We all get cleaned up for the first day of school

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Mountains is always extremely proud to help our local schools get their carpets ready to welcome back our kids to their classrooms.

We all like to look our best and wear new cloths for the first day of classes – including the schools themselves.

During the summer months, our local schools and colleges are busy painting, replacing, and cleaning. Furniture is cleaned or replaced, equipment is upgraded, walls painted and of course carpets and other flooring types are cleaned.

Despite meticulous planning and coordination, delays and setbacks always occur. The last weeks before students return is always hectic, and everyone is trying to get ready on time.

Usually, the last thing to be complete before school starts is to clean the carpets.

Carpet cleaning can really improve the indoor air quality and the health of the occupants. Professional cleaning can remove the dust, dander and other pollutants that dirty carpet can release.

With the arrival of Covid, it has become is even more important to remove these debris that can harbor germs and bacteria. The cleaning detergents and hot water rinse used can help restore carpets to its best appearance and condition.

SERVPRO of The Mountains is always extremely proud to help our local schools get ready. Fresh cleaned carpets help safely welcome back our kids to their classrooms.

That means on the first day of school, we are all looking and feeling our best!

Who do you call when your Structure is not well?

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

This clinic in Hartwell, Ga was flooded by a broken water pipe, SERVPRO OF The Mountains assisted removing more than 200 gallons of water.

Knowing when to call the doctor when you are not feeling well is something we have all been taught whether through experience or our mother’s instruction. The questions is, how do we know when our home or business is not feeling well? When this small Family clinic arrived in the morning to get ready for their day, they discovered about 200 gallons of standing water preventing them from caring for their patients. Removing all that standing water was the top priority in preventing further damage and getting the clinic back up and running. Your local SERVPRO of The Mountains received the call and immediately responded, dispatching our local highly trained technicians. These technicians are always ready to go, often in the middle of the night to keep homes and businesses in your community thriving.

A little soot goes a long way

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Soot and smoke can often times cause more damage than the fire itself. Call SERVPRO of the Mountains for consultation on soot removal.

Thankfully, we have amazing technology like smoke and fire alarms, both which have saved many lives and do a great job alerting us to threats. Home and places of business should all be equipped with fire alarms, extinguishers, and escape equipment.

The volunteer firemen in our communities are the first to respond, but also the last line of defense. These amazing people, many of which are our neighbors, respond at any time of day or night to quickly extinguish flames.

These indispensable resources and people have been so skilled and proficient, that the incidents of total fire loss have declined compared to the number of structure fires.

That said, small fires are still a large problem.  

As the fire is burning, it produces soot in the smoke and vapor cloud that it created. Soot is the residue of the burnt material that was converted to heat or vapor.

That sooty residue makes the qualities of the materials burned stand out more.

Naturally occurring materials that come from God’s creation tend to burn more completely. They produce a grey ash that is “cleaner”. The natural soot is also more powdery and generally easier to remove.

Materials that are not naturally occurring such as plastic, rubber, and artificial fibers generally include varying amounts of petroleum bases. Those types of materials burn slower and often burn less completely than natural materials.  

The soot that is left behind is much messier, often being oily, greasy, and smears when touched. This soot is much more difficult to remove.

More care and effort are needed to remove and properly clean this type of soot, which is why special products, tools, and supplies are required.  

If you were to have the unfortunate event of a fire, try to refrain from cleaning it. Using improper methods and tools can actually “set” the soot and staining in surfaces.

Call your friendly neighborhood SERVPRO professional for a quick, FREE and thorough fire damage consultation. We can assist with determining what can be cleaned, what methods to use and what results to expect.

Call today!

Things to Consider About Disaster Recovery at Your Business | SERVPRO® of The Mountains

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO The Mountains is your go-to in case a disaster occurs. Get in touch with us to learn more.

Business owners have so many decisions to make throughout their daily operations, but part of being a good owner is thinking about the future. When it comes to things that would slow down your production and productivity, it is especially important. Many times, these things are disasters that are out of your control. It is not uncommon for business that are faced with disasters to not recover from them, but those to create plans and think ahead come out much better in the aftermath.

People are the priority and of the utmost importance when disaster comes. Creating a plan of evacuation and having emergency procedures in place is super important. After you have those in place, it is time to begin thinking and planning recovery measures to help you reopen your doors as soon as possible.

Planning Out Your Disaster Recovery as a Business Owner

File an insurance claim and begin restoration. There is plenty of variety in commercial insurance coverage, so contacting your insurance company is the only way to know for certain what you will be eligible to claim. After you do this, making sure you contact your restoration company quickly so they can begin getting a response crew together to handle your damage.

Give customers the chance to show their support. It is impossible to know what type of operation you will be able to maintain after a disaster, but regardless of what you choose to do, letting customers know what your plan is will be key for getting their support. You may be doing takeout only, closed temporarily or operating on shortened hours—using social media to announce these changes will ensure that customers can support you when they are able.

Make use of the financial assistance that is offered. Even if you can claim your damages with your insurance provider, there can be many costs that are not covered such as loss of income and excess damages. The disaster loan program through the Small Business Administration is designed to help with this, so see if you qualify for funding options through them to help cover some of these extra expenses.

If your business has been damaged due to a disaster, we’re here to help. Contact us at any hour to report your damage or to learn more about our commercial restoration services.

Historic Hart County Church Fire

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Mountains assisted its neighboring franchise to clean up a fire and smoke damage for Sardis Baptist church located in Hart County.

SERVPRO of The Mountains assisted its neighboring franchise to clean up a fire and smoke damage for Sardis Baptist church located in Hart County just north of Hartwell, Georgia. It is a beautiful campus that overlooks the gorgeous Lake Hartwell near the Big Oaks State Park.  

