Being Prepared Before A Disaster Strikes

11/3/2023 (Permalink)

Always be prepared before a Disaster Strikes

SERVPRO® franchises have been in business since 1967, meaning 50+ years of disaster recovery experience. In 50 years, over 2,000 franchises have been opened and run all over the United States and Canada. Each franchise is independently owned and operated, but still able to work as a team for large events. We are in your community, Here to Help!

SERVPRO can handle any size job from a small residential disaster to a large commercial facility. We have unlimited staff and resources to take care of the job quickly and efficiently. For commercial properties, we understand the need to limit business interruption after a disaster. Our staff can act quickly to ensure your business is back up and running. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergencies.

The restoration industry is governed by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) which identifies our standards we must on all cleaning & restoration projects. Our SERVPRO employees are certified as Water Restoration Technicians, Applied Structural Drying, Commercial Structural Drying, Fire Smoke Restoration Technicians, Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians, and several others through the IICRC. Our highly trained staff is Here to Help with any of your disaster recoveries needs to make it “Like it never even happened.” All onsite employees, as well as any subcontractors brought to a job, are all background checked prior to working with our SERVPRO Team.

SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

SERVPRO offers an Emergency Ready Profile (ERPs) to commercial building owners. These profiles are a start-up approach that provides critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. The program was developed to help commercial building owners be prepared before a disaster happens.  

Are you ready for whatever happens? Emergency disasters that interrupt businesses cause devastation. Did you know that about 50% of businesses close and never reopen due to a disaster? Of those businesses that did reopen, most of them had some type of response plan in place. Preparedness is key!

It is not always top of mind to plan for a disaster, but we can help you with that. Emergencies that damage your business will happen when you least expect them, so it is always better to be prepared. Having a plan in place expresses trust in your team members and employees. It provides reassurance to your customers & clients that you are prepared to minimize business interruption. Timing is everything!

Call your local SERVPRO to get an Emergency Ready Profile started. The profile can be completed at your pace with the assistance of one of our SERVPRO team members. It is completely up to you, the business owner, facilities manager, or property engineer to decide what important information you want or need on your profile. There is no cost for the profile, and it is a great value to your business. The profile is easily accessible through a mobile app (password protected) and can even be emailed over as a PDF!

Information that can be included in your ERP to make it helpful in case of a disaster strike includes, but is not limited to, building access information, employee and emergency contacts, utility contacts and shut-off locations, primary contact information, insurance contact information, property owner information, etc. You can decide how much information you would like to include within the app.  Pictures are also available to attach on tabs in the profile to have a visual of shut-off locations, PDFs of emergency action plans, or floor plans.  

Your Local Franchise

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County has been in business for 22 years. We are locally owned and operated as a small business in the community. We want to ensure we take care of our customers with the utmost respect during the difficult times they may be facing with a disaster in their home or office.

Contact us today to learn more about our services. If you are interested in an Emergency Ready Profile for your business, contact our office, and a SERVPRO team member will call to set up a meeting to start the process.

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County

847-516-1600

Structural Drying

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

There is never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business.

Storms and inclement weather can be devastating to any business. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. There is never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when an emergency situation arises in your business, SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County will be there fast with the help you need.  

Time is Money  

As a leader in water damage restoration, we know fast mitigation is the key to limiting business interruption. With an unmatched national footprint of over 1,800 franchises, SERVPRO®’s Disaster Recovery Team can provide trained crews faster to any size disaster and can be on-site within a few hours to help reduce the future damage that water can cause. We have the right equipment, procedures, and training to help ensure the structure is dry the first time, saving you time and money.  

Specific Tasks to Include:  

• Containment of damaged areas to reduce in-flow of water.  
• Shrink-wrapping of structures to control inflow of mixture.  
• Water Extraction – to remove excess water from a structure.  
• Moisture Mapping – to determine impacted areas of a structure.  
• Selective Demolition – to remove wet building materials that cannot be economically dried in place.  
• Containment – to ensure potential contaminants do not spread.  
• Evaporation Enhancement – to remove moisture content from building materials.  
• Dehumidification – to remove excess water vapor from the structure.  
• Temperature Control – to assist in dehumidification and to prevent the onset of mold growth.  
• Post-Drying Cleaning – to remove any potential contaminants from dried building materials.

Types of Deodorizing Products for Southern McHenry County Fire Damage Restoration

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO hydroxyl generators safely remove malodors from fire damaged Southern McHenry County homes and businesses

Removing Malodors Is a Large Portion of Southern McHenry County Fire Damage Restoration

Odors are one of the troublesome byproducts of combustion and fire damage. When your home or business deals with these offensive malodors, direct action is necessary to overcome the smell and return the property to preloss conditions. Several products and tools are used in this process.

Counteractant Products

The first step that can be taken about odors from Fire damage in Southern McHenry County homes is applying and using counteractant products and chemicals in our supply. Often, products in this vein are used to absorb smoke odors as they pass through airflow pathways or the HVAC system. Beads and granules placed in small containers can considerably reduce odor severity at these junctions.

Cleaning Products

It is possible to reduce the severity of malodors after fire damage through the cleaning process. Removing soot and smoke residues can directly impact the powerful smells generated throughout the structure. This process weakens the concentration of odors throughout the house while also protecting the surfaces of building materials from irreparable harm.

