Summer Storms in Dearborn & Heights

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

Dearborn Heights firefighters suit up to rescue residents trapped by flood waters. Photo by Double Deuce Fireimages

Summer storm season is upon Dearborn and Dearborn Heights. We can most certainly expect heavy rainfall and floods at some point in the next few weeks. These storms have the potential to cause serious damage to your residential or commercial property.

Wind Damage
Wind damage typically results from a storm. Roof damage can range from loose flashing to a missing roof. Any type of damage to a roof can cause leaks in your structure which may result in moldy conditions inside.

Flooding Damage
Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, as well as the entire Downriver Area, frequently experience flooding during summer months. Even small storms can cause the Ecorse River and Rouge River to flood the streets.

Fire Damage
Storms can easily down our area’s overhead power lines. Occasionally these downed wire spark fires. Never touch a downed wire or anything in contact with the wire.

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights has the experience to mitigate storm damage whether from rain, wind, or fire. Our team is always at the ready and here to help!

Protecting Pipes in Winter

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Poorly insulated pipes can freeze and break in the harsh Dearborn winters

Winter has arrived in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights. Avoiding water damage in your home or commercial property may require additional insulation, heating, or other attention. That extra effort can help prevent that broken water pipes. Water damage can result in thousands of dollars in damage and may require many weeks of repair work.

Examine any areas in your property where water pipes run. Pay especially close attention to pipes near exterior walls, basements and attics, as well as pipes in colder areas of your property like garages and crawl spaces.

It’s a good idea to place an exterior thermometer in the space to confirm the space is warmer than the outside air. If these areas are cold, insulating the pipes or adding a pipe heater can prevent a major disaster.

What Are Contents?

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires can affect the entire home

The damage caused by fire, smoke and soot affects not only the structure of your property, but also your belongings – “contents” is our industry vernacular. SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights understands your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes and other belongings are the very things that make your house your home. Our team takes great care with your contents.

SERVPRO specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire or mold. Our restore versus replace mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items can be restored to pre-fire condition. We'll use several methods to clean your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Office Cleaning Checklist

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Working in a clean and organized office increases productivity

The first of the year is a great time to give your office a thorough cleaning. This is the perfect time to address those neglected chores like vacuuming the hard-to-reach areas, wiping ceiling fan blades and dusting the top of the bookcases.

If your business does not use a full-service commercial cleaning company, it is especially important to focus on a complete workspace cleaning. Having employees spend a little time organizing paperwork, cleaning drawers and shelves, or taking inventory of office supplies is an easy way to get rid of the unnecessary clutter and waste. Organization improves productivity!

Office Cleaning Checklist
Clean

• Windows
• Tops of cubicles
• File cabinets, desktops
• Behind furniture
• Around equipment
• Under desk

Disinfect

• Phones
• Keypad
• Handsets
• Buttons on Equipment
• Desk-tops
• Knobs and Handles
• Light Switches
• Computer mouse and keypad

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Wicked Winter Weather

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

We are always ready for any kind of winter weather disaster

Extreme cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause damage to your property. When these disaster strikes, immediate action is needed to prevent additional damage to your home or business. SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights has the expertise and resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

Frozen Pipes
Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Pipe in partially or unheated areas of a home such as basements, crawl spaces and garages are especially vulnerable to freezing. Outdoor pipes including sprinkler systems, hose bibs, and pool supply lines can freeze if they are not properly winterized and insulated.

Ice Dams
An ice dam forms when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes near the eaves. The dam prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles and leak into homes causing significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles - which can cause further damage to your structure.

Roof Damage
Snow and ice can cause damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. Water can get into cracks and small spaces then expand when it freezes causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

We Keep Your Team Working

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings suffering fire or water losses can count on SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE.

When Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area commercial properties need fire and water cleanup services, one of the first questions the property owner ask is how soon they can reopen for business as usual. 

We understand business interruptions can be devastating to workplaces of all sizes. SERVPRO technicians can quickly create a detailed scope of the work, laying out each phase of the restoration process. This estimate allows business owners to plan for employee’s remote work and non-operational days, if needed. Staying in contact with the property owner and managers, we give real time updates as the process continues. Getting you back to business is our goal.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Storms Hit Dearborn Area Hard

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

The below-grade, floor to ceiling windows of Dearborn's Historic City Hall gave way to flood waters.

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE specializes in storm damage restoration. Five flooding storms in the summer of 2021 tested the mettle of our community and damaged more than 20,000 structures including Dearborn’s historic city hall. Our highly trained crews got right to work using specialized equipment to restore properties to their pre-storm condition.

Faster Response
We are locally owned and operated, so we can respond quickly and with all the right resources. A fast response will lessen the initial damage, limit further damage, and help reduce restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Large Storms
When storms hit the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area, we have resources to scale our response to handle any size storm or flooding. SERVPRO has a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country ready to mobilize to any disaster. We are especially fortunately to have the elite Disaster Recovery Team strategically located throughout in Saginaw.

Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO^© Franchise Professionals are prepared for the unpredictable.

Small Fires Can Be a Mess

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Image courtesy of Double Deuce Fire Images

Even a small fire can be devastating. Here are the three most essential steps to take after a fire of any size.

1. Call Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible after the fire, contact your insurance company. The sooner you connect with your claim manager, the sooner the claim can be processed and restoration can begin. Your insurance carrier may want to send an adjuster out to your property. SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE has relationships with many insurance carriers; many times, we will be sent to inspect and report back to the adjuster.

2. Don’t Touch the Damage
It is critical to leave everything just as it is until the scene has been surveyed by a loss assessor. Removing or attempting to clean thing on your own could slow or stall the claims process. Instead, start making a list of items in your home including their brand, approximate age and initial cost. Remember, damaged areas may still be dangerous. Roofs, walls, and floors have the potential to collapse. In rare cases, fires have the potential to rekindle. Never enter a fire scene until the fire department says it is safe to do so.

3. Hire a Restoration Service
SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE has the expertise in cleaning and restoring properties after disasters like fires. Professional restoration companies can secure the building against additional damage, repair damage and help facilitate repair or replacement personal items such as electronics and artwork.

Understanding the Process

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Our technicians will help you understand the restoration process.

Communication the most critical component of any successful team. At SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE we are always working to optimize our communication. Whether it is with our customers, insurance carriers, outside vendors or within our own team, we know that clear and consistent communication is essential to completing a job quickly and accurately.

Our franchise policy is to communicate with our customers and partners involved in any project as frequently as required. Some job practically run themselves, while others require more involvement. Our technicians in the field, project managers, and office staff all work to keep clear communication flowing between each team and relayed to our clients in a timely manner. We encourage our property owners to reach out to us when every the need help understand the complexities of disaster restoration. 

Happy Halloween

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Batman and Robin in their Bat Cave at the S.O.D.A. neighborhood association's Penn-Vasser Track or Treat 2021.

Halloween is always a spooky good time in Dearborn. After a year off for the pandemic, this year the great Track or Treat tradition happily returned to the Penn-Vasser Park in the Southeast Outer Drive Association neighborhood. Our marketing team went all out to create a Bat Cave kids could actually walk through to get their treats. Hundreds of neighborhood kids visited us to collect candy, toys and other goodies from our very own Batman. Our franchise owner's grandson even made a brief appearance as Robin.

Our commitment to Dearborn and Dearborn Heights runs deep. The communities we serve are home to our staff. We take great pride in not only providing our professional services, but being active in the fun events of the city too.

Elbert Taylor Award

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Dearborn Goodfellows Elbert Taylor Award for Outstanding Community Service

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights Southeast has been active with the Dearborn Goodfellows, a charity dedicated to providing Christmas to area children, for several years.

This summer we humbly received the Elbert Taylor Award for our outstanding community service during the pandemic. We developed and executed a cleaning and sanitizing system to keep the group's many volunteers safe while they worked in the charity's collection, packing and distribution centers.

Dearborn Goodfellow's Executive Director, Larry Johnson, said "SERVPRO has long been a great partner with us. But they really went above and beyond to keep our people safe during the pandemic."

We are very proud to have helped this beloved organization complete their mission despite the difficulties we all faced in 2020.

Mayor Bazzi Visit

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

Mayor Bazzi and franchise owner Maureen Winfree discuss the coming improvement to the Van Born corridor.

We were honored to have Dearborn Heights Mayor Bazzi visit our warehouse. The mayor and his team visited our warehouse on Van Born Road as part of his on going Business Tour campaign.

It was exciting to show off our Dearborn Heights office, equipment and, of course, our team. We had a great conversation about our hopes for the city's future, the various ways we engage in the city outside of work and why we choice this spot in the southeast corner of the city - because it's 15 minutes to Downtown Detroit, Western Wayne County and any Downriver community.

We are proud to be a part of the Dearborn Heights community. The future is bright for the Van Born Corridor and we are excited to have a front row sit to it.

Small Business of the Year

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

We received this beautiful award from the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce.

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights Southeast recently received the Small Business of the Year award from the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce. The award recognized the work we did during the 2020 Covid crisis. We are honored to have both our professional work and charitable efforts recognized by our peers.

Last year disinfecting and sanitizing were needed more than ever. We disinfected an unprecedented number of facilities, as well as responding to a huge increase in house fires. Despite the increased workload, our team found new ways to meet the community’s changing social needs including helping with PPE drive to collect much needed materials for front line workers and distributing lunches to https://dearbornschools.org students. Franchise owner, Maureen Winfree, partnered with https://www.zamaninternational.org for a hugely successive coat drive.

Our commitment to our city is deep. We are honored to be recognized by our community.

Workplace Fire Safety

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Photo courtesy of Double Deuce Fire Images Fire in a Dearborn commercial building

Fires and explosions are fairly rare in the workplace, but they can be extremely dangerous and costly. Here are the most common causes of commercial property fires and steps to help prevent them.

1. Faulty electrical equipment
The most common cause of workplace fires is electrical issues. Overloaded plugs and loose wires can result in electrical fires. Be certain to minimize the number of devices drawing from one power source.

2. Flammable and combustible materials
Improper storage of some materials is a contributor to fires. Industrial workshops and garages are especially prone. Workplace fire loads vary depending on what is stored in your space. This risk can be lessened simply by ensuring all materials are properly stored away from any potential ignition sources.

3. Lack of staff training
Properly training staff to recognize hazards is critical for avoiding and handling emergency circumstances. Avoiding innocent mistakes like improper material storage or blocking cooling vents on electronics can prevent disasters. A top safety priority should be making sure everyone knows what do to in an emergency including evacuation routes and how to use a fire extinguisher.

4. Lack of resources and equipment
Prevention is key. That means investing in the tools designed to keep people safe - smoke detectors, fire alarms and suppression systems. Without these, a fire can quickly reach a dangerous stage. Smoke alarms are as important in the workplace as they are at home.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Water Damage in Your Home

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

Our team is always at the ready for water emergencies

Water damages in your home must be addressed quickly to prevent secondary water damage and mold growth. Enlisting the help of the professionals at SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights is a great first step. Here are some more steps to keep you safe and minimize damages until help arrives.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floor; wet materials may be heavy, be careful!

Once our team arrives on site, the Priority Responder will guide you through the process of restoring your property while our technicians get to work mitigating damage. It is helpful if you can provide the following information to us either during your initial call or when we arrive at your home:

• Name & Contact Information.
• Street Address of the affected home or business.
• Insurance Information if applicable.
• Cause of water damage.
• Approximate time water damage occurred.
• Is there electricity available on site?

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Summer Storms Bring Floods

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

We have the right tools for any water damage to your home and business.

Spring and summer storms frequently bring flooding in the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights areas. The Rouge River is notorious for overflowing after even mild storms. Household fans and dehumidifiers may appear to do the job but water is absorbed by the drywall and settles behind trim and under base plates. SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights has the tools and certified professionals to properly dry your home. Proper drying after water damage is the only way to ensure your home is clean and sanitary.

Our team is IICRC-certified to mitigate any type of flood damage to your home or business with the equipment necessary to do the job right including:

• Moisture Sensors
• Truck-mounted extractors
• Commercial Air Movers & Dehumidifiers
• EPA-registered cleaning agents

We develop a plan to minimize drying time and prevent any secondary damages which can create costly repairs. Once dry, we clean and sanitize the space to prevent future microbial growth and odor. Our goal is to leave your home or business, "Like it never even happened."

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Preventing Damage to Your Commercial Property

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Our technicians will help you understand the process of water mitigation in your commercial building

One of the most common commercial property insurance claims is water damage. The costs can easily exceed $15,000. Regularly scheduled inspections and maintenance of plumbing, roofing and appliances help reduce the risk of leaking and broken pipes.

1. Inspect Plumbing
   Broken pipes are a common cause of water damage in commercial buildings. A thorough annual inspection can identify wear, damage or improper installation; all things making a rupture pipe morel likely. Pipe materials can last two or more decades, but some materials are more likely to degrade. Replacing old polybutylene lines with pipes made of more reliable plastic or metal materials can reduce the risk of breaking.
2. Maintain Roofing
   Roof leaks are another cause of damage that can be prevented with timely inspection and proper maintenance. After severe storms, check the condition of roofing to ensure the shingles are in place and undamaged. Falling limbs are potentially major damaging so be sure to trim trees seasonally.
3. Check Appliances
   Appliances that use water are also potential causes of a pipe break. A toilet backup, loose appliance connections and faulty shut-off valves can cause leaks which spread damage throughout a building. Regular inspections and maintenance of the entire system reduces the risk of large-scale water losses.

Preventative measures are almost always significantly less costly than major repairs. They are also less disruptive to business operations.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Water Damage FAQs

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

It is always best to confirm the exact coverage your homeowner's policy offers

Living in the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area means living with the possibility of frequent flooding. We are often asked about insurance coverage for various types of water damage. It is always best to check with your insurance agent for the specifics of your policy, but here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

1. Does Insurance Cover Broken Pipes?
   Homeowner's insurance does cover damage caused by broken pipes. However, there are stipulations including whether the pipe broke suddenly due to unforeseen circumstances. For example, if an appliance breaks and leaks water into your kitchen, this is covered. However, if the pipe breaks due to poor maintenance, your claim may be denied entirely.
2. Are Frozen Pipes Covered?
   Frozen pipes are typically covered by insurance assuming the property owner has taken reasonable steps to prevent freezing. Each situation is unique and there is a lot of room for interpretation of “reasonable”. Your insurance company may send an adjuster to determine if you are eligible. They examine the source of the problem and determine whether the break could have been prevented.
3. What Happens When There Is Flooding in a Home?
   Generally speaking, damage caused by groundwater or storms is not covered by basic policies. These situations require an additional flood insurance policy. Your homeowner’s policy may have water damage limitations. To properly protect your home, discuss exactly what your policy covers and what additional coverage you may need with your insurance agent.

