Recent Commercial Posts
Can Your Business Trust the Farmer’s Almanac?
4/29/2022 (Permalink)
As a business owner, you know the importance of trust and authority when it comes to connecting with your customers and nurturing meaningful professional relationships.
So, with regards to timeless publications, like the Farmers’ Almanac or Old Farmer’s Almanac, should you pay any attention to either relative to decisions about your commercial property?
The short answer is yes, especially when it comes to sound seasonal advice and weather predictions.
But first, what’s the difference between the two?
Published in 1792, the Old Farmer’s Almanac is published out of Lewiston, Maine, while the Farmers’ Almanac began in 1818 in Dublin, NH, with a reported shared accuracy rating between 80-85 percent.
While our SERVPRO team appreciates timeless New England traditions like either version of these almanacs, we also are committed to providing our customers with the cutting-edge tools they need to stay ahead of storm events.
That’s why we’re so pleased to present our Emergency Readiness Profile, which is a free resource that allows access in a single space to all of your commercial property’s critical contact information and shut off locations.
By all means, keep a copy of the Farmers’ Almanac or Old Farmer’s Almanac handy, but supplement your version with SERVPRO’s solution in order to stay ahead of storm damage and avoid the need for storm remediation.
Contact us to learn more about how to put the Emergency Readiness Profile to work for your commercial property!
Does Your Business Need a Custom Weather Forecast?
4/1/2022 (Permalink)
As a commercial property owner, you’re probably constantly fielding calls and emails about the latest product or service your company “needs.” At SERVPRO, we’re not interested in selling you something you don’t need; however, we do suggest that you take advantage of our Emergency Readiness Profile. This free tool gives you access to all of your pertinent contact information and shut off locations -- in one handy spot!
If weather makes a big difference to your business day, you could also check out the Enterprise Resources from the National Weather Service, which includes solutions around General Weather, Marine and Tropical, Aviation, Winter, and Hydrology.
You can even opt to create a custom weather forecast for a specific event or location, if you don’t need daily updates. This option might be ideal if you have multiple locations across the country and need to keep up to speed on seasonal storm events, like tornadoes or hurricanes.
At SERVPRO, we believe in staying ahead of storms and other inclement weather events as much as possible in order to mitigate storm damage or any serious need for storm remediation.
That said, we are standing by with our professional storm clean up services, should you need them! Simply contact us to get started!
How to Protect Your Commercial Property from Hail
2/25/2022 (Permalink)
In case being a commercial property owner didn’t come with enough stress, add hail protection to your list. Given its rather erratic nature, hail can be tough to predict, which makes protecting your property even trickier.
However, there are a few tried and true strategies worth considering, which should help mitigate the amount of storm damage your property could incur from our next Nor’Easter.
A Top-Down Hail Defense Strategy
The following tips all concern the top of your commercial property; in other words, the roof. According to DisasterSafety.org, at the very least, a thorough roof inspection is critical in order to determine its overall condition and whether it needs to be replaced.
Once satisfied with the roof’s condition, the next order of business is to outfit it with equipment designed to withstand impact, like hailstones. This could include installing hail guards or wires around your rooftop HVAC system and investing in impact-rated skylights and solar panels.
Whether your preparation failed or you failed to prepare, SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield has the expertise and commercial solutions to save the day. Contact us for all your commercial property clean up and restoration needs.
Commercial Property Insurance: Your First Line of Defense Against Fire
2/25/2022 (Permalink)
Kind of like talking about life insurance, no commercial property owner really wants to think about what might happen to their business in the event of a fire.
Of course, failing to plan means planning to fail, which is why our SERVPRO team knows that keeping your commercial property insurance current is so critical.
Aside from potential loss of life or limb, the risk that a fire poses to the structure of your commercial property is immense. It’s not just the damage created by the fire itself, or the water damage that results from fighting it; think of the hit your business could take just by being closed for an unexpected and possibly extended period of time.
Planning for a fire on your property is really the only way to go, especially when you consider that approximately 10 percent of small business owners found themselves forced to file an insurance claim for fire in the last five years alone.
And while the expense resulting from fire restoration services varies, depending on the amount of damage and the actual insurance policy, the average totaled $35,000.
We’re fairly certain you can think of a better way to spend (or save) that money. Even so, as author Maggi Myers cautions, “The best plans have a way of falling apart without warning.” In that case, you’ve got SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield ready to leap into action.
No matter the element -- fire, water, storm, wind, contact us when your commercial property needs professional restoration.
Fortify Your Commercial Property Against Frightful Weather
12/27/2021 (Permalink)
No matter how mild the weather was leading up to Thanksgiving, we New Englanders have every confidence that cold weather is on its way. For those of us who own commercial property, it’s smart to stay ahead of any risks associated with the season of snow and ice.
Check out these 8 Commercial Property Cold Weather Maintenance Tips; we’ve highlighted our top three below!
