Storm Damage

7/11/2024 (Permalink)

Storm destruction

How is storm damage reduced? Mother Nature can have a mind of her own, but there are some things you can do to limit the amount of damage your property receives from a storm.

• Secure outdoor items: Taking a few minutes to secure outdoor belongings can go a long way in preventing them from causing damage to your property.
• Make sure to secure trampolines, grills, trash cans, canopies/awnings, play equipment
• consider storing vehicles inside a garage or under a covered space if possible. 
• Maintain your home and yard
• Roof damage is common after storms due to wind, hail, and snow/ice.
• To decrease the likelihood of damage, ensure your roof is in good condition before the next storm.
• Additionally, regular trimming of trees and bushes can prevent weakened limbs and branches from falling during a storm.

If a storm does impact you, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf can help you with these services:

• fire and water damage
• cleaning and restoration
• water removal and dehumidification
• reconstruction
• mold mitigation
• carpet cleaning
• bio-hazard decontamination
• vandalism damage cleanup
• odor removal
• document drying, contents/furniture
• cleaning and contents storage if needed.

Whether the damage is located in just one room or an entire building, we can do any size or type of cleaning or reconstruction project.

Our goal is to make any type of damage "Like it never happened."

Why SERVPRO?

7/10/2024 (Permalink)

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO is a leading emergency restoration and mitigation company with over 2,000 locations across North America. Here are some key benefits We offer:

• Trust and Expertise: Founded in 1967, SERVPRO has a long history and trusted relationships with most major insurance companies.
• Streamlined Insurance Handling: We work directly with your insurance company to handle communication, approvals, and paperwork, minimizing your burden.
• Professionalism: Another benefit of SERVPRO® is the presentation of crews when they are at your property.  You know it is SERVPRO by our easily recognizable green on our trucks, equipment and uniforms.  Our trucks, equipment and team members are presented in a clean and standardized manner.  
• Communication and Respect: We keep you informed about the progress and treat your property with care.
• Diverse Services: Beyond fire and water damage, they offer restoration services for sewage, biohazards, post-construction cleanup, and more. 

If you have a problem that needs solving, give us a call at 563-386-3540.  At SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf we are always here to help.

SERVPRO Mold Remediation

7/10/2024 (Permalink)

Mold near ceiling

Mold Remediation

• Any home or commercial property can quickly be overcome with mold if a source of water is present.
• Mold can spread throughout a property in as little as 48 hours. Since mold can produce allergens and irritants, you should call us to inspect your home if you suspect you have a mold problem.
• If mold is found, we have the training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.
• Learn more about mold and what to do until help arrives by reviewing these mold damage tips.
• Understanding Mold
  Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy.
• Consider the following mold facts: Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors. Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
  Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
  Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If You See or smell Signs of Mold,

Call Us Today – (563) 386-3540

2024 SERVPRO CE Classes

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

3/1/2024

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities every year offers CE classes for Insurance Agents. All of the classes throughout the year will allow the agents to fulfill all of the credits needed for continuing education. Contact the marketing email or call us to sign up. We can also add you to our email list to see our newsletters to stay up to date on the classes.

Importance of Cleaning your HVAC System

9/8/2023 (Permalink)

How many homes get their HVAC system cleaned regularly? The answer is not very many. Many homeowners do not make cleaning their HVAC system a priority, but the reality is that it should be cleaned by a professional like SERVPRO® every 3 to 5 years. Why is this necessary? In an HVAC system, it draws the air from within your house and circulates it while heating or cooling it. This means that is picks up several different things in the air and pulls them into the vents. These things include dust and pet hair. The dust and pet hair build up in the vents over time. Some other things that can be found in the HVAC system are critters, like insects, mice, and cockroaches. Additionally, if there is condensation, mold can grow. Some risks with of these unwanted things in your vents circulating throughout your home is risk of health problems, usually this is seen in respiratory issues. Some other problems that can arise from an uncleaned HVAC system is an increased energy cost, reduced efficiency of the heating and cooling system, a smelly home, and circulating dirty air throughout your house. This introduces harmful micro-organisms into your body.

Emergency Ready Profile (ERP)

9/1/2023 (Permalink)

With a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) a business will always be prepared if a tragedy in the building occurs. An ERP provides specific details about the functionality of the building that a business is housed in. Starting from the important contact information of maintenance, building owner, insurance, and management, all the way to where the water and electrical shut offs are located. There is tons of information stored in the folder given to the property management after a SERVPRO staff member assesses the building and logs in all of the information. This information is important because hypothetically, if the building were to have a water loss, whomever is on site, this could be maintenance or even the front desk attendant, they would know exactly who to call and know exactly where to turn off any electrical systems or water systems without anyone there to assist them. This is also important because with losses of any kind, time is of the essence, the faster the damage can be handled the better. The more damage that is the done, the more expensive the loss will be and the longer a business will suffer from not being able to be in a functioning business. If a loss ever occurs, SERVPRO is open 24/7/365. We are a call away to have a Project Manager come assess the loss, and after get a crew on site to start mitigation and reconstruction if needed to get the business up and running again!

Biohazards

9/1/2023 (Permalink)

After a hazmat, trauma, or crime scene there is cleanup that needs to be done. SERVPRO has the experience, tools, and chemicals to clean up biological and chemical contaminants. These types of incidences require compliance with all environmental, governmental, and health regulations. We make sure to remember to treat the property with respect and to whomever may be involved with empathy and professionalism. Before we can begin the cleanup process there usually needs to be an investigation by police, after they are done, we assess the property to determine what cleaning products and equipment needs to be used. These types of incidences are handled very much with care, considering out technician’s bodily health and mental health as well.

After a Storm

8/8/2023 (Permalink)

The first step to cleaning up after a storm is making sure that area has been deemed safe. No one should enter an area that could be hazardous to your safety. Once it has been clarified that it can be entered safely, then the clean up process can begin.

Before entering the structure after it has been deemed safe is making sure you are geared with the correct safety gear. This includes a hard hat, eye goggles, boots that are waterproof and preferably with a steel toe and insole, sometimes ear plugs and waterproof boots are necessary, as well as a fire extinguisher.

To make sure that if anything were to happen, having another individual with you, instead of being alone will assure that help can come if needed. They can also help you pick up heavy objects.

SERVPRO is always here to help after a storm to help with any clean up that is needed. Anything from removing the contents in a home, to tearing out the damages to the structure and then following with the reconstruction process to get you and your family back home into normal daily life.

Winterizing Your Home

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Winter is not too far away… That means knowing what to do to winterize your house.

1. The number one thing that any homeowner should do because it causes the most damage in the winter time. PROTECT YOUR PIPES! Use tubular pipe wrap, insultation fittings, or rolled pipe wrap (depending where in the United States you live) to prevent them from bursting and causing a huge water loss. We receive many calls in the winter because of broken pipes, so this is very important.
2. Prevent roof damage by inspecting the roof for any damaged or missing shingles, clear debris like leaves and dirt that has collected over the fall, clean the gutters so that melting snow can access the roof easily and drain correctly, check the attic for any roof leaks and make sure that its ventilated properly so that mold doesn’t form, another option is installing heated gutters or roof heat cables so that ice doesn’t build up and cause excessive amounts of weight on your roof which could potentially cave in.
3. If you have a fireplace and chimney, have it inspected and cleaned.
4. As for windows, insulated curtains are very useful with keeping in the heat and locking out the cold or have storm windows installed. Other installation recommendations include weather stripping and insulation. This will not only keep your house warm, but also lower your heating bill.
5. Maintain anything that is kept outdoors. Bring in your plants so they don’t freeze and die. Bring in gas grills that have a propane tank, if not disconnect the propane and put a grill cover on the grill. Outdoor furniture can either be brought indoors or covered so they don’t get damaged.
6. Make sure you have all the equipment needed for the snow. Have shovels stocked and check to make sure the snow blower is working properly. Stock up in salt to put on your driveway and sidewalks.
7. Have your heating source serviced by a professional to make sure it is working correctly, cleaned, and that there is ventilation to the outside. Additionally, have a back up heating source just in case.

These simple tips can help maintain your home so that damages don’t occur with extreme cold. SERVPRO is always an option if there are any option. We are open 24/7, so that means if a water line breaks at 2 in the morning, we will be there to help. Check our website to find out what to do in case of any loss until help arrives.

Odor Removal

8/2/2023 (Permalink)

Persistent odor can be caused by a lot of things, mold, pets, smoke… Getting rid of the odor can be a challenge without the proper equipment. As for removing specific smells, the odor just cannot be removed most of the time, there must be a deep cleaning done. For example, with cigarette smell, there is more than likely nicotine and tar built up on the walls, ceilings, and furniture. That means we would use our special scrubbers for the ceiling and walls. Painting over it, the tar would eventually seep through so it’s always better to just remove the tar out right. Other hard surfaces would also need to be cleaned, like the side tables and anything else of that matter. After all the tar and nicotine has been removed, we use a special odor removing technique, we may use ozone or what is called a hydroxyl machine. Finding the source of the smell will determine what process needs to be done to remove the odor.

All About Biohazards

7/19/2023 (Permalink)

Biohazards are biological materials that can cause threat to human health and the environment. These biohazard materials can be in the form of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. They can also be biological toxins, such as venom or poisons. Biohazards can be as simple as blood or bodily fluids.

The ten examples of biohazards are:

1. Bacteria

Bacteria is on the most common biohazard. Some examples of this are Salmonella, E.coli, and Staphylococcus Auras (mRsa).

2. Viruses

Another common biohazard ranging in illnesses from the common cold to HIV, Ebola and most the most current Covid-19.

3. Fungi

A microorganism that can cause a biohazard. These organisms can cause infections in humans and animals or can cause allergies or asthma.

4. Parasites

These are organisms that live in or on other organisms. Health concerns can be as serious as Malaria, Toxoplasma and Giardia.

5. Biological Toxins

Which are toxins that can be produced in living organisms which can be poison's. This can be in the form of venom, Tetrodotoxins, or botulinum toxin. Based by snakes, spiders, pufferfish, or bugs. 

6. Bloodborne Pathogens

They are microorganisms that can be transmitted through blood or other bodily fluids. Some examples include HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. These are transmitted thru needles or other sharp objects.

7. Prions

Prions are abnormal infection proteins that can cause a group of rare degenerative brain disorders.

8. Biosolids

A nutrient-rich organic material resulting from treatment of sewage. These materials are sometimes used as fertilizer in agriculture.

9. Zoonotic Diseases

These can be transmitted from animals to humans. Some examples of this is Influenza (Bird Flu), West Nile Virus, and Lyme Disease. They are spread from infected animals, or through consumptions of contaminated animal products.

10. Environmental toxins

Chemicals or substances that can be harmful to human health or the environment. These toxins can be found in industrial waste, pesticides, and heavy metals. Some examples are Lead, Mercury, and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCB).

SERVPRO has the method to clean all biohazards. It is essential you protect yourself from all exposures in the workplace.

Pet Fire Safety

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

Pets are the cause of on average almost 750 house fires per year. These fires affecting around half a million pets and resulting in almost 40,000 deaths of pets. It is extremely important to be aware of how a pet can cause a fire in home. Accidents happen, but awareness is key. Your pet is family, so they should be included in your fire safety plan along with everyone else in your household. Pets can be trained to know what to do during a state of emergency. This means that if they aren't within eye view, they can be trained to remove themselves from your home when needed. Additionally, when practicing an escape plan, include your pets in this plan as well.

Some simple ways to make helping your pet escape is keeping your pet near entrances if they are kenneled so that fire fighters have easy access to them upon entry. Provide a list that fire fighters have access to on your windows or doors that include the number of pets and their names. 

There are ways to prevent your animals from causing a fire. Candles should be small so if knocked over they will go out easier, or even having a flameless candle or a wax melter. Keep space heaters out of the way so they can't be knocked over easily. Stoves are most common source of a fire when it pertains to fires caused by pets. Sometimes household objects can knocked over onto a hot stove or the stove knobs are turned. Cats are notorious for turning knobs on stoves or knocking over candles.

The best thing that any homeowner or tenant can own is a fire extinguisher that is easily accessible! No one ever thinks a fire can happen to them, but it happens a lot more often than people think! Being prepared is extremely important!

Soot and Fire Damage Removal

7/17/2023 (Permalink)

When it comes to removing soot after a fire, there are special steps that need to be taken. To start the process, highly-trained and experienced professionals with the appropriate tools are needed. Without the proper equipment or knowledge, more damage can be done, so it is always best to do things the right way the first time. The restoration process with a home or business is making everything looks like it did before the fire happened, "Like it never even happened." We want to make sure there is as little disruption in everyone’s life that is involved.

Although the soot and fire damage removal process takes time, we always try to make sure we are moving as fast and efficiently as possible. The most important thing to keep in mind is that we cannot rush the process, doing so leaves room for mistakes. SERVPRO as a company always tries to be as detailed as possible so the homeowner or business owner has no complaints after the job is done.

Steps To Take When There Is Water Damage

7/17/2023 (Permalink)

There could be a point in your life that you encounter water damage in your home, but what are the steps that need to be taken if this were to happen before help arrives?

The first step is removing the source if it's possible. Is it a broke water pipe in your home? Turn off the water! Sometimes certain housing has to get their water turned off by another party.

The second step is worry about the electricity. The last thing we want anyone to be shocked by electricity. If the area that is wet has circuit breakers. Make sure to turn those off as well. It is important to note that no one should enter an area that may have affected electrical outlets, breakers, or equipment! It is not recommended that ceiling fans should not be turned on is the ceiling is wet!

The third step is, if possible, removing water that can be removed with a mop or towels. Do not use a vacuum!

The fourth step is removing propping furniture up it doesn't sit in the water and become damaged. This can be done putting the furniture on blocks or wrapping the legs of the furniture with aluminum foil. If the upholstery or cushions are soiled, move them to a well ventilated area to air dry. It isn't recommended that they are put into a dryer. All of the other belongings should be moved to an area that is dry. This includes electronics, artwork, clothing, documents, and anything else that is in the affected area. 

SERVPRO Family

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

Everyone attending the Fourth of July Parade!

Here at SERVPRO, we have created a positive, friendly, family-oriented work environment. Each one of us brings something to the work place that makes us want to come to work every day with a positive attitude! Each Tuesday, our Digital Marketer has a #TeamMemberTuesday for our Facebook page and one of the questions asked is, "What is your favorite part about working at SERVPRO?" And almost every single person answers with, "The family environment." The atmosphere of the company has shown greatly through the quality of work that we give our customers because we enjoy each other's company while working. Although the work can be very labor intensive, it is always more gratifying doing the work when you enjoy the company of the people working by your side.

Signs of Mold

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

Mold on drywall

7/10/23

Are you wondering if you might have mold in your house or commercial building?

Here are some indicators that this may be the case!

The most common sign is a rotten smell. Mold or mildew has a distinct smell… A musty or damp smell. If you are wanting to find the mold, the best way is to follow your nose to the growth or look for obvious signs of mold. Visual signs include contamination or warping of flooring or wall material, furniture that has fungus, or obvious visual mold growth itself.

If you had former water damage, a water leak, or if there is excessive amounts of humidity, it could be possible that mold has formed over time. Another indicator of mold is you have consistent allergy symptoms or a cough or cold that will not go away. We are not health experts, but this a common occurrence that we see with our customers who spend time in a home or building that has mold present.

If you think that it is possible that there is mold in your home or commercial building; we have the unique equipment needed to find the mold and to get rid of it. Mold can be very dangerous, so it is important to get it removed as fast as possible!

Damage after a Storm

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

7/11/2023

Living in the Midwest, storms are inevitable. Living in a house, most people have trees in their yard and sometimes these tree limbs break and fall on the roofs of houses. Often this causes damage to the roof and could go into the house itself causing even more damage. If this were to happen, the next step is tarping the roof to protect the house from outside elements, illegal entry, and wild animals. SERVPRO offers inspection and repair on roofs; this process includes tarping and board up. This is a service that customers are often unaware that we offer. SERVPRO’s call center is open 24/7, this means that if storm damage happens overnight, we can be there to help at all hours of the day. We want to make sure that the damages to your home are is limited as possible and that way the restoration process is a lot smoother, faster, and less costly. We know how important it is for families to go back to their normal daily lives in their houses.

2023 CE Classes

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

We pride ourselves in offering FREE CE classes for our insurance community! Come and join us on any of these days for an entertaining class and free lunch! 

Does Home Owner's Insurance Cover Water Damage?

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

DOES HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE COVER WATER DAMAGE?

You already have insurance and you’re paying for it. But did you ever ask yourself if your homeowner’s insurance covers water damage? What’s covered and what’s not in your homeowner’s insurance policy?

Waking up to a flood due to faulty water heater is annoying especially after you realized your floor is damaged. Plumbing and leaking pipes can be a potential disaster, costing homeowners thousands of dollars. Water damage done to your home is covered by a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. However, not all types of water damage are covered. It’s not always easy to figure out when water damage is and isn’t covered by your policy because the distinctions are so fine, but this guide will inform you of the specific situations when your homeowner’s insurance will cover water damage.

When Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Standard home insurance policies require water damage to be sudden and internal, with the requirement that the water has never touched the outside ground. It means that, if water damage occurs suddenly or accidentally from a source inside your home, such as a busted pipe, it will likely be covered by your homeowner’s insurance. If the water comes from outside your home, it will not be covered by your standard policy.