Winter Damage to Your Roof

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

These massive icicles measured more than 4 ft long. They caused damage to the roof, attic and drywall.

The threat of severe winter storms has passed for south eastern Michigan. Now  is the perfect time to take a look at your roof. If you experienced any significant icing during the winter there may be storm damage to your roof and attic.

Ice Dams

Ice dams form when roof snow melts unevenly then refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. The dam prevents melted snow from draining. The water can then back up under shingles, leak into your attic and residence causing significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and rafters. Ice dams and very large icicles can pull gutters and shingles loose.

Roof Damage

Dearborn’s rough winters can cause significant damage to your roof. While the extra weight of snow and ice can cause a roof to collapse, the damage to your roof is likely more subtle. Water can get into small cracks and spaces. As it freezes and expands the small cracks and spaces expand and cause damage. Have a roofing professional exam your roof for any potential winter damage. If they find any, carefully exam your attic for any signs of damage in the same spot on the inside.

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE is always happy to help you identify any potential problems with roof or attic space.

Dryer Safety

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Proper appliance maintenance is helps extend its life and keeps you safe.

Dryer lint build up can be dangerous. Be sure to clean the dryer filter after each use. A reported 17,000 fires are related to home dryers each year. Here are a few simple tips to help prevent a clothes dryer fire:

-Clean the filter screen after each load to prevent lint buildup.
-Never leave home while the dryer is in use. A person capable of attending to an emergency should be at the ready while a dryer is running.
-Clean the outside vents twice a year to remove any accumulated dust and lint.
-Don't dry mop heads in the dryer. The dryer's heat can ignite the chemical residue on the heads.
-Keep the surrounding area clean. The dryer's heat may ignite anything left too close.

And as always… every home should have working smoke alarms.

Reopening Business After Covid

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Our technicians use hospital grade disinfectants to sanitize Dearborn area businesses

SERVPRO Corporation recently conducted a survey to learn how customers feel about returning to businesses after Covid. The results show many consumers expect higher standards from business than they keep in their own homes. The survey’s complete results can be found at SERVPRO Consumer Survey. Here are few of the highlights:

1. Consumers view a business’ cleanliness during COVID as an indicator of how well that business is run in general.
2. Customers are more trusting of professionally cleaned businesses versus self-cleaned. 
3. COVID exposure from touching surfaces that have not been sufficiently cleaned remains a high concern for customers.

Over the last year, SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE has helped area businesses stay Covid free; as well has disinfecting those who have had exposures. For more information about Covid cleaning, please call our office 313-359-4357

Detecting Water Damage

4/2/2021 (Permalink)

Our technicians use specialized tools to determine the course of action

The first step of any job is "scoping" to see what work needs to be completed. Scoping is locating the area or areas of the structure affected by water. Our technicians utilize a number of tools to assess each situation. Moisture sensors, moisture meters, and thermo-hygrometers to determine the extent of moisture the structure and its contents have absorbed. This also allows us to monitor the drying process as well confirm a structure is thoroughly dried.

The Right Tool For The Right Job

We use different tools, all with similar sounding names, for different situations and materials. Moisture sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls. Moisture meters are used to determine the actual moisture of various other materials. The moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that allow team members to monitor the whole drying process, while thermo-hygrometers measure both air temperature and relative humidity. These two readings are used with a psychrometric chart to calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure. This equipment is essential to making the job process run efficiently which allows us to return your property to its preloss condition.

Roof Tarps Prevent More Damage

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

This East Dearborn mosque's roof was covered in a tarp after storm damage.

The Detroit area has quickly changing weather. Sunny to stormy and back to sunny in a day in a common occurrence. Roofs often take the brunt of storms. Wild winds can cause shingles to lift or be dislodged. Falling trees and flying debris can do much more damage. It is important to quickly and properly cover any external damage to prevent further problems inside your property. 

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE provides emergency roof tarps for all sorts of structures including residential and commercial properties, as well as places of worship. We recently secured the roof of this East Dearborn mosque after a storm damaged it. Never walk on or try to inspect a damaged roof. The damage may be more severe than it appears to the eye.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Flooded Basements in Dearborn Heights

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Spring flooding caused damage to this Dearborn Heights basement

Bounded by the Rouge and Ecorse Rivers, Dearborn Heights sees a lot of flooding. Many homes in the area experience annual flooding. The professionals at SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE have years of training and a lot of experience handling flooded basements – sometimes even our own basements!

Preventing Basement Flooding

There are some easy steps you can take to help safeguard your basement against flooding damage.

• Keep your gutters and downspouts clean and flowing away from your foundation.
• Check for pooling water in your yard. If water runs toward the foundation, consider re-grading your yard.
• Make sure windows are protected with window well covers.
• Install an automatic sump pump.
• Check to see if flood insurance is available for purchase.

What to do when your basement floods?

Calling the professionals of SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE for help with a flooded basement is always a good idea. Wet carpet and furniture are very difficult to remove. Mildew begins grow in hours. The smell of unsanitary water can permeate the entire home. Before we are arrive there are a few steps you can take to help the drying process:

1. Shut off electricity and gas to the area. Never enter the water until power is shut off.
2. If your basement has a drain you can safely reach, check if it is clogged. This may help expedite the draining.
3. If you are able, remove any items that appear damaged by the water.  Move them to a space where they can dry. Remove items from boxes so they can dry. Inspect all items and monitor for mildew growth.
4. Get the air moving in the basement to dry it out. Open windows and doors. A dehumidifier will aid the drying process.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Cleaning Food Service Facilities

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Sanitizing the Dearborn of a Dearborn area restaurant for reopening!

Safety Is Our Top Priorities When Cleaning Restaurants, Kitchens and Food Service Facilities

The Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area has a restaurant for every taste including the best Middle Eastern food outside the actual Middle East. We are proud to provide commercial kitchen cleaning services to many of these establishments. During this down time, our team is providing kitchen and front of house cleaning, as well as pro-active Covid-19 sanitization.

Our professionals follow both the State of Michigan and Wayne County health regulations to keep your restaurant running smoothly. You can trust SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE to be mindful of the complicated health codes, food safety regulations, and environmental concerns. We work for the continued safety of you and your customers.

Types of Facilities:

• Restaurants and Bars
• Senior Living Facility Kitchens
• School Kitchens
• Food Manufacturing Facilities
• Food Distribution Centers

Our Experience Includes:

• Facilities Cleaning and Restoration
• Flooding and Water Damage Cleanup
• Restaurant Cleaning – Kitchen & Front of House
• Restaurant Hood Cleaning
• Covid-19 Sanitization and Disinfection
• Odor Removal
• Mold Removal 
• Biohazard Remediation
• Smoke and Soot Cleanup

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Cleaning Up Smoke and Soot After a Kitchen Fire

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

The kitchen in this Detroit Boston-Edison home was damaged when the homeowner left this kitchen briefly to check on her child in the next room.

Careless cooking is the leading cause of house fires^*. Even a small fire can send smoke, soot and smell throughout your entire structure. Protein fires, common in kitchen fires, leave strong, stale smell. Smoke removal may seem like a straight-forward process, but it can be very challenging.

It is best to choose a certified fire restoration company, like SERVPRO of Dearborn And Dearborn Heights SE, to ensure your fire is addressed as quickly and professionally as possible. The company should have well-trained, IICRC-certified technicians as well as use the latest in fire restoration technology and equipment.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

*https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Cooking

Fire & Water Damage Go Hand in Hand

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Dearborn Heights Fire Department spray a home with water from the aerial tower. Photo courtesy of Double Deuce Fireimages

Fire and water damage almost always go hand-in-hand. For this reason, SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE offers both fire restoration and water clean up services. Here are just a few ways fires can lead to water damage:

Fire Hose: High pressure fire hoses emit many gallons of water per minute. Even if it does not take long for firefighters to extinguish a blaze, your property may sustain considerable water damage.

Burst Pipes: Fires burn at different temperatures depending on the fuel source. They can become so hot they can melt certain metals. If the fire in your structure reaches the melting points of certain metals, it is possible to rupture pipes.

Suppression Systems: While more common in commercial buildings, some new houses are built with suppression systems. If your suppression system utilizes water, your building will likely sustain some degree of water damage.

Minimizing Fire and Water Damage
You can minimize fire and water damages by quickly contacting your local fire department as soon as you realize there is a fire. Quick reaction by all can potentially mitigate extensive fire damage by lessening burn time and the need for large amounts water.

Investing in a non-water based suppression system is another precaution. If your current system is water-based, consider programming it to only release water in the fire area or other specific conditions.

The professionally trained team at SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE is experienced in the proper techniques for restoring your property safely, quickly, and effectively.

No Butter But Lots of Ice Cream

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

We swapped our annual butter donation for ice cream!

We are very proud to be active members of the Dearborn community. Our franchise owner sits on the Board of Directors of both the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce and the Dearborn Goodfellows, an organization dedicating to providing Christmas to area families. We are also committed to helping the Dearborn Firefighters Burn Drive with their efforts assisting people impacted by fire.

For 10 consecutive years, SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE has made an annual donation of 100 pounds of butter to the Dearborn Firefighters Burn Drive Corn Roast at the city’s Homecoming Festival. The Covid-19 pandemic has prevented this year’s celebration, but we wanted to continue our tradition of donating to the people who work so hard for our community. We delivered ice cream to the crew working on the steamy Michigan day that should have been the kick off Homecoming 2020. We will be back with the butter next year!

Commercial Services

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Our commercial services are always available

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE’s 24-hour emergency service is dedicated to being faster to any disaster. We respond to your commercial building emergency with the expertise to handle your restoration needs.

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

There is never a good time for fire or water damage to strike your Dearborn or Dearborn Heights area commercial property. Every hour spent addressing the problem is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services at www.SERVPROdearbornmi.com

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Post Construction Cleaning
• Bio-Hazard Cleanup
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Kitchen Fire Risks

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

A pizza box left on top of this stove caused a kitchen fire when the dog jumped up to steal some pizza!

The kitchen is the most likely place for home fires. Here are the top four kitchen fire risks, along with helpful safety tips to avoid fire damage at your Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area home:

1. Unattended Cooking
Most kitchen fires start when someone leaves cooking unattended. It is easy to get distracted while away from the stove. If you absolutely cannot stay in the kitchen, ask someone to keep an eye on the stove or set a timer to remind you to get back to it.

2. Grease Fires
The smoke point for most fats, like kitchen grease, is about 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease reaches its smoke point shortly before a fire ignites. Grease fires must always be extinguished by smothering the flames with baking soda or salt. A Class B or K extinguisher can be used with caution. Be certain to spray an extinguisher from a distance to avoid spreading grease and fire.

3. Combustible or Flammable Materials
Keep paper or plastic food packaging and other flammable materials away from open flames and hot burners. Do not store oven mitts or towels on or above the stove where they may fall on the hot surface. Be mindful of leaving things on top of the stove when not in use. On three separate occasions we have seen fires started by dogs inadvertently turning on gas stoves while trying to reach food containers on the stove top.

4. Microwave-Safe and Oven-Safe Materials
Be certain to check cookware is rated for use in microwaves or ovens. Some packaging is not intended for heating as poses a potential fire hazard. Make sure packaging and dishes are rated for the preparation methods used.

Should a fire occur, depend on the certified fire restoration specialists of SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE to clean your home in accordance with the highest standards.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Specialized Trained Technicians

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Our technicians are specialized trained in the most advice mitigation and cleanup techniques.

According to the restoration industry’s credentialing body, Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), there are several reasons to choose a professional over doing it yourself. Below are a few reasons:

• The process of fire and water restoration is very involved and potentially dangerous.
• Properly trained technicians can help prevent further damage.
• Specialized processes and equipment are required for restoration and vary based the unique circumstances of the property and incident.
• For fire damage, unique cleaning products and techniques are needed to remove ash and soot.
• The quick remediation of the problem is important for more than repairs, it is also a health consideration.
• Choose a company for fire and water restoration with the appropriate licenses and proof that they have the proper insurance.
• Whether at a commercial or residential location, technicians with experience and certification should perform the damage recovery.

SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights Southeast has a team of specially trained and IICRC credentialed professionals. Our crew members undergo rigorous training to earn accreditation and participate in continuing education to stay abreast of the changing technologies in our industry.

Summer Storms

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Power lines felled by a Dearborn summer storm caused this garage fire in the Ford Historic Homes District. Photo courtesy of Double Deuce Fire Images

The Metro Detroit area has the occasional ferocious summer storm. Late spring, well into summer is prime time for tornadoes, floods, thunderstorms, and fires. The SERVPRO of Dearborn team is here for any natural disaster befalling our area.

• Tornadoes– Tornadoes are characterized by whirling winds and debris which can endanger life and property. They are common from spring until the middle of summer but can occur any time of the year.
• Floods– Floods are becoming more common in the U.S., with flash floods as the top weather-related killer. Heavy rains and overloaded storm drains can cause floods. A few inches of water could bring extensive damage to homes and buildings.
• Fires– The heat of the summer, ongoing droughts and lightning strikes can precipitate fire massive fires. Downed power lines are a frequent cause of summer fires.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Biohazard Sanitizing

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Every piece of equipment is clean and sanitized when it comes back from a job site. Our trucks are also sanitized daily.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Dearborn offer cleaning services including biohazard contaminants. We are Here to Help® Get Your Business Back to Normal with specialized training and products. SERVPRO is being called on by numerous Dearborn businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize properties.

Our practices are in accordance with CDC and Wayne County guidelines. The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims.

After every job, our equipment is cleaned, disinfected and sanitized before being used at another job site. Our staff takes all recommended precautions so ensure only clean equipment enters your facility.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, storm and biohazard damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Pets Are Family Too!

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

Frankie can often be found in our office begging for treats.

A fire emergency can take place at any time in your Dearborn area home. Be sure to include your animals when planning and practicing your family’s escape plan.