Rally Around Your Roof
There are two important tasks when it comes to your building’s roof in winter: first, make sure you’re keeping an eye on ice accumulation. Ice dams, which are build-ups of ice, often result in water damage to your property because they restrict the snow from draining properly as it melts.
The next step really follows the first: always make sure your roof is clear of snow and any debris is removed from your gutters. Doing so will also help reduce your risk of water damage in the (likely) event of a bad storm.
Prioritize Your Pipes
Do you know what happens when water freezes inside your pipes? Your pipes might actually burst, potentially causing all sorts of water damage beyond a simple leak or two. Avoid this costly scenario by keeping the heat in your building set above 55 degrees Fahrenheit -- whether or not you’re open for business.
Protect Pathways for Patrons and Employees
This seems like a no-brainer but did you know that in 2016 The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 20,520 slip-and-fall workplace injuries involved ice, sleet or snow? That means you can’t be too careful when it comes to safeguarding against wintry conditions on your property.
It’s important that you make every effort to remove snow and ice, along with taking the time to spread salt and sand in order to lessen the chance that an employee -- or customer -- might slip while on your commercial property.
Contact your local SERVPRO team for more commercial property expertise -- this season and year-round!
How to Safely Decorate your Business for the Holidays
12/27/2021 (Permalink)
December is an ideal time to get in the spirit by pulling out all the stops when it comes to holiday decorations. Don’t let your office or commercial property be left out in the cold. There are plenty of creative ways to get festive that do not require anyone getting up on the roof. Keeping safety in mind, we have a few suggestions for classy, festive, and beautiful ways to celebrate the season at your commercial building.
Exterior Enhancements
Who can resist the classic exterior look afforded by festive, twinkling lights? You can still stay off your roof and achieve this kind of illumination by decorating your bushes, shrubs, and trees instead. This winter wonderland touch can make any building look more warm and welcoming.
Why not update your company sign with some ribbon or ornaments? Easy to assemble, and easy to take down, this is a low risk, high reward way to bring some cheer to your employees and those passing by your commercial building!
Interior Improvements
Now that the outside is taken care of, let's take a look indoors.
It might sound silly, but swapping your computer’s wallpaper with a winter filter to show your holiday spirit is a fun and easy way to celebrate the season right at your desk.
Find spaces and common areas around your office that could benefit from some perfectly placed holiday figurines, small trees, menorahs, or kinaras. Remember, the best way to be festive is to be inclusive and showcase everyone’s seasonal celebrations.
Lastly, holiday plants like poinsettias are a colorful way to brighten the space on even the coldest or grayest day.
Once again, keeping safety always at the forefront of all your festive efforts, try to avoid hanging things from the ceiling. Doing so can pose a fire hazard and isn’t worth the risk when you have so many other options to choose from.
Here at SERVPRO Stoneham / Wakefield, we wish you a wonderful holiday and hope that your commercial building gets in the spirit with these helpful hints! Should anything go wrong this season, contact us for commercial services you can count on.
Scared of Some Mold in Your Commercial Building?
10/21/2021 (Permalink)
Mold can be a scary discovery any time of year. Our commercial property owners often find mold in their commercial buildings, due to the build up of moisture. This can mean leaky pipes, window sill water damage, or difficult to control humidity in your building.
Stop the Spores!
Mold can grow and spread quickly thanks to spores. You could compare a spore to a seed; as more spores are produced, more mold results.
If you detect mold in your commercial building, especially after encountering leaks around your windows and window sills, reach out to us for SERVPRO mold remediation services.
Don’t fear the presence of mold on your commercial property. No matter the size, shape, or color, at SERVPRO, we're masters at mold remediation.
Scared of some mold on your commercial property? Our mold removal (Wakefield) services at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield are top notch for your business. Contact us for reliable mold remediation!
Are Your Carpets Really Clean Enough for Customers?
9/22/2021 (Permalink)
From wall-to-wall carpeting to area rugs, our team can help get your carpets clean and ready for your staff and customers.
We’re not judging but the answer is probably “no,” and for no other reason than the nature of carpets and what they can… contain. Let’s take a look at some of the more insidious villains likely lurking in your carpet. Each one is reason alone to connect with your SERVPRO Wakefield team for commercial cleaning you -- and your customers -- can count on.
What’s Concealed in Your Carpet?
For starters, there’s the usual grit and grime that results from people coming and going, especially in high traffic areas like hallways. However, your carpet can also contain, well, creatures.
Consider this fun (and freaky!) fact from Scientific Reports: “We found that indoor arthropod diversity is strongly influenced by access to the outdoors and carpeted rooms hosted more types of arthropods than non-carpeted rooms.”
Translation: carpeted homes are home to a greater variety of insects, compared to homes without carpets. To really up the ick factor, these are dead bugs we’re talking about, having gotten caught in the fibers of the carpet.
Plenty of Pathogens
And allergens! In addition to pollen and mold, which can aggravate allergy-sufferers and those with respiratory conditions, your carpet might also contain as many as 200,000 bacteria per square inch, which puts your toilet seat to shame. These can include illness-causing germs like E. coli, salmonella, and staphylococcus.
