feel uneasy.
This concludes our list of Top 20 Hurricane Prep tips.
We hope that we’re not faced with a major storm this year, but should unfortunate events transpire, know that SERVPRO has your back.
2019 Hurricane Season Prep Top 20 (Pt. 3)
7/1/2019 (Permalink)
One other thing to be sure to have on hand would be a camera. If the damage is significant, you may be having to file an insurance claim. If this is the case, then they would require photos of the damage done to your home. So, before any repair or clean up work is done, make sure to snap several photos to document anything that may need repairs.
We don’t want a repeat of the RGV Gas Shortage of 2017. It’s best to make sure you never go below a half-tank of gas in your vehicles. Top ‘em off as often as possible. You’re not actually spending more money on gas; you’re just replenishing as you go. This will make sure you’re always full and never caught off guard. If you have any gas drums or spare gas tanks, be sure to fill those up as well so that you have a backup supply. You never know when you or someone you know may need an emergency refill.
Something else to make sure you’re topping off every now and then is your on-hand cash supply. This is something that you don’t want to have too much of, as it can be difficult to keep track of and can be more of a risk. The needs of every family are different, but maybe just a couple hundred bucks would be useful to get you out of a bind or purchase last minute/emergency supplies is all that’s needed.
In the event of an emergency road trip, you’re going to want to make sure that your vehicle is running 100%. The last thing you want is another unexpected tragedy once you’re on the road away from home and away from friends or family that can help.
Be sure to have a means of communication in the event that cell phones are no longer an option. You may have figured out a way to keep them charged, but if cell towers have been disrupted or damaged, then we lose connectivity. 2-way radios could be an option for you or consider trying Bluetooth antennas. If you’re tech-savvy, this could be an interesting option for you.
One Year Anniversary of the Great June Flood of 2018
6/26/2019 (Permalink)
Drone Photo by the National Weather Service.
According to the National Weather Service, the damage caused by the rains brought on by severe thunderstorms last year could be compared to the damage brought on by Dolly in ‘08, the last major hurricane to hit our area.
As of June 25th, State of Emergency Declarations were issued for Cameron, Hidalgo and Willacy County.
Although the most affected area was Weslaco, other RGV cities were not immune.
Timeline breakdown
The following timeline provided by the Mid Valley Town Crier gives a breakdown of the weather events that happened last year.
June 15th & 16th - Meteorologists observe moisture moving across the Gulf of Mexico towards the RGV
June 18th - Pre-dawn storm drops 2-3 inches in Los Fresnos and Harlingen
June 19th - More than 12 in. fall over Duval, Jim Wells & Brooks counties
June 20th - Much of Weslaco became submerged after 16-18 in. of rain fell in less than 12 hours. Brownsville and Los Fresnos we also hit by more rain.
June 21st – Starr County arroyos overflowed their banks when more than 7 inches fell over Rio Grande City. McAllen had rainfall between 6 - 8 inches.
June 22nd - 3 more inches of rain topped of Los Fresnos once again and the McAllen/Mission area.
Damage
Mid-Valley Airport grounds reported 11.36 inches of rain in just 3 hours.
Similar situations were seen throughout the entire Valley… large amounts of rainfall in a very short period. That formula was perfect for overwhelming draining systems and causing mass overflows.
Most of the damage was in large part due to the failure or lack of current infrastructure. Plans were immediately made to improve drainage in the areas that were most affected.
In total, the damage counts amounted to
- 2500 homes
- 100+ businesses
- 2500 vehicles
Let's Prepare Now!
Hurricane Season has already begun. Spanning from June 1st to November 31st. This means we are to be on the watch for half the year. Plenty of time to prepare and not get caught off-guard.
Let’s take these learning experiences to heart and get ahead of the situation before it becomes a problem.
Should the worst arise, know that you have a neighbor in your pocket with all the resources imaginable to make it “Like it never even happened.”