This great church has been serving its local community since 1803!  Many of the members and visitors come from the surrounding counties of Elbert, Franklin, and Anderson. The historic church is in its fifth sanctuary building.

A few days before Christmas, a candle reignited after they wrapped up an evening service. Thankfully, a family of campers at Watsadler State Park noticed the flickering fire thru the stained-glass window and called 911.

Local volunteer fire fighters from Hart County Station 1 and Bio Volunteer Fire station responded very quickly and managed to save the sanctuary from total loss.

Even though the structural damage was contained to one window and an adjoining wall, smoke and odor had permeated throughout the entire sanctuary. SERVPRO of The Mountains was called to remove the soot and odor and restore the sanctuary.  

Due to high ceilings, recessed lights, speakers, projectors, and chandeliers, church sanctuaries often create difficult challenges when trying to restore them. Not to mention over 100 pews had to be detached, cleaned, deodorized, and reset. Every wall, ceiling, and surface had to be thoroughly cleaned and deodorized by hand.

The project was quite large and took SERVPRO crews several weeks, but in February, the church was able to reopen and resume its normal schedule of worship and its mission to serve the community.

The Warmer Months and Fire Safety | SERVPRO® of The Mountains

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of The Mountains to learn more.

With the days starting to warm up, it becomes more inviting to spend your days outdoors. When you think of warmer days, you don’t typically think of fires, but when you stop and think, there are actually quite a few spring and summer pleasures that involve fire.

That means an increased fire risk. Did you know that spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year? While some fire safety comes as second nature, it’s nice to have a refresher.

What exactly should you pay attention to? Start here:

Fire pits. There’s something about sitting around a fire to help the conversations start flowing! While it seems like a no-brainer, never leave your kids unattended around the fire. It’s also important to keep a bucket of water nearby or drag a water hose close to the pit. You should never add leaves or pine needles to the fire, and finally, put the fire out slowly to avoid scattering embers.

The grill. There’s just something about seeing dear old dad in an apron standing around a grill! The smell of barbecue going is wonderful, but you need to stay mindful that you are working with fire. The combination of flames, heat, grease and gas can make things escalate quickly. Check to make sure the grill is in good working condition, have it placed at least three feet away from everything and clean it before each use. Cleaning the grill before use is the best tip there is, because almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

Chimneys and dryer vents. Some people have fireplaces built into their porch, which makes for a nice setting. But since you probably used it during winter months, be sure have it inspected before next winter. This helps avoid a dangerous buildup of ash and coals. Also, dryer vents tend to get a lot of lint buildup, so while you’re doing maintenance on your chimney, go ahead and clean these vents out as well.

While fire risk is not completely avoidable, being prepared can save you in the long run! If you have fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we are here to help. Contact SERVPRO of The Mountains today to experience the SERVPRO difference.

The Warmer Months and Fire Safety | SERVPRO® of The Mountains

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of The Mountains to learn more.

With the days starting to warm up, it becomes more inviting to spend your days outdoors. When you think of warmer days, you don’t typically think of fires, but when you stop and think, there are actually quite a few spring and summer pleasures that involve fire.

That means an increased fire risk. Did you know that spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year? While some fire safety comes as second nature, it’s nice to have a refresher.

What exactly should you pay attention to? Start here:

Fire pits. There’s something about sitting around a fire to help the conversations start flowing! While it seems like a no-brainer, never leave your kids unattended around the fire. It’s also important to keep a bucket of water nearby or drag a water hose close to the pit. You should never add leaves or pine needles to the fire, and finally, put the fire out slowly to avoid scattering embers.

The grill. There’s just something about seeing dear old dad in an apron standing around a grill! The smell of barbecue going is wonderful, but you need to stay mindful that you are working with fire. The combination of flames, heat, grease and gas can make things escalate quickly. Check to make sure the grill is in good working condition, have it placed at least three feet away from everything and clean it before each use. Cleaning the grill before use is the best tip there is, because almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning.

Chimneys and dryer vents. Some people have fireplaces built into their porch, which makes for a nice setting. But since you probably used it during winter months, be sure have it inspected before next winter. This helps avoid a dangerous buildup of ash and coals. Also, dryer vents tend to get a lot of lint buildup, so while you’re doing maintenance on your chimney, go ahead and clean these vents out as well.

While fire risk is not completely avoidable, being prepared can save you in the long run! If you have fire damage at your home or business, no matter the cause, we are here to help. Contact SERVPRO of The Mountains today to experience the SERVPRO difference.

Substantial and Mobilized Resources

6/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Mountains is always on the ready to respond to any size disaster. Locally owned and operated, our trained technicians are Here to Help.

Your local SERVPRO professionals live and work right here in Northeast Georgia. Our small towns and rural location allow us the time to enjoy life and our neighbors.

SERVPRO of The Mountains is in Habersham County and is just a few minutes’ drive from Rabun, White, and Banks Counties. Being located right in the neighborhood means that we can respond to your emergencies quickly and consistently.

Occasionally the size and challenges of the job may require more than your local team can provide. A bad storm can quickly overload the capacity of any hometown team. In a storm like that, numerous customers may be in immediate need of emergency service.

Large commercial structures and industrial facilities can suffer smoke, fire, or water damage that may require hundreds of skilled workers and thousands of pieces of specialized equipment.

To address those needs, SERVPRO has a network of over 1,700 locations throughout the United States. There are 24 locations in Georgia alone.

SERVPRO has built a system of mutual support from the local franchise all the way the national level. This allows trained technicians, service teams, and literally tractor trailer loads of equipment to respond locally, statewide even across the United States to support communities that are in need.