Deodorizing Tools

One of the final steps in deodorizing and neutralizing harsh odors after combustion is applying and using specific equipment designed for this purpose. We have several tools in our inventory capable of reacting directly with odor molecules. Based on the severity of the situation and the affected materials involved, the choice in equipment can include:

• Thermal Fogging – a vapor deodorizing product in portable dispensing equipment.
• Hydroxyl Machines – HEPA filtration and UV deodorization. 
• Ozone Generators – Creates unstable molecules that neutralize odor compounds on contact. 

Deodorization is a considerable part of the restoration process after a fire. Harsh malodors can quickly take over the property, preventing comfortable living conditions. We prioritize neutralizing harsh smells after combustion using products and equipment on our Green Fleet of service vehicles. Trust SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County restoration professionals to help when you need it. Call now at (847) 516-1600.

Is Your Southern McHenry County Home At-Risk for Winter Water Damage?

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

Has the extreme weather caused ice dams and thus damaged your home? Team SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 to help. Call our technicians today for services.

Homeowners Should Stay Alert to Possible Water Damages Southern McHenry County Homes Could See This Year

When you consider how rapidly the weather can change to extreme and hazardous conditions during the winter, it is no surprise that exposed plumbing and vulnerable structural points become catalysts for rapidly-spreading water damage in the house.

How Do Pipes Freeze?

Frozen pipes and ice dams in or on Southern McHenry County homes create costly and threatening conditions to overcome. Common threats like freezing water lines occur when stationary water in the pipe becomes influenced by cold air surrounding it.

Can Frozen Plumbing Be Prevented?

It is crucial to note that frozen pipes are avoidable when taking specific preventive measures. Some of the direct actions capable of reducing the chance of freezing in the lines include:

• Letting Water Drip 
• Insulating the Pipes
• Circulating Warmer Air 

Potential Threats to the Roof 

Yet another potential threat that your home could experience during the winter is a buildup of ice along the roof eaves. Damming can force water back into the attic space and create costly restoration needs. Heated cables and ice belt barriers can help prevent this buildup.

What Can SERVPRO Do to Help? 

Homeowners must act fast when flooding or burst pipes threaten the residence. Standing water and migrating moisture is substantially destructive, so our professionals combat this with fast mitigation solutions like extraction, drying, content management, and surface cleaning. 

Because the winter season can lead to several types of water damage for your home or business, it is important to have a plan in place to restore and recover after these compromising events. Our SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County team works fast to provide needed mitigation after water damage emergencies occur. Call today at (847) 516-1600. 

When Leaking Dishwashers Cause Water Loss Events in Southern McHenry County

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Leaking appliances cause headaches for homeowners. Inspect your dishwasher often and know that SERVPRO can handle your restoration needs.

Speed Saves the Day When Southern McHenry County Home Needs Water Removal 

Most homeowners never think about their dishwashers, until it is spewing gallons of water on the kitchen floor. Then, it may seem overwhelming as to what to do first.  

After turning off the water, one of the smartest actions a homeowner can do is to contact SERVPRO for water removal of your Southern McHenry county home. The emergency response teams are on standby 24-hours daily, so there is never a wait to begin recovery from loss. 

Why SERVPRO?

Acting swiftly after a water loss in the home is crucial. That is why SERVPRO team members are available 24/7 - even on holidays - and arrive within an hour of the initial call. The techs bring all the tools and equipment required in their green service vans to restore the home to its pre-damage condition.  

Careful Scoping of the Property

SERVPRO techs use their moisture detection equipment to carefully map the path of where the water from the dishwasher migrated. Because they arrived quickly, in this case, no seepage occurred into the subfloor, as confirmed through the equipment.  

Water Removal Tools and Techniques

In a water loss from a supply line in a kitchen, it is common to find water under cabinets and have an area of the wall that requires drying behind the dishwasher. The techs remove the toe kicks under the cabinet and pull out the dishwasher to ensure that they extract as much water as possible before drying.  

Fast Drying Limits Loss

Since the cleanup efforts began quickly, loss to the property was minimal. The techs used air movers to dry both the flooring as well as specially directed airflow at the wall where the supply line broke. Once the technicians completed the drying phase, they wiped down the surfaces and got the space ready for repairs by the plumber.   

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County at (847) 516-1600 arrives fast for water removal needs. Our certified technicians have both the experience and equipment to make any size water loss, "Like it never even happened." 

Enjoy Your Holidays

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

Especially at this time of year, we believe in giving thanks and spreading joy. Our office Christmas decorations help with that.

Enjoy Your Holidays

At SERVPRO we work hard and we celebrate hard. We believe the best companies do their work well but also know how to appreciate life and the holidays with the most important asset in any company-- employees.

This year at SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County our employees challenged each other to see who could create the best Christmas wonderland in their office space. Most of us went wild with holiday decoration fun.

One employee's office features a snow pathway to his desk, Christmas presents, stuffed animals, and a colorful "JOY" sign.

Another employee wears her Santa hat, hung Christmas stockings, put down a glittering snow path way to her desk, and placed some of the most popular children's movie characters around her space. The Minions and Winnie the Pooh are bringing smiles to the office staff.

A third employee has made his brown desk look like the edges are dripping with frosting. At first glance some of us thought that desk was a gingerbread or cupcake desk, but we did not bite. A huge red bow dominates his main office wall. A row of bright poinsettia plants gives the office an outdoor feel.