Why hesitation leads to Mold Growth in the RGV.
6/18/2019 (Permalink)
A water loss from a faulty pipe can lead to mold if not handled properly.
Rey Luna - Sales & Marketing
(2-minute read)
Every day I walk into the office and pop in on our crew during their morning meeting to say, “Good morning” and every day, they’re responding to a new emergency.
SERVPRO professionals handle water damages on a daily basis and the most important thing to them is to take action as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.
Mold is likely to spread in an environment that has been subject to moisture for an extended period of time. If your property has sustained recent water damage, it is vital to extract any excess water/moisture and dry out the structure right away.
In an area like ours, down here in the RGV, quick action is especially critical. Since we have a warmer climate, combined with almost 100% humidity pretty frequently, it is crucial that we respond without any hesitation.
Here is a list of things to be on the watch for once you notice that there is moisture present:
- The presence of visible mold,
- Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
- Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
- Excessive humidity.
- Stagnant or “stale” air.
Certain conditions may even require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.
Now, after seeing just how much effort goes into mitigation work, it’s clear to see why these are situations that require special professional attention.
2019 Hurricane Season Top 20 PREP TIPS (pt. 1 of 4)
6/7/2019 (Permalink)
Get ready now! Don't wait until you have to!
Springtime is officially wrapped up here in the RGV and we bring in another HOT, HOT Summer. But along with the warmer weather is the higher risk of adverse conditions. Enter HURRICANE SEASON.
Every year we see the same suggestions and preparation steps needed to get ready.
However, instead of waiting until there’s an actual hurricane, there’s really no reason why these steps can’t be started ahead of time so that you’re not at the store looking for supplies with nothing but aisles and aisles of empty shelves.
Family/Household meeting:
This is where you’ll discuss your plan of action. Make sure everyone is aware of the evacuation routes just in case of the rare event that some become separated. It’s also a good idea to assign different roles and tasks to each person and make sure everyone is aware of the duties that are left in their care. Make plans to tackle the rest of the list together early during the summer so as to not be caught off guard. Perhaps setting aside a weekend together as a family to prepare the yard or go over inventory and supplies.
Supplies:
In your preparation, you should be sure to include any supplies or special gear you may need. Battery powered tools, chargers, and any necessary medications for your family and/or pets. Included in his list will be extra clothes, food (preferably non-perishable), first aid kits and anything else you think you’d need for at least a 1 week stay out of town if necessary.
Important documents:
Once out on the road, one can forget that there’s more than just tools and gear you might need. Special documents, cash, and other important information may be especially necessary. It’s important to keep these particular items safe because they are easily lost or damaged. To avoid this, pack a firebox or small fire safe along with your belongings. These are very inexpensive and are also waterproof most of the time. Take extra precaution by taking pictures of those documents so that you have a digital copy easily accessible on your phone or tablet.
Family pets:
Keep in mind the furry members of the family. Animals really can’t prepare like we can so they’re gonna need our help to stay safe. If you have your pets outside, you’ll have to make arrangement to temporarily house them inside and out of the elements. Just like humans, they need food, water and shelter. Make sure you pack an emergency kit for them as well. If you need to evacuate, then you’ll want to keep in mind that you’ll have extra companions. And no… the back of the pickup truck is not a very safe place for them to ride, unless they have a proper kennel secured in place.
Window covers:
Board up those windows early! Can’t stress this enough… prep supplies run out quickly once a storm is announced to be heading our way. Don’t wait! You don’t have to necessarily install everything now, but it’s a good idea to at least buy what you need, and have it set aside ready for when you do need it. There are many ways to go about prepping your windows. Plywood is effective and very cost effective, but, you’re definitely gonna need some help to get the job done. Hurricane Shutters are a nice addition to the home, they add appeal to your home and it’s a lot easier prep your home every year. But this method is more costly. However you chose to go about it, make sure it’s done well in advance!