Whether your home or business suffers a small fire damage, or our community is attacked by storm flooding, hurricane, or tornado, you rest knowing that SERVPRO is ready for any sized disaster.

How Cleveland Businesses Can Move Forward After a Disaster l SERVPRO® of The Mountains

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Mountains knows water restoration, with 24 hour response our trained technicians can help with your emergency when you need it.

We’re invested in helping businesses in our community thrive, so we want to do what we can to support business owners in Cleveland and our other neighboring cities.

The SERVPRO team is here to help you if your business is impacted by a natural disaster, like a fire, flood or severe storm. Because we know it can be difficult to see your best path forward after a disaster, our team has pulled together our best advice for business owners facing restoration after a disaster.

Helping Businesses Thrive After a Natural Disaster

The majority of American businesses can open again after a disaster, and some of them even go on to be more successful than they were before. Here’s how you can set yourself up for success:

Take time to review your disaster plan. Focusing after a fire or flood damages your family business can be a challenge for even the most focused business owner. That’s why your plan is an essential part of moving forward. Read through it again once (or a few times) and follow them.

Document all the damage and losses. Spend time before you start cleaning up taking plenty of pictures of the damage, so your insurance company will have them. If you can, inventory everything inside your business that were lost or damaged.

Help your employees. Don’t forget that many of them will be impacted by your business being damaged and possibly needing to close for a time. You can look to resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) for help.

Keep up regular contact with your circle. Reach out to your suppliers, your employees, your customers and your community.. Social media and your email marketing list can make this easier.

If your business is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Clarkesville Businesses Have a Powerful Cleaning Ally | SERVPRO® of The Mountains

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

If you need cleaning/ emergency restoration at your business, we can help 24/7. Contact SERVPRO of The Mountains to learn more

We have a question for small business owners in Clarkesville. Have you put a lot of work into making sure your business succeeds?

If you’re like most business owners, the answer is “absolutely.”

And that’s to be expected. After all, no one cares as much about your dream of owning a small business as you do. It’s your idea, your leadership and your savvy that built your business.

It takes a lot of planning, too. Most business owners make plans for growth, disasters or any number of situations.

We know what it takes to operate a successful business in our community because we’re local business owners, too. Your local SERVPRO location is owned and operated by people who live in the area.

But sometimes, things happen that you can’t predict or control. You’ve probably spent time recently working through new ways to connect with your customers and deliver services in new ways. Or you’ve decided that it’s time to open your doors and offer in-person services again.

If your business has already reopened, then you might be looking for resources to help you navigate a changing landscape and ensure your business can operate safely.

Tools to Support Local Businesses

You can find information about business loans and tips, advice and more from sources you can trust.

It’s also vital to keep your business clean and safe for your employees and the customers you serve. That’s where we come into the picture.

We’ll get your business “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” What does that mean? Here’s how the process works:

Our technicians start by taking time to consult with you about your business and make an individualized plan.

Then, we’ll clean your space. Our technicians use a high-level system to ensure you’re ready for customers to come back. Our teams work with proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Plus, we use cleaning and decontamination standards directly from the CDC.

Finally, our team will certify your space. That means you can rest assured that you’re ready to be open for business.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

How to clean up Spills on the Carpet - SERVPRO of The Mountains

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's techs are familiar in dealing with common home and workplace spots/spills. Contact SERVPRO of The Mountains to speak with our trained staff.

Accidental spills on our carpets or upholstery are inevitable.   Beverages, food, pet accidents and other normal life events can be contributors.

Proper and speedy spot cleaning can save the day.   Time is of the essence.

At all steps be sure to blot the area but never rub or scrub.   Scrubbing a spot will usually spread the very substance we are trying to remove.   It can also damage carpet fibers creating a shadow effect.

Blot the area immediately with a towel or other absorbent material.  Continuing blotting by using the clean dry towel until all puddled liquid is removed.   Once no liquid is being transferred to the towel, you can move to the next step.

If the liquid is a natural item such as beverages, food or human “spillage”, then water should first be used to rinse the area.   If the liquid is man made such as ink, grease, or paint, then a solvent based cleaner must be used.   See our article “Out Spot Out”.

A small amount of clean water, usually proportional to the amount of liquid spilled, can be spritzed onto the area.    Your fingertips or small sprayer can be used.

Continuing rinsing and blotting this area with a clean dry towel until the liquid being transferred is clear also.

The affected area should now appear damp but not discolored.   If there is visible discoloration, a cleaning agent should now be utilized.   But 80% of the time, clear water rinse will be sufficient.

Speed the drying of this area by using ceiling fans or positioning a portable fan on the damp area.  Quick drying will reduce staining and potential odors.

Usually within 24 hours, the spot should be dry to the touch and visibly clean.

If any discoloration remains after drying, see our article on “Out Spot, Out”

Of course, your SERVPRO professional is always available to consult and provide professional carpet cleaning services that can assist anytime a spill gets out of hand!

We are inspected and approved! SERVPRO of The Mountains

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO staff are highly trained and available 24/7 to handle your water or fire clean up.

Every five years, each of the 1700+ SERVPRO franchises must go through a rigorous process of license renewal. This process is designed to review inspect and ensure that all of the various facets of each franchise are up to the standards that our industry and our customers expect.

Don & Terri Collins attended Franchise Management training at SERVPRO Industries in Gallatin, Tennessee. This refresher course included updates to key areas of leadership in our every changing industry.

This depth audit includes personnel safety, employee certifications, vehicle safety and compliance, equipment calibration, proper usage of cleaning agents and processes, proper licensing, insurance compliance and correct financial management. A rigorous inspection is performed to ensure that all of these various functions are being performed correctly.