• Plumbing: Burst pipes, frozen plumbing, faulty plumbing, accidental overflow
• Water damage from extinguishing a fire
• A leaking roof (coverage would extend only to the home interior, not the roof itself)
• An accidental overflow of an appliance or fixture (toilet, washing machine, bathtub)
• Mold (only when it’s the result of covered water damage)

What types of water damage not covered by homeowner’s insurance?

Water damage is not covered by insurance if the result is not accident or unexpected occurrence. Here are three instances in which your homeowner’s policy will not provide coverage:

1. Maintenance problems that have not been attended to
2. Repair or replacement of the actual source of the water damage.
3. Flooding

Standard policies won’t cover water damage resulting from a flood, you’ll need to purchase additional flood insurance, especially if you are in area prone to flooding.

If your house floods due to a burst pipe, which happened suddenly and accidentally, that would be an exception, your homeowner’s insurance can cover the costs of water damage.

Does homeowner’s insurance cover water damage from rain?

Homeowners insurance covers water damage from rain sometimes, but not always. It all depends on how the damage occurred. For example, if a storm opens a hole in your roof, allowing water to leak in and destroy valuable personal property, your policy typically offers coverage. But when lack of maintenance results in water damage, you won’t be covered.

If you do find yourself with water damage, call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf to help! 563-386-3540

Is Storm Damage Covered by Insurance?

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

Storm damage may be covered by your insurance policy, but you’ll need to reach out to your agent to get specifics about your particular coverage. It’s important to note that your home must be maintained to a reasonable standard. Otherwise, it could be hard to prove that the storm was the cause of the damage versus a lack of proper maintenance and general wear and tear.

• Insurance coverage for weather damage can depend on the type of policy you have and any events it specifically includes or excludes.
• Liability due to weather factors on your property are often covered, such as if someone slips on ice and is injured.
• It’s advisable to review your home insurance policy so you know exactly what it does and doesn’t cover before a weather event occurs.

What Types of Service Does SERVPRO Offer?

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, you can depend on SERVPRO, whether you need emergency flood damage restoration or your upholstery cleaned. We have the training, experience, and equipment to make your house feel like home again.

• 24-hour emergency service
• Highly trained restoration technicians
• Faster to Any Sized Disaster
• A trusted leader in the restoration industry with more than 1,900 franchises
• Advanced restoration and cleaning equipment

Residential Restoration Services

Fire, water, and mold restoration are the cornerstones of our business. SERVPRO is dedicated to responding to your emergency fast. Our focus on training ensures we have the expertise and skills needed to promptly restore your property right the first time. Our restoration services include the following:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm and Major Events

Residential Cleaning Services

Life happens. Kids spill drinks, pets have accidents, and homes get dirty. SERVPRO offers cleaning services ranging from air duct cleaning to removing biohazard contaminants. Their residential cleaning services will not only ease the burden of the constant maintenance of your home, but will also create a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment for your family. Our cleaning services include the following:

• Overview of Residential Cleaning
• Air Ducts & HVAC
• Biohazard
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Ceiling, Floors & Walls
• Drapes and Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Sewage and Toilet Overflow
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Vandalism and Graffiti

Why SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf?

2/20/2023 (Permalink)

When the unexpected happens, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is Faster to any size disaster®. From fire and water damage to mold remediation and disinfecting of COVID-19, no job is too big or too small. But what is it that makes their emergency services so special? Why should you choose SERVPRO?

As a home or business owner, having a service you trust in your community can mean everything when disaster strikes or the unexpected happens. Read on to learn why SERVPRO is the way to go.

 Why Choose SERVPRO?

 COVID Disinfecting and Cleaning

When you see the Certified: SERVPRO Clean badge displayed at the businesses in your community, you know it’s safer to enter. With their defensive cleaning program targeting viral pathogens, SERVPRO meets a higher standard of clean, as set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other local authorities. If you’re a business owner, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is necessary for maintaining your reputation for safety.

Fire Damage

No matter small or large, when fire damage affects your home or business, acting fast to recover a loss and repair and restore your property is paramount. Offering services in fire and smoke restoration, odor control, upholstery and carpet cleaning, complete remodeling, and more SERVPRO is there when you call, day or night.

Water Damage

Whether frozen pipes lead to a flood or torrential rainfall floods your home or business, SERVPRO quickly to provides water damage relief. Certified Experts will assess the damage, extract the water, dry and dehumidify your space, and clean and repair any damage left—leaving it, Like it never even happened®.

Mold Remediation

Unlike fire and water damage, mold can be a silent killer, growing in spaces the eye can’t see. However, when it makes its presence known, the results can be devastating. Luckily, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is highly-trained in mold remediation. These experts will contain the mold, filter the air, remove mold and mold-infested materials, and clean any compromised possessions.

Is your Home Prepared for a Fire this Winter?

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

Is your home equipped with these preventative items?

Often times fire is associated with the dry, hot weather that plagues the country in the summer months. During this time, we see burn bans in place for local communities, wildfires out west, and all of the accidents related to fireworks and grills. However, home fires actually occur more frequently in the winter than any other season!

One of the leading causes for US home fires and injuries are caused by heating. Heating is also the third highest cause of home fire deaths. An example of heating in the winter that leads to fires are space heaters, which accounts for one third of the fires taking place in December, January, and February. To reduce this number, plug only one heat producing appliance into an electrical outlet at a time.  Another important tip is to keep anything that can burn at least three feet from any heat source!

Another leading cause for home fires in the winter can be attributed to candles. Candle related fires peak during December, January, and February, causing one third of home decoration fires. To decrease the frequency of these fires, keep candles at least twelve inches away from anything that burns. Families should also think about using battery-operated flameless candles.  

However even with this knowledge, sometimes you cannot plan for a fire. In this case, you should make sure your family has a fire safety plan in place so that you are prepared for the unexpectant. Examples of this would include making sure you have working smoke detectors on every level of your home, with smoke detectors placed in each bedroom, and outside the sleeping areas. You should be testing these detectors at least once a month to ensure the batteries work properly as well.

You should also have a fire extinguisher in your home. A fire extinguisher can stop a small accident from turning into something bigger as fire can spread very quickly. Kitchen fires often involve grease and oil, which can’t be extinguished using water, making a fire extinguisher even more valuable. Other reasons you should have one is for fires involving cooking appliances like air fryers and stoves, smoking in your home, and electrical products like curling irons and overloaded extension cords.

Practicing fire safety encompasses all of these preventative measures, but you also need open communication with your family. Does your family know where the fire extinguisher is located in the house? Do you know when the smoke detectors were checked last? What is your exit plan in the event of a house fire? Having these discussions will ensure everyone is prepared and ready to go!

You can’t always plan for a disaster, but you can help prevent one! Here at SERVPRO, we help the community every day and we will be there for you as well. We can’t change the fact that your home was damaged by fire, but we can make it "Like it never even happened."   

Businesses: Be Prepared for Disaster!

1/11/2023 (Permalink)

Towards the end of December, we had our first Storm scenario here at SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf. Temperatures dipped below freezing, and our community was faced with frozen pipes and extensive water damage. Because this was the first big freeze of the year, most weren’t prepared. We had over 130 calls in a span of three days, including residential and commercial properties. The entire community was affected, and with such an influx of jobs, we had to create a wait list to keep track of everyone needing help. We started with our initial calls, and worked our way down.

For commercial businesses that depend on being open and running smoothly, we understand the frustration of having to wait until help arrives. That’s why we created the Priority Service Agreement, where we establish a commitment to providing emergency services to your business right away. This document establishes trust in us, as that business is contracted to be a priority. This is an important relationship, as a delay on services affects how you operate your business and can potentially cause other problems.

We know you can’t always predict disaster, but you can be prepared in the event of one. Let us make it Like It Never Even Happened. The next time one of our marketing representatives visit your business, let them know you want to be a priority for us with a Priority Service Agreement.

Our Highly Trained Technicians Can Help your Quad Cities Home!

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf 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 Davenport/Bettendorf

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf 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.

Protect Yourself from Harmful Smoke!

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

You’ve probably heard that if you’re escaping a fire, you should crawl low underneath the smoke. This is, of course, if you cannot find an alternate escape route away from smoke. Heat rises, and in turn, smoke rises. In the attached image, you can see a clear line where the door is damaged from smoke. It’s a great visual to show how important it is to stay low in a fire.

Inhaling harmful smoke for even a short amount of time can cause severe health problems. More than half of all fire-related deaths are due to smoke inhalation. Should you find yourself in a situation that you need to escape a fire through smoke, the air is generally cleaner 12 to 24 inches above the floor.

Emergency preparedness is so important and we make it a goal at SERVPRO to help our community be prepared for disasters. If you are ever caught in a building with smoke, remember to drop and crawl to the nearest exit. If you come to a closed door, touch it with the back of our hand to test for it. If it is hot, do not open it and look for another exit.

Water Damage in My Home! What Should I Do?

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

A while ago we sent Jason and Ken to Living Local to educate them on what to do in the event of water damage in your home! Because it has been awhile, here is a refresher!

First and foremost, make sure you’re safe! Shut off circuit breakers for wet areas of your home, but only if access to the breaker panel is safe. Do NOT go into standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.

Ken demonstrated in SERVPRO’s Living Local segment how to get the furniture off of wet carpets using wood blocks or aluminum foil. There is some misconception behind this tip – you may think it is to prevent damage to the furniture. It’s actually to prevent damage to the floor!

Our suggestion for separating your wooden furniture from the carpet is to prevent wood stains or fabric from staining your carpet. SERVPRO can dry furniture and carpet, but stained carpet poses a bigger challenge. For that reason, we also suggest you remove colored rugs and use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off of your wet carpets to prevent staining. However, don’t try to move wet furniture from the area. When SERVPRO arrives to dry your space, our equipment will also dry the furniture in that space.

If you missed the great tips that Ken and Jason shared on SERVPRO’s Living Local segment, you can view them on our Youtube channel. https://youtu.be/1YQtQ1Vg42g

In the unfortunate event that you experience any kind of water loss, call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf Moline/Rock Island. We are available 24/7 to address your needs. The longer you wait to call, the greater chance of mold growth and unrepairable damage to your property may occur. Our team has the training and expertise to prevent or mitigate the effect of water damage.  

Heat Waves!

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

Heatwaves can occur almost anywhere in the country. The best way to overcome heat is to be prepared. Here are 10 tips to help you stay cool and be prepared when a heatwave strikes.

1. Find the coolest area of your home. Basements are the coolest because heat rises.
2. Drink more beverages. Even if you are not thirsty. However, stay away from hot drinks, and alcoholic beverages
3. Avoid eating protein-rich meals. Your body heat will increase as a result of the increased metabolic rate. Eat lighter and more frequent meals
4. Take a cool bath or shower. They should be right below the body’s temperature. Cold showers are not a good idea because they will make your body generate heat.
5. Wear light-colored loose clothes. Avoid dark colors, they absorb the heat rather than reflect like light colors
6. Avoid exercise and strenuous heat. If you must do, choose to do so in the early morning or evenings when its cooler
7. Place ice cubes or run cold water on your pulse points. Do this every couple of hours to help cool yourself off. Your pulse points are areas on your body where blood circulates close to the skin.
8. Spritz yourself with water and stay in front of a fan, in that water evaporates from your body to cool off.
9. Unplug appliances or electronics you are not using. Electronics such as tv can consume electricity that converts into heat.
10. Don’t forget that pets can be affected by heat. Don’t forget about your fur babies. Symptoms of heatstroke in animals: hot skin, wide eyes, excessive drooling, twitching muscles, and sometimes vomiting.

Proper ventilation is almost as important to maintain a comfortable temperature. Stay safe, cool, and know that SERVPRO of Quad Cities is here for you. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Fall Fire Safety!

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

The first day of fall was yesterday and with the change of the season comes loads of fun activities... bonfires, candles, and maybe even some baking! All of these things are fun, but we know that they can become dangerous quickly. That’s why we want to share some important fall fire safety tips with our fellow Quad Citians!

• Check your smoke detectors and make sure they are working properly… don’t forget to change your batteries with the time change!
• If you’re having a bonfire, make sure you’re in an open area away from overhanging branches and anything else that could catch on fire.
• Have a garden hose near your bonfire in case of emergency.
• Keep lit candles at least twelve inches away from anything that can burn and out of reach of children or pets.
• Use a timer when baking so you don’t lose track of time.
• When baking the batter, put a baking pan underneath your dish to catch the batter or excess liquid.

Enjoy the season safely! And remember that if disaster strikes, SERVPRO is here to help!

Have a Fire Plan!

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

With decades of experience in fire restoration, SERVPRO knows well how the effects of fire can devastate a home or business. As everyone knows, fire is also sometimes fatal. This is why every family should have a fire safety and response plan. When a fire breaks out, how quickly you act can make a huge difference in saving your home or business. The time it takes you to respond can also be life or death.

Once you have a plan set in place, make sure that everyone in your family knows the drill. It is especially important for your children to understand the plan. For extra safety, be sure to go over the plan at least once a year so there is no confusion.

For tips on what to include in your fire plan, call SERVPRO today.

What to do During a Lightning Storm

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve been having a lot of thunderstorms in the Quad Cities lately, and it’s that time of year again when SERVPRO reminds of you the importance of storm safety, particularly as it relates to lightning. Here are some tips to keep you safe during a thunderstorm:

• It is not safe to be outdoors during a thunderstorm. If you can hear thunder, that means to get inside and stay put until at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
• Stay away from anything electrical in your home, as well as plumbing, windows, and doors. Lightning can be conducted through these mediums and reach you.
• If you can’t get indoors, retreat from elevated surfaces, do not stay under trees and stay away from any object that can conduct electricity.

Be Prepared for Severe Weather!

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Being prepared to act quickly can be critical to staying safe during a weather event. Many businesses affected by major disasters never reopen—especially if they do not have an emergency plan in place. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action, and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared.

Know Your Risk.

Understanding the type of hazardous weather, and how it can affect you, your family or your employees is important. Check the weather forecast regularly, and obtain an NOAA Weather Radio.

Take Action.

Create a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and materials in a safe place.

Be an Example.

Share your preparedness story with your family and friends. Inspire others to do the same.

Preparation is key in making it through any size disaster and having a plan in place may help. Don’t wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 to establish your Emergency Ready Profile and be “ready for whatever happens.”

Choose SERVPRO for your Commercial Needs!

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

As a business owner, you understand the importance of maintaining a clean and odor-free office space, and how the appearance of your business reflects on your reputation. As everyday wear and tear gradually soil your office space, it can often be a challenge for your regular cleaner or janitorial staff to tackle the grime. Whether you have an odor problem, soiled carpet, or simply need general cleaning services, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is “Here to Help.”

SERVPRO offers full-service capabilities that deliver a deeper clean than your average cleaning company. With 24/7 service, we will respond quickly to assess the amount of soil and determine the best cleaning options.

Below you will find the various commercial cleaning services we offer:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

If your local business is in need of cleaning services, call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf today at 563-386-3540. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Be Prepared with an ERP!

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off valve locations, and priority areas. It is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free ready plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP establishes SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 45 years of experience and a system of more than 1,700 franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation.

The ERP is a no-cost assessment, all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future. Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 to establish your Emergency READY Profile. 

Save Money on Plumbing with an Annual Plumbing Checklist!

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

If you own a home, you know how expensive plumbing work can be. That is why catching problems before they get out of hand can save you a lot of money each year. In this way, it is a good idea to check your plumbing at least once a year, as well as monitor any developing issues year-round. Below you will find a list of tips to keep your plumbing healthy and save you some cash.

Have a leaking showerhead?

This can lead to a large water bill. Always address any leaking faucets or pipes to save on water.

Have a slow drain?

It may seem like a minor inconvenience, but over time these can become major clogs and need professional intervention.

Low water pressure?

This may be due to mineral build-ups on showerheads or faucets. These can be cleaned with vinegar, or a light mineral deposit solution.

Toilet running?

You may need to fix the flapper or chain inside your toilet tank. Chains often get hung up on the flapper, so it may need adjustment.

Choose SERVPRO for your Duct Clean!

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Your ventilation system is often the leading factor in poor indoor air quality. Routinely inspecting the ductwork at your home or business should be a high priority. Soiled air ducts can circulate odors, mold, and irritating dust throughout your home or business. Rodents, insects or pests, dust, dirt, debris, bacteria, mold, or pollen: all of these factors can significantly reduce your air quality.

At SERVPRO, we provide cleaning services for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping this system clean can potentially lengthen the life of your HVAC by allowing it to function at its peak condition; this can also save you money on utility bills and possible equipment repairs in the long run. We also offer sealing and coating to be sprayed in order to address odor issues or microbial concerns.

In other cases, duct cleaning is not always routine. Duct cleaning can become an essential service after a fire, smoke damage, or suspected mold growth. In case of a fire, smoke travels quickly through your ducts, especially if your HVAC system is running at the time. This can lead to ongoing odor issues in your home or business.

If you have a fire or need a routine cleaning service, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is “Here To Help” with your duct cleaning needs 24/7!

Locally Owned for 28 Years in the Quad Cities!

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is locally owned and family operated and has been a trusted restoration company in Quad City communities for 28 years. We are dedicated and passionate about helping homeowners and businesses in our communities recover from disasters, ranging from damage caused by fire, water, flood, mold, and more.

