Remember to call SERVPRO for your water damage

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. We provide emergency water damage restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you call, we answer the phone ready to help. We will immediately send a work crew to assess the water damage and begin the cleanup and drying process. We do the job right, the first time. Along the way, we will keep you informed on our progress with regular updates, and we'll always treat you and your family with respect.

As a leader in the industry, SERVPRO is the name you know and trust. We are located right here in the community, and SERVPRO has over 1,700 other Franchises so you know we have the resources, experience, and a track record of success. At SERVPRO we make it "Like it never even happened."

Do You Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today - (803) 536-1285

Loyal Customers

12/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is very thankful to one of our most consistent customers; Tri County Electric located in St. Matthews, South Carolina.

We are immensely honored to be the company that Tri County trusts to clean the carpet in their office space. Alan Ulmer, he is the general manager of Simply Clean and Tri County is one of his accounts. He is our point of contact and has been considerably kind and helpful to our business. We do there carpet quarterly.

Another consistent customer we would like to thank is Clarks Restaurant, we feel privileged to be the company chosen to clean the carpets at Clarks Restaurant in Santee, South Carolina. The employees at this establishment have been very helpful to us during our scheduled appointments.

Thank you to both these companies for their loyalty and support to SERVPRO of Orangeburg, we look forward to continuing this partnership for as long as our services are required.

We offer different floor cleaning services

12/21/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orangeburg offers many services that our professionally trained carpet team takes care of;

Upholstery : Wet or Dry Cleaning Methods 

Drapes: Wet or Dry Cleaning Methods; floor length, window length, valance, cornices.

Carpet Cleaning; for 500 square feet of carpet in Orangeburg you only pay $100, anything after that is 18 cent per square foot.

Area Rugs: We charge different but fair prices for this service. We will even bring your area rug back to our office, clean it then deliver it back to you.

Odor Identification and Deodorization

Stain Removal, Stain Resistance Application. We have a spotting kit to take care of most hard to get outs stains. This can be used on carpet and upholstery. This kit contains: stain zap, solvent spotter, urine odor, stain remover, and carpet upholstery cleaner.

Scotch guard; this is what we put on Carpet and upholstery to protect it from getting stained. This allows you to just wipe your spill up and it wont sink in. This service is only provided if you ask and is an extra fee.

Vehicle cleaning.

Tile cleaning/ grout included

Strip, seal, wax - not hardwood only vinyl and tile.

Hardwood floor cleaning; we mope with bright and neutral.

Roto/ Buff - concrete and vinyl.

Service your HVAC system.

12/21/2022 (Permalink)

Having your HVAC system serviced regularly is a vey important essential to prevent a water damage from happening inside your home. 

HVAC stands for "heating, ventilation , and air conditioning." This system is responsible for helping you maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. 

If your HVAC system gets clogged or starts leaking please contact your local HVAC company to have it fixed. If you do not catch the problem ahead of time and an unfortunate event like a water damage happens please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Orangeburg to handle your water damage restoration. We also do emergency services which starts at 5PM. We make it like it never even happen 24/7/365. 

Pack In's & Pack Outs

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orangeburg offers pack ins and pack out services to customers who have experienced a water damage , fire damage or mold remediation.

With our pack out service we come to your residence and pack up all of your most salvageable contents. We box these contents up according to which room we got them from and we then label them. After that process is done we take all your contents back to our office. We clean these items thoroughly and we place them in clean boxes. The length of this process usually depends on how bad the contents are. After the cleaning process, we store your contents in our warehouse until your residence repairs are finished.  

When repairs are finished we do what is called a pack in. This is when we bring all contents back to your residence and place the boxes in the correct rooms which it is labeled. 

Promotions & Raises

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Orangeburg we give promotions and raises to our hardworking employees. Employees who take initiative and those that are proactive, we believe will make our company better.

Congratulations to Ethan Phillips. He is a 23 year old crew chief. He started in November 2021 as a production technician, and in September of 2022 he became crew chief. His work ethic and determination is what got him a promotion.

Also, congratulations to Emerald Weber. She started with our company in April of 2022 as a production tech. Within three months she got a promotion to become our administrative assistant . In November of 2022 she became the new marketing and sales representative of SERVPRO of Orangeburg. Within the 8 months she has been employed with SERVPRO of Orangeburg she got two promotions.

So join our team. There is plenty of room for you to grow. We believe great people make a great company. All it takes is determination.

Christmas Party 2022

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

Over the past year our employees have shown great commitment to this organization, even in these troubling times. We have done our best as a management to find new ways to motivate our team but have found this incredibly difficult with all the outside distractions. We decided this year to do something a little different for a Christmas party. Years ago when our owner bought SERVPRO in 2016 we had a family Christmas party one evening, with BBQ and all the fixings. Since then we have decided to do lunch at various locations. So this year we wanted our Staff to feel the appreciation management has for them. So we went to the game room challenge!! We decided to do this type of event so all the employees can bond and get to know each other better while having fun doing it. We also had lunch brought to us before we started the game. 

Important Dos and Don'ts

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage Tips

(for clean water only)

• If possible, shut off water source
• Remove excess water by mopping
• Do Not use a regular vacuum to remove water
• Keep out of areas with safety concerns (Sagging ceilings, etc.)

Fire Damage Tips

• Keep hands clean
• Limit movement to avoid further damage
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator
• Do Not attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting a SERVPRO Professional 

Defending against Mold Growth

(Prompt Mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth which can be visible in as little as 24 to 48 hours under certain conditions)

• Keep the humidity between 30 to 60 percent
• Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations
• Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks
• Keep gutters and drains clear of debris
• Inspect the roof, windows, and other areas where water might enter the building, and perform necessary maintenance
• Respond to all water intrusions immediately

Types of Fires and How to Put Them Out

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know there are at least five different types of fires? Each fire class requires specific methods to extinguish. Keep your home or business safe by keeping on hand the right types of equipment that are designed to put out specific types of fires.

Below is a quick run down of the types of fires and the ways to put them out;

• Class A Fires - Extinguish with water
  • Ignites from common fuel sources, like wood, trash, fabrics, paper, and plastics
  • Accidental
• Class B Fires - Extinguish by depleting oxygen
  • Result from an explosion of flammable liquids or gases
  • Flammable liquids: paint, tars, alcohol, oils, solvents, gasoline, and kerosene.
  • Flammable gases: butane and propane 
• Class C Fires - Extinguish by cutting power
  • Electrical fires
  • Common causes: space heaters, faulty wiring, outdated appliances and lights, transformers, motors, and overburdened surge protectors
• Class D Fires - Extinguish with dry powder agents
  • Sparked by combustible metals
  • Combustible metals: titanium, magnesium, sodium, lithium, aluminum, and potassium
• Class K Fires - Extinguish with chemical fire extinguisher
  • Cooking fires, Grease fires
  • Sparks from grease, lard, olive oil, butter, animal fats, and vegetable fats

Water Damages due to Storms

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

A water damage of any kind can be absolutely devastating, but storms in particular tend to do the most overall damage. SERVPRO understands the headaches that come along with dealing with a catastrophe. Below is an overview of the restoration process;

• One Hour - Within one hour of notice of loss, a SERVPRO Professional will contact you to arrange for service
• Four Hours - Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.
• Detailed Explanation - A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO Professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.
• Pretesting - A SERVPRO Professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.
• Eight Hours - Within eight hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person.
• Cleaning and Restoration - SERVPRO Professionals will work to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over.
• Final Walk-through - After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted to help ensure your satisfaction

If you or a loved one are dealing with the effects of a storm, know you can count on SERVPRO to take care of you and your home.