SERVPRO of The Mountains is proud to announce that we have once again passed this audit and inspection and have had our license renewed for another five years. 

We are grateful to our staff who perform with excellence each day to ensure the success of these many important functions. We are thankful for our customers who have trusted us with the restoration of their homes and businesses over these past 33 years.

Can You Guess What Every Restoration Project We Do Has in Common? l SERVPRO® of The Mountains

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged due to a disaster, contact SERVPRO of The Mountains. From start to finish, we will be here to help.

Did you know that every restoration project has at least one thing in common? As odd as that may sound, our experience proves that it’s true. The sooner you start repairing damage to your home, the easier it is to restore your home to its original condition.

Why is timing so important? It’s simple. Common household damage culprits can get worse much sooner than you probably expect. Hardwood floors and furniture can show damage within just a few days. Mold can begin to grow within hours.

You Can Count on Us Any Time

Our years of experience working on home restoration projects give us a unique insight into just how important it is to be a partner that’s available when you need us. And in most cases, home emergencies don’t happen on a set schedule.

That’s why we are available ²⁴⁄₇. You can call us any time, and we’ll be here to help you get the restoration project started.

Not only are you getting a partner who is available to you when you need us the most, but you’re also working with a highly skilled team of experts in their field.

The technicians you’ll meet will have the latest training and certifications in their chosen field. You can know the plan they come up with will take the latest home damage restoration techniques into account.

They’ll also be using the latest equipment available. We’re a SERVPRO location, so we have an affiliation with a trusted, national restoration leader. We bring the technology SERVPRO offers to the work we do here in the north Georgia.

Why You May Need Restoration Services

The reasons people seek our help can be as varied as homes and the families who live in them. But the most common reasons include damage from severe weather and home accidents and appliance malfunctions.

If your home is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Falcon Children’s Home

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Mountains is grateful to have been a financial supporter of Falcon for over 35 years.

Falcon Children's Home has been providing a home for displaced children for over one hundred and ten years in a loving Christian environment.   Established in 1909, over fifteen thousand children have been ministered to by Falcon.

In addition to traditional children’s services, they also provide a Transitional Living Program of working with older teens in preparing them for independence.   A residential maternity home is operated on campus and recently have launched a Teen Mothers and Babies Program.

4 of our former staff have been called into full time service at Falcon serving as House Parents, Facilities Managers and Campus pastors.  Several of our employees have family that lived at Falcon when they were children.

In 2015, expansion was made with a second home opened in Turbeville, South Carolina.

Mr. Joseph T. Leggett, Director & CEO said “it is Falcon’s goal that every child could be raised in a family home setting, but for those who are not able to and are placed with us, we make every effort to provide an environment that will nurture and develop that child to be as successful as possible in life.”

Falcon Children's Home and Family Services is truly making a difference in the lives of Children.

Falcon Children's Home and Family Services is truly making a difference in the lives of Children. SERVPRO of The Mountains is grateful to have been a financial supporter of Falcon for over 35 years.

For more information go to: https://www.falconchildrenshome.com

A river flows through it… now how to keep your carpets clean!

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Another beautiful River in North East Georgia

Whether there is fishing, kayaking, tubing or just splashing under a waterfall, our rivers have so much to offer. This part of Northeast Georgia has some of the most scenic rivers in America.  Within minutes you can be on the river and lost in the grandeur of creation.  

The rivers that flow through this area include the Savannah, Tugaloo, Seneca, Oconee, Broad, Middle, North Fork, South Fork, Chattooga, Tallulah, and the Coleman.  And of course, the hundreds of creeks and brooks that feed them.

At the end of the day, we all want that beauty to stay outside.  But with kids, pets and all the fun outdoor adventures we can quickly bring in mud, sand, grit and who knows what else into our floors and carpets without even knowing.

The first line of defense are door mats.  A large welcome mat outside the front door and a small area rug on the inside of the door, this would give each guest a place to clean their feet prior to entering your beautiful home.

With the help of regularly vacuuming and keeping the carpets dry, this will help keep soils from our shoes to penetrate the carpet fibers.   The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) states that over 80% of dry soils can be removed through proper vacuuming.

Your SERVPRO professional can recommend the best of our 5 quality cleaning methods to keep your carpets staying fresh and clean.

Enjoy the river and follow these cleaning tips to keep the outside where it belongs.

Lake Living and Clean Carpets

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Some truly amazing scenery surrounding our lakes in North East Georgia.

Those of us that prefer the water and are privileged enough to live on or near any of the beautiful lakes in America, together we can appreciate our ability to boast about our little corner of North East Georgia. We have Lake Hartwell, Lake Russell, Lake Burton, Lake Yonah, Lake Tugaloo, Lake Rabun, Tate Lake, Tallulah Falls Lake, and Thurmond Lake and list continues.

Whether it is a lake view from the waters edge or a day in the drink, we inevitably carry the remnants of our adventures inside with us. Pets, kids, and even absent-minded husbands can all track in the sand, mud and or even fish residue that we would rather stay outside.

The first line of defense is the area leading to your homes entrance.  The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) states that it can take up to 23 ½ steps to completely clean the bottom of someone shoes.

Installing a welcome mat outside can act as a reminder and gives visitors and occupants a place to clean their shoes before entering. If additional cleaning is required consider placing a second walk off rug inside the door.

Routine vacuuming dry carpeting is also critical in preventing soils from getting smashed and ground into the fiber. This is a most cost-effective way to extend the life and beauty of carpeting.

Periodic spot cleaning is appropriate in between professional cleanings but should not replace an annual or biannual professional service as recommended by the manufacturer.  See our blog “Out Spot out!” for more specific information.