Then there's the employee with many gold and silver stars twirling from her office ceiling. Over her desk is a snowy archway crowned with a bow. She's got Santa figurines and a snow globe. But in this office the favorite decoration by far is a huge box of candy canes. I wonder why.

A team of employees has taken a different approach. Their space is long and narrow with limited light (they need to limit the light for the screen work they do). Walk into their space and you're greeted with a ceiling and walls aglow with a few hundred colored Christmas lights. All the lights lead your eye to end of the space where you see a good-size fully decorated and lit Christmas tree.

Another well decorated area appears at the top of this post.

We think of this season as a time of thanksgiving and joy. In Southern McHenry County we have a lot to be thankful for and joyful about. Our staff consists of talented, dedicated, fun-to-work with people. Our clients are terrific. And business is growing strong.

Here in Southern McHenry County we hope you and your family, like us, will enjoy and every holiday. May you have fun family times, wonderful gatherings with friends, and a great end to your year. And don't forget to try to top our Christmas decorations. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!   

How Crucial Is Having a Safety Plan When Addressing Flood Damage Incidents in Southern McHenry County

11/9/2021 (Permalink)

Whether flooding is from a storm or an appliance malfunction, team SERVPRO can help. Call right away after an event to remediate the damage.

SERVPRO Identifies Safety Issues at Your Flooded Property and Finds Ways to Address Them during Restoration

The intensity of flooding incidents varies, thus resulting in different levels of damage to properties. The safety issues caused by such incidents in Southern McHenry county properties may not be very clear until restoration is underway, thus exposing people to unnecessary risks.

Safety issues vary, just like the destruction of homes due to weather. So you must come up with a unique safety plan before embarking on any restoration task. Hiring a professional like SERVPRO is a simple way to cover all bases since every member of our restoration team is trained about safety, thus equipping them with the skills to protect themselves, the structure, and anyone around the property.

Common safety issues after a flooding incident include:

• Damaged utilities such as severed gas or power lines
• Loss of structural strength in crucial structural areas 
• Presence of sharp objects like broken glass, exposed nails, and wood splinters
• Exposure to Asbestos-containing materials

The different safety hazards require distinct responses. Damaged utility lines require immediate action. For instance, turning off valves to stop gas supply and switching of electricity mains are crucial actions. Our SERVPRO technicians can readily locate the necessary valves or switches and also test the lines afterward to ensure there is no gas or power transmission.

Other safety hazards are better off left untouched until the correct solution is found. For ACM, Asbestos-containing materials, disturbance worsens the problem since it releases harmful fine residues. Our SERVPRO technicians help identify ACMs and also facilitate removal after establishing containment and using the right PPE.

Other steps necessary to establish safety during flood restoration include:

• Spraying EPA-registered disinfectants into any standing water left in the house
• Doing controlled demolition to release the water trapped within structural elements
• Organizing the loss site by zip-tying hoses and cables and collecting debris in trash large cans

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County take simple and advanced steps to guarantee safety during flood damage restoration. Call us at (847) 516-1600. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Advanced technology and techniques

9/26/2021 (Permalink)

Demolition at a Home

Demolition

We, at SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County invest in the latest technology and equipment because it helps us restore your home or business more quickly and efficiently while minimizing cost. We invest in technology such as a thermal camera that allows us to detect moisture inside walls, technology like rescue mats that help to extract water from your hardwood floors and allow them to be dried in place. SERVPRO puts time and money into researching and developing the absolute best products to help to clean and restore your home or workplace to preloss condition.

Having advanced technology regarding restoration products can reduce the amount of demolition and damage to your home. Rather than having to cut a hole in a wall to read the moisture we can detect it with a state-of-the-art thermal camera. This saves time, money and prevents unneeded demolition or archaic restoration methods.

The SERVPRO Standard

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Faster to Any Size Disaster

The SERVPRO Standard

Faster to Any Size Disaster

How familiar are you with SERVPRO? How about a little reminder about what we can do for you and your family? Did you know that with over 1,700 Franchises in the U.S. and Canada, SERVPRO is a trusted leader in the restoration industry and is dedicated to providing quality service..

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, we have highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs. 

Our highly trained technicians respond quickly, whether you need water damage restoration or simply need your upholstery cleaned. You can depend on us for these residential services and more:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Air Duct Cleaning
• Carpet Cleaning
• Cleaning Services
• Building Services

5 Reasons to Request the Professionals

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

5 Reasons to Request the Professionals

Water damage can be a minor irritant or a major problem, and even the minor irritants can become major issues if left untreated. Here are five basic reasons why you should dispense with the “do it yourself” approach and call in a professional.

• We can spot the small stuff. Not all sources of water damage are immediately apparent, and a good water damage mitigation company will be able to look at your home and determine from where the next major problem might come. Taking care of it now will save a lot of money in the long run.
• We explain the processes we use. A professional water restoration company will be able to explain in detail the procedure that they are going to utilize to remove the water, dry out the property, repair and restore everything that was damaged, and the steps to be taken to ensure that there are no long term issues.  Water damage repair and restoration can be an expensive project in virtually any scenario, so you want to be sure of exactly what you are paying for and the results that you should logically expect to see.
• You get a comprehensive treatment. It is almost never just the area directly affected by water that is the problem. Proper restoration treatment means being able to identify all the problems associated with the water damage and taking the steps to correct them. Some of these problems may be easily overlooked unless the technician is properly trained on what to look for and how to deal with it.
• A pro will take the measures necessary to prevent future damage. This would include informing you of necessary repairs, bringing in the subcontractors needed for the repairs, or perhaps treating the humidity level in a home to ward off mold growth. You want a company that can take these steps.
• A professional restoration company will recognize small problems and take care of them before they become major issues. One sunken floorboard can be repaired but left unattended may soon become a whole series of sunken boards. A pro understands the signs around your home that point to future issues.