Coupled with our national backing from SERVPRO Industries—which gives us the proprietary equipment, chemicals, and training to provide unmatched services—we have highly trained local professionals ready to assist you with your restoration needs. In fact, some of our employees have been with us from the beginning, giving them up to 28 years of experience with SERVPRO. Our trained local professionals live and work in our Quad City communities and are ready at a moment’s notice to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

If you want to work with a locally owned business with 28 years of experience in our community providing restoration services, choose SERVPRO for all of your disaster and clean-up needs!

Highly Trained!

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

Highly Trained Staff

At SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf, our staff is highly trained in all aspects of property damage restoration. Our employees receive ongoing training that is both hands-on and web-based.  Additionally, our employees obtain certification from the Institute of Inspection and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is the certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. IICRC Standards are developed to provide the highest quality concepts, terminology, and procedures recognized in the cleaning and restoration industry. Given our dedication to employee development, rest assured our restoration professionals will make damage to your home or business “Like it never even happened."

Technology

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf uses advanced technology to bring your home or business to preloss condition effectively, reliably, and as fast as possible. Our advanced technology incorporates scientific principles from the field of Psychrometry. By controlling humidity, airflow, and the temperature of your property, we are able to remove moisture and dry affected areas quickly, preventing additional damage. 

Examples of tools we use:

• Infrared cameras and moisture sensors identify water location—it’s the water you can’t see that does the most damage.
• Thermo-hygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity, which allows us to calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.
• Commercial Dehumidifiers, both refrigerant and desiccant, absorb moisture from the air
• DryBook Mobile is SERVPRO’s proprietary software program that uses the latest technology to ensure your property is drying quickly and efficiently. DryBook provided real-time documentation of the drying process and validates that the equipment used and services performed are executed to the IICRC Standard.

24 Hour Emergency Service

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf provides emergency services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means no matter the day or time, we are here to help in your time of need. We are also faster to any size emergency, helping you to minimize damages to your property, as well as the cost of cleaning and restoration. This is especially important with water, as it spreads rapidly throughout your property into floors, walls, and furniture.

If you have an emergency, let SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf use our talented staff, advanced technology, and rapid response to make it “Like it never even happened." Call us at 563-386-3540.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Unpleasant Odor?

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

Unpleasant odors can be tough to get rid of in your home or business. This is especially true following a fire. Even a small fire can cause oppressive odors to linger for years unless the soiled areas are properly cleaned and deodorized. Left untreated, the aftermath of the soot and smoke from fires can become permanent. This is because, as smoke and soot travel throughout your structure, residues and deposits can get left behind in hard-to-reach places; the longer this sits, the more time it has to soak into the affected surfaces or materials.

At SERVPRO, our highly trained technicians have years of experience cleaning and deodorizing odor sources. Whether you have odor caused by fire, mold, pets, or cigarette smoke, we have the experience and expertise to tackle any size job at your home or business. We do not simply cover up the orders with fragrances; instead, our team of professionals pin-point the exact location of your odor and eliminate the source. Once we identify the source, we use our own proprietary cleaning products designed to eliminate odors and prevent them from returning. This service also includes any items within range of your odor problem that also need treatment, such as furniture, draperies, floors, walls, HVAC systems, ceilings, and more.

If you are in need of deodorization services, call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf today at 563-386-3540 and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Keep your Employees Safe!

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

As a business owner, you know how important it is to keep your valued employees safe. Having proper smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, security cameras, and other safety equipment is a great place to start. What if there is a tornado though? Do your employees know the safest place to escape to? Or a broken pipe? Do your employees know how to respond? More than having equipment in place, it’s important that your staff is well informed and knows how to respond in an emergency.

We recommend sitting down once a year on your own or with a leadership team to create a list of disasters that could happen and create plans for how you and your employees should respond. Then sit down with your team and review individual roles and responsibilities for different emergency situations. Make sure every new hire is aware of the plans you have in place to keep them safe and gather emergency contact information as a part of your hiring process.

Remember that SERVPRO is always Here to Help®. Let us set up an Emergency Response Plan for your business so you have shutoff and contact information for your business in one location. Should  disaster ever strike your business, call us to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Lightening Safety!

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

Summer is the season when lightning is most prevalent, though it can actually strike any time of year. Lightning strikes in the United States about 25 million times every year. Though rare, lightning strikes on humans can be fatal. On average, about 47 people are killed by lightning strikes every year, while hundreds more are left seriously injured.

As we enter the lightning season, it is important to know how best to stay safe. Below is a list of tips that will help you avoid injury or even death:

• Avoid open spaces during a thunderstorm
• Avoid metal structures just as fences or even electrical wiring
• Avoid trees, metal towers, and utility poles
• Try to stay indoors if possible
• Even though the skit may look clear, that doesn’t mean you are safe from lightning. If you hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning

Backyard Safety Tips!

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

BACKYARD SAFETY TIPS TO PREVENT HAVING A FIRE!

As the weather gets warmer, we tend to be outside more. We are using grills, fire pits, and patio heaters, and guess what; they all carry a risk of having a backyard fire. Here at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we want to help you stay safe from any backyard fires, here are a few tips to help have a safe, fun, relaxing summer enjoying your backyards with family and friends.

Fire Pits:

Keep all flammable items away from the pit

Keep it at least 10 feet from structures

Watch out for electrical wires

Keep an eye on kids and pets

Patio Heaters:

Only use them in well-ventilated areas, i.e., outdoors

NEVER use indoors

Don’t use them when it's windy

Keep an eye on kids and pets

Know how to shut off if needed

Grilling:

Propane and charcoal should be used only outside

Keep away from home, railings, and fences

Make sure to remove the grease

Always supervise the grill…never leave it unattended

So, if you are having a get-together, please follow these helpful tips.

As always, if a fire breaks out…you know who to call. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities will help you, we offer full-service capabilities with 24/7 service and will respond quickly to assess the damage and your best options. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Lightening and Fire!

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business is struck by lightning, you need to call the fire department immediately. Even if you do not see, hear, or smell a fire, it is better to be safe and prepared. When lightning strikes a structure, it can start a fire in attics or walls. So, while it may not seem like there was any damage, there could be an undetectable fire starting somewhere in your structure.

Why does this happen? When lightning passes through your home, it may take several paths to make its way to the ground as fast as possible. It may jump from outside lines to water pipes, or even from your gutter to window frame, and then to your electrical wiring in your walls.

It is best to be safe and call your local fire department to inspect your home or business to avoid significant damage.

Firework Safety!

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that more fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day of the year, with more than half of those fires caused by fireworks? Yep! With it being the holiday weekend, we figured we would share some helpful tips to keep you, your family, and all of your possessions safe! Many of these accidents can be avoided if you are taking the proper safety measures, read some of Brendan Rimetz suggestions below!

Have a designated shooter!

A responsible adult should be in charge of shooting off fireworks, one who has not been impaired by any drugs or alcohol! The National Safety Council suggests wearing safety glasses as eye and face damage are the most common forms of firework-related injury.

Know the fireworks you are using, and do not use illegal or homemade fireworks!

Read all safety and warning labels, and do not use fireworks that have been bought illegally or have no warning labels. You should always buy from a licensed dealer. Using the fireworks how they are intended to be used is also important.

Tampering with legal fireworks or building your own is dangerous and can lead to unexpected explosions. Fire Chief and NCFS board member Kyle L. Lenn, of Ralston, Nebraska, says the majority of the accidents he has responded to weren't caused by fireworks but by illegal explosives that people made and treated like fireworks.

Have water ready!

Keep a hose and a bucket of water close at hand. Use the hose to put out stray flames or sparks from firecrackers. Hose down any duds, or fireworks that do not ignite when lit, and let them sit for at least 20 minutes before handling to ensure they aren't delayed starters. After the wait time has elapsed, soak the firework in a bucket of water for an additional 15 to 20 minutes before disposing of it.

Be aware of your surroundings!

Plan where people will be sitting and the direction in which aerial fireworks will be firing beforehand. When purchasing any type of firework, keep the size of your space in mind and determine required spectator distances beforehand so you don't bring home something you shouldn't be lighting. Make sure onlookers are a safe distance away.

An Emergency Supply Kit could prove life saving when a storm hits

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

When a storm is bearing down on your home there is one thing that could prove life-saving to your family if the storm causes major damage to your home or neighborhood. This is the Emergency Supply Kit. Every home should have a kit made in case of a massive storm damages your home or business. These are the recommended items that you should have for your Emergency Preparedness Kit for your home or business.

Water (one gallon per person per day)

Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)

Manual can opener

Battery-operated radio, preferably an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries

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

Local Maps

Hygiene items

Important documents such as copies of insurance policies identification and bank account information

Cash

Fire extinguisher

Matches in a waterproof container.

Faster to your Davenport, Bettendorf, Clinton, or Muscatine Water Damage Event

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (563) 386-3540

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf

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

Firework Safety!

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Fireworks Safety

The 4^th of July is just around the corner; Happy Birthday America!!! There are thousands of reported firework-related injuries and fires every year. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to the professionals.

Fireworks are used to mark special events and holidays.

Some fun facts:

1. More than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks
2. Burns account for 44% of injuries treated in the ER that are seen around the 4th of July
3. Hands, fingers, toes, and eyes are at the highest risk of injury
4. Children ages 10-14 have the highest rate of firework injuries
5. Sparklers account for ¼ of ER firework injuries

Safety Tips

1. Use only legal fireworks; know your local laws
2. Keep water close
3. Keep your distance
4. Fireworks should only be used outdoors
5. Never let children play with or light fireworks
6. Never point fireworks at yourself or others
7. Soak them in water after use before throwing them in the trash
8. Never try to relight a dud

Some ideas to celebrate without using fireworks

1. Use glow sticks,
2. Be loud and proud, use a different safer noisemaker
3. Do a movie night outdoors
4. Find silly string…have silly string battles
5. Have crafts…
6. Don’t forget the cake!

Stay safe!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

TIME IS MONEY

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

The old adage is never more true than when dealing with a water-damaged home or business.  Every minute matters, because every minute the property remains wet could turn primary damage into serious damage—or even permanent damage.  That’s why emergency response matters.

Floods, broken pipes, and leaks don’t abide by the 9-to-5 workday.  So why should your restoration provider?  SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods to get the job done quickly and effectively.

If you find water creeping into your life, pick up the phone and call your local SERVPRO.  Their highly trained professionals can help you avoid the cost and inconvenience of serious and permanent damage to your home and possessions.  Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540—we’re faster to any size disaster.

What to Do Before Help Arrives: Water Damage

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

A pipe burst overnight. Or maybe a pipe has been leaking for a long time and you just now discovered it. What do you do now? First, you want to call a plumber depending on the severity of the leak. Next, call SERVPRO.

OK, SERVPRO is on the way; everything is going to be fine. But what do you do until we arrive? Here is a list of tips for what to do until help arrives during water damage:

• Get rid of any excess water with a mop or towel.
• Dry wood furniture to preserve the finish.
• Put aluminum foil between any wet carpet and furniture that you cannot move.
• Last but certainly not least, remove any lose items from rooms with wet flooring

BACKYARD SAFETY TIPS TO PREVENT HAVING A FIRE!

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

BACKYARD SAFETY TIPS TO PREVENT HAVING A FIRE!

As the weather gets warmer, we tend to be outside more. We are using grills, fire pits, and patio heaters, and guess what; they all carry a risk of having a backyard fire. Here at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we want to help you stay safe from any backyard fires, here are a few tips to help have a safe, fun, relaxing summer enjoying your backyards with family and friends.

Fire Pits:

Keep all flammable items away from the pit

Keep it at least 10 feet from structures

Watch out for electrical wires

Keep an eye on kids and pets

Patio Heaters:

Only use them in well-ventilated areas, i.e., outdoors

NEVER use indoors

Don’t use them when it's windy

Keep an eye on kids and pets

Know how to shut it off if needed

Grilling:

Propane and charcoal should be used only outside

Keep away from home, railings, and fences

Make sure to remove the grease

Always supervise the grill…never leave it unattended

So, if you are having a get-together, please follow these helpful tips.

As always, if a fire breaks out…you know who to call. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities will help you, we offer full-service capabilities with 24/7 service and will respond quickly to assess the damage and your best options. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Quad Cities Flooding

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

We have been lucky in the Quad Cities this year so far when it comes to flooding. In the past years, we have seen record flood levels and widespread devastation all across our communities. But why have we been so lucky this year? First, you have to understand why flooding happens in the first place.

Generally, flooding is when water overflows onto land that is usually dry. This can happen during heavy rain, or when a large amount of snow melts, causing waterways to be overwhelmed. Last year we had heavy snow and rapid melt in the northern parts of the country, which lead to an overwhelmed Mississippi river.

This year, the Mississippi River, as well as the Rock River, was not overwhelmed by increases in water flow. Let’s cross our fingers that this continues.

Annual Maintenance Checklist: Plumbing

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

As the season's change and the weather gets warmer, it’s time to reevaluate the conditions of our homes and check each system to ensure proper functioning. Your plumbing system should be checked annually by either you or a professional plumber, depending on your expertise. The following tips will serve as a guide in your efforts to keep your plumbing system functioning properly and healthy.

• Check the p-traps—the U-shaped pipes—under your sinks to prevent clogs. If it has debris or a clog, remove the p-trap and clean it out with a nylon brush.
• Check all faucets and under your sinks for leaks or signs of leaks.
• Check your showerhead for leaks or mineral buildups. If your showerhead has excessive leaking or mineral deposits, it may need to be replaced, or at least be cleaned with a special solution.
• Check all visible piping throughout your house. Pipes with visible discoloration may have corrosion or other issues. Also check for mold or mildew, which can be a sign of small leaks. These should be inspected by a plumber and possibly replaced.
• Test your garbage disposal to ensure it is functioning properly.
• Make sure that your water heater is set to a safe and optimal temperature. Water temperature should be no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is safe for use and will ensure a longer water heater lifespan.

If you have water damage from a leaking pipe or subsequent mold from water damage, call SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water Everywhere!

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water and moisture can cause both structural and content damage when unnoticed.  Even a small leak, left untreated, can lead to big loses. 

Because mold growth can begin in less than 48 hours, water damage should be handled by trained professionals who have the equipment and knowledge to treat the situation, regardless of the size.

If you experience a water situation there are some things you can do until help arrives;

• Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas when access to the power distribution panel is safe from shock.
• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe water from wood furniture and remove from the wet area, if possible, otherwise place aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Remove from walls or wet areas all items that are valuable or sensitive to moisture - i.e. paintings, art objects, computers, documents, etc.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet flooring.

If you have experienced water damage in recent months, call the professionals at SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf to access your situation and provide fast, effective clean up.

Flooded Basements

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Davenport, Bettendorf, Muscatine or Clinton basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (563) 386-3540

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (563) 386-3540

August 2022 CE Classes!

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is offering two FREE continuing education courses for Iowa and Illinois agents on Thursday, August 11th, 2022. along with a free lunch. The two courses we are offering are taught by Todd Davis. We will be discussing:

Unamsking Ethics in the AM 9 AM-12 PM (3 Credit Hours)

"That Stinks" Mold, Water, and Other Smelly Claims 12:30 PM-4:30 PM (4 Credit Hours)

These classes will be held at Bend XPO Center, 922 Mississippi Parkway East Moline, IL 61244

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf & Moline/Rock Island offers these Continuing Education Classes four times a year. Our team appreciates all that our local insurance agents do for us and our community, and wants to help you succeed in your field.

If you’d like to attend one or both of these classes or have questions please contact SERVPRO at email marketing@SERVPROdavenport.com or call (563)386-3540.

RESTORE Rather than REPLACE

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of the Quad Cities understands that there is much more than emotional trauma that follows after a loss. Alleviating financial stress is a key element of our services.  When a disaster takes control of your life, we will help you take it back!

One of the services that SERVPRO of the Quad Cities provides that you may not be aware of is our Contents Claim Inventory Service. What is the Contents Claim Inventory? It is a physical inventory of your property that aids in keeping costs low and reducing job completion times.

Our Contents Claim Inventory services include:

1. Inventory: A SERVPRO of the Quad Cities technician will provide a room-by-room inventory of all of your belongings and apply a bar code to each item. This service provides all of the information you could need in case of emergency while relieving the time and energy it would take for you to do it yourself...
2. Move-Outs: When a structure undergoes extensive damage, part of the clean-up and restoration process may involve removing and relocating your contents for proper cleaning. At SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we have a professional moving crew that carefully packages and moves your contents to our warehouse for the duration of the cleaning and restoration process.
3. Contents Cleaning: Once we have evaluated what items are salvageable and which items must be replaced, we will carefully clean and restore these items using our professional processes. We always strive to bring your precious possessions back to their original luster, making it “Like it never even happened.”

Choose SERVPRO of the Quad Cities to protect and restore your most valuable assets.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Preparing for Severe Weather

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

One of the easiest ways to protect yourself during severe weather is to have a weather radio in your home or office. It is just as important to have a radio as it is to have a fire alarm according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

A weather radio is designed to alert you of dangerous weather situations. Allows you to be warned in order to be safe. Most major retailers and online stores offer weather radios with these features for around $30. The following are the most important features to look for in a weather radio:

• Reviewable alerts (you can scroll through alerts and turn off the siren for alerts you do not wish to hear).
• Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) alert programming (alerts when specific counties are threatened, ensuring you only receive alerts for your county)..
• Ease of programming.

Remember to be safe and keep track of weather conditions. When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster.

What Can SERVPRO Do for You?

