Earthquake Risks in Utah

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

Prepare for storms to ensure your property is safe.

Amidst Utah's stunning landscapes lies an often-unnoticed reality: the state's susceptibility to earthquakes. While less frequent than other natural disasters, earthquakes can pose a significant threat to homes and properties. Gaining an understanding of the earthquake risk in Utah is vital for homeowners and property owners to prepare, safeguard their loved ones, and protect their investments. In this blog, we'll explore the earthquake risk factors specific to Utah and provide practical insights for proactive earthquake readiness.

Embracing Utah's Seismic Reality

Utah, nestled within the Intermountain West, experiences its share of seismic activity due to the complex interplay of tectonic forces. The Wasatch Fault, running through the state, is a notable seismic feature. Although not situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire like the traditional "Northwest," Utah's unique geological context still poses earthquake risks.

The Path to Preparedness

Awareness is the foundation of preparedness. Homeowners and property owners in Utah should comprehend the potential repercussions of a significant earthquake, such as structural damage, power interruptions, and water disruptions. Taking preventative steps can substantially reduce these risks.

Strengthening Structures

Numerous homes in Utah were built before modern seismic building standards were established. Retrofitting these structures to withstand earthquakes is pivotal. Engage a structural engineer to identify areas of improvement and fortify weak points in your home's design.

Emergency Plans and Kits

Earthquakes can disrupt essential services and resource access. Construct an earthquake emergency kit with necessities like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and first-aid supplies. Establish a family emergency plan that details evacuation routes, rendezvous points, and contact information.

Securing Possessions and Furniture

Unsecured furniture and belongings can become hazards during an earthquake. Fasten heavy furniture, bookshelves, and electronics to prevent toppling. Utilize wall-mounted brackets and furniture straps to secure items in place.

Staying Informed

Stay on top of earthquake alerts, forecasts, and readiness resources through local emergency agencies, the Utah Geological Survey, and relevant mobile apps. Early warning systems offer crucial seconds to minutes of advance notice before shaking commences.

While the earthquake risk in Utah may not be a daily concern, acknowledging and preparing for it are fundamental to ensuring the safety of homeowners and property owners. Utah's seismic landscape, especially the Wasatch Fault, underscores the need for proactive measures. Strengthening structures, crafting emergency plans and kits, safeguarding belongings, and staying informed are integral facets of earthquake preparedness. By embracing these measures, homeowners and property owners can better shield their investments and safeguard their families when facing the potential impact of seismic events.

Content Cleaning and Fire Damage: How to Restore Your Home and Belongings

8/9/2023 (Permalink)

Content cleaning is a priority to salvage your belongings after a fire loss.

A fire can cause significant damage to your home and belongings, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to move forward. Content cleaning and restoration services can help you salvage and recover your possessions that may have been damaged by smoke, soot, or water. In this blog post, we'll explore how content cleaning can assist you in restoring your home and belongings after a fire.

Understanding Fire Damage

Fire damage can involve a variety of harmful effects, including smoke, soot, and water damage. Smoke and soot can permeate every surface in your home, leaving behind unpleasant odors, discoloration, and corrosion. Additionally, the water used to extinguish the fire can cause secondary damage, such as mold growth and further structural damage.

Steps to Content Cleaning and Restoration

Content cleaning and restoration specialists can work with you to evaluate the damage and develop a plan to restore your home and belongings. The process typically involves several steps:

Step 1: Assessment and Documentation

The first step in content cleaning and restoration is to assess the damage and document the items that have been affected. Specialists may use advanced equipment to determine the extent of the damage and take inventory of the items that need to be restored.

Step 2: Packing and Transporting

Once the assessment is complete, the specialists will carefully pack and transport all affected items to a secure cleaning and restoration facility. This process involves special handling techniques to minimize further damage during transport.

Step 3: Content Cleaning

At the cleaning facility, technicians will use specialized equipment and techniques to clean and restore your belongings. This process can involve dry cleaning for textiles, ultrasonic cleaning for non-porous items, and specialized processes for electronics, documents, and furniture.