Methods that service professionals may include are; Steam cleaning or steam extraction, shampooing, rotary bonnet cleaning or rotary hot water extraction. All effective methods to clean depending on type and amount of soiling.

After an onsite inspection, your SERVPRO professional can consult you as to which cleaning method is best for your home.

Enjoy the lake… if you apply these tips you can enjoy your carpets, too!

Keeping the Red Clay of North Georgia out of your Carpet

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let the red clay keep you away from the magnificent views of the Appalachian mountains. SERVPRO is Here to Help

Nobody can deny what the creator was doing when setting the Appalachian mountains as the backdrop for the red foothills in North East Georgia, making it one of the most beautiful places in America.

With that beautiful gift comes some unique challenges in keeping our homes clean. Since ridding your home of kids, pets and careless husbands is not an option let us consider the info and how to keep that Georgia red clay outside where it can be appreciated.

Carpet and rugs tend to be more susceptible to heavy soiling as the weight of footsteps crush the dirt and drive the bright colored and tiny particles deep into the fabrics weave.

The first line of defense is walk off areas.  The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) states that it can take up to 23 ½ steps to completely clean the bottom of someone shoes.

A well place welcome mat gives each guest a reminder and place to clean their feet as they enter, consider placing a mat inside and outside each door.

According to the IICRC, Routine vacuuming removes up to 80% of dry soil and is absolutely critical to preserving the quality and condition of carpets and rugs.

DYI spot cleaning is great for preventing staining but will not replace the need for professional cleaning, which is recommended by the manufacturer every 2 years or more frequently depending on the soil exposure. See our blog “Out Spot out!” for more specific information.

Your SERVPRO professional can recommend the best of our 5 quality cleaning methods to remove that pesky Georgia red clay from your carpets today.

Prepare Your Household for Safety Before Severe Weather Is Forecasted | SERVPRO® of The Mountains

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, SERVPRO of The Mountains will respond quickly to assist in any repairs.

Thunderstorms and other severe weather events are frightening, and they can cause serious devastation to the areas in their path. While many pass through without incident during warmer months, every storm has the capability of causing severe damage and everyone should stay alert and make household preparations for safety in advance of severe weather.

Taking measures such as staying tuned to weather notices, having a well-stocked safe area in the home and obtaining a weather radio for alerts will help you be certain that you are doing all you can to protect your household in case a severe thunderstorm comes through the area.

Stay Tuned to Weather Notices

Weather notices provide a concise and clear way for local weather professionals to alert the public to changing conditions, but it is important to tune in and know what the alerts mean. Severe weather watches refer to the possibility of a severe weather scenario—conditions could develop into a storm, so stay tuned in to be aware as things change. For severe weather warnings, this means a storm has been found to be active in the area, and everyone nearby should seek shelter right away.

Have a Well-Stocked Safe Area in the Home

There are so many situations where you may need an emergency kit, but severe weather is typically the most common prompt for people to finally assemble one. Be sure to include everything you need to stay comfortable during a power outage, including light sources, batteries, first-aid supplies, food and water. You should keep this kit in your home’s designated “safe area”—generally a bathroom or closet that is the most protected from outside elements.

Obtain a Weather Radio for Alerts

While most of us depend on our phones to provide us with updates regarding everything, including the weather, when it comes to thunderstorms, they are not the most reliable. Obtaining a weather radio is a smart move toward storm safety—as it does not depend on cell reception or electricity, you can be certain that you can receive updates independently of the outside conditions so you will always be informed.

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to get a quick response to your home’s damages.

Restoring Your North East Georgia Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events in commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of The Mountains

SERVPRO of The Mountains specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Utilizing Strategic Planning to Prepare Your Business for an Emergency | SERVPRO® of The Mountains

4/20/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of The Mountains help your business take measures to reduce the time that your company is closed after a disaster.

Being aware of the future risks that you face as a business owner can help you plan ahead for whatever comes your way—including a natural disaster.

Though there is no way to guarantee you will not be impacted by one, you can prioritize your own preparedness so you can make an effort to lessen the damages it can cause. By taking steps to plan ahead, you can be proactive against something that none of us can control.

Though there is a lot to consider regarding disaster preparations, we recommend breaking it up into three main tasks to help it be more manageable. This way, you can be sure that you are taking care of everything you need to be for your business and keeping your investment protected.

How Healthy is Your Home

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

This info-graph shows the most common sources of indoor air pollution..

During the COVID-19 outbreak we are all feeling some impact of the Nationwide ‘Stay at Home’ order. One thing that has sharply increased are the number of projects being done that folks generally have put on the back burner due to work and personal time restraints. As travel restrictions strengthen our days become longer, we will inevitably find ourselves in our homes for increasing periods of time. During that time would be good to consider how healthy your home is, specifically the air quality. I’d also like to highlight the term "sick building syndrome" (SBS) which is used to describe situations in which building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. The complaints may be localized in a particular room or zone or may be widespread throughout the building. In contrast, the term "building related illness" (BRI) is used when symptoms of diagnosable illness are identified and can be attributed directly to airborne building contaminants.

If you feel like your indoor air quality is suffering and would like SERVPRO to help, call today for a free consultation and estimate.

See the link for more info from the EPA on SBS, BRI and other indoor air quality tips

https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-08/documents/sick_building_factsheet.pdf

We are Cleaning Experts

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

Our knowledge and training of hazardous materials puts SERVPRO in a unique position to do what we love.. 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 Tri-County, 706-245-7109

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

The America I love

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

Moonrise Distillery in Clayton was one of the first craft distilleries in the nation to convert production to hand sanitizer during COVID-19 crisis.

