Recent Posts

Dealing With Sewage Leaks the Safe Way | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

sewage water pooling on a kitchen floor after a leak SERVPRO of Alamo Heights is always ready to respond to your call when biohazard incidents strike.

When it comes to smells, sewage leaks are at the top of the list of the most unpleasant odors to have in your home or business. In addition to the gross factor, having sewage where it shouldn’t be can also be incredibly dangerous to your health.

Unfortunately, sewage leaks can happen unexpectedly, which means your home or property is always vulnerable to situations like these. Tackle your sewage leaks with confidence by following these tips that will help keep you safe and in control.

The Discovery

Sewage is meant to flow down and away from our home in secure pipe systems. If this process happens the way it should, you would never have to even think about it on a daily basis! However, if your pipe lines get clogged or blocked in any way, wastewater cannot flow in the direction it should, which can cause it to back up into your sinks, tubs and toilets. Sewage leaks can also happen if you have a compromised or loose pipe somewhere.

No matter how the leak or backup starts, it is crucial that you stay out of the water. There are three different types of water, and they are categorized by how dangerous they are to handle without the proper protection. Not surprisingly, sewage is considered the most dangerous kind of water, which is called black water. It can harbor viruses, bacteria and microbes that can be deadly.

If you can access the water shutoff valve for the pipe, do so right away to stop the water from continuing to flow onto your floors. After the situation has been stopped, open up windows and turn on fans to help the fumes escape. Block off the area and keep your family or customers out of the way while you work on getting in touch with us.

Where SERVPRO's Restoration Team Comes In

We are proud to help our community recover from disaster, but we are also here for the slinkier or more dangerous situations like biohazard leaks or spills. Sewage is certainly a biohazard, so we want you to call us as soon as you discover the leak. We will start gathering our supplies and team right away and then be on our way to you.

While you wait for us to show up at your house, snap a few photos of the current situation. While these images will probably not become the home screen for your phone anytime soon, it is important to have them so you can show your insurance company once your claim process has begun.

We will focus first on identifying the source of the leak and then we will work on removing the standing water from your floor. We will be sure to wear the proper PPE so everyone in the area can stay safe while we work.

Our cleaning crew will focus on removing the dangerous water, and we will also sanitize the entire space so that it is safe for you to return to normal operations when we are finished. We can also deodorize your entire space to remove even the most stubborn lingering odors. Finally, we can address any structural issues if the water caused any damage to your floors, walls or structural components.

Sewage leaks are no joke, so don’t hesitate to call us so we can take care of your entire situation quickly.

Sewage leaks should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO, and we will take care of you.

Raise the Alarm! Getting Ready for Spring Weather | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

heavy rain pouring down on an outdoor metal roof in a storm Let SERVPRO of Alamo Heights help you get from April showers to May flowers.

The sun is out longer, the flowers are ready to bloom and the days are warmer. It’s springtime in the Alamo Heights community! While we can appreciate the change in season, it also means that we have to be ready for the arrival of spring storms.

Loud, rumbling thunderstorms, gentle rainfall and severe weather are all possible at this time of year, so it is important to make sure you are informed of the forecast at all times.

Our team explains some easy ways to stay connected when severe weather is in the area, so read on to learn how you can arm yourself with the alerts you need to stay safe.

Utilizing the Internet

The world is at our fingertips every day, which can be extremely helpful when it comes to staying connected with what is going on around us. Our phones are equipped with a Wireless Emergency Alert system that can automatically be issued if there is severe weather in our area. In addition, you should have at least one reliable weather app that you can reference every day.

Apps can be a great way of receiving the daily forecast, but be warned! Not all apps are created equally and there are definitely some out there that tend to exaggerate forecasts for engagement, so stick with the apps that are run by nationally recognized organizations or local sources.

The news and the television are also great ways to stay connected. When severe weather is predicted or a watch is issued, tune into our local news stations to watch the system develop and move across the area. Watching the storm in real-time can help you make travel or sheltering decisions exactly when you need to.