Need Help Spring Cleaning?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

The weather in our area is finally starting to switch over to beautiful springtime. As we all know there is nothing better than a clean home in the spring. Allow our SERVPRO Professionals to help with your spring cleaning. We provide a number of helpful services;

• Before the process starts a SERVPRO Professional will help you make a comprehensive scope of the entire process, meeting your specific needs 
• Professional duct cleaning services that will have your air conditioning system feeling like a fresh breeze
• Clean your carpeted floor and stairs, rugs, upholstered furniture, mattress, and drapes with our efficient extractors
• We also can help with odors with thermal or o-zone fogging, pet odor treatment also available
• Clean hard surface flooring with SERVPRO certified chemicals, doesn't leave streaks
• Wet wipe all baseboards, trims, countertops, doors, walls, cabinets, and windows

Hurricane Season

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

South Carolina's hurricane season runs from the beginning of June to the end of November, but can start and end later than these dates. We still have awhile before the season is said to start but it is never too early to be prepared. We compiled a few tips to help you protect your home or business;

• Prepare for wind
  • Protect windows with storm-shutters or plywood
  • Reinforce roof hurricane straps and ties
• Prepare for rain 
  • Clear gutters and drains to avoid blockages
  • Have tarps ready
• Prepare for power outages
  • Extra ice for perishables
  • Generators can be extremely helpful
• Prepare for flooding
  • Waterproof your basement or crawlspace
  • Install sump pump

We hope you found these tips helpful and that this hurricane season you stay safe and dry.

Tips to Avoid Electrical Fires

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

Electrical fires originate in electric wires, cables, circuit breakers, or within electrical components and can cause twice the monetary damage as non-electrical fires, According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA.)

Common causes of electrical fires and ways to prevent them include:

1. Poor Maintenance - performing regular maintenance on electrical panels will help reduce the risk of electrical fires.
2.  Old Equipment and Appliances - replacing outdated and faulty circuits within equipment and appliances helps reduce the risk of electrical fires.
3. Not Following Safety Codes - make sure wiring matches the circuit amperage requirements and is free of any imperfections to help prevent electrical fires.

Don’t forget that working smoke detectors save lives. When these devices are present and properly maintained, they give you and yours precious time to react and escape in the event of a fire.

We hope these tips are helpful, and you never have to worry about mitigating after a fire, however if you find yourself in the midst of this, contact SERVPRO of Orangeburg. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

(803)536-1285

SERVPRO Tips!

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Every 18 seconds a fire occurs in the United States, SERVPRO understands the trauma of fire disasters. Here are some helpful fire and smoke damage tips;

Do's

• Limit movement in the structure to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean, soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• Place dry, colorfast towels on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely, and prop doors open to help prevent odors
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances. Then protect with a light coating of lubricant
• Pour RV antifreeze into sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs if heat is off during freezing season
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until checked by trained professional

Don'ts

• Attempt to wash an walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your local SERVPRO
• Consume any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat, or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock.

It's the Water You Don't See

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Any water damage in your home or business is bad,

There is no such thing as a small disaster. Especially when the water contains bacteria - or causes mold, rot and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. So before you get out the mop bucket and box fan to try and clean it up yourself, consider how this will affect your property in the long run.

Your SERVPRO Franchise Professional understands how disruptive unseen water damage can be for your home or business. For this reason, we offer 24-hour emergency response and, under normal circumstances, will have a trained, uniformed Franchise Professional on-site within four hours to begin emergency mitigation services. By responding quickly with a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO Professionals can help you regain control quickly while drying, deodorizing and protecting your property and contents.

So before you risk further damaging the value of the structure by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call your local water damage cleanup and restoration specialists at SERVPRO, or dial 1-800-SERVPRO.

When Storms Arise

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

When storms arise everyone's filled with many hard questions;

• How bad will this storm be?
• What can I do to prepare?
• Will my property receive potential damages from this storm?
• Am I prepared enough for this storm event?

These are questions we tend to ask ourselves during times of inclement weather. Our homes, place of business and even churches are major parts of our everyday lives that we hope to protect, they can also act as shelters for us during these intense storms. Shelters can endure damages on the inside of the structure just as well as the exterior. In the Orangeburg area specifically, we endure a lot of flooding during such storms. SERVPRO, your local cleanup and restoration company, is available to help 24/7. 

In the event of a Storm related damage, feel secure in knowing your local SERVPRO Franchise is always available to help make it 'Like it Never Even Happened."

National Leader in Storm Response

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

In the event of a major catastrophe, the SERVPRO Franchise System has a nationwide Large Loss Response Team comprised of trained and equipped professionals capable of responding to your facility. While most systems have a waiting list, you get priority service with SERVPRO. SERVPRO's Storm Response Team are prequalified and strategically positioned throughout the United States with substantial resources through a network of over 1,500 locations. Corporate oversight and communication on every file help to meet the predetermined client-specific needs. Immediate response, available 24/7/365 through 1-800-SERVPRO, will minimize interruptions.

• Strategically positioned Storm Teams on Standby
• Immediate Mobilization
• 1-800-SERVPRO - 24/7/365
• Mobile and Local Command Centers
• Commercial and Residential Losses Serviced
• Waiting Lists Minimized

No storm damage is too big for the SERVPRO System, when life's storms roll in, rely on us to make it "Like it never even happened."

Contents Restoration Services

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Fires can be very damaging to your home or business. Those affected by something so traumatizing as a fire damage can lose some if not the majority of their precious belongings. In some worse case scenarios, victims of a fire loss can be left without a home completely. SERVPRO Professionals understand how devastating this is for a customer to go through. Your personal belongings can be very sentimental and invaluable, which is why we, at SERVPRO, strive to restore all salvageable contents to preloss condition. Although, unfortunately, we are not always able to salvage everything, we strive to help our wonderful community and to restore as much of their sentimental and valuable belongings as possible.

When there is a loss in any of our communities, we empathize and strive to offer excellent and thoughtful services to those in need. We are here to begin the restoration process at the customers earliest convenience. You are not alone, we are here to help. Contact your local SERVPRO Franchise or call 1-800-SERVPRO. 