Now that we’ve sufficiently grossed you out, consider contacting your local SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield team for commercial carpet cleaning worthy of your clientele.
How Insurance Companies Benefit from Disaster Mitigation
8/23/2021 (Permalink)
When you think of disaster recovery and mitigation, you probably think about how expensive it’s going to be covering the insurance claims for your customers. But when you refer your policyholders to the right disaster mitigation company, your insurance company also benefits in the following ways:
- Save money. The disaster response company you refer to your customer should provide your policyholder with the highest level of care AND work to save you money through timely restoration.
- Keep claim costs down. The right disaster response company knows that restoring your insurance customer’s property and belongings is less expensive than replacing it. So they should pre-test each surface to assess which of your customer’s belongings can be restored to their preloss condition.
- Be available around the clock. Disasters don’t happen on a timeline and neither should the recovery. Choose a disaster response company that offers a 24/7 National Call Center.
- Provide an inventory service. The disaster response company should provide an itemized room-by-room loss inventory, which allows your insurance company agents and adjusters to document claim items and capture inventory items immediately in one place.
- Offer electronic files at no cost. We live in a paperless society, and file access should be no exception. Choose a disaster response company that offers online access, at no additional cost, to all files, information, and proof of results.
- Handle loss of all sizes. Refer your insurance policyholder to a disaster response company that can handle any size loss from the small to the vast in any part of the country within hours.
What Massachusetts disaster response company can offer all of the above, and more? Trust the recognized national leaders in cleanup and restoration -- SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield.
Contact us here at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield for an assessment of your policyholder’s fire, water, storm, or other disaster damage along with a plan for remediation and rebuilding. We are dedicated to making it “Like it never even happened.”
Prepare for a Flood at Your Restaurant
7/30/2021 (Permalink)
Our team was able to make the water damage in this kitchen "like it never even happened."
At your restaurant, you’re used to the sound of water coming from the faucets, being poured into glasses, or boiling on the stove. What you’re not used to is the sound of water gushing from a busted pipe, an HVAC system, a busted roof, or a broken dishwasher.
Unfortunately, floods do happen at food service facilities, like fast food restaurants, fine dining restaurants, senior living facility kitchens, and school cafeterias. So you need to be prepared for what to do if you have a restaurant flood.
If you’re in the restaurant when the flood occurs, shut off the power and get everyone outside, or at least away from the area of the flood. If you’ve come into the restaurant in the morning to find a flood, shut off the power (or call the electric company to shut it off) before you walk inside to ensure water and electricity won’t be mixing.
What’s next? Contain and then get rid of the water. That could be as simple as putting a tarp over a roof that needs to be repaired, or turning off the water main to stop more water from soaking into your restaurant carpet, causing mildew or mold.
To get rid of the water, your best bet is a Massachusetts cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield that is certified and trained in water restoration. Our most effective method of removing moisture and water from any structure, including a restaurant, is extraction. Our extractors are used in cleaning carpets and removing water from floors following water damage. They can be truck-mounted or are portable, allowing for greater access inside your restaurant.
Along with extractors, we use air movers to reduce drying time, and dehumidifiers to pull in moist, humid air and release dry, warm air, which acts like a sponge to absorb moisture from wet materials.
Here at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield, we pride ourselves on our fast response time and our emergency mitigation system that helps lower water damage recovery costs and minimize additional property damages. Reach out to the Massachusetts water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield to get your restaurant back to its preloss condition.
Prep for Your Next Open House with a Pre-Clean
7/12/2021 (Permalink)
Help make your listing stand out and ensure potential buyers feel safe with a preemptive cleaning from SERVPRO!
The Massachusetts housing market remains on an upwards climb, with the number of sales of single-family homes climbing 12 percent from last year and currently five percent ahead of the figure for two years ago, according to the Greater Boston Association of Realtors. With the real estate boon, real estate companies are finding themselves busier than ever.
However, when you’re planning an open house for your latest sellers, you might want to consider that people may still be antsy about being inside a house and touching surfaces that have been touched by people they don’t know.
What can you do? If your sellers are okay with it, consider having their house professionally pre-cleaned and disinfected with the highest standard of care and clean. As a plus side, this is also something you can offer as a selling point to sellers when you’re describing why they should choose your real estate company.
What’s involved in an open house pre-clean and disinfectant? Well, we can’t speak for anyone else, but here at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield, we offer “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned,” which is our proactive viral pathogen deep cleaning. This level of cleaning goes beyond standard janitorial cleaning thanks to our over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination.
What’s involved in Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned? Your seller’s home will receive a deep cleaning, based on a conversation to determine the level of cleaning and disinfecting that’s needed. Then, using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions, our certified cleaners will pre-clean the home, adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
Our cleaners will also thoroughly disinfect commonly touched surfaces, like doors, refrigerator doors, and countertops, while making sure to use cleaning products that won’t mar stainless steel surfaces.