Keep these tips in mind as you prep for the season and stay tuned for Parts 2, 3 and 4 coming soon!
2019 Hurricane Season TOP 20 PREP TIPS (pt. 2)
6/7/2019 (Permalink)
South Texas flooding.
Loose items in yard:
The reason for boarding up windows to protect your home from any flying debris that appears during storm time. We can further minimize damage to our property and others by taking the time to pick up and store any items that we may have laying out in the yard. Decorative ornaments, lawn statues or figurines and children’s or pet’s toys. Also be sure to wrap up any water hoses or pathway lighting. Taking these measures can prevent further damage to your property.
Insurance coverage:
Probably one of the most important things we can do to protect our properties is making sure that they’re properly covered with the correct insurance policies. A common misconception is that having Home-Owners Insurance alone is enough to cover your damages. However, in the event of a storm where heavy flooding is concerned, you will specifically need flood insurance. A separate policy from that of your home-owners insurance. There are plenty of great companies. Be sure to communicate your needs to your local agent and find what works best for you and your family.
Now, how relevant is this to our local community??? The RGV is not a traditional Mountain Valley. We are a River Valley. More than that… we actually sit on a flood plain. This is due to the fact that in older times, farmers didn’t have the irrigation systems we do now, so they would literally flood the fields with resacas fed from the Rio Grande and the Arroyos. Many of these fields no longer exist, and are now the subdivided neighborhoods we live in. So, yeah… we NEED flood insurance.
Evac route(s):
For us here in the RGV, travel is pretty simple. You go one way, you get to Upper Valley/McAllen area. You go the other way to head to the Island. During storm time though, that same simplicity makes things a little difficult. Because everyone will be evacuating at the same time, and there are basically only 2 ways to go, traffic can become an issue. Be sure to plan back-up routes just in case your first option is not safe or become too congested.
Make this a fun mini road trip for you and the family. Or if you just need a little get-away drive. Drive through different parts of town and get to know some of the outlying areas.
Loss of power/water:
If evacuation is not necessary and you and your family plan to ride it out at home, be ready to lose power and running water. In a situation like this it’s a good idea to store and gather as much water as you can. While still possible, prefill bathtubs and sinks for flushing toilets, cleaning and laundry. My neighbor has his rain gutters collecting water in large drums during storm time.
As far as power is concerned, you can only buy so many batteries. But you can store as much as you need to in small rechargeable power packs. These come in all kinds of sizes and are especially convenient when you need to recharge your cell phone, but they may also be able to power other small tools such as flashlights and small radios. Be sure to have these charging the moment you know a storm is heading our way and test them frequently throughout the year to ensure they function properly.
Turn off gas/ unplug small appliances:
In the event of a power surge, many of the electrical components in our appliances can be damaged. It’s important to use surge protectors and if need be, even disconnect the power to anything you may feel could be at risk. The last thing you’d want is to have power come back on only to realize that your items no longer work.
It is important to note, if you evacuate your home or business, DO NOT turn off your gas supply at the main meter. Only emergency or utility personnel should turn the valve on or off. You CAN turn off the gas for individual appliances at the appliance valve near each unit if you choose to do so. Most codes now require an appliance valve within six feet of each appliance.
This completes Part 2 of our Hurricane Preparation list. Stay tuned for Pt. 3 & 4!
10 SPRING CLEANING TIPS/IDEAS (Pt. 2)
6/3/2019 (Permalink)
6. Appliances: Yes… it’s easy to just sweep the floors you can see, but don’t forget about those hard to reach spots. This is probably easier with 2 people. Take your vacuum and be sure to get all around the refrigerator coils and beneath the fridge as well. This will help the fridge run better and put less stress on it which will help it last longer. Buying small plastic bins will help keep the contents inside neat, organized and help prevent things from spilling.