Where did SERVPRO get its green color?

11/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Green

The restoration crews of SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County are always close by, helping to recover disasters in your area from fire, water and mold loss.  It’s hard to miss our green service vehicles as they drive through your local community.  But where did the green color come from?

In the early 1970s, the founders of SERVPRO® used a color chip paint sample chart to identify the most eye-catching color.  It was a highly technical process.  The founders showed the chart to as many people as they could and asked, “Which color on this chart would be impossible to miss?”  By a wide margin, the color most identified was 1970 rally green, a color used on Porsche 911 automobiles.

Now used on entire fleets of vehicles in every SERVPRO franchise across the nation from production vans to disaster recovery storm trailers, our vehicles are prepared for any size disaster. 

How Our Water Damage Process Sets Us Apart | SERVPRO® of SOUTHERN MCHENRY COUNTY

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage is something that can be extremely detrimental to your home for a multitude of reasons. Not only can it cause issues that are cosmetic in nature, but it can also give rise to mold and mildew growth as well as lead to structural issues when it is left untreated. Any time you are dealing with water damage, speed is key—the longer it sits, the more damage can be done.

Fortunately, seeking water damage restoration is easy when you choose to work with us. We are here 24 hours a day to take your damage call and provide unprecedented service that sets us apart. Here are some key reasons to choose us:

We Focus on All Aspects of Restoration

Water damage is rarely as simple as treating only where the water was found. In fact, the impact water damage has can be far-reaching and extend to parts of the home we can’t even see—but we have the equipment necessary to complete it properly. With infrared moisture detection devices, we can find water that is lurking anywhere in the home.

We Focus on Restoration Instead of Replacement

When you have water-damaged items, you may think that everything that has been impacted is a lost cause—but not when you depend on us. We focus on a restoration-first mentality, meaning we invest heavily in the equipment and expertise required to restore items instead of replacing them. We will do our best to save all that we can, and only resort to replacement if it is absolutely necessary.

We Focus on the Community

We have been active in the McHenry County community since 2000, and in that time, we have helped countless people reclaim their homes and businesses through restoration. We understand how difficult it can be to experience damage, and we provide everyone with compassionate and quality service throughout the restoration process to make sure your damage is completely taken care of.

If your home is damaged by water, we hope you will choose us to handle your restoration. You can always contact us to learn more about our processes or request a restoration team to come assess your damages. Contact us with our 24/7 emergency line today.

We Can Clean Your Home or Business

11/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County are trained professionals for cleaning for the Coronavirus

The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic has reminded all of us how important it is to properly clean the surfaces and objects we handle.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cleaning and disinfecting are separate processes. Cleaning removes dirt, oils and most surface germs. Disinfection kills (or deactivates) remaining germs.

SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County is qualified to clean and properly apply disinfectants according to the CDC’s protocols.

We have numerous years of experience in cleaning and disinfecting contaminants, including infectious bio hazards. We have specific training and the appropriate equipment to go beyond standard cleaning services.  More recently, our professionals received additional training certifications regarding COVID-19 decontamination.

Many SERVPRO cleaning products include products the CDC recommends for other coronaviruses (such as SARS).  The EPA has just added three more of our branded disinfectants to their approved product list!  Although there has not yet been product testing against COVID-19, we can assure our community in and around Boulder that we follow all of the CDC-recommended guidelines.

We clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as:

• Counters and tabletops
• Doorknobs
• Light switches
• Toilets & other bathroom fixtures (faucets, handrails, tubs & showers)
• Tablets, keyboards & other office (home or business) equipment

We also clean soft surfaces such as:

• Carpets & rugs
• Upholstered furniture
• Exercise mats

The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting the following areas:

• Kitchen & dining areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools, classrooms, conference rooms
• Retail spaces, including
• Sales counters
• Racks, shelves
• Hand-rails & elevator cars
• Flooring, regardless of material
• Water fountains
• Carpets, rugs
• Fitness equipment
• Playground equipment

Call SERVPRO for a Proactive Cleaning Today!

We care and are Ready To Respond!  SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County 847-5161600.

On Call 24/7 to Help You!

Why Many Insurance Agents And Adjusters Use SERVPRO

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Employee sitting with customer

We aim to make the insurance agent's and the claim adjuster's jobs easier

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County has worked with many insurance agents and claim adjusters. We understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claim costs down while providing the best services possible for your clients. Here are a few reasons we’re trusted by so many insurance agents and adjusters:

Fast Emergency Response
Restoring commercial or residential property is the first priority at SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County. Your insurance client will appreciate our immediate response and you will know we’re doing everything we can to limit the damage and the costs.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense
Like insurance agents and claim adjusters, we know restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Our goal is always to restore whenever possible and replace only when necessary. That’s why SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County performs pretesting on every loss so we can determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service
SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County can provide insurance agents and claim adjusters with an itemized loss inventory. We give you an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items. Your work is made simpler and clearer because we provide you with a complete and accurate picture of the incident.