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Many businesses in the Quad Cities are aware that SERVPRO is the company to call for any fire or water damage that they may experience in their commercial property. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities offers a wide variety of services to help businesses.

• Fire, Smoke and Soot Cleanup and Restoration
  One of the services that we’re most commonly known for is fire restoration and cleanup. Pretesting helps us determine what type of fire has taken place, knowing the type of smoke and their behavior patterns are vital to proper restoration. Hiring experts who care is the most important way to fully restore your property after a fire.
• Water Removal and Dehumidification
  Another service that we’re most known for is our water restoration. Our professionally trained technicians are able to identify the source and category of water, then determine the proper course of action to restore any damage. Our top-of-the-line drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage.
• Crime Scene, Biohazard, and Vandalism Cleanup

Our expert technicians are trained to safely and effectively clean biohazardous substances and prepare waste for proper disposal according to OSHA, EPA, and state and local health regulations.

• Mold Mitigation and Remediation

Our professionally trained technicians work to control and remediate mold contaminants while protecting the health and safety of you and your employees.

• Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning

Checking on the ducts in your business or commercial property is important to do at least annually. Our technicians can inspect your HVAC system and ductwork, cleaning services can help restore peak energy efficiency, eliminate any offensive odors or improve indoor air quality for your business.

• Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning and Care

Using the latest IICRC training and state-of-the-art equipment, our technicians can remove entrapped soils from deep within the carpet and backings in your business. We will show you what cleaning options would be best for your carpet’s level of soiling and educate you or your employees about additional soil protection.

• Odor Identification and Deodorization

Finding the source of an odor can sometimes be a challenge in itself. Our team can identify any offensive odors and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate them.

• Upholstery and Drapes: Wet or Dry Cleaning Methods

Our team can inspect and test any fabrics within your business or commercial property to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method to utilize on them.

When you need something done quickly and correctly, be sure to call SERVPRO of the Quad Cities for any of your commercial cleaning needs. We are committed to reducing business interruptions and restoring costs you invest in your business or commercial property.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Team Member Chuck Henson Gives Back to his Community!

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Chuck Henson, the creator of Guardians of the Neighborhood, recently celebrated his one year with the team!

Hey everyone!

It’s Sarah, Digital Marketing Coordinator!  I wanted to take some time and share some recent achievements of one of our team members!

Chuck Henson, our Human Resource and Fleet Manager was recently recognized by KWQC for his involvement in the Milan community! As a lifetime resident, he cares about his community a lot, which is why he created the Guardians of the Neighborhood Facebook page!

This group started with the purpose of preventing and solving crimes, like vandalism and theft, but evolved into so much more! Now the group acts as a digital meeting place for Milan neighborhoods. Chuck even helped organize a block party where the whole community could come together and share good food and even better company!

At SERVPRO, taking pride in our communities is so important. We always do what we can to give back, and that’s why having people like Chuck on our team is so special. If you would like to hear more about Guardians of the Neighborhood, head over to Facebook or KWQC for more info!

Warehouse Cleaning

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

It’s springtime here in the mid-west. Flowers are blooming, creeks are filling along with basements. Your business relies on your warehouse. We can help you keep the disaster downtime to a minimum. SERVPRO of Davenport specializes in water cleanup, fire damage restoration and mold mitigation. Our business is keeping your business running.

Water Removal and Dehumidification – Franchise professionals identify the source and type of water, which determines the proper course of action. Drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage.

Fire, Smoke and Soot cleanup and restoration – SERVPRO of Davenport professionals will have your warehouse cleaned and business back open SERVPRO fast.

Mold Mitigation and Remediation – SERVPRO of Davenport professionals work to control and remove mold contaminants while protecting the health and safety of building occupants.

Call us today to have our professionals help your business stay open for business.

Be ready for the next mid-west disaster

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Iowa Derecho 2020

When a storm is bearing down on your home there is one thing that could prove life saving to your family if the storm causes major damage to home, or neighborhood. This is the Emergency Supply Kit. Every home should have a kit made in case of a massive storm damages your home or business. These are the recommended items that you should have for your Emergency Preparedness Kit for your home or business. 

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3 day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks of bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Local Maps
• Hygiene items
• Important documents such as copies of insurance policies identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container.

Smoke and Soot Cleanup

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

When fire strikes smoke and soot are offenders of damage as well.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities will do an examination of the area, to help determine what type of fire has taken place. Knowing the types of smoke and their patterns are vital to proper restoration. Smoke and soot can be very invasive and penetrate various cavities within your home, causing much more damage than is hidden.

Depending on the type of smoke depends on the type of residue that is left behind. Smoke has two forms, wet (plastic and rubber; low heat, smoldering, odor, sticky. Smoke webs are the most difficult to clean). Then there is dry smoke, (paper and wood, fast-burning, high temperature, heat rises, so smoke will rise as well.)

Some facts on smoke and soot:

1. Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels
2. Smoke flows around plumbing systems
3. The type of smoke greatly affects the restoration process.

Each fire is different, smoke in each fire is different. Each one requires a different solution that is specific to the conditions. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities are professionals and have the correct equipment needed to restore your fire damage. Like it never even happened.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

February 2022 Hometown Hero

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Hand-made tie blankets made by our February Hometown Hero Abby Ehrler. Standing with her is her sister and part of the marketing team.

Hometown Hero in the Quad Cities ~ February 2022

A core value that we hold at SERVPRO is doing good for our community. An important part of that is acknowledging and thanking others who are doing their part to make the Quad Cities a great place to live. That’s why SERVPRO has partnered with KWQC-TV6 to feature a Hometown Hero every month in the Quad Cities!

This month, our hometown hero is Abby Ehrler. Abby is a Sophomore in High School. She is also a cancer survivor. She wanted to give back to kids that were sick; so, she started Abby’s Blankets of Strength. These tie blankets are all handmade her Abby and she donates them to local children’s hospitals.  We are so glad to have Abby Ehrler as a part of our community! To thank them for being our hometown hero, we gifted her a $50 Visa Gift Card and donated $100 to Abby’s Blankets of Strength on their behalf!

Keep an eye out for our next hometown hero! And if someone you know does great things for the Quad Cities, be sure to nominate them at https://www.kwqc.com/page/hometown-hero/#//

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

SERVPRO's of The Quad Cities Water Damage Process

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

When there is water damage, CALL SERVPRO of the Quad Cities; we're here to help!

What is SERVPRO’s Water Damage Process?

In order to start our service and restoration service, you must sign the “Service Authorization Form.” That will allow us to take action immediately.

• 1 hour: from notice of loss SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange for service
• 4 hours: of loss notification, we will be on-site to start mitigation service.
• Detailed Explanation: SERVPRO trained professional will walk you through the process, step-by-step
• Pretesting: a professional will begin pretesting for restorability
• 8 hours: of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person.
• Cleaning & Restoration: will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. We use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.
• Final walk-through: when the work is completed, we will have a final walk-through will be conducted to help ensure your satisfaction.

We also provide references upon request, if it helps and makes you feel more comfortable and confident in us!

So, when we get there, and we need to determine how to proceed; we have a few steps we do.

1. Identify Source
2. Identify the type of water
3. Do a survey to see the extent of the damage and inspect the premises
4. Identify signs of visible growth of mold
5. We will move furniture; if needed
6. Water Extraction
7. Check the carpet pad
8. Do our treatment for odor and disinfectant
9. Disposal, we remove the bad
10. Floor and Wall Inspection
11. Inspect the carpet, remove it if needed
12. Measure the temperature and humidity for drying analysis
13. Use professional drying equipment

Thank you for choosing SERVPRO, we have over 50 years of experience and leadership in fire and water cleanup and restoration. Our goal is to help make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

No Power, No Problem

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

When power is out, no worries. Make sure to follow the steps below, which can help protect yourself, your family, and your employees.

We live in the Midwest…weather changes on a dime. So, when people say seasons changing, we just go with it. Sometimes, things happened and we aren’t prepared. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities wants to help you be prepared for anything.

As the seasons change, weather changes as well. Mother Nature isn’t nice sometimes. It can be from wind, rain, freezing temperature, freezing rain, thunderstorms, snow…whatever the season and weather are, it’s crucial to be prepared. No matter what weather we are having, there is a potential risk of power outages, some more potential than others.

Power outages disrupt our lives and business; we lose communications, water, and sometimes transportation. No power means no banks, no ATMs, no gas stations, and no shopping. More importantly, if there is no power, power outages can cause food to spoil, water contamination, and disrupt medical devices.

How can you protect yourself, your family, and your employees in the event of a power outage? Follow these steps:

• Use generators outdoors only and away from windows,
• Do not use the gas stove to heat your home,
• Keep freezer and refrigerators closed until power is back on,
• Have another way to refrigerate medicines and using power-dependent medical devices,
• Disconnect all appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges,
• Go to an alternate location for cooling and heat if you can,
• Check on your neighbors.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is here to help!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Upcoming February CE Classes

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf Moline/Rock Island is offering FREE CE Classes.

SERVPRO is offering two FREE continuing education courses for Iowa and Illinois agents on Thursday, February 17, 2022. along with a free lunch. The two courses we are offering are taught by Todd Davis. We will be discussing:

Peace of Mind, Living with Ethics in the AM 9 AM-12 PM (3 Credit Hours)

Singing In the Rain, Umbrella Policies in the PM 12:30 PM-4:30 PM (4 Credit Hours)

These classes will be held at Hilton Garden Inn, 959 Middle Rd., Bettendorf, IA 52722.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf & Moline/Rock Island offers these Continuing Education Classes four times a year. Our team appreciates all that our local insurance agents do for us and our community, and want to help you succeed in your field.

If you’d like to attend one or both of these classes or have questions please contact SERVPRO at email marketing@SERVPROdavenport.com or call (563)386-3540.

Fire Restoration Services

1/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Restoration Process is the same for residential or commercial; just on a grander scale.

Fires can be devastating; the aftermath can be even worse. How do you know where to start, what to do, or who to call? SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is your number 1 Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration Company. A trained uniform and equipped SERVPRO professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. We offer several services for fire, smoke, and soot restoration.

Structural Cleaning: after smoke or fire damage, ceiling, walls, woodwork, carpeting, and floors will need to be cleaned thoroughly. A trained professional will pretest to determine the extent of damage and then use specific equipment and cleaning products required to clean and protect different types of surfaces found in your structure.

Contents Cleaning: all of your restorable contents in the affected area will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This would include area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. A SERVPRO professional will carefully inspect and test all fabrics in the structure to determine cleaning methods that are the most appropriate.

Deodorization: SERVPRO professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire and smoke damage. We do not just cover up the smell, we seek out the odor and remove it.

Additional Services we provide if needed board-ups, inventory, move-outs, electronics, and artwork cleaning.

Every fire damage is different and requires a unique solution, but in general, the process stays the same. Damage caused by fire is stressful and confusing, you need a caring expert to help and guide you through the crisis. SERVPRO of Quad Cities has been trusted for more then 2 decades. We will treat you with respect and empathy. Our goal is to help make it… "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Graffiti ~ We've got you covered!

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf Moline/Rock Island has you covered. We are here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Graffiti, what is it? It's a form of visual communication, that is typically illegal. It consists of writing or drawings on walls or other hard surfaces. It can be as simple as written words or as complex as a mural to full detailed paintings.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is more than just a Fire & Water – Cleanup & Restoration company. We have a multitude of services which we offer. Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting, regardless of whether it’s your home or business.

 SERVPRO of the Quad Cities will act quickly to remove vandalism and graffiti from exterior walls. We can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, woods, glass, plastic, and masonry. Call us if you need a cleanup. We will make it, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

RESTORE Rather than REPLACE

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO would rather RESTORE than REPLACE!

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of the Quad Cities understands that there is much more than emotional trauma that follows after a loss. Alleviating financial stress is a key element of our services.  When a disaster takes control of your life, we will help you take it back!

One of the services that SERVPRO of the Quad Cities provides that you may not be aware of is our Contents Claim Inventory Service. What is the Contents Claim Inventory? It is a physical inventory of your property that aids in keeping costs low and reducing job completion times.

Our Contents Claim Inventory services include:

1. Inventory: A SERVPRO of the Quad Cities technician will provide a room-by-room inventory of all of your belongings and apply a bar code to each item. This service provides all of the information you could need in case of emergency while relieving the time and energy it would take for you to do it yourself...
2. Move-Outs: When a structure undergoes extensive damage, part of the clean-up and restoration process may involve removing and relocating your contents for proper cleaning. At SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we have a professional moving crew that carefully packages and moves your contents to our warehouse for the duration of the cleaning and restoration process.
3. Contents Cleaning: Once we have evaluated what items are salvageable and which items must be replaced, we will carefully clean and restore these items using our professional processes. We always strive to bring your precious possessions back to their original luster, making it “Like it never even happened.”

Choose SERVPRO of the Quad Cities to protect and restore your most valuable assets.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Storm Alerts: What do they mean?

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know what all the Weather Alerts mean?

Always check out your local weather station/app for up-to-date information when storms are coming. I know sometimes, when watching the weather or listening to the weather, it can be confusing what they are talking about and what you should do. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities wants to give you some vital information that will help you.

Outlooks: it’s the least serious of weather alerts. Basically, it means bad weather can occur within the next few days to a week.

Advisory: a less serious alert. When they issue an advisory, it means to exercise caution and whatever is to come is not serious but can be an inconvenience.

Watch: a more serious alert. When you see there is a watch, that means we have an increased risk. Be ready, stay on top of the weather. Be ready for it to change quickly.

Warning: the most serious alert. A warning means the weather is happening right now. Seek shelter immediately, protect yourself and your family.

As a reminder, there is no special or specific order in the alerts that can happen. If disaster strikes and you need help, SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is here to help. We are 24/7 with full-service capabilities. We will make it, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Commercial Cleaning Services

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is here to help.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities offers a variety of commercial cleaning services.

Our newest service addition, made necessary with the advent of COVID, is our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned service. What does this service entail? Certified SERVPRO Cleaned is a new standard of clean during these pandemic times that focuses on destroying all the germs and pathogens that can live in and on our surfaces.  This service is comprised of the three C’s:

1. Consult
2. Clean
3. Certify

After a business has gone through the Certified SERVPRO Cleaning service, we will mark the door with a shield sticker, so that patrons are immediately aware upon entrance that this building has been cleaned to the Certified Cleaned standard.  When you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield on a building's door, you can feel safe knowing that it represents a business’s commitment to the safety and security of all their employees, customers, and their community.

Some of our other SERVPRO specialty cleaning services include:

• Air ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Fun Facts About Water...DID YOU KNOW???

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Everything Needs Water to survive!

Did you know? Facts about Water:

Water! Water is essential to Earth's survival! Did you know that water is in everything…all living and breathing species require water and water is everywhere! Water mitigation and restoration are some of the pillars of our services, and so we thought we would list some interesting water facts.

• Many people can hear the difference between pouring hot versus cold water
• Less than 1% of the water supply on Earth can be used as drinking water
• A small drip leaking from a faucet is liable to waste as much as 34 gallons of water per day
• There are an estimated 240,000 water main breaks a year in the United States yearly
  • The aging infrastructure in the US causes a water main break on average every 2 minutes
• Human bones are comprised of 31% water
• Every day, enough rain falls on the United States to cover the entire state of Vermont with over 2 feet of water
• Water can dissolve more substances than any other liquid, including sulfuric acid
• 6,800 gallons of water is required daily to grow enough food for a family of 4

Did you know that an acre of corn will give 4,000 gallons of water per day in evaporation! That’s crazy!

While water is beneficial to life, it can also cause wreak havoc on our lives and our surroundings. So when disaster strikes in the form of standing water, broken pipes, or flooding, don’t forget to call SERVPRO of the Quad Cities for all of your water mitigation emergencies.  SERVPRO is your local Water Cleanup & Restoration Professionals! When disaster strikes, SERVPRO is here to help! 24/7

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

7 Reasons Why you should choose SERVPRO for your Commercial Property, When disaster strikes

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, we are here to help!

SERVPRO understands the extreme anxiety and stress that accompany an event such as when a fire or a water disaster hits your home or business. Our professionally trained staff is readily available to handle these emergencies, and they are committed to minimizing the time and disruption while they restore your property to its original quality. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is a trusted leader in fire and water cleanup, restoration services, pathogen and biohazard cleaning, and much, much, more.

7 reasons to choose SERVPRO for your commercial property’s fire damage and water damage cleanup and restoration.

1. 24-Hour Emergency Response. Timely mitigation is key to controlling damage, downtime, and recovery costs.
2. We keep you fully informed on our processes from start to finish.
3. Reduced Recovery Time. We will help minimize business interruption. We understand when fire, water, or mold damage strikes, it has a negative financial impact on you and your business.
4. Lower Recovery Costs. Our recovery system helps you to save money. Emergency mitigation services help minimize secondary damages, meaning less damage overall. Proper restoration versus replacement of contents is less expensive, and faster recovery lessens loss, making SERVPRO of the Quad cities the best choice in the case of emergency.
5. Emergency Response Profile. Hopefully, your property has an emergency process in place for when a disaster occurs. SERVPRO can help you in developing a well-thought-out contingency plan by coming in and surveying your building and locating all of the important emergency features so that you are ready when disaster hits. When a valid plan is in place, you are more likely to mitigate the problem sooner and lessen the potential damage.
6. Full Line of Services. We have the solutions to all of your cleanup needs, the right equipment, and the proper supplies. Our quality and knowledge in the field far surpass that of regular maintenance staff, making us the leader in disaster management.
7. We are a National Leader in Storm Response. We can help you when you need it the most. If a major catastrophe happens to befall you, we have a nationwide large loss response team; trained and equipped to be of service and to aid local SERVPRO employees in the case of a major disaster. By amplifying our current team with professionals from other parts of the country, we are able to help get you back on your feet faster and more efficiently. 