7. Clutter: Sell your unused items. This is a great way to not only clear up some space in your home, but also an easy way to make some spare cash! Try having a garage sale and parting with a few things you may not have any more use for. An easy rule to go by is that if you’ve had it stored for over a year and a half… chances are you really can do without it. With the power of the internet, it’s that much easier! Tons of useful apps and platforms allow you to list your items for sale with just a click of a button. Many of these you may have already heard of, but we’ll list a few platforms below.
- Facebook Marketplace
- Let Go
- Craig’s List
- Posh Mark
- Offer Up
- eBay
- Etsy
8. Décor upgrade: If you’ve followed tip number 7, you may have some space to spare in your home now. Adding a few small decorative items can really give your space a new look. The great thing about small décor pieces is that they are relatively cheap. *Hint- try the same apps mentioned above ??. Simple cosmetic upgrades can really transform your home and maybe even enhance your mood. Try a fresh coat of paint for an accent wall and you’ll have a total room makeover for about the same price as a nice dinner.
9. Don’t forget outside! With so much focus on the interior of the home, we don’t want to forget about that “curb appeal”. This is an area that can be handled at a low cost but may take some time. Keeping the yard nice and trim keeps your home looking great. A quick addition of mulch around trees and bushes give you a great traditional look for only about $3 dollars a bag. If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, try taking a trip over to your local flea market and seek out some patio furniture. You’ll be surprised at the items you’ll be able to find and the savings that go with it!
10. Relax! And Enjoy the “new” space! invite some friends or family over and take pride in your hard work! New additions and improvements to your home don’t have to cost a lot to get the result you desire. You’ll find that the more you keep up with your home, the more you’ll enjoy spending time there and so will friends and family.
10 SPRING CLEANING TIPS/IDEAS (Part 1)
5/9/2019 (Permalink)
Spring cleaning
We’re wrapping up another short-lived Spring Season here in the RGV. Summer’s here! Hello, triple digit weather!
We get home from a long day at work and rush out of the car and try to get into the house as quickly as possible to cool off. The last thing we want to come home to is a messy, cluttered house.
TOTAL MOOD KILLER!
Clutter can add more stress and anxiety to our busy lives. Having a clean, organized space can help you relax and feel more energized.
Here are 10 Tips from the Cleaning Pros here at SERVPRO to help you get organized and enjoy your time at home a little bit more:
- Schedule:
Pick out which days certain tasks are assigned. Sometimes we think of spring cleaning as a one time, single-day event. Because we know how much work it’s gonna be… we end up procrastinating.
Breaking down the tasks throughout the week can help make things a little more manageable. Set aside just 15 to 20 minutes a day and you’ll have everyone asking how you keep the house so clean all the time.
Having one day designated for a major cleanout is great, but it can quickly revert back to where you started without a proper maintenance schedule.
Below is a sample weekly schedule to help get things moving.
Monday: Dusting, sweeping- doesn’t seem like a very hard task, but when it’s the only task to focus on you’ll be surprised all the corners that get neglected. Don’t forget those baseboards!
Tuesday: Kitchen- dishes, clear up counter space to avoid clutter
Wednesday: Humpday! Maybe a good day to do the laundry now that we have momentum in the middle of the week.
Thursday: Bathrooms. Probably the most dreaded chore but you’ll find that the more you stick to the schedule, the lighter and lighter the cleaning becomes.
Friday: Moving into the weekend we suggest leaving your floors for this day. With all the foot traffic during the week, this is a perfect time to get ‘em done. Right before the weekend when you may have guests coming over.
Satur…. Pfff! Yeah right! TAKE THE WEEKENDS OFF! #TREATYOSELF #carnesazo
- Checklist:
We may be adults, but let’s be honest here… we forget things too. It’s easy to look around and see everything that needs to be done but having an actual written list of things to do helps you make sure you don’t skip anything. Plus, actually seeing checks next to all the things you’ve knocked out gives you a feeling of accomplishment and gives you a visual of the work that’s been finished.