Step 4: Storage and Return

After content cleaning is complete, technicians will carefully wrap and store your belongings until they are ready to be returned to your home. The process also includes re-packaging and transporting the items back to the home and carefully unpacking them.

Benefits of Content Cleaning and Restoration

Content cleaning and restoration can provide several benefits to homeowners following fire damage:

Salvaging Belongings

Content cleaning and restoration services can help you recover items that may have otherwise been lost due to fire damage. By salvaging items that have sentimental or financial value, you can lessen the impact of the fire damage

Reducing Replacement Costs

By restoring your belongings instead of replacing them, you can save money on the replacement costs of your personal items.

Time Effect

Choosing content cleaning and restoration for your fire-damaged belongings is time-efficient and helps to ensure the job is done correctly, leaving you free to attend to other essential matters post-fire.

A fire can be a traumatic experience, but with the help of a content cleaning and restoration service, you can begin to recover and restore your home and belongings. Restoration professionals can work with you to develop a customized plan for content cleaning and restoration, providing you with the peace of mind that your belongings are in capable hands. By salvaging your items, you can save money, preserve irreplaceable sentimental items, and help alleviate some of the stress and worry that come with a fire-damaged home.

How to Take Care of Pipe Breaks: Essential Steps for Damage Control

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with a pipe break and water damage requires professional assistance.

Dealing with a pipe break in your home or business can be a stressful and potentially damaging situation. A burst or leaking pipe can lead to water damage, property loss, and disruption of daily activities. Knowing how to take immediate action is crucial to minimize the impact of a pipe break and prevent further damage. In this blog, we will outline essential steps to help you take care of pipe breaks effectively.

Shut off the Water

The first and most crucial step when dealing with a pipe break is to shut off the water supply. Locate the main water shut-off valve, typically found near the water meter or where the main water line enters the building. Turn the valve clockwise to stop the flow of water and prevent additional flooding.

Assess the Damage

Once the water supply is shut off, assess the extent of the damage caused by the pipe break. Check for standing water, visible leaks, and any signs of structural damage. Document the damage by taking photographs or videos for insurance purposes.

Drain the Pipes

To minimize further water damage, drain the remaining water from the pipes. Open all faucets and flush toilets to empty the water lines. This step helps alleviate pressure within the system and reduces the risk of additional leaks or bursts.

Remove Excess Water

Using mops, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum, remove standing water from affected areas. Promptly drying out the space helps prevent mold growth, water damage to flooring or walls, and potential structural issues.

Call a Professional

Contact a licensed plumber or restoration professional to assess the pipe break, repair or replace the damaged pipe, and address any related issues. Experienced professionals have the expertise and tools to handle pipe repairs efficiently and effectively.

Mitigate Water Damage

Take steps to mitigate water damage while waiting for professional assistance. Use fans or dehumidifiers to promote airflow and accelerate the drying process. Remove wet materials, such as carpets or furniture, to prevent further damage and potential mold growth.

Document and Notify

Document all damage, including photographs, videos, and written descriptions, to support insurance claims. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process and follow their instructions for filing a claim.

Preventive Measures

After the pipe break is resolved, consider taking preventive measures to avoid future incidents. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in areas prone to freezing temperatures, and consider installing water leak detection devices to provide early warning of potential leaks.

Dealing with a pipe break requires swift and decisive action to minimize water damage and protect your property. By shutting off the water supply, assessing the damage, draining the pipes, removing excess water, and contacting professionals for repairs, you can effectively manage a pipe break situation. Prompt action, documentation, and insurance claim filing are crucial for a smooth recovery process. Remember to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of future pipe breaks and ensure the long-term integrity of your plumbing system.

6 Essential Tips for Protecting Your Building from Flood Damage

6/10/2023 (Permalink)

Protecting your building from flood is important to ensure your building is safe.