When the Power Goes Out

If we lose power, it can create more trouble for you if you aren’t prepared. Your TV will stop working, and your phone and computer will only be reliable until the battery runs out. This is why we recommend every household to have another way of receiving alerts that doesn’t require power to function.

If you live near a weather siren, take the time to walk around your house during the next test to see if you can hear the siren from every room in your home. You should also consider purchasing an NOAA weather radio.

Weather radios are a popular choice because they are often hand crank-powered or have solar power capabilities, which means you can stay connected no matter how long the power is out. You can also take the radio with you as you head to shelter or walk around your property after the storm passes.

We hope you take the time to prepare your home and family for the upcoming spring weather season, but remember that we are always here to help you if your home suffers any sort of damage. Call us for a quick and complete recovery!

Serious storms can cause serious property damage. Call SERVPRO® 247 for immediate restoration assistance.

Tackling Disaster Recovery for Your Commercial Property | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

2/15/2024 (Permalink)

business man in office talking to female SERVPRO rep SERVPRO of Alamo Heights is here for your business every step of the way, from ERPs to disaster recovery.

It can be really overwhelming to think about the potential of suffering from a disaster situation at your business. You do so much on a daily basis to ensure everything is running smoothly that it can keep you up at night to think of how destructive a simple fire, flood or a storm can be to your property.

While we can’t prevent natural disasters or true accidents from happening, we can help you recover from them! SERVPRO of Alamo Heights is here 247 to handle your entire restoration from start to finish, no matter how extensive the damage is.

Easy Preparation Tips

The best way to ensure a quick recovery after disaster strikes is to have a plan already in place and to ensure your employees to know what to expect. If your team knows what to do, everyone can respond appropriately and that can help with a smooth transition from disaster to recovery.

One important aspect of your plan should center around communication. Have a reliable way of spreading information quickly, via either an email chain, group text or announcement, and make sure everyone who has specific jobs understands what is expected of them.

This should also include taking a tour of your building to point out important things like fire extinguishers, emergency exits and water shut-off valves. Even if you have a custodial or maintenance staff that would normally handle emergencies, it can add another layer of protection if your team can respond just as fast.

Finally, your communication plan should include steps on what to do and where to go following a disaster situation. Set up remote work policies or have a backup location in mind that your team can travel to if in-person work is necessary for your business.

Tips for Recovery

If you have a plan, you can rest assured that your business will be on the path to recovery faster than if you simply reacted to the situation at hand. We will work off of that recovery plan and help restore and rebuild your home quickly.

We will focus on rebuilding your physical location so you can focus on your customers and employees. Communicate with them throughout the process and keep the information flowing so everyone knows what is going on and when you expect to be open again.

While you might have to immediately be displaced from your building, chances are that we will be able to get you back into your space quickly, even if it is in a limited capacity for a time. We will work with you so you can minimize your downtime while we still are able to work how we need to.

Always have a plan in place for various disaster situations, but remember that we are here to help you overcome any damage your business suffers. We are trained in large-loss recovery, and we will take great care of you.

Has your business experienced a disaster, or do you want help building an emergency plan? Contact us to find everything you need.

Tackling Any Damage at Any Time | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

heavy rain pounding down on a blacktop surface SERVPRO of Alamo Heights is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!

When disasters occur at home, they pretty much always take us by surprise. After all, who expects a fire or a flood to impact their daily life?

Unfortunately, disasters can come in all shapes and sizes and can be really overwhelming to deal with. Mother Nature, home accidents or manmade disasters can have a huge impact on your home.

Thankfully, recovery is just a single phone call away. SERVPRO of Alamo Heights is here to make sure your home is restored and repaired quickly and efficiently.

The Impact of a Single Disaster

The toll that a disaster can take can range from a minor inconvenience to a completely overwhelming experience. Even if you were prepared for the situation, it can still cause more damage than you could have anticipated.

A single heavy rain can lead to serious flooding, which can lead to structural damage and mold infestations. A high wind can knock out power for hours but can also rip off shingle or damage your siding. A house fire can cause widespread damage but can also lead to lingering soot or smoke throughout your entire house.