An important part of the plan is noticing where your pets usually spend their time and, more importantly, where they hide when frightened as fires can be especially scary for pets. You can be better prepared to get your pets out by having a checklist of areas you can look. This information should also be shared with the firefighters at the scene.

By keeping their collars and leashes handy, you can more easily guide them out of the house. It can be easier for the fire department to get them out if they are wearing collars. It is a good idea to hang leashes by the door on your evacuate route.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, storm and biohazard damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

What to do if you have a Water Emergency

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Our water specialists are always ready to help with your water emergency.

Water damage can happen quickly. The Dearborn and Dearborn Heights areas regularly face flooding from the Rouge River. Here are a few tips to help if you encounter a water emergency at your home or business.

Emergency Water Damage Tips:

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.
• Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Don’t use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water; this could cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

If you find that your home or business is faced with a water emergency, please call SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE at 313-359-4357.

COVID-19 and Commercial Facilities

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPROXIDE™, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses

SERVPRO® of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE is committed to providing safe environments for our colleagues and customers. All information we share comes from CDC and WHO. We encourage you to refer to these reliable sources for information.

SERVPRO® professionals are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. We proudly perform proactive cleaning and disinfection of facilities. The CDC’s guidelines for commercial spaces includes all “high touch” items such as light switches, phones, keyboards and doorknobs, as well as:

•Kitchen/Food Areas         •Retails Spaces

•Bathrooms                     •Carpets & Rugs

•Bathrooms                     •Stair Handrails

•Schools/Classrooms        •Offices

•Elevator Cars                  •Water Fountains

•Playground Equipment     •Fitness Equipment

The CDC recommends the use of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against organisms similar to COVID-19. SERVPRO®’s proprietary disinfectant, SERVPROXIDE™, is a hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2 on hard, non-porous surfaces.

We anticipate no impact to our service and believe in our ability to keep all our clients running as usual. Our team continues to monitor news from CDC and WHO. We will reassess the situation and adjust our plans accordingly.

Please contact our office if we can be a resource or service to you as we navigate this unprecedented situation.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

Viral Pathogen Cleaning

3/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn is trained in the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

SERVPRO® of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE offers proactive cleaning services for the removal of biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get you back to business.

About Coronavirus
The CDC is responding to an outbreak of a respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus, COVID-19, first detected in Wuhan City, China. The virus has spread internationally including the United States and one confirmed patient (at time of publication) in Wayne County. COVID-19 is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person or through the respiratory droplets of an infected person. It may be possible to contract COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your own face, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Cleanup and Disinfecting Procedures
Procedures generally include cleaning and disinfecting of porous and non-porous surfaces, equipment and tools, as well as disposal of waste. The CDC recommends using a labeled hospital grade disinfectant with claims against organisms similar to COVID-19. 

SERVPRO’s hospital grade proprietary disinfectant, SERVPROXIDE™, is effective against viruses similar to COVID-19 on hard, non-porous surfaces. Currently there are no disinfectants tested specifically for this particular emerging viral pathogen. However, per the CDC, this product can be used against COVID-19.  Additionally, SERVPROXIDE™ has EPA-approved claims including Feline coronavirus, Canine coronavirus, Staphylococcus (MRSA), E. coli, Salmonella, Rotavirus, Swine flu (H1N1) and more. Porous materials like carpet, rugs, upholstered items, and draperies that are not water sensitive can also be wet cleaned using SERVPROXIDE™.

Cleanup Scope of Work and Planning
The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidelines for commercial spaces, as well as the following:  

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

Scope of Cleanup Protocol
SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE can perform a proactive facility or structure cleaning and disinfection where the customer states there is no active known threat of COVID-19 contamination or exposure. The customer will be required to acknowledge cleaning and disinfecting will only apply to the current state of the structure and contents. The structure would not be protected from future COVID-19 contamination if an infected person were to enter and occupy the building.

Holiday Candle Safety Tips

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Candles are beautiful but also pose risk

Adding candles to holiday décor can add beauty. It also adds to the risk of a house fire. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), from 2012-2016, an estimated 8,200 house fires that were started by candles per year. These fires caused 770 injuries and $264 million in property damage. The top 3 days for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

To minimize your risks, the NFPA recommends using battery-operated flameless candles, which can look and smell like real candles. If you chose real candles, they recommend the following:

• Make sure they are in stable holders and place them where they cannot be knocked over.
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home.
• Completely extinguish all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Never use of candles in the bedroom or other areas where people may fall asleep.
• Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn including hair and loose clothing.
• Don’t burn a candle down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container.
• Have battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.

Decking the halls should be fun, but always remember to exercise more caution when using candles.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Candles

Winter Storms and Broken Pipes

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Pipes can easily freeze and rupture during the bitter cold of Michigan winters

The Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area face a few serious winter risks, but the bitter cold of Metro Detroit can be a real threat to your home.

Pipes break when exposed to the cold weather anywhere - outside your house, near exterior walls or in cold areas such as basements, attics, and garages. Even under sink kitchen or bathroom pipes are vulnerable if the heat drops inside your home. A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located. More often the rupture is caused by the back flow pressure between the water source and the frozen blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed immediately. The American Red Cross offers a few tips to help prevent frozen pipes in your home.

• Completely drain water from swimming pools, sprinkler lines, and outside hoses
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air near the plumbing
• Let a very small amount of water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes
• Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night

If you are lucky enough to escape the Michigan winters, please do not lower the heat in your empty house more than a few degrees. Every winter we see several empty homes with broken pipes due to the heat being turned off or lowered to dangerous levels. The energy cost savings will not outweigh the insurance claim. For more information visit https://disastersafety.org/winter-weather/protect-your-home-from-severe-winter-weather/

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Ice Dams Are a Major Concern

12/20/2019 (Permalink)

Icicles may be an indicator of ice dams

The frequently vacillating temperatures of the Dearborn area can be havoc for you roof. Ice dams are a little understood problem that can cause major problems during snowy weather. They form when heated air melts roof snow. The now liquefied snow runs downward to the gutters. Since the unheated gutters are still full of snow and ice. When the water cannot flow into the gutter system, it can seep under the roof’s shingles and into the structure’s interior.

Icicles may be an exterior indicator of an ice dam. Water stains or moisture along the exterior walls or in the attic may be an indication of ice dams and water penetration of the roof membrane. Eliminating the dam as quickly as possible is critical to prevent damage. This can be done with heated roof cables, a roof shovel, or a calcium chloride ice melter.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Ice Storm Tips

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Close to the street houses are frequently hit by cars leaving icy roads. Picture courtesy of Double Deuce Fire Images.

As autumn quickly becomes winter in the Metro Detroit area, we see a number of different types of storm damage. Especially dangerous are ice storms. The weight of ice can bring down power lines and tree branches causing a host of problems. Those downed lines can knock out power and heat for days.

Without heat the pipes in your house will quickly freeze and break. Frozen pipes are one of the most frequent calls we get in the winter. Broken pipes can happen anywhere in your house. Depending on where it happens it can affect every level of your home. If maintaining a constant temperature to avoid frozen pipes is beyond your control, try keeping pipes wrapped in pipe insulation (try a towel or blanket if you do not have pipe insulation) and keep cabinet doors to let what little warm air there may be circulate.

The icy, curvy roads of the down river area pose a unique challenge for winter driving. A less frequent, but still fairly regular post-ice storm call is for board up service. Cars sliding off roads and hitting houses, garages and commercial buildings is frightening occurrence. Our crews are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to secure your property after being struck by a vehicle or tree.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Dearborn's Growing Hospitality Industry

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

It was all hands on deck after a fire disabled an entire wing of a Detroit area hotel.

The hospitality industry is booming in Dearborn and the Metro Detroit area. SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE understands keeping your guests satisfied and safe is your top priority. When disaster strikes your hospitality facility the help of a specially trained team is critical to resume normal operations quickly and efficiently.

Whether the cause is a fire, malfunctioning sprinkler head, bio-hazard or even a natural disaster, our team is always at the ready. We work to isolate the damaged area so basic functions can continue normally. Most importantly we work to minimally impact your guests.  Our professionally trained crews work with your management and maintenance teams to prioritize your specific needs and ensure every area is restored to your complete satisfaction. We provide emergency, as well as non-emergency services to a wide variety of hospitality facilities including:

• Hotels
• Restaurants
• Convention Centers
• Entertainment Venues
• Banquet Halls

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

State of the Art Water Drying Technology

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE uses state of the art technology

Quickly drying your home or business after water damage is crucial. Excess moisture allows mold and mildew to develop and bacteria to multiply. That’s why SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE uses specialized tools such as moisture meters.

The meters allow us to precisely access moisture levels in every area including hard to reach areas and areas thought to be unaffected. These areas may be inside walls, in the space between drywall layers, beneath carpet and tile or even subflooring. Identifying potential damage to these lesser-suspected areas can save thousands of dollars in repairs later.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Commercial Building Maintenance

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

Regardless of the size of your commercial building, SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE can help with all your restoration needs.

There are some important things to keep in mind in the prevention water damage to a commercial building. Damage and potentially damaging situations are not always obvious when examining your property. The website disastersafety.org offers some easy tips to preventing water damage at your commercial building.

Ground Maintenance:
Landscaping and ground maintenance are major components of a complex system protecting a commercial building from water damage. Proper drainage prevents water pooling against your building. Grassy areas, flower beds and trees help absorb water, drawing it away from buildings.

Building Envelope:
Any unwanted water intrusion can significantly impact the value of a commercial property. Protecting the roofs, walls, windows, and other components of ‘the envelope’ (everything that protects in the interior from the elements) is critical to reducing the likelihood of water damage. Periodically check all exteriors for leaks, damage or signs of standing water.

HVAC Systems: 
Proper operation and maintenance of the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system will reduce the risk of water damage to a commercial building.  

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Fire Extinguisher Primer

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing how to properly use a fire extinguisher can help save property and lives.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers can save lives and property, but many people do not know how to use them properly, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. To help ensure you’re better prepared for a fire emergency, the agency offers the following tips:

Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher
There are five primary types of fire extinguishers, each designed to put out different kinds of fires:

• Class A. For use with ordinary materials like cloth, wood and paper. Often found in homes and businesses.
• Class B. For use with combustible and flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, oil and oil-based paints. Often found in homes and businesses.
• Class C. For use with electrical equipment like appliances, tools or other equipment that’s plugged in. Often found in homes and businesses.
• Class D. For use with flammable metals. Often found in factories.
• Class K. For use with vegetable oils, animal oils and fats in cooking appliances. Often found in commercial kitchens.

For the home, choose a multipurpose fire extinguisher that covers Class A through Class C for fighting all three types of common house fires. Most home improvement stores carry multipurpose A-B-C models. In addition to fire extinguishers, every household should have working fire alarms and a fire escape plan.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are designed for small, confined fires, not large ones that are growing. Before using an extinguisher, make sure the fire is contained in a single object, such as a pan or wastebasket. Alert others in the building that there’s a fire, and have someone call the fire department. Before proceeding, make sure you are physically able to handle the fire extinguisher, safe from the fire’s toxic smoke and have a clear escape route.

To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS:

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

If you’re unsure about whether it’s safe to use a fire extinguisher–and for all other fire situations–alert others, leave the building, and call 911 from a mobile or neighbor’s phone. Safety should be the top priority, and it’s essential to follow your instincts and know when to get out. As such, it’s not recommended that children use fire extinguishers.

The Importance of Maintenance
To ensure fire extinguishers are ready in case of an emergency, make sure to regularly check them for the following:

• Easy access in an emergency. Be sure nothing is blocking or limiting your ability to reach the extinguisher.
• The recommended pressure level. Many extinguishers have gauges that show when pressure is too high or too low.
• Working parts. Make sure the can, hoses and nozzles aren’t damaged, dented or rusted.
• Remove any dust, oil or grease that might be on the outside of the extinguisher.
• Guidelines and instructions. Some extinguishers need to be shaken monthly, while others need to be pressure tested every few years.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Source: Rismedia.com

Intrusive Waters

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

Allen Park, Michigan neighborhood was flooded by hard hitting spring rains.

Anyone living in the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights knows the area is prone to flooding. The resulting damage can affect only your belongings as well as the structure of your house. SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE understands that your home is more than a structure. Your furniture, clothing, keepsakes are important to you.  We offer a full range of services to help restore your personal items.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE specializes in restoring contents damaged by water. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe - Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned. 
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product. 

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration, SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE can provide pack out of the affected area.  A move-out will provide several benefits, including the following:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

Secure Storage

Our storage facilities keep your belongings safe from further damage. We have a warehouse dedicated to storage keeping your items safe and secure. The space also allows us to bring damaged items to our facility for cleaning and restoration before going into your private storage area.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

The Smell of a Fire

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

This box of new dishes had not been unpacked before a fire. Soot was able to get inside the still sealed box.

Besides the memory of a house fire, the thing that lasts the longest is the smell. If not professionally remediated, the odor can linger for a very long time.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE can rid your home of this odor. Unlike the pleasant smell of campfires, house fires have a unique and offensive odor due to the combination of the natural and synthetic fibers of woods, plastics, building materials, electronics and furniture in homes. Our Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification trained technicians use a multi-step process to eliminate odors.

Removing 
The first step is removing the source of the odor. Depending on the specifics of the fire, SERVPRO technicians may remove cabinetry, flooring, construction materials, or any combination of these things. Our crews will safely and efficiently dispose of these materials giving us a better idea of how to address the remaining smells.

Cleaning  
Next is deodorizing. Smoke and soot will travel throughout your house during a fire depositing itself on every surface and in every space. As people enter and exit your house, soot continues to get stirred and travel. If your HVAC system is still running, it can send soot and smell into unaffected rooms. Soot is absorbed by dry wall on both the ceilings and walls. It can even penetrate sealed boxes as shown in the picture. The surface type and amount of soot determines how our SERVPRO technicians clean each thing.

Sealing 
The final step is drywall sealing. Sealing is not required in every case. It is typically only used if the damaged is extensive and/or removing it is too costly and impractical. After we clean the affected area, we seal it to prevent the stains and smells from seeping through.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Cleaning Up After Floods

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

We can provide secure storage for all your personal items

Anyone living in the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights knows the area is prone to flooding. The resulting damage can affect only your belongings as well as the structure of your house. SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE understands that your home is not just the structure more than a structure; your furniture, clothing, keepsakes, are equally important to you.  We offer a full range of services to help restore your personal items as well.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE specializes in restoring contents damaged by water. We utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe - Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned. 
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product. 

