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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Blog Posts

Best to call SERVPRO Team Gutierrez when it comes to water damage restoration!

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

Green dryer fan in crawl space Water damage can lead to further problems if not taken care of swiftly. SERVPRO Rockville-Olney has the manpower & equipment to respond quickly.

When a flood or any other water events like supply line break or pipe break destroys your home or business, it's crucial to act quickly by acquiring professional flood restoration services, like those offered by SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North. Cleaning up water damage involves more than just drying and wiping the residue away.

Additionally, delaying makes the damage worse because the water will seep into the walls, furnishings, floors, which may result in mildew and mold growth. Water mitigation can be devastating, but when one gets professional services, restoring the home becomes easier and you can put the traumatic event behind.

Water damage mitigation

Water/flood damage is the destructive process that occurs when water gets into a building. This can be caused by a pipe break, supply line break, or floods after heavy rains. Water in a home or water in a business can cause damage like oxidation of metal (rust), rotting wood, composite building materials delamination, and microbial growth. Immediately water seeps into the building materials, a chemical reaction begins to occur hence breaking down the strength of the material. In case water cleanup and drying aren't done immediately, the stability of the structure can be compromised. This makes the flooded home unsafe for human occupancy. Sometimes the effect just comes from a simple pipe break.

Restoration Solutions

The first step for handling flood damage when you have a flooded home is emergency mitigation. This involves locating the cause of the problem (be it a pipe leak or a supply line break) and eliminating the problem. The next step in managing water in home or water in business damage would be assessing the water damage and any dangers to humans. All these services are to be handled by licensed and trained water cleanup professionals. What follows is the drying and dehumidifying of all the affected areas.

After our SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney team assesses the property, equipment as well as other items to know if the contents can be restored are brought in. Mold mitigation services may be necessary as they help get rid of any microbial growth associated with a flooded home.

Once the structure is safe for occupation, your family or employees can get back to their normal operations.

Reasons to get professional help

Rapid restoration
Tackling the task of restoring your flooded home or business after flood damage can be slow and exhausting. This increase the probability of further damage especially when the cause of the problem, like supply line break or pipe break, hasn't been addressed. By working with SERVPRO, water damage mitigation becomes manageable. The water cleanup and drying process is handled efficiently and quickly by flood damage professionals with the right equipment.

Preventing mold and mildew
In case you have experienced mildew or mold after water in home or water in business, you know how hard it is to get rid of the problem. Prompt water and flood damage restoration can reduce the chances of mold growth.

Insurance issues
When you have water or flood damage coverage, the mitigation firm will assist you to deal with the needed procedures and forms. Here at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney, our team can help to document the losses they so that they can get the proper settlement from the insurance company. 

Although hiring restoration experts may cost a bit more, the expenses can't compare to the costs incurred if you do nothing or decide to handle the restoration by yourself. Oftentimes there are problems beyond the wet surface that the non-professional eyes cannot see. It's always best to call a professional when it comes to water damage!

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North Team Gutierrez is always here to help. 301-340-1313.

SERVPRO uses different mold mitigation method for different surfaces

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

black mold on floor Mold, if not treated properly and efficiently, can lead to other problems in the home, and to your health. SERVPRO Team Gutierrez can help!

Mold is often undetectable in homes until it has become a significant problem. Not every type of mold has that distinctive, ‘musty’ odor and if the growth started behind a wall or in the attic, the smell is not noticeable until the mold has grown into a large colony of spores.

Restoring a home due to the effects of mold damage is a task that needs a professional service. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and our sister franchises SERVPRO of Laurel & Greenbelt/Beltsville have trained crews on 24-hour notice to support our neighbors and customers. We have some of the best-trained personnel in the industry to safely remove & remediate mold from the property.

The technicians first determine the type of surface infested. This inspection decides both the cleaning methods needed and how much time may be required to complete the job. We usually divide surfaces into porous, nonporous and semi-porous categories.

Porous surfaces are typically building materials and fabrics; drywall and upholstery for example. They are often cleanable, but if the mold is very thick or has grown into the material, we dispose of it. Our cleaning methods for these surfaces involve vacuuming them with special HEPA filters that catch tiny amounts of loose mold, even a single spore.

After vacuuming, we move on to using spray bottles with an antimicrobial cleaner and foaming agents to dampen the surface. Wetting loosens the mold and allows technicians to remove it with cloths and sponges.

Nonporous surfaces are the easiest to clean. This category includes metal and glass tabletops, as well as marble and smooth stone kitchen countertops. In many cases, we can remove the mold with dry cloths and sponges. Technicians wipe down the surfaces from top to bottom to prevent accidentally leaving spores at the top or along the sides. If the mold layer is thick, we vacuum it first before dry wiping.

Semi-porous surfaces (concrete and wood decks for example) require methods not acceptable on other surfaces. Affected surfaces may need sanding to wire brushing and other abrasive tools to dig out the mold. The cleaners we use on these surfaces would mar or otherwise destroy glass and metal surfaces. If mold has penetrated the surface of the wood or concrete, technicians may have to sand them down by hand or with a power sander to remove it.

Returning your home to its pre-mold condition is not a quick or easy set of processes. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney, Silver Spring North and SERVPRO of Laurel/Greenbelt-Beltsville have years of experience in helping our customers through each step, to put you back into your home.

Call SERVPRO Team Gutierrez at 301-340-1313 in Montgomery County, or 301-323-8862 in Prince George's County today to set up a free assessment.

Safety tips to keep your Christmas season merry!

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

Lights and bright star on Christmas tree Use these safety tips in your Montgomery County residence or commercial building to make it a safe holiday season!

Christmas is less than 2 weeks away! Can you believe it?

During the winter holiday season, we notice a pattern of catastrophes, many dealing with Christmas trees. While they’re beautiful to look at, Christmas trees can cause a lot of issues if not properly taken care of.

To avoid hazards such as a tree fire, house fire, outlet overload, and even electrocution, follow the tips below to keep you and your family safe and happy during this 2023 holiday season!

  • Water your tree daily! A dry tree can quickly transform into a tree in flames.
  • Do not connect more than three strings of lights.
  • Got cords? Keep them away from heat sources. Do not nail or staple them either. Placing them under a rug isn’t a safe idea. Neither is completely shutting a door or closing a window with a cord running through it. This is a fire hazard.
  • Plugging in too many appliances can overload the outlet. 
  • Before plugging in appliances, lights, yard decorations, etc., make sure your sockets are in good condition and that wires are not bare. Oftentimes, we use these decorations or particular outlets once a year, so it’s important to carefully inspect them.
  • Turn off and unplug any lights before going to sleep or leaving your home. Extinguish any candles before leaving the vicinity.
  • Cooking or baking for the holidays? Make sure to stay in the kitchen when doing so.
  • Use battery-operated candles instead of candles with actual flames.
  • Water and electricity do NOT mix well. Be careful your string lights are not touching or partially in the tree’s water bowl. Additionally, snow=water. Make sure you are dry when plugging in outdoor lights. Dry your hands from any falling elements such as rain and snow before dealing with electricity.
  • It’s cold! But be careful where you place space heaters. They should always be at least 3 feet away from furniture, etc. and even farther from Christmas trees.

We at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North wish you a Merry Christmas and safe holiday season!

For more fire safety tips, visit our website:

www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/fire-damage-tips

Certified with decades of experience to respond to disasters

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

IICRC logo SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & our sister franchises take pride in our well-certified staff and decades of fire & water restoration experience.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North, and our Prince George’s County counterparts, SERVPRO of Laurel & Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E, have decades of fire and water restoration experience in helping our customers, and we pride ourselves in having one of the most well-trained technicians in the business.

SERVPRO specializes in the cleanup, restoration and reconstruction of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event, as well as mold and biohazard mitigation. 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.

Here are some of our Certifications:

  • IICRC - Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification
  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • RRP - Lead-based paint Renovation, Repair and Painting
  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • HST - Health and Safety Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program

All our four SERVPRO franchises - Rockville-Olney, Silver Spring North, Laurel & Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E - are IICRC firms. 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 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.

Our office phones are staffed 24/7 for emergencies. Call SERVPRO Team Gutierrez at 301-340-1313 in Montgomery County, or 301-323-8862 in Prince George's County today if we can help with restoration needs!

What You Need to Know Before a Winter Storm

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

frozen pipe Follow these tips to prepare for a winter storm.

Winter storms can cause a lot of damage! Not only is your home or business at risk, but also your health, the roads and your vehicle. Unlike storms occurring during the warmer seasons, winter storms can bring freezing rain, snow, ice, and intense, cold winds.

It’s important to make sure your home or office is properly insulated. Caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows will keep cold air from seeping into your property. Also consider installing a storm door. That will provide an extra layer of insulation and protection.

Also remember your pipes! To keep them from freezing, insulate them by wrapping them in old newspaper, for example. Then, cover the newspaper with plastic to keep any moisture out.  

One of the most important things to keep in mind, especially during the coldest time of the year, is carbon monoxide. During a snowstorm in particular, it’s safe to assume your windows and doors are tightly shut. It’s great that snow and frigid air can’t make their way into your home, yet carbon monoxide can begin poisoning your air by quickly filling up the confined air. Carbon monoxide can be released from the gas of generators, stoves and other equipment.

Furthermore, having your car run to warm up for example, or sitting in it for heat purposes, will result in the release of carbon monoxide. If the vehicle is in an enclosed or poorly ventilated area, the buildup can be deadly. It’s odorless, silent and quick to poison. 

Of course snowstorms also have a direct impact on the structure of your home. Heavy snow can cause your roof to weaken, possibly resulting in its collapse. Snowstorms can also cause windows to break.

Be careful of falling trees. Before cold temperatures set in, check your property for any dying trees or breaking branches. It’s a good idea to call a professional company if anything seems questionable. You will want to get any trees or branches removed that might put your property at risk. Once the snow begins falling, its weight can easily snap a branch or even an entire tree that can land on your home or office, which in turn would create an opening for snow, rain, or ice to fall directly in your home.

Snowstorms can also affect your & others' health, including neighbors, homeless members of your community, and animals including pets. Health risks include hypothermia, heart attacks from overexertion, and frostbite. A common result of a winter storm is losing heat and communication services. Especially for the elderly and young children, losing heat can be life-threatening.

Additionally, if communication services are temporarily out and an emergency occurs, there is basically no way of getting help. As winter is quickly approaching, we encourage you to purchase a mobile phone from a reliable and trusted carrier if you currently only have a landline. We also encourage you to check on anyone you might see as at-risk.

If you know a winter storm is approaching, make sure to warn members of your community, such as an elderly neighbor, who may have not heard, or notify a local homeless shelter if you see someone you think would benefit from their services.

Lastly, make sure you are dressed warmly, covering yourself in winter gear from head to toe. Warm gloves and socks are essential as frostbite is most common on fingers and toes. You should stay indoors as much as possible and be sure to stay off the road. The road is an extremely dangerous place to be during a snowstorm. These weather conditions can make it nearly impossible to drive, and the last place you want to be is sitting on the side of a road as the snow on the ground grows higher.

Keep yourself safe and let’s keep everyone else safe and warm this winter!

In the unfortunate event you have pipe burst or other storm & water damage around your property, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North is here 24/7 to help. 301-340-1313.

How to Prevent Ice Dams Around Your Property

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

ice dams It's important to act immediately after spotting an ice dam on your property to prevent further damage!

After a heavy snowfall, ice dams can form below roofs and windows around our home. Numerous actions can be taken to prevent an ice dam from forming both before and after a snowfall. Follow these useful tips to help prevent a catastrophe:

To stop an ice dam:

Keep your attic insulated

Improve ventilation, especially in the eaves and ridge

Prevent air leaks. Caulk any gaps or openings

Install an extra barrier under the shingles to prevent water from seeping into home or building

Seal and insulate ducts

Cold temperatures can sometimes have their way of forming a dam on your property despite following these tips. Be sure to:

Clear snow from roof after every snow shower

Clear gutters of any leaves, snow, or debris

Clear around downspouts, too!

However, your safety is your first priority! Snowy and icy conditions make everything more slippery and dangerous. Do not use a ladder or attempt climbing, as you could slide off the surface or the ladder. If you find it unsafe to remove an ice dam you spot on your property, for example, call a professional immediately!

Give Team Gutierrez of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North a call today if you have any questions or storm & water damage restoration needs. 301-340-1313.

Restoring Commercial Buildings After Water Damage

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Green truck in front of buildings Ask about our Business Ready Plan for quick response to water or other emergency damage.

Flooding and water damage disasters at Silver Spring North or Rockville-Olney commercial properties - such as office & condo buildings and healthcare facilities - 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 SERVPRO technicians are trained regularly 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 at your business, give us a call at 301-340-1313, and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North specialize 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.

We are here to help 24/7. Call SERVPRO Team Gutierrez at 301-340-1313. Ask about our Business Ready Plan for even quicker response!

Leave Biohazard Cleanup to SERVPRO Rockville Experts

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Men in biohaz suits cleaning parking garage Leave sewage backups, chemical spills & other biohazards cleanup to our SERVPRO experts!

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences. A failure to properly remove such substances can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North have highly-trained technicians who can safely clean and remove biohazardous substances and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations.

The decontamination process of a home or business due to trauma, sewage backups, chemical spills, hoarding or other biohazards can be both dangerous and emotional. SERVPRO Team Gutierrez of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North can provide cleanup and recovery services for many biohazardous situations including but not limited to: sewage backups, crime scene residues, suicide/death accidents, blood cleanup, hoarding scenes, and animal waste/remains.

Biohazard emergencies don't always happen during the regular work week. That's why SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call us at 301-340-1313 for swift response.

What are your Goals for 2024?

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

calendars and plants on desk Completing smaller goals make way for the completion of larger & more challenging tasks. SERVPRO Team Gutierrez wishes you a successful 2024!

Do you manage or own a business?

As we approach 2024, you most likely have many goals for your business!

Oftentimes, getting smaller tasks completed will make way for the completion of the larger and more challenging goals!

Tackling smaller projects, such as signing your company up for a volunteer opportunity in your community, can become one of the stepping stones leading you towards a more long-term goal of creating more camaraderie between your employees, for example. 

Here are some more tips and recommendations for bettering your business in 2024:

* Grow as a team! Get to know your employees or co-workers by having a monthly group lunch, going on a weekend hike with your team, or hosting a holiday game night after work. As relationships grow, employees will become more apt to help one another not only achieve personal goals, but also goals for the prosperity of the company!

* Do you have a goal of refreshing your office space in 2024? That can be a daunting task, especially if it needs a complete makeover. Start small! Buy a few hardy plants to decorate your office with. Replace a piece of furniture or two at a time so you can stay within budget. Run a quick vacuum over your property once a week to avoid a messy and stained floor at the end of the month. It’s the “little things” you do that can really add up!

Sometimes, it’s hard to stay focused on all your goals. When you’re running a business, there are a million things going on, so other priorities can get in the way of achieving your goals. However, forming a habit is said to take 21 days. That’s three weeks! If you dedicate 30 minutes a day towards doing research, planning, etc. for your goal, it will become a habit you soon won’t even think twice about!

Plus, stay on top of your goals by getting organized! Purchase an agenda book where you can write down what you need to get done for the day. Seeing it visually will help!

Don’t forget to take care of yourself! You are a busy individual with a lot of responsibility. Make sure you allow yourself time to recharge.

Here at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, we help many businesses in and around Montgomery County, MD. Whether we’re called for water damage restoration, cleaning service, mold remediation, biohazards cleanup, etc... we are always here to help lift a load off your shoulders! Don’t hesitate to give us a call at 301-340-1313. We're here to help!

We wish you and your company a fabulous and successful New Year!

Check out the variety of cleaning services we offer to help get 2024 off to a great start:

www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/cleaning-services

Winter Weather is coming. Are you prepared?

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Snow on windshield Take these simple steps to ensure your home is ready for winter weather.

Most of us would probably rather hibernate for the winter than deal with any of the home maintenance tasks that come along with owning property during the wintry months. 

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North would like to remind you that your winter will be much better if you take steps now to prevent any winter weather-related disasters or accidents happening in & around the home!

Here are some helpful tips for winter preparedness in the coming weeks...

  • Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes that could freeze.
  • Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
  • Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to "off."
  • If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off.
  • Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, which could lead to roof problems and water damage.
  • Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of "puff backs." A puff back occurs when your oil burner backfires and shoots smoke and soot into your home or business. Puff backs can cause anything from minor inconvenience to severe damage to your property and heating system. 

Don't overlook these tips as you head into the winter months and holiday season. Keep your home safe and secure so that you can focus on staying warm and enjoying the season with your loved ones this winter! 

In the unfortunate event you have storm, water or smoke damage, restoration help is a phone call away: Team Gutierrez of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North 301-340-1313.

Winter checklist for your commercial buildings

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

wintry scene in commercial district Preparing your commercial property for winter is an essential part of maintaining your building!