Once your seller’s home has been cleaned, you’ll receive a shield, digital emblems, and other collateral that shows the home is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. It serves as a beacon to help potential buyers feel safe coming into the home to see if it’s their perfect next home. At the same time, it promotes your real estate company as being one that is concerned about the safety of customers.
As an added bonus, you could also offer to have the seller’s home disinfected and cleaned after the open house so they’ll feel better coming back into their home after strangers have been there.
Are you looking for a company to pre-clean a home before your next open house? Reach out to the Massachusetts commercial cleaning experts at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield. We have state of the art technology that will help you pre-clean your seller’s home and make it the best on the block!
Help Parishioners Feel Safe Attending Church Services
5/28/2021 (Permalink)
People have always wanted a sense of community and to be around other people, and nowhere is that more true than gathering for a church service. However, the pandemic changed that quite a bit. According to the Q3 UnStuck Church Report, attendance is back at only 36% of what attendance numbers were pre-pandemic.
In-person church services provide more of a sense of community and belonging than virtual services, but the fears can outweigh those benefits, prompting people to stay home.
How can you help your church parishioners feel safe attending church services in person? One way to do so is to have your church deep cleaned and certified as having received a thorough preventative deep cleaning.
At SERVPRO Stoneham / Wakefield we offer “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned,” which is our proactive viral pathogen deep cleaning. This level of cleaning goes beyond standard janitorial or carpet cleaning thanks to our over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination.
What’s involved in Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned? Your church administrator will meet with us for a consultation to discuss your church’s cleaning needs. Then, using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions, our certified cleaners will clean your church, adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
Once your church has been thoroughly cleaned, you’ll receive a shield, digital emblems, and other collateral that shows your church is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. This material will help you bring parishioners back safely into your church’s flock.
Are you looking for a company to professionally clean your church? Reach out to the Massachusetts commercial cleaning experts at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield. We have state of the art technology that will be used to deep clean your church and help your parishioners feel better about attending in-person church services.
Biohazard Cleanup for Your Medical Office
4/29/2021 (Permalink)
In a medical office, you have to deal with and dispose of biohazardous waste and objects every day, in the form of tubes of blood; bodily fluids; used syringes and needles; contaminated gloves and other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE); drugs; used specimen slides; and more.
You have procedures and policies for disposing of these biohazardous substances, but accidents can happen in your medical office that lead to a biohazard emergency.
If that happens, there are cleaning and disinfection steps you need to follow (as well as having employees tested for potential exposure) to reduce further biohazard exposure to your medical staff and anyone who visits your medical office.
First, immediately block off or close the area where the biohazard incident happened and provide medical attention to any members of your medical staff or patients that were impacted by the biohazard.
Then, reach out immediately to a biohazard clean up specialist, who’s trained in OSHA guidelines on how to clean up blood, infectious substances, and other materials that could spread pathogens if they’re left alone, or only wiped up with a paper towel.
Is biohazardous waste or a biohazard spill really something that you really want your usual staff to have to clean? Do you have the PPE for them, including shoe covers, clothes covering that’s liquid permeable, goggles, and protective gloves? Standard rubber gloves won’t work due to the potential of blood-borne pathogens on the scene like Hepatitis B or C or HIV or needles that might be part of the biohazard incident.
Who can you trust for your medical office biohazard clean up? Trust our disaster recovery experts at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield. We have received specialized training in hazardous cleanup and always wear the correct protective equipment along with using state-of-the-art technology and cleaning agents to safely and effectively remove any pathogens. With decades of experience, our biohazard cleanup professionals in Massachusetts will assess your medical office and follow OSHA guidelines and protocols for biohazardous remediation and clean up to make it safe for your medical office to reopen.
How to Fix Cracked Office Complex Windows
3/22/2021 (Permalink)
Have you ever been driving and had a rock hit your windshield, resulting in a crack that’s smaller than a quarter? This happens often, especially on our construction-heavy Massachusetts roads. Once there’s a small crack in your windshield, it’s just a matter of time before that crack spreads like a spider web across your windshield, so it’s best to get it replaced as soon as possible.
The same is true if there’s a wind or hail storm that causes tiny specks of damage or cracks to a window in your office complex. If you don’t take care of that commercial storm damage when you see a crack, you run the risk of rain getting into your office through the window, causing water or flood damage, along with mold and mildew if the water isn’t taken care of quickly.
Another risk from cracked office windows comes in the form of safety, as it’s a lure to burglars looking to break into your office. If the crack spreads overnight and shatters your window, that provides an easy entryway for anyone that wants to gain access to your office’s records, computers, and other items.
So, what can you do if you see a crack and can’t get it repaired right away? Here are some options:
- Place a tarp securely over the window on the outside
- Place thick packing tape over the crack on each side of the window
- Board up the window with a large piece or pieces of plywood
- Use a windshield adhesive that you can purchase at a store
In order to fix the cracked office window completely, you’ll need an epoxy solution with hardener and resin. It’s recommended to leave replacing a cracked window to a professional, as you don’t want to make the crack worse or damage the frame of your window in any way.