Preparing Your Business for Inclement Weather

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

As we prepare for the upcoming ice storm for our area, SERVPRO of Orangeburg would like to share some of our tips on how to best prepare for extreme weather conditions;

• Protect your employees, Design safe evacuation procedures
• Protect your physical property,  Utilize surge protectors, storm shutters, and tarps
• Secure records and data, perform digital backups
• Communicate with workers and customers, in the event of a power outage communication can be lost, for backup electrical power consider a gas generator
• Apply for assistance from state and federal agencies, FEMA, Federal Emergency Management Agency, is the main federal resource in providing relief
• Create an emergency plan, schedule regular drills to test effectiveness 

We here at SERVPRO of Orangeburg hope these tips help, remember to stay warm this weekend!

The business preparedness and planning resources at ready.gov/business can provide tips.

University Village Water Damage

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

For SERVPRO of Orangeburg, our 2022 started off with a rather large water damage at University Village, SC State University. The cause of loss was a supply line burst that occurred on the top floor. The water migrated down to the below levels affecting three apartments in total.  We began the drying process, placing dehumidifiers as needed.

It was quickly noticed that mold was present in the structure, as well as the slow speed at which the drying was taking place. It was determined demolition was needed to fully dry the structure. We began on the top floor and worked our way down, removing all contaminated drywall, carpet, etc. As we finished our demolition of each level we began the mold remediation and post construction cleanup. 

We are pleased to be the company chosen to help and make it "Like it never even happened."

Why Mitigate Water?

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Why Mitigate?

• Mitigation reduces losses of life and property
• Mitigation enables people to recover more quickly from a disaster
• Mitigation lessens the financial impact of disasters

Types of Water

• Clean - Broken pipe, Icemaker, Drain Overflow; No waste of Contaminants
• Gray - Washing Machine, Dishwasher, Roof Leak; Some soils and contaminants
• Black - Raw Sewage, Floods; High Degree of waste and contaminants

Water Mitigation Procedure

• Extraction of excess water
• Mold and microbial prevention
• Drying Process: Dehumidification and evaporation
• Monitoring the drying process
• Final Cleanup

Speed is Key!

Immediate response lessens damage;

• Less wood and drywall saturation
• Less Delamination
• Reduced Carpet and furniture stains
• Fewer warping hardwood floors
• Less mold/mildew
• Less contents damage

As mitigation specialists, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals focus on reducing loss, enabling quick recoveries and lessening costs involved with restoration of property damage events. 

Tips for Water Damages

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

When a water loss occurs, SERVPRO understands the frustration and stress that comes with it. Your local SERVPRO Franchise will respond quickly and efficiently to dry and help protect your home and belongings. We've compiled a list of tips to help reduce damages as you wait for a SERVPRO professional to assist you. (These tips are for clean water situations only.)

• Shut off the source of the water if possible, and if it can be done safely.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting if applicable.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Do not put cushion covers in washing machines.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to protect the furniture and flooring.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
• Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting to avoid staining.
• Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water as it lacks a filtration system and can cause more harm than good.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water. Safety is a top priority.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet to avoid stains.

The two key components of proper water restoration are; Fast Action and Thorough Drying. Even small water losses have potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. SERVPRO is here to make every water damage "Like it never even happened."

Why SERVPRO is a Better Restoration System

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

Emergency Response

Mitigation requires quick action, the faster a SERVPRO Franchise Professional can arrive on-site to perform water and smoke cleanup, the better the results. SERVPRO follows the 1-4-8 service response guidelines;

• 1) Within one hour from notice of loss a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will make contact to arrange services.
• 4) Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO Franchise Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services.
• 8) Within eight hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the adjuster or customer.

With the 1-4-8 method, SERVPRO is able to provide faster services while also being able to perform high quality work. No more waiting days for a response from a contractor when every hour counts. SERVPRO of Orangeburg is dedicated to providing 24-hour emergency service, 365 days a year.

The Right Equipment for Water Damages

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO understands using the proper equipment makes an immense difference in reducing a costly restoration process as well as the amount of time the drying process will take. Here is a list of equipment we use to verify an environment has been dried thoroughly;

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets and carpet padding.
• Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials.
• Thermo-hygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity.
• Infrared Cameras ca identify the location and extent of moisture in walls very effectively.
• Manometers allow SERVPRO Franchise Professional to measure the difference in air pressure when creating a negative air pressure environment.

The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction, when water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster. 

• Extractors are used in cleaning carpets and upholstery, as well as removing water from floors following a water damage.

After excess water is removed Air Movers and Dehumidifiers will be placed throughout the structure as needed to finish up the drying process and to make it "Like it never even happened."

Our Regulars

12/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is very thankful to one of our most consistent customers; Zeus Industrial Products, Inc. located in St. Matthews, South Carolina.

We are immensely honored to be the company that Zeus trusts to clean the carpet in their office space. Randy Black, who has been employed with Zeus for almost 26 years, is our point of contact and has been considerably kind and helpful to our business.

Another consistent customer we would like to thank is Calhoun Oil, we feel privileged to be the company chosen to clean the carpets at Bojangles in Santee, South Carolina. The employees at this establishment have been very helpful to us during our scheduled appointments.

Thank you to both these companies for their loyalty and support to SERVPRO of Orangeburg, we look forward to continuing this partnership for as long as our services are required. 

New Six bay Truck Storage Building

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Six Bay Truck Storage

Unfortunately over the last year our office has been hit by thieves more than once. When this happens it really adds an extra stress to our already hectic schedules of production. We have had 6 sets of catalytic converters cut off and stolen in 3 separate robberies over the last year. This renders these trucks useless until repaired thus our guys out of work or jobs being placed on hold due to unforeseen circumstances. This is not the way we want to serve our customers whom are often dealing with hardships themselves. The last straw was dealt this year when our enclosed trailer was stolen out of our yard during construction of our new building to keep our trucks and trailers. Thieves may deal blows to our organization but here at SERVPRO of Orangeburg we will continue to fight back with State of the art facilities to help make it "Like it never even happened."  

Company Culture: Christmas Party 2021

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Bowling Christmas Party 2021

Over the past year our employees have shown great commitment to this organization, even in these troubling times. We have done our best as a management to find new ways to motivate our team but have found this incredibly difficult with all the outside distractions. We decided this year to do something a little different for a Christmas party. Years ago when our Owner bought in 2016 we had a family Christmas party one evening, with BBQ and all the fixings. Since then we have decided to do company personnel and have done lunch at various locations. So this year we wanted our Staff to feel the appreciation management  has for them. So we went bowling!! We had 4 lanes at a bowing alley and invited families to attend as an appreciation for the sacrifice they also make, in allowing our team members to do what we have to do in this business whenever the phone may ring.  