Preparing your commercial property for winter is an essential part of maintaining your building(s)! As you know, harsh winter weather can take a toll on your property, so make sure to check off each of the items below before our Maryland winter weather goes into full swing:

-Check your building’s winter inventory! Do you have all the necessary winter snow removal supplies such as a salt spreader and snowplow? Are they in good repair? Make sure these items have adequate fuel, too!

-If you do not plow your own snow, see that you establish a contract with a snow removal service company.

-Make sure your building is safe for customers! This means removing snow from walkways and entrances, adding slip-resistant flooring as shoes tend to get wet from snow this time of year, and ensuring all areas of your building are well-lit. During the winter, we see less daylight, so it is crucial to ensure good lighting for the safety of all!

-Clean snow piles from the roof or hire a professional company to do so. Also, check for loose shingles or any other damage to your roof that can be caused by the high winds or ice that winter brings.

-Keep the building temperature above 45 degrees Fahrenheit to protect plumbing (mainly to avoid frozen pipes). Regularly check both interior and exposed pipes. Insulate pipes and seal cracked ones to avoid broken pipes.

-Inspect your HVAC system. Look for cracks and leaks and listen out for any strange sounds originating from the system. The wintertime can give your system a real workout! 

-Check for large icicles, especially when in harm’s way. Icicles can become quite heavy and very dangerous. Be sure to remove large icicles that have the potential to fall on someone or onto a car. 

-Prevent power outages in your building by investing in backup generator(s) and inspecting nearby powerlines and the surrounding trees. Weak tree branches often cause outages by falling onto telephone poles and powerlines.

We hope you stay safe and are prepared for Winter 2023-24! Team Gutierrez of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North is here to help 24/7 should you need cleanup & restoration from storm damages.

We also do repair & reconstruction to make your property damage "Like it never even happened." 301-340-1313.

Preparing for colder temperature

11/30/2023 (Permalink)

protecting water pipe with insulation Insulate your water pipes can help protect from cold temperature burst.

With Winter approaching, there are simple steps that can be taken to ensure your home is ready to withstand the cold temperatures. Most steps are inexpensive and take little time, but can help avoid property damage that can be costly to repair.  

Following are a few tips to consider before Winter arrives:

1) Seal off drafty windows and patio doors with clear plastic.

2) Insulate the hot water lines around your hot water heater and turn down the temperature to the "warm" setting.

3) Replace your furnace filter.

4) Use a programmable thermostat to reduce heating costs when no one is home.

5) Keep all vents and baseboard heaters clean.

6) Install foam insulators behind the face plates of light switches and electrical outlets.

7) Remove any window unit air conditioners.

8) Shut the vents in rooms that aren't used.

In the unfortunate event you experience a pipe burst or other water damage in your home or business, SERVPRO Team Gutierrez of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring is here to help 24/7 and just a phone call away. 301-340-1313.

Time to Winterize Your Property, to Avoid Pipe Bursts & Other Water Issues

11/30/2023 (Permalink)

icy pipe Pipe burst or other water-related damages? SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney is a phone call away. 301-340-1313

With Winter just weeks away, we are reminding our customers & friends in Montgomery County and surrounding Maryland areas to walk around your home and yard and take a few simple steps to winterize your property.

The below 30 temperatures can freeze exposed water pipes. In the event you have frozen pipes, take these steps to be safe and help prevent further damage:

  • First, find your home’s main water supply and shut it off.
  • Next, turn off your main electrical supply to reduce the risk of electrical shock and damage to circuits and electrical appliances.
  • If the water comes from a hot water pipe, shut the main valve to your hot water heater as well.
  • Call a plumber for help as soon as possible.
  • Your safety is most important. Please do not attempt potentially dangerous repairs. Be aware of submerged electrical outlets, appliances or chemicals that may be inside standing water.

The AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) offers the following tips to winterize your pipes and doors & windows this winter:

  • Make sure to drain outdoor water spigots and winterize water pipes. You can winterize water pipes by locating your hose bib shut-off valve, which may be in a basement or crawl space, and turning it off at the source. For extra protection, purchase a Styrofoam cover that attaches over the outdoor spigots to keep them from freezing.
  • You may also want to shut off water to exterior faucets and drain sprinkler systems for extra protection against freezing pipes and water lines.
  • Heat lost through windows and doors can account for up to 30 percent of home energy use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. To keep heat in the house, look for cracks or gaps in the exterior caulking, check seals around exterior door and add caulking or weather stripping as needed. While these do-it-yourself fixes can reduce heat loss, a professional energy assessment can provide additional insights into areas where you may be losing heat and recommend fixes. Call your utility company to ask about their services or get a recommendation for a pro.

Check out this article from the AARP website for more tips to winterize your home and save money:

www.aarp.org/money/budgeting-saving/info-10-2012/8-ways-to-save-money-this-winter.html

In the event you experience pipe bursts and other water-related damages to your home or business property, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North are available 24/7 to respond to water damage emergencies. We are a water & fire cleanup and restoration company and can do the job right the first time!

Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313.

Tips for Purer Air in Your Home

11/30/2023 (Permalink)

home plants There are many benefits to having house plants!

Why not show your home or office some love during this time of year! Not only can plants and candles add beauty and pleasant scent to your spaces, they have health benefits as well, by purifying the indoor air and add a sense of calm.

Below are a few tips to improve the quality of your already amazing property:

  • Buy a few beeswax candles (but be sure to never leave them unattended!). Beeswax candles are amazing air purifiers due to their release of negative ions, which cancel out many of the already existing positive ions in the air, which have been released from dust, pollen, etc.
  • Not into candles? Salt lamps have the same effect!
  • Invest in house plants! Just make sure they are pet friendly if you have a four-legged friend in the household! House plants have numerous benefits, including an increase in oxygen, allergy relief and mood-boosting properties. They also absorb toxins. A few house plants to consider:
    • Bamboo
    • Spider plant
    • English ivy
    • Dragon tree
    • Peace lily
  • Activated charcoal also purifies the air. Additionally, it removes odor.
    • Have a smelly refrigerator in the work lounge or in your kitchen? Both activated charcoal and baking soda work as agents to eliminate odor. Just place an opened jar or bowl of activated charcoal or an opened box of baking soda inside the refrigerator, and say goodbye to that smell!
  • Smell something different? Something musty? It could be mold! Have your home checked by a professional (such as your SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North!) as mold can be hazardous to breathe in.
  • Replace older appliance and fixtures with newer, energy-efficient ones. 

And if you do have visible mold, our SERVPRO technicians can clean up & mitigate. Just give us a call, 301-340-1313.

Does Mold Die in the Winter?

11/30/2023 (Permalink)

condensation on windows If you see condensation on windows from inside, be sure to dry the area! Keeping windows closed keeps out the cold, but also shuts out ventilation.

Another cold front is on its way to Maryland and as the area gets more of those as Winter arrives, you may wonder if mold is still a concern even in extreme cold temperatures. Will snow or ice wipe it out?

Unfortunately, no. If you were trying to find a benefit of painfully cold temperatures, this certainly isn’t one.

While the cold can deactivate mold spores, warmer weather has the ability to quickly reactivate them. The spores will then begin to grow again. So watch out! The cold winter months of the Rockville, Olney and Silver Spring region does not put your home or office in the clear from mold growth.

Here are a few tips to prevent mold growth in your home or commercial property during the winter months:

  • Make sure your pipes are insulated to ensure they will not crack or burst
  • Check the seals on your windows and doors. Are they in good condition? This is important in keeping moisture out!
  • Is there water collecting on the ground around your building? Sometimes snowmelt can create puddles, which turns into moisture seeping into your home or office. If this is the case, find a way to drain the water (ground around your building should slope away from the foundation).
  • If you are indoors and see condensation on pipes, windows or walls, dry the area completely and investigate the cause. Is there a leak? Is there a reason why there is high humidity?
    • Oftentimes, there will be high humidity in a building during the winter due to lack of ventilation. Having the windows closed will keep the cold air out, but also shuts out ventilation/fresh air.

If you experience a mold issue or simply want to have your home or commercial building inspected, contact SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney or SERVPRO of Silver Spring North. We are the area’s mold damage mitigation experts, serving the area for 43+ years! 301-340-1313.

Got a BIG water or fire damage? We've got the Equipment & Manpower!

11/16/2023 (Permalink)

Crew members handling green equipment In over your head with a water or fire disaster? Don't panic! Our Disaster Recovery Team is here to help 24/7.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North are equipped with the most advanced tools and with the most reliable and competent vehicles, including huge tractor trailers! Our tractor trailers are spacious enough to carry the equipment and tools needed to complete any size job! From condominiums to restaurants, office buildings to schools, no job is too large for us.

Large or small, our team is trained on how to get the job right the first time to your utmost satisfaction. With careful precision and efficiency, our awesome Commercial Large Loss Division will be “Faster to any size disaster.”

We know you’re in a hurry to get back into the swing of things. The damage caused by fire, water, etc. not only interrupts your daily life, but also the lives of your employees and clients. That’s why we at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North are right on the job and will completely remediate and restore your property with speed and accuracy.

You can rest assured knowing we are dedicated to handing your property back to you just the way it was before the damage occurred. Our commercial operations manager will personally supervise your case from start to finish to ensure timeliness and full communication throughout the entire process.

We are here 24/7, 365 days a year. Call us, SERVPRO Team Gutierrez at 301-340-1313.

Safety tips to prevent Christmas tree & house fires

11/16/2023 (Permalink)

top part of christmas tree Christmas isn't Christmas without a tree with lights! But follow these safety tips to prevent a fire!

With Thanksgiving just a week away, Christmas is near and for many, putting up a holiday tree is a post-Thanksgiving ritual!

During the winter holiday season, we notice a pattern of catastrophes, many caused by ovens, stoves and yes, Christmas trees! Due to the business and excitement overload of the holidays, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Set reminders and alarms in your phone to ensure you don’t forget to turn your Christmas tree lights off or to take the cookies out of the oven!

To avoid issues such as a tree fire, house fire, outlet overload, and even electrocution, follow these tips to help keep you & your family safe and happy during this holiday season:

  • Water your tree daily! A dry tree can quickly transform into a tree in flames.
  • Do not connect more than three strings of lights.
  • Got cords? Keep them away from heat sources. Do not nail or staple them either. Placing them under a rug isn’t a safe idea. Neither is completely shutting a door or closing a window with a cord running through it. This is a fire hazard.
  • Plugging in too many appliances can overload the outlet. Avoid doing so.
  • Before plugging in appliances, lights, yard decorations, etc., make sure your sockets are in good condition and that wires are not bare. Oftentimes, we use these decorations or particular outlets just once a year, so it’s important to carefully inspect them.
  • Turn off and unplug any lights before going to sleep or leaving your home. Extinguish any candles before leaving the vicinity.
  • Cooking or baking for the holidays? Make sure to stay in the kitchen when doing so.
  • Use battery-operated candles instead of candles with actual flames.
  • Water and electricity never mix well. Be careful your string lights are not touching or partially in the tree’s water bowl. Make sure you are dry when plugging in outdoor lights!
  • It’s cold, but be careful where you place space heaters. They should always be at least 3 feet away from furniture, etc. and even farther from Christmas trees.

Team Gutierrez at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North wishes our customers and friends a happy & safe holiday season!

For more fire safety tips, check out our website: 

www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/fire-damage-tips

Mold: We cannot ignore it, but we can prevent it

11/16/2023 (Permalink)

Man faces black mold on wall Mold can grow just about anywhere in our home or business. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney can help with mold remediation.

Mold can be found just about anywhere around us, and there’s always some level of mold or mildew in our home or business building.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers the following tips to help prevent mold growth in your home:

  • Keep humidity levels in your home as low as you can—no higher than 50%–all day long. An air conditioner or dehumidifier will help you keep the level low. You can buy a meter to check your home’s humidity at a home improvement store. Humidity levels change over the course of a day so you will need to check the humidity levels more than once a day.
  • Be sure the air in your home flows freely. Use exhaust fans that vent outside your home in the kitchen and bathroom. Make sure your clothes dryer vents outside your home.
  • Fix any leaks in your home’s roof, walls, or plumbing so mold does not have moisture to grow.
  • Clean up and dry out your home fully and quickly (within 24–48 hours) after a flood.
  • Add mold inhibitors to paints before painting. You can buy mold inhibitors at paint and home improvement stores.
  • Clean bathrooms with mold-killing products.
  • Remove or replace carpets and upholstery that have been soaked and cannot be dried right away. Think about not using carpet in places like bathrooms or basements that may have a lot of moisture.
  • To learn more about preventing mold in your home, see the Environmental Protection Agency’s book A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home at www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-10/documents/moldguide12.pdf

To learn more about mold, how to clean it and whether to test for mold in your home, check out this article by CDC:

www.cdc.gov/mold/control_mold.htm

In the event you have severe and visible mold in your home or business, leave it to Team Gutierrez at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North. We are the experts on mold remediation, as well as fire & water cleanup and restoration. Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313.

We're 'Faster to Any Size Disaster' because Flooding doesn't wait

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

flooded family room Water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither does SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North provide 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 beyond. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North crews arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning & restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call SERVPRO Team Gutierrez 24/7 – 301-340-1313

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 Us

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North specialize in the cleanup, restoration and reconstruction 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.

Certifications

  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • HST - Health and safety Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program

Remediating Mold in Your Rockville, Olney or Silver Spring Home

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

Mold growth on floor Mold remediation is a job for the professionals. Let SERVPRO Team Gutierrez help!

SERVPRO® uses different cleaning methods for each unique surface to remediate mold

Mold is often undetectable in homes until it has become a significant problem. Not every type of mold has that distinctive, ‘musty’ odor and if the growth started behind a wall or in the attic, the smell is not noticeable until the mold has grown into a large colony of spores.

Restoring a home due to the effects of mold damage is a task that needs a professional service. SERVPRO Team Gutierrez keeps a trained crew on 24-hour notice to support our neighbors and customers. We have some of the best-trained personnel in the industry to clean mold from the property and safely remove it from each home.

These technicians first determine the type of surface infested. This inspection decides both the cleaning methods needed and how much time may be required to complete the job. We usually divide surfaces into porous, nonporous, and semi-porous categories.

Porous surfaces are typically building materials and fabrics; drywall and upholstery for example. They are often cleanable, but if the mold is very thick or has grown into the material, we dispose of it. Our cleaning methods for these surfaces involve vacuuming them with special HEPA filters that catch tiny amounts of loose mold, even a single spore.

After finishing vacuuming, we move on to using spray bottles with an antimicrobial cleaner and foaming agents to dampen the surface. Wetting loosens the mold and allows technicians to remove it with cloths and sponges.

Nonporous surfaces are the easiest to clean. This category includes metal and glass tabletops as well as marble and smooth stone kitchen countertops. In many cases, we can remove the mold with dry cloths and sponges. Technicians wipe down the surfaces from top to bottom to prevent accidentally leaving spores at the top or along the sides. If the mold layer is thick, we vacuum it first before dry wiping.

Semi-porous surfaces (concrete and wood decks for example) require methods not acceptable on other surfaces. Affected surfaces may need sanding to wire brushing and other abrasive tools to dig out the mold. The cleaners we use on these surfaces would mar or otherwise destroy glass and metal surfaces. If mold has penetrated the surface of the wood or concrete, technicians may have to sand them down by hand or with a power sander to remove it.

Returning your home to its pre-mold condition is not a quick or easy set of processes. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North has years of experience in helping our customers through each step to put you back into your home. Call (301) 340-1313 today to set up an inspection.

We can help restore cherished photos damaged by water

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

photos damaged by water If the pictures are old, consult a professional photograph restorer; meantime, have the wet images dry out.

If you’ve experienced a flood in your home, chances are many of your belongings were damaged by the waters. Among your valuables, your photographs are most likely one of your most personal and cherished items.

Whatever the loss, losing pictures to a flood can be one of the most devastating aspects. You feel powerless as these family heirlooms passed down for decades or a priceless image is seemingly damaged and potentially lost due to the waters of the flood.

Don’t stress too much! There may be hope.

There are plenty of tips on how to salvage your photos. Surprisingly, most can be cleaned and dried.

Follow the steps promptly to avoid damage. Please note, you should follow these steps within at most two days, or else they will begin to mold and stick together. 

  1. Gently remove the photographs from the water. If any pictures are stuck together, carefully separate. If they will not part easily, do not force a separation.
  2. Using cold, clean water, rinse each side of the picture. This way, any dirt will come off.
  3. On an indoor flat surface, lay down paper towels. Lay the photo, face-up, on the paper towel, and replace the paper towel (as it will get wet) with a dry one each hour, until completely dried.

If you want to want to put the drying process on hold, place the wet photos (after rinsing with cold, clean water) between sheets of wax paper before storing them in an airtight plastic bag in the freezer. 

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North can help restore your valuables. If you are concerned about water damage in your home (walls, floors, etc.), we will restore your home, too. We are the water damage restoration experts!

If you have any questions or needs, give us a call today at 301-340-1313.