Need help with your commercial storm damage that resulted in a cracked window? Trust our Massachusetts commercial storm damage experts at SERVPRO Stoneham/Wakefield to help you with storm remediation, including an assessment and restoration.
What to do After a Flood in Your Municipality Office
3/12/2021 (Permalink)
Water is a welcome sound, and can be soothing, when it’s raining outside your City Hall municipal office window. It’s not so soothing, though, when you hear water dripping from your government office’s sprinkler system or a burst pipe in the ceiling or wall.
If the flood occurs while you’re in the office, shut off power and get everyone in the office outside, or at least away from the flooded room or rooms. Then, it’s time to deal with the commercial flood damage in your government office.
What’s first? Handle the water. This could be as simple as putting down a bucket, if there’s a leak in the ceiling, or turning off the main water valve to as much as needing to clean up water that has seeped into carpeting through your whole office.
In a municipality office, flood damage could also impact government records that are still in paper form sitting in filing cases or cardboard boxes. Your next step after shutting off the water valve is to get paper documents out of the way of the water and move them to a dry space. If any papers have been exposed to the water, try to set them out in the sun to dry them out, or you can talk to a flood damage remediation company in Massachusetts like us that have the latest in drying technology.
Reaching out to a commercial flood damage restoration company is your best choice to remediate a large flood in a timely manner, as any moment that your government office is closed is a time that you can’t aid your city or town. In order to deal quickly with a municipality office flood, contact our commercial flood damage experts at SERVPRO Stoneham/Wakefield. We can help you get your municipal offices back in working order, and remediate flood damage to your office walls, carpeting, or ceilings.
How to Handle Mold in Your Warehouse or Office
2/22/2021 (Permalink)
You may think of mold as something you have to worry about in your house, but it can also show up where you work.
Even if you don’t see spots of mold anywhere, it could be hiding in your office or warehouse’s HVAC system; ceiling tiles; carpet; or wallboard.
What could cause mold in your facility? If the mold is in your carpet, it could be caused by something as simple as someone dropping their coffee or water onto the carpet and thinking that just patting it with a paper towel will clean it all up.
Other sources for an office or warehouse mold outbreak are plumbing issues; leaks in your roof or windows; a flood; and kitchens that don’t have proper ventilation to release steam from cooked foods.
In a warehouse, you have the added issue of items being stored that may have been exposed to moisture before they were put into a storage box and then grow mold that seeps into the air.
For hidden mold, you’ll be able to detect it by the strong smell of must or mildew in the air, which is one sure sign that you need mold removed.
If you want to take care of the mold remediation yourself, use a cleaning solution that is made for mold, like bleach or an anti-fungal spray. You should also use disposable cloth to dry the area and then safely dispose of that cloth immediately.
Make sure that the room you’re cleaning is well-ventilated with open windows and doors, and that you’re wearing a mask, eye protection, and rubber gloves.
What should you do if you see or smell mold and don’t want to handle it yourself? Contact our mold remediation and mold removal experts SERVPRO Stoneham/Wakefield. We are professionally trained in mold removal and can effectively assess the mold damage in your warehouse or office. After our assessment, we will move on to mold containment, air filtration, cleaning and sanitizing, and then mold restoration.
Rich Talks Preparedness
9/22/2020 (Permalink)
PREPAREDNESS:
The definition of the word is, “A state of readiness.” We spend most of our time in our houses or the buildings we work at, which today are often the same place. These buildings have emergency exit plans, but what about when a fire or water damage occurs? Is there a plan to get you back into the building, going about life as normal? SERVPRO has an Emergency Ready Profile, which highlights any emergency plans already in place for your office, and adds to that restoration information for a faster recovery plan. Wasted time at the beginning of a loss can have negative effects on the building and down time can spell disaster to the life of your business. Installing drying equipment and beginning to clean are important steps to take immediately. SERVPRO is here for you 24/7 in the event of an emergency and ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Written by Rich Ciarletta
Keep Those Carpets Clean!
9/16/2020 (Permalink)
The appearance of your business speaks volumes to your customers and clients, especially in the current state of the world. Having a clean, fresh-smelling carpet is an important part of keeping your business looking it's best. Foot traffic and airborne impurities such as pollen, dust, and other contaminants can damage your carpet over time.
Tips for taking care of your commercial carpet:
- Frequent vacuuming
Be sure to vacuum your carpet multiple times a week. This will keep soil and debris from becoming embedded into the carpet fibers. This dirt builds up over time and shortens the life of your carpet. Frequent vacuuming is the best defense against premature damage. - Removing stains
Treat spills as soon as possible. Blot the area with a paper towel or cloth. Do not rub or scrub the stain as this can cause more damage by pushing the stain deeper into the carpet fibers. Use a mild, carpet safe cleaner to help remove the stain. - Use walk-off mats
Use walk-off, or entry mats inside and out to keep dirt off the carpeting. Coarse-textured mats outside your doors remove soil and will help to minimize the amount of dirt that is tracked in. Water-absorbent mats inside prevent wet shoes on the carpeting. - Have your carpet professionally cleaned 1-2 times a year
A professional carpet cleaning will keep your business's carpets looking their best. If you would like to schedule a commercial carpet cleaning with SERVPRO of Stoneham/Wakefield, please call us at 781-245-0011.