From Carpet to Catastrophes

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Orangeburg has been well known as a carpet cleaning business over the years, however did you know we offer many other services as well? Here's a list of the many services we offer at SERVPRO of Orangeburg;

• Fire, Smoke, and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
• Water Extraction and Dehumidification
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Moveouts and Contents Cleaning
• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Upholstery and Drapes: Wet or Dry Cleaning Methods
• Stain Removal, Stain Resistance Application
• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning

As you can see we offer a variety of services to fit your specific needs. If you wish to schedule an appointment or consultation please contact us anytime at (803)536-1285. We look forward to working with you and making it "Like it never even happened."

How to Know if Your Property Has Water Damage

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

There are many ways to see if your property has water damage. While looking around your home; check for the following:

Water Stains Around the House

Water stains are the first sign to look for. These are fairly easy to spot; they are yellow water rings that form on walls, ceilings, and floors. Check affected areas for water damage.

Swollen Drywall

In some instances, drywall will absorb some of the excess moisture, which will cause it to bubble and become swollen. Inspect these areas thoroughly for an accumulation of water inside the drywall.

Rotting Wooden Items

You should also look for any rotten wood in the house. Verify that your wooden furniture, fixtures, and more, are in good condition.

A Nasty, Humid Smell

The smell of excess humidity or mold presence in a place is unmistakable. Smell the property intently to notice  any strange odors.

The Sound of Leaks Around the House

If you hear water dripping around the house, there may be a leak. However, if that leak has been there for a long time, then you can bet that there is water damage on your property.

Paint in Bad Shape

The paint job also suffers when there's excess humidity or water damage. If it's bubbling, discolored, or it's peeling off, there may be some damage.

The Walls Feel Damp

Place your hand on the walls, and see if it is damp. If so, there is probably water damage.

Damage to the Roof

If water is accumulating on top of the house, you will be able to tell by looking at the roof. If you notice that there are any dents or that there are broken/missing shingles, it may be because of water damage.

Rusty Metals Around the House

You should also look at the metals in the home; if they're rusty, there's probably water damage.

Poorly Maintained Attic and Basement

Believe it or not, an attic and/or basement in poor condition can also be an indicator of some problems in a property, since these are the rooms that are typically affected first. Check these areas thoroughly. 

Loose Caulk Around Pipes

You should also look around for loose caulk in the bathroom, on pipes, etc. This can be the result of water seeping through those areas.

An Awful Exterior

Finally, inspect your property's exterior. If you find a lot of puddles, or if you can notice that the ground around the property slopes towards the home; these two big warning signs of water damage.

If you find any issues, reach out to SERVPRO of Orangeburg. We are here to help. (803)536-1285.

Hurricane Preparedness Week

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane Prep.

Hurricane Prep Week is May 10-14 and we're sharing tips to help you get ready.

Day 1: Start by creating an emergency plan for your family that includes emergency meeting places in your home, neighborhood, and outside your neighborhood. Create a plan here-> https://bddy.me/3tCHLSW

Day 2 of Hurricane Prep Week is about having an emergency kit at work, in your car, and at home. This could include a backpack, water, non-perishable food, a blanket, etc. See the full list here-> https://bddy.me/3hgd5EL

Day 3 of Hurricane Prep Week is about reviewing your insurance. Look at your policies ahead of time to see what's covered and if flood insurance is available to you since it's the leading cause of damage from tropical systems. For more insurance tips visit https://bddy.me/33BvT9h

Day 4 of Hurricane Prep Week is about having an evacuation plan. Plan your route and have an alternate. Remember, you may not have to drive hundreds of miles to evacuate, only far enough away from the evacuation area.

Day 5 of Hurricane Prep Week is about getting your home ready. Trim your trees to prevent damage from snapped branches and board up your windows to protect them from flying debris. More ways to strengthen your home visit https://www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-strengthen-home

If your home is damaged, remember we are here to help. (803)536-1285.

Fire and smoke damage.

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage can cause major damage to your personal property and structures. Reacting quickly can help you minimize the impact of the damage. You should consider hiring a professional to help you manage the damage in the correct manner. If left untreated, smoke and fire damage can be more devastating than the fire in many ways, including:

Cost increases

When smoke damage goes untreated for a long period, the odors become more persistent and more difficult to neutralize. This can make the treatment process more time consuming and ultimately more expensive.

Soot deposits

Neutralizing residual soot and deposits is an effective first step. If left, soot can easily travel into other rooms that weren't affected by the fire, staining the paint, carpet, furniture, drapes, clothing and any other household items.

Corrosive damage

Smoke and ash can mix with water to produce a very corrosive element. If not cleaned quickly, this corrosive substance begins to slowly eat away walls, floors, ceilings and other surfaces in your home. Just cleaning with soap and water isn't enough. This substance requires the appropriate chemicals to completely remove it and lessen the damages.

If you have smoke damage in your home or business; contact SERVPRO of Orangeburg today. (803)536-1285. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

Smoke and fire damage clean up

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

Extensive fire damage in a local home

Here at SERVPRO of Orangeburg, we mitigate many disasters that could happen to your home. This includes fires. 

Fires present unique challenges because while trying to extinguish the fire, water damage is also caused. We are, however, prepared for this. With our wide array of cleaning solutions and machines we are capable of making it look "Like it never even happened."

An example of some of the chemicals we have on hand are Wall and All Plus and Wall rinse. These are used consecutively to ensure the best clean. 

Wall and All Plus is used to clean smoke damage on any painted and washable surface. This formula utilizes a surfactant boosting system that does not raise the PH, provides less foam, streaking, and residue for a superior clean. 

Then we follow with Wall Rinse, which is a neutralizing and deodorizing agent used to rinse walls after cleaning with alkaline based products like Wall and All Plus.

We hope you never need us for a fire, but if you do we are here to help 24/7/365. Just give us a call. (803)536-1285.

Emergency Ready Profiles

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

If your business were to experience a storm or any other disaster, do you know the first steps to take? Is your staff aware of who to contact or how to turn off power and water to minimize damage?

Here, at SERVPRO of Orangeburg, we offer businesses a plan of action, also known as an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP.) This profile is free of charge and contains extremely helpful information that we compile into one bright green folder to make locating it easy during an emergency. 

The ERP contains all emergency contacts phone numbers and email addresses, property details, building accesses, photos of main cut offs and typed instructions on where they are located, as well as any notes that you would like included. This will be very valuable information, available at your fingertips in the event that you need it. 

It is always best to be prepared, so contact SERVPRO of Orangeburg today to schedule an ERP meeting for your business. (803)536-1285.

When You Need A Quick Response, Call SERVPRO

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Timely mitigation is key to minimizing damage, business interruptions, and recovery costs. You and those who depend on you will appreciate the rapid response, expertise, and training that enables SERVPRO of Orangeburg to help get your facility back into operation quickly. 

In our business you need us fast! The sooner we arrive, the better chance we can reduce damage and save you money. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

To maintain our reputation as the #1 franchisor in the restoration industry, we follow emergency damage job response requirements of 1-4-8.

This means that within 1 hour of our notice of loss, a SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange for service. You will know help is on the way! Within 4 hours of loss notification, we will be on site to start mitigation services. Within 8 hours of on site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicate to the appropriate person, normally the adjustor or property manager. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to damage, which is why you should choose SERVPRO of Orangeburg for your mitigation needs. (803)536-1285.