Flames or Soot: Restoring a home after a fire can be stressful

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

fire damage and soot in kitchen Fire damage can be devastating. Give us a call today, and we will make the restoration process as easy as possible for you.

Our SERVPRO® of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North emergency response crews recently responded to a couple of commercial fires, a hi-rise condo building and an older apartment building. Restoring a home — whether a condo, apartment or single-family — after fire damage is a difficult and emotional process. Not only are we here to help with the cleanup and restoration of your property, but for your family as well.

Flames can cause the most visible damage to your property but the most damage comes from the smoke and soot. Soot is a coating of fine, black dust created when substances are burned. Inhaling soot can cause health effects. It is important to our team that we get rid of all the after-effects of the fire — not only the damage but also the odor. Our expertise and experience allow us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.

Before restoration begins, our SERVPRO® of Rockville-Olney expert will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will be based on which type of smoke damage there is. Below are the different types of smoke:

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.

Call SERVPRO® Team Gutierrez of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North when you're in need of cleaning after fire strikes. We know it is hard seeing your home in flames and we are here to restore it the best we can. We're here 24/7 to help. 301-340-1313.

Tips for a safe Thanksgiving

11/6/2023 (Permalink)

a thanksgiving turkey Follow these tips for a safe turkey bake & Thanksgiving!

Autumn is in full swing if the colorful foliage and cool weather are any indication. Which means Thanksgiving is just around the corner!

While Thanksgiving is a joyous time when family and friends gather together and give thanks, it’s also the time of year when the number of house fires increases. Our teams at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North offer a few tips to better ensure your safety, as well as the safety of your family, pets, property and belongings during the holiday season.

First, let's talk turkey, and oven preparation. To prepare, clean your stove and oven. Old food crumbs and grease must be removed. Over time, grease can build up, leaving quite a residue that can be flammable.

When you’re ready to put your turkey in the oven, set a timer. Also make sure your smoke alarms are working in case of an emergency.

While a fire caused by baking a turkey in the oven is much less common than a fire caused by frying a turkey, it’s still very important to take all precautions and while in use, to monitor the oven closely.

A few safety tips to follow include:

  • No long sleeves while cooking to avoid catching on fire
  • Pot handles turned towards the back of the stove to avoid tipping or falling
  • Remember health safety tips, too!
  • Thaw and dry properly
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure turkey has been fully cooked

SERVPRO Team Gutierrez wishes our customers & friends a very happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Check out our website for more fire safety tips: www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/fire-damage-tips

Considering a move to Rockville, Olney or Silver Spring?

11/6/2023 (Permalink)

Metro rail The Metro can save you a lot of time and money and a convenient way to travel.

We love our Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North communities! Thinking about moving here? We’ll give you a few reasons why our community stands out to us!

Great schools: Montgomery County Public Schools are nationally ranked and recognized. Additionally, the area boasts many great private schools if you are looking for those options. Rockville is also the home of Montgomery College, Rockville Campus. For an affordable tuition, you can obtain your associate degree from this institution for a fraction of what you would pay at other colleges and universities.

Quick access to transit: Our area offers public transportation ranging from buses to trains. While the Metro rail allows quick access from Rockville and Silver Spring (and many other stations in surrounding areas) to DC, parts of Virginia and other local hotspots, bus services from Metrobus and Ride On are available throughout the county with thousands of bus stops.

Plenty of shopping centers, restaurants, entertainment: Rockville Pike is known for its diversity of restaurants. In addition, it has many top-notch shopping centers and about every store you can think of along its stretch. Looking for something fun to do? Rockville provides plenty of entertainment to its residents and guests alike- and in very close proximity so you won’t have to drive far and can definitely save gas.

With ice rinks (indoor and outdoor), movie theaters, bowling alleys, malls, community events and festivals to nearby hiking trails and places to rent kayaks and canoes, Rockville is a happening place!

Safe communities: Our Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North communities tends to be very family-oriented and diverse. People from around the world come to live in our communities as our area has much to offer. From amazing career opportunities to safe neighborhoods, the Rockville-Olney area is a great place to have a family and to start a great career alike. Our towns make great effort to keep residents safe by installing sidewalks to promote safer exercise, creating crosswalks, putting up speed cameras, and ensuring roads are smooth. Pedestrian safety is really prioritized, and it leads to a stronger community!

Close to Washington, D.C. (can easily metro from Silver Spring, Rockville, Twin Brook, or Shady Grove stations, to name a few): As mentioned above, our area is close to DC! It’s a happening place. From weekend activities such as parades and museum trips, we are fortunate to have easy access to a city where people from around the world come to vacation to. We can’t forget to mention jobs! Many of our residents commute to DC daily for work. It’s a city of opportunity.

Arts, history and culture: Our area is known by its culture and history. Much of it is celebrated through art. Our area offers a wide variety of tours, including tours of farms, mansions, and old school houses for example. There happens to be many museums and theaters in our area as well. Keep an eye out on community pages for local concert series, pop-ups and festivities.

A few great spots to explore history, culture and talent include:

Sandy Spring Museum, Sandy Spring, Md.

Olney Theatre Center, Olney, Md.

Agricultural History Farm Park, Derwood, Md.

Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville, Md.

Glenview Mansion and Art Gallery, Rockville, Md.

National Capital Trolley Museum, Silver Spring, Md.

If you’ve never visited the Rockville, Olney, Silver Spring area, we at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North encourage you to do so!

Take these precautions to ensure your daycare is safe!

11/6/2023 (Permalink)

a daycare center Whether you manage a daycare or send your kids to one, we know your primary concerns are their safety & well-being. SERVPRO Rockville-Olney can help.

At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, we knows it’s important to make sure your commercial property reaches a high standard when it comes to a clean and safe environment for your clients, employees, etc. Quite often, we help schools and daycares in the Rockville, Olney, Silver Spring North and surrounding areas reach these standards.

It’s very important to ensure your smallest customers are safe and healthy at all times, especially during these post-pandemic times and especially since children are more susceptible to common issues such as mold, as well as bacteria pests such as rodents can leave behind, for instance.

Maybe you own or manage a daycare. Maybe you are considering starting your own daycare, or maybe you are a parent considering which daycare to enroll your child in.

Here's a checklist of what a daycare should include to provide the safest environment possible. Please note this list focuses on a few security measures, emergency safety measures, as well as cleanliness measures. There are many other factors involved with regard to a daycare facility; they can be investigated in more detail on the web.

Here are a few:                      

  • Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers must be present and in excellent, working condition
  • Windows in every classroom to provide fresh air and an emergency exit
  • Clean sleeping area, play areas and toys (including carpets and upholstery, which can easily become soiled at daycares!)
  • All cleaning supplies must be locked away
  • Electrical outlets must be covered
  • Strict hygiene procedures (important when changing diapers)
  • Any necessary safety and cleanliness certifications (state and/or county, depending on local laws)
  • Regular health and cleanliness inspections
  • Documented emergency evacuation plans
  • Mold-free
  • Any expired food the center provided must be discarded
  • Professional pest removal is needed if you suspect or know there are pests in the building. Mouse traps present a danger, especially to small hands that like to get into everything!
    • Pests can carry diseases, bite children, and leave trails of bacteria behind
  • Fire drills are necessary in preparing for a smoother evacuation in an unfortunate event when an actual fire might take place
    • Similar to drills for potential earthquakes or storms, especially if the region is prone to these acts of nature
  • Locking gates at the top and bottom of any stairs
  • Exterior locking doors

We have worked around Montgomery County, Maryland and beyond to ensure local schools and daycares are clean and safe places! Whether involved with mold remediation, restoring flood damages, or performing a general cleaning, we make it a priority to keep the children in our community safe and healthy.

If you have any cleaning & restoration needs at your daycare facilities, don’t hesitate to give SERVPRO Team Gutierrez a call today at 301-340-1313.

Help the Environment, and your Wallet, by conserving Water!

11/6/2023 (Permalink)

Water swirls Help the environment (and your wallet) today by conserving water in your home or office!

Our Rockville, Olney and Silver Spring areas of Montgomery County, Maryland experience our share of storms every season, so we see a lot of aftermath from home flooding, which means a lot of wasted water. Excessive amounts of water leaking, bursting, or draining cause these floods. Check out our website for information on how we clean up and restore the flooded areas:

www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/water-repair-process

In this blog, we'd like to address water conservation, and to provide you with useful tips you can follow to save on your water bill and to save our natural resources alike. Following these tips can also prevent a water catastrophe from occurring in your home:

  • Check your toilet for leaks (the old food coloring trick is a sure way to discover any)
  • Check for leaks in pipes and faucets too
  • Do not leave you water running the entire time you brush your teeth, shaving or showering
  • Purchase water-saving appliances (a shower head is probably the cheapest and will save you)
  • Wait until you have enough clothes for a full load to do laundry
  • Position your lawn sprinkler in the most efficient way possible. Oftentimes, sprinkler water ends up watering the road or sidewalks
  • Plant drought-resistant plants and trees
  • Use a broom, instead of a hose, to remove dust and dirt from your sidewalks, etc.
  • Reuse water when possible. You can water your garden instead of allowing a lot of the water you’ve used to flow down the drain
  • Capture rainwater! Invest in a water drum to catch water from gutters and downspouts

And in the unfortunate event your home or business gets flooded during the next storm, help is a phone call away. Call Team Gutierrez of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North 24/7 at 301-340-1313.

We are here to help!

What To Do When Dealing With Fire Damage in Your Home

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

burned house SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North are the experts on restoring fire, water and mold damage. We make it "Like it never even happened."

Life has enough interruptions and bumps along the way without the unwanted disaster of a house fire.

The aftermath is almost as bad, but much longer-lasting. Even small fires can merit the use of a professional restoration company. Cooking fires that spread beyond the stove, barbecue grills that go haywire, and even small appliances that catch fire can cause damage to surrounding areas. 

Small Fires Can Pose High Risks 

While you should never pour water on a grease fire, nor on an electrical one, many times that is a person's first reaction. This can cause even more damage. Cooking fires and electrical shorts are common causes of fire in Montgomery County. It can also create physical risks to people standing nearby. With grease fires, baking soda should be poured into the skillet and any grease or oil that has caught fire outside of the cooking pan or skillet instead of water. 

With electrical fires, the appliance should be unplugged if it can be safely done, but not by pulling on the cord. This can cause the cord to snap, leaving the plug without the cord still in the outlet. The power to the area where this is happening should be shut off at the fuse box as quickly as possible to eliminate the hazard. 

After the Fire is Out, It's Time to Repair the Damage 

After firefighters put out the fire, have someone assess the damages for you. This can often help with insurance documentation. Landlords, if you are renting, will also appreciate if you inform them of the fire, and they can see the damage for themselves. It is every landlord's worst nightmare to have a fire or flood damage their properties. If they can see the amount of damage, they can rest easier knowing the extent of the repairs required. Fires do happen, through nobody's fault, and your landlord will know this. 

Damage can range from blackened walls and countertops to heavily burned surfaces, electrical wires being damaged and requiring replacement, to floors suffering damage so severe they must be replaced to be safe again. Having experts assess and conduct the repairs needed can greatly facilitate insurance claims being resolved, as well. 

Hopefully you will never have to experience a fire in your home, business or building, but if you have recently dealt with this catastrophe and need professional restoration to your residential or commercial property, give us a call today at 301-340-1313.

At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North, Team Gutierrez technicians are the experts on restoring fire, water and mold-damaged property. We are “faster to any size disaster.” No job is too large or too small!

Got MOLD? Leave it to your friends at SERVPRO Rockville-Olney!

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

mold on walls and floors SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North are the experts on restoring fire, water and mold damage. We make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold can be visible or not.

If you see visible mold in your office or other commercial property, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread this mold infestation throughout your building, office, store, or other structures. When mold is disturbed, it can release microscopic mold spores that become airborne and can circulate inside the building. This can create or worsen health effects for your employees, customers and you.

What to Do:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North 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 Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North specialize in mold cleanup and restoration; in fact, it is a cornerstone of our businesses. Our crews are highly-trained restoration professionals who use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 301-340-1313. We are here to help!

How to recover damaged items after flooding

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

flooded living room It’s essential to dry items within 48 hours after a house flood, if you want to salvage your goods.

If you’ve ever experienced a house flood, you might have lost a few items, or maybe you lost most of your possessions depending on the extent of the waters and how long you waited to dry your furnishings, accessories and trinkets.

If you want to salvage your goods after experiencing a flood, it’s essential you dry items within a 48-hour timeframe.

We want to offer some tips & suggestions on how to salvage your items:

  • Improve air circulation! Don’t contain the moisture. Instead, open windows and doors. If there are no windows or doors leading outside in the particular room, open closet and cabinet doors.
  • Turn on a fan! It can either be a ceiling fan, a floor fan, or both. However, please do not plug a fan into an outlet attached to a wall that is wet or has water behind it. That’s an easy way to get electrocuted.
  • Use a dehumidifier. These remove water vapor from the air. To be effective, it must be used in a contained area. Be sure to shut all doors and windows during use to prohibit more humidity from entering.
  • Use a sump pump. These remove water out of house or office through a hose or pipe. They’re useful when the floodwater level is more than a couple inches deep. 
  • Got soaked items? Quick! Take them out of your house. Allow them to dry off in the sun. Keeping them indoors will ensure nothing ever dries up as their excessive moisture will travel to surrounding objects.
  • Try a wet-dry shop vacuum. Never use a regular vacuum cleaner. A shop vac is specifically made for wet conditions.

At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, we are water damage restoration experts. With the latest, state-of-the-art equipment and certified technicians, you can trust us to clean up and restore your property back to how it used to be! We also offer content restoration, as oftentimes our customers want to salvage and not discard their valuables, even furniture and paintings... Ask us about content restoration!

You can review our water damage restoration process here:

https://www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/water-damage-restoration

Give SERVPRO Team Gutierrez a call at 301-340-1313 if we can help!

Our Teams Are IICRC-Trained and Certified

10/25/2023 (Permalink)

IICRC logo Our technicians are certified & trained in the latest industry techniques and services.

At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North, we strive for excellence at every job we do. It's why our team members go through regular training and certification.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is recognized internationally as a knowledgeable industry voice and resource. It serves as an independent, nonprofit standard-setting and certification body, to set and promote high standards of ethics; and to advance communication and technical proficiency within the inspection, cleaning and restoration service industries.

The IICRC offers certifications in several categories of Cleaning, Inspection and Restoration. Additionally, there are Journeyman certifications available to those with advanced levels of recognition, which can be achieved by having several certifications in select categories and a minimum of three to five years of experience in the cleaning and restoration industry.

Our SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North technicians are IICRC-certified and continue their education and certification throughout their employment. As new certifications become available through the IICRC, steps are taken to ensure that our technicians are certified in the latest techniques and services. Our customers can rest assured knowing that only the most qualified technicians will be sent into your business or home to restore and repair damage when you use our company!

Our accolades speak for themselves, as SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney was named 2023 Small Business of the Year by the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and 2021 Small Business of the Year by the Rockville Chamber of Commerce. 

We are here 24/7 to help tackle water, fire, mold or biohazard damage to your property, residential or commercial. Call us, SERVPRO Team Gutierrez, at 301-340-1313.

When water disasters strike, call SERVPRO Team Gutierrez ASAP!

10/24/2023 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO crew & green trucks respond swiftly to emergency water damage. Water intrusion can spread through your building and wreak havoc to the structural integrity and equipment. Call 301-340-1313 right away!

Our DMV (District of Washington, Maryland & Virginia) region including the Rockville, Olney & Silver Spring area has seen flooding problems due to heavy rainfall.

Water damage can shut down your office building. Water can cause damage that you can see, but also damage that is not easily visible. No matter the damage, you need to call in a professional remediation service, such as SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North, even if you think the repairs are small. Water takes the path of least resistance, so it finds its way through building materials where the water eventually gets trapped and can create rot and mold growth.

Emergency water removal is the first step in preventing more damage to your property. Once the water has been dried out by our technicians, we thoroughly inspect your property and determine what has been affected and what is okay. We can then focus our effects on restoring the damaged areas. The drying & restoration process can usually be finished in a few days and is monitored closely to ensure proper drying. Water damage can be from any of the reasons below:

Plumbing Failure
These events can release hundreds of gallons of water quickly into your office building. Malfunction can result from broken pipes, malfunctioning sprinkler systems, loose hoses and other plumbing sources.

Local Flooding
Flooding can come from sudden, heavy rainfalls. Intense downpours can flood gutters, drains and downspouts quickly, and the overflow can cause severe water damage to your business.

Long-Term Moisture & Humidity
Small leaks usually hide and are overlooked; however, overtime they lead to water damage problems that need repair. Ceilings, wall cavities, bathrooms, hallways and attics are the most susceptible areas to mold growth and wood rot from continued exposure. Basements and vented crawlspaces are also environments that can be humid, leading to similar water and mold issues. Standing water can fast turn into damage that is more widespread if not cleaned up right away. Mold starts growing in as little as 24 hours after a water intrusion and can spread through your building and do much harm to the structural integrity, plus to the health of your employees and any equipment inside.