At SERVPRO, we are the number one Fire and Water cleanup service and restoration company in the nation. Our clients know and trust the SERVPRO name, due to the fact that we have over 54 years in the business. We are a 24 hour a day, 365 days a year service with our goal being to make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

FUN FACTS about SERVPRO of the Quad Cities

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is here to help!

At SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we understand that during life’s stressful times, the last thing anyone wants to worry about is “who are these people coming into my home?” With SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, you can have peace of mind knowing that we perform background checks on each and every one of our employees. These checks are not only performed upon hire but are repeated annually for every SERVPRO employee. Additionally, every employee signs a code of conduct stating that they have not been found guilty of any crime that involves deceit, violence, or assault. At SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we want to give you peace of mind, and know that when you call us, you can trust us! We know we cannot completely alleviate the stress and worry that accompanies a disaster in your home or business, but at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we strive to make the process as trouble-free as possible.

When you see the bright green trucks, you can be confident that you will be in good hands. At SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we treat you and your belongings, your home, and your business, as if they were our own. We take pride in every facet of our business, and when you choose SERVPRO, you can relax knowing that we will always do our best to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

What is IICRC

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Employees are constantly learning and getting certified.

What is IICRC? 

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities has trained uniformed technicians. IICRC stands for The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification; a set of standards and certifications for the inspection, cleaning, restoration industry. All of our SERVPRO employees have to go through several different training processes in crew training, fire restoration, water restoration, and carpet and upholstery cleaning. Certification is given after they have completed the course and passed a test.

SERVPRO franchises is an approved IICRC training school and offer classes in each of those categories. SERVPRO even has its own Applied Structural Drying Training Facility. SERVPRO is a brand you can trust. If disaster strikes, SERVPRO is your number 1 Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration Company. We will make it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Doors Open or Shut While Sleeping, That is the Question.

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Close your doors while sleeping.

Do you close your bedroom doors when sleeping?

Do you feel safer with your bedroom door shut or open while sleeping, which one do you think is safer? Some feel safer with it open because they can hear the smoke alarm; on the other hand, others feel safer with it closed; because they feel it would give them more time. Well, if you thought it was safer to sleep with your door open, you would be wrong! In case of a fire, a closed-door can actually help be a barrier against the levels of carbon monoxide, smoke, and flames.

Reasons, why you should sleep with your door, closed

1. Fires are getting faster; we use to have 17 minutes to escape if there was a fire, now we are down to about 3 minutes.
2. Closing the door buys you time
3. Closed doors act as a barrier; helps slow down the spread
4. Firefighters have changed their ways of approaching a burning home or building.

Some tips and precautions to consider to be safe and prepared.

1. Create and practice a fire escape plan
2. Check your smoke detectors
   1. Remember they do expire
3. Smoke contains many gases that reduce oxygen in the air and can cause disorientation. So, keep those doors shut while sleeping.

If a fire disaster happens, call the professionals. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities offers full-service capabilities 24/7. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”  

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Are You Ready For The Upcoming Colder Months?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to have your home ready for colder months! Fall is the perfect time to do so.

I know, when it’s hot out and miserable you can not wait for the cooler temperature and months to come. Believe it or not, winter is coming; it’ll be here before we know it. So, in the fall, it’s important to take the time to check over your property, to help prevent property damage during the winter months.

We all know that Iowa winters can be harsh and temperatures can be extremely cold.

Here is a fall maintenance checklist

• Stow the mower
• Store hoses and turn off outdoor water
• Drain and turn off sprinkler systems (if you have one)
• Seal crack around doors and windows
• Clean your gutters
• Inspect your roof
• Direct drainage away from your house
• Get your furnace serviced
• Prune all your plants
• Look up the chimney for blockages
• Check dampers make sure they work

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is your #1 Fire & Water – Cleanup & Restoration company. We are here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Sump Pump Failure

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

Always check your sump pump for issues. You do not want a flooded basement.

Sump Pump Failure

Why is my sump pump not working?: First, we should figure out what a sump pump is and what it is supposed to do. A sump pump is a pump that is used to remove water that has accumulated in the pump’s basin. You can usually find them in basements. If they fail; you’ll have standing water, which can cause mold, stench, and create damage to your home.

Have you ever wondered what causes sump pumps to fail? Here are a few reasons why: 

Power Failure: without power, it’s completely worthless. You should have a battery backup in case of power failure.

Frozen Discharge Pipe: if that pipe is not attached correctly, water will gather and eventually freeze.

Switch Stuck in Place: there are several different types of sump float switches. Vertical and tethered are the most common. Verticals work best and tethered are known for getting stuck.

Overworked/Underpowered: not all pumps are the same. Make sure to install the correct horsepower to keep up with the flow of water.

Old Age: It is usually recommended that they be replaced every 5-7 years. Don’t wait until it's too late.

However, if your sump pump does fail and for whatever reason, it fails, SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is here to help. We off 24/7 full-service capabilities.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Fire Myths...DEBUNKED

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure NOT to overload your surge protectors.

Fires can be nice, warm, and cozy especially with a fireplace or campfire, but they can also be extremely dangerous, wreak havoc on forests, homes, and businesses. Regardless of your home or business is effective from damages of a fire, you need to protect yourself, your family, and your property.

Fire damage can start from the spark of a lighter to a lightning strike. 4 Fire Myths people need to know:

1. Smoke Detectors are enough. That’s true. Smoke detectors provide an early warning.
2. Sprinklers Will Cause More Damage. That’s true. The Sprinklers nearest the flame will activate.
3. Electrical Malfunctions Cause Fires. That’s true. Cooking causes more house fires than anything. Heating is second.
4. Flames Post Largest Potential for Damage. That’s true. Flames cause great damage, but it's important to remember that smoke is just as destructive. Smoke is full of toxic chemicals.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities hopes this helps you. Don’t forget to have an evacuation plan in place before a fire starts. It’s always better to be prepared. If a fire disaster happens, before you risk further damage by attempting to clean up the damage yourself, call the professionals at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities. We are available 24-7.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

September is National Preparedness Month

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready...September is National Preparedness Month and we are here to remind everyone to be prepared for any disasters or emergencies.

September is National Preparedness Month

National preparedness month encourages and reminds us to be prepared for disasters or emergencies in our homes, businesses, and communities. Every week of September is a different theme to help you get and be prepared. Disasters don’t wait, make your plan today.

Week 1 September 1-4 Make a Plan: Communicate with your family, friends, and co-workers before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure your plans are up to date. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities can help. We have an Emergency Ready Profile for businesses and your plan should be updated every year.

Week 2 September 5-11 Build a Kit: Now that you have talked about what you need to do in case of a disaster/emergency; now it’s time to build the kit. Gather supplies for a few days for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget about your pets and always update your kit every year.

Week 3 September 12-18 Prepare for Disasters: To limit the impact of a disaster or emergency, know the risk of the disaster. Learn how to make your home stronger and safer when dealing with storms and common hazards. Also, check with your homeowner’s insurance to see what it covers and doesn’t. You might be surprised what is covered and not. Be prepared; not scared

Week 4 September 19-24 Teach Youth About Preparedness: It helps to talk with your children about the risk and possible disasters/emergencies. It helps prepare them so they aren’t as scared and they know what to do if they are separated from you. Educate them and yourselves on what can occur. Don’t wait, communicate!

When disaster strikes, you can be ruined or you can be READY!!! SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is committed to providing fire, water cleanup, and restoration services, 24/7. We will help reduce business and home life interruptions and recovery costs. "Like it never even happened."

Always remember to think ahead have a plan, be prepared for any emergency.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

August 2021 Hometown Hero

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Congratulations Sherry Stauffer, our newest HOMETOWN HERO!

A core value that we hold at SERVPRO is doing good for our community. An important part of that is acknowledging and thanking others who are doing their part to make the Quad Cities and surrounding areas a great place to live. That’s why SERVPRO has partnered with KWQC TV6 to feature a Hometown Hero every month in the Quad Cities!

This month, our hometown hero is Sherry Stauffer, of DeWitt. Sherry has the biggest heart and started an amazing city-wide event in DeWitt, IA, Wear Pink for the Cure. It’s an amazing story of how it started as a hospital luncheon and has grown to a city-wide event. She has an amazing willingness to help others and the community of DeWitt. She has helped bring awareness to Breast Cancer that affects so many people; bringing it out to the open. We are so glad to have Sherry as a part of our community! To thank them for being our hometown hero, we gifted $50 in DeWitt Chamber bucks and donated $100 to Pink for the Cure on her half!

 Keep an eye out for our next hometown hero! And if someone you know does great things for the Quad Cities, be sure to nominate them at https://www.kwqc.com/page/hometown-hero/#//

Smoke Webs

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke webs are not because you have dust or actual spider webs.

Smoke Webs

There are 2 types of smoke; dry and wet. What does that mean?

Wet smoke comes from plastic and rubber; low heat creates smoldering. Moisture makes smoke webs more difficult to clean. Wet smoke is black and surging that rises quickly.

Dry smoke comes from paper and wood; fast burning high temperatures. Dry smoke residue is usually powdery and dry. The fine powder is simpler to clean. You just wipe it off, but the smell will stick around.

What are smoke webs?

• Clustered in cobweb-like shapes in corners of the room:
•  When plastics burn, the smoke carries a stronger charge than when wood, cotton, or paper burns. Sometimes, this causes the smoke residue to form “smoke webs” where the walls and ceiling come together.
• Synthetic Substance Odors
• Burned synthetic residue can create smoke webs visible where walls and corners meet the ceiling.
• These smoke webs are called soot tags.

Smoke webs look a lot like cobwebs; however, they have nothing to do with having cobwebs or dust before the fire.

What causes soot tags/smoke webs? The soot particles bond together and cling to walls, ceilings.

How would you get rid of soot tags/smoke webs?

1. First, use a vacuum and remove all loose soot.
2. Next, use a dry-cleaning sponge to carefully wipe the remaining soot.
3. Lastly, use a degreaser to wash the surface. Switch out the water frequently and wring out your rag or sponge frequently and use a dry clean towel to dry the wall when finished.

Our trained professionals at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities understand the importance of removing soot and any damage. If you experience a fire in your home or business, call SERVPRO of the Quad Cities to take care of your fire, smoke, and soot damage for you!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Water Damage Restoration Process: 6 Steps

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

It takes patience and time for things to dry out.

Every flood and water damage situation is different, which means each one has a different solution that works best for its specific condition. Regardless of the situation, the water restoration process remains the same. Here is our 6-step process for a typical water-damaged property.

Step 1: Emergency Contact ~ the process begins the moment you call us! When you call, you should expect us to ask several questions regarding your emergency. These questions will help us determine what to bring.

Step 2: Inspection ~ we will do a detailed inspection of your home or property; which will include an assessment. We will check for the source of the water. Then we will determine the type of water. The type of water will affect the specific restoration process we use. We will then survey the damage. Also, we will move furniture and property contents to help prevent rust and stains, if needed.

Step 3: Water Removal ~ after the inspection and assessment, the water extraction begins. Our trained technicians will begin the water removal process. Then they will inspect the carpet and carpet pad; which may have to be removed, to protect the subfloor. The water removal equipment will detect moisture. We will use infrared cameras to see any hidden damage or water within the walls and ceiling.

Step 4: Drying ~ once all the water has been removed the drying process begins. We use dehumidification equipment, monitor it, and track its progress on all that was affected. Our drying equipment is to help prevent more damage.

Step 5: Cleaning ~ your walls, flooring, the ceiling will more likely require professional cleaning. We will do that along with cleaning your furniture, clothes, restorable belongings. We have the restore rather than replace mentality. We will also help get rid of any odor as well. We will also dispose of all damaged materials for you.

Step 6: Restoration ~ the process of restoring your home to pre-water damage condition! Restoration may include minor repairs.

SERVPRO can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial water damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keep costs low.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Emergency Ready Program

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

We are here to help! Let us help you get a plan in place.

If disaster strikes, you can be ruined or you can be ready! We offer Emergency Ready Program to businesses for FREE.   SERVPRO professionals can provide you assistance in developing an Emergency Ready Profile. Emergency Ready Profile will contain information you need in the event an emergency situation occurs.

50% of businesses close down following a disaster, however, according to the latest research, the businesses that do survive, the majority had a plan in place. This is a no-cost assessment of your facility. This is a document that contains only critical information needed in the event of an emergency.

Our Emergency Ready Program is essentially a guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster. It helps to identify the line of command for authorizing work to begin. It also will provide facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and contact information. Having this quick reference guide helps you be “Ready for whatever happens.”

Many businesses have an emergency plan put in place, but very few have a plan to get back into their building. Give SERVPRO of the Quad Cities a call and let us help you be ready for anything.  SERVPRO is here for the community and offers full-service capabilities that deliver 24/7 services. We will make it, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

What is your ideal room temperature?

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

The ideal room temperature is different for everyone, it is a daily battle to find a happy medium.

How many of you at work fight over the thermostat?? It’s always a battle what should the temperature be. It is a daily battle, someone is either too cold or too hot. People in your office are probably turning the thermostat up and down several times a day! It’s no secret that finding the right temperature is important and not everyone will be pleased. So, what’s your ideal temperature?

It used to be that the ideal temperature was 70-73 degrees was the best temperature. However, new studies show that warmer is better. 77 degrees is where they say it should be.  OSHA's recommendations for workplace air treatment set federal standards for temperature and humidity levels. Regardless of business size, the minimum temperature for indoor workplaces is 68 degrees Fahrenheit and the maximum is 76 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are a few factors to consider when trying to figure out the perfect temperature for your workplace.

1. How many women are in the office?
   1. They say women work more in warmer weather
2. How many windows are in the office?
   1. Large windows will bring more natural sunlight and will make it warmer
3. How tall are the ceilings?
   1. High ceilings create drafts, which will make it feel cooler.
4. Humidity?
   1. Don’t forget to factor in humidity. When it's humid people are more likely to feel tired and sweat more. Although when it’s cooler, it could cause dryness. 40% humidity is what you want year-round.

Don’t forget if you need fire & water cleanup and restoration to call the # 1 company, SERVPRO of the Quad Cities. We are 24/7 with full-service capabilities. We are here to help. No job is too small or too big!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

One Year Anniversary of Derecho

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

Some of the damage from Derecho 2020

Today August 10, 2021, marks the one-year anniversary of the Derecho storm that passed through the Quad Cities we can recall the damage that was inflicted by 100mph winds. Quad Cities businesses and residents experienced long periods of no power, roof damage, trees down on their property, damaged power lines, and personal property damage.

As we reflect on the dangerous and devastating events surrounding last year’s storms, it’s important to know what to do in the future. We learned last year that it’s important to know how to prepare for long periods without power - consider installing a generator for your home or business, invest in flashlights, portable chargers for your phones, and battery-operated radios or televisions. We also learned that it’s important to have a safe space in your home or business to retreat to in the event of a storm. Having tarps on hand to cover any areas on your property before it can be fixed is important and be sure to have an emergency supply of food, medicine, and water in your home in case you can’t get to a store right away.

Just like SERVPRO helped last year after the Derecho storm, we are Here to Help® for future storm events. We will help clean up and mitigate the damage that any storm inflicts on your property. Stay safe, Quad Cities!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

How to Stay Safe and Prepared for Extreme Heat

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

Midwest can be HOT, Brutally HOT!

Summers in the Midwest can be brutally HOT! How do you survive in extreme heat? Well, heatwaves are normal for this time of year… have a plan, make an emergency kit with plenty of water for everyone in your household.  Heatwaves are dangerous, especially for the young and elderly.

Some facts about extreme heat:

• Death Valley, in California, is said to be the hottest location on Earth
  • The highest temperature was July 10, 1913, at 134 degrees
• The deadliest heatwave happened in Russia in 2010 killing 56,000 people
• The longest continuous heatwave recorded lasted 101 days, in Arizona in 1937
• In the US, heatwaves kill more people than any other natural disaster
• Heatwaves in the last few years, have become more common and are lasting longer

 We have some safety tips for you.

• Stay hydrated
• Wear light-colored loose-fitting clothes
• Pay close attention to babies and elderly
• Keep windows and blinds closed during the hottest part of the day
• Learn symptoms of heat-related illnesses are: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heatstroke…
• Don’t drink soda or alcohol
• Try not to use the oven, just makes it hotter inside your home
• Never ever leave people or animals in cars

We are here to help!

SERVPRO offers full-service capabilities 24/7. Our goal is to help make it…Like it never even happened.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

The Smallest Fire Can Leave Odors in Your Home for Years

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Damage; SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is your #1 Fire Restoration Company.

Fire, smoke, soot damages in your home can create unpleasant and permanent problems if not addressed properly. When a fire breaks out, various materials burn, the smoke that is produced travels through the home leaving an odor and residue. Unfortunately, these damages are often made more severe when unprepared homeowners attempt to perform the cleanup themselves.