Floods can happen unexpectedly and cause significant damage to your building. Not only can they damage your property, but they can also disrupt your daily operations, leading to lost revenue and productivity. That's why it's important to take steps to protect your building from flood damage. In this blog post, we'll discuss some tips on how to protect your building from flood damage.

Conduct a Flood Risk Assessment

Before taking any preventative measures, it's important to understand the flood risk of your building. A flood risk assessment can help identify areas of your building that are at risk of flooding. This can include low-lying areas, basements, and areas near rivers or other bodies of water. Understanding the flood risk of your building can help you develop a flood protection plan that is tailored to your specific needs.

Install Flood Barriers

Flood barriers are a great way to prevent flood water from entering your building. These barriers can be made from a variety of materials, including sandbags, plastic sheeting, and flood panels. The type of flood barrier you choose will depend on the size of your building and the level of flood risk. For maximum protection, consider installing permanent flood barriers that can be easily deployed in the event of a flood.

Seal Your Building

Sealing your building can help prevent water from seeping in through cracks and gaps. This can be done by sealing doors and windows with waterproof sealant and installing weather stripping around the perimeter of the building. You should also consider installing backflow prevention devices on your plumbing to prevent sewage backup in the event of a flood.

Elevate Critical Equipment

Elevating critical equipment, such as HVAC units and electrical panels, can help prevent damage in the event of a flood. These items should be located on higher floors or elevated platforms to protect them from floodwater.

Install Sump Pumps

Sump pumps are designed to remove water from basements and other low-lying areas of your building. They are a great way to prevent water from accumulating and causing damage. Be sure to have your sump pumps inspected regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.

Develop a Flood Plan

Having a flood plan in place can help minimize damage in the event of a flood. Your flood plan should include evacuation routes, emergency contact information, and a plan for shutting off utilities. Be sure to communicate your flood plan to all employees and have regular practice drills.

In conclusion, protecting your building from flood damage requires a combination of preventative measures and planning. Conducting a flood risk assessment, installing flood barriers, sealing your building, elevating critical equipment, installing sump pumps, and developing a floodplain are all important steps in protecting your building from flood damage. By taking these steps, you can minimize damage and ensure that your business operations are not disrupted in the event of a flood.

SERVPRO'S 2023 Firefighter Challenge is in July!

6/6/2023 (Permalink)

Support your local first responders this July during the SERVPRO Firefighters Challenge at Murray Park!

Who will bring the Best of Utah 2023 trophy back to their station this year? We'll find out on July 19-22nd, when Utah's best firefighters will bring the heat at this year's SERVPRO Firefighter Challenge! It’s going to be an exciting and unforgettable event  as we cheer on our brave firefighters in the Firefighter West Region Challenge at Murray Park. 

As a title sponsor of the event, SERVPRO corporate and many SERVPRO’s in Utah came together to sponsor a Make-A-Wish child and grant them their wish! The Make-A-Wish Foundation is the beneficiary for the Firefighter Challenge. As part of the sponsoring SERVPRO's, SERVPRO of St. George is excited to celebrate our local first responders! 

During this event, firefighters from all over Utah will display true bravery and teamwork in the SERVPRO Firefighter Challenge. This challenge includes a set of obstacles specifically made for firefighters. These firefighters wear their full protective gear, use their tools and compete to be the quickest and most thorough firefighters in Utah! Come witness their determination and courage as they battle for the trophy. 

We are currently preparing for the event and looking for volunteers to help make this weekend a success! Click the link here to register: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/9040e4aada922aa8-SERVPRO#/

We can’t wait to come together to support and honor local heroes as we cheer them on to victory! 

Does Renters Insurance Cover Mold Damage? Everything You Need to Know

5/17/2023 (Permalink)

File a claim immediately to ensure your mold damage is covered by insurance.

As a renter, you may wonder if your renters insurance covers mold damage. Mold is a common problem that can occur in homes and apartments, and it can cause significant damage to your personal belongings and the property itself. In this blog post, we will explore whether renters insurance covers mold damage, what types of mold damage are covered, and how to file a claim for mold damage.