If you want a trusted, professional company to come out to your property to access water damage and to begin the restoration process, call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North, 301-340-1313.

Our powerful truck-mounted water extraction equipment and our specially-trained technicians are just what you need when a water disaster strikes your office building.

Graffiti, sewer, biohazards... SERVPRO Rockville can tackle them all!

10/24/2023 (Permalink)

Our crews in hazmaz suits to tackle biohaz spills. Our commercial services include water & fire cleanup and restoration, biohazards & mold remediation, and reconstruction of damaged properties.

Team Gutierrez of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North offers a plethora of commercial services including water & fire cleanup and restoration, biohazards and mold remediation, as well as reconstruction of damaged properties.

From office buildings and restaurants, to schools, government agencies and malls, even churches, we solve problems anywhere from water damage to mold and soot damage.   

We realize it’s important to keep your commercial property in the best repair possible. Your building, both on the outside and inside, is oftentimes the face of the company.

Below are a few of the most common issues commercial properties face. You may want to take note of these issues and check your building for them. If you do come across any of these problems, it’s important to get them fixed immediately, as holding off can increase the problem - and cost.

Check for the following (or you may need to hire a professional to investigate for some of these):

  • Leaks: From roofs to gutters, to serious moisture buildup, water leaks can cause an assortment of problems including mold growth and rotting
  • Asbestos: If your building is older than 20 years, you should have it inspected for asbestos, which if present, can cause detrimental effects on one’s health
  • Cracking: Could possibly be a sign of an underlying problem in the building’s structure
  • Fire and safety regulations: Make sure your building and property meet all standards regarding the current safety and fire requirements
  • Infestation of bugs or rodents: Yikes! No one feels comfortable working in a building knowing it’s home to an abundance of rodents. It also doesn’t look pleasant to visitors or clients when ants or gnats are buzzing around or see a few rodent droppings. Additionally, pests can damage the wiring of a building.
  • High energy costs: Keeping your commercial building in good repair can help keep your energy consumption at a manageable level. Also consider installing energy-efficient lighting & appliances. Consider creating energy and water-saving campaigns throughout your building. Make colorful posters and have prizes for whichever floor most actively participates, for example.
  • Electrical faults: Dead outlets, melting wires, and faulty circuits can cause fires. A trusted electrician should be called to check out the situation immediately.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North are here to help. Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313.

Is Your Business Resilient?

10/20/2023 (Permalink)

A business plan spread on a desk It's important to make a plan with your team for your business in case of disasters.

Is your business resilient?

According to FEMA, around 40-60 percent of small businesses that have been struck by disaster will not reopen. Think the most recent natural disaster: Hurricane Idalia, a Cat 4 destructive storm that left entire neighborhoods in the southeast including the Carolinas, Florida and Georgia submerged.

Many people don’t consider the serious impact a disaster, such as a storm, fire, or flood, can have on a small business. It not only can destroy the building and surrounding property of the business, but can also destroy essential information, contacts, etc..., which can put a quick end to the business’ existence.

By taking action before a disaster strikes, you can take steps to increase your employees’ safety, your business’ resiliency, and your clients’ trust.

These steps below may be helpful to keep your business safe:

  • Keep your company records, documents, and contacts stored in paperless form (on Google Drive or iCloud, for example)
  • Pre-establish policies for employees, vendors and customers in order to maintain trust and stability, and also to retain relationships and positions
  • Do a threat analysis. Assess any possible risks your business may be susceptible to, from a hurricane to a cyber attack
  • Develop a continuity plan. FEMA recommends creating your plan using these four steps:
  1. Conduct a business impact analysis
  2. Identify, document and implement recovery strategies
  3. Compile a business continuity plan with others in your business
  4. Conduct training, testing, drills and exercises to teach, practice and evaluate the plan

Additionally, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney suggests contacting us to put in place a response plan should your business experience a storm or fire that may cause water and smoke damage to your business property.

Our SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) can help give you, your employees and customers peace of mind. Our ERP allows for quick restoration response to help minimize disruption of your business. Call us today, 301-340-1313.

Mold? Leave the Mitigation to SERVPRO Team Gutierrez, the Experts!

10/20/2023 (Permalink)

Black mold at window and floor corners Best leave it to the professionals like SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney to clean up & mitigate mold damage!

Mold can seem almost benign due to its slow rate of visible damage and sluggish spreading but make no mistake: It can pose a health hazard to you once it has taken hold.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North - or Team Gutierrez - technicians take frequent courses and training on mold safety and remediation. There are many species of fungi that can create widely varied situations and problems depending on a high number of factors. If you have uncovered mold in your home, protecting your health and safety becomes a concern, and should top your list of priorities.

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you live and work in your home during the remediation service:

You May Want to Wear a Mask
Mold damage has a potential to cause respiratory health issues, in particular for individuals with weakened immune systems or asthma. SERVPRO technicians have access to industrial-grade protective masks and even suits when needed, and you should, at the very least, try to protect your mouth and sinuses with a mask when working near mold damage. For those with asthma or respiratory issues, the urgency of this precaution is even higher. We firmly recommend that you do not grapple with this problem. Our main advice is to call us for professional mitigation. Be safe, not sorry.
 
Hands Off
Some types of mold can produce toxic or infectious byproducts, making the act of touching mold with your bare hands potentially dangerous. In general, you should never touch visible mold growth, as doing so can not only hurt you but also spread the mold to other surfaces. If you touch mold by accident, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before touching other surfaces.
 
Be Mindful of Other Dangers
Many mold damage cases come with additional problems, whether or not you are aware of them. That patch of mold could be the result of a five-year-old water pipe leak, and in addition to allowing mold growth, it may have already long weakened the surrounding structure. Being aware of structural issues and other types of damage could save you money while protecting your home investment.
 
SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North are ready 24/7 to respond to local disasters and home damages. We're a phone call away, 301-340-1313.

Most Home Fires Start in the Kitchen

10/20/2023 (Permalink)

fire flame in pan in the kitchen Follow these quick tips to help prevent a major fire damage emergency in your home!

With Halloween just around the corner, the holiday season won't be far after that, which means that many of us will be spending a lot more time in the kitchen.

This also means that, with every dish we cook on the stove or in the oven, every pumpkin pie and each batch of Christmas cookies you make, there is a greater risk of a fire emergency. 

Aside from calling 9-1-1, which should be one of your first moves, here are some quick tips for dealing with a fire emergency in your kitchen.

  1. Always watch your cooking; don't leave anything unattended
  2. Set a timer so that you don't accidentally burn something or forget that an appliance is being used
  3. If something on the stove catches on fire and it is small, cover it with a lid and turn off the burner
  4. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen near your cooking area where it is easily accessible
  5. Add baking soda to a grease fire, not water
  6. Clean your appliances regularly so that grease does not accumulate and start a fire
  7. Clean and dust around and behind appliances, as dust accumulation can cause fires if it is close to electrical wiring
  8. Keep flammable objects away from cooking appliances, especially items like tea towels and potholders 
  9. Install a smoke alarm in your kitchen
  10. Test your smoke alarms and make sure they will work when you most need them!

Keep these quick tips in mind to help prevent a major fire damage emergency from taking place in your home this season!

In the event that you've got fire or water damage in your home, you can count on the experts like us, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North, to respond quickly to restore your property to minimize further damage. Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313.

SERVPRO Team Gutierrez will make it "Like it never even happened!"

Autumn colors are nice, but the storms... not so much!

10/20/2023 (Permalink)

Autumn colors against stormy sky Autumn weather & colors are welcome, but not seasonal thunderstorms that can wreak havoc to property. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney can help!

The cool weather and changing colors have arrived in Rockville, Olney and the rest of Maryland, and as the warm and humidity from Summer mix with the drier air, the encounter can result in an increase of thunderstorms.

Gusty winds, heavy rainfall and lightning are among the most common characteristics of a thunderstorm. When a thunderstorm updraft has enough strength to carry water to an area with below-freezing temperatures, hailstones begin to form. When the hailstones become too heavy for the updraft to hold, they are released, and that is when hail falls to the ground.

Damages caused by the winds, rainfall, lightning and hail can have devastating effects on your property, residential and business.

Post-storm damages are not limited to, but can certainly include water, fire, and even mold damages.

If you experience any problems, either residential or commercial, Team Gutierrez of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North will get you back on your feet fast, with our crews' extensive knowledge and swift response.

If you want to ensure you don’t face any stormy issues this season, give us a call at (301) 340-1313, and we will help prepare a plan for quick response, and we can make your property "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney: Well-equipped for any size water damage disasters

10/20/2023 (Permalink)

Green trucks and air dryers Rest assured we are well-trained and well-equipped to restore your damaged property.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North provide 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 beyond. Crews from SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning & restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 301-340-1313

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 & 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 Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North specialize in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. 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 crews are equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313!

Certifications

  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • HST - Health and Safety Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program

Call us anytime, 24/7/365. Team Gutierrez is here to help!

Why your business needs a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

image of a couple looking at a phone Having a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile can save a lot of time, energy and money when disasters strike.

Disasters can strike at anytime, anywhere, and Montgomery County, Maryland is no exception.

Did you know up to 50% of businesses afflicted by a disaster will never reopen? The statistic may be shocking, but what isn’t very surprising is that the vast majority of the surviving businesses had previously established a preparedness plan.   

Prevention saves a lot of time, energy and money. Unfortunately, all catastrophes cannot be prevented, which means it is imperative to have an emergency plan in place just in case an unexpected event occurs.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan application works to prevent situations from escalating. The app, designed for commercial use, is marketed towards property and risk managers and towards business owners.

Some benefits of the app include:

  • An assessment at no charge
  • A Profile Document containing only necessary information geared for a time of emergency
  • A quick reference for you and your employees (especially if the owner/manager is away on a business trip, for example).
  • A free guide outlining important steps to take post-disaster
  • A connection and direct contact with your local SERVPRO

SERVPRO clients, including those in Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North are offered this service free of charge. After downloading the SERVPRO ERP application onto an electronic device, a SERVPRO employee will meet with the client to map the property they own or manage.

Mapping the territory includes, but is not limited to, making note of water pipes, crawl spaces and fire exits. Information such as the square footage of the building and photographs of the property are collected and stored in the app as well.

Although gathering and recording this information on the app may sound like a lengthy process, employees have noted they can finish the plan in about 30 minutes. Additionally, owners can go back into the app and add more detail or update over time. There’s nothing to lose, and everything to gain!

If you prepare for the future, you will “Save Early for Disaster Costs.” Utilizing tools to prevent damage, to prevent loss, and to prevent losing your business to a disaster, is one of the best ways to ensure the “health” of what you own or manage. 

It’s simple, and it’s free. Save now to avoid large costs later. Download the application in the App Store or from the link below:

https://ready.SERVPRO.com/Home/MobileApp

Please feel free to call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North at 301-340-1313 with any questions you may have about the Emergency Ready Plan. We're also here 24/7 for any cleanup & restoration needs from storm, water, fire or mold damage.

Got an Odor in your home? SERVPRO Rockville can help!

9/6/2023 (Permalink)

cinnamon candle Candles can mask indoor odors temporarily. But for more serious and lingering odor, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney can help!

Detect an odor in your home or business? SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North can help!

First, you might ask where it’s coming from. Is there a specific source that’s letting off this smell? What’s causing it, and how can it be eliminated once and for all?

Sometimes, an odor can originate from a deceased animal trapped in your attic. That’s a simpler cleanup. Other times, the odor could be much more difficult to pinpoint. When the situation is more complex or dispersed, there’s more of a science to identifying the root of the issue.

This is when SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North step in. Our highly-trained technicians have taken IICRC technical classes to learn how to properly identify and remove odors.

Let’s get rid of this smell so that your personal chemical sensor (your nose!) agrees with the surrounding air once again!

Oftentimes, people try masking a serious odor. In attempt to scare the smell away, here are a few common methods used, but are either very temporary or to be used with caution:

  • Purchase and light a candle warmer
  • Spray a pleasant scent
  • Sprinkle baking soda everywhere (which can neutralize odors permanently, however, use caution or avoid if you have pets. If ingested, animals can become ill)
  • Cleaning furniture or walls with soapy water
  • Leaving windows open (which is sometimes a preventative measure to take, but can also allow additional moisture to travel inside depending on climate and temperatures)

If the odor stems from an issue such as mold, a gas leak, improper heating equipment, a blocked chimney, or spilled chemicals, the methods above might cover the smell for a short while, but will not be able to stop the smell from resurfacing. In many of these instances, the smell could lead to sickness or could even be fatal.

If you discover the source, and it’s an easy fix (rotting vegetables in your refrigerator, a bag of old gym shoes in your garage, food stuck in your drain because you forgot to use the garbage disposal, etc.), then you’re in luck. However, you will want to call a professional immediately if the circumstances seem more dangerous/hazardous or if you cannot pinpoint a harmless source after searching.

Leave it to SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North if you want a safe, thorough and effective cleanup. With our extensive knowledge and latest, state-of-the-art equipment, we will have the smell source identified, located, and carefully eliminated.

Give us a call at 301-340-1313.

Visit our website for more information: SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/odor-removal-deodorization

We are faster to any disaster when it comes to commercial fire damage restoration!

8/25/2023 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO truck in front of building Our crews recently provided cleanup & restoration services to a local condo building that suffered al fire on its top floors.

Has your commercial property recently experienced a fire?

Whether you manage or own commercial property, you know that fire loss can be extremely devastating. Not only does fire destroy property, furnishings, flooring and much more, but smoke also damages the property, leaving behind soot and strong, fiery odors.

Water damage is an additional loss after a fire. Firefighters must use significant amounts of water to extinguish such a fire. With water damage comes the chance of mold growth. This is why it’s important to have the water completely dried as soon as possible.

Whether you own an office building, shop, car garage, museum, etc., dealing with the aftermath of a fire places a lot of responsibility on you, not to mention the stress. At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, our technicians are highly-trained in all the areas aforementioned: fire, water and mold remediation & restoration. Our tried-and-trued process and equipment ensure that your property will be restored and made “Like it never even happened.”

We also realize how stressful losses can be. When choosing SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North, you can rest assured you are in good hands. Our crew chiefs communicate very closely with clients to answer any questions they may have.

We also realize you are anxious to return to your business. Lost time is lost revenue. We will make sure your business is up and running as soon as it possibly can be. If your business has experienced a fire, call SERVPRO Team Gutierrez 24/7 at 301-340-1313 and we will be there "faster to any size disaster!" 

Are your classrooms, daycares safe for back to school? We can help!

8/25/2023 (Permalink)

a crew cleaning classroom Our SERVPRO crews can deep clean & sanitize classrooms, hallways & other rooms on campuses and daycares to provide safe places for returning students.

Most area school students & staff, including those in Montgomery and Prince George's County Public Schools in Maryland, return to class at the end of August. 

For facilities managers, it's still important to make schools, daycares and places where students and faculty & staff will be spending their daytime learning and teaching and interacting with one another safe places.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North offer a variety of cleaning services, including fogging, electrostatic disinfectant spraying, and proactive cleaning. We have been helping businesses and residences stay safe and protected throughout the COVID-19 crisis and will continue to do so. Sanitized spaces give everyone a peace of mind.

Our services can be recurring, too! Get scheduled for a one-time cleaning, or make services recurring. To learn more about our services, or to schedule a cleaning, call us today at 301-340-1313!

Enjoy the BBQs, Fireworks & Fun, But Be Safe!

6/26/2023 (Permalink)

Barbecue fire A backyard fire may seem fun, but there are risks so be safe!

Summer is traditionally known for fireworks, barbeques and picnics – all musts for major celebrations especially July Fourth!

While putting on a firework show at your own home may seem fun, there are many risks. If lighting fireworks is not legal in your residential area there could be a large fine. Moreover, keep in mind the potential dangers that could occur as a result of fireworks, such as severe burns, blindness and scars.

Kids should not be near or handling the firecrackers or rockets. Supervise children around fireworks at all times. To avoid the dangers of fireworks, enjoy a public fireworks display conducted by professionals.

If you choose to give your children sparklers, never leave children unattended with these. It is possible to get burned by the tip of the sparkler. Make sure your children do not point the sparklers towards themselves or others. Keep a bucket of water nearby for when your child is finished with the sparkler to ensure that the sparkler is no longer lit.

Take precaution for your pets, too! Leave your pets inside your home so there are no risks. Loud fireworks and unfamiliar places can be scary to pets.

Remember these tips when grilling:

  • Never grill in an enclosed area, as carbon monoxide could be produced.
  • Use caution when using lighter fluid on a barbeque. Do not add fluid to an already-lit fire, as the flame can flash back into the container and explode.
  • Make sure children are away from the grill.

Have fun this summer and stay safe!

Know who to call in the event you have fire or water damage in your home or business. Our emergency response teams at SERVPRO® of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North are here 24/7 to help! 301-340-1313.