When you think about the area you live in and consider all the pros and cons of its amenities, ultimately you’ll be forced to decide on a specific balance that can only be measured by your own ambitions. “Convenience of the progressive world vs. insulation from it.” For myself, the community aka "We the People" stands out above all else. When good things happen we celebrate together, when bad things happen we suffer together, when disaster strikes we work together to overcome. I am proud to say that our local community is woven tight - personally, I would not trade our close community for any convenience the world has to offer.

Sadly, from my experience this attitude is generally reserved for smaller communities, where things tend to be slow and personal, leaving the larger "hustle and bustle" communities feeling very impersonal. However, during this COVID-19 crisis as well as during any broad scale disaster, I am proud and overwhelmed by the attitudes of our citizens across the nation, in small and large communities alike - people who have no gainable interest in helping have been pooling resources for the greater good of the country aka "We the People." Individuals opening their homes, pantries and showers for those of us tasked with the transportation of needed supplies and restaurants offering free meals for the same. Citizens cheering on our health care workers who are on the front lines while business owners halt production of their products, forfeiting profits to provide what is needed for the community. The country doing what is necessary to rise above terrible circumstances. Reminiscent of the world war efforts and how the country banded together while the young men were on the battlefields, fighting for freedom and liberty, I am comforted and more confident in our future as a Nation knowing that the American people still hold close in their hearts what is most important and that is community - "We the People".

follow the link and read an inspiring article from 'The Clayton Tribune' about a small business giving lessons on community. 

https://www.theclaytontribune.com/local-news/moonrise-converts-production-hand-sanitizer-community

Smoke House

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

With such an expansive training campus it's no wonder why SERVPRO is leading the industry.

Have you ever wondered how SERVPRO's technicians are trained to arrive to your home or business so well prepared to make it "Like it never even happened"? Here is a sneak peak at one of the secure training houses located INSIDE our 200,000 sqft Head Quarter facility in Gallatin TN. Pictured is the "Smoke House" which is a 2 story, furnished, full size home specifically built to be smoke/soot damaged and restored. Classes are split into van groups and as part of their training must clean the entire house to industry standards and pass inspection Some other features on the campus include a "Flood House" for Technicians going through Water Damage Restoration training, Product Laboratory where all SERVPRO products are made and tested, endless hallways of offices, classrooms and meeting rooms. T.V, studio/Green room for SERVPRO TV, Full size Gym, National emergency call center and the list goes on. With so much to offer it is no wonder why in 2007, SERVPRO Industries, LLC, was recognized by the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) for its outstanding achievements in workplace learning, receiving the Golden Torch Award for Innovation in Practice. Also, Entrepreneur Magazine named SERVPRO the #1 Franchisor in the restoration industry every year since 2008. SERVPRO has been named one of the Top 10 Franchise Opportunities in Entrepreneur Magazine several times over the past 20 years.

Premier Carpet Cleaning

3/22/2019 (Permalink)

Built by Hydra-Master the RX20 is the premier tool to use and gives our techs the edge when a standard steam cleaning is just not enough.

With carpet cleaning on the forefront of our services in Toccoa Ga. SERVPRO would like to take the time to show why our carpet cleaning services are leading the competition. In this feature we will discuss the RX20 rotary extractor and how it improves the cleaning without adding cost to the customer.

SERVPRO technicians love the RX20 because it works hard giving 650 cleaning passes per minute, never gets tired and it delivers the same great results from beginning to end. All this work allows the carpet technician to focus more time on troubled areas and less time in your home, less time in your home = less money out of your pocket.

Our customers love the RX20 because its powerful jets and extraction ports sink deep into the fibers to clean all the way through, from tip to base without getting the carpet backing or padding wet. This makes dry times significantly lesser and allows our customers day to resume much sooner.

In our opinion the RX20 delivers the best clean results and promotes the fastest drying times making it a foundational tool for any Carpet tech.

Putting People to Work

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

Goodwill in Cornelia makes it easy to attend by being an excellent host!

With the industry booming and a variety of services being offered, no matter if you are looking for some extra money or are looking for a trade to further your future or career SERVPRO is always searching for new talents to add to our team.

Along with our online application process our local SERVPRO is happy to work with ‘Goodwill’s Career Center’ to present to its hosts and attendees the opportunities that are currently available. This also gives us a moment to connect with those interested and explain those opportunities in more detail. Aside from the talent search the “Put People to Work” initiative is an excellent resource to educate the community on what services we offer, why we offer them and why our team is the best in the business.    

   
If you love the service industry and are geared to helping people in their time of need, plan on attending Goodwill’s job fair as our team would be happy to meet you and discuss any opportunities available. 

SERVPRO goes even GREENER

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

New service vehicles offer amazing Cargo capacity, advanced safety features and huge fuel savings.

During their service life, over 850,000 lbs of CO2 will NOT be put into the atmosphere. That's the equivalent of planting 1,550 trees to improve our air quality. A Green win for all of us. 

SERVPRO goes GREEN!

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is riding in style with the new Chevy Volt.

You may have seen our new sales vehicle at your office. It is a Chevrolet Volt. Not only is it shiny and sporty, it also great for the environment. 

It is a plug-in hybrid. Each morning it travels its first 30 miles on pure electric power. When that battery supply is exhausted, the gasoline engine kicks in and it still gets a respectable 48 miles per gallon. Basically, the car runs on gasoline up hill and then down hill on electric.

After 9 months of daily service, it is averaging 78.1 mpg. This is a reduction of fuel use of over 875 gallons per year. That’s a whopping 17,500 lbs of Carbon CO2 that isn’t released into the atmosphere.