Move-Outs/Pack-Outs

If your home requires extensive restoration, SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE can provide pack out of the affected area.  A move-out will provide several benefits, including the following:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

Secure Storage

Our storage facilities keep your belongings safe from further damage. We have a warehouse dedicated to storage where we can keep your items safe and secure. The space also allows us to bring damaged items to our facility for cleaning and restoration before going into your private storage area.

Committed to our Neighbors

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

Frankie the SERVPRO dog is a proud sponsor of Dearborn's Dog Park and is the star of the park's banner!

SERVPRO is recognized as a nationwide leader in disaster restoration services. An important factor in its national success is each franchise is locally owned and operated. SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE is fully committed to serving our area. We take great pride in being involved in our community and its events, as well has having excellent working relationships with our first responders. Our crews enjoy helping other area business owners when needed. Serving our neighbors keeps our entire team invested in each project.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, smoke, water and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Commercial Cleaning Schedule

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

We offer an array of non-emergency cleaning services.

Running a business means daily challenges. One of those challenges is keeping your commercial building clean and safe for employees and visitors. Here is a suggested schedule for your commercial building cleaning routine.

DAILY

• Clean and disinfect all bathrooms including sinks and both the inside and outer area of toilets. Pay close attention to the flooring around the toilet.
• Clean and disinfect doors, door handles, and light switches, especially during cold and flu season.
• Sweep and mop floors using a disinfectant liquid. Be sure to clean or replace the mop head regularly to keep it from mildewing and spreading germs.
• Provide cigarette receptacles and empty them.
• Disinfect the kitchen area including the sinks and countertops.
• Clean all glass, especially entrance doors.

WEEKLY

• Wipe and disinfect work desks, phones, keyboards, printers, and filing cabinets.
• Sweep or vacuum all floors.
• Dust windowsills, baseboards and flat surfaces.
• Straighten and dust framed artwork, certifications and news articles, etc.
• Clean the refrigerator and microwave.
• Sweep and tidy all entrances.
• Remove trash and debris from parking areas.

MONTHLY

• Inspect roofing, exterior doors and windows, and parking areas for potential problems and maintenance needs.
• Trim back large bushes and tree limbs on your property before wet/windy weather.
• Do a quick inspection of fencing and entrance gates.
• Schedule periodic maintenance of all HVAC systems and ductwork.

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights SE offers services beyond disaster restoration. We are able to handle all your commercial building cleaning needs!

Fire Facts

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

Maritime Code has determined pistachios to be flammable and therefore dangerous to ship.

Discovery Magazine provided an interesting and informative list of fire facts. Whether you are enjoying an evening bonfire or experience and accidental fire, it is important to know your fire facts. 

1. Earth’s air is 21% oxygen and the only known planet where fire can burn. No other planet has enough oxygen to ignite or sustain fire.
2. Oxygen supply influences the color of the flame. Low oxygen fires still containing uncombusted fuel give off a yellow glow, while high-oxygen fires burn blue.
3. Although rare and only in very specific circumstances, spontaneous combustion is real. Some fuel sources can generate their own heat via decomposition or rotting. Pistachios have so much natural oil and are so prone to heat-generating fat decomposition that the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code regards them as dangerous.
4. Haystacks, compost heaps, and even piles of old newspapers and magazines can also burst into flame due to their decomposing.
5. America’s deadliest fire took place April 27, 1865, when the boilers on the steamship Sultana. Among other passengers were 1,500 recently released Union prisoners.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Deodorization Experience

7/5/2019 (Permalink)

Let us help get your home smelling clean again

One of the most common questions we get from residents of the metro Detroit area is how to get rid of smells. SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast has been asked to address a lot of smelly situations including these actual scenarios we have resolved:

• Lingering smoke smell after a fire
• An injured bird took up residence in an office
• Smells left from flooded basements
• Overflowing toilet leaves residual odor
• Skunk sprayed dog roamed house leaving its smell everywhere
• Dead animal found in the ceiling of a partially constructed building
• Odor remaining after a bio hazard accident

Every situation is unique so we first must inspect your specific case to determine the best method of deodorization. The most common methods are placing an ozone or hydroxyl generator in the affected area, and/or using SERVPRO proprietary cleaning and deodorizing products.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Summer Thunderstorms

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Damage resulting from rain is no trouble for SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast.

Dearborn and the surrounding Metro Detroit area can experience violent summer storms. Thunderstorms near the Ecorse and Rouge Rivers often cause flash flooding resulting in water damage to commercial and residential properties. Heavy winds capable of knocking down trees and power lines increase the potential for damages. While rare in southeastern Michigan, tornadoes and hail are most likely to happen during summer storms. 

Severe thunderstorms and their cause

Like all weather phenomenon, thunderstorms vary greatly in strength. The National Weather Service considers a thunderstorm “severe” if it is capable of producing one or more of these conditions:

• Hail one inch or larger in diameter
• Winds of 58 miles an hour or greater
• Funnel clouds or tornadoes

Checking weather reports or subscribing to a weather service for the Metro Detroit area is a great way to stay informed about expected weather. Another way is to keep an eye to the sky for certain types of clouds. Thunderstorms form when moisture in warm, unstable air starts to lift as it meets a cold front. Dense, vertical, cumulonimbus clouds frequently indicate thunderstorms are imminent.

If you are impacted by thunderstorms anywhere in the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights area, SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast is always available to help.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Bio-hazard Specialists

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

Always call the pros for bio-hazard cleanup

Bio-hazard cleanup is an exacting and very serious job. SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast provides full service disaster cleanup including bio-hazard cleaning. Our certified technicians handle all aspects of this specialized service including cleaning, sanitizing, and disposal of affected materials.

Our pros have more than 10 years of experience providing property owners reliable cleanup services for all types of disasters. We understand bio-hazard incidents are sometimes sensitive situations. Regardless of the circumstances, we take special care to be discrete and compassionate. Because our 24/7 services are always at the ready for any cleanup, the chances of secondary damage are reduced. Our team will help you navigate through your insurance claim too.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights Southeast provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is always just a phone call away.313-359-3457

SERVPRO's Unique Restoration Process

6/11/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast can get you back to enjoying your home!

A fire at your home is devastating. A property owner who has experienced a fire will wonder how to clean up their building and how to salvage their possessions. The team at SERVPRO Dearborn & Dearborn Heights Southeast specializes in restoring both buildings and contents. From first contact to completion of restoration, our unique process helps ease some of your burden after a disaster.

Here are the steps of the process:

STEP 1: Emergency contact – you can reach us 24/7

STEP 2: Immediate Board-up and Roof Tarp – securing doors and windows, tarping roof

STEP 3: Inspection and Assessment – determine work needed

STEP 4: Water Removal and Drying – extracting standing water and dehumidification

STEP 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot Damage – an exhaustive and detailed cleaning of everything

STEP 6: Restoration – restoring your home to its preloss condition.

STEP 7: Enjoy your home again!

Prevent Storm Damage With a Sump Pump

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

This helpful diagram explains how a sump pump works.

A sump pump can be an effective method for preventing basement flooding and subsequent storm damage. Whether it is rain or snow melt, a sump pump can give you protection all year long.

Typically, sump pumps are installed in a pit in the basement floor to sense when water levels begin to approach floor level. The potentially damaging water is then pumped outside before it can affect anything inside. Sump pumps are fairly low-maintenance devices, but a regular inspection of yours will keep it in good working order.

Follow this simple steps for your regular maintenance:

• Check the discharge line is not stopped, frozen or clogged.
• Check the inlet screen is free of residue and debris. Remove any visible debris, mud or stones from the pit.
• Be certain the float component is unobstructed and moving smoothly.
• Test the pump by slowly pouring water into the pit. The float should rise and trigger the pump to start working. It the pump doesn’t kick on, confirm the unit is plugged in. Then check to confirm float switch and valve are working properly.
• Check at the discharge site outside the house to be certain the water is flowing.
• If your unit has battery backup, consult the owner’s manual for instructions on checking and replacing the battery.

In the event of sump pump failure, SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE is available 24/7 to dry, clean and sanitize your basement and any affected personal items.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Renter's Insurance

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Help protect your property by requiring renter's insurance.

Requiring a tenant to have renter’s insurance is a smart move for any property owner. Here are a few of the benefits of requiring it of all tenants:

1. Mitigate the Threat of Lawsuits
   The primary reason for requiring tenants to carry renter’s insurance is to lessen the property owner’s chance of being sued. If an uninsured tenant’s belongings are damaged, they may try to sue the owner for reimbursement.
2. Reduce Your Responsibility
   The landlord’s obligation to relocate a tenant if the leased space becomes uninhabitable varies depending on the specific terms of each lease. Tenants with renter’s insurance do not have the rely on the landlord’s largess for relocation as that is the tenant’s insurance carrier’s obligation.
3. Weed Out Questionable Tenants
   Prospective tenants who balk at required renter’s insurance are likely tenants you’d rather not have. Renter’s insurance is one the least expensive types of insurance available. If this expense is difficult for them to bear, there may be undisclosed financial concerns.
4. Cover Your Deductible
   If a tenant inadvertently causes a fire or other catastrophic damages to your building your insurance policy will may cover the repair costs. However, you will be responsible for the deductible, which can be a substantial amount of money. A properly insured tenant’s policy should cover the deductible thereby lessening your risk
5. Annual Check Ups
   With each year’s lease renewal, be certain to require proof of insurance. Some tenants may allow conditional policies to lapse once they have moved in. Cancelling or allowing a policy to lapse should be grounds to terminate the lease agreement.

Spring Flooding in Dearborn Area

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Recent flooding in South Dearborn Heights. Photo courtesy of Double Deuce Fire Images.

Flooding is very common in the Dearborn and Dearborn Heights areas. The 2019 spring storm made the both the Ecorse and Rouge River overflow causing dangerous flooding in South Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and Allen Park. FEMA offers some great tips for anyone living in flood prone areas.

Be Prepared

• Sign up for your community’s warning system. Nixle is a great local resource.
• Consider flood insurance. Consult an insurance professional to confirm the best coverage for you.
• Keep important documents in a waterproof container.
• Be sure drains and gutters are clear and flowing. Consider a sump pump with a battery backup.

During a Flood

• Evacuate immediately when told to do so. Always follow the directions of local first responders. They have established the best plan based on information you do not have.
• Never drive or walk through floodwater.
• Never allow children or pets to enter, play or swim in floodwater. It is contaminated and dangerous.

After the Flood

• Follow instructions from authorities.
• Even in the metro Detroit area, snakes or other animals may be in your house.
• Never touch wet electrical equipment or if you are standing in water.
• Underground or downed power lines can electrically charge the water. Never enter floodwaters.
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

Small Fires Can Be a Big Deal

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

An example of a vented roof. Image courtesy of Double Deuce Fire Images.

Even a small fire in your home can do a lot of damage. Luckily, locally owned and operated SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE offers a complete range of services to mitigate any fire disaster in your home regardless of how large or small it is.

To completely and properly extinguish a fire, the fire department may do a fair amount of damage your home. A tremendous amount of water is used to extinguish a fire – even a “small” fire. The volume and force of the water flow coupled with the length of time to drain and dry the area can damage many parts of the house, even those not directly affected by the fire. Fighting fires also results in some degree of structural damage. During a fire, there is little to no visibility in the house. By “venting” (cutting a hole) in the roof, firefighters are able to help remove the smoke, thereby improving their access and ability to see. Once the fire is out, firefighters may open walls, pull out cabinets or do other structural damage during “overhaul” which is methodically confirming there are no lingering embers in unseen places as those may rekindle causing more damage.

Whatever type of disaster strikes your home SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE is here to help. We provide complete board up and securing services as well as clean up services after any type of disaster in the greater Detroit area.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire and smoke, water, flood, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Why SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE Should Handle Your Next Loss

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Our main office is located on Van Born Road in South Dearborn Heights.

A quick response to a disaster helps mitigate the overall impact of the incident. That is why having a locally owned and operated disaster restoration company at the ready is important to property owners and managers. If you are unsure how to select the best, here is our case for why your choice should be SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE.

24/7 Emergency Services
Disasters can happen any time, therefore, it is critically important to have a response team available at any time—including after hours and holidays. SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE offers around-the-clock emergency services. We will respond to your crisis regardless of the time of day or day of week.

Large Loss Capabilities
One thing that separates SERVPRO from other area restoration businesses is our statewide Large Loss network. This network gives us the manpower, equipment, and the capacity to respond to any size large-scale disasters. With access to more than 1,000 full time industry professional, a vast catalog of machinery, and mobile command units, SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE can handle any size loss.

Years Of Service
We have served Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the surrounding area for more than 10 years.  During that time, we’ve worked with countless homeowners and commercial property managers to restore their properties after many types of disaster.

Invested In The Community
The team at SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE is deeply rooted in this community. Our key employees all live in the area. We are committed to providing outstanding service to our neighbors. We actively support several local nonprofits such as Dearborn and Dearborn Heights Goodfellows, Dearborn Firefighters Burn Drive, and Dearborn Police Officers Charities. Our marketing team is active with the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce, serving on many of their planning committees.

If you are a residential or commercial property owner and/or manager in the Dearborn area, we are here to help you!

Pack Outs

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO offers packing and storing of commercial and residential furniture during cleaning and restoration.

When disaster strikes your home or business you will very likely need to have your belongings packed and stored while remediation and cleaning are performed. Removing items from the affected areas allows us to work more quickly without risk to your possessions.

Using a proprietary inventory control program, SERVPRO of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights SE carefully inventories all your items, categorizing them as salvageable or unsalvageable. Salvageable items are inventoried, boxed and brought to our facility for cleaning, deodorization and, if needed, disinfection. These items are then stored in our climate control facility until the property own is ready to receive them. Unsalvageable items are itemized and photographed for your insurance claim. Disposal of these items is at the directive of the assigned insurance adjuster.

Emergency Water Tips

2/21/2019 (Permalink)

Even a small water leak can be a big problem in your commercial building

Water Damage Tips

Unwanted and uncontrolled water is always upsetting. If you encounter water damage on your commercial or residential property, here are a few steps you can take to help mitigate damages.