Be Prepared for Those Unpredictable Summer Storms

6/26/2023 (Permalink)

dark storm clouds Follow these tips to secure your property for those unexpected storms in Maryland.

Summer in Rockville, Olney and other parts of Maryland brings lots of sunshine and pleasant warm weather. It also offers a fair share of storms.

The NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration) predicts a 30% chance of an above-normal season for the Hurricane 2023 season, which begins June 1 and ends Nov. 30.

Our Maryland region has seen recent storms with heavy rain and strong winds, causing trees and powerlines to fall in some counties including Montgomery & Prince George's counties. Lightning, thunder, flying debris and hail can also occur during these storms.

Just last week our emergency services team responded to a residential loss pertaining to a tree that fell on the side of a townhome during a thunderstorm. Our team tarped the affected area to prevent further damage to the home. This emergency tarping prevented other elements, such as rain and dust, from entering inside the cracks and openings of the siding, which the fallen tree caused.

Here are a few tips to make your property more secure during a storm:

Get your roof and foundation checked out. Are there any cracks in your roof? If so, call a professional to have it repaired ASAP.

Remove any tree branches that pose risk to breaking a window, for example. Getting a tree trimming before the summer storm season begins is a wise idea.

Invest in storm windows.

Bring all patio furniture, grills, etc. indoors before the storm hits.

Tightly secure outdoor items you cannot bring indoors.

Bring potted plants inside until the storm passes over.

If you have a garage, park your vehicle inside it before the storm hits.

If you must evacuate due to the storm, secure and board up windows.

We hope you find these tips helpful and wish you an enjoyable and safe summer!

SERVPRO® of Rockville-Olney – along with our sister franchises SERVPRO® of Silver Spring North, SERVPRO® of Laurel and Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E – is a full-service restoration company that specializes in the cleanup, restoration & reconstruction of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage. We also mitigate mold & mildew, and biohazards from your home or business.

Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313 and let us help make it "Like it never even happened."

Follow these tips to prevent a fire

6/3/2023 (Permalink)

Steaks on a grill Grilling is a major part of backyard gatherings in Summer. Follow these safety tips to avoid a fire.

There's nothing like warm, nice weather that yearns for outdoor fun such as barbecues and cookouts with family, friends and neighbors.

In Montgomery County, MD, we’re able to enjoy certain activities specifically in the summertime, whether it be outdoor cooking, camping or going to fireworks shows. These activities create wonderful summer memories between family and friends.

As you know, fire can spread quite easily in hot, dry air. It spreads more rapidly when wind is present. Our weather in Maryland is often hot, and windy, so it’s important to follow safety precautions. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & SERVPRO of Silver Spring North offer the following info to help make those gatherings safe & fun:

FIREWORKS

  • Instead of lighting your own fireworks, watch a public viewing. Leave the lighting up to the professionals.
  • If you do choose to use fireworks, do not attempt to re-light those that never lit on the first try. Instead, dump them in a bucket of water and properly dispose later.

OUTDOOR COOKING

  • Propane and charcoal grills are to be used outside only.
  • Make sure your grill is well away from you home. Keep it out from under roof edges and keep it away from tree branches, shrubbery, etc.
  • Remove all grease buildup on your grill to avoid a fire.
  • Never leave your grill unattended.
  • Be sure to keep kids and pets away from it.
  • Do not wear loose-fitting clothes while cooking outside.
  • Do not pour lighter fluid directly onto a lit grill.
  • Make sure the coals from a charcoal grill are completely cool before disposing. Cover the coals with water and mix to ensure they are extinguished.

CAMPFIRES

  • Make sure the park or town you're starting a campfire at allows it before lighting one.
  • Do not build a campfire near dry leaves or around any overhanging tree branches. Clear any vegetation in the area in which you dig your campfire pit in.
  • Do not dig your firepit near your tent.
  • Watch the campfire closely, never leaving it unattended.
  • Always keep lots of water near the campfire site.
  • Once finished, completely extinguish the fire.

We hope these tips help you to enjoy your summer and be safe at the same time! In the unfortunate event you have a fire or water damage situation, call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North at 301-340-1313.

We're open 24/7 and here to help!

 

We Give Our Customers a Different Level of Clean

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

a collage of pictures with a Certified Clean decal at center Give your customers the high level of clean they expect. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney can help!

Most businesses and corporations small and large in Maryland have returned to operation at full capacity. Still, it's in everyone's best interest for business owners and patrons to continue to take safety measures and common sense when among large gatherings.

And with summer travel at its peak, businesses such as restaurants, hotels and places with high travel populations, owners and property managers of those facilities may consider a professional, deep sanitization to further protect your customers and patrons.

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is a defensive cleaning program that gives your business a way forward by providing your employees & customers ongoing safety and assuredness. Our proactive viral pathogen cleaning program will help your business meet a higher standard of clean.

Call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney today at 301-340-1313 to schedule a free consultation. 

Water stains on your ceiling? Call us ASAP!

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

water stains on ceiling If you notice a water stain on your ceiling, give us a call!

Water stains aren’t something to ignore. Instead, they are indicators of an urgent matter!

If you see water stain(s) on your ceiling, you should request help promptly.

Water stains can mean:

  • Leaky pipe(s)
  • Old caulking
  • Problem with roof
  • Poor insulation

Whatever is above your ceiling is typically the source of the moisture issue. Is your property’s roof or a bathroom above the water stain? That may just be the source of the problem. However, if you cannot determine a water source above the stain, you may have a leaky pipe.

Water seepage from old caulking or piping in disrepair are other common sources of water stains. It’s very important that damaged or old pipes are replaced to avoid leaking or “sweating.”

After a snowstorm or even a rain downpour, water stains can show up on your ceiling. For instance, rain can leak through from the gutter. Therefore, you have a roofing issue upon your property.

However, if an ice dam forms on your roof and water is able to seep in, it’s a good indicator of a need to improve the insulation.

Sometimes, a professional may need to remove a portion of the ceiling, and possibly the wall, to completely restore and fix the affected area for good.

Remember, deal with the stain in a very timely manner! Applying a quick coat of paint over the stain can make a temporarily, cosmetic difference, but often time, the stain will bleed right through the new paint.

Instead, call a professional to ensure the source of the water is correctly identified and handled properly. Ignoring the issue can lead to expensive repairs! It’s much better to catch the problem sooner than having to have sections of your ceiling teared down and replaced.

Call us, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, to have water stains in your home or office checked out. We are the area’s water damage experts and are always “Faster to any size disaster.” Large or small, we will restore your water-damaged property with efficiency and detail.

Call us with any needs or questions at (301) 340-1313.   

What if there's Mold on my food?

5/22/2023 (Permalink)

Cheese and bread with mold spots Moldy food may contain toxic substance and can cause health problems. Best to throw it out!

Have you ever noticed a few small spots of mold on the slice of bread you were about to eat? If the spots are small and look easy to pinch off, it’s pretty tempting to try salvaging. But, you don’t want to get sick!

Have the small mold spots contaminated the whole piece, or will you be just fine removing them by hand?

First, it’s important to know that simply cutting or scrapping mold off your bread, strawberry, etc. won’t save you from ingesting mold. The mold has already rooted itself in your food, so what you are looking at are surface spores. Even if you no longer see it, the mold has already made its home in your food. So yes, your piece of bread is more contaminated than you think.

Although we’ve all probably pinched mold off a piece of bread at one time or another, consuming moldy food can sometimes be very harmful. Bacteria can grow along with the mold, and it’s easy for mold to contaminate porous foods like bread.

For example, black bread mold is a rarer, but very dangerous mold that grows on bread. It can cause serious infection. It’s best to toss out the moldy bread!

Mycotoxins, a toxic substance, can be produced by certain molds usually found in grain and nut crops. Mycotoxins can also contaminate apples, celery, grapes and other produce. Consumption of mycotoxins can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions.

Additionally, if you see mold on any of the following, throw it away:

  • Lunch meat
  • Bacon
  • Hot dogs
  • Cooked pasta
  • Cream or cottage cheese
  • Tomatoes
  • Citrus fruits
  • Peaches
  • Peanut better
  • Jelly (mycotoxins commonly found within the mold in jams and jellies)
  • And yes… bread!

A few food items you can cut the mold out from include:

  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Hard cheese
  • Hard salami
  • Dry-cured country hams

Best advice: When in doubt, throw it out! 

Working from home?

5/11/2023 (Permalink)

A home office with wood floor Arrange your workspace at home in a way you’ll be the most organized and least distracted.

Although a growing number of workers have returned to their offices now that the pandemic is nearly 100 percent behind us, there's still a large population of Americans still working from home. The consensus is that the workplaces and how America conducts business may never fully return to the way it was before the Covid-19 pandemic.

So if you have transitioned from working in an office to working in your home, you’ve had to make many adjustments! SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North offer these tips to help make the best of working from home:

  • Arrange your workspace in a way you’ll be the most organized and the least distracted
  • Inform your family members or roommates of your work schedule and create rules to diminish disruptions and distractions. Talking to family and friends is very tempting, so you may need to close your door or drown out chatter with classical music
  • Create a schedule that you follow each day, including clearly defined work hours
  • Learn something new! Watch webinars or attend a virtual training your company may offer
  • Focus on communication! You don’t get to see your boss and coworkers face-to-face for the time being, so call, text, and email them regularly
  • Take a break! Make sure you know your company’s break policy, and take advantage of it. Go for a walk to take in sunshine during your break before having to return back indoors to complete your assignments
  • Keep an agenda book or calendar. Write down deadlines and meeting dates, as these can be easy to forget when working from home
  • Turn off the notifications on your personal phone (such as Instagram and Twitter notifications) to minimize getting distracted from your work

We hope these tips help and wish you much success!

Our Promise: We're Here to Help 365 Days, Every Day!

5/11/2023 (Permalink)

car and home fire Let's be real: Emergencies don’t wait to happen on a day that’s convenient for you. A house fire or an office flood won’t wait!

Let's be real: Emergencies don’t wait to happen on a day that’s convenient for you. A house fire or an office flood won’t wait until your birthday is over or until Christmas Day comes to an end.

It's why we at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North have to stand ready for when tragedy strikes, whenever that may be. It doesn’t matter if it’s Easter morning or New Year’s Eve. Life happens, and both the good and the bad come along with it.

At SERVPRO, we want to make sure whatever nature might throw your way, that we are here to help with the cleanup & restoration of your property! Whether it’s water damage, fire damage, storm damage, or an issue with mold, we are ready to help, and “Faster to any size disaster” at that!

That’s why we are here for you 24/7, 365 days a year. Facing a disaster can be terrifying, and dealing with its effects is very stressful. We hope to diminish some of that stress.

We know the importance of reliability. We are a very trusted and widely known company in Montgomery County, as well as Prince George's County, and have been in business for 43+ years. As a family-owned business, we pride ourselves on fast response, quality service and excellent customer care!

If you ever face a disaster, day or night, we are here to help, 365 days a year! 301-340-1313.

Keeping ductwork clean can save money

5/5/2023 (Permalink)

clogged duct Keeping your duct system clean not only keeps a healthy home, but saves money!

Dust, pet dander, and other containments from everyday living are circulated through your ducts and can decrease the efficiency of your HVAC heating and cooling system, causing it to work much harder. Keeping the ductwork clean can extend the life span of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which saves money.

Duct Cleaning can:

  • Remediate Bacteria, Fungi and Mold
  • Reduce Potential for Mold Growth
  • Restore Peak Energy Efficiency
  • Eliminate Offensive Odors

Since the ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, keeping your ductwork clean should be a high priority. In most cases, the HVAC system has been operating for some time without much attention. Dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold and irritating dust throughout your building or home.

These contaminants from day to day living are sucked into your HVAC system and recirculated throughout your home over and over. This causes a buildup over time inside the ductwork. This buildup can cause problems for people with asthma and other respiratory health conditions, auto immune disorders, and environmental allergies. 

According to the EPA, "a growing body of scientific evidence has indicated that the air within homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. Other research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors.”

Cleaning your ducts can sweep away years of dust and dirt, helping to reduce potential for damage and health risks.

In some circumstances, such as after a fire, smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning becomes an essential part of the cleanup process. This includes certain odors as well. In these cases, a Duct Cleaning Professional can often restore the ductwork to pre-damage condition. It is also recommended that you have the ductwork cleaned after buying a home or after a renovation. Just like carpet cleaning, having your ductwork cleaned should be part of your home maintenance routine. 

Call us today to schedule your duct cleaning! 301-340-1313

Planning for those unexpected Spring & Summer storms

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

rainy, stormy view from car windshield Spring & Summer storms can occur anytime. Be prepared!

SERVPRO® of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North want you to be ready for those unexpected Spring & Summer storms.

A spring or summer storm happens quite often in Maryland. There are many possibilities of damage from such storms, whether from wind, heavy rain, or lightning. Wind causes constructional damage to your home, heavy rain can lead to flooding and if lightning strikes on your home or business, it is at risk of a fire.  

If you know a storm is coming, take these initiatives to ensure safety:

  • Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
  • Shutter windows and secure outside doors.
  • Unplug any electronic equipment.

During the storm, remain calm and be aware.

  • Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
  • Avoid contact with cords.
  • Stay away from windows and doors.

After the Storm, BE SAFE! It may not be storming anymore but the damage can still affect you.

  • Never drive through a flooded roadway.
  • Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.
  • Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately to 911.

If you are caught off-guard to a dangerous storm during the night, don’t stress, we have an Emergency Response Team 24/7 and will make your home look “Like it never even happened”. Our team is specially-trained to deal with the mess of a storm. Let us be the experts that you need in your time of crisis!

Be ready for Hurricane Season!

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Storm surge over house The hurricane season runs from June 1 thru Nov. 30. Best be prepared with our SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan, or ERP.

Hurricane Season starts June 1. Are you prepared for a big storm? Now is a good time to have a plan – a SERVPRO Ready Plan – in the event of an unexpected natural disaster!

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration this week predicts "above-normal" activity again, calling for warmer than normal sea surface temperatures in the subtropical Atlantic and Caribbean Sea. The Atlantic hurricane season runs through Nov. 30.

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan, or ERP, is a FREE tool for property managers, risk managers and owners, both residential and commercial. It allows the user to create an emergency ready profile of their facility containing critical information to help speed up response time after fire or water damage. Help is then just a few clicks away.

Contact SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North at 301-340-1313 today so we can help you prepare your free ERP assessment!

Dealing with severe Mold after 48 hours

4/26/2023 (Permalink)

Mold on floor after water damage Two days of water damage can turn into mold. Call the professionals for mitigation.

When it comes to residential water damage, there is a clear deadline which all technicians must follow. The 48-hour window is crucial for repairs. Up until this point, almost all flood affected materials can be dried and restored to their original condition.

After this point, repairs are still possible, but they are tough, and the outcome is not certain. Part of the reason for this is because two days is all that’s needed for flooding to turn into mold in Rockville homes. At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North, we are trained to handle these severe cases and can use a variety of strategies to neutralize mold spores and prevent them from spreading. Keep reading to find out what happens to household materials after the window has passed and mold is developing.

Carpeting
Heavily affected areas of carpet are heard to clean. Usually, it is more economical to remove them and find a replacement. We can help you to do this, as we have a wealth of industry contacts. Unless you would prefer to arrange your own replacement, our technicians are happy to source and install new carpeting. Replacement flooring is installed only after the subflooring is completely dry. It requires the use of high-powered fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers to draw water vapor out of materials. Concrete and cinder block surfaces respond very well to dehumidification and water extraction using motorized pumps.

Wallboard
Wallboard, which is not dry within 48 hours (after the initial incident), requires removal. However, it is rare for the whole wall to need disposal. The SERVPRO technicians measure 12 inches above the water line and take away all material beneath this boundary. It leaves a hole which is helpful for drying. Fans are either pointed up into the cavity or placed inside it to deal with wet conditions between the boards. New wallboard only gets installed once the restoration experts have tested the moisture levels and found them to be safe and suitable.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North specialize in fast, effective mold damage repairs. Our remediation strategies are designed to protect your home from further damage and mold breakouts. Call us 24/7 on (301) 340-1313 for a professional restoration service.

Is Black Mold Growing in Your Home or Office?

4/17/2023 (Permalink)

black mold on floor corner Visible mold is a sure sign there's more to it than meets the eye. We can help!

We’ve all heard of black mold, but what exactly is it? Take a look at our website to find out, then return to this blog post to discover how you can identify black mold in your own home or office.

https://www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/black-mold

One of the most obvious signs happens to be scent. Have you smelled something earthy or musty? Think of a late fall’s odor of rotting leaves or the smell of dirt on a rainy spring day.

Next, consider the environment in which you suspect the mold is inhabiting, and ask yourself the following questions:

  • Is the area damp?
  • Has the area previously been flooded?
  • Does it get little to no exposure to light?

Black mold feeds off water-saturated materials such as cotton, drywall, cardboard, and wood. It even thrives off of damp dust and lint.