During its service life, over 140,000 lbs of CO2 will not be put into the atmosphere. That’s a fact that can help all of us breathe easier indeed.

Neighborhood of Hope

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

Kudos to Pleasant Grove Baptist for taking on the burden so many families face. For more information, contact John Todd at 706-245-5429.

We would like to recognize a vision that has come to fruition by one of our local churches. “Neighborhood of Hope”, designed to help families in need of housing was built by Pleasant Grove Baptist to provide a safe space for families to live while their lives are being rebuilt. When families have been removed from their homes by fire, flood and other various situations the church has always been eager to help even if the reach was limited. Now, with the newly developed neighborhood the church can further their reach by warmly hosting families and taking the burden of shelter off their plates.

When a family or individual arrives, they are interviewed and given clothes and basic necessities. The church ensures the correct paperwork is completed and hopefully move the family in within a day. Residents then sign a week to week agreement to care for the home and, based on income, would pay a weekly reimbursement fee for electricity.

Where did the sign go?

11/21/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s Royston location is improving drivers safety with some much needed road work.

You may have noticed our “missing” road sign. The message board is a staple for our local community which gives travelers the most current information, safety tips and always includes a touch of humor. The sign is noted by several our customers as being something they look forward to reading each day. The good news is that the sign is only being relocated as a larger project is unfolding. If you have ever left or frequently passed our Royston location, you would have undoubtedly experienced the extremely limited sight range motorist have upon entering State Hwy 29. The project is being facilitated by the Dept. of Transportation and includes tree removal and grade work to bring the ditch several more feet away from the road, greatly improving visibility. Time range for this project is uncertain but we will be working hard to get the sign replaced. Until then, feel free to browse our web page or Facebook site for the most recent news.  

New Hat

11/15/2018 (Permalink)

Nicholas fills his personal time with his wife and 4 children. He enjoys weight training, mud runs and is a Trail guide for 'Trail Life USA'.

This year at SERVPRO we have had a great year. Winter freeze, Summer cleanings, spring and fall preparations and spontaneous disasters tend to keep all our staff on their toes. Our goal is for everyone to know that they can call SERVPRO for emergency cleanup. Getting the word out to everyone can be a daunting task. To better help with this SERVPRO is happy to announce that Nicholas Alzen will be taking on the role of Marketing Manager.

"I have really enjoyed the challenges and successes over the last decade working with SERVPRO. Meeting people in their time of need is one of my passions and with such a great team and training here at SERVPRO I do not think it could be done better anywhere else. I am looking forward to taking on a new role that will help our company grow and get the word out that our teams care and are ready to help". -Nicholas Alzen

Nicholas is one of our Senior Drying and Division Chiefs. He has been with us since August 2006. He has over 10 years of experience in disaster response-cleanup caused by fire/water/mold. Certified through IICRC for Carpet Cleaning and Water Damage Restoration. He is also experienced in building construction and general carpentry as well as controlled demo.

Scouting for New Talent

11/7/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO’s Nicholas Alzen is with TJ Hamil. TJ who coordinated the Job Fair efforts at Emmanuel college is a prime example of resource and hospitality.

With the industry booming and a variety of services being offered, wether you are looking for some extra money or are looking for a trade to further your future or career SERVPRO is always searching for new talents to add to our team.

Along with our online application process our local SERVPRO habitually attends community job fairs to present to its hosts and attendees the opportunities that are currently available. This also gives us a moment to connect with those interested and explain those opportunities in more detail. Aside from the talent search the job fair is an excellent resource to educate the community on what services we offer, why we offer them and why our team is the best in the business.    

   
If you love the service industry and are geared to helping people in their time of need, plan on attending the local job fair as our team would be happy to meet you and discuss any opportunities available.

Faster to your Northeast Georgia Water Damage Event

7/14/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Santa Barbara provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Tri-County and The Mountains arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 706-754-7378

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Tri-County and The Mountains

SERVPRO of Tri-County and The Mountains specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Northeast Georgia Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

7/14/2017 (Permalink)

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Tri-County and The Mountains for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Tri-County and The Mountains specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today - 706-754-7378

When Storms or Floods hit Northeast Georgia, SERVPRO is ready!

7/5/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Tri-County and The Mountains specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Northeast Georgia, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams [Click to your disaster recovery page] that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 706-754-7378

For Immediate Service in Northeast Georgia, Call SERVPRO

7/5/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Mountains provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Northeast Georgia. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 706-754-7378

Residential Services

Whether your Northeast Georgia home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Northeast Georgia commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: http://www.SERVPROthemountains.com/

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

SERVPRO Donating Services

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

Toccoa Falls College recently had a need for cleaning services. SERVPRO was happy to help! Here is what the President of the College wrote in response to our donation of our professional cleaning services:

Nick,

I wish to offer my sincere appreciation to you, SERVPRO of the Mountains, and your team in a generous donation of time and energy from the missionary housing project on the Toccoa Falls Campus. We appreciate the professional cleaning of the sofa, love seat and the cushions of one of the homes. They greatly enhanced the decor and "freshness" of the house. Thank you for your involvement in helping us improve these furnished homes for missionaries and international workers during their year of home assignment.

We wish to offer you our gratitude for your help and encouragement. Many of these projects we cannot complete without gifts and generosity of individuals and corporations within our surrounding area, and we are grateful to SERVPRO of the Mountains.

Thank you again for your help in making this endeavor a reality. May God bless you and SERVPRO.