No matter your situation, responding quickly is essential. Damage situations tend to get worse the longer you wait to address them, so that’s why we encourage you to call us the moment you discover the situation at hand.

A Single Team for the Entire Repair

Timing matters, which is why we are here 247, 365 days a year to respond to your call for help. Our team will prioritize your situation as soon as we make contact with you and we will focus on gathering the right team for the job as soon as possible.

Our highly trained technicians have the experience and knowledge to handle whatever your disaster situation requires. We are locally owned and operated, which means that we not only can be at your home quicker, but we have firsthand experience of restoring homes in our community and your neighborhood.

If your roof is damaged in a storm, we can handle laying tarps over the exposed part of your home while also removing your possessions to protect them from further damage. If you experience a flood, our team will work quickly to remove the excess water while also saving your soft materials and personal keepsakes.

We can also even handle tearing down and rebuilding entire sections of your home if the damage is too extensive. We have you covered from basement to attic.

Another benefit of working with us is that we get the privilege of being your crew from start to finish. Since we can handle every single aspect of your restoration, there is no need to be working with multiple contracts and agreements with other contractors!

Our team will take care of you no matter your situation. When the rain comes pouring in or a house fire leaves you stressed, call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights and we will make sure sunnier days are right around the corner.

Have you experienced a disaster and need restorations? Make one call to our office to start recovery fast.

Feeling Chilly? Stay Fire-Safe and Warm This Season | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

brick chimney with lit fire logs Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Alamo Heights this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

Texas weather can be really unpredictable in the winter time and bring serious ice storms and snow or remain mild and sunny. In any case, the nights do get cold and many of us run to our fireplaces and spaces heaters to cuddle up.

While it is important to stay warm throughout the winter, it is also important to do your part in reducing your risk of suffering a house fire! SERVPRO of Alamo Heights explains below some reliable ways to stay warm while also staying safe around your fireplace and space heaters.

Fireplace Preparation Tips

What could be better than a softly crackling fire on a cold winter’s night? Unfortunately, fireplaces can be downright dangerous if they are not prepared or maintained properly. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, prioritize cleaning it out regularly to remove ash buildup and creosote residue from the walls. Your chimney should also be professionally inspected every season to make sure it is not cracking or experiencing any issues.

Remove flammable materials from your mantle, and clear a path in front of the hearth that is free of rugs or other possessions. If your fireplace is run by gas or electricity, install a carbon monoxide detector nearby and check the gas or electric lines often for signs of leaks or loose connections.

Space Heater 101

Did you know that space heater accidents account for over 1,700 house fires every year? That’s a lot of preventable fires! The key to keeping a fire-free home when you use space heaters is to set them up in a safe location.

The spot you choose should be a hard and level surface and certainly nonflammable. Check the cord for any fraying or loose wiring and then lay it flat or tape it down to avoid creating a tripping hazard.

At this time, you should also create a three-foot barrier around the heater to keep out kids and pets and keep flammable materials like couch cushions and low-hanging curtains far out of the way. Designate one person to be in charge of turning off your space heater before going to bed!

Additional Safety Measures to Incorporate

It is important to remember that there are many different space heaters on the market and not all of them are created equally. Cheaper doesn’t always mean a good value, and lofty claims like fire-resistant don’t always hold true. This is why it is crucial to do your research!

Research different companies to ensure they have passed their necessary safety certifications and are verified by the Better Business Bureau. You should also read reviews of their products, including for the heater in question.

Different safety features can also be helpful, like an emergency shutoff feature. This switch will immediately turn off your heater after a certain period of time and can be a great back up if you have a hard time remembering to do tasks. Finally, inspect the cord of the heater you are researching to make sure it is well-made and is securely attached to the heater.

We hope you have a safe and warm winter season! If you wind up suffering from any sort of fire damage, call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights right away for a quick restoration. We will expertly remove damaged debris, save your possessions and rebuild your home from the ground up.