SERVPRO professionals understand how disruptive fires can be for you and your entire family. SERVPRO offers 24/7 services for emergency response, we have trained uniformed technicians on-site of fire damage within hours of an emergency. We can have all your restorable items that are affected cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. We don’t cover up lingering odors, we seek to out the source and remove it.  So, before you risk doing any more damage by attempting to clean it yourself, call SERVPRO of the Quad Cities!

Here are our normal Service Response Guidelines

~ within 1 hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO Professionals will contact you to arrange service

~ with 4 hours of loss of notice, we will be onsite to start mitigation

~ with 8 hours of on-site arrival a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Pet Fire Safety

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

Don't forget about your pets when you are making your fire evacuation plan.

Fires are devastating, losing a pet is just awful! The best way to protect your pets is to include them in your fire evacuation plan. 

Keep pets near entrances when you are not home, collars on, and leashes ready in case firefighters need to rescue them.

Secure Young Pets…keep them away from potential fire-starting hazards.

Use a pet Window Cling that lets local rescuers know you have pets, and if needed they can try to find and locate them.

Pets left alone can’t escape a burning home. Consider using smoke detectors that are connected to a monitor.  

Pets are actually responsible for starting over 1,000 fires each year and over 500,000 pets are affected annually by fires.

A few tips for your pet from starting a fire

• Get rid of stove knobs
  • The most common way pets start a fire
• Put out open flames
  • Pets are naturally curious and drawn to open flames
• Use flameless candles
  • Pets can easily knock down candles when running or agitated.
• Secure the fireplace
  • Even with a mesh screen in front of your fireplace, a small spark or coal can land on carpet or pets’ hair. Don’t allow your pet to lay in front of the fireplace.

If you have a fire disaster,  let us help you take back control and help you clean, restore, and deodorize your home and belongings. Our goal is to help make it…Like it never even happened.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Hometown Hero July 2021

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

Jim Carter and His Family, July's HOMETOWN HERO

A core value that we hold at SERVPRO is doing good for our community. An important part of that is acknowledging and thanking others who are doing their part to make the Quad Cities a great place to live. That’s why SERVPRO has partnered with KWQC TV6 to feature a Hometown Hero every month in the Quad Cities!

This month, our hometown hero is Jim Carter. He’s a talented carpenter, has a big heart, and amazing kindness. He loves giving his time and talents to those in need. Jim likes to operate under the radar, he never says no; just finds a way to help. We are so glad to have Jim Carter as a part of our community! To thank them for being our hometown hero, we gifted $50 to one of our favorite local restaurants, The Machine Shed, and donated $100 to The Sacred Heart Foundation on their behalf!

Keep an eye out for our next hometown hero! And if someone you know does great things for the Quad Cities, be sure to nominate them at https://www.kwqc.com/page/hometown-hero/#//

SERVPRO OFFERS COMMERCIAL CLEANING

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is here to help.

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on us to make your workspace look its very best.

Also with a changing world, we have a new standard of clean. Help let your employees; customers feel safer when at work. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned! Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of the Quad Cities to bring a higher standard of cleanliness to the places we gather.

We offer cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

HEAT WAVE...STAYING COOL

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

It's a hot day! WOW!

Heatwaves can occur almost anywhere in the country. The best way to overcome heat is to be prepared. Here are 10 tips to help you stay cool and be prepared when a heatwave strikes.

1. Find the coolest area of your home. Basements are the coolest because heat rises.
2. Drink more beverages. Even if you are not thirsty. However, stay away from hot drinks, and alcoholic beverages
3. Avoid eating protein-rich meals. Your body heat will increase as a result of increased metabolic rate. Eat lighter and more frequent meals
4. Take a cool bath or shower. They should be right below the body’s temperature. Cold showers are not a good idea because they will make your body generate heat.
5. Wear light-colored loose clothes. Avoid dark colors, they absorb the heat rather than reflect like light colors
6. Avoid exercise and strenuous heat. If you must do, choose to do so in the early morning or evenings when its cooler
7. Place ice cubes or run cold water on your pulse points. Do this every couple of hours to help cool yourself off. Your pulse points are areas on your body where blood circulates close to the skin.
8. Spritz yourself with water and stay in front of a fan, in that water evaporates from your body to cool off.
9. Unplug appliances or electronics you are not using. Electronics such as tv can consume electricity that converts into heat.
10. Don’t forget that pets can be affected by heat. Don’t forget about your fur babies. Symptoms of heatstroke in animals: hot skin, wide eyes, excessive drooling, twitching muscles, and sometimes vomiting.

Proper ventilation is almost as important to maintain a comfortable temperature. Stay safe, cool, and know that SERVPRO of Quad Cities is here for you. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

July Living Local Biohazard Cleaning

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

We are your Biohazard Clean-up Team.

July Living Local Biohazard Cleaning

When emergencies happen in your home, including those that leave us exposed to toxins and contaminants, those situations can be dangerous.

This week on Living Local, Jason, our General Manager, talks about what we can do to help with biohazard cleanups, and why it’s important to call the professionals.

Take a minute to watch! https://youtu.be/WRMQjtYK7_A

A failure to properly remove biological and chemical contaminants can contribute to unhealthy and dangerous environments. Our team of professionals is well trained to safely and effectively clean biohazardous substances.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities provides cleanup and recovery services for many biohazard situations. The most common ones are sewage backups, bloodborne pathogens, meth labs, and COVID-19. Biohazard emergencies don’t always happen during regular business hours; that’s why we are available 24/7. SERVPRO is a trusted brand.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

June's Hometown Hero

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Congratulations Pennie, on being the First Hometown Hero.

Hometown Hero in the Quad Cities

A core value that we hold at SERVPRO is doing good for our community. An important part of that is acknowledging and thanking others who are doing their part to make the Quad Cities a great place to live. That’s why SERVPRO has partnered with KWQC to feature a Hometown Hero every month in the Quad Cities!

This month, our hometown hero is Pennie Kellenberger, she is actively changing and helping her community and its youth, by reaching out to help bring new resources for her community.  We are so glad to have Pennie as a part of our community! To thank her for being our hometown hero, we gifted $50 to one of our favorite local restaurants, The Machine Shed, and donated $100 to Argrow’s House on her behalf!

Keep an eye out for our next hometown hero! And if someone you know does great things for the Quad Cities, be sure to nominate them at https://www.kwqc.com/page/hometown-hero/#//

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

MOLD: It's more common than you know

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

MOLD: So many types and is more common than you know. Mold in a basement...it can spread so fast.

DID YOU KNOW THAT MOLD IS VERY COMMON?

Molds are common in homes and buildings. Mold will grow in places with a lot of moisture, leaky roofs, windows, pipes, or anywhere flooding has taken place. There are 12 different types of molds.

1. Acremonium
   1. Toxigenic, which evolves over time. Acremonium mold is often pink, grey, orange, or white in color. Acremonium typically grows in household systems and areas such as condensation from humidifiers, cooling coils, drain pans, and window sealants.
2. Alternaria
   1. A most common form of allergenic mold; typically grows where there is dampness (showers, bathtubs, and below leaky sinks. Most common species of mold that appears as a result of water damage
   2.  It spreads quickly
3. Aspergillus
   1. Common mold found in American households. There are over 185 species and in many different colors.
   2. It’s capable of becoming toxic.
4. Aureobasidium
   1. An allergenic mold; can be found growing behind wallpaper or on painted wooden surfaces. It appears, pink, brown, or black usually.
5. Chaetomium
   1. Commonly found in water-damaged homes and buildings; has a cotton-like texture and changes color over time.
   2. Chaetomium mold can grow in places such as your roof, basement foundation, or leaky pipes. Cutting off the moisture problem at the source will prevent this mold type from returning repeatedly.
6. Cladosporium
   1. Can grow in both warm and cold places. It thrives in indoor materials such as carpets, fabrics
7. Fusarium
   1. Growing and spreads in cold temperatures; toxic mold that can grow in homes with water damage and its usually pink-reddish color
   2. It will spread quickly.
8. Mucor
   1. Allergenic mold grows in thick patches and is often white or greyish. Grows quickly.
9. Penicillin
   1. It’s allergenic; easily recognizable because it's blue or green and has a velvet-like texture. Can be found in water-damaged buildings
   2. It’s helpful for antibiotic production and food processing. Their spores can easily become airborne.
10. Stachybotrys
    1. KNOWN AS BLACK MOLD, toxic, loves damp, wet high humidity areas
    2. It’s greenish-black in color, known for growing on woods, cardboard, paper. 
11. Trichoderma
    1. The allergenic mold that appears in white and green patches and grows in homes on wet surfaces
    2. It actually has 5 different types. It thrives in moist areas, you can find it AC filters, HVAC system ducts. 
12. Ulocladium
    1. Loves wetness and water…like most molds. Usually black in color. Usually found in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and around the windows.

All types of molds can be easily confused with another type. Calling a professional is always a good idea; if you suspect mold growing in your home or building. Stay healthy! We are a 24/7 company that offers full service. Our goal is to help make it…"Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Did you know, the category of water can affect the way the cleanup and restoration goes

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage to carpet...

Identify the Type of Water

We will identify the category and classification of water damage to ensure our professionals restore your property based on industry guidelines. The level of contamination of the water will affect the specific restoration processes we use.

• Category 1: "Clean Water"
• Water that does not pose a threat to humans.
• Examples: broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows.
• Category 2: "Gray Water"
• Water that is contaminated in some way, could cause discomfort or illness if ingested.
• Examples: toilet overflow with urine, dishwasher overflow, washing machine overflow
• Category 3: "Black Water"
• Water that is grossly contaminated with pollutants including fungi and bacteria.
• Examples: sewage, toilet backflows, flooding from seawaters, flooding from rivers and streams.

It depends on the type of water, which determines the proper course of action. Drying equipment controls temperature and humidity which will help minimize secondary damage.

If disaster strikes, know that you can count on SERVPRO. We are your #1 Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration company. Our goal is to help make it…"Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Stressed? Let SERVPRO help

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help!

STRESSED? IT WILL BE OKAY!!!!

When Fire and Water take control of your life, we help you take it back.

Here at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we understand that no damage is small when it comes to your home. Your home is a reflection of you. Suffering damage can make your home feel like a part of you has been damaged. We recognize that a loss of any kind can make you vulnerable. Each loss is unique. SERVPRO is the trusted choice of hundreds of insurance companies nationwide.

So why SERVPRO:

• We are recognized as the industry leader
• We have been serving communities for 54 years
• We are IICRC Approved for 5 cleaning and Restoration Categories
  • Fire
  • Water
  • Carpet
  • Upholstery
  • ASD (Applied Structural Drying)
• When you call a SERVPRO franchise, you can expect
  • A fast response
  • Convenient services
  • Damage containment
  • Extensive experience
  • Vast resources
• Our performance results from having the best people, training, and resources in the business.

We are the real thing…we have real value. We will respond quickly, providing a full line of services to help ensure a faster recovery. We provide a consistent service and reliable information. Our goal is to help make it…"Like it never even happened."

 SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

What to do after a storm

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Damage! Tree fell on home

You can reduce some of the damage caused by a storm by following this checklist:

1. Check your home for any damage

Not all storms have damage or at least damage you can see immediately, checking your home’s condition will help give you a clearer picture of the extent of the damage left by the storm if any.

2. Assess the potential damage

Some homes are more susceptible to damage than others; just like storms don’t discriminate, they just happen. Your roof is a vulnerable spot; some common signs of roof damage are: split seams, dented, broken or missing shingles, holes in the roof, leaks in your ceiling.  Some other areas would include doors, windows, and frames.

3. Get in touch with your insurance provider

HELP is on the way! Document the damage and loss that has been caused by the storm. Take photos before moving or beginning cleaning up efforts. Also, remember to hold on to all and any receipts. Once all information is put together your insurance agent will determine your coverage.

4. Only attend to the damage you are capable of handling.

Not all damage from the storm is extensive, you may be able to restore what little damage exists with a few repairs before seeking professionals.

5. Choose the right contractor

Once you have done all that…make sure you do your research and hire a professional, trustworthy, cleaning & restoration service company. It’s essential that your house is once again a habitable, healthy, living environment.

While storms can wreak catastrophic damages upon a home or commercial buildings, promptly addressing the storm damage—first, to make emergency patches and then to take care of longer-term restoration—will go a long way in getting your home or business back to normal. 

SERVPRO is the leading storm damage restoration company that has served the Quad Cities for 54 years. They can handle all aspects of the restoration process, from water removal to debris cleanup.

For more information about storm damage cleanup and restoration call us!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Fireworks Safety

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

18,500 fires are started by fireworks each year.

Fireworks Safety

The 4^th of July is just around the corner; Happy Birthday America!!! There are thousands of reported firework-related injuries and fires every year. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to the professionals.

Fireworks are used to mark special events and holidays.

Some fun facts:

1. More than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks
2. Burns account for 44% of injuries treated in the ER that are seen around the 4th of July
3. Hands, fingers, toes, and eyes are at the highest risk of injury
4. Children ages 10-14 have the highest rate of firework injuries
5. Sparklers account for ¼ of ER firework injuries

Safety Tips

1. Use only legal fireworks; know your local laws
2. Keep water close
3. Keep your distance
4. Fireworks should only be used outdoors
5. Never let children play with or light fireworks
6. Never point fireworks at yourself or others
7. Soak them in water after use before throwing them in the trash
8. Never try to relight a dud

Some ideas to celebrate without using fireworks

1. Use glow sticks,
2. Be loud and proud, use a different safer noisemaker
3. Do a movie night outdoors
4. Find silly string…have silly string battles
5. Have crafts…
6. Don’t forget the cake!

Stay safe!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Water and Electrical Don't Mix

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Safety first. Water and Electricity don't mix. Stay safe and follows these common tips

It’s that time of year, SUMMER! Do you want a  pool or spa? Well besides being concerned about drowning, you need to think about the dangers of deadly shock. What is deadly shock? A severe medical condition. Here are some essential pool and spa electrical safety tips.

• Keep all outdoor receptacles covered and dry
• Make sure all equipment is grounded. It helps prevent electrocutions and electric shock
• All cords and devices should be at least 10 feet away from water
• You should try to use battery-operated appliances
• Make sure you do not touch any of the electrical pieces wet
• Make sure all power lines are not hovering over the pool or spa
• Do not swim during a thunderstorm, before or after
• An electrician should inspect and upgrade your pool or spa to avoid electric shock.

Remember any electrical devices pose a safety risk with water. SERVPRO is your # 1 trusted company in Fire & Water – Cleanup & Restoration. Our goal is to help make it…"Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

July 2021 CE Classes

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

Free CE Classes offered.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is offering two FREE continuing education courses for Iowa and Illinois agents on Wednesday, July 14th, along with a free lunch. The two courses we are offering are taught by Todd Davis. We will be discussing:

21^st Century Ethics in the AM 9 AM-12 PM (3 Credit Hours)

                                IL Course # 6000094954 and IA Course # 105867

The Insurance Blender, Mixing Insurance in the PM 12:30 PM-4:30 PM (4 Credit Hours

                                IL Course # 6000094944 and IA Course # 105200

 SERVPRO of the Quad Cities offers these Continuing Education Classes four times a year. Our team appreciates all that our local insurance agents do for us and our community, and want to help you succeed in your field.

If you’d like to attend one or both of these classes or have questions please contact SERVPRO at email marketing@SERVPROdavenport.com or call (563)386-3540

How To Help Ease Your Child's Fear of Storms

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

How to calm children during storms

It's that time of year here in the Midwest, the chance of severe storms and/or tornadoes are normal. Some children are scared of the storm itself, but also what can happen during a storm and the aftermath of the storm. The possibility of flooding, a tree falling on their house, car accidents, lightning striking their home, or even windows breaking. It can be very scary for them. We wanted to talk about children can have fears of storms, any kind of storm.

Some tips to help you ease your children’s fear of storms.

1. Acknowledge their fear, talk about it
2. Explain what the storm is? What’s going on?
3. Teach them a safety routine, EDUCATE THEM
4. Provide extra comfort/stay together
5. Stay calm, children are so observant
6. Keep them busy
7. Make a snack
8. BE HONEST

Let them know there are always people to help if disaster strikes, at home, work, or school. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities offers full-service capabilities with 24/7 service, we will respond quickly to assess the amount of damage and options to clean it up. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Clean Homes Sell Faster Living Local

6/23/2021 (Permalink)

Living Local SERVPRO tips. Clean homes sell faster

It’s a seller’s market right now!

Selling a house and getting ready to move can be stressful and time-consuming, plus trying to keep the house spotless is tough for those last-minute showings. Real estate agents say it’s worth it. We at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities say it’s true, a clean, fresh-smelling home does sell faster. We offer a variety of services to help refresh your home to top show condition.

This week on Living Local, Ken talks about what we do to help sell your home faster and why you should invest in it.

Take a minute to watch! https://youtu.be/SUOQ600egOk

Not only is it important to have a licensed-bonded professional for cleaning, and repairs that may need to be made; it also helps sell faster, and less chance of running into problems with insurance agencies.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities wants to help you sell your home faster! When people walk in to take a look let us help you make it look great and smell wonderful.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Warmer Weather Backyard Fire Safety!

6/11/2021 (Permalink)

Summers are for backyard fun!

BACKYARD SAFETY TIPS FROM HAVING A FIRE!

As the weather gets warmer, we tend to be outside more. We are using grills, fire pits, patio heaters, guess what; they all carry a risk of having a backyard fire. Here at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities, we want to help you stay safe from any backyard fires, here are a few tips to help have a safe, fun, relaxing summer enjoying your backyards with family and friends.