Is Your Business Prepared?
9/11/2020 (Permalink)
Are You Ready?
Preparation is a key component for making it through any size disaster; whether it’s a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. The best time for planning for such events is not when the damage occurs, but well before it happens.
No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it. Now is the time to ask yourself, “Am I ready for what could happen?”
The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile, or ERP, is a startup approach that provides the critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services. It is designed to serve as a quick reference guide of important building and contact information. By working with SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Profile, your business will receive the benefit of over 40 years of experience in reducing the impact of any natural or man-made disaster. Having an ERP also means our team can get to work faster, putting those precious moments back towards remedying your situation.
SERVPRO® is a leader in water and fire damage response and can help you quickly get your property back in working order.
Call us today for more details!
Haverhill Firefighter Relief Golf Outing 2020
9/1/2020 (Permalink)
Thank you Wicked Cornhole for the fantastic job they did on these cornhole boards!
With all the chaos 2020 has brought about, a sliver of normalcy could be found at the Haverhill Firefighter Relief Association Golf Outing. While it did have to be modified a bit to follow the new safety standards, it went off without a hitch. It was a perfect day to be outside at the Bradford Country Club, with not a single cloud in sight.
SERVPRO was there showing our support, as we have many years prior. Several staff members even participated in the tournament, teaming up and teeing off for the cause. The entire marketing team helped to sell mulligans and raffle tickets for a beautiful cornhole board set crafted by Wicked Cornhole in Tewksbury.
A fun time was had by all, and it was a wonderful day raising money for a great cause. We can’t wait to do it again next year!
Get Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
8/25/2020 (Permalink)
COVID-19 has changed what it means to be clean. Getting back to business relies on getting customers and employees back through your doors. That will only happen if they feel secure that you have provided a safe and healthy space. When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to professionally trained technicians, we will get you business-ready as the economy continues to reopen.
To help quell anxieties of businesses and their customers amidst reopening, we have developed a new service called “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned”, which consists of a dual defense cleaning protocol and optional testing. Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to propriety signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates your commitment to a higher standard of clean as well as to the safety of your customers and staff.
If you are interested in learning more about this or any of the other services we offer, give us a call!
Commercial Cleaning & Restoration
4/2/2020 (Permalink)
You invest a lot of time energy and resources to maintain, protect and increase the value of your business. Your facility is a central component in achieving success. When you experience a fire, water or mold damage in your commercial facility, you need fast response and the expertise to handle the situation – to get back into operation as quickly as possible.
SERVPRO of Stoneham/Wakefield is committed to providing fire and water cleanup and restoration services to reduce business interruptions and recovery costs. Our technicians are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help get your business back in business. We have the training and specialized equipment to restore your commercial property and make it “Like it never even happened.”
We specialize in:
- Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
- Water Removal and Dehumidification
- Mold Prevention and Remediation Services
- Biohazard and Sewage Backups Cleaning
- Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care
- Upholstery Cleaning
Give us a call at 781-245-0011 for a free estimate!
When Disaster Strikes, SERVPRO Strikes Back With Solutions
9/23/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Stoneham/Wakefield professionals put you back in control of your business after water, mold or fire damage.
When a disaster strikes, it is never welcomed. Such an event can disrupt business and ruin the lives of those involved. SERVPRO of Stoneham/Wakefield can provide immediate response. Our plan of action for you is already in place. The faster we arrive on site to perform water and smoke clean-up, the better your results and the lower your costs.
Immediate response time is important. SERVPRO of Stoneham/Wakefield professionals will contact you or your insured to arrange for service within one hour. Within four hours of loss notification, we will be on site to start mitigation services. A preliminary report of the loss will be given to the appropriate person within eight business hours.
SERVPRO offers:
- 24 Hours A Day, 365 Days A Year
- Over 35 Years Years Experience
- Dehumidification Services
- Deodorization and Odor Removal
- Contents and Structural Cleaning
- Electronics and High Tech Equipment Restoration
- Immediate Disaster Response
- Standardized Documentation
- Electronic Claims Handling
- HVAC and Ductwork
Commercial Water Damage
9/17/2019 (Permalink)
Water damage remediation in a commercial setting.
Sprinkler systems can be a common source of water damage in commercial facilities. While their benefits far outweigh their cons, both properly and improperly working sprinkler systems can contribute to a flooded facility. In this case, a fire in an adjacent building caused the sprinkler system in this building to go off over the weekend. The sprinkler shut-off was eventually found but not until the damage had affected 36,000 sq ft of the facility. If this was your facility, what would you do?