Sincerely,

Dr. Roberts Meyers

President

Toccoa Falls College

Firefighters' Weekend

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO supported a local event for Firefighters by passing out doughnuts and coffee. the event was designed as a training secession for our local heroes in our fire departments. Here is what Shane Scoggins at The Hartwell Sun wrote about the event:

" The Lavonia Fire Department hosted a Firefighters's Weekend that provided training for 97 volunteer firefighters from Franklin, Hart, Stephens, Madison, Habersham and Banks counties.

Over the years, us going to Forsyth, it's hard for volunteers to get off. Lavonia fire chief Scott O'Barr said of a motivation for ht weekend.

It would be impossible for the number of volunteers attending Lavonia's event to all drive two hours to Forsyth for training, O'Barr said.

By offering classes in Lavonia, it allows Firefighters "to work with people they work with," he said which allows them to train as a group and team.

It also allowed firefighters from departments from neighboring counties to get to know each other.

Holding such classes was part of the motivation for the Lovonia department to build its training center behind the Lavoina Cultural Center.

The center, which allows live burns and training exercises, opened last year.

The volunteers attending the weekend had the opportunity to attend classes in basic structure fire control, auto extrication and low angle rope rescue. Department officers were also able to take volunteer officers' class.

The weekend included classroom work Saturday and hands-on training Sunday at the training center and the other locations.

Instructors from all over the state came to Lavonia to teach the classes. The instructors included members of Georgia Smokejumpers, an elite group that O'Barr said was the fire service's equivalent of Navy SEALs.

In addition to classes the weekend included a T-shirt for each student, meals Saturday and Sunday, doughnuts and coffee both mornings and refreshments.

All that was provided free of charge to the participants.

"They had to bring absolutely nothing but their gear" O'Barr said.

David Phillips said the Firefighters Association received a grant from the Hart EMC Foundation to cover mos of the $4,500 costs - including Lodging for some out-of-town instructors. Anyone wanting to make a donation to cover the remaining cost may do so at the Firefighters Association, which is a 5013 organization.

O'Barr said the weekend was also made possible by donations from Fireline Fire Equipment, SERVPRO, Subway of Lavonia and Concept Graphics and assistance from Georgia Emergency Management Agency and EMS.

Restoring Your Northeast Georgia Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Northeast Georgia commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of the Mountains

SERVPRO of the Mountains specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

http://www.SERVPROthemountains.com/crew-photos

Northeast Georgia Smoke and Soot Cleanup

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Northeast Georgia Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of the Mountains will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 706-754-7378

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Northeast Georgia Home

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

We are an IICRC Certified Firm

SERVPRO of the Mountains is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of the Mountains

SERVPRO of the Mountains specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

http://www.SERVPROthemountains.com/crew-photos

Does Your Northeast Georgia Home Have A Mold Problem?

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

In Northeast Georgia, mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 706-754-7378

Northeast Georgia 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

5/12/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Mountains provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Northeast Georgia

SERVPRO of the Mountains is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 706-754-7378

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of the Mountains has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of the Mountains

SERVPRO of the Mountains specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

http://www.SERVPROthemountains.com/crew-photos

Franklin County Chamber Trade Show 2014

11/18/2014 (Permalink)

Don, Justin, and Daniel from our local SERVPRO, had a great time at the 2014 Franklin County Chamber Trade Show! The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Business Committee hosted this event at Lavonia First Baptist.

 Justin is also chairman of the committee that organized the event. "We had an amazing turnout... even better than last year! We had over 40 local businesses and civic groups present tabletop displays and interactive presentations. We also had over 60 students interview the businesses as part of the Chamber's Education in Enterprise Initiative. 

As always, we owe a special thanks to Aida, Director of Chamber Services. There are no words to express how much you are appreciated! 

Record setting putt at the FedEx Cup SERVPRO Booth!

9/15/2014 (Permalink)

The most talked about putt at the FedEx Cup should have been the 8 footer sunk by a 10 year old girl at the SERVPRO booth!

"Bubba who?"

The most talked about putt at the FedEx Cup should have been the 8 footer sunk by a 10 year old girl at the SERVPRO booth!

Awesome job!

Local Franchise at the FedEx Cup

9/15/2014 (Permalink)

"My record was 5 in a row, just don't ask how many I missed before that!"

SERVPRO is a national sponsor of the PGA Tour. Don & Justin, from our local franchise, got the opportunity to help out at the putting green competition in the SERVPRO booth at the FedEx Cup Finals this year.

"We had a great time telling folks about our Fire & Water Damage Cleanup Services, not to mention taking a few shots ourselves at the putting green. My record was 5 in a row, just don't ask how many I missed before that!""

Special thanks to Casey from our National Marketing team for the invitation to work with our neighboring SERVPRO teams at an awesome event!

Back to School Carpet Cleaning

8/15/2014 (Permalink)

Taking a moment to say thank you to our local schools for hiring SERVPRO for Carpet Cleaning during the summer break. As always we appreciate your business, and we love knowing we could help you get ready for another great year!

Call us to clean carpet at home now that the kids are back in school!

Old Friend becomes New Recruit

4/30/2013 (Permalink)

Fire & Water Cleanup Rep for SERVPRO of Tri-County & The Mountains

Don Julian has signed on as a representative for our local Fire & Water Damage Restoration Franchise. Don brings more than 36 years of experience as an Insurance Claims Adjuster.

"We knew Don already from years of working on claims with him," said Justin, Marketing Manager. "His familiarity with us and our industry is truly a great asset. Even without that, his work ethic and attitude could have gotten him the job. I am thrilled to have Don on our team."

Don will be building & maintaining relationships with our Emergency Service Customers primarily in the following cities in northeast Georgia: Clayton, Clarkesville, Helen, Cleveland, Demorest, Cornelia, Toccoa, Lavonia, Royston, Hartwell, & Elberton.