DO's and DON'Ts During Active Water Damage

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

This is a busted pipe during an active water leak.

When experiencing an active water damage, there is many things running through your mind. SERVPRO of Orangeburg is aware of this and we are here to help. Below is a checklist of DO's and DON'Ts to assist you in what to do next, to lessen damage caused to your home or business.

DO:

• Shut off the water source if possible.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting the affected area.
• Place aluminum foil or wooden blocks under furniture legs.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature. 
• Remove oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.

DO NOT:

• Use a regular vacuum to remove water.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpeting.

These tips will help lessen the damage caused by he water, until help arrives. After following this quick checklist, contact SERVPRO of Orangeburg. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

(803)536-1285.

Sewer Backup

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Aftermath of a sewer backup.

A local grocery store was having an issue with their sewer system, as it was backing up. So they contacted SERVPRO of Orangeburg. Upon initial contact with the manager, we realized that we would need to wait on a plumber to fix the problem before we could clean and sanitize the area; in the meantime we were able to extract the contaminated water and set up machines. 

We set up a hydroxyl titan and some air scrubbers to help manage the odor while we were waiting on the plumber to fix the initial problem. Once the backup was handled, we were able to go in and do a deep cleaning on all of the affected areas as well as deodorize them.

The manager and staff were so relieved that we were able to get the mess cleaned and smelling  "Like it never even happened," in such a short time frame.

Contact us today  for all of your commercial cleaning needs. (803)536-1285.

What You Need To Know About Lead Paint

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Our Lead Paint Pamphlet That This Information Was Gathered From.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires firms performing renovation and repair that disturb lead-based paint in pre 1978 homes, child care facilities, and schools be certified and trained by the EPA approved training providers to follow lead safe work practices.

It's the Law!*

According to EPA requirements, contractors must use lead safe work practices and follow these three simple procedures:

• Contain the work area
• Minimize dust
• Clean up thoroughly

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is aware of the guidelines involving lead paint and will take the necessary precautions according to state laws. Our staff has been certified and trained to follow lead safe work practices while performing renovation projects in your area.

Does Your Property Contain Lead?

Older homes, child care facilities, schools, and other buildings are more likely to contain lead based paint.

Percentage of homes likely to contain lead:

• Built between 1960-1978 = 24%
• Built between 1940-1960 = 69%
• Built before 1940 = 87%

What You Can Do to Protect Your Family From Lead Based Paint

• If you rent, notify your land lord of any peeling or chipping paint.
• Clean up paint chips immediately.
• Regularly clean floors, window sills, and other surfaces. Use a mop, sponge, or cloth with warm water and a general all purpose cleaner.
• Thoroughly rinse sponges and mops after cleaning dirty areas.
•  Wash hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often.
• Keep children from chewing on painted areas.
• Clean or remove shoes before entering your home to avoid tracking in lead from soil.

*for more information on lead paint, visit the EPA's website @ www.epa/pubs/leadinfo.htm.

Fire Restoration

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

In the unfortunate event that you are impacted by a house fire; we here at SERVPRO of Orangeburg are dedicated to providing you with 24-hour emergency service, 365 days a year.

We offer:

• PRETESTING -  We start the fire cleanup and restoration process by pretesting to determine which processes to utilize and we allow you to preview the results.
• CONTENTS CLAIM INVENTORY SERVICE (CCIS) - We can generate comprehensive room-by-room inventories. Contents will be categorized as salvageable, non-salvageable, and questionable. This allows for easier contents settlement.
• CLEANING AND RESTORATION - All restorable structure and contents will be professionally cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition in most cases. This includes: walls, ceilings, floors, rugs, furniture, electronics, art, clothing, knick- knacks and more. We even provide emergency cleaning of items you will need immediately.
• MOVE OUTS - If relocation is necessary due to extensive damage, we are also trained to properly move out and control the inventory of contents throughout the cleaning and restoration process.

Remember SERVPRO of Orangeburg's Franchise Professionals are trained to make it "Like it never even happened." (803)536-1285. 

We Are #1 In Our Field.

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

We Are SERVPRO.

SERVPRO has been ranked #1 in our category by Entrepreneur Magazine in the franchise 500 ranking as well as #10 overall. With over 1,700 franchises nationwide, it is no wonder our customers love how fast and reliable we are. Since our expandable family is growing, it is no surprise we can handle any size disaster. We are a national brand but most importantly a local business, we live and work in the Orangeburg area, which makes us the best of both worlds. SERVPRO of Orangeburg is proud members of the Orangeburg Chamber of Commerce as well as participating with DORA; we love being active in the community and being involved with our community.

If you are interested in learning more or are in need of mitigation, give us a call today. (803)536-1285.

Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

This is a fire extinguisher and an acronym to help remember how to use it.

Fire extinguishers are vital in putting out fires and lessening the damage that could be caused. There are 6 main types of fire extinguishers, which will be reviewed here as well as their best uses. 

• ABC Fire Extinguisher – This is the most common extinguisher. It sprays a fine chemical mist that acts as a blanket to suffocate the fire. The ABC extinguisher can stop the reaction of liquid or gas fires. 
• Carbon Dioxide Extinguisher – This is the cleanest extinguisher because it leaves no residue and requires no clean up. It works by removing the oxygen to the fire which in turn suffocates it. 
• Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher – This is best for fires involving animal or vegetable fats and oils. It has a solution that attacks fires in two ways. 

-First: A liquid mist acts to cool the fire. 

- Second: A thick soap like substance forms, due to a chemical reaction with the cooking medium, that seals the liquid and prevents reignition.  

• Water Mist Fire Extinguisher – This is the most versatile of the fire extinguishers because it works across most classes of fire. This is possible because the fire is fought on multiple layers. 

_ Water is dispensed in a fog like form, decreasing the oxygen. 

_ The water works to cool the temperature of the fire. 

_ The water has been de-ionized, thus allowing to be used on electrical fires because it will not act as a conductor. 

• Foam Fire Extinguisher – This sprays a foam that expands when it hits the air which will blanket the fire. This “blanket” starves the fire out of fuel by preventing the vapors from rising. Foam extinguishers are best used on flammable liquids like gas fires. 
• Clean Agent Fire Extinguisher – This style is stored in a liquid form when it hits the air it converts to gas, which is non-conductive, leaves no residue, and is eco-friendly. The clean agent extinguisher is best used for fires on electrical or computer equipment. 

Call SERVPRO of Orangeburg for any of you fire mitigation needs. (803)536-1285. 

Tornado Damage

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Roof Damage from a Tornado.

On April 23, 2020; Orangeburg was hit by a tornado. There was extensive damage throughout the county. We received quite a few calls to help customers treat and restore their properties. 