Choose a Trained Professional
When your facility is affected, it is important to call a commercial drying specialist such as SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield. At SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, we understand that every hour closed leads to an hour lost of productivity and potential revenue. Commercial damage restoration produces unique challenges so it is very important to choose a trained professional with a proven track record. At SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, we will respond immediately to your damage regardless of size or scope. When your facility is affected, no job is too big or too small. If your find yourself in this situation, call SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield at 781-245-0011.
SERVPRO Here to Help
9/14/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Stoneham/Wakefield professionals are here to help with all of your water, fire and mold damage needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Flooding and water damage events at Stoneham, Wakefield, Reading and North Reading commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a damaging 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.
Unexpected Water Damage Can Be Frightening
9/1/2019 (Permalink)
Imagine it is 7:00 a.m. on a Tuesday, and you walk into your office after a relaxing long weekend expecting to switch on the lights, start the coffee pot, and check your emails.
The only problem? A water pipe has burst over the weekend, dumping thousands of gallons of water over your floor, down the walls, and affecting most of the furniture in the office. You realize this problem is far beyond the reach of your shop vac. What do you do now?
When it's your home or business that's underwater, mitigation can't wait. You need mitigation to begin yesterday. If water damage strikes you or your customers, give SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield a call immediately.
The cost of water damages can increase exponentially with time. Wood floors warp, drywall soaks in moisture and mold develops in hard to reach areas of your home or business. The benefits of rapid mitigation by a SERVPRO® Technician are two-fold: Your costs go down as potential hazards may be avoided, and your peace of mind goes through the roof.
So if the unthinkable happens to your home or business, allow SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield to help quickly turn your "before" into a "happily ever after." Call today at (781) 245-0011.
Commercial Mold Damage
8/26/2019 (Permalink)
Remediation of mold damage in a commercial building.
Besides causing a major business interruption, a mold problem can present a serious health risk for people exposed at your commercial property. Mold infestations can be caused by minor water intrusions, like a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting. Mold can also grow as a result of improper drying when you have a water leak that was not properly dried. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you suspect your property has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, who will respond quickly and work fast to manage the situation.
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (781) 245-0011.
We are an IICRC Certified Firm
3/19/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
- Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
- Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
- Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
- Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
- Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield 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.
Make Sure This Fun Night Is Safe For Kids!
9/21/2018 (Permalink)
HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
Walk Safely
- Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
- Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross.
- Put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.
- Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
- Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to
the left as possible. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings. - Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.
Trick or Treat With an Adult
- Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.
Keep Costumes Both Creative and Safe
- Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.
- Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.
- Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers.
- When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls.
Drive Extra Safely on Halloween
- Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
- Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
- Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
- Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
- Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.
- Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert for kids during those hours.
When Disaster Strikes Your Business
5/29/2018 (Permalink)
When disaster threatens a community, it is often too late to take the necessary steps to prepare homes, businesses and family members for the situation. Whether it's a blizzard, flood, hurricane or wildfire, disasters of all types often give little to no warning before they strike. The time to prepare for a storm is not as it approaches-the time to prepare is now.
No matter what part of the country you call home, we want to ensure you are prepared for any type of disaster. Whether you have damage caused by a hurricane, tornado, flash flood, or any other reason, SERVPRO® of Stoneham/ Wakefield have the resources, experience and training to help get your doors reopened for business as soon as possible.
If your property suffers a fire or water damage, SERVPRO® of Stoneham/ Wakefield will be ready to help you make it "Like it never even happened."
Items To Help You Build Your Own Emergency Kit
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
- Manual can opener
- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Clothing
- Dust masks or bandanas
- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Hygiene items
- Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
- Cash
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
Commercial Water Damage
5/23/2018 (Permalink)
Water damage remediation in a commercial setting.
Sprinkler systems can be a common source of water damage in commercial facilities. While their benefits far outweigh their cons, both properly and improperly working sprinkler systems can contribute to a flooded facility. In this case, a fire in an adjacent building caused the sprinkler system in this building to go off over the weekend. The sprinkler shut-off was eventually found but not until the damage had affected 36,000 sq ft of the facility. If this was your facility, what would you do?
Choose a Trained Professional
When your facility is affected, it is important to call a commercial drying specialist such as SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield. At SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, we understand that every hour closed leads to an hour lost of productivity and potential revenue. Commercial damage restoration produces unique challenges so it is very important to choose a trained professional with a proven track record. At SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, we will respond immediately to your damage regardless of size or scope. When your facility is affected, no job is too big or too small. If your find yourself in this situation, call SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield at 781-245-0011.
Commercial Mold Damage
5/23/2018 (Permalink)
Besides causing a major business interruption, a mold problem can present a serious health risk for people exposed at your commercial property. Mold infestations can be caused by minor water intrusions, like a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting. Mold can also grow as a result of improper drying when you have a water leak that was not properly dried. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you suspect your property has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, who will respond quickly and work fast to manage the situation.
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (781) 245-0011.
Unexpected Water Damage can be Frightening
5/1/2018 (Permalink)
Imagine it is 7:00 a.m. on a Tuesday, and you walk into your office after a relaxing long weekend expecting to switch on the lights, start the coffee pot, and check your emails.