• Shut off the water source if possible
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Lift and prop up wet upholstery cushions
• Put wooden block or aluminum foil under furniture legs to prevent water absorption
• Remove rugs from wet carpet
• Hang furs and leather goods at room temperature with space between each item
• Never use a regular vacuum to remove water
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures is the ceiling is wet
• Stay out of areas where the ceiling is sagging with retained water
• Do not leave books, magazines or any colored items on wet carpets

SERVPRO of Dearborn provides 24/7 response to water damage. We provide water mitigation services to client throughout the Detroit Metro area. Our water damage services include:

• Emergency response to reduce loss severity
• Specialized drying and dehumidifying  techniques
• Structural restoration services
• Content cleaning, pack out and storage

Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Dearborn Area

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Pipe insulation is an inexpensive way to help protect pipes in the winter. Source: Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety

So far the winter of 2018-19 has been very kind to Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, but Metro Detroiters know the mild winter won’t last. SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE offers some tips to help you escape the winter misery of broken pipes. With a bit of planning and effort, broken pipes can be avoided.

Inside the house:

1. Always keep the temperature above 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Keep your fireplace flue closed when you are not using it. Be sure to open it before use.
3. Open the cabinets a bit to let warm air flow under sinks ad around pipes.
4. Leave the hot and cold faucets dripping a tiny bit to keep the water flowing.
5. Consider installing inexpensive pipe insulation readily available at most hardware stores.

Outside the house:

6. Be sure to disconnect all hoses from spigots. Ideally, shut off the valves to these spigots.
7. Keep an eye out for snow and ice damage near the roof line, gutters and downspouts.
8. If you are out of the house for a few days, ask a trusted neighbor to check on your place. A flooded house can begin to grow mold in a few hours.
9. Finally, make sure everyone in your home knows how to shut off the main water valve in case of an emergency.

In the winter months it is important inspect your home’s gutters and downspouts for ice dams. Ice dams forms when heated air from inside the home melts snow on the roof. The melted snow then runs down the roof until it is trapped behind ice at the gutters. Since the trapped water cannot run through the gutter as intended, it backs up under the shingles. This water can cause structural damage and promote mold growth.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire and smoke damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

After a Fire, SERVPRO of Dearborn/ Dearborn Heights SE Has a Plan

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE has a cleaning protocol for fires of all size.

After a fire you will have many questions. What can be saved? How do I clean this? Will this need to be replaced? You may feel very overwhelmed when your home and your possessions are affected by smoke, soot and water. SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE will help you navigate through this confusing event. Our proprietary restoration procedures are specifically developed for fire damage recovery. We test all your furniture and personal items to determine which things can be restored and which need to be replaced.

Regardless of its size, SERVPRO approaches your fire damage with a solid plan of action. The first step is a thorough evaluation of your specific situation. Our course of action will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Safety During the Winter

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Half of all home heating fires happen in December, January and February. Source: NFPA

Fire safety is especially important in the winter. Winters in the metro Detroit area can be bitterly cold causing broken pipes, ice dams and house fires. The National Fire Protection Agency, a trade group dedicated to setting and promoting fire safety standards, offers some important tips to remain safe during the winter months:

1. Test smoke alarms every month.
2. Install carbon monoxide alarms in your home.
3. Plan two ways out of your home.
4. Keep driveways and front walk cleared for your and first responders' safety.
5. Be aware of weather. Listen to TV or radio for updates and changes.
6. Have flashlights on hand if power goes out. Never use candles.
7. Keep generators outdoors and away from windows or doors. Never run a generator in the garage even if the overhead door is open.
8. Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn.
9. Turn off portable heaters when you leave room or go to sleep.

Your neighbors at SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE hope these simple tips with help you stay safe and warm all winter long.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn / Dearborn Heights SE
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn / Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Steps to Reduce Water Damage

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

When water causes problems in your home SERVPRO of Dearborn / Dearborn Heights SE is always available to help.

Whether it’s a leaky faucet, backed up drain or flooded basement, water can cause all sorts of damage to your residential property. The damage and problems can be immediate ruining your furniture and mementos. The damage may also be long term causing mold growth or even structural damage and health issues.

Here are the first steps to take when dealing with rogue water on your property.

1. Stop the flow of water! If the water is coming from a broken pipe, appliance or water heater, shut off the main water line to your home.
2. Turn off the power! If your home is flooded shut off the electricity and gas at the main source. This is only needed in the event of flooding. Leaks and standing puddles do not require this step.
3. Do not handle electrical appliances! Unless you are properly insulated do not touch any electrical appliances. If you must stand in water to turn off the electricity, please consult a licensed electrician.
4. Assess and document the damage! Before starting to cleanup document the damage with photographs. Use a ruler to show the depth of the water in photographs or video. This is important for any insurance claims.
5. Rescue valuable items! If it is safe to enter the damaged area, find and remove important items and documents like identity and insurance papers, jewelry, and cash.
6. Get rid of standing water! The longer water sits, the more damage it does. If the floor drains are not blocked, the waters of a flooded basement will likely recede via the drains. However, it is possible you will need SERVPRO’s professional pumping equipment to get the water out.

Keep in mind any water that has come up through the drains is dirty. Even if appears clear it contains potentially dangerous microbes and pathogens. Do not let children, pets, elderly or those with health issues into the water. Healthy adults who must enter the water should wear proper protective gear including rubber boots, gloves, and a mask or respirator.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn / Dearborn Heights SE
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn / Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Winter Storm Damage

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

A tree fell on and damaged this Livonia, Michigan garage. Our crew tarped the roof until repairs could be made.

Southeast Michigan has crazy weather all year long, but winter storms are particularly dangerous. Even without heavy, wet snow we can experience especially damaging storms. With so many mature trees in the area, wind felled trees are not uncommon in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights.

SERVPRO of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE is always ready to help if a tree falls on your structure. Whether it is your home, garage, shed, or commercial building we have a crew ready to secure your property. We can board up windows, tarp roofs, and padlock doors. During the rough Detroit winters we will winterize the property if it not inhabitable during the repairs.

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn/Dearborn Heights SE provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

What To Do If You Suspect Mold

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Mold inside walls

Mold in your office or home is alarming. If you see mold or even suspect you may have mold, SERVPRO of Dearborn can help.

An Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional will inspect your property. Using an array of testing devices, they collect air and surface samples to compare the indoor mold spore count with the outdoor environment to determine whether mold is present and what type of mold it is. Once the specifics are known, our production crews use specialized training, equipment and techniques to remediate the mold in your commercial or residential building.

If you have concerns or questions about mold in your home or office, SERVPRO of Dearborn is happy to assist you in locating a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional. Simply call our office at 313-359-4357 to schedule a preliminary inspection.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Sewage Risks

11/1/2018 (Permalink)

Sewage back ups are common in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights

Dearborn homes often experience sewer back ups. Sewage in your home isn’t just gross it is potentially dangerous. It contains bacteria and viruses, many of which can cause disease. Many people underestimate the seriousness of these hazards. Those especially at risk of exposure are the very young, elderly, and anyone with a compromised immune system or respiratory problems.

Some important facts to remember if you encounter a sewage back up:

• Sewage contains a variety of disease causing pathogens including bacteria, viruses and parasites.
• It is not safe to stay in a building flooded unless the contaminated area can be completely sealed off and airflow controlled to prevent particles from spreading.
• Sewage exposure is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, including anyone less two or greater than sixty years of age, pregnant, ill, recovering from surgery, on certain medications or chemotherapy.
• Highly absorbent materials, such as carpet and its padding, upholstery, wicker, paper or fabrics that can't be washed in hot water for at least 10 minutes, should be properly disposed.
• Sewage saturated building materials like drywall and insulation most also be removed.

There is a high degree of risk when working with sewage. Special precautions must be taken when handling damaged materials and while cleaning. Let the professionally trained and equipped crews at SERVPRO of Dearborn dry and sanitize your home or office. In addition to equipment, skills and training, our crew is up to date on vaccinations including Hepatitis B, which is often spread in sewage. Do not risk your health or that of a loved one. Call us to help. We are always available.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Minimizing Storm Damage

10/18/2018 (Permalink)

Roof tarping is the first step in repairing storm damage

The Dearborn and greater metro Detroit area may not need to worry about hurricanes and landslides, but we do get severe weather. Damaging storms are especially common at the change of seasons. Whether storm damage affects your residential or commercial property, SERVPRO of Dearborn is here to help you keep your structure safe. It is vital to secure your damaged property quickly to prevent any further damage. Our board up and roof tarping services are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. We are locally owned and operated so we can respond to your call anytime. We work directly with your insurance company to ease your troubles.

If any type of wind or severe storm damage affects your home or business SERVPRO of Dearborn is always at the ready.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Cigarette Dangers in Home

10/17/2018 (Permalink)

Cigarette are a leading cause of house fires.

One of the most common causes of house fires is reportedly the improper handling of cigarettes.

Forgotten and smoldering cigarettes cause a hazard and can create significant fire damage. Here are various ways to prevent a cigarette fire from occurring in your residence.

• Smoke outdoors. If you have the option of smoking outdoors, this can be the best method for preventing fire and odor build up inside of your home. Keep any ashtrays away from the residence

• Teach your children to stay away from any cigarettes. Kids are naturally curious about fire. Be certain to store cigarettes, matches, and lighters out of their reach.

• Don’t smoke in area with highly flammable materials. Upholstered furniture, drapery, and mattresses are incredibly flammable. Avoiding smoking in these areas is an excellent preventative measure.

•Use stable ashtrays and fill them with sand. Never use an ashtray that is might tip over or fall easily. This can cause fire hazards. Make sure every butt is fully extinguished.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Board Up Service

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Secure your property with our board up services./

Board-ups are not just for hurricanes! There are many reasons you may need a board up or a roof tarp to protect your property. SERVPRO of Dearborn will board-up your building whether the damage was caused by fire, wind, vandalism, animal infestation or even if vehicle hits your structure – we did this for a beloved Downtown East Dearborn business! Proper board-ups secure your property from looting or vandalism. They also protect your property from any weather-related damage. Most insurance policies require homeowners or property managers to protect against secondary damage; not securing the property can result in a claim being denied. We can also provide fencing to secure your property and protect people who may enter the area.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Commercial Cleanup Services

7/28/2018 (Permalink)

Our fleet arrives at a hotel fire in Metro Detroit.

Commercial Property Damage

Property damage can happen anywhere.  Fires, floods, storm damage, or other types of damage can impact businesses and commercial property just as they effect homes. SERVPRO of Dearborn regularly responds to water and fire damage in commercial buildings and businesses of all sizes. When commercial buildings experience damage, it is imperative to get the situation corrected immediately before it starts affecting the bottom line. Even a minor business interruption can have a large impact on production, employees and the local economy. SERVPRO of Dearborn will get you back to business quickly.

We are experienced in commercial projects in the Dearborn, Dearborn Heights and the surrounding metro Detroit area including:

• Schools and Universities
• Medical and Assisted Living Facilities
• Manufacturing Operations and Warehouses
• Hotel and Banquet Facilities
• Commercial Office Buildings
• Houses of Worship
• Municipal Buildings

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Outdoor Grill Safety

7/27/2018 (Permalink)

Alarming statistics. Don't be a statistic.

Dearborn, Michigan offers a lot of great food. You can always smell someone grilling something delicious.

Keep your family safe while grilling by following these simple guidelines.

General grilling tips:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors and outside of the garage.
• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill.
• Keep grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and trays below grill.
• Never leave your grill unattended.

Before you use your propane grill:

• Check the connection points between the propane tank hose, the regulator, cylinder, and where the hose connects to the burners. Tighten if loose.
• Check the tank hose for the potential leaks. To do that:
• Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
• Turn the propane tank on. If there is a gas leak, the propane will release bubbles around the hose (big enough to see).
• If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
• If there are bubbles, turn off the tank then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the leak doesn’t stop, call the fire department immediately.

When the grill is on:

• As you are cooking, if you smell gas, turn off the gas tank and burners.
• If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
• If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the fire department immediately. Do not move the grill.

Charcoal grills:

• Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as a fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire.
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources.
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Fireworks and House Fires

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Photo property and courtesy of Ian Kushnir, Doubledeuce Fireimages; Dearborn, MI

Dearborn, Michigan has strict firework regulations for good reason. In 2013, the most recent data available from National Fire Protection Association, fireworks caused an estimated 15,600 reported fires in the U.S., including 1,400 structure fires, 200 vehicle fires, and 14,000 outdoor and other fires. Nearly half (47%) of all reported fires on the Fourth of July are started by fireworks.

In Dearborn residents are allowed to use legal consumer fireworks only on the day of, day prior and day after certain recognized holidays. July 4, 2018 is a recognized holiday. Certain rules must be followed including:

• Minors may not use fireworks
• Fireworks may not be used on public property or private property of another person unless express permission is obtained.
• Individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol may not use fireworks.
• No person is permitted to use consumer fireworks on the day before, the day of or the day after a recognized holiday between the hours of 12 midnight and 8 AM.
• The right to discharge fireworks ends at the individual’s property line.

Please be considerate of your neighbors when using any fireworks. Always think safety first, take precautions to avoid injuries, fires or damage to property.

The Fire Cleanup Process

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Photo property and courtesy of Ian Kushnir, Doubledeuce Fireimages, Dearborn, MI

If you have a fire, you will have a flood – from the water firefighters use to put out the blaze. One of the many problems facing homeowners after a fire is dealing with the addition water damage. If you experience a house fire, consider the following tips from SERVPRO of Dearborn, your locally owned and operated fire cleanup and restoration team.

1. Contact Your Insurance Company
Immediately after a fire, contact your insurance provider to see what, if any, of the damage the company will cover. If your policy covers fire damage, your agent will guide you through the necessary forms and file your claim.

2. Call a Fire Restoration Team
Resist the urge to do your own clean up; it is extremely difficult and can be dangerous. Fire and water damage, combined with firefighter “overhaul” (opening walls, pulling out cabinetry, breaking ceiling, etc. while looking for embers and hot spots) likely made your home’s structure weak. Additionally, even objects which appear to have cooled may still be smoldering and pose a danger. It is best to have a team of fire restoration professionals handle the debris.

3. Clean Up Debris
Your fire restoration team will begin the cleanup process by removing debris and items that can not be saved. What can be saved is itemized and taken to our warehouse for cleaning and storage. Our team then cleans the structure using special chemicals and techniques. Once this is done, the team will deodorize and sanitize the home.