Does renters insurance cover mold damage?

In general, most renters insurance policies do not cover mold damage. However, there are some exceptions. Some policies may cover mold damage if it is a result of a covered peril, such as water damage from a burst pipe or a natural disaster. It's important to review your policy carefully to understand what types of mold damage are covered and what types of damage are excluded.

Types of mold damage covered by renters insurance

If your renters insurance policy does cover mold damage, it will typically only cover certain types of mold damage. For example, if the mold damage is a result of a covered peril, such as water damage from a burst pipe, then the mold damage may be covered. Additionally, if the mold damage is a result of a sudden and accidental event, such as a roof leak or a plumbing problem, then it may be covered.

Types of mold damage not covered by renters insurance

Most renters insurance policies do not cover mold damage that is a result of long-term neglect or lack of maintenance. For example, if you fail to report a leaky faucet or a roof leak, and the mold damage results from this negligence, then it is unlikely that your renters insurance policy will cover the damage. Additionally, if the mold damage is a result of a flood, it may not be covered unless you have separate flood insurance.

How to file a claim for mold damage

If you experience mold damage and believe that it is covered by your renters insurance policy, it's important to file a claim as soon as possible. Here are the steps you should take:

• Contact your insurance company: Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the mold damage.
• Document the damage: Take photos and videos of the mold damage, as well as any other damage that may be related to the mold.
• Provide proof of ownership: Provide your insurance company with a list of your damaged property and proof of ownership, such as receipts or photos.
• Cooperate with the investigation: Your insurance company may send an adjuster to investigate the mold damage. Cooperate with the investigation and provide any information or documentation requested.
• Follow up on the claim: Keep track of the status of your claim and follow up with your insurance company as needed.

Understanding Renters Insurance Coverage for Mold Damage

In conclusion, renters insurance policies typically do not cover mold damage, but there may be exceptions. It's important to review your policy carefully and understand what types of mold damage are covered and what types of damage are excluded. If you experience mold damage, it's important to file a claim as soon as possible and provide all necessary documentation to support your claim. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your mold damage claim is processed quickly and efficiently.

Fire Safety: Immediate Steps to take after a fire

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Fire safety is important, incase of a fire, know the steps to take after a fire.

Fire safety is a serious concern. Fires can be frightening, and they can also cause damage to your building that can make it unsafe or uninhabitable. If you've experienced a fire in your building, you may want to take steps to ensure that it doesn't happen again.

In this guide we'll talk about some of the dangers of fires (and how they can impact you), what to do if there's been a fire in your building, and how to keep yourself safe from future fires by making sure all of the proper precautions are taken by everyone involved with maintaining the structure itself--from contractors who work on renovations or repairs through tenants who use space within each floor plan unit itself.

Immediate Steps After a Fire

• Call the fire department and report the blaze.
• Contact your insurance company to file a claim and get help with cleanup.
• Contact a fire damage restoration service to begin repairing damages caused by smoke, heat and water infiltration.

Assessing the Damage

After a fire, it's important to assess the damage and make sure your building is safe. Here are some tips for assessing structural damage:

• Look for buckling or sagging floors and walls. If you see any of these signs, call an engineer to come inspect your building.
• Check for water damage by looking at baseboards and other areas where water could have seeped in through cracks in windows or doors.

Repairing the Damage

After the fire, you will need to hire a fire damage restoration company to repair your building. The experts can replace damaged building materials and repair electrical and plumbing systems so they are safe for use again.

The best way to prevent this type of damage is by having regular inspections performed on your property by professionals who know what they are looking for when it comes to potential hazards like electrical issues or faulty wiring in a room where flammable liquids are stored.

Preventing Future Fires

• Install smoke detectors. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that you install at least one smoke detector on every floor of your home, including the basement and attic. If you have an older home with no existing wiring for electric or battery-operated detectors, consider installing hardwired versions instead.
• Consider installing fire extinguishers in key locations throughout your building. While it's important to have a fire extinguisher handy in case of an emergency, they're also useful tools for preventing fires from starting in the first place: if someone accidentally leaves a candle burning unattended or forgets about a pot on the stovetop, having an extinguisher nearby can help prevent serious damage from occurring before anyone notices there's been an accident at all!