If the scent of the mold leads you straight to where it is festering, examine the color but don’t get too close. In color, black mold is typically greenish-black and a bit slimy. However, it can also appear grayish and powdery.

Note other molds may appear similar in color, so it is impossible to determine which breed of mold is growing in your property unless it is examined under a microscope.

At the end of the day, this examination is expensive and unnecessary because whether it is black mold or not, mold must be removed for health and sanitary purposes.

If you detect mold, regardless of its color or texture, call the professionals to have it removed.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North are experienced and trusted companies that will get the job done promptly and carefully.

Call us at (301) 340-1313 today!

Clean dryer vents often to prevent a fire

4/17/2023 (Permalink)

fire in laundry room Empty or clean your dryer vent after each load to help prevent a fire disaster!

It can take minutes, but can prevent a fire that may cost a life or more.

Some 34% of home fires are caused by failure to clean the vent in a clothes dryer. A lint fire is a dangerous possibility. To avoid the hazard on lint buildup, occasionally pull out the vent and clean. Thoroughly dry the lint screen with a clean towel. You can also use a vacuum to clean the lint trap filter. SERVPRO® of Rockville-Olney can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup.

The National Fire Protection Agency gives us advice on how to keep your vents clean. Clean the lint filter before and after each load. It is vital to clean your dryer vents every so often to ensure your safety.

Here are some signs that your dryer vent may need to be cleaned:

  • Drying times are taking longer.
  • Your dryer is getting hot when you’re using it and your clothes are being damaged.
  • You can’t see any steam or head any noise outside your house at the wall vent when you run the dryer.

At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney, we want to make sure you are taking the right precautions to avoid a house fire. If you do experience a fire caused by your dyer or any other appliances in your home call us today! 301-340-1313.

Let SERVPRO Rockville take your facilities to the next level of Clean!

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

Cleaning crews clean windows and ceilings It's always important to keep commercial facilities such as businesses, hospitals & schools clean to protect everyone's health.

With the country getting back to nearly 100 percent normal and most businesses and workplaces operating in person as usual, we want to remind our clients that it's still important to have buildings and facilities thoroughly cleaned to keep everyone safe from germs and other health hazards.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, SERVPRO franchises throughout the country – including SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North and SERVPRO of Laurel & Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E – are here to help keep your customers and employees safe with our commercial cleaning services.

We use a proactive viral pathogen cleaning program backed by our more than 50 years of experience in cleanup and restoration. 

Our commercial clients include daycares, schools, government entities such as police & fire stations, hospitals, and condo & apartment buildings.

Give us a call today at 301-340-1313 and let our crews take your facilities to the next level of CLEAN!

Got MOLD? Leave it to your friends at SERVPRO Rockville-Olney!

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

Male in white biohaz suit at work SERVPRO recommends professional cleanup of mold infestation. Call us at 301-340-1313.

If you see visible mold on your property, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread this mold infestation throughout your building, office, store, or other property. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores that become airborne and can circulate inside the building. This can create or worsen health effects for your employees, customers and you.

What to Do:

  • Stay out of affected areas.
  • Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North for cleanup & mitigation.

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 Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North specialize in mold cleanup and remediation; in fact, it is a cornerstone of our businesses. Our crews are highly-trained restoration professionals who use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If you see signs of Mold, call us today at 301-340-1313.

Black Mold? Safer to call the professionals!

4/7/2023 (Permalink)

Man in black shirt faces Black mold Mold exposure can be hazardous to our health. Leave it to our certified technicians for safe cleanup & mitigation.

We’ve all heard of black mold, but what exactly is it? And if your business or company headquarters have sightly signs of mold, they may discourage your customers and visitors.

One of the most obvious signs happens to be scent. Have you smelled something earthy or musty? Think of a late fall’s odor of rotting leaves or the smell of dirt on a rainy spring day.

Next, consider the environment in which you suspect the mold is inhabiting, and ask yourself the following questions:

  • Is the area damp?
  • Has the area previously been flooded?
  • Does it get little to no exposure to light?

Black mold feeds off water-saturated materials such as cotton, drywall, cardboard and wood. It even thrives off of damp dust and lint.

If the scent of the mold leads you straight to where it is festering, examine the color but don’t get too close. In color, black mold is typically greenish-black and a bit slimy. However, it can also appear grayish and powdery.

Note other molds may appear similar in color, so it is impossible to determine which breed of mold is growing in your property unless it is examined under a microscope.

At the end of the day, this examination is expensive and unnecessary because whether it is black mold or not, mold must be removed for health and sanitary purposes.

If you detect mold, regardless of its color or texture, call the professionals to have it removed.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North are the area’s water & storm damage, and mold & mildew remediation experts. Large or small, we will restore your mold- and water-damaged property, residential or commercial, with efficiency and detail.

Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313.

It's BBQ Season: A Fun BBQ is a Safe BBQ!

4/6/2023 (Permalink)

bbq fire A safe bbq is a fun bbq!

Spring is well under way and with nice, warm weather, who doesn't itch for those outdoor gatherings and grilling!

It's Barbecue Season, and while we want to enjoy a good barbecue with family & friends on our deck or yard, following some basic safety rules can help avoid disasters that would spoil the fun.

Fire Chief Scott Goldstein of the Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service offers these tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

  • Always supervise a barbecue grill when in use.
  • Position the grill well away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
  • Keep children and pets far away from grills: declare a 3-foot "safe zone" around the grill.
  • With charcoal grills, only use charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills and do not add fluid after coals have been lit. NEVER use gasoline!
  • With gas grills, be sure that the hose connection is tight and check hoses carefully for leaks. Applying soapy water to the hoses will easily and safely reveal any leaks.
  • All propane cylinders manufactured after April 2002 must have overfill protection devices (OPD). OPDs shut off the flow off propane before capacity is reached. OPDS are easily identified by their triangle-shaped hand wheel.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and have the grill repaired by a professional, if necessary.
  • Remember to keep your grill clean! Periodically remove grease or fat buildup in trays below grill so it cannot be ignited by a hot grill.
  • Wear short, close fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can dangle onto grill and catch fire.
  • REMEMBER: Propane and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. If used indoors, or in any enclosed spaces such as tents, they pose both a fire hazard and the risk of exposing occupants to toxic gases and potential asphyxiation.

(Learn more about fire safety by visiting https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcfrs-info/tips/citizens/grill.html)

Grilling and BBQ fires are not to be taken lightly. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), gas and charcoal grills cause an annual average of 1,500 structure fires and 4,200 outdoor fires in or on residential properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $29.8 million. 

For more safety tips, or if you have fire & smoke damages to your property, call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North today at 301-340-1313 for professional remediation and restoration services. 

We are the fire & water cleanup and restoration experts, and can make your property damage "Like it never even happened."

Windy, Dry Weather Conditions Can Enhance Threat of Wildfires

4/6/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damaged property Warm weather & dry conditions can spark a brush fire that can affect property. Take precautions!
Spring brings lots of sunshine and beautiful flowering trees in full bloom all around us, but the warmer weather and oftentimes strong winds can create dry conditions that can spark wildfires.

If you live in the Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. region long enough, you've likely experienced countless days of strong winds and dry conditions. It's common to receive warnings from the National Weather Service urging area residents to be careful with any source of ignition and to dispose of smoking materials properly during the warmer months.

In general, it's always wise to properly discard all smoking materials, as any dry grasses and tree litter can catch fire and that ignite will have the potential to spread quickly.

The NWS offers these safety tips:

  • Take ashes outside, away from the house and combustible material.
  • Put ashes in a metal bucket/container.
  • Always use a metal container; never use a plastic or paper bag.
  • Completely immerse the materials in water.
  • Clear an area for the container — possibly down to dirt, ruling out the possibility that grass could catch fire if it were knocked over.
  • Allow the contents to soak for at least a week.

Fire damage can have extremely catastrophic effects on your property. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North are the area’s fire & water damage experts and are always “Faster to any size disaster.” Large or small, we will restore your fire- and water-damaged property, residential or commercial, with efficiency and detail.

Call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313. We’re here to help!

Spring is nice, but best to be prepared!

4/6/2023 (Permalink)

rainy, stormy view from car windshield Get your yard around the home ready for those unexpected Spring & Summer storms!
Ahhh! Spring… Balmy weather one day; frigid to near-freeze temperature overnight. To wear a sweater or not. To bring in the plants or not…

Spring weather can be unpredictable, as many of us here in the Washington, D.C. region have experienced a time or two. Remember the heavy April snowfall over a decade ago? And the wind gusts of 20-30+ mph every now and then, like the storm our DMV experienced just over the weekend at end of March 2023.

While we can’t predict when severe weather hits, we can always plan for those unexpected storms to minimize injury to ourselves and damages to our properties. A viable plan of action for storms, floods, tornadoes, even fires, can save lives and costly repairs in the aftermath of severe weather that can occur, even within the same day.

Mark Twain said it best: “In the spring I have counted one hundred and thirty-six kinds of weather inside of four and twenty hours.”

Preparing an emergency kit to keep on hand is a great start to advance planning for storms. Some items to include, as suggested by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are:

  • A battery-operated flashlight, a battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio, and extra batteries for both
  • An emergency evacuation or shelter plan, including a map of your home and routes to safety from each room
  • A list of important personal information, including:
    • telephone numbers of neighbors, family and friends
    • insurance and property information
    • telephone numbers of utility companies
    • medical information
  • A 3–5 day supply of bottled water and nonperishable food
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • A first-aid kit, which may include:
    • non-latex gloves
    • assortment of adhesive bandages
    • antibiotic ointment
    • sterile gauze pads in assorted sizes
    • absorbent compress dressings
    • tweezers
    • scissors
    • adhesive cloth tape
    • aspirin packets

Being prepared & proactive for storms and severe weather can save lives and minimize costly repairs to damaged property. Oftentimes we have little if any time to prepare for an approaching storm. For families with young children, a mock emergency drill may be a fun yet helpful activity. Show them where to go; where emergency supplies are stored; and make sure everyone in the family knows where & how to turn off the water, gas and electricity in your home.

Preparedness and swift response may save a life or two!

When all’s settled and you find your damaged properties needing cleanup & restoration, call us – SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and Silver Spring North – 24/7 at 301-340-1313.

We are the area’s water & storm damage experts and are always “Faster to any size disaster.” Large or small, we will restore your water-damaged property, residential or commercial, with efficiency and detail. 

Quick water removal can prevent further damage

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

green drying fan on wet floor Quick removal of water is crucial and can prevent further damages to your home or business.

SERVPRO is well known to be 'Faster to any size disaster,' and this quality provides many benefits for home and business owners of waterlogged properties. When a pipe has burst apart, or a tub overflowed, your home or business needs to have that excess water removed as quickly as possible.


Homes in Rockville, Olney, Silver Spring North and throughout Montgomery County, MD that have excess water from disasters such as pipe failures and forgotten tubs dry out best when SERVPRO is called. Pumping out any water that is visible upon our arrival helps us gain a better visual so we can more easily assess the extent of the overall damage.

Larger amounts of porous materials require more aggressive drying methods than materials that are less porous. 

Removing water starts the process, but then we need to move toward removing the moisture that has escaped into the air through evaporation. This moisture can find its way into every part of your home and create problems later unless it is captured and removed. Dehumidifiers, heaters, air movers, and even open windows can work wonders when used together. Moisture meters provide us with a beginning reading of areas in your home or business, which are compared to later readings, showing us our progress in drying out your property.

When dry, remaining problems can still exist, such as unusual odors. This is because odors are caused by particles that although tiny, produce smells when they have been disturbed. We can rectify this problem with odor control methods. Other problems that can remain behind include over-stretched carpeting, and SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North can remedy that, too.

Because floors are always saturated in a situation where standing water exists, we take great care in ensuring that these surfaces are completely dry. This prevents warping of wooden floors and sub-flooring. Otherwise, walking in your home may soon become hazardous for your family and guests.

In situations that have left your home partially submerged, call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North 24/7 at 301-340-1313.

We can begin water removal efforts so that your home is once again as it should be - perfectly dry. Accidents can occur at all hours of the day and night, and because of this, we are always here to help!

Keeping Your Pets Safe During Storms

10/18/2022 (Permalink)

Dog under blanket with stormy window Follow these tips to help keep your pets safe during storms

Like us, pets can face a lot of anxiety during a storm.

If you know a storm is approaching, or see the first sign of one, immediately bring your pet(s) indoors. Animals can become disoriented and panicky when witnessing intense conditions, and it’s not uncommon for them to wander away under these circumstances.

Also, if a veterinarian has prescribed your pet(s) any anxiety medication, administer the medication to them as soon as possible.

It’s also important your pets wear ID tags, or better yet, are microchipped. If they do get lost, they will be much easier to identify and more quickly returned to you.

It’s very common for your pet(s) to become frightened when they hear thunder or feel the house shake due to high winds. In case of emergency, in an instance where you have to pick them up and flee your home, be sure to remember their favorite hiding spaces. This way, you won’t waste time wandering around your home in search of them.

If you are leaving your home, it’s best to bring your pet(s) with you. Create a list of surrounding lodging choices that are pet-friendly. See if you could drop off your furry friend(s) at a friend or relative’s home, or call to see if any boarding kennels have space.

If you are staying home, keep your pets away from windows as much as possible. In a state of panic, your pets could either try jumping out (however, your windows should definitely be shut), or something may cause your window to shatter, sending pieces of broken glass everywhere.

In the event heavy rains begin to come inside your home, and it begins to flood, move yourself and your pet(s) to the highest location inside your home; they can take shelter in cabinets or shelving.

A few tips include moving your pet inside a room with no carpeting, in case of bathroom emergency, and having a fresh supply of water readily available, as you do not want your pet to dehydrate. Taking them to a veterinarian would be nearly impossible in the case of a serious weather crisis.

Additionally, make sure there are no poisonous substances or baits your pet can get ahold of. When taking shelter, your pet(s) might either be in an unfamiliar room that you are not used to them being in, or they might get bored and begin getting into boxes, bins, or shelves. Again, if they consume something that will cause them to fall ill, it would be nearly impossible for you to bring them to the veterinarian.

Lastly, consider creating a first-aid kit for your pet(s). ASPCA has created a list of items you should include in your own kit. Check out their link:

https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/how-make-pet-first-aid-kit

Ways to Conserve Water in Commercial Buildings

10/18/2022 (Permalink)

white water faucets in restroom Install energy-saving faucets and appliances to save water (and money!)

Unlike your home, your commercial building is comprised of various employees and clients/customers. You and your family might make conscious efforts to conserve water at home, but oftentimes, those in your building may not.

How often do you use your bathroom sink and walk out with the water still running? Probably never! Now consider this. How many times have you visited an empty public restroom with a running faucet? Probably a few times a year!

One solution would be to install touch-free faucets. This and other energy-saving fixtures and appliances nowadays can save businesses a lot of money, even if the initial cost isn’t very low.

Additionally, you can make an easy switch of replacing your faucet aerators with newer ones of lower power. After companies make this switch, they typically notice the new aerators only use a fifth of the water the older ones did.

Another money-saving bathroom investment is purchasing new flush valves. Today, there are some great options to choose from. You can buy water-saving flush valves that use 20 percent less water than newer toilets and 70 percent less water than pre-1992 toilets.

If you operate a restaurant or any other facility that calls for a dishwasher, you may want to upgrade to a water-saving dishwasher. Although they cost about the same as normal dishwashers, these washers use 40 percent less water, not to mention less energy too.

A few more tips for saving water in your commercial building include planting shrubs, bushes, flowers, etc. that require less water instead of growing plants that demand water. Additionally, you should make sure your irrigation device is positioned practically. The sidewalk shouldn’t be drenched after a watering session. Also, check for leaks or drips. You'll need them repaired to save water (and money).

If you’ve noticed rainfall and your irrigation schedule collide, you may want to invest in a rain or soil moisture sensor. You can save a lot on your water bill from what nature has to offer. Plus, if it has rained or the soil is damp enough, the plants could potential drown.

Lastly, meter your irrigation separately, as unless you do so, your water company will send all the water coming from the property to a wastewater treatment plant. If you do choose to meter, your sewer bill will plummet.

We at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North encourage you to incorporate a few of these tips into your commercial business and see how much water (and money) you can save!

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney named 2021 Small Business of the Year

9/2/2022 (Permalink)

logo of Rockville Chamber's Rockstar Awards SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney was recognized as the Rockville chamber's 2021 Small Business of the Year!

We are humbled and honored to have been named the 2021 Small Business of the Year by the newly-named Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce. The recognition reinforces our continued commitment to provide swift, effective & compassionate service to our customers, who usually are under stress when they need us. We are equally committed to giving back to the community in which we live & work. THANK YOU to our clients and to the Rockville chamber. OneTeamWins! BeTheBest!

The Small Business of the Year Award recognizes a company that has been in business for at least five years with revenue under $5M. Specific criteria include: flexibility, innovation and has a proven unique business and marketing strategy that has benefited the Rockville community. Winners were recognized at the Greater Rockville Chamber of Commerce annual Rockstar Awards Gala that draws some 200-300 attendees each year.