4. Restore Your Home
Once the home is clean and dry, your fire restoration team starts restoring your home to its pre-fire condition. This portion of the process takes a great deal of time and effort. However, when we do our job correctly, you won’t know we were there.

If your Dearborn area home experiences a fire, help is just a phone call away. 313-359-4357

Visit SERVPRO of Dearborn for more information on what to do in the event of a fire.

Springtime Rain in Dearborn

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Spring and summer in Dearborn can be rainy.

Springtime in Dearborn, Michigan can be a wild ride. When warm, moist air and cool, dry air collide, it brings thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes and flooding. If not properly prepared, any of these can cause extensive damage to your home or business.

Here are 5 ways to prepare your property for storms. These tips can save you hundreds, even thousands, of dollars in damage.

1. Clean your gutters. Clear debris from your gutters so the rain can easily flow off your roof away from your home. Water which can not pass through gutters, pools on your roof and around the foundation.
2. Back up your sump pump. Sump pumps can get overloaded in heavy rain. Make sure your sump pump has a battery backup just in case the electricity goes out. You might also consider installing a second, battery operated pump that will come on if the main one fails.
3. Trim your trees. Falling trees can cause some of the worst storm damage. Trees with dead limbs or disproportionate growth can fall in high winds. Dearborn neighborhoods have a lot of mature trees. Maintaining trees protects you, your property and the trees.
4. Grade your yard. Water pooling around your home jeopardizes your foundation. Ensuring that your yard slopes away from your home will keep rainwater from sitting by your foundation. Most lawn companies offer this service.
5. Gather emergency supplies. American Red Cross recommends keeping a three-day supply of food and water for your family, and a seven-day supply of any medications. Your emergency kit should also include a battery operated radio and a car adapter for your cell phone.

Do you have water problems ? Call SERVPRO of Dearborn for help – (313) 359-3457

FEMA Mobile App

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Download this free app today!

It may not feel like it, but spring has officially sprung! With the beauty of a Michigan spring comes severe weather.

SERVPRO of Dearborn relies on the FEMA app for accurate weather reports and alerts. This free cell phone app is available for both iOS and Android devices. It is loaded with features to help keep you safe in any kind of weather or disaster.

The app helps you prepare should a disaster strike the Metro Detroit area. It provides emergency safety tips, checklists for building an emergency kit and allows you to set up an emergency meeting place with your loved ones. The Emergency Safety Tips feature even gives instructions for what to do before, during and after any conceivable emergency including biohazard, chemical spills and explosions. In the event of an emergency, the app has features allowing you to apply for assistance online and find a shelter in the Dearborn area.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation and cleanup service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Biohazard Cleaning

3/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn can handle any biohazard removal in the Metro Detroit area.

When an event leaving behind biohazardous materials occurs, you can count on SERVPRO of Dearborn for cleanup. A biohazard is any biologic matter causing risk to human health. Blood, bodily fluids, and biohazards can endanger anyone who comes in contact with them. With appropriate safety equipment and procedures, cleaning biohazards is SERVPRO of Dearborn’s specialty.

Why Choose a Trained Professional?

• Cleaning biohazards can be unsettling. They are often present after a traumatic event. A SERVPRO professional will clean the situation quickly, compassionately and discreetly.
• Federal regulations classify all human and animal remains, including blood, urine, feces, vomit and bodily fluids, as biohazards. They may carry potentially life-threatening pathogens such as Hepatitis B and C, AIDS, HIV, MRSA, and many more.
• The safe removal of biohazardous materials involves state-of-the-art cleaning technologies. Federal Regulation 29cfr1910.1030 states that no employee can be placed in a position to be exposed to biohazard cleanup without first:

1. Receiving Blood Borne Pathogen (BBP) training.
2. Having a written BBP exposure control plan.
3. Being provided personal protective equipment.
4. Been offered a Hepatitis B vaccine and exposure evaluation and follow-up.
5. Being provided a method to remove and properly store the bio-hazardous waste in properly marked containers for disposal at an approved site.
   Source: osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/

Common Biohazard Scenarios

1. Sewage backups
2. Human Blood, Blood Products, Bodily Fluids
3. Animal Waste
4. Microbiological and Pathological Waste
5. Medical Sharps Waste

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service to Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Melvindale and the greater Metro Detroit area. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, biohazard and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Water Categories

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

All water is not created equal

Water is categorized into three levels.

Category 1, often called clean water, is water which does not pose substantial harm to humans
Category 2, often called gray water is water has a significant level of contamination
Category 3, often called black water, is water is grossly contaminated

As a general rule of thumb, Category 1 water is clean water from leaking pipes or appliances. It is a nuisance, but rarely harmful. When addressed quickly, the carpets and other floors may suffer very little impact.

When clean water is left standing, runs through structural elements, or flows over and/or through debris, it becomes Category 2 water. This water has potential to be dangerous to humans and animals. Special precautions are required to clean this.

Category 3 water has the highest level of contamination. It is grossly unsanitary and can cause severe health effects. This is water which has come from flooded streams or rivers, sewer back ups, or overflowing toilets. Stagnant water supporting any sort of bacterial growth is also considered black water.

SERVPRO of Dearborn has the expertise to mitigate any type of water in your home or business regardless of its category. Our staff is accredited by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), which sets the standards for the cleaning industry and water damage restoration training.

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, mold, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Commercial Kitchen

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

Our equipment staging area for a nearly 3,000 square foot commercial kitchen in Dearborn, Michigan.

SERVPRO of Dearborn provides an array of services to many commercial buildings like schools, churches, and retail spaces in the Metro Detroit area. In commercial kitchens, special care is taken to keep the food prep areas clean and sanitary. Our highly trained crew uses specialized equipment and food safe products to clean and sanitize restaurant kitchens and ventilation systems. We also provide services to keep the customer facing areas clean.

A high volume kitchen with years of build up is hazardous for both employees and customers. Of special concern are commercial kitchens with multiple fryers or small kitchens where staff works in close quarters. Even with proper ventilation systems, grease builds up over time posing safety and health risks. We professionally clean commercial kitchens in order to lower and prevent:

• Risk of Fire
• Unpleasant Odors
• Vermin and Pest Infestation
• Environmental Concerns
• Plumbing Issues
• Employee Injury and Illness
• Lowered Food Quality

Keeping commercial kitchens safe and sanitary is a top priority for restaurant managers and owners. SERVPRO of Dearborn is proud to help keep Dearborn area restaurants clean and open for business. Call us today to have your commercial kitchen assessed! 313-359-4357

Mold in New vs. Old Dearborn Homes

2/9/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn loves the beauty of our historic neighborhoods.

Dearborn, Michigan has a variety of home sizes, styles and ages. The gracious homes of Ford Historic District keep our history alive while new construction shows the prosperity of our area. SERVPRO of Dearborn is proud to serve our entire community.

There is an interesting phenomenon in old homes versus newer construction. We tend to see more mold in newer construction. There is a long chain of events that simply explain this. in the 1950s builders left plaster and lath behind for drywall. Then switched from solid lumber to composite materials.  The 1950s and 60s brought homeowners air conditioning. As homes became more comfortable they became less efficient. During the 1970s energy crisis, energy efficiency building design changed to reduce energy consumption.  This new “tight” construction reduced air flow, which resulted in reduced drying ability of commercial buildings or homes. During the early part of the 1980s, energy efficient structures become the new standard. However, by the late 80s, new health issues were linked to these new “tight” construction techniques. The reduced airflow and drying ability lead to more mold in buildings.

Whether your building is new or old, mold is a concern. SERVPRO of Dearborn has the experience to mitigate any mold concerns while respecting your structure’s unique history. Drywall or lath and plaster, we have a team of skilled technicians to address the unique qualities of your home.

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, mold, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Winter Storms

1/25/2018 (Permalink)

Winter storm damage is no match for SERVPRO of Dearborn

Southeast Michigan weather can cause severe damage to homes or businesses. Immediate action is needed when weather disasters strike. SERVPRO of Dearborn has the expertise and resources to mitigate damage caused by any winter weather. 

Frozen Pipes
Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Of particular concern are pipes in areas with outdoor exposure or in unheated/partially heated areas like basements, crawl spaces and garages. The damage from broken pipes can be quite extensive.

Ice Dams
Ice dams formed when snow melts then refreezes at the edge of the roof near the eaves. The trapped water can back up under shingles and leak into homes. This can cause significant water damage rafters, ceilings and walls.

Roof Damage
Quickly rising and falling temperatures happen often in the Dearborn area. Sudden thaws can cause water to get trapped in cracks and small spaces. When the temperatures drop, the trapped water freezes and expands causing larger cracks and greater damage.

Why Choose a SERVPRO of Dearborn? 

• We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.
  SERVPRO of Dearborn is dedicated to responding immediately to water emergencies. A fast response lessens damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost. 

• We're Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists.
  SERVPRO of Dearborn specializes in water damage restoration. All our responding technicians are certified in Water Damage Restoration and Applied Structural Drying techniques.

Whatever winter storm befalls the Metro Detroit area, SERVPRO of Dearborn is just a phone call away.

About Us
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, wind and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Addressing Mold

1/22/2018 (Permalink)

Mold remediation is best left to the professionals.

Some mold jobs must be referred to an industrial hygienist, a scientist trained in microbial growth detection and identification. According to the American Industrial Hygienist Association, industrial hygiene is “a science…devoted to the anticipation, recognition, evaluation, prevention, and control of those environmental factors…which may cause sickness...or significant discomfort."

The “typical” mold remediation process is

1. Customers who suspect mold should contact SERVPRO of Dearborn (313) 359-4357
2. Inspection and mold assessment by a hygienist
3. SERVPRO of Dearborn will contain the affected area and begin air filtration
4. Remove mold and mold contaminated items
5. Cleaning contents and belongings
6. Restoration

If you suspect mold in your home or office, contact us immediately. We will refer you to a trusted industrial hygienist colleague.

About Us
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Emergency Ready Profile Will Help in a Disaster

1/19/2018 (Permalink)

Photo property and courtesy of Ian Kushnir; Doubledeuce Fireimages; Dearborn, Michigan.

Up to 50 percent of businesses that suffer a disaster may never reopen. Of those that do survive, the majority had an emergency readiness plan in place before disaster strikes. SERVPRO of Dearborn offers Emergency READY Profile to help prepare your business for the unthinkable.

The ERP offers:
• A no cost assessment of your facility
• A concise profile of critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information

Preparation is key to minimizing disasters. Whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood, having a plan can minimize the time your business is closed and get you back to work after a disaster.

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, wind and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Do and Don't of Mold

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

Proper mold remediation is a complicated operation

If you see mold in your mold or office, do not disturb the area. Touching the mold or moving things in the area can inadvertently spread the mold infestation. When disturbed, mold can release microscopic spores, which may become airborne and circulate inside your home or office.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans
• Contact SERVPRO of Dearborn for mold remediation services

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. Our crews are highly trained mold remediation professionals using specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

About Us
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, wind, and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Water Cleanup Process

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

Just one example of our various water extraction machines

Water damage is caused by many different sources, with varying degrees of potential danger and damage. With so many different materials and surfaces in any house, many homeowners wonder how SERVPRO^® of Dearborn handles a large water damage cleanup. Our technicians are trained in controlling and repairing water damage in Dearborn area homes.
 
Identifying the Source and Water Type
The first step is properly identifying the water type and its source. Determining whether it is came from a storm, flood, sewer back up or burst pipe is important. Whatever the source, it must be stopped before we can begin working to restore the property. Depending on the source of the water, it is categorized as clean, gray, or black. Each type has its own unique safety and cleanup protocol.
 
Surveying Damage and Mold
Once we understand what type of water and its damage we have, our technicians search the home with moisture detection equipment to find out what has been affected. Additionally, we look for signs of mold growth to determine which issue is the most pressing.
 
Furniture and Water Removal
The next step is removing the furniture from affected areas, and pumping out water if necessary. Our industrial-grade machinery pumps water from the home with either a portable or a truck-mounted pump.
 
Drying and Odor Treatments
Once the water is removed we bring in commercial drying and deodorizing equipment. This ensures the affected area is dry thus preventing new mold growth and eliminating odors. Any affected furniture and household items like clothing is typically cleaned and dried at our facility. We can also store your items until all the repairs and renovations are complete.

Carpet Removal and Final Cleaning
If possible we try to save the carpet. In some fortunate cases we are able to dry, clean and sanitize the carpet and padding. In other cases, part or all of the carpeting in the affected area will need replacing. We will remove and dispose of any damaged carpet and padding. The removal of this allows us to be certain the sub-floor and wall bases are also dry and sanitized. Once your floor is resurfaced as you wish, we will return any of your items we may have stored for you.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from fire, water, soot, smoke, wind and storm damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Water in Commercial Buildings

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn has specialized equipment for commercial buildings

Work Place Water Damage is Restored by SERVPRO

Water damage in commercial buildings is a surprisingly frequent occurrence. Some of the most common causes of water damage to commercial buildings are as follows:
 
1. Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
Sprinkler systems work in concert with fire protection systems. While sprinklers are crucial during a fire emergency, they can also cause significant flood damage if they malfunction.

2. Damaged appliances and equipment
If your business has any type of equipment which uses water, you may be at risk for water damage. When appliances fails, water will travel unimpeded around your building. If this happens outside your regular business hours, you could have a substantial amount of water by the time you reopen.
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing
Plumbing in a commercial building is used far more frequently than residential systems. This extra stress can cause the system to fail much sooner than private systems.
 
4. Backed up sewer lines
Commercial sewer line are susceptible to back ups just like residential lines. Should the sewer line to your building back up, realize there are potential dangers in the water coming into your space. Regardless of the color and clarity of the water, any water coming through the sewer line is dirty and is a biohazard.

SERVPRO of Dearborn has specially trained staff and industrial equipment to clean, sanitizer and deodorize any water damage in your commercial building of any size. We are always here to help.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire and smoke damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Freezing Weather and Your Home

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

A small steady drip can keep your pipes from freezing.

Metro Detroit’s freezing temperatures show no sign of relenting. SERVPRO of Dearborn has some tips to help homeowners and businesses stave off the damaging effects of this historic weather front. Frozen and ruptured pipes can be avoided with a little forethought.