A quick fire damage restoration is just a phone call away. Call SERVPRO for immediate assistance.

Locating Water Leaks With Confidence | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

close up of condensation on window pane and ledge Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.

Water is a huge part of our lives, and we use it in so many different ways in our homes. We use it to run the dishwasher, warm up baths for the kids and pets and even to wash our cars on a nice summer day. While we are grateful for this easy access to water, it also means that the potential of suffering a water leak is possible.

Water leaks can be really frustrating and can cause serious damage in a short amount of time. Knowing where to look for leaks can help you stay in control and prevent the situation from getting worse while you wait for us to arrive.

Checking the Sink

Faucets, taps and your dishwasher all have important roles in your home, and they all need to use water in order to function. This means that there are water lines running to and from your home all over the place.

If a leak starts under your sink, it will seep into your cupboards, run behind your walls and get under your floorboards. Once it’s there, it can cause further structural damage and compromise your home. Try to get in the habit of checking the water lines under your sinks whenever you are deep-cleaning a space to check for drips or puddles.

Beneath Appliances and Fixtures

We all have at least one appliance in our homes that relies on water to function, and your risk for suffering a water leak spikes every time you turn it on. Dishwashers, water heaters, washing machines and ice makers are all prone to water leaks that can lead to frustrating and widespread damage.

In order to catch these kinds of leaks, pull your appliances away from the wall regularly to check for signs of moisture like puddles, mold growth or water stains. Do this every time you are deep-cleaning your house so you can take action right away if you notice an emerging problem.

Behind Your Walls or Under Floors

If a leak starts somewhere in your home, you definitely would prefer for it to happen in a place that is easily accessible and easy to see. Unfortunately, since your water lines are mostly behind finished walls and under floors, leaks could happen there at any time and could go unnoticed. That means you could be dealing with some serious issues if you don’t catch it for a while!

If you notice that your wall is starting to show a dark spot or you smell a musty odor when you walk by your bathroom, it’s time to do a little investigating.

Around Doors and Windows

Condensation can build up quickly around window panes when the temperature rises and falls drastically. While that is a natural process, it can cause excess moisture to linger on your windowsills that can warp your wood and soak into your drywall.

Moisture can also get into your home through any gaps, cracks or sagging around your windowpanes and doorframes. Check these areas seasonally and fix any gaps with fresh caulk.

Unfortunately, water has a mind of its own and can cause damage to your home at any time. Thankfully, all you have to do is pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights for a quicker and more reliable restoration. Our team will remove standing water and hidden moisture with ease and tackle your repairs right away to help you make a full recovery.

Don’t ignore signs of water damage! Call SERVPRO® for a quick restoration.

Your Hometown Restoration Team | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

12/15/2023 (Permalink)

group of 3 SERVPRO reps standing near a green semi truck at a work site No job is too big or too small for our team of industry leading experts at SERVPRO of Alamo Heights!

Just the sheer thought of suffering a home or business disaster can keep a lot of us up at night with worry. The potential for damage, the threat of a dangerous situation and simply the cost of recovery is enough to stress out any property owner.

When you are faced with recovery after a disaster, you deserve to have a team that will help you every step along the way.

That’s where SERVPRO of Alamo Heights steps in to help out. Our local restoration team is here 247 to respond to your emergency, and we will be here for you always.

Making an Informed Choice

Suffering from a home disaster can elicit all kinds of emotions. Frustration, anger and feeling overwhelmed can force anyone to make quick or unresearched decisions, especially when the clock is ticking. However, slowing down and doing your research before choosing a restoration company can make all the difference when it comes to your recovery.

You deserve to get back to your normal life as fast as possible, and the right restoration service can help you do that. They should have plenty of experience, the right certifications and training and are willing to do whatever it takes to help you. They should also be available 247!

SERVPRO of Alamo Heights proudly checks all of those boxes, but also offers the helpful benefit of being locally owned and operated. We are your reliable restoration team, yes, but we are also your friends and neighbors who love this community just like you do.