Electronic Claims Information
Our corporate Claims Information Centerprovides the fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:
•    A complete electronic job file (by email or on paper)
o    First notice of loss
o    Detailed estimate
o    Digital loss photos
o    Scanned forms and paperwork
•    Informative reports (including job cost data) to improve results 
•    Performance comparison to industry standard

Superior, Time-Tested Training
Effective training is the best way to help ensure your clients receive the service they deserve. All SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County crews are trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration. We also conduct continuing education classes.  

Vendor Qualification Compliance and Professionalism
If you call SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County, we will use only qualified vendors to service your clients. Our commitment means you receive:
•    Access to the SERVPRO National Call Center to achieve prompt handling of your claims
•    Assurance that our crew uses industry best practices
•    Efficiencies through our insurance and file documentation requirements
•    The benefits of our quality assurance program

Serving Adjusters and Your Clients
A SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County professional's job is to reassure your clients, perform quality service, and report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim. We don’t want you to have to deal with problems from vendors. Working with you, we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you’re assigned. We offer you 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file within hours. SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County documented, measured performance increases value for you, your agency, your managers, and your clients.

Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry.

We are Cleaning Experts

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help.

SERVPRO 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 Southern McHenry County, 847-516-1600

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

A Look Back on the Last Nineteen Years

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County has been in business now for just over nineteen years! We were able to serve our first customer just nineteen years ago on June 1, 2000. So, to celebrate we are looking back with our owners Robert & Josephine Hammerschmidt and getting their thoughts on why they got started in the restoration business and what we have learned over these last nineteen years.

Why did you decide to get into the Restoration Business?

"There is a side of us that likes helping people. This was an opportunity to combine business and help people at the same time. When individuals are in the situation where they’ve got water damage or fire damage they are in a position where they are having a rotten day and they don’t know what to do. We have the opportunity to come in and have the know-how and the ability to help them recover and get to the point where they are getting back to normal. We basically get to help when they are in a desperate situation. SERVPRO had a system in place nationally that did this well."

What makes us different from other restoration companies?

"We take on the opportunity to help people in all situations. Whether it's a large loss, a commercial loss, residential, we take it all on, to help them. The other thing that I think makes us stand out a bit is we try to do everything needed. We try to take care of them from A to Z with every need that they have. So, any of the services they are in need of in those types of situations we cover. We try to be a one stop shop."

"A big part of that, but not the only part, is the reconstruction business. When individuals have these situations there are some mitigation companies that will mitigate, get them cleaned up or dried up, and then they will have to go find a way to rebuild, they'll have to find the reconstruction. But we take care of the reconstruction as well. So that is something that differentiates us."

"We do the mitigation needed and then put it back together "Like it never even happened.""

Tell us about your team!

"We have a very dedicated team. They are at the ready to take care of customers at any time of any day. They are very dedicated and focused on doing a good job for the customers. Customer service is key. Our core leadership team has been with us pretty much since the beginning. Some of our first hires are still with us."

What have you learned over the last 19 years?

"We have learned how to take care of any type of situation for any type of customer. We know the ins and outs of working with the insurance industry and working in a way that satisfies their requirements and their needs. We know how to partner with our insurance clients to take care of our customers."

"Working with insurance with claims like this can be intimidating for customers. We take that all out of the mix because we know what to do and how to do it. Partnering with agents and adjusters to take care of customers is a big part of what we do. It's not just the production of the work."

Looking back 19 years, what stands out most?

"What stands out is building a great team; lots of memories of jobs well done. We've been through a lot together as a team in terms of taking care of customers. We’ve had lots of jobs, lots of stories. The growth for our business in terms of vehicles, equipment and people has increased our capacity and know how. We have a lot of experience now. This positions us to better able to take care of any type of customer in any type of situation or circumstance. We are ready for whatever comes."

We just want to say thank you to all of the customers and agents we have had the chance to serve and work with over the last nineteen years. We are so glad we get to be a part of this great community and that we get to serve it every day.

Enjoy Your Holidays

12/1/2019 (Permalink)

Especially at this time of year, we believe in giving thanks and spreading joy. Our office Christmas decorations help with that.

At SERVPRO we work hard and we celebrate hard. We believe the best companies do their work well but also know how to appreciate life and the holidays with the most important asset in any company-- employees.

This year at SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County our employees challenged each other to see who could create the best Christmas wonderland in their office space. Most of us went wild with holiday decoration fun.

One employee's office features a snow pathway to his desk, Christmas presents, stuffed animals, and a colorful "JOY" sign.

Another employee wears her Santa hat, hung Christmas stockings, put down a glittering snow path way to her desk, and placed some of the most popular children's movie characters around her space. The Minions and Winnie the Pooh are bringing smiles to the office staff.

A third employee has made his brown desk look like the edges are dripping with frosting. At first glance some of us thought that desk was a gingerbread or cupcake desk, but we did not bite. A huge red bow dominates his main office wall. A row of bright poinsettia plants gives the office an outdoor feel.

Then there's the employee with many gold and silver stars twirling from her office ceiling. Over her desk is a snowy archway crowned with a bow. She's got Santa figurines and a snow globe. But in this office the favorite decoration by far is a huge box of candy canes. I wonder why.

A team of employees has taken a different approach. Their space is long and narrow with limited light (they need to limit the light for the screen work they do). Walk into their space and you're greeted with a ceiling and walls aglow with a few hundred colored Christmas lights. All the lights lead your eye to end of the space where you see a good-size fully decorated and lit Christmas tree.