• Turn both hot and cold taps on just enough to keep them slowly dripping.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm room air to circulate around the pipes.
• Disconnect all hoses from outside spigots. If possible, shut off valves to these spigots.
• Keep your home’s temperatures above 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Show everyone in your home how to operate the main water shutoff valve in case of emergency.
• If you rent a home or business space, have contact information for your maintenance department.
• Keep the fireplace flue closed when not in use. Be certain it is open before using the fireplace.
• If you leave your home for even a few days, have neighbor check on your place. Broke pipes cause can cause catastrophic flooding and mold damage in a few hours.
• Check your gutters and downspouts for ice dams.

One final but important tip, be sure to walk around your home checking the gutters and downspouts for ice damns. An ice dam forms when heated air melts snow on the roof. The melt runs downward until it becomes trapped behind still-frozen ice near the gutters. When the trapped water cannot run into the gutter system, it can back up under the shingles and into the structure causing water and structural damage, as well as potential mold growth.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire and smoke damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Water Emergencies Great and Less

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

We are always available for your emergency

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today – 313-359-4357 

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Dearborn

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

Flooding in a Commercial building

11/28/2017 (Permalink)

Hotels are just one examples of business which cannot close even during an emergency.

Trust SERVPRO of Dearborn to Get Your Business Open After Flooding

A water loss in a commercial building cannot wait for clean up. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Dearborn has the equipment, training and experience to eliminate the effects of any plumbing failure and keep the doors open.

Commercial carpets are typically much easier to dry that residential carpet as they do not have a pad underneath and rest on a concrete floor. Also the service areas tend to be larger and more accessible. These factors make drying less complicated than a residential water loss. Although each case is unique, the typical process is as follows...

SERVPRO of Dearborn technicians use extraction wands to remove water from the floor. Depending on the size of the area, we use either hand-held wands, similar to wet/dry vacuum found in most home workshops or a much larger device a team member stands on to drive across the room. We can extract several large rooms in just a matter of hours. 

Technicians then set up dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air. They also strategically place units to draw out water absorbed into the walls. Each of our machines can remove over 25 gallons per day.
 
To aid the dehumidifiers, we set up fans to draw in warm, dry air replacing the cold, damp air. To dry the structure, technicians install air movers which blow heated air into walls and ceilings to expedite drying.
 
Flooding does not mean shutting down a business for weeks or even days. SERVPRO of Dearborn can help you reopen your doors quickly. If you need our services, call today at (313) 359-4357.

Got Mold?

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

A qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional tests mold in a residence.

Mold can be confusing and frightening. If you see or suspect mold in your home or office, SERVPRO of Dearborn can help. Our specially trained SERVPRO technicians will inspect your property and determine how much area is affected. If more than 10 square foot of mold is found in your space, an Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional will assess and identify the mold, then set the protocol for remediation in your space.

Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professionals use specialized skills and training to evaluate the quality of the air inside structures and test for the presence of mold. Using an array of testing devices, they collect air and surface samples to compare the indoor mold spore count to the outdoor environment. If you have concerns or questions about mold in your home or office, SERVPRO of Dearborn is happy to assist you in locating a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional.

Our technicians care about proper restoration of your property. In many water damage situations, excessive mold growth is not a problem and we can safely restore your building to pre loss condition. 

If you suspect mold, call SERVPRO of Dearborn at 313-359-4357. We will make your water damage "Like it never even happened." 

Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries

10/27/2017 (Permalink)

Change your clock, change your battery!

In just a few days, we will “fall back” as Daylight Saving Time ends 2 a.m., Sunday, November 5. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends testing your smoke alarms and checking the batteries at the same time. Approximately two-thirds of home fire deaths happen in homes with no alarms or alarms that didn’t function due to missing, disconnected or dead batteries.

NFPA, an international organization whose mission is to "reduce the burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life", offers the following guidelines for smoke alarms:

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when tested.
• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (long-life) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, a warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
• For smoke alarms with any other type of battery, replace batteries at least once a year. If the alarm chirps, replace only the battery.

Fire Prevention Week October 8-14

10/5/2017 (Permalink)

Sparky the Fire Dog helps kids practice a safe escape!

Sunday, October 8, marks the start of the 2017 Fire Prevention Week. This year's National Fire Protection Association theme is "Every Second Counts:Plan 2 Ways Out!"

NFPA suggests families plan two ways to exit every  room in your house, especially kids' bedrooms. They suggest:

• Draw a map of your home marking two exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit
• Practice your home fire drill twice a year. Conduct one at night and one during the day with everyone in your home, and practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Make sure the number of your home is clearly marked and easy for the fire department to find.
• Close doors behind you as you leave – this may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.
• Once you get outside, stay outside. Never go back inside a burning building.

Click HERE for a link to the NFPA website for more valuable safety information.

Two Simple Steps Before Fall Arrives

9/18/2017 (Permalink)

Keeping gutters clear can prevent water damage to your home

The cool, crisp days of fall are upon Dearborn; winter’s snow and ice are not far behind. There are two important steps you should take to prepare your home for the upcoming seasons.

1. Inspect your roof
   Are you certain your roof can handle the heavy rains, snow and ice Dearborn winters bring? Before the weather turns, take a look at your roof for missing or damaged shingles, weak spots, or other indications of trouble. If anything looks suspicious, contact a professional roofer for a thorough inspection and repair estimate.
2. Clean your gutters
   Falling leaves can slow the flow of water in your gutters. Enough of them can even block the gutters completely. To prevent clogs and subsequent water damage to your home, clear your gutters and drainpipes. Be certain to clear the areas in front of the drainpipe outlet too. Remember to keep checking the gutters as more leaves fall. Outside water damage, especially damage caused by lack of maintenance, may not be covered by your insurance.

These two easy steps can prevent big problems in the fall and winter seasons.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn
SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire and smoke damage. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 response team is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

The Importance of a Home Inventory List

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

Can you name every item in your house?

Imagine having your home and its contents lost to a fire. Could you recall every item in it? Could you remember each individual item, especially the stored away, rarely used ones? Most of us would have great difficulty doing this on any given day, let alone under the stress of a catastrophe.

In the event of a fire, your insurance company will ask you to provide a list of all your damaged personal property. Creating a comprehensive Home Contents Inventory assures all of your contents are documented. Including each item’s value, photograph and, when possible, receipt, helps your insurance company make an accurate assessment for replacement and/or restoration according to your insurance policy. Be sure to update this list annually as you add or get rid of items. The completed list should be stored in a fireproof box or in your safe deposit box. It is also a good idea to file the list with your insurance agent.

Contact our office at 313-359-4357 to get a blank Home Contents Inventory or to schedule an appointment to have our pros to do it for you.

Summer Storm Damage

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

Summer storms sneak up on us in Dearborn.

The dog days of summer are upon Dearborn, Michigan. The hot days and cool evenings often create sudden, violent summer storms. A little planning can go a very long way toward keeping your family safe. A fully stocked and accessible Emergency Supply Kit will make any disaster a little easier. Keep in mind, depending on the severity of the storm, it may take days for help to arrive. The America Red Cross recommends stocking a 3-day supply of essentials.

Recommended Items to Include in an Emergency Supply Kit:

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and can opener
• Battery-powered or hand crank NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Prescriptions, contact lens, glasses and hearing aids w extra batteries
• Copies of personal documents including medication lists, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates and insurance policies
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust masks to filter dirty air
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Tool kit and work gloves
• Local maps
• Phone chargers with car adapters
• Extra car and house keys
• Matches
• Pet supplies

If you suffer storm damage to your home or commercial property, SERVPRO of Dearborn will take immediate action to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms.

We are always available at 313-359-4357.

For a complete list of our services visit us at www.SERVPROdearbornmi.com

Hoarding Clean Up

7/20/2017 (Permalink)

Hoarding poses serious health and safety risks.

Compulsive hoarders struggle to discard possessions because of a perceived need to save them. Their hoarding disorder causes them to accumulate an excessive amount of things regardless of any actual value. While these cluttered, unhealthy living spaces can cause distress or problems with daily activities, there is another threat to hoarders’ well being.

People living in excessive accumulation are in physical danger. Hoarding increases the fire load of any structure. Item stored too closely to cooking and heating units can easily ignite. Piles of flammable materials can spill onto hot surfaces. The lack of household maintenance can hide worn, frayed or pest damaged wires creating electrical dangers. Open flames from smoking materials or candles also pose risks. Clutter blocking pathways and exits can hinder escaping a fire.

Excessive collecting also puts first responders at risk. The National Fire Protection Association says the primary concern of fire service is the “chaotic nature” of hoarder dwellings because blocked windows and exits “make fire attack and rescue difficult.” Clutter makes it difficult for them to move through the structure. First responders can also become disoriented, trapped or injured by obstructed exits and falling objects. Finally, the tremendous weight of the clutter coupled with the weight of water and other suppression agents used to extinguish the fire, can cause a building to collapse.

Hoarding is a serious condition and should be addressed by a qualified mental health professional. However, there are ways to help a loved one:

• Help them make a home safety and escape plan
• Practice the plan often; remember escape routes will change as new items come in
• Install working smoke alarms and test them monthly
• Alert your fire and police departments of the conditions of your loved ones home

Once the home is emptied it will need thorough cleaning, sanitation and deodorization. Mold, mild and other types of biological contamination will likely be present. SERVPRO of Dearborn has experience in cleaning hoarding situations and dealing with the complicated situation at the heart of the matter.

For a free, no cost assessment for all of your cleaning needs call us at 313-359-4357 or visit our website.

Source:NFPA

Commercial Cleaning Services

7/3/2017 (Permalink)

Our crews are ready to roll for any type of disaster.

SERVPRO of Dearborn knows the appearance of your commercial property speaks volumes to your clients. Our services go far beyond emergency clean up. Whether you need floors and carpets deep cleaned, odors removed or construction clean up, you can depend on a SERVPRO of Dearborn. Our highly trained crews use state of the art equipment to make your business shine again. We are experienced in many types of workplaces including:

• Retail Facilities
• Education Facilities
• Property Management
• Healthcare Facilities
• Hospitality Facilities
• Food Service Facilities

Learn more about our Commercial Cleaning Services at by calling 313-359-4357 or visit our website at http://www.SERVPROdearbornmi.com/commercial-cleaning

Emergency Readiness Planning

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Steps to preparedness

Less than 50% of businesses reopen after damage to a company’s facilities. It is much easier to prepare for an emergency than to repair damages. More importantly, how quickly your business returns to normal operations depends on emergency planning. SERVPRO of Dearborn can create an Emergency Readiness Profile for your business.

Creating and committing to an emergency plan will help your employees, customers, and community. Emergency planning protects your business by giving your company and its facility a better chance of surviving a crisis. 

Be informed:
Know which types of emergencies are most likely to impact your business and develop a plan to deal with each them.

Develop a Business Continuity Plan:
Determine which staff, procedures, and equipment are critical to keeping your operation functional. Create a procedure for what to do if utilities are disrupted or your facility is not accessible. Make a back up plan for every scenario.

Make Your Emergency Plan:
Emergency plans should include evacuation and  shelter in place policies. Develop a communications procedure for before, during and after any possible incident. Practice and review all procedures at least once a year.

Review Your Insurance Coverage
Know exactly what coverage you have. Review your policy annually with your agent to confirm the losses you are most likely to experience are covered. Keep in mind, as you add equipment, software, furniture and business goods, your coverage should change.

Let SERVPRO of Dearborn prepare your business for anything with a FREE Emergency Readiness Profile.

Contact us today at 313-359-3457.

Smoke alarms save lives

5/30/2017 (Permalink)

Checking and changing smoke alarm batteries regularly saves lives.

Fast facts about fire

House fires

• In 2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 367,500 house fires. These fires caused 2,745 deaths, 11,825 civilian injuries, and $6.8 billion in direct damage.
• On average, seven people die in U.S. house fires per day.
• One quarter of house fires that started in the bedroom caused deaths.
• Three out of five house fire deaths happen in houses with no working smoke alarms.
• Cooking equipment is the leading cause of house fire injuries, followed by heating equipment.
• Smoking materials are the leading cause of house fire deaths.
• During 2009-2013, roughly one of every 335 households had a reported house fire per year.

Smoke alarms

• Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in reported house fires in half.
• In fires large enough to activate the smoke alarm, hardwired alarms operated 94% of the time, while battery powered alarms operated 80% of the time.
• When smoke alarms fail to operate, it is usually because batteries are missing, disconnected, or dead.
• Ionization smoke alarms are generally more responsive to flaming fires and photoelectric smoke alarms are generally more responsive to smoldering fires. For the best protection, or where extra time is needed to awaken or assist others, a combination of ionization and photoelectric alarms are recommended. 

Source:

http://www.nfpa.org/public-education/campaigns/fire-prevention-week/fast-facts-about-fire

Fire Restoration Process

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

Dearborn homes can be restored after a fire.

What exactly happens after you have a fire at your house or commercial property? SERVPRO of Dearborn’s Fire Restoration Process has a comprehensive plan to get you back in your home or business.

Step 1: Emergency Contact
Begin the process begins by calling SERVPRO of Dearborn at 313-359-4357. Disasters don’t keep regular business hours; neither do we. We are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Step 2: Inspection & Assessment
Our professionals carefully inspect your home or business to produce an accurate report of fire, smoke, and soot damage.

Step 3: Board-Up & Tarp Service(s)
Since fire and its suppression can compromise windows, walls and roofs, we offer board-up services to protect your home from the elements, theft and vandalism.

Step 4: Water Removal & Drying
It is very likely there will be water is present in your home or business after a fire. We remove any standing water with a combination of extraction, dehumidification and air moving.

Step 5: Remove Smoke & Soot from ALL Surfaces
SERVPRO of Dearborn’s processes remove soot and smoke from your home or business’ ceilings, floors and wall. We can even remove soot and smoke from restorable upholstery and textiles.

Step 6: Cleaning & Sanitizing
We clean and sanitize the entire structure to remove offensive odors.

Step 7: Complete Restoration
Our job is done when your house or business is back to its pre-fire condition.

If you experience fire, smoke or soot damage, SERVPRO of Dearborn is just a phone call away.

(313) 359-3457

Our IICRC Certified Specialist Can Restore Your Dearborn Home

4/24/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn is an IICRC certified company.

SERVPRO of Dearborn is an IICRC certified firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry. They also provide training and certification to restoration companies. Only firms which have completed the rigorous training and testing have the right to display the IICRC Certified logo.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These 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.