Protecting against Natural Disaster

• Secure the building's roof.
• Reinforce the building's foundation.
• Install storm shutters or other protective measures to keep out wind and rain damage, as well as debris that could cause injury if it were to fly through your windows during a storm or hurricane.

Conclusion

Secure the building to prevent future fires. Follow safety practices to keep your employees and customers safe, including using fire extinguishers to put out small fires before they spread to other areas of the building. Making sure that all electrical wiring is up to code and in good condition so it can't cause an electrical fire or malfunction that could lead to a fire (such as overheating). Ensuring that there are no combustible materials near heating units or other sources of heat, such as stoves or ovens--and if there are, removing them immediately!

How do you keep pipes from freezing?

3/15/2023 (Permalink)

You can take preventative measures to keep pipes from breaking.

Frozen pipes can cause damage to your home, and they can also lead to expensive repairs. The best way to prevent frozen pipes is to take precautions during winter months. You may not be able to prevent all freezing, but you can minimize damage.

Take precautions during winter months.

Taking precautions during the winter months can help reduce pipe breaks when the weather starts to warm up. Keeping all unneeded rooms doors closed to keep rooms warm.

Don't leave faucets running for long periods of time--even if you're not using much water at all! Running water causes excess condensation that can freeze inside pipes and cause them to burst when temperatures drop overnight or during cold snaps in springtime.

Avoid using heating pads on pipes--they're notorious for causing damage! If you must use one around your plumbing system, make sure it's only on low settings so as not to overheat anything near where they're located. Also keep an eye out for signs of melting plastic or rubber seals around where these devices are placed because they could leak into other areas nearby if left unattended long enough.

Insulate pipes and keep wrapped in foam or other insulating material.

Use a heat tape to keep pipes warm, especially if you don't have central heating. The best way to do this is to wrap the tape around your main water pipe line, which runs through the basement and into your home's walls or crawlspace. Heat tapes can be purchased online or at hardware stores, but installation requires some DIY skills and may require hiring an electrician if you're unsure of what you're getting into.

Use a thermostat-controlled switch to turn off power when temperatures drop below freezing outside so that no heat is wasted inside your home on non-essential items such as lights, televisions and computers and thus lessening their impact on heating costs.

Turn down the heat thermostat on your water heater

Turn down the heat thermostat on your water heater so it will not be as cold when it is turned on. This can help reduce the chance that water in pipes will freeze and burst.

How do you turn down a thermostat? If your water heater has an adjustable dial, turn it to a lower setting (between 120 degrees F and 125 degrees F). If not, contact a professional plumber who can adjust or replace the unit with one that has an adjustable thermostat control. If your existing unit is already frozen, call SERVPRO for your emergency plumbing service immediately.

You can take steps to prevent frozen pipes and minimize damage if they do freeze. The best way to prevent frozen pipes is by taking precautions during winter months. You may not be able to prevent all freezing, but you can minimize damage by following these steps. Give SERVPRO of St. George a call today!

Do I Need A Sump Pump?

2/13/2023 (Permalink)

A sump pump is a device that uses water pressure to remove excess liquid from the bottom of a basement or crawl space.

Sump pumps are a common sight in basements and crawl spaces, but you may not realize what they do or why you need one. A sump pump is a device that uses water pressure to remove excess liquid from the bottom of a basement or crawl space. This prevents flooding by pushing water back up through drainage pipes, preventing it from pooling in your foundation and causing damage to your property.

Sump pumps prevent water damage in your basement

Sump pumps are a common device found in basements. They remove water from the basement and keep it dry. Sump pits are holes in the ground or pavement of your property, which is typically designed to collect rainwater runoff and prevent it from seeping into your home. When sump pumps are installed, they draw this water out of the basement and drain it into an outside drain system or stormwater drainage system.