See other winners here: https://business.rockvillechamber.org/events/details/rcc-rockstar-award-ceremony-2021-14630?calendarMonth=2021-11-01

At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney, as well as our other franchises SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, SERVPRO of Laurel & SERVPRO of Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E, our team members strive day in, day out to provide swift & excellent service and great customer care. Such is reflected in our longstanding 4th ranking out of the 2,000+ SERVPRO franchises across the nation and N. America for garnering the most Google customer reviews. Great thanks to our customers & friends for their trust in us!

Campfires can bring family, friends together; but be safe!

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

campfire This fall season, create memories by having a campfire with family and friends! Be sure to follow safety precautions so that everyone has a good time!

Kids are back in school and Autumn is just a few weeks away after Labor Day weekend. It'll be the perfect time to have a campfire with family or friends. While enjoying spending time in the outdoors with your crew, it’s important to remember campfire safety, especially as dry foliage can be a serious fire hazard.

When leaves catch on fire, irritants are released into the air, which can cause respiratory problems. Additionally, campfires that aren’t properly prepared or maintained can cause huge issues such as burns or out-of-control fires, possibly developing into a forest fires.

Follow these important steps to keep everyone safe before and after the campfire, so that everyone can have a great time:

  1. Selecting your campfire spot: Look for signs and follow rules! If the area has rules prohibiting campfires, find another area, and do not build your campfire in an area with dry and/or hazardous conditions. Watch out for tree branches, and be sure to make your fire at least 15 feet from any shrubs, bushes, trees and tents. Inspect the area, ensuring no flammable items are nearby. Do not build a fire if winds are strong.
  2. Building your pit: If there’s no pit, you can dig your own. This website has great tips, along with pictures, on how to do so: https://smokeybear.com/en/prevention-how-tos/campfire-safety/how-to-prepare-your-campfire-pit
  3. Building your campfire: For everyone’s safety, it’s always important to gather a bucket of water along with a shovel before starting up the fire. When gathering wood, do not cut a tree or an entire branch. Instead, gather small twigs, and sticks or pieces of wood you find on the ground (or which you purchase). Large pieces of wood should always be stacked upwind, away from the fire. Make sure you don’t collect sticks from an animal’s dwelling space. For specific details on how to position and start your campfire, visit https://smokeybear.com/en/prevention-how-tos/campfire-safety/how-to-build-your-campfire. If you’re using matches to start the fire, make sure it’s cold before discarding (into your trash bag, of course). Once you start a fire, it must be monitored at all times. Adult supervision is required at all times. Children and pets must be closely and carefully watched.
  4. Maintaining a fire: Once you are pleased with your campfire, add larger pieces of wood to keep it going steadily, but keep your fire to a manageable size. Do not let it get out of hand. Also, do not burn plastics, cans, or glass, as doing so can result in explosions, shattering, or the release of dangerous fumes.
  5. Extinguishing your fire: If possible, allow firewood to burn to ash. Then, pour water on the fire. All embers must be completely soaked and dead (no red embers). Until the hissing sound stops, keep pouring water on the area. Remember, if it’s too hot to touch, it’s not appropriate to leave. Add more water, dirt, and/or sand until all material is cool.

We hope these campfire tips were helpful and will keep you and your family & friends safe! Enjoy Autumn 2022, from your friends at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North.

National Preparedness Month: Be 'Prepared, Not Scared!'

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

Prepared logo Be 'Prepared. Not Scared!'

September is National Preparedness Month. This year, ready.gov calls us to be “Prepared, Not Scared.”

Did you know you can:

  • Download applications on your phone for weather alerts and updates
  • Create a financial plan with consideration of a potential storm or other act of nature
  • Check to see your insurance’s coverage for damages caused by an act of nature
  • Learn more about how to protect your assets, potentially by investing in flood insurance
  • Take a course or independently research about how to ensure safety during a storm or other event

The list could go on as there are endless precautions one can take, in addition to the rapid increase of technology. With that being said, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North make it easy for clients to be “Prepared, Not Scared,” as we stay up-to-date with the latest procedures and techniques to ensure your home or office is ready to face the potential natural force in its path.  

Waiting for a storm to pass through before asking for help can have disastrous effects on your property and can leave you and your family overwhelmed.

It's important to know that creating a plan and taking preventative measures will impact your safety and your wallet for the better, but sometimes, these emergencies cannot be foreseen. 

Luckily, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North offers 24-hour Emergency Service provided by highly-trained damage specialists who are equipped with stellar knowledge and skill. You can rest assure knowing SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney & Silver Spring North will demonstrate their mastery over acts of nature. You can remain confident as we restore any damages on your property. See our website below for more details.

www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/storm-flooding-restoration

Please call (301) 340-1313 if you want to plan for an emergency or if you have damage from an emergency that needs to be fixed.  

SERVPRO Rockville-Olney Inaugural School Backpack & Supply Drive

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

A cardboard box with School Supply flyers Join us in collecting school backpacks & supplies to be donated to area students in need. Thank you!

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney kicks off our inaugural Back-to-School Backpack & School Supply Drive this week. We have placed a bin right outside our main office at 850 E. Gude Drive, Suite H, Rockville if you would like to bring a backpack and/or notebooks, looseleaf paper and/or pens & pencils to join in our efforts.

The bin is out during weekdays from 8-5, and the collection ends Monday, Aug. 23, 2021. We will match & donate all collected items to area schools that need them for students. Thank you!!

Look for this box at our front door to drop off your donations. Also, if you know of a school in need please contact our marketing rep at trinh@SERVPRO5186.com and we will certainly try to accommodate. 

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney wins Contractor Connection's TOP Award!

6/10/2021 (Permalink)

Three people against green backdrop From left, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney co-owners Michelle and Jorge Gutierrez and Office Manager Megan Sweeney.

Superb service and customer care are what we strive for here at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney, Silver Spring North and our Prince George's County franchises, SERVPRO of Laurel & Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E.

We are thrilled and humbled to have won the Crawford Contractor Connection Performance Excellence Award for our district, the highest honor within the industry network, plus The Golden Hammer Award for Top Performers across the country. The awards are presented each year to performance leaders based on overall excellence measured by estimate upload TIP, customer service scores, professionalism in communication, cooperation and overall POMS scores.

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney is among the 6,000+ contractors in the network, and represents the Tri-State District that includes Maryland, D.C., Delaware & Pennsylvania. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney is recognized as a top performer in the region, having consistently scored high marks for:

*Quality of Service & Repairs

*Professionalism & Customer Service

*Timeliness of Response & Completion of Work

*Work Ethic 

Click to watch the award announcement & recognition: https://fb.watch/61OwEyXJlw/ 

Contractor Connection, an industry leader in contractor managed repair and home improvement services, provides insurance carriers and consumers a national network of residential and commercial contractors that are vetted and managed for performance, quality, timeliness and customer satisfaction.

We are open 24/7 and here to help with any water, fire and mold damage cleanup, restoration & reconstruction, as well as HVAC/duct cleaning and biohazards mitigation, among other services. Call us at 301-340-1313 to we can make your property "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney responds to historic freeze in southern states

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Green truck and air dryers Our storm team & equipment stand ready to tackle jobs in Texas.

Spring is in full swing and while most of the U.S. population are enjoying the nice weather and some hope that the pandemic will be behind us by year’s end, the struggle to dry out and rebuild their homes and businesses continues for thousands of Texans in the aftermath of the February freeze.

A storm team of 6 from our SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney spent three weeks in the Dallas, Texas area in February helping to restore more than 30 residential and commercial properties. They have returned to Maryland with hundreds of pieces of equipment in four large trucks. But that’s just our story, one franchise.

Multiply that by 78 total SERVPRO crews from 38 U.S. states that mobilized to the affected states: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri and Kansas. As of end of March, 26 SERVPRO franchises are still in Texas helping to restore damaged properties as part of our companywide Storm Response. Still much destruction and devastation!

Brian Petraitis, Storm Response Manager, Commercial Large Loss Division of SERVPRO® Industries, LLC, says the Texas storm response has been the largest event in the company’s history.

“To put this in perspective, an average year for storm we can see our teams invoice around 5,000 jobs in a full year. This is seen during years of heavy storm activity such as hurricanes. Our Storm teams will invoice over 5,000 jobs that were produced in only 1.5 months,” he says, noting that Hurricane Harvey provided 17,851 job leads and $28.3 million in revenue.  

The Texas freeze event, Petraitis says, has provided more than 40,000 job leads and an estimated revenue exceeding $38,000,000.

While it’s business for SERVPRO franchises, it’s one of the reasons our storm and emergency response teams are regularly trained and certified to be ready for such disasters, because time is of the essence when disasters strike, and it’s especially so for the people affected as well as other responders such as insurance companies. Quick restoration means home & business owners can reclaim their properties and start to pick up the pieces sooner; for insurance adjusters, it means less claim payout since longer restoration time can mean insurance companies have to put their insureds into temporary housing and such. It’s a win for all involved!

But storm response also means that our crews perform their jobs with the care and compassion our customers need, especially at times of distress and uncertainty. The nature of our business as fire & water cleanup and restoration companies is such that we may be imposing on personal properties and belongings that are of great monetary & sentimental value to our customers. 

Speaking for SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and of Laurel & Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E, General Manager Jorge Gutierrez says it was a highly rewarding experience to have been able to help people in their time of need.

“Demand was so high for restoration services, that some customers waited weeks before being able to get someone out,” he says. “And through it, the people of Texas could not have been more understanding, grateful and more than all welcoming to us.”

The southern states suffered a massive freeze the second week of February. SERVPRO headquarters, based in Gallatin, Tennessee, initially received 26,000+ job leads from six states all pleading for help with drying out and restoring their homes and businesses. The job leads grew to 40,000+ and growing, as over time water emergencies can lead to further problems including mold and biohazards. As our Rockville-Olney franchise General Manager Gutierrez says, our teams tried to help the people of Dallas as much as we can, “but there are only so much manpower and resources.”

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney is a full-service restoration company that specializes in the cleanup, restoration & reconstruction of residential and commercial properties after a fire, smoke or water damage. We also mitigate mold and mildew, and biohazards from your home or business, as well as thorough cleaning with CDC-certified products. Our sister franchise also serves Silver Spring North; and our SERVPRO of Laurel & SERVPRO of Greenbelt NE/Beltsville E serve Prince George’s County. 

For a free consultation, call us 24/7 at 301-340-1313 or 301-323-8862. We are always here to help!

Turkey Tips

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

As Thanksgiving approaches (only one week away), we at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North want to give you a few very important tips on how to keep your home safe during the holidays.

Believe it or not, far too many home catch on fire during the fall season! Imagine preparing for the holidays just to have flames devour your property over something as small as a turkey. The impact around this time of year (as winter holidays quickly approach following Thanksgiving) is astronomical and quite stressful to say the least.

Yet time and time again, we are called to homes in the Silver Spring North, Rockville and Olney communities around Thanksgiving to cleanup and restore fire damage… and all because of a turkey.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, compared to any other day of the year, the number of house fires reportedly doubles on Thanksgiving Day.

We don’t want our neighbors of Silver Spring North and Rockville-Olney to have to experience such a catastrophe, especially during the busiest time of your year. We want to explain to you how a turkey can cause such a huge mess and then, provide you with some tips, so you are ready to enjoy the holidays!

So, how does the bird cause a fire? Well, these fires usually originate from a deep fryer. The oil used typically spills over the sides of fryer in these instances, and falls into flames beneath. Even vapors can react with the heat, causing a fire.

If your turkey has not been completely dried and thawed, the excess water will cause the oil to bubble and spill down.

Here in the Maryland/DC area, temperatures around the holidays drop. It’s typically quite cold outside. Rain or snow can also factor into the catastrophe. It can cause the oil to splatter.

Due to chilly weather, you might be tempted to shield yourself from the cold weather and fry your turkey in the garage or under your deck. Maybe you have a nice, screened-in deck you’d like to cook inside. Don’t! If your turkey catches on fire, the flames will extend to the ceiling or roof, then spread, engulfing the room and beyond.

Of course we understand people enjoy cooking their special dinner in a propane deep-fryer. So, we are including a few tips to follow in avoiding a fire!

  • Make sure your fryer is equipped with a gas valve controller
  • While in use, keep your fryer away from children, pets, trees, shrubs, bushes, vehicles, etc. alike
  • Your turkey must be completely thawed and dry before placing it in the fryer
  • Make sure the fryer in placed on a flat surface
  • Do not leave your fryer unattended
  • Notice the oil is beginning to smoke? Turn the propane tank off immediately!
  • Have a fire extinguisher handy

Be sure to check out our next blog including cautions and tips when cooking a turkey in the oven!

Let's Keep Our Schools Mold-Free!

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Desks in a classroom To keep our students safe, we must ensure their campus is mold-free!

Schools that have experienced water damage from instances such as plumbing leaks, water overflows from toilets, for example, or poor drainage of rainwater, are at risk of mold growth, which can take place within the first 48 hours of the accident.

If you can see its visible growth or can smell it (usually similar to that of something rotting), it’s an obvious indicator. After water damage, you can expect mold and in a school especially, it’s imperative to call professionals to come take a look as students’ and faculties’ health alike are at risk.

Yet there are other instances where mold isn’t caused immediately by a plumping issue, for example. Mold can grow behind paint, walls, under tiles, etc. and can grow there for years. Mold can be growing behind paint and begin appearing over it, but simply scrubbing the mold off the paint won’t solve the problem as only part of the problem was removed, and it will just grow back.

In these cases, remediation is necessary. Give us of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney or SERVPRO of Silver Spring North a call today at (301) 340-1313! We serve public and private schools throughout the county. Mold can pose serious health risks including fatigue, nausea, headaches, and respiratory irritation to name a few. Our crew is well-trained and seasoned in mold remediation and will have your property mold-free and safe in no time! Have us come inspect your school, commercial building, or home today! We’ll team up with you to keep those you care about safe!

Snow Melt on Your Rockville-Olney-Silver Spring North Property

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

Snow-covered houses Keep these tips in mind as winter is quickly approaching!

As the temperatures are beginning to rapidly drop here in Montgomery County, Maryland, it’s safe to assume we can expect snowfall in a month or two. While a snow fall can be fascinating to watch and supports a wide variety of winter activities, such as sledding and skiing, it can also cause many home problems.

A buildup of snow can create massive drifts which gather and lean against the exterior walls of your property. As the temperatures begin to warm, the sun melts the snow, which can result in home flooding.

Below are a few consequences of snow melt/flooding:

  • Water damage
  • Warped/rotted wood and floorboards
  • Mold
  • Electrical damage

To avoid the potential problems snow can bring upon your property, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Shovel all snow away from the foundation of your home/office. Make sure all snow is away from ground level windows and doors to avoid seeping, etc.
  • Clear all drainage areas around your home/office
  • Make sure any garden beds are not creating dams the retain water (add extra soil if this is an issue)
  • Inspect your roof and eaves for ice and snow buildup. This is very important as melted snow can get under your shingles, causing damage inside your home. It can also result in giant icicles that can fall and break car windows, fall on people causing injury, etc.
  • Have your roof inspected before winter! Ice and snow weight on a roof can cause a roof to collapse. An over-stressed roof can begin to crack, then leak, then sag (or collapse). This weight can also pry open gutters.
  • Insulate and ventilate your attic

We at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North wish you a safe winter! We want you to enjoy the snow, not to become a victim of it!

Halloween Safety Tips

10/27/2019 (Permalink)

A cup with candy corn Make sure to inspect your child's candy before they consume it!

It’s that time of year again to stock up on candy, as trick-or-treaters will be arriving in the masses at your door any day now! Whether you’ll be passing out the candy or accompanying your own trick-or-treater, follow the tips below to ensure everyone has a safe and happy experience.

  • Always accompany children! Do not let them go alone. This is the most important step to follow to ensure a safe Halloween.
  • Carry a cell phone and flashlight with you at all times. Have your child carry a flashlight to increase visibility too.
  • Walk on the sidewalk and in residential neighborhoods whenever possible. Walking on streets or up long driveways can be dangerous. A great Halloween tip is if you live in the country or in an area where homes are quite spread out, drive and park in a neighborhood with homes in close proximity, i.e., townhomes.
  • Make sure the costume fits well! If costumes are too large, they become a fire hazard (people commonly place burning candles inside pumpkins). Furthermore, tree branches, fallen sticks, debris, etc. is less visible at night, and long costumes could get caught or tangled in the mix.
  • It’s also highly recommended your costume and trick-or-treat bag is reflective in the dark. Adding reflective tape to both is an easy and inexpensive way of doing so.
  • Avoid masks and long and sharp accessories. Masks can limit eyesight, and sharp and long objects that play apart in your costume can cause injury. Both may play a part in your costume, but they can cause risks that aren’t worth risking.
  • Speaking of fire hazards, avoid placing a burning candle inside your pumpkin. Instead, opt for a flashlight or glow stick. If you must use a candle, consider a tea light.
  • If you will pass out candy, make sure your home, walkways, etc. are well-lit to ensure no one gets injured due to lack of vision on your property… that could end poorly.
  • Make sure pets are inside their kennels, locked in the basement, etc.; anything to ensure they cannot run outside or “greet” trick-or-treaters. Pets either become excited, protective, or terrified, which can lead to shocking or harming both your pet and whoever is at your door.
  • Do not take your child to a home with no light on. That almost always means they do not want trick-or-treaters at their door and that they are not passing out candy.
  • Additionally, candy should be passed out at the door or sometimes, in a bowl sitting outside the door. Do not step into homes or vehicles to receive candy. That’s could be very dangerous.
  • After your children collect their candy, inspect each piece, ensuring no wrappers have been opened or tampered with. Candy without a wrapper, such as candy corn or gumballs, should be discarded immediately.
  • Feed your children a large meal before trick-or-treating so that they do not come home very hungering and make a meal out of their candy. Instead, ration candy for the days and weeks to come.