Fire Pits:

Keep all flammable items away from the pit

Keep it at least 10 feet from structures

Watch out for electrical wires

Keep an eye on kids and pets

Patio Heaters:

Only use them in well-ventilated areas, i.e., outdoors

NEVER use indoors

Don’t use them when it's windy

Keep an eye on kids and pets

Know how to shut off if needed

Grilling:

Propane and charcoal should be used only outside

Keep away from home, railings, and fences

Make sure to remove the grease

Always supervise the grill…never leave it unattended

So, if you are having a get-together, please follow these helpful tips.

As always, if a fire breaks out…you know who to call. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities will help you, we offer full-service capabilities with 24/7 service and will respond quickly to assess the damage and your best options. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Staying Safe During Severe Storms

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Severe Storm Safety

The majority of the U.S. is at risk for severe weather. Here in the Midwest, we get snowstorms, extreme cold, torrential rains, flooding, lightning, and severe thunderstorms with and without tornadoes. All things that can wreak havoc in your lives. Here are some safety tips on keeping your family safe and prepared for the unexpected weather!

1. Have a plan…where to go, meet, and don’t forget your pets. When making your plan make sure you have 2 ways in and out of the house if you need to evacuate.
2. Stay out of the water; even if it’s only a few inches deep; it can be dangerous
3. Stay away from power lines and always report downlines
4. To prevent any electrical damage, unplug your electrical items, that could possibly be affected by lightning strikes
5. If winter, make sure the driveway and entryway to the house is clear of snow and ice
6. Lastly, make sure your house number is visible

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is Here to Help ® after the storm has passed! Stay safe and know that when disaster strikes, we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Air Conditioners Can Cause Water Damage...HOW TO AVOID

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

You can avoid your air conditioner leaking water.

It’s that time of year again, temperatures rise, we shut the windows and turn on our air conditioners. Did you know that air conditioners can cause water damage?

Your HVAC may need some maintenance if you notice leaking or lingering smells. Water damage of any kind can create mold or a build-up of mold.

A few ways to help prevent water damage from your air conditioner:

Change your filter: that should be changed once a month

Keep it clean: they can collect dirt or leaves random objects. If not clean it won’t work properly, because it needs airflow to work properly

Keep Drain Line clear: make sure the water is flowing to the drain. Check lines, make sure drainage holes are clear

Install a pump: A condensation pump; will help extra water flow to drain.

No one wants to deal with water damage, and it can be annoying but more so costly if not taken care of properly. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is here to help, we offer full-service capabilities with 24/7 services. We will respond quickly to assess the damage and will make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Are you Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is reaching out to let you know of a defensive cleaning program we offer, Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. We are offering this service because we know that getting back to business relies on getting your customers back through your doors.  That will only happen if they feel comfortable and secure in your space. 

Things are getting back to normal slowly, however, to keep it continuing we need to be proactive. 

We are putting our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned logo across America to help businesses like yours communicate that you have committed to a higher standard of cleanliness for your customers and employees.

Our program is grounded with our unique 3 Cs: Consult, Clean, and Certify! 

Consult: a tailored cleaning program to meet your needs

Clean: Protective and COVID-19 emergency response cleaning program

Certify: a commitment to clean for your employees and consumers

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

June is National Safety Month

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that June is National Safety Month?

JUNE IS NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH!

National Safety Month is a month-long observance in the US, it was established in 1996 by the National Safety Council, whose objective was to increase awareness of home and workplace safety. Ultimately decrease the number of injuries and deaths.

Throughout the month they talk about several topics in the past to help your family and employees stay safe. Some of those topics were

1. Emergency Preparedness
2. Wellness
3. Don’t Just Sit There
4. Falls
5. Driving
6. Prepare for Active Shooters

In 2021, the weekly topics are:

1. Prevent Incidents Before They Start: Identify risks, take proactive safety measures
2. COVID-19 Safety: the pandemic is still going; we are trying to get back to normal as possible. Employers play a vital role in return to the workplace.
3. Feeling safe on the job/at work: they are going to focus on physical safety as well as psychological safety
4. Advance the journey: Safety is an everyday thing…always needing improvement.

If disaster strikes, at home or work, know that SERVPRO of the Quad Cities offers full-service capabilities with 24/7 service, we will respond quickly to assess the amount of damage. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Grilling Season

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe, be alert, man grilling!

Grilling Season

You can smell it in the air, the days are getting longer, friends and family stay later, temperatures are rising, and summer is already shaping up. Summer season is for grilling, however, with that being said it’s also peak time for grilling-related house fires.

Here are a few safety tips to follow before you grill:

1. Clean all racks and grease trays.
2. If you use a gas grill, check the tank for any possible leaks
3. Always keep your grill 10 feet away from structures
4. Make sure your grill is level and on a firm flat service
5. Make sure pets and kids aren’t running or playing around the grill
6. Just be alert and careful

BE SAFE!

If you’re grilling and disaster strikes, SERVPRO of the Quad Cities are your #1 fire and water cleanup company. We offer an array of full-service capabilities and are available 24/7!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Nominate Your Hometown HERO

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

HOMETOWN HERO sponsored by SERVPRO and KWQC-TV6

Nominate Your Hometown Hero

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is all about community and helping others. 

Memorial Day is right around the corner, and it's a day when we are supposed to pause and thank the people who fought for what we have; heroes! 

What makes a hero? A hero is selfless, a genuinely good person, brave, caring, determined, helpful, inspirational, protective and causes change, and is someone willing to risk their own lives to save another. Someone who would do anything for anyone without wanting anything in return.

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities and KWQC-TV6 wants to salute a Hometown Hero who serves our community and makes a difference.

Every day, ordinary people work hard to make a difference in their community. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities has partnered with KWQC-TV6 to help give them the recognition they deserve. Once a month, KWQC-TV6 will bring their stories on Quad Cities Today and KWQC-TV6 News at 5. Each winner will receive a special gift, courtesy of SERVPRO of the Quad Cities!

Click on the link to nominate your hero!

https://www.kwqc.com/page/hometown-hero/#//

Living Local The Difference Professional Water Extracting Makes

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Our General Manager Jason Delzell with Living Local Host Mikhayla Hughes-Shaw

The Difference Professional Extracting Makes

With all of the rain that we are seeing in the Quad Cities these last couple of weeks, some of us may be experiencing water in our homes or basements. While it can be tempting to try and take care of the water damage yourself, it’s important to realize that a shop vacuum can leave a lot of moisture behind in your carpet pad! This week on Living Local, Jason and Dalton demonstrated the huge difference between professional water extraction and a shop vacuum.

Take a minute to watch the difference! 

https://youtu.be/Ilbgd0TqCxY

Not only is it important to have professional equipment to remove water from your home or business. It’s important to have experts who know what they’re doing! Like Jason mentioned, all of our technicians at SERVPRO of the Quad Cities are professionally trained water technicians that are held to IICRC standards.

We hope these Spring showers are only helping your plants thrive, but should they be entering your home as well give us a call! We can make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Keeping Your Employees Safe

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

It's important to keep your workplace safe.

As a business owner, you know how important it is to keep your valued employees safe. Having proper smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, security cameras and other safety equipment is a great place to start. What if there is a tornado though? Do your employees know the safest place to escape to? Or a broken pipe? Do your employees know how to respond? More than having equipment in place, it’s important that your staff is well informed and knows how to respond in an emergency.

We recommend sitting down once a year on your own or with a leadership team to create a list of disasters that could happen and create plans for how you and your employees should respond. Then sit down with your team and review individual roles and responsibilities for different emergency situations. Make sure every new hire is aware of the plans you have in place to keep them safe and gather emergency contact information as a part of your hiring process.

Remember that SERVPRO is always Here to Help®. Let us set up an Emergency Response Plan for your business so you have shutoff and contact information for your business in one location. Should  disaster ever strike your business, call us to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Above and Beyond Residential Cleaning

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

"Like it never even happened."

We always promote the dramatic changes we can make when disaster strikes… but what if that disaster comes in the form of a bad tenant? Not to worry, we can do that too!

Check out these dramatic before and after photos of a residential clean that our crew took on! They went above and beyond by not only taking out all of the trash and scrubbing every surface, but they even took the time to decorate and arrange some items they found.

When hiring a company to take care of you during such stressful times, it’s important to make sure they will go above and beyond with the best attitude. That’s why SERVPRO of the Quad Cities should always be your first call when disaster strikes in any form! 

If you have a residential cleaning that needs to be done, call SERVPRO of the Quad Cities. We are Here to Help® with your job, no matter how big or small!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Tornado Safety

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Now is the time to be prepared for Tornadoes.

In the midst of tornado season for the Quad Cities, it’s a great time to review some basic safety tips!

First things first, knowing when a tornado is coming. A tornado watch is issued when there is a possibility that a tornado could occur. It usually covers a broad area and lasts a longer period of time. A tornado warning is issued when severe weather is actually happening. Usually, a tornado warning is a siren that sounds a steady tone for three minutes. Under a tornado warning, it’s important to retreat to a safe place.

Where is a safe place? A basement or a room on the lowest floor toward the center of your home without windows. Do not stay in a mobile home and if you’re in a car, find the nearest shelter. If you cannot find any shelter while driving, lie flat in the nearest ditch and cover your head with your hands.

It’s important to be prepared in case of a tornado. Keep fresh batteries and a battery-operated radio or TV that you can stay up to date on weather conditions. Have a flashlight, water, non-perishable foods, and medications in an emergency kit. Be sure that your kids know what to do during a tornado either at home or at school.

Remember that if a tornado does affect your home, SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is Here to Help ® after the storm has passed! Stay safe and know that when disaster strikes, we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Floor Drying System

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Our technicians are thoroughly trained to make water damage "Like it never even happened."

We all know that water and hardwood floors should not mix, which can be devastating when you experience a water loss. It does not have to be though – SERVPRO has a floor drying system that when implemented quickly can save your wood flooring!

We have trained our technicians on how to restore even the most dramatic water losses. The floors in this photo were used for training – we let a hose completely saturate them and sit for 24 hours. After placing panels with an airtight seal on the floors, our crew suctioned all of the water between the subfloor and hardwood floors and between all of the grooves. All of the water in the floors was removed and dehumidifiers were placed to remove any additional moisture.

Do not assume that your wood floors need to be replaced if you have a water loss. Thanks to our intense training, thorough techniques, and professional equipment – homeowners can have peace of mind when they experience a water loss. SERVPRO has a great track record in making water damage seem “Like it never even happened."

Keep Your Commercial Property Mold Free

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 hours

With all of this rain in the forecast, businesses may need to take care of water coming into their commercial properties. It’s important to act fast with water damage to avoid mold. Mold can start to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours. Not only is it unsanitary and unsafe for you and your customers, but it can also ruin equipment in your building and even cause structural damage. If you have water removed from your property and suspect that there may be mold, it’s important to act fast.

Visible mold has a distinct appearance, but just because you don’t see mold doesn’t mean it’s not there. If you notice a strong, musty odor that may indicate that there is mold behind your walls or in your carpet. If you detect or suspect mold on your commercial property it’s important to avoid the affected areas and turn off your HVAC system and fans, then call the professionals to remove it.

Since mold is a fungus that goes under and into a material's surface, it is difficult to completely remove without professional products and expertise. SERVPRO has the expertise, products, and experience to remediate and remove any mold at your commercial property and get you back in business “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Being Prepared for Floods

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in the Quad Cities, 2019

We are approaching the 2-year anniversary of the enormous floods that came through the Quad Cities and devastated so many downtown businesses in 2019. With firsthand knowledge of how detrimental floods can be, our community should be proactive about having a plan in place and we’re here to help!  

Follow these tips to be prepared in the event of a flood:

• Review your flood and homeowner’s insurance policy and ensure it is in effect.
• Regularly check your sump pump and make sure it is functioning properly.
• Know where all of your hazardous materials are – it’s best to have them on higher ground.
• In an emergency, always listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials.
• Know where shut-offs are ahead of time. If an advanced flood warning is issued, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves, if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical equipment and appliances. (DO NOT touch electrical equipment if you are wet and DO NOT walk-through water)
• In the event of a flood warning, move vehicles to safer areas (DO NOT drive through standing water) and raise elevators from the bottom floor.
• Train your employees ahead of a flood event

It’s important to review these plans annually and ensure that nothing has changed. It is not possible to be too prepared. If you do not have a plan in place, SERVPRO offers Emergency Ready Profiles as a free tool to help Quad Cities and Muscatine businesses be prepared for whatever happens. Call our team and we will come out and create a plan for you.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Spring Forward, Quad Cities!

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors.

Spring is in the air in the Quad Cities! The days are already getting longer and it is time to turn the clocks forward again this weekend! March 14^th is daylight savings time! While you’re changing all of the clocks around your house, it’s also an ideal time to change the batteries in all of your smoke detectors.

Smoke alarms are the simplest fire prevention tool and it’s important to make sure they are well maintained!

If your smoke detector is 10 years old, it is a good idea to replace the whole device. If it’s a combination carbon monoxide and smoke detector, you may want to replace it even sooner. It’s best to check the lifespan of your detector with the manufacturer.

In addition to changing the batteries every six months, set a reminder on your calendar to test your smoke alarms once per month. Smoke detectors are the simplest tool that saves the most lives, but they are useless unless they are working properly. 

Gain some extra daylight and peace of mind this weekend!

Hiring Someone You Can Trust | IICRC & BBB Standards

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of the Quad Cities is accredited with the BBB & certified with IICRC

At SERVPRO we understand the stress that comes with fire or water damage and the disruption it causes in a home or business. Our goal is to put our customers at ease and minimize the interruption to their life. That’s why our technicians are thoroughly trained to make disaster “Like it never even happened.”

In addition to our in-house training, we make sure our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC). With IICRC certifications our team is held to the highest industry standards. SERVPRO of the Quad Cities holds certifications specifically in applied structural drying, carpet cleaning, fire and smoke damage, odor control, trauma and crime scene, water damage restoration, and applied microbial remediation.

We hold these certifications to do our job well, but we also align with the core values of the IICRC: We get things done. We don’t make excuses, we find solutions. We’re honest. No one needs to be around for us to do the right thing. We embrace failures and learn from our mistakes. We have one team with one mission.

In addition to our exceptional training, we are also accredited with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We understand the need to operate our business with the highest level of integrity. It is important for us to be held to these standards in all areas so our customers can have peace of mind when they hire us.

 SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Thawing Snow & Ice

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Freezing temperatures have brought their fill of water damage to Quad Cities homeowners through burst pipes and ice dams. Though temperatures are rising in the coming weeks, there are still many ways that water damage can affect your home. It’s important to be proactive about preventing thawing ice and snow from getting into your home through your roof or foundation. One key way to avoid water infiltrating your home is to move snow off of your roof and away from your foundation. Ensure your windows and doors are appropriately sealed and consistently check your pipes to make sure there is no cracking and check your basement for any leaks. Not only can this melting snow and ice cause structural damage and loss of personal items, but mold can develop within 24-48 hours of water exposure and will continue to spread until water damage is mitigated. If you do have any water coming into your home, contact SERVPRO as soon as possible. We will dry your home, check for and remove mold, and we can even restore damaged documents and personal items.

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Winter Storms | Deciphering Storm Warnings

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

In the Midwest we are currently facing the winter storm season. Winter storms can range from a small amount of snow over several hours all the way to a to a heavy blizzard with blinding, wind driven snow that lasts several days. Some winter storms can be large enough to affect several states at one time or just single communities. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and strong winds, icing, sleeting, and freezing rain.

At SERVPRO, one of the things we strive for is preparedness. During the winter season, it’s important to know what kind of storm you are preparing for. Below are headlines that weather channels use for winter storms and what they mean.

Winter Storm Watch – winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36-48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.

Winter Weather Advisory – winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant dangers and may be hazardous. Everyone should be cautious on the roads, stay indoors if possible, and dress warmly.  

Winter Storm Warning – life threatening severe winter conditions have begun or will begin in 24 hours. People in warning area should take precautions immediately and stay in a safe place.

It’s always important to make sure your car has plenty of gas throughout winter and you have supplies in your home and car such as a first aid kit, food, bottled water, flashlight, and blankets. No matter what type of winter weather hits you, our experienced team at SERVPRO is ready to respond to damage to your home or business.

 SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

The Customer Experience… Fresh & Clean!

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

A dramatic difference during a carpet cleaning!

Customer experience is crucial for successful businesses and that begins the moment a customer walks in the door. A positive customer experience can lead to an increase in sales, better reputability, and more referrals. Before you serve food, sell a product, or perform a service- a customer takes in the atmosphere. In order to ensure a fully satisfying customer experience, you have to have a clean and pleasing atmosphere.

In the Quad Cities, we are lucky to have a community full of beautiful restaurants, stores, hotels, office spaces, and everything in between. Even in these beautiful spaces though, it can be easy to overlook things when they happen slowly. For example, carpet – it is challenging to recognize the subtle darkening of a carpet over time. However, high traffic areas can become easily identifiable to a pair of fresh eyes and give an impression that your facility is not clean. That’s a mental mark against your business before your customer has even been greeted!

Pictured is carpet that we cleaned recently for a business owner who took charge of his customer's experience! You can see how dramatic the cleaning affected the appearance of the carpet, but what you can’t see is how fresh this entrance smelled too! Before customers even look around, they will be given the impression that they are in a clean and sanitary space.