We have first-hand experience of what it takes to clean up from area-specific disasters like floods and severe weather, and we will make sure you are taken care of every step of the way.

The Experience You Deserve

While having a friendly and familiar face arrive at your door is comforting after a disaster, SERVPRO® also comes with the additional benefit of having the resources of a national brand. Our neighboring branches will always be there for us to ensure we have the team, the resources and the equipment to help you recover.

SERVPRO has been in business since 1967 and has grown exponentially over the last few decades. Today, there are over 2,000 locations, including ours here in the Alamo Heights neighborhood.

We only hire the best, so when our team arrives at your door, you can rest easy knowing that our team is trained specifically for your particular disaster situation. Our team offers the total package when it comes to restoration!

We will take care of everything from the initial boarding up and tarping of your home to prevent further damage all the way to the final repairs on your walls, floors and ceilings. We also only use the top-of-the-line equipment and are always training to provide you with the best service possible.

Don’t let home damage stand in your way when your neighborhood restoration team is here to help! Call us today.

Want to learn more about everything we can do for you? Contact us to be prepared for anything.

Tackling Water Damage at Work | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

concrete floor tiling with large cracks and water on it Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of Alamo Heights a call to get that resolved!

You head into work for the day and start your process of flipping on lights and unlocking doors, only to be surprised by a musty odor and standing water all over your storefront floor.

No one expects to walk into a water disaster at work, but dealing with the situation quickly is always necessary to prevent serious and lasting damage.

Whether the flood occurred due to a plumbing failure or a natural disaster, recovering fast can help you avoid long-term closures and experience less damage to your business overall. Follow these tips to help get things cleaned up in no time at all.

The First Important Steps

Finding your business flooded in any capacity can be frustrating, even if it was predicted. Stay calm and try to focus on what needs to happen first.

1. Stay safe. Safety is always your priority no matter the situation, so keep your employees out of the area and avoid walking through the water yourself as you assess the situation. SERVPRO of Alamo Heights immediately, and we will start gathering the necessary information and organizing a team to get out to your business. You should also take some photos right away while the damage is still fresh.

2. Control the disaster. Acting quickly can help you avoid those really frustrating and impactful damages. Identify the source of the leak, and stop the flow of water as quickly as you are able to. Find the appropriate water valve and turn it off, and if you can’t, shut off the main water valve to your entire building for the time being.

3. Start the drying process. Floodwater can be carrying toxic materials, so try to stay out of the water while you walk around the area to open windows and remove fragile items from harm’s way.

Work With SERVPRO on Your Restoration

Our team will get right to work removing water from every surface. We will also do a total assessment of your space to ensure we are getting the hidden water behind your walls or under your floors. We will work directly with your insurance company as well so you don’t have to worry about anything other than your well-being and the well-being of your staff.

We often find ways to contain the area so you can still operate in a reduced capacity. We know that extended closures have a massive impact on your business, so we work with you to find solutions that end in success for everyone involved.

Once your building is dry, we can address any necessary repairs like fixing warped floors, replacing ruined carpet and even rebuilding sections of your space. We will make sure your property is dried and repaired to your satisfaction.

Do you need repairs after a water disaster in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.

Understanding Home Damage Threats | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

11/16/2023 (Permalink)

residentail home with roof destroyed and debris falling down If you discover damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of Alamo Heights right away.

The threat of home damage is always present, even if it is a seemingly normal day with no severe weather forecasted or other potential issues present. Burst pipes, house fires and even broken windows from an errant golf ball can occur in the blink of an eye.

Even with the potential risks we could experience every day, we can’t live in a state of anxiety. Natural disasters and other disaster events aren’t always predictable, but being prepared for them can help you avoid more extensive damage.

SERVPRO of Alamo Heights is here to help! We can restore your home no matter what happens. We explain a bit more about the different damage we see most often and how we can help you recover.

The Biggest Risks for San Antonio Residents

We can experience all kinds of weather in our community, including tornadoes, heavy rain and strong winds. We are at a heightened risk for flooding issues due to our proximity to the San Antonio River. We are also at risk of water damage and fire damage from everyday mishaps and accidents.