This particular home had roof damage through out, which also caused significant water damage as well. Once contacted we were on site within an hour to begin mitigation. We were aware of the lack of power throughout the home due to powerline damage, so we came prepared.

Generators had to be set up to power the equipment that was necessary to treat the home. We set up dehumidifiers in every room to keep the moisture levels down, and also had to set an air scrubber to clean and control the air quality. The air scrubber helped accomplish this by allowing air to enter the unit and pass through the three-stage filtration capturing mold spores, dust and particulate to help control the secondary damage that can occur with water damage.

We used these machines to make it "Like it never even happened," for our customers, so that could get back to normal as soon as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Orangeburg today for all your mitigation needs (803)536-1285.

Ice Is the Southern Version of Snow.

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Winter in the south is usually mild, however we sometimes find ourselves facing a winter storm. While snow is occasional here in South Carolina, we typically end up with ice. Ice is not nearly as beautiful as snow and can wreak havoc for home owners. 

 Anice stormis a type of winter storm characterized by freezing rain. The freezing rain from an ice storm covers everything with heavy, smooth ice. In addition to hazardous driving or walking conditions, branches or even whole trees may break from the weight of ice. Falling branches can block roads, tear down power and telephone lines, and cause heavy damages to homes roofs and windows.

The weight of the ice can also easily snap power lines or bring down power/utility poles. This can leave people without power for anywhere from several days to a month. Loss of power to heat homes can quickly lead to frozen or busted pipes, which will cause extensive water damage in homes and businesses. 

After  an ice storm you should inspect your property and the immediate surroundings for damage.If you spot downed powerlines or tree branches nearby, contact your local police or hydro company. Don’t go near downed powerlines. If you have a build up of ice on your roof, consider hiring a professional to remove it.

Always remember SERVPRO of Orangeburg is here for you 24/7 - 365. We are just a phone call away to make it "Like it never even happened." (803)536-1285.

Preventing and Putting Out Grease Fires

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

Tips to Prevent a Grease Fire:

Sump Pump

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

This basement could have used a sump pump to prevent this flooding.

A sump pump is an electrically powered pump used to remove water that has accumulated in a water-collecting sump basin, commonly found in the basements of homes. The life of a sump pump varies but is typically around 10 years.

How It Works

Sump pumps move water from your basement away from your home. A sump is a naturally constructed pit in your basement floor. This pit holds the pump. The pump is equipped with valves that sense escalating water levels or pressure. When the water gets too high, the pump automatically pumps excess water out of the basement and away from your property using a discharge line. This line connects to the pump and extends to a designated drainage area at a minimum of 10 feet from your foundation. Be aware that the length of this line can be mandated by local code ordinances. 

There are many types of pumps and different horsepower options available, so research what will work best for your home before making a choice of which one to go with.

This will help prevent future water damage to your home. However if you have water damage currently, call SERVPRO of Orangeburg 27/7.

WE will make it "Like it never even happened." (803)536-1285.

Hurricanes

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane season begins on June 1 and lasts until the end of November. Being so close to the ocean, Orangeburg is in the path of hurricanes that threaten the South Carolina coast .We will discuss how to prepare for a possible hurricane.

 1.Cover your air conditioner - You may want to protect your outdoor air conditioning unit against airborne debris and projectiles, which can lodge in your unit and cause damage. 

2. Stock up on plywood - Plywood is an affordable solution to protect windows from airborne projectiles. 

3.Seal windows & doors - Leaky windows and doors can let in water, so make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed. 

4. Remove area debris - You should remove or secure anything surrounding your home that could become an airborne projectile, this includes toys and tree limbs. 

5. Clean out your gutters & drains - It’s always a good idea to keep your gutters and downspouts clear, but in the case of a hurricane, clear gutters can prevent instant flooding of your attic or basement. 

6. Check your sump pump - The sump pump in your basement works to keep your basement or crawl space from flooding. Before any major storms, you should make sure it’s operating correctly. Any debris should be cleared from the pump to prevent clogging.

7. Evacuate - While preparing your home, remember things are replaceable but life isn't. If instructed to evacuate; do so. We will be here to help make it "Like it never even happened," when you return.

Tips to Prevent Electrical Fires

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Aftermath Of An Electrical Fire

Electrical fires originate in electric wires, cables, circuit breakers, or within electrical components and can cause twice the monetary damage as non-electrical fires, According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA.)

Common causes of electrical fires and ways to prevent them include:

1. Poor Maintenance - performing regular maintenance on electrical panels will help reduce the risk of electrical fires.
2.  Old Equipment and Appliances - replacing outdated and faulty circuits within equipment and appliances helps reduce the risk of electrical fires.
3. Not Following Safety Codes - make sure wiring matches the circuit amperage requirements and is free of any imperfections to help prevent electrical fires.

Don’t forget that working smoke detectors save lives. When these devices are present and properly maintained, they give you and yours precious time to react and escape in the event of a fire.

We hope these tips are helpful, and you never have to worry about mitigating after a fire, however if you find yourself in the midst of this, contact SERVPRO of Orangeburg. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

(803)536-1285

Storm Causes Damage at Local Store

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Air Movers Drying Affected Area in a Local Business

When a storm struck Orangeburg, a local strip mall had major roof damage. The store is this picture had water pool at an area near the front door. SERVPRO of Orangeburg was contacted to extract the water and mitigate the damages.

Once the water was extracted, our crew got to work placing air movers (pictured) and dehumidifiers to help dry all the affected areas and to minimize the amount of damage incurred.

While the machines were helping speed the drying process, the crew began removing affected ceiling tiles, wall sections and carpet tile squares that could not be saved. 

Our client was very happy with how quick this process was once the roof was fixed and we could do what was required and get them back open and operating as quickly as possible. 

Contact our office today for any of your water damage needs - (803)536-1285.

No job is to big. We have access to everything you may need.

Hot Water Heater Causes Major Loss at Local University

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Hot Water Heater Causes Major Loss at Local University

A hot water heater head exploded it a dorm building of a local university, causing extensive damage in 10 rooms. As soon as the issue was found, SERVPRO of Orangeburg was contacted. 

Upon arrival, our crews first step was to extract the standing water from all affected areas. Once extraction was completed, our expertly trained team began by placing machines to start the drying process. These machines include blowers and dehumidifiers.

After the drying process had begun, the next step was to start removing all the affected materials; including ceiling tiles, wet carpet, wet contents, wet wall sections, cabinets and vanities. 

The drying process also included conducting moisture readings daily until every area had normal readings on all surfaces. Once this goal was reached, our crews pulled all machinery from the jobsite and completed the job in our system.

The customer was happy about the ease of the process in such a stressful time and were grateful to our crew for their communication during the whole process.

Contact SERVPRO of Orangeburg today for all of your water mitigation needs - (803)536-1285.

From Carpets to Catastrophes

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

This photo is of one of our pamphlets that explains everything that was just detailed for you right here.

When you need it done right and done fast call SERVPRO of Orangeburg for all your commercial cleaning needs. Did you know that when you hire SERVPRO of Orangeburg for maintenance cleaning, you get around the clock restoration services built with you in mind?