Local Pumpkin Patches and More!

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Pumpkins It's a common tradition for families and friends alike to pick pumpkins together every fall!

Pumpkins symbolize prosperity, growth, and well-being. They’re also a symbol of fall. Whether you need a few pumpkins to decorate your porch with, one to make a pie with, or to carve into a jack-o’-lantern, we’re here to provide you with information on where to find pumpkins locally.

If you’re looking for a pumpkin patch, look no further than Sharp’s At Waterford Farm (4003 Jennings Chapel Rd, Brookeville, MD 20833) or Larriland Farm (2415 Woodbine Rd, Woodbine, MD 21797). These pumpkin patches will provide you with the fall, farm experience in full. Sharp’s offers free hayrides to pick your own pumpkins. They also offer educational tours. Larriland also offers hayrides for a small fee, as well as a straw maze, a boo barn, and seasonal goodies from local vendors. Both farms also have large markets with an abundance of produce. Pumpkins which have already been picked can also be purchased inside the market.

If you’re looking to make a quicker purchase, consider stopping by Johnson’s Florist and Garden Centers (5011 Olney Laytonsville Rd, Olney, MD 20832) or by St. John’s Episcopal Church (3427 Olney Laytonsville Rd, Olney, MD 20832). Johnson’s always offers a wide selection of pumpkins, ranging in colors, sizes, and varieties. St. John’s does too. The yearly patch in front of their church serves as a fundraiser for their outreach programs. Interestingly enough, the pumpkins sold on their lot are grown on a Navajo reservation in New Mexico, which is another outreach. By purchasing a pumpkin from St. John’s, you’re giving back twice!

Additionally, you should check out your local farmers market. Even if they do not have an entire field of pumpkins, local farmers oftentimes plant pumpkin seeds to harvest a seasonal crop and bring whatever pumpkins their land has yielded to the market, along with their apples, beets, and other fall produce. Olney and Rockville have their own farmers markets. There happen to be an abundance of local markets, so search your town’s market up today!

We at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North hope you find the perfect pumpkin and all that it symbolizes!

Fire Prevention Week!

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week, brought to us by the National Fire Protection Association, is observed Sunday, October 6 through Saturday, October 12 of 2019.

The NFPA has sponsored this national and public observance week since 1922. With a goal of increasing awareness and education people young and old about fire safety, NFPA hopes causalities caused by fire will drastically decrease. 

This year, the theme is “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!”, and it aims to inform about the importance of escape planning and practicing it at least twice a year. The NFPA wants to encourage people to take small, but very important steps to ensure they and others will stay safe from fire.

It may be surprising to hear, but the average time it takes for a fire to consume an entire home is five minutes. Often times, there will only be one or two minutes for your escape. If you don’t have an escape plan, much disarray and chaos will result. A lack of an escape plan also puts you, your family, and even pets in a vulnerable position.

A video on the NFPA website highlights a few steps you can easily take to create your home fire escape plan. The steps are listed below and can also be found on the video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khyHziYGFZg&feature=youtu.be).

  1. Draw a map of your home
  2. Mark two exits from each room, typically a door and a window. Mark a path from each exit to the outside.
  3. Include the location of all smoke alarms in your home
  4. Choose a meeting place outside of your home where everyone will meet up once they have exited
  5. Add 911 or any other emergency number to your plan
  6. Call 911 once you’re outside. Use a neighbor’s phone or a cellphone if you have one on you

Check out NFPA’s website where you can gain valuable and even life-saving information. The website will equip you with free apps, videos, printables, and much more! There’s something for everyone of any age to check out on their page. https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Staying-safe/Preparedness/Fire-Prevention-Week/Resources

We at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North want you to stay safe! We know the damage a fire can do and find it very important that you create your own, home fire escape plan. We encourage you to take charge in preventing fires!

What's the Difference: black water vs. clean water vs. gray water

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

If you’re home floods, you’ll probably wonder how safe the water is to come in contact with.

Should you retrieve possessions from the puddles left behind? If you forgot to wear gloves and boots, will soap and water be enough to rid the germs from your hands?

Those are excellent questions.

First, you must identify the water source.

Clean water will not cause an immediate threat. It contains no contaminants and originates from toilet holding tanks, snow melt, rain, appliances such as a broken refrigerator, air conditioning units, etc.

Gray water contains chemical or biological contaminates, and therefore, may pose some health risk. It originates from washing machines, showers, sinks, aquariums, etc.

Black water causes an immediate threat due to the expected contaminants in it, including but not limited to, viruses, bacteria, and protozoan. This water originates from toilets and floodwaters. Often times, after a flood, water collect soils, sewage, etc. which contain harmful contaminants, which explains why it’s marked as black water. 

However, please note that as these waters sit, they can advance to a more serious level. For instance, after sitting for two days, clean water can turn into gray water. This is why water removal should be handled immediately.

Contact with contaminated water can cause vomiting, nausea, parasitic illness, and fever.

If you’re not sure of the source, contact a professional.                           

If you’re dealing with gray or black water, it’s very important to get help as soon as possible. Keep in mind that if it’s clean water, and it’s been sitting for over 48 hours, it should be treated as a gray water problem.

At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, we are water damage and biohazard experts. We will efficiently restore any water damage and carefully treat and disinfect your home, so you feel safe in it again.

Take a look at our website for more details: https://www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/sewage-cleanup

Does your Rockville, Silver Spring North, Olney, Sandy Spring, or Laytonsville home or office need restoration or cleanup?

Give us a call today at (301) 340-1313, and we will give you peace of mind!

What's Leaf Mold? Common Fall Allergen in Maryland

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Now that summer has come to a close, we are in the first few days of fall. The temperatures were quite high (and are still), and we’ve experienced a normal amount of rain for a Maryland summer (9.19 inches in Baltimore, according to https://www.weather.gov/media/lwx/climate/bwiprecip.pdf). 

As leaves are beginning to change color, we realize they’ll soon be falling from their trees. The hot, humid weather of summer enables mold growth on dying grass patches, and as soon as the leaves fall, the mold on the ground begins to quickly spread over them.

Do you have a mold allergy? If so, you may be wondering if leaf mold is a threat at all.

Indeed, leaf mold can certainly cause symptoms including itchy, watery eyes, nasal congestions, and runny noses.

Not only does the leaf mold lay under the foliage, but it also disperses through the air when leaves are raked or blown about by wind or leaf blower. When spores are stirred up, they’re basically being thrown up in the air to linger around.  

However, leaf mold isn’t the fall season’s only allergen. Grasses and ragweed are also common sources of your sneezes.

If you suffer from mold allergy, you can look forward to colder temperatures within the next couple months. Once frost begins showing up on the ground, the mold begins to die off, and you can expect your symptoms to recede. 

Feel free to check out our website. We have an entire tab dedicated to mold for your knowledge. https://www.SERVPROrockvillesilverspringnorth.com/mold-remediation

The Latest Tropical Storms: Karen and Lorenzo

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Just yesterday, tropical storm Karen was headed north. It had drenched Puerto Rico and left 29,000 people without power. Now Karen is moving towards Bermuda. However, it’s expected to travel in a loop-de-loop maneuver, swinging west towards Florida, meaning the island won’t be disturbed.

When meteorologists first noticed that Karen was circling back over its route, it was noted the Bahamas could be further impacted. The country was already devastated by Hurricane Dorian earlier this month.

Yet meteorologists have now discovered Karen is weakening and is “barely a tropical storm” that will not affect the Bahamas in any way. They expect Karen will continue to weaken over the next four days due to the high wind shear and dry air of the climate on her approaching path.

Additionally, Florida residents had been warned to keep a close eye on this storm as Karen is expected to make its way over to Florida over this weekend. However, Karen is presumably no danger to the state either.

Yet as soon as Karen became one less problem, Hurricane Lorenzo began strengthening rapidly and became a concern on the radar. Lorenzo morphed into a Category 3 storm this morning and by this afternoon, Category 4.

However, Lorenzo has been projected to head north-northeast. It is expected to weaken within the next few days. It’s also projected to stay in the water and never reach land. The only presumed effects of both tropical storms on land is some rainfall in northeastern Mexico.

2019 Crawford & Company Day of Service

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

The 2019 Crawford & Company Global Day of Service extends from October 1st to 31st. Various companies around the world pay tribute to this day by selecting a day from the month of October to give back to their own community.

A few examples of projects that companies have completed in honor of the day, which is dedicated to stewardship and supporting the community where you work, include cleaning local parks, serving meals, repairing homes for residents in need, free of charge, and participating in charity walks.

Last year, we of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North cleaned the local stream that we had adopted. We removed debris from the water, including a car tire. We were sure to bring large trash bags to collect the litter that was scattered through the forest which surrounds the water too.

We at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North believe it’s extremely important to take care of our community. We are here to support any commercial and residential needs you may have. We are also here to make sure the environment in our community is being taken care of. That’s why we are taking steps to improve it.

In general, Montgomery County is a populated area. The more crowded an area, the quicker litter tends to build up. Thankfully, a large percentage of residents are environmentally-conscious, and as a result, are careful to dispose of their trash properly and/or take time out of their busy schedules to collect trash.

That being said, we know a lot about water here at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North. While we cleanup and restore water damage, we also know why waterways need to be cleaned and how they are damaged by litter.

Litter can have the following, but not limited to, effects on lakes, rivers, creeks, etc.:

  • Clog storm drains (which can result in flooding)
  • Increase algal blooms (which can suffocate aquatic life)
  • Choke or entangle water species
  • Prohibit drinking and swimming use
  • Decrease aesthetics (not nearly as serious as the other effects, but still…)

We encourage you to donate a few hours of your time per year helping to clean up the environment in your community and are confident you properly throw away, or when appropriate, recycle items you no longer need. Carry a trash bag in your car to throw your personal waste in or to hold litter you may find on your travels.

We at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North thank you for your efforts!

Happy American Business Women's Day

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

September 22 is American Business Women’s Day.

First recognized in 1982, the day celebrates the women of the workforce and female business owners. It commemorates the achievements of working women around the county both now and from history.

Although these women hold diverse occupations, this day unites them due to their dedication and commitment to their careers and their successes and accomplishments in the workplace.

Here at SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, we would like to give a special thanks to all the women of our team!

Remember to reflect on the contributions of the women you know who are a part of the workplace on the 22nd! 

Do you recall a woman from the past or present who has exhibited great leadership skills, innovation, or determination? It could be your mother, your boss or coworker, a past professor, your sister, or a famous scientist, or even someone you’ve seen in the movies.

You can celebrate that woman! Feel free to use the hashtag #AmericanBusinessWomensDay on social media, especially if you’re giving your favorite working woman a shoutout!

If you’re reading this, and you’re a woman of the workforce, we of SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North would like to let you know we notice and appreciate all your contributions!

National Day of Encouragement

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Yesterday marked the 13th annual National Day of Encouragement.

Its purpose is to encourage people to encourage others.

You never know how you can shape someone’s day or how you might be able to turn someone’s day around.

Were you ever having a rough day and a co-worker complimented you? Maybe a classmate told you that your presentation was great. Maybe a co-worker, sibling, or friend told you to keep up the great work.

It costs little to nothing to encourage someone, but it can impact someone’s day, week, or even life unimaginably.

Here a few simple ideas on how you can encourage someone:

  • Write them a simple note and put it in their work mailbox, on their desk, or send via email
  • Give them a small gift, such as a flower or notepad
  • Invite them to lunch and talk with them. A listening ear is all someone needs sometimes!
  • In an encouraging manner, give them advice on how they can stay on top of their goals

At SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North, we are confident you will be able to inspire and encourage someone every day!

How to Prepare Your Property for the Fall Season

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Happy September! It’s important to get your home ready for the change of weather. Below are a few tips for how to prepare your home for fall.

  • Test safety devices: Are your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide devices working? Batteries often time die during the winter months as cold temperatures slow or ultimately stop the chemical reactions (the power source) inside the battery. 
  • Clean your humidifier: Failure to clean humidifiers can result in growth of mold, bacteria, and certain germs.
  • Eliminate drafts: Ensure cold air can’t seep through your windows. If you feel a draft, you should consider replacing seals or purchasing sturdier drapery.
  • Inspect trees: Are there any broken, overgrown or suspicious limbs? Become a branch detective! Ensure no branches are too close to power lines (which can cause a fire) or to your roof.
  • Organize your shed: Clear your garage of summer equipment, furniture, etc. and move it into the shed! Swap your summer items out for fall items for easier access.
  • Secure all loose outdoor furniture and prepare to store them inside: Wind gusts blow over your outdoor furnishings, flower pots, parked bicycles, etc. Snow and heavy rains can damage your properties too. If you must leave certain items outside, consider chaining or roping them to a secure foundation.

Make sure the following aspects of your property are clean:

  • The roof
  • The chimney and fireplace
  • The siding
  • The gutters
  • The water drainage
  • The pipes and spouts

Keep in mind that preventative maintenance is cheaper than emergency repairs and damage!

If you need help safeguarding your home, SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North are here to offer you there services and expertise. Give us a call at (301) 340-1313.

What is a flood cut?

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

What is a flood cut?  Removing the bottom 12-24 inches of drywall in a flood affected room. 

Examples of why we flood cut:

·         If we detect there is wet insulation

·         The water is contaminated from the sewage or other storm  related contaminates

·         If any microbial growth is detected

After the lower wall portions are removed, any studs or framing are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Once the walls are completely dried out new insulations can easily be installed and the finalization of the build back can continue. 

Some of our steps:

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

We use specialized equipment to remove the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Give SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North a call: 301-340-1313...Here to help!

TES -Thermal Energy System

3/30/2017 (Permalink)

The trailer that houses our Thermal Energy System

The Thermal Energy System more commonly known as TES is a special drying technique our company offers. This system allows us to combine controlled heat with air flow to produce high-speed evaporation for the drying of major water damages. 

TES is not a drying method that is used for all of our everyday water damage as it does use high temperatures of heat. For some people experiencing water damage, TES is not ideal, as they are trying to continue living in their homes. 

Special Uses 

However we can use the Thermal Energy System to aid in the drying process in areas like: 

 

  • Crawlspaces
  • Hardwood floors
  • Increasing the productivity of dehumidifiers
  • Supplement drying for hard to dry places

 

The TES system may raise concerns for you as a homeowner when we say high heat temperatures. Worry not, our Hero Ready Team has put safety switches in place. These help to keep the TES machine from reaching over a certain temperature or air flow rate which we set and control.

IICRC Certified Firm

12/6/2016 (Permalink)

Both SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North are IICRC firms. 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 Rockville-Olney and SERVPRO of Silver Spring North

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North specialize 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.

Holiday Fires - Christmas Tree Fire Safety

11/16/2016 (Permalink)

Bulbs on a tree Christmas Tree Fire Safety

Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) show the holidays are a high-risk time for home fires. Christmas trees are responsible for 240 home fires each year, and other holiday decorations are the cause of another 1,170 fires.

Here are some tips to keep your home safe this holiday season: 

•Check the stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree.

•Keep trees at least three feet away from major sources of heat (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, and direct sunlight). Lowering the room temperature will slow the drying process.

•Use lights that produce low heat, such as miniature lights, to reduce drying of the tree.

•Always inspect light sets before placing them on the tree. If worn, replace with a new set.

•Do not overload electrical circuits.

•Always turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or when going to bed.

•Monitor the tree for freshness. After Christmas or if the tree is dry, remove it from the house.

•Install and ensure smoke alarms work inside and outside each bedroom and sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.

If you have a fire, call SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney or of Silver Spring North. We make it "Like it never even happened."

Faster to your Rockville-Olney or Silver Spring North Water Damage Event

11/11/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage Water damage caused by water heater leak.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North provide 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 Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North arrive quickly and start 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 – 301-340-1313

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 Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North

SERVPRO of Rockville-Olney and of Silver Spring North specialize 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.

Certifications

  • OCT - Odor Control Technician
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
  • AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
  • HST - Health and safety Technician
  • ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
  • CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
  • RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
  • WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program

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