Another well decorated area appears at the top of this post.

We think of this season as a time of thanksgiving and joy. In Southern McHenry County we have a lot to be thankful for and joyful about. Our staff consists of talented, dedicated, fun-to-work with people. Our clients are terrific. And business is growing strong.

Here in Southern McHenry County we hope you and your family, like us, will enjoy and every holiday. May you have fun family times, wonderful gatherings with friends, and a great end to your year. And don't forget to try to top our Christmas decorations. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!   

Franchise With A Nationwide Leader in Disaster Restoration 

11/24/2019 (Permalink)

If you have dreams of owning and operating your own business but lack the business experience, are hesitant to take the risk or just want to jump into operations without having to put forth too much effort into creating a successful business model, franchising may be for you. While you have plenty of franchises from which to choose, it may be worth your while to look into owning a SERVPRO Franchise. 

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO is a nationwide leader in Fire & Water Cleanup and Restoration and has been recognized by Entrepreneur as the #1 Franchise in Restoration Services since 2004. However, it didn't take that title overnight. SERVPRO has been around since 1967. During the past 40 plus years, it has focused on building and perfecting a business model that allows individuals to realize their dreams of owning a business that is molded around both their personal goals and lifestyle. When you own a SERVPRO Franchise, you get access to a proven business model but get the luxury of being in business for yourself. 

What Are the Benefits of Franchising?

Obviously, the number one benefit of franchising is the independence that comes along with business ownership. However, franchisees report several benefits that typical business owners don't recognize. Some of those benefits are as follows: 

• Fast Start. When you choose to franchise a SERVPRO, you get the advantage of starting your own business based on an established and proven business formula.
• Training. SERVPRO offers new franchisees and their employees the opportunity to attend a 15-day training course, at the end of which each attendee becomes a certified restoration expert.
• Expansion. Thanks to ongoing training opportunities and access to an extensive support system, SERVPRO franchisees can expand their businesses much easier than typical business owners. 

The SERVPRO Advantage

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Advantage

 “Hi, I need to file a claim”

The dreaded words no insurance agent or adjuster wants to hear because it usually means an accident or disaster has happened to your customer. After checking to see if they are alright, you will then begin to make some calls to make sure your customer is well taken care when they need you most. So how do you choose who to call when your customer is depending on you to make their disaster disappear?

By choosing SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County, your customer can rest in knowing that although damage is done, it’s certainly not irreversible. Since restoration is our first priority, we work by the rule to “Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary.” At SERVPRO, our professionals conduct pretesting to determine the restorability of every loss.

Our restore vs. replace approach guarantees a faster turnaround time that will get your customer back in their home quicker while also reducing the amount of claim costs. As an insurance professional, you’ll also appreciate holding us to our word through our transparent itemized loss inventory in an Excel formatted report. This report also includes photos of important items so you’ll know exactly what work was performed.

In addition to our itemized loss inventory, our Claims Information Center provides you with all of the necessary information to make the right decisions such as:

• A Complete Electronic Job File
• First Notice of Loss
• Detailed Estimate
• Digital Loss Photos
• Scanned Forms and Paperwork
• All delivered by email or hard copy
• Access to All Files
• New Assignments
• Pending Jobs
• Completed Jobs

With so many advantages and services SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County offers, it’s easy to see why we are the preferred disaster restoration company for so many insurance agencies. You and your customer can rest assured knowing our trained IICRC professionals are on the job and making your customer’s disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Digital Files Replace Paper for Increased Efficiency and Security

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Insurance agents play various roles, depending on which company they represent, but when the time comes to file an insurance claim, the related work can still be tedious and time-consuming. In the past, insurance companies have relied heavily on paper documents and files. However, many insurance companies and corporate partners have begun turning to electronic files, experiencing several important benefits.

• Quick access to vast information from a smartphone or laptop
• Diverse ways to search and organize information
• Ability to enter information at the agents' convenience
• Reduced paper consumption and waste

The Conversion to Electronic Files

SERVPRO has a digital claims center that has transformed the process of filing an insurance claim. Now, an insurance agent doesn't have to hunt through banks of filing cabinets looking for specific documents that may have been misfiled. Insurance companies aren't compelled to house vast histories of past filing. Rooms or warehouses full of filing cabinets and cases can be cleared out as they are converted into electronic file systems. 

The Trouble With Paper Files

Other common problems of relying on a paper system include protecting confidentiality, the difficulty of accessing information from similar cases in other states, and the clutter that reduces efficiency. Using the SERVPRO electronic Claims Information Center, it is much easier to access and share complete files or just the facts and figures from the documents. As paper documents are converted into electronic files, the need to maintain and work around file cabinets decreases. Agents in Cary and surrounding areas can complete each insurance claim without spending several minutes traveling or flipping through manila folders. 

The Issue of Security

Of course, security is one of the top concerns for SERVPRO corporate professionals and for insurance agencies. Fortunately, electronic files are generally more secure than paper copies. The ability to track and record access is much better digitally. From a single location, corporate security teams can keep an eye on who can see files and where information is shared. 

Converting information into electronic files helps insurance agents complete their work more quickly. As information is saved digitally, it is easier to use, to share, and to protect. It's a winning solution for everyone involved.

Being A Production Technician and the A,B,C’s For SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Our AMAZING production team!