We offer a variety of services in cleaning and restoration.

CLEANING:

• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning
• Upholstery and Drapes 
• Stain Removal and Stain Resistance Applications
• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning
• Odor Identification and Deodorization

RESTORATION:

• Fire, Smoke, and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Vandalism Cleanup
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Biohazard Cleaning
• Contents Claim Inventory Service

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is committed to providing excellent customer service whether for routine cleaning or while providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs.  

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is:

1. Local - we can get to your site quickly. Quick response time helps ensure the damage is contained and restoration can begin promptly. 
2. Experienced - with over 40 years of experience as a leading fire and water cleanup and restoration provider.
3. Large Loss Capability - No fire or water damage is too big.

Contact SERVPRO of Orangeburg today for any of your commercial cleaning needs - (803)536-1285. We will make your business look "Like it never even happened." 

We Can Now Do Asbestos Testing

1/12/2021 (Permalink)

Andrew Proudly Showing His Certification.

Asbestos has been widely used and continues to be used in construction as a strengthening and fire proofing material. It has been used in hundreds of products that are frequently referred to as Asbestos Containing Material or ACM.

Potential health effects from exposure to asbestos include mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, as well as various other types of cancer. Due to these health risks, when a corporate job comes in we are required to test suspicious materials that may contain asbestos.

Previously, we at SERVPRO of Orangeburg, outsourced asbestos testing. In the state of South Carolina asbestos testing has to be done by a licensed building inspector, which due to their availability to get to our job site could prolong the job. However, now that Andrew has taken the required courses and passed the examination, we can take the samples and send them off ourselves. This will help expedite the process and we will receive the results sooner, so the mitigation can begin quicker.

Giving Back

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

This is a picture of our trucks outside of this faith based non profit organization before the pack out started.

Initially SERVPRO of Orangeburg was contacted by a local homeless shelter that was looking to reopen after being closed for a while, to help with excessive mold. It turned out to be a bigger job than was originally expected, which of course means it was more expensive than this faith based not for profit organization could handle. After reaching out to the community they were able to get some volunteers together to perform the pack-out portion of the mitigation. We at SERVPRO of Orangeburg also volunteered our time and man power to help with the pack out at no cost to the organization. We wanted to help the community and build positive relationships with other businesses around us. After the volunteer portion was complete, we were able to complete the mold mitigation as planned. Now this shelter is back open and in business, helping those in need in the Orangeburg community. We always enjoy helping out in situations like this and love seeing Orangeburg's revitalization and regrowth. 

10 Tips to Winterize Your Home

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Low temperatures and freezing water can wreck havoc on your house. In fact, insurance agents state that winter weather causes billions in insured losses annually; it doesn't have to. 

Water damage linked to frozen and burst pipes accounts for a large portion of these claims. During winter months it is recommended that you keep your home at 65 degrees or higher and know where your water cut off valve is located so you can quickly turn off your water in case of emergency. 

These tips are helpful but there is still money to be saved and other issues avoided by addressing problem areas in and around your home.

1.  Insulate all Pipes
2.  Insulate Your Attic or Crawl Space
3.  Service Your Furnace and Chimney
4.  Swap for Storm Windows
5.  Repair Loose Roofing Shingles
6.  Clean and Inspect Gutters
7.  Repair patios and pavers.
8.  Look for Dying or Weak Tree Limbs
9.  Secure Outdoor Water Sources
10.  Mark Garden Beds, Paths, and Driveways

Follow these tips to help prevent major damages to your home, but remember we are here for you 24/7 in case of emergencies and can make it "Like it never even happened."

Reference: https://www.consumerreports.org/home-maintenance-repairs/get-your-house-ready-for-winter/ by Paul Hope.

New Equipment: Titan Hydroxyl Generator

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

A local medical office has been using a Titan since the beginning of the pandemic, and has had no positive tests in their office.

We, here at SERVPRO of Orangeburg, are pleased to announce the Titan Hydroxyl Generator 780 is now in our equipment inventory. The titan offers the following:

• 40,000 Cubic Foot Capacity
• 5,000 CFM Air Movement
• 82% Efficient Washable Filter
• NASA Technology

The Titan Hydroxyl Generator Deodorizes and decontaminates with no added chemicals. The Titan safely removes odors, kills germs and cleans the air. International Ozone Technologies Group, Inc along with many of its dealers have tested Titan on many odors including but not limited to:

• cigarette smoke
• dead body odor
• urine odor
• garbage odor 
• airborne VOC's

Whenever odors are present, germs are in the air, or you want to clean and purify the air, the Titan Photocatalytic Hydroxyl Generator is your answer. UVA rays emitted from a TiO2 photocatalytic lamp pass through the anatase -coated reactor sleeve, forming electron hole pairs that react with H2O and O2 in the air. These form hydroxyl radicals that, when dispersed by a fan, decompose organic and inorganic gases and air pollutants into carbon dioxide and water. 

Titan is safe to use at any time with or without people or animals in the treatment area, so you can continue business as usual while the Titan is in use. 

Call us at SERVPRO of Orangeburg today to see if the Titan or any of our other machines might help your home or business. (803) 536-1285.

reference: hydroxyl generator 780 operations manual and SERVPRONET

Orangeburg Smoke and Soot Cleanup

12/11/2020 (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 Orangeburg 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 for 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 – (803)536-1285

Restoring Your Orangeburg Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Orangeburg 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 Orangeburg

SERVPRO of Orangeburg 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.

Top of the line equipment.

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

When a fire or mold happens, we have the equipment to clean even the smallest of knick knacs. This is the DK SONIC a mechanical ultrasonic cleaner. 

Ultrasonic cleaning is based on the cavitation effect caused by high frequency ultrasonic wave vibration signal in the fluid. Microscopic bubbles are formed, and then implode violently causing the cavitation which create an intense scrubbing action on the surface of the item being cleaned. The bubbles are small enough to penetrate microscopic crevices, cleaning them thoroughly and consistently. 

This machine can be used to clean a wide variety of instruments and mechanical parts including, but not limited to: jewelry, watch straps, car/motorcycle parts, toothbrushes and dentures, printer heads, horse bits/stirrups, tattoo needles, and guns/gun components.

Remember, SERVPRO makes it "Like it never even happened," and tools like this are a part of how we accomplish that. 

Faster to your Orangeburg Water Damage Event

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

This is a water damage from a busted water heater that SERVPRO of Orangeburg mitigated. The damage was extensive and included more than one story.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Orangeburg 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 Orangeburg 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 Us 24/7 – (803)536-1285

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 Orangeburg

SERVPRO of Orangeburg 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.

Does Your Orangeburg Home Have A Mold Problem?

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Customer had a water heater line burst which was left unattended, causing heavy microbial growth. This area was removed by our trained professionals.