Sump pumps should be replaced if they fail to work properly, if they are not regularly maintained or cleaned out (if necessary), or if there has been any physical damage sustained during the installation or operation of your sump pump system.

Most basements will need a sump pump

Most basement owners will find that they need a sump pump. With that said, it's not a given that every basement will require one. A sump pump is helpful in preventing water damage and mold growth in your home. However, it isn't always necessary if you have an exterior drainage system.

Sump pumps can be expensive and difficult to install, especially for the DIYer who doesn't have much experience working with electrical systems or plumbing. It is always best to rely on a professional when it comes to sump pump installation and maintenance.

How long do sump pumps last?

The life of a sump pump depends on the type of pump and how it is used. The average lifespan of a sump pump is roughly ten years, though they may last longer if they are properly maintained.

Sump pump maintenance tips

Sump pump maintenance is often overlooked, but it can prolong the lifespan of your sump pump. Proper maintenance should be performed at least every 3 months:

• Clean the sump pump screen every 3 months.
• Remove any debris caught in the sump pit and ensure that you don’t have any rust or corrosion on it; replace it if necessary.
• Remove the sump pump from the pit once a year a perform a thorough cleaning.

Sump pumps can save you a lot of time and money by keeping water out of your basement. The best part is that they don't require much maintenance so it's easy to keep them working properly! If your sump pump fails and it results in water damage on your property, don't hesitate and give our SERVPRO of St. George team a call today!

Everything You Need to Know About Smoke Damage

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

This guide will help you recognize the signs of smoke damage, understand how it affects your property, and learn what steps to take.

Smoke damage can be a serious problem. It's often more extensive than you think, and it can happen to even the best-protected homes. This guide will help you recognize the signs of smoke damage, understand how it affects your property, and learn what steps to take after suffering from smoke damage.

Smoke damage can be obvious or subtle.

Smoke damage can be obvious or subtle. The lingering smell of smoke is often the first sign, but sometimes there are no smells at all—the damage tends to occur behind the scenes. Smoke from cooking accidents and cigarettes can cause significant damage too, so even if you don't smell anything out of the ordinary, it's important to check for signs of smoke damage in your home or office space. 

Smoke-damaged property may have any number of telltale signs:

• A coating on the walls and ceiling that resembles white paint
• Discoloration on walls, ceilings, and furnishings
• Soot webs on the ceilings and walls

Understanding smoke damage.

Smoke damage is perhaps one of the most difficult types of damage to deal with, and can cause your property to be unsaleable if not handled properly. Not only does smoke damage need special attention in order to get rid of it, but even after cleaning it may still be present in some form. 

If a fire has caused smoke damage to your property, it's time for some remediation. Smoke and soot are extremely corrosive to many surfaces, including wood, drywall, carpet, and fabric. In addition to discoloring walls and floors, smoke can also leave behind an unpleasant odor that can permeate the air for months after the fire is extinguished. Although you may be tempted to just cover up the smell with perfumes or room sprays, they won't be nearly as effective as professional cleaning services—and they'll only mask the problem temporarily at best.

Smoke odors are extremely stubborn and tend to linger for months or even years after a fire has occurred. In addition, smoke can cause permanent discoloration along surfaces such as walls and ceilings that will require repainting or covering up with new drywall. 

It is dangerous to clean up from a fire without professional help.

It's important to understand that if you attempt to clean up from a fire without professional help, you can be exposed to harmful chemicals and toxins. You may be injured by sharp objects that have been burned and are now sharp, such as glass or metal. You could even be exposed to asbestos, lead or mold if the material was present in the home before the fire occurred.

Do not try to clean up after a fire yourself, call your local SERVPRO experts for assistance today!

Smoke damage can be a big problem, with serious consequences for your home and family. If you've found yourself facing this problem, don't panic! It's important to remember that there are resources out there for people who have encountered smoke damage in their homes. Our SERVPRO of St. George team is always on standby and ready to respond to your fire, smoke, and soot damage!