- Supplies:
Having the right equipment can help get things done a lot faster and make things a lot easier. Don’t be afraid of spending a few dollars on gear. Getting that gadget you’ve always wanted might make you excited to use it and help you enjoy your housework.
- High Traffic Areas: It’s good to give special attention to areas that are used more frequently than others. Because these spaces see more use, they are more prone to harbor bacteria and germs. Make sure to disinfect and wipe them down. Some examples of those can be -
- Hallway baseboards
- Carpets (runners)
- Doorways
- Door handles
- Light switches
- Loose Power Cords:
This small task can make a huge difference in how your entertainment areas look. Having loose cords or hanging wires coming down from TVs, game systems, or other electronic can make a space seem messy even though it’s clean. A simple fix is to grab yourself some rubber bands or even better: zip ties. They’re super inexpensive and make a great way to neatly hide and tuck away all those cables.
Stay tuned in for Part 2 soon!
Weslaco Emergency Preparedness Meeting
6/1/2018 (Permalink)
On Wednesday, June 30, 2018, we at SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito were invited to the Weslaco Emergency Preparedness Meeting. At the meeting, there were speeches given by the Mayor, Commissioner, the head of the Office of Emergency Management, and Barry Goldsmith from the National Weather Service. During the breaks, the people in attendance would stop by our booth and we would inform them of what we at SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito can do in an emergency. We also informed the business owners about our free Emergency Readiness Plan (ERP) and made appointments to complete ERPs the following week. All in all, it was an amazing experience with the people of Weslaco and we can not wait to follow up with those wonderful business owners!
Storm Proofing
5/31/2018 (Permalink)
With the impending hurricane season, it is imperative that you have all your buildings ready for the possibility of a dangerous storm. You also want to make sure that your buildings have flood insurance, especially because it takes 30 days for it to kick in.
The following are ways that you can better prepare your home/business for a major storm.
- Hurricane film
- This specially made film can keep shards of window glass from getting into your home after the window has shattered.
- New windows
- Replacing your old windows with heavy-duty, wind-resistant windows can make a big difference when up against strong winds. Also, they can provide better insulation for your home, and might reduce your energy bill.
- Storm shutters
- These can be your best form of protection against high winds, they can also be taken off and reapplied every hurricane season.
- Skylights and tubular daylighting devices
- If you do have skylights in your home, it is best to upgrade the glass to strong, energy efficient glass that can protect your home against debris that the wind might throw.
- A tubular daylighting device disperses light throughout your home by means of reflective tubing and a rooftop dome. These can be especially helpful if you lose power.
- Doors
- Replacing your current door with a windstorm door is a necessity when preparing for a strong storm, as these FEMA approved doors can deal with pressure from 250 mph winds.
You can never be too safe when dealing with storms, and as the hurricane season is upon us, it is best to make sure your house is prepared for whatever mother nature throws our way.
Smoke and Soot Cleanup
5/29/2018 (Permalink)
Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.
Smoke and soot facts:
- Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
- Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
- The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.
Different Types of Smoke
There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:
Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber
- Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.
Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood
- Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore, smoke rises.
Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire
- Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor.
Our Fire Damage Restoration Services
Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage. We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 956-277-0645
Does Your Home Have a Mold Problem
5/29/2018 (Permalink)
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 956-277-0645
Conditions in the Rio Grande Valley are Just Right for Mold
5/29/2018 (Permalink)
It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.
If the right conditions exist, mold will grow. Those conditions include:
- Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.
- Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
- Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.
Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.
If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.
If you suspect mold, call us today at 956-277-0645
What to Do:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
- Contact SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito for mold remediation services.
Faster to Your Water Damage Event
5/29/2018 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito 24/7 – 956-277-0645
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito
SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Facing Fire Damage?