Here we “grow” again! We love our current technicians here at SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County and so do our customers and clients. So much so that we’re growing our team of technicians! Exciting times here in Cary, IL! 

As you might imagine the job of a SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County Production Technician isn’t for the faint of heart. However the pay is good and there is potential for growth. Add to that the bonus of working with an amazing fun team and being the hero on somebody’s worst day! 

 So when we’re interviewing candidates here’s the ABC’s of what we’re looking for…

 #1 – Adaptable - adjective

• Capable of being or becoming adapted to new or varying situations.

“A Production Technician at SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County needs to be adaptable to situations from the dirty to the routine unremarkable workday. On any given day they may go from cleaning smoke and soot from a fire job to a water loss job extracting water and setting equipment to dry out. Or they may be shoveling out after a sewage backup or cleaning mold growth or moving contents from a home or business after a fire or water loss.  Any of these situations may require our technicians to work in a tight crawlspace or attic or may require they perform demolition or any combination of the aforementioned.” 

#2 – Aptitude - noun

• inclination, tendency  

• capacity for learning 
• general suitability 

“A Production Technician at SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County needs to have an aptitude for general cleanup and construction; Needs to be capable of learning industry specific applications and systems and; Needs to be suitable to the physical demands of the required duties.” 

#3 – Attitude - adjective

• a mental position with regard to a fact or state. 
• a feeling or emotion toward a fact or state. 
• a bodily state of readiness to respond in a characteristic way to a stimulus (such as an object, concept, or situation).

“A Production Technician at SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County needs to have a positive mental attitude when working with customers in crisis; when working on a large job and; when working during inclement, cold or hot weather.”

#4 – Awareness - noun

• the quality or state of being aware : knowledge and understanding that something is happening or exists.

“A Production Technician at SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County needs to be aware of their surroundings in their words, deeds and actions, for safety, successful job completion and customer service and satisfaction purposes.”

#5 – Balanced - adjective

• being in a state of balance : having different parts or elements properly or effectively arranged, proportioned, regulated, considered, etc. 

“A Production Technician at SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County needs to be able to balance home and work life to accommodate for on-call schedules, home life and personal recharging activities.”

#6 – Bright - adjective

• intelligent, clever
• auspicious, promising 

“A Production Technician at SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County needs to be able to use their resources to figure tricky situations out.”

#7 – Communicate - verb

 transitive verb

• to convey knowledge of or information about: to make known. 
• to reveal by clear signs. 

intransitive verb

• to transmit information, thought, or feeling so that it is satisfactorily received or understood by two or more parties.

“A Production Technician at SERVPRO® of Southern McHenry County needs to be able to convey relevant information to customers, teammates and superiors, either verbally or using written communication. Our technicians also need to excel at listening during training, when with customers and when working with teammates and superiors.”

Why You Want to Use SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN MCHENRY COUNTY for Carpet Cleaning.

12/12/2018 (Permalink)

Clean Carpet

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County has a variety of carpet cleaning methods to attack different kinds of carpet and stains. This service can clean short and long-piled carpets. We can precondition, rinse and treat carpet while keeping the color intact. Additionally, SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County is one of the few services available 24 hours a day for emergencies, offering both fire and water restoration services for both business and residential properties

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County of Southern McHenry County provides all the necessary services for commercial carpet cleaning. Whether you run an office space or a storefront, you can contract with SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County for carpet cleaning and several additional services. The company can perform maintenance cleaning, allowing you to have regular visits from a cleaning technician. Upholstery and rugs are also an easy service for SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County to tackle. If your business falls victim to fire or water damage, you can also hire this SERVPRO to help restore your space.

SERVPRO OF SOUTHERN MCHENRY COUNTY can help you clean the carpets and upholstery in your RV, boat or car. Other trouble spots such as tile and grout, air ducts and vents are also standard services for SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County. We have all the additional services to do leather cleaning. SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County can meet all of your cleaning needs. Please call us at 847-516-1600.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

"Like it Near Even Happened"

Why Choose SERVPRO?

 We understand you have the choice in deciding which restoration company you want when disaster occurs. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County responds immediately using the most advanced currently available equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. We closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly by using our advance software applications.

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County is dedicated to responding immediately to water emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

We're Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO specializes in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage restoration training with an emphasis on monitoring and documenting the drying process until completion.

• Water Damage Restoration Certified Technician
• Applied Structural Drying  specialized Technicians

We Use Most Advanced and Current Water Restoration Equipment and Techniques

Our advanced equipment helps to detect hidden moisture, extract the standing water quickly, and thoroughly clean and dry your home and belongings. We finish the job with professional deodorization and sanitizing agents for your comfort and safety.

When disaster strikes your home or business, get the professionals. Call SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County at 847-516-1600 today. 

Why Use SERVPRO Professionals for Mold and Mildew?

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

BACKGROUND: Mold grows in filaments called “hyphae”, and a network of these hyphae are called a “mycelium”. The "hyphal tip" is the part that eats bacteria.

Disinfectants work by killing the bacteria that the mold’s hyphal tip absorbs. What does that mean, exactly? Disinfectants first stop the growth of mold by preventing there from being a food source (the bacteria).

With regards to mold control paints, those will prevent the growth of mildew and mold, but won’t stop or kill existing mold necessarily, so it is important to have your walls treated and washed BEFORE applying this kind of paint. (Don’t know how to treat your walls for such a project? That’s where SERVPRO comes in!)