The only problem? A water pipe has burst over the weekend, dumping thousands of gallons of water over your floor, down the walls, and affecting most of the furniture in the office. You realize this problem is far beyond the reach of your shop vac. What do you do now?
When it's your home or business that's underwater, mitigation can't wait. You need mitigation to begin yesterday. If water damage strikes you or your customers, give SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield a call immediately.
The cost of water damages can increase exponentially with time. Wood floors warp, dry wall soaks in moisture and mold develops in hard to reach areas of your home or business. The benefits of rapid mitigation by a SERVPRO® Technician are two-fold: Your costs go down as potential hazards may be avoided, and your peace of mind goes through the roof.
So if the unthinkable happens to your home or business, allow SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield to help quickly turn your "before" into a "happily ever after." Call today at (781) 245-0011.
We are a Certified IICRC Firm
11/16/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
- Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
- Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
- Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
- Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
- Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield 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.
SERVPRO Here to Help
11/16/2017 (Permalink)
Flooding and water damage events at Stoneham, Wakefield, Reading and North Reading commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges
Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
About SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a damaging 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
5/12/2017 (Permalink)
Sprinkler systems can be a common source of water damage in commercial facilities. While their benefits far outweigh their cons, both properly and improperly working sprinkler systems can contribute to a flooded facility. In this case, a fire in an adjacent building caused the sprinkler system in this building to go off over the weekend. The sprinkler shut-off was eventually found but not until the damage had affected 36,000 sq ft of the facility. If this was your facility, what would you do?
Choose a Trained Professional
When your facility is affected, it is important to call a commercial drying specialist such as SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield. At SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, we understand that every hour closed leads to an hour lost of productivity and potential revenue. Commercial damage restoration produces unique challenges so it is very important to choose a trained professional with a proven track record. At SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, we will respond immediately to your damage regardless of size or scope. When your facility is affected, no job is too big or too small. If your find yourself in this situation, call SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield at 781-245-0011.
Commercial Mold Damage
5/12/2017 (Permalink)
GOT MOLD?
Besides causing a major business interruption, a mold problem can present a serious health risk for people exposed at your commercial property. Mold infestations can be caused by minor water intrusions, like a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fitting.Mold can also grow as a result of improper drying when you have a water leak that was not properly dried. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you suspect your property has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield, who will respond quickly and work fast to manage the situation.
SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make disaster "Like it never even happened." Give us a call today at (781) 245-0011.
Unexpected Water Damage in Your Reading Home or Business Can Be Frightening
5/11/2017 (Permalink)
A water pipe has burst over the weekend, dumping thousands of gallons of water over your floor and affecting most of the furniture.
Imagine it is 8:00 a.m. on a Tuesday, and you walk into your office after a relaxing long weekend expecting to switch on the lights, start the coffee pot, and check your emails.
The only problem? A water pipe has burst over the weekend, dumping thousands of gallons of water over your floor, down the walls, and affecting most of the furniture in the office. You realize this problem is far beyond the reach of your shop vac. What do you do now?
When it's your home or business that's underwater, mitigation can't wait. You need mitigation to begin yesterday. If water damage strikes you or your customers, give SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield a call immediately.
The cost of water damages can increase exponentially with time. Wood floors warp, dry wall soaks in moisture and mold develops in hard to reach areas of your home or business. The benefits of rapid mitigation by a SERVPRO® Technician are two-fold: Your costs go down as potential hazards may be avoided, and your peace of mind goes through the roof.
So if the unthinkable happens to your home or business, allow SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield to help quickly turn your "before" into a "happily ever after." Call today at (781) 245-0011.
Does Your Company Have an Evacuation Plan for Employees?
5/11/2017 (Permalink)
On their website, The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides important safety information as well as life saving tips for employers to share with their employees should it be necessary to evacuate a building in the event of an emergency. It is worth taking a look, you will be surprised at what you learn! Check it out. https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/evac.html
And although an emergency escape plan is not required for all businesses, OSHA highly recommends that you provide an emergency action plan to protect yourself, your employees, and your business space during an emergency situation. Here are some tips:
A disorganized evacuation can result in confusion, injury, and property damage. When developing your emergency action plan, it is important to determine the following:
- Conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary.
- A clear chain of command and designation of the person in your business authorized to order an evacuation or shutdown.
- Specific evacuation procedures, including routes and exits.
- Specific evacuation procedures for high-rise buildings.
- Procedures for assisting visitors and employees to evacuate, particularly those with disabilities or who do not speak English.
- Designation of what, if any, employees will remain after the evacuation alarm to shut down critical operations or perform other duties before evacuating.
- A means of accounting for employees after an evacuation.
During development and implementation of your draft plan, think about all possible emergency situations and evaluate your workplace to see if it complies with OSHA's emergency standards.
Emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Stoneham/ Wakefield provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (781) 245-0011
24/7 Emergency Service