5/21/2018 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO Harlingen/San Benito, our technicians have a vast knowledge of what to do if your home or business is devastated by a fire. In fact, we are specialized in both fire and water damage restoration. Our excellent experience in cleaning and restoring facilities that have been faced with fire damage is unparalleled to any other company. We do everything from reviewing fire damage tips to caring for your belongings, carpet and upholstery cleaning, odor removal, and assessing commercial fire damage. We are available 24/7, a trusted leader in the restoration industry, and a preferred vendor for many national and local insurance companies. If you are facing fire damage, or just want to learn more about us here at SERVPRO Harlingen/San Benito, make sure to call us at (956) 277-0644, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SERVPROharlingensanbenito/.
Respond Fast When A Water Damage Occurs
5/14/2018 (Permalink)
Having a water damage can be super stressful most people don’t know what to do or who to call or how to deal with this. But one thing to remember when dealing with a water damage is that timing is key and that you need to act fast. Within a few minutes of a water damage happens the water migrates to other rooms of your home or business, odors from your carpets get released such as smoke or pet odors, as well as furniture staining carpets, and having all your paper items being destroyed. The longer you wait the more damage happens to your structure. Flooring can begin to bubble or buckle up, drywall will begin to disintegrate, and fungal growth can begin to appear and start to cause health problems. These are just a few things to keep in mind when a water damage occurs. So when you have a water damage that you don’t know what to do with give SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito a call we will assist you while talking to your insurance agent and adjuster, as well as respond quickly to get your structure to the way it was before.
Washing Machines
5/14/2018 (Permalink)
During the springtime, everyone likes to do a lot of spring cleaning. They vigorously clean the bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and well they try to clean their entire home. There are some things that we do out of habit that can make our homes back to the uncleanliness. Some of these habits that we do we wouldn’t even think about. Picture this a Saturday morning you are getting ready to have your cleaning day, and you start doing the laundry. Once you finished with all of your laundry what do you do to make the laundry to look nice is to close the door of the washing machine. As soon as you close the door to the washing machine without letting it dry, it starts to have fungal growth and get a particular smell that everyone knows as the wet dog. Just remember to leave your washing machine open for a little bit after you use it to make sure that it dries properly. SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito wants to let you know that we are here for you no matter what.
Water Damage Categories
4/9/2018 (Permalink)
Picture of a Category 3 Water Damage (Sewer Backup)
Did you know that there are different categories for a water leak/damage? There are three different categories of water leaks and damages: Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3. Category 1 (Clean Water) the water in this category is considered to be sanitary because of the source of the water a sanitary outlet. Some of the sources of a category 1 water damage is that of a broken water line, a tub or sink overflows, rainfall, or ice or snow melting. Even though the water is sanitary, with time it can start to harvest fungal growth and other microorganisms to grow and to make the water unsanitary making the water harmful to be around. Category 2 (Gray Water) is water that has microorganisms and food for the microorganisms. This water usually stems from toilet bowl overflows where there is urine but no feces, discharge from dishwasher and or washing machines, sump pump failures, and seepage due to hydrostatic pressure. Being around this type of water can cause some discomfort or sickness if consumed or exposed to humans. Category 3 (Black Water) is the worst water damage to have because if not addressed quickly health problems can be a huge problem, being around it could bring serious illness or even death if consumed or exposed to humans. This water damage is coming from raw sewage and other contaminated water sources, like ground surface water, rising water from rivers and/or streams, or flooding from seawater from natural disasters. So, whenever you have a water damage in your RV, Home, or Business call SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito (956)277-0645 we will be there quickly to make sure that you and your family are safe!
A Big Thank You!
4/6/2018 (Permalink)
Did you know that the month of April is appreciation month for all the first responders? Well, SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito would like to send out a huge thank you to all the first responders! We would like to thank you for everything that you do, you all put your lives on the line to help keep us as a community safe. We all wish that we would never have to use your services but when we do need it we are at peace knowing that you men and women in uniform are here to help us no matter what. We admire the outstanding work that you all do for the community. So, if you have a family member or a friend that works as a first responder make sure you thank them and tell that the work they do does not go unnoticed. Once again SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito would like to send out much love and appreciation to all the first responders!