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 –(803)536-1285

DORA Golf Tournament

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

We always enjoy the opportunity to give back to our community and The Downtown Orangeburg Revitalization Association (DORA) is an organization that encourages development, redevelopment, and improvement of downtown areas. This helps promote business to create a strong economical base for the community of Orangeburg.

On October 29,2020 DORA hosted a golf tournament that SERVPRO of Orangeburg not only sponsored but also participated in. We also set up a booth to help bring awareness to the need of a plan for mitigation in case of an emergency. 

These events are always fun and help bring a since of community. We are glad to be able to participate in functions such as this and look forward to the opportunity to do more functions in the future with DORA and other similar organizations.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

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 Orangeburg today at  (803) 536-1285 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.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of 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 Centers for Disease Control 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. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage 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 of 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 Orangeburg, 803-536-1285

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

New Dehumidifier's now in Use!

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

LGR 6000Li Dehumidifier

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is happy to announce the production division has new equipment to utilize! Our new dehumidifier's have actually been in use for a couple months. Customers have even commented on how quiet they are in comparison with some other units we have at our disposal. The units are the LGR 6000Li dehumidifiers made by DRI-EAZ. They are what we refer to as a Large dehu, in the restoration industry. This is based on the specific number of pints per day a unit is rated to be able to pull out of the air in a optimal testing condition. These units are also very easy to manage with one person and can even be stacked if necessary. Overall, we have been pleased with the new units and look forward to seeing what they can do to help us continue to make it "Like it never even happened." 

New Airmover's now in Use!

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

EAM 900 Airmover

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is once again happy to announce the production division has more new equipment to utilize! Our new EAM 900 Low Profile Airmovers have actually been in use on multiple jobs over the past couple months. The units are stack-able which is very convenient to fit as many as possible on our trucks. Also, these units only draw 2 amps of power and only weigh 16.5 lbs. each. The 15 foot cords allow for units to be easily daisy chained with the use of the integrated outlets on each individual piece. Overall, we have been pleased with the new units and look forward to seeing what they can do to help us continue to make it "Like it never even happened." 

We Clean Carpet!

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Happy Customer's Master bedroom carpet.

Most people who hear the SERVPRO name think that we only deal with water, fire and mold mitigation and remediation, but the truth is, we do a lot more than that! On top of being the best in the business in those categories, SERVPRO of Orangeburg also cleans carpet, rugs, upholstery and furniture. We can even strip and wax your floors, clean interiors of cars, and clean ducts. Our highly trained staff with over 20 years of experience has the knowledge and skill to professionally clean any items you may need. We can handle any job, big or small, and if you have something out of the ordinary, we would be more than happy to come out and give you a free estimate on what it would cost to clean. If you mention this blog post when you call, we will give you 10% off your next residential carpet cleaning (one time use only).

Why is Mitigation Important!

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage from Burst Water Heater

When you have water damage in your home or business the first thought should be how to mitigate the situation. Mitigation, as defined by FEMA, is “the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impacts of disasters”. Mitigation is important because it is the first step toward getting your property back to the way it was as quickly as possible. It will minimize the potential for mold growth and hopefully prevent a more costly situation. The longer that water stands in a structure the more extensive the damage can be, so it is important to begin mitigation immediately. 

Here are some steps you can take, after you have found water damage in your property, to help. First, you can try and locate the source of the water. If it is a burst pipe or stemming from running water you should try and turn off the main water source, or contact a plumber if you are unable. This will help prevent any more damage than what has already been done. It is important to remember that you should stay away from electronic devices that have been affected, and to turn off any related breakers if you are able to do so. You should gather any items that haven’t been damaged and move them to an unaffected area of the house. Also, avoid walking on affected carpet as much as possible, to keep from spreading the affected area.

When the experts at SERVPRO of Orangeburg arrive to your call, they will go through several steps to achieve the complete drying of your structure and contents.

Step 1: Assessment: A technician will assess the extent of the damage, which will help him determine the type of the water damage, and the areas that were affected.

Step 2: Extraction: Our trained technicians will extract any standing water left in the structure

Step 3: Drying: We will use industry leading equipment such as fans and dehumidifiers to quickly speed along the drying process.

Step 4: Sanitizing: Technicians will sanitize the affected areas with antimicrobial treatment.

Step 5: Cleaning: If needed, our crew will come after the drying has finished and clean the carpet and/or rugs that were affected.

Water damages can be a major disruption in your life, but we here at SERVPRO of Orangeburg are committed to helping you get your property back to the way it was and making it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Orangeburg’s Employee Spotlight for the Spring-Cleaning Season.

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

Carpet Crew Chief: Max Jervey

SERVPRO of Orangeburg’s Employee Spotlight for the Spring-Cleaning Season.

Max Jervey has made a name for himself here at SERVPRO of Orangeburg. With 20 years of service on the job, his experience is second to none. Max, being a native of Orangeburg, has lived through many changes at SERVPRO of Orangeburg. In August of 2016, Max started working under his fourth SERVPRO owner and has proven to be a very valuable asset. He takes great pride in his work and has many customer relationships that he has built throughout his many years of service. Max also enjoys participating in our local community activities here in Orangeburg. Our carpet crew under Max’s leadership can handle any sort of job or type of cleaning needed from carpet to upholstery, and of course rug cleaning. We all strive as small businesses to get and keep the most knowledgeable people on staff and Max embodies the commitment it takes to do the job!  

Injectidry HP-60 Drying Mats

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Drying Mats on the Job!

In 2016 our Injectidry HP-60 System was brought into our franchise as a resource in Orangeburg and it has not disappointed when called upon. Depending on the type of water damage often various resources are utilized, usually air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to dry materials, but sometimes something a little extra is needed. If the job calls for the removal of bound water, then we turn to our specialty drying equipment called the Injectidry Floor drying System. In three out of four attempts recently, our drying mats have saved our customers wooden flooring. In the other case they were used, a fire caused too much damage to the flooring to salvaged but the damages stopped there instead of spreading further! These mats work best on bound water, the water that gets down into the cracks in wooden floors under the moisture barrier, or in the concrete underneath. No matter where the water may spread, remember we at SERVPRO of Orangeburg have the tools to make it “Like it never even happened.”

New Office Location

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

New Office/Warehouse

SERVPRO of Orangeburg is happy to officially announce our move to a new location at 1328 Middlepen Road!

SERVPRO of Orangeburg was started in 1971 by Don Epps at 331 Saint Johns St in downtown
Orangeburg, and remained at that location for over 45 years. In 2016 the business was bought by Jacob Burger and shortly thereafter it was realized that we would need a bigger facility. After several years of searching, we finally found the perfect property to help our franchise grow. With this new building we have gone from 4000 sqft to over 10,800 sqft! This will allow us to store and clean more contents on site with room to handle the cleaning of more rugs and furniture. In addition, we have been able to add more equipment to better handle any situation that may arise. Our new facility is a work in progress and we appreciate the continued support in our effort to make SERVPRO of Orangeburg the best that it can be!