There is a crash course in mold on our blog if you want to arm yourself with even more knowledge.

But what about existing mold? Well, if the mold is growing on a non-porous surface (think linoleum), the disinfectants will kill the mold, and when it’s removed, you don’t have to worry about regrowth. It is only on non-porous surfaces that bleach can be used as a disinfectants; for any other surfaces, professional-grade equipment and solutions are the standard.

On a porous surface (think wood) the roots of the hyphae are deeper inside, which means spraying and removing it won’t be as effective, and regrowth is a possibility. Letting a treatment sit over a period of time will discourage mold growth, and kill the roots of the mold inside the structure.

Do's:

• Stay out of all affected areas
• Turn off HVAC system and turn off all fans

Dont's:

• DO NOT touch or disturb areas with mold or water damage.
• DO NOT blow any air across affected surfaces
• DO NOT attempt to dry the areas yourself.
• DO NOT pour bleach on or utilize any other disinfectants onto the mold.

If you suspect a mold issue, let our skilled team of professionals at SERVPRO know.

Call us at 847-516-1600.

Happy holidays!

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Happy holidays!

The holidays are in full effect! Which means love, laughter, spreading cheer and family celebrations. Except, some holidays bring unforeseen disasters like a water heater leaks, a frozen pipe, Christmas tree fire or your burnt turkey . You really just never know what's going to happen, but that's why SERVPRO is a nationwide franchise. We run by expecting the unexpected. We also take pride in knowing that we are faster to any size disaster. The holidays are the worst time to add any more stress other than decorating and figuring what presents to get who. If you've used our services in the past, we want to thank you! You're part of the reason we can keep doing this day in and day out. We want to make your life easier, especially around the holidays. SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County is here for YOU! Have a happy holiday.

Ten Reasons to Use SERVPRO

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Detailed Reporting

Businesses and people rely on SERVPRO to quickly restore damaged property for many reasons. Here they are just 10.

1. We Get It
SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County understands your situation. You want to keep costs down, repair the damage, and get back to normal. Those are our goals, too.

2. We Respond To You Immediately
You can reach us 24/7. When a disaster strikes we respond as quickly as possible and can draw on more than 1,700 U.S. and Canadian locations to get the right equipment and right professionals to you faster than other companies.

3. SERVPRO Is Qualified
Our restoration and repair team members have the best training in the industry. Our results will create a significant difference for you.

4. You’re Part Of Our Team
We work with you and for you. You are in charge. You receive a complete explanation of the work we will do and why it needs to be done a certain way. Like you, we don’t appreciate surprises.

5. We Use The Latest Advance Technology
The past few years we have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County to restore your property to preloss condition reliably, quickly and more effectively.

6. We Practice The Golden Rule Of Restoration
Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County professionals practice the golden rule, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." We make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.

7. For Claim And Other Purposes, Your Loss Is Itemized
SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County can give you and your insurance adjuster an itemized loss inventory. You will receive a Xactware Contents tracking report with pictures of important items.

8. We’ll Help You Prevent Losses, Not Just Deal With Them
Our services start with prevention. We’ll come out to your business or home and do a review of how you can protect yourself, your family, your business, and your property from potential losses. There’s another old rule we like: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Check out the SERVPRO Ready Plan.

9. We Handle Any Loss From A Natural Disaster—Big Or Small
Have multiple locations? No problem. Suffer a small loss from water or fire or wind? We can handle it. Have a massive, complex disaster to recover from? That’s within our scope of services, too.

10. We’re Approved, Certified, And Experienced
We’re trained to IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our professionals attend SERVPRO continuing education classes. SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County has been in business for more than 17 years serving the Southern McHenry County and surrounding area. Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO a leader in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry.

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County
IICRC Certified
Call 847-516-1600
24 hour emergency service

picture source - xactware.com

Three Reasons Why to Use SERVPRO for Your Commercial Loss  

12/1/2018 (Permalink)

We are ready to help

When a commercial building is in good condition, real estate property managers, landlords or business owner won’t expect the smallest water leak in the ceiling to cause a major problem. However, an unforeseen pipe bursting can cause a catastrophe due to flooding. Water damage is a major disaster and, if not properly handled, it can cause a building to have mold and a deteriorating structure due to water damage.

Here are three reasons to use SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County to restore, clean, and repair commercial buildings after water damage:

• Avoid Loss of Business: When a flood happens, business owners aren’t prepared to close up shop and lose business over it. With this in mind, professionals who work closely with commercial restoration will help bring your businesses back up and running. SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County offers cleaning services to help restore businesses and have them quickly back up and running without major damage. “Like Never Even Happen”

• Remove The Water Damage: To fix the situation in a timely manner, property owners, landowners or business owner hire professionals who specialize in water damage restoration to repair the structure, flooring, and any items that can be saved. SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County is here to help with water damage restoration and cleanup restoration.
• Prevent Further Damage: Water damage can cause an unpleasant odor; it also sinks into the walls and flooring causing discoloration and mold. Drying the area with excessive heat causes humidity to increase; this leads to bacteria. To prevent this, commercial businesses must act quickly as possible by calling an emergency cleaning/restoration service.

SERVPRO of Southern McHenry County restoration services include water damage restoration, mold remediation, storm restoration, fire damage repair, and commercial cleaning services. Their professionals understand how important it is to fix an emergency situation and keep a business operating. To schedule an appointment, call them at (847) 516-1600.