Water damage can occur when Mother Nature intervenes in the form of flooding concerns and rain water leaks, but it can also happen when an appliance leaks or a pipe bursts in your home. House fires can also be caused by natural sources like when lightning strikes, but they are most commonly started by error or a household accident.

When Damage Continues to Get Worse

The initial disaster situation can be frustrating enough, but oftentimes that situation can lead to other frustrating issues. For example, flooded basements or rain leaking down your walls can lead to serious water damage, but it can also lead to mold infestations behind your walls if the water isn’t completely dried up.

The same is true for fire, as the flames will certainly damage your home, but smoke and residual soot will travel to parts of your home that were never touched by the flames. In addition, water damage is also a common aspect of fire damage restoration because water is often used to put out the flames!

Home damage situations are never simple, but we can handle your recovery no matter what. We are trained to restore, repair and recover your home from the initial cleaning to the final reconstruction.

When a water disaster strikes, we will work on removing the excess water and saving your possessions. This also includes odor removal, mold mitigation and sanitization needs to ensure your property is fully restored.

When a fire breaks out, we are trained to handle the debris removal right alongside soot and smoke removal, as well as water extraction and damage repair. We can even handle full reconstructions of entire rooms or levels of your home!

Working with us makes your recovery simple because you only have to work with one company during your entire restoration! We have the tools, training and team members to handle every aspect of your reconstruction from start to finish.

Does your home need restoration and you don’t want to make more than one call? Contact us to get everything handled by one team.

The Importance of a Solid Emergency Plan | SERVPRO of Alamo Heights

11/16/2023 (Permalink)

clip board with a disaster preparedness checklist and emergency supplies in the background Are you prepared for disaster? SERVPRO of Alamo Heights is here for you when disaster strikes!

Did you know that there has been an overall increase in natural disasters in the last five years? According to the statistics, natural disasters are not only happening more frequently, but they are also becoming stronger and more dangerous.

If you are lucky enough to have avoided a natural disaster situation at your business, planning now for the possibility can help you handle the situation better when it does occur.

Staying ahead of the risks and creating a reliable emergency plan can help you and your staff respond faster during a true emergency situation.

Why a Plan Matters

Since natural disaster situations are becoming more common, creating your plan can keep your family safe and can even reduce the risk of your property suffering significant damage. Taking action against the possibility of flooding, wind or fire damage before it happens can help in a huge way.

Disaster situations can have a significant impact on your business when it comes to the sheer amount of damage suffered, but it can also be a strain on you financially when it comes to restoration costs and any necessary closures that come with that.

Planning ahead also means that you can get back to work faster after a disaster strikes. Some businesses that suffer significant damage close their doors and never reopen them. We certainly don’t want that to happen to you and your livelihood!

Building an Emergency Ready Plan

SERVPRO® has the perfect solution for helping businesses like yours prepare for emergencies. Our Emergency Ready Plan can be tailored to your business’ specific needs and can be detailed enough to outline every possible disaster situation.

Our team will assess your business to understand the different risks associated with your day-to-day routine. For example, if your business works with chemicals a lot, we will create a robust chemical safety plan but also include information on how to control a chemical fire and how to get out of your building quickly.

Your plan will also include what to do before, during and after a disaster. This may include keeping important paperwork in an easy-to-reach area or having your employees have “go bags” that they can grab if they need to make a quick exit.

Communication is key during an emergency situation, so we will also include a section in your Emergency Ready Plan that lays out the chain of command and who is in charge of what. If you have specific people in charge of important tasks like calling 911 or grabbing the fire extinguisher, it can help minimize your situation and keep everyone in control.

The Emergency Ready Plan is the total package! Your business deserves to weather any emergency situation as smoothly as possible, and we can help you do that. We will help you prepare for whatever comes your way to minimize losses and protect the future of your business.

Ready to create your Emergency Ready Plan for your business? Contact us for your free assessment to start the plan you need.