The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science. Professional standards must evolve to keep pace. The IICRC reviews and updates the standards every five years.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all requisite tests.
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on 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.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 service is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Our Certifications:

• IICRC Certified Firm
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• MWR – Master Water Restorer
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation

Where is the office water shut off valve?

4/10/2017 (Permalink)

An Emergency Ready Profile helps your company prepare for the unexpected.

Do you know how to shut off the water at work?

Most of us know how to shut off the water in our homes, but not many of us know how to do it at work. Many workplaces rely on the facilities department or maintenance crew when something goes wrong. If a problem pops up when they are unavailable, does your staff know what to do?

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn will help you prepare for a disaster at your commercial property with our no cost Emergency Ready Profile. This comprehensive action plan shows employees exactly what to do in the event of an emergency. Available as a mobile phone app, companies can allow access to any employee they choose. The plan is also available in a printed format, which can be kept in a designated place for easy access. We recommend incorporating accessing this information into your company’s training procedures. Clearly defined emergency procedures can help minimize the damage and cost of any sort of unplanned situation including fire, flood, storm damage, and vandalism.

Is your business ready for a disaster? With a SERVPRO^® Emergency Ready Profile you will provide resources for your employees and provide critical property details. This no cost service is available to commercial properties in Dearborn, Dearborn Heights and the surrounding areas. Make your appointment today!

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 service is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Historic Wind Storm in Dearborn

3/19/2017 (Permalink)

Dearborn lost many of its beautiful trees during the March wind storm.

Tropical storm force winds whipped through Dearborn in early March leaving a wake of destruction and days-long power outages. Spring storms can cause tremendous harm to your Dearborn and Dearborn Heights property. Heavy winds and rain can cause roofs and walls to collapse, damage windows, even fell trees and power lines creating fire hazards. Heavy rain can cause storm drains to fail, backing up water into homes. Excess moisture soaking into furniture, carpeting, and building materials creates ideal conditions for mold growth, which can cause health problems. 

Having a plan before the storm will help you manage after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions
Familiarize yourself with the placement and function of all mechanicals in your home – furnace, hot water heater, air conditioner, etc. Know how to turn them on and off. Keep your insurance and identification papers in a secure, waterproof place. A copy of your photo ID should be included with this, as you may need it to access other documents, bank accounts or insurance benefits. Create a system to notify all members of your household of emergencies and have a designated meeting place.

After the Storm
If you smell gas, immediately leave the area and call your gas company from a remote location. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Trees and building materials may continue to fall well after the storm has passed. Do not attempt to move branches or debris, there may be unseen power lines electrifying them.

Contact SERVPRO^® of Dearborn to help secure your property and make it safe for your family’s use. Unscrupulous companies have been known to take advantage after mass damage. Be sure to check the credentials of anyone you hire.

Photograph the Damage
If it is safe to be in and around your property, photograph the damage so you have a record for your insurance company. This will make the claim process easy and help ensure correct compensation.

Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage. This helps facilitates restoration of your property. Your adjuster and restoration company will develop a plan to get you back in your home as quickly as possible.

Look Into Federal Disaster Assistance
Depending on the magnitude of the storm, the federal government may declare the affected area a disaster. This action may make you eligible for low-cost loans or reimbursement to help restore your property. The cities of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, as well as Wayne County, have resources to help facilitate this.

SERVPRO^® of Dearborn provides 24-hour disaster mitigation service. We specialize in the restoration of homes and businesses suffering losses from water, flood, wind, storm, fire damage, and smoke disaster. Our locally owned and operated 24/7 service is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Specialty Cleaning Services

2/21/2017 (Permalink)

After police process a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin

Bio-hazard, Vandalism & Crime Scene

SERVPRO of Dearborn is equipped to handle any type of loss. When police finish processing a crime or accident scene, the cleaning and restoration process can begin. Many times, these scenes have blood and other biohazard contaminants, which pose a serious health risk. The professionals at SERVPRO of Dearborn will respond immediately with the specialized training to safely clean trauma and crime scenes.

Our technicians follow OSHA and EPA protocols to transform an unsafe environment back into a clean, safe home or business. Their first focus is always safety, since crime or accident scenes may involve blood borne pathogens, harmful chemicals, and other dangers.

Common Trauma and Crime Scene Scenarios

• Blood borne Pathogens
• SERVPRO of Dearborn removes and disposes of bodily fluids, tissue and other potential pathogenic substances resulting from accident, trauma, crime or death. Technicians thoroughly clean, disinfect and deodorize the structure.
• Crime Scene Residues
• From fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals to tear gas and pepper spray residues, SERVPRO of Dearborn can clean and restore your property and contents.
• Arson & Vandalism
• SERVPRO of Dearborn is recognized as leaders at helping property owners recover quickly from fire and water damage. We also provide general cleaning and deodorization services for situations resulting from vandalism including graffiti, egg, spoiled foods and human or animal waste.
• Methamphetamine Labs
• Many of the chemicals used in the production of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine are volatile and can leave harmful residues throughout a structure. SERVPRO of Dearborn follows federal and state guidelines to properly clean all surfaces.

Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO of Dearborn is always just a phone call away. 313-359-4357

Ice Dams are Common in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights

1/19/2017 (Permalink)

A visual aid for understanding ice dams.

Ice dams are sneaky. Unless you are a frequent visitor to your Dearborn or Dearborn Heights attic you may not even know they are forming on your home. Temperatures above freezing in your attic will likely cause snow on the roof to melt. The melted snow refreezes when it reaches the colder eaves causing it to form a dam behind which water pools. The pooling water can back up under your roofing, leaking into your attic and along the interior walls causing wood rot and mold growth.

Mold is a great concern with ice dams. Preventing ice dams from forming can keep your family safe from potentially dangerous mold growth and costly repairs.

Prevention

Here are a few simple steps that can help prevent ice dams and condensation in your attic:

• Always discharge bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans, and dryer vents, outside. Never into the attic. Even a properly ventilated attic cannot tolerate an exhaust fan pumping warm moist air directly into it.
• Proper attic ventilation is key to keeping the attic cool, while adequate insulation is key to keeping your house warm. Keep soffit vents free from obstructions to allow the cool outside air into the attic space to replace the warmer attic air that flows outside ridge and roof vents. This air exchange will keep the attic cool and free of moisture build-up.
• Consult a professional for the best way to avoid ice dams and water damage in your home.

Does and Don’ts

• Be certain vents are not blocked by attic insulation nor covered by any finishes outside the home.
• Verify all openings, access panels, and electrical fixtures are properly sealed and insulated while maintaining manufacturer’s required clearances.
• Check all exhaust fans and dryer vents are discharging outside.
• Keep gutters clear of debris.
• Do not “chip away” the ice of an ice dam. This can lead to shingle damage.
• Do not install mechanical equipment or water heaters in attics. This is a fire hazard and will increase the temperature in your attic.
• Do not use salt or calcium chloride to melt snow on a roof. These corrosive chemicals can damage metal gutters, downspouts, and flashing as well as nearby grass and plants.

If an ice dam forms on your house, consult a roofing professional. If you suspect mold has grown anywhere in you home, call your neighbors at SERVPRO^® of Dearborn. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to help restore the cleanliness and safety of your house.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

1/5/2017 (Permalink)

Frozen and broken pipes can be prevented.

Winter has arrived! Don't let the cold impact your home’s plumbing.

Pipes freeze due to a one or a combination of three reasons:
1) sudden drops in temperature
2) poor insulation
3) thermostats set too low.

A 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can spew up to 250 gallons of water a day, causing flooding, serious structural damage, and the immediate potential for mold. This disaster can be prevented by taking a few simple steps.

Before The Cold

• Insulate your home's pipes. Exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember: The more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.
• Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes, and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• Be certain to disconnect garden hoses. If possible, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.

During The Cold

Damage is still possible even if you’ve taken preventative steps. Here are a few more steps you can take:

• Let warm water drip overnight, preferably from a faucet on an outside wall.
• Keep your thermostat set at the same temperature during day and night. Turning the thermostat down raises the risk of pipe freezing in the overnight cold.
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to un-insulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

If You Are Lucky Enough to Leave The Cold

• Set the thermostat no lower than 55°F.
• Ask a friend to check on your house daily.
• If possible, shut off and drain the water system. Please be aware if you have a fire suppression sprinkler system in your home, this may deactivate the system.

If Your Pipes Freeze

Don’t panic. Frozen pipes don’t necessarily mean broken pipes.

• Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. It is a fire hazard.
• If no water comes out of your taps, leave the faucets in the on position and call a licensed plumber.
• If your water pipes have already burst, turn off the water at the main shutoff valve in the house, but leave the water faucets turned on.
• Call SERVPRO^® of Dearborn

Our locally owned and operated 24/7 service is just a phone call away. 313-359-3457

Faster to your Dearborn and Dearborn Heights Water Damage Event

9/20/2016 (Permalink)

Second story water leaks can cause damage on every floor of your home or office.

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (313) 359-4357

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 Dearborn

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

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damages at Dearborn commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a 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 while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of Dearborn

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

Dearborn's 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

Flooded freeway at the Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Allen Park border.

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today – 313-359-4357 

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Dearborn

SERVPRO of Dearborn specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after 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 staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Dearborn Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/25/2016 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage can cause a pervasive odor in your Dearborn home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate any crevice or  cavity in your home causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

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

Different Types of Smoke

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

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

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

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures. This type of smoke rises.

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

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

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a solution tailored for the specific conditions.  Using the wrong cleaning method can result in further damage. We have the expertise, experience and equipment to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 313-359-4357

Does Your Dearborn House or Business Have a Mold Problem?

8/24/2016 (Permalink)

In Dearborn, mold can spread throughout your home in as little as 48 hours.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere outdoors and indoors. This means it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. However, mold remediation reduces mold spore counts back to its natural or baseline level.

Consider the following mold facts:

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 313-359-4357

When Storms and Floods Hit Dearborn, SERVPRO is ready!

8/24/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Dearborn.

SERVPRO of Dearborn specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our highly trained crews use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to quickly respond to any time of disaster. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage and reduces overall restoration costs.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

Dearborn and the nearby area floods frequently. When storms and flooding hit our region, we can scale our resources to handle any type of weather disaster. We can access equipment and highly qualified personnel from a network of 1,650 franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 313-359-4357

Our Restoration Specialist Can Restore Your Dearborn Home

8/24/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Dearborn is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies.

The IICRC establishes industry standards 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.

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.

About SERVPRO of Dearborn

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

Pool Safety

6/22/2016 (Permalink)

Summer is in full swing which means time at the pool. Dearborn Heights Fire Chief Dave Brogan's office provided some tips for keeping you and your guests safe around the pool.

Pool Area:

• Secure pool area with a 4 foot high barrier including a self closing and self latching gate.
• Keep a cover on the pool when not in use.
• Consider installing a pool alarm.
• Supervise kids at all times
• Designate a person to watch the water when people are in the pool.
• Never swim alone.
• Inexperinced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets.
• Establish and enforce safety policies in the pool area.

Pool Chemicals:

• Add chemicals to water; never add water to chemicals.
• Use proper safety gear including goggles and gloves when handling chemicals.
• Store chemicals in a well ventilated area.
• Do not store flammable materils near gas powered equipment.

MOST IMPORTANT:

Everyone in a home with a pool should know how to respond to a emergency including:

• How to use safety equipment
• Succesfully complete water safety training courses
• First aid
• CPR courses from the Red Cross

Have a safe and fantastic summer!

Dearborn's Frequent Flooding Issue

5/18/2016 (Permalink)

Flooded basement, Dearborn, Michigan

The mighty Rouge River makes Dearborn and its surrounding communities beautiful. On occasion it’s a little too much of a good thing; when the Rouge floods, so do many of our basements. SERVPRO of Dearborn is a trusted leader in the cleanup and restoration industry. Our highly skilled technicians using specialized equipment can handle any size flood. Locally owned and operated, we provide 24-hour emergency service and are committed to immediate response to your residential and commercial needs.

For a complete list of our services visit:
http://www.SERVPROdearbornmi.com/

Call Us Today (313) 359-4357

Commercial Fire Damage

5/16/2016 (Permalink)

Document drying is just one of our fire restoration services

Coping with the aftermath of a commercial building fire is stressful for all business owners. Property and equipment damage, document loss, and temporary closures are just a few of the issues facing owners after a fire. While the first instinct is to clean up and get back to daily operations, returning to normalcy is a very complex and involved process. SERVPRO of Dearborn helps businesses get back to day to day operations by efficiently cleaning affected structures and fire damaged items.

Our fire cleaning services include:

• Structure cleaning including soot removal and deodorization
• Pack out, cleaning and storage of contents until fire clean up is completed
• Cleaning walls, ceilings, floors, fixtures, air ducts and all hard/soft surfaces
• Inventory and cleaning of contents and electronics
• Document drying

For a complete list of SERVPRO of Dearborn’s service, please visit our website at http://www.SERVPROdearbornmi.com/ or call our office (313) 359-4357.

Be Prepared For Summer Storms

5/11/2016 (Permalink)

Summer storm damage can be catastrophic

Michigan is notorious for sudden, violent spring and summer storms. You can be one step ahead of Mother Nature with a well-stocked Emergency Supply Kit. Your kit should be assembled and easily accessible in the event of an emergency or evacuation.

The America Red Cross recommends stocking a 3-day supply of essentials. Keep in mind it may take that long for help to arrive.

Recommended Items to Include in an Emergency Supply Kit:

If you suffer storm damage to your home or property, SERVPRO of Dearborn will take immediate action to minimize secondary damages caused by severe storms. We are always available at 313-359-4357.

Saving our Rouge River Watershed

4/25/2016 (Permalink)

Michigan offers a wealth of natural resources for our enjoyment, none more enjoyable than our water. Dearborn is particularly fortunate to be part of the Rouge River Watershed. Friends of the Rouge, a Dearborn based organization promoting stewardship of the Rouge River ecosystem, provided some easy ways we can all help the watershed.

• If you must use fertilizer, use a slow release formula.

• Be sure to keep fertilizer off paved surfaces and out of drainage paths.

• Don’t dump chemicals, paints, oils into storm drains.

• Repair vehicles in areas where leaks and spills cannot flow into storm drains.

• Clean up animal waste before it rains.

• Don’t use your hose as broom. Sweep debris off your paved areas.

• Visit www.therouge.org for more information on watershed conservation.