Fungal Growth In A Humid Area
4/6/2018 (Permalink)
Living in an extremely humid area such as the Rio Grande Valley fungal growth is something that becomes very prevalent in our community. Whenever there is a water damage in a structure, the owners of the structure must make sure that the area affected by the water was dried up properly and promptly. When SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito gets a call to a water damage we arrive quickly because we know the longer the water stays the easier it is for fungal growth to appear. As soon as we get there we have our air movers and dehumidifiers to get rid of the moisture in the structure. So when you are in need of a highly trained production team to cleanup the damages caused by water then call SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito at (956)277-0645 no matter the time there is a crew here ready to help you in your time of need!
Getting your A/C units cleaned
4/2/2018 (Permalink)
We all know that we are supposed to change our filters on our A/C units and we all know that once in awhile that we need to have our A/C technician to come out to the house to clean the coil because it will inevitably get dirty. Well, why don’t you get SERVPRO a go at it, our technicians have the training to clean the blower and even the ducts. Our technicians will give you detailed steps on how to care of your A/C unit by talking about which filters are the correct ones to use and other helpful tips to keep your A/C unit running for a very long time. We all know someone that sneezes as soon as they enter their home or people that have year-round “allergies” it may just be happening because your/their blower or ducts are dirty. So, the next time you are about to pick up your phone to call your A/C technician how about giving SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito a call (956)277-0645. We will make your A/C units look like you have never even used them.
What is that?
3/19/2018 (Permalink)
Corner of a structure with smoke web.
The first time I walked in to a structure that had fire damage I was in complete shock. I never seen a house that had a fire incident that occurred in the structure. Seeing what a fire can do is an unforgettable experience I walked in to the structure and I saw what looked like black spiderwebs in all corners of the structure, to myself I thought man these people had a lot of spiders in their structure., but to my surprise those spider web looking things weren’t there because the structure was infested with spiders but it was due to the extreme heat that occurred in the structure. What happens in a structure is that the concentration of the soot is in a pattern and are circle like, well this happens when the intense heat is happening it magnetizes the screws and because of this the soot is attracted to it and it creates a darker circle around where the nail would be. As we go inside the structure we start to see the spider webs as I stated before these are not indeed spider webs these are called smoke webs and they occur when plastic has burnt because the smoke of plastic has a stronger charge than that of wood or cotton so with the already magnetized screw/nail they start to spin and collect in corners of ceiling and curtains. So, if there is a fire near you don’t forget to call SERVPRO of Harlingen and San Benito. (956)277-0645 we are open 24/7 even on holidays, we are there for you when you need it!
Clean Air Ducts Mean Clean Air!
1/19/2017 (Permalink)
Did you know that dirty air ducts have the potential to circulate odors and contaminants like dust and mold throughout your home?
Just call SERVPRO of Harlingen/San Benito at (956) 277-0645 and we will send a team of our trained specialists to take care of you! They will examine your ductwork and make a clean sweep using our Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System technologies!
Do not worry! Our team can remove years of dust and grime built up, which can not only improve conditioning operation and efficiency, but reduce health affecting allergens!
Just give us a call and remember that here at SERVPRO of Harlingen/ San Benito we care and our goal is to help make it... Like it never even happened.
Why do we need exhaust fans in the bathroom?
5/17/2016 (Permalink)
A bath exhaust fan can be helpful in many ways:
- It can remove odors and remove moisture, allowing fresher air to enter the bathroom.
- It can exhaust humid air, allowing dryer air to enter the bathroom.
- It also allows proper ventilation in the room that prevents and mildew and fungal growth.
Always try to run the exhaust fan to properly ventilate the bathroom and avoid the bathroom ceiling from staying damp and every surface in the room or they will soon grow mold.
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