Take a look around your business – is it time to have your carpets cleaned? Call SERVPRO and be proactive about establishing your business as one with a clean environment for your customers!

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf | (563)386-3540
SERVPRO of Moline/Rock Island | (309)797-1199
SERVPRO of Muscatine | (563)264-8661

Thank You Healthcare Heroes!

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Thank you healthcare heroes! - SERVPRO Team

The Quad Cities never ceases to amaze us when it comes to community involvement. We have been so inspired by all of the gestures that our community is doing for our healthcare heroes and we had to jump on the bandwagon - so SERVPRO decided to sponsor the coffee for a local hospital prior to the holidays. We know that these gestures can never fully express how thankful we are for our healthcare heroes, but we hope they feel appreciated and we hope this inspires more businesses to show them some love! THANK YOU HEALTHCARE HEROES!!!

Prepare for Winter Storms!

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Protect Your Home This Winter!

It has been a mild winter in the Quad Cities so far, but the official start of winter is right around the corner! It’s important to remember how to prepare for winter storms. Knowing what to expect is the best way to keep your home and businesses safe!

1. Ice

The weight of ice on your gutters could cause them to fall off. The best way to prevent major ice and water damage on your home is to ensure your home is well-insulated. Make sure that any gaps are sealed around light fixtures to keep warm air from rising into your attic and keep your attic well insulated to prevent warm air escaping out your roof. Ice can also weigh down tree branches and cause them to break and fall on your home or powerlines. Check the trees on your property frequently to look for broken or weak branches that are susceptible to coming down under the weight of ice.

2. Strong winds

Strong and heavy winds can blow shingles loose on your roof or take off your gutters or siding. If damage like this occurs, your home or business is prone to water damage. Sometimes this damage can occur in areas that are hard to see and you may not even realize that water damage is underway. Inspecting your roof, siding, and gutters before and after a heavy storm is the best way to prepare!

3. Heavy Snow

Sometimes removing heavy snow from your roof or tree limbs is the best way to prevent future damage. Two feet of packed snow is enough to make a roof collapse! Reach out to professionals who have experience and proper safety equipment to remove excessive snow.

Be observant and prepared this winter! It could be what prevents water damage to your home or business. If water damage does happen to your home, then call SERVPRO. Our team of experts are available 24/7 and we will make the damage seem "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf and Moline/Rock Island (563)386-3540

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

With flu season right around the corner in addition to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to ensure your facilities are clean and your customers and employees can stay healthy and safe.

SERVPRO has been partnering with local businesses to ensure their customers are safe and comfortable in their facilities with the Certified SERVPRO Cleaned program. 2020 has changed what it means to be clean and that’s why it’s important to go way beyond every day janitorial cleaning. We offer a proactive viral pathogen cleaning. As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise, so that your customers and employees can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

After we implement a tailored cleaning program to meet your business’s needs, we will help you communicate your commitment to clean with a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned window emblem and signage. Leverage SERVPRO’s trusted brand to reassure anyone in your place of business that you are taking the steps needed to keep your space at a higher level of clean.

Call us today to consult one of our experts about a tailored cleaning program to meet your business’s needs.

We're growing!

10/23/2020 (Permalink)

Join our team!

Have you been dreaming to be a part of a team that makes a difference in people’s lives every day?

At SERVPRO we help people put their lives back in order after experiencing devastating water, fire, mold and weather-related property losses.

Our Quad Ciites team is growing and we’re looking exceptional individuals to join us. We are hiring Receptionist/Dispatcher, Carpet Cleaning Technicians, Finish Carpenters, and Water Restoration Technicians.

Join a team that’s always here to help! Apply today… https://www.indeed.com/cmp/SERVPRO/jobs

FREE Continuing Education Classes for Quad Cities Insurance Agents

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is offering two FREE continuing education courses for Iowa and Illinois insurance agents. The courses will be held in Davenport, Iowa on November 5^th and include a free lunch. Our instructor, Todd Davis, will be discussing:

• Insurance Trends: Keeping Up With Technology
• 20 Questions: Improving Risk Transfer Techniques

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf & Moline/Rock Island offers these Continuing Education Classes twice a year. Our team appreciates all that our local insurance agents do for us and our community, and want to help you succeed in your field.

If you’d like more information or to attend either of these classes, email marketing@SERVPROdavenport.com or call (563)386-3540

Fall Fire Safety

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

The first day of fall was yesterday and with the change of the season comes loads of fun activities... bonfires, candles, and maybe even some baking! All of these things are fun, but we know that they can become dangerous quickly. That’s why we want to share some important fall fire safety tips to our fellow Quad Citians!

• Check your smoke detectors and make sure they are working properly… don’t forget to change your batteries with the time change!
• If you’re having a bonfire, make sure you’re in an open area away from overhanging branches and anything else that could catch on fire.
• Have a garden hose near your bonfire in case of emergency.
• Keep lit candles at least twelve inches away from anything that can burn and out of reach of children or pets.
• Use a timer when baking so you don’t lose track of time.
• When baking batter, put a baking pan underneath your dish to catch batter or excess liquid.

Enjoy the season safely! And remember that if disaster strikes, SERVPRO is here to help!

Lightning Safety

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Summer is the season when lightning is most prevalent, though it can actually strike any time of year. Lightning strikes in the United States about 25 million times every year. Though rare, lightning strikes to humans can be fatal. On average, about 47 people are killed by lightning strikes every year, while hundreds more are left seriously injured.

As we enter the lightning season, it is important to know how best to stay safe. Below is a list of tips that will help you avoid injury or even death:

• Avoid open spaces during a thunderstorm
• Avoid metal structures just as fences or even electrical wiring
• Avoid trees, metal towers, and utility polls
• Try to stay indoors if possible
• Even though the skit may look clear, that doesn’t mean you are safe from lightning. If you hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning

How to Prepare for a Tornado

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Tornado season is upon us once again and it is time to go over your family’s plan in case of severe weather. As Midwesterners, we know well how violent tornadoes can be and the widespread damage that can be done. While most damage is out of our control, being well prepared for these disasters saves lives.

The first thing you can do in preparation for a tornado is identify a safe place in your home where your family and pets can gather. This place will be located in your basement or cellar. If you don’t have a basement, make sure the safe room is on the lowest level in your home. If you live in an apartment complex, try to stay in the hallways near the center of the building and away from windows on the lowest possible floor. Mobile home owners should seek shelter at nearby safe structures.  Mobile homes are never safe during a tornado.

Preparing your family for a tornado should take place long before a Warning is announced. Everyone in the household should be aware of the safest place to go during a tornado, especially children. This does not only apply to your home; because we are not always at home when a tornado strikes, everyone in your household should understand emergency plans at their place of work or school.

You should also have a supply kit prepared to use in your safe place while you wait out the storm. These should include emergency supplies, such as medications, flashlights, first-aid kit, and a battery operated radio to monitor the progress of the weather.

Call your local restoration professionals at SERVPRO for more information!

Commercial Disasters, Large or Small

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

When a fire breaks out at your place of business, SERVPRO knows how important it is to keep your business moving and to keep customers satisfied. Each year, SERVPRO responds to all sizes of disasters: whether you are a large manufacturer and distributor, or a small local business, SERVPRO responds with the same capacity to get your structure clean and safe.

We also understand that sometimes stopping business is not an option. This is why SERVPRO responds immediately to assess the damage done to the structure and establish a plan of action. This plan of action will work around YOUR schedule and YOUR operations; in this way, your employees and the function of your business will be disrupted as little as possible. We will work closely with your staff to ensure the job is done on your terms.

Choose SERVPRO for any size commercial disaster to get up and running ASAP.

Commercial Document Restoration

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf, we understand that your documentation is extremely important to you and your clients, as well as essential to running your business. When it comes to water damage, timely response and mitigation is key to restoring your damaged documents. With our rapid response and state-of-the-art technology, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf can help save your important and sometimes irreplaceable files and get you back to running your business quickly.

The Document Restoration Team is very dedicated to your business’s privacy. In this way, all Document Restoration Team members are HIPAA Master certified; your documents remain under 24/7 video surveillance; and there is supervision of any team members entering and exiting the Drying Chamber Facility.

Depending on the severity of damage, there are a number of options and technologies employed in restoring your business’s documents:

• Vacuum Freeze Drying—this process involves freezing your documents and drying them with various vacuums and pressures to achieve sublimation, which is the direct conversion of a solid (ice) into a gas (water vapor).
• Digitization—we offer digitization of your business’s paper files, which can help create extra office space. If your file room was affected by water damage, digitization could solve this issue while preventing another water damage to files in the future.
• Gamma Irradiation—this is a process used for cleaning/disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. This is used in water damage involving sewage and waste.
• Certified Destruction—in the unfortunate event that we cannot save and restore your documentation, we also offer certified destruction and disposal of classified documentation. This can protect your business’s liabilities, brand image, or proprietary information.

If your business has suffered water damage to documents, please call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Commercial Cleaning

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

If you are a business owner, you already know well the importance of keeping your business clean and odor free. The appearance and maintenance of your business says a lot to customers about your dedication, and it can also affect your local reputation. Sometimes conventional cleaning just isn’t enough to tackle the grime and everyday wear and tear from running a business. Do you have an odor problem? Dirty carpets? Or just need general cleaning services? SERVPRO is “Here to Help.” 

We offer a deeper clean than the average cleaning service company and are available 24/7. This means we can respond quicker to determine the best cleaning options.

Below is a list of cleaning services we offer:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

Call SERVPRO today for a superior clean business.

Have A Fire Plan

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

With decades of experience in fire restoration, SERVPRO knows well how the effects of fire can devastate a home or business. As everyone knows, fire is also sometimes fatal. This is why every family should have a fire safety and response plan. When a fire breaks out, how quickly you act can make a huge difference in saving your home or business. The time it takes you to respond can also be life or death.

Once you have a plan set in place, make sure that everyone in your family knows the drill. It is especially important for your children to understand the plan. For extra safety, be sure to go over the plan at least once a year so there is no confusion.

For tips on what to include in your fire plan, call SERVPRO today.

SERVPRO's Emergency Ready Program (ERP)

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Is your business prepared for emergency situations, such as fire or a water leak? Do your employees know key information to use in such an emergency, such as the location of your water shut-off valve and fire extinguishers or who to call for immediate assistance? According to recent research, up to 50% of businesses shut their doors following a disaster. Of businesses that remain open, a majority of them had an emergency action plan. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Program (ERP) App is an important tool for businesses to fill these gaps in emergency preparedness.

Our ERP is an extensive app containing crucial information about your business location, including emergency contact lists, shut-off valve locations and priority locations. This includes several pictures that act as guides for you and your employees during your emergency situation. In the event of a sudden emergency, the ERP is designed to help minimize interruptions in your day-to-day business by having a plan set in place specific to your facility.

At SERVPRO, we believe that understanding what to expect and being organized in the face of emergency is key to timely mitigation of your issues. In this way, our ERP helps you “Be Ready For What Happens” in the face of any obstacles to running your business.

To get started, call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563)-386-3540.

You discharged a fire extinguisher. Now what?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

A fire in your kitchen breaks out. What do you do? Grab a fire extinguisher and let it rip. But now you have a huge mess on your hands. What now?

Fire extinguishers play a large factor in minimizing the impact that fire has on your home or business. Without one, an otherwise small fire can turn into widespread devastation throughout the structure. In fact, in 75% of fires where an extinguisher was present, the fire department was not needed.

But the chemicals in fire extinguishers can be corrosive and harmful to your lungs or skin. For this reason, once the fire is put out, you should immediately take precautions to protect yourself and your family.

• Don’t sweep it. This can make the dangerous particles airborne.
• Open windows
• Wash your hands

If you need help cleaning up a fire extinguisher discharge, call SERVPRO today.

Water in Basement? Use a Submersible Pump

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

With all the rain we are experiencing in the Quad Cities this time of year, many of us are getting some water in our basements. This can be a huge pain, especially when the standing water lingers around for days. And, in addition to causing a mess, the standing water can also cause lasting and costly damage. This makes a submersible pump an asset.

Whether your existing sump pump stops working or is overwhelming by more ground water than normal, having an extra submersible pump handy can be a huge help. Even if your sump pump is working fine, it is always a good idea to have an extra for support during heavy rains.

With water damage, time is money. So the faster you get it out, the more money you will save. So get a submersible pump and be prepared.

What to Do Before Help Arrives: Water Damage

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

A pipe burst overnight. Or maybe a pipe has been leaking for a long time and you just now discovered it. What do you do now? First, you want to call a plumber depending on the severity of the leak. Next, call SERVPRO.

OK, SERVPRO is on the way; everything is going to be fine. But what do you do until we arrive? Here is a list of tips for what to do until help arrives during a water damage:

• Get rid of any excess water with a mop or towel.
• Dry wood furniture to preserve the finish.
• Put aluminum foil between any wet carpet and furniture that you cannot move.
• Last but certainly not least, remove any lose items from rooms with wet flooring.

Save Money on Plumbing with an Annual Plumbing Checklist

6/30/2020 (Permalink)

If you own a home, you know how expensive plumbing work can be. That is why catching problems before they get out of hand can save you a lot of money each year. In this way, it is a good idea to check your plumbing at least once a year, as well as monitor any developing issues year-round. Below you will find a list of tips to keep your plumbing healthy and save you some cash.

Have a leaking showerhead?

This can lead to a large water bill. Always address any leaking faucets or pipes to save on water.

Have a slow drain?

It may seem like a minor inconvenience, but over time these can become major clogs and need professional intervention.

Low water pressure?

This may be due to mineral build-ups on showerheads or faucets. These can be cleaned with vinegar, or a light mineral deposit solution.

Toilet running?

You may need to fix the flapper or chain inside your toilet tank. Chains often get hung up on the flapper, so it may need adjustment.

What to Do During a Lightning Storm

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

We’ve been having a lot of thunderstorms in the Quad Cities lately, and it’s that time of year again when SERVPRO reminds of you the importance of storm safety, particularly as it relates to lightning. Here are some tips to keep you safe during a thunderstorm:

• It is not safe to be outdoors during a thunderstorm. If you can hear thunder, that means get inside and stay put until at least 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder.
• Stay away from anything electrical in your home, as well as plumbing, windows, and doors. Lightning can be conducted through these mediums and reach you.
• If you can’t get indoors, retreat from elevated surfaces, do not stay under trees, and stay away from any object that can conduct electricity.

Lightning and Fire

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

If your home or business is struck by lightning, you need to call the fire department immediately. Even if you do not see, hear, or smell a fire, it is better to be safe and prepared. When lightning strikes a structure, it can start a fire in attics or walls. So, while it may not seem like there was any damage, there could be an undetectable fire starting somewhere in your structure.

Why does this happen? When lightning passes through your home, it may take several paths to make its way to the ground as fast as possible. It may jump from outside lines to water pipes, or even from your gutter to window frame, and then to your electrical wiring in your walls.

It is best to be safe and call your local fire department to inspect your home or business to avoid significant damage.

Commercial Fire Hazards

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to protecting your business, as well as your employees, it is important that your employers are well versed in fire safety. In this way, employers should always train their employees about work-related fire hazards, as well as what to do in case of a fire-related emergency situation. This involves having the proper equipment necessary to mitigate fires, such as fire extinguishers and training employees on how and when to use them. Here are some fire safety points for your business:

• Make sure employees know where all exits are located
• Though not always required, every business should have a plan for emergency evacuations
• Educate your employees on your building floorplan, as well as location of emergency valve shut-offs

Call SERVPRO for more tips.

Support Local With SERVPRO

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

With over 25 years of helping the Quad Cities recover from disasters, SERVPRO is dedicated to this community more than ever. As we get through this pandemic together, we have been happy to lend our hands to residents, local businesses, and law enforcement and emergency responders. With our deep roots in our communities, the Quad Cities has chosen SERVPRO time and time again to help with their fire, water and mold damage situations. This is because we have highly trained local professionals that are ready to assist you at a moments notice—that means 24 hours ago, 7 days a week, and of course 365 days a year.

If you want to support local business, choose SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.”

We are Cleaning Experts

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

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

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

Commercial Fire Restoration With SERVPRO

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Any amount of fire damage is devastating to a business owner, especially if it forces them to close their doors to customers. Every day that a business is closed, you’re losing money and customers. If fire and smoke damage wasn’t enough, you may be looking at extensive water damage from fire-fighting efforts. The faster you can reopen, the less disruption to your business.

We know that getting back to business is important, which is why SERVPRO will arrive “Faster to Any Size Disaster.” Our technicians have the experience and equipment necessary no matter the size or scope of your damage.

If you have a fire damage at your local business, big or small, call SERVPRO today to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO is Here for Your Quad Cities Water Damage

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf and Moline/Rock Island is a locally owned and operated business, so we are part of this community, too. When you have a flooding or water damage emergency, we’re already nearby and ready to help, right here in the Quad Cities.

If your Quad Cities home or business has been damaged by water due to flooding or water leaks, SERVPRO is “Here to Help” 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. That’s right, we are always available. With over 25 years of dedication to our Quad Cities customers, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment necessary to restore your property back to preloss condition. With our state-of-the-art drying technology, our water removal and cleanup process provides validation and documentation, which confirms that your property is dry. And our highly trained water restoration specialists arrive quickly to your property to avoid further damage and save you money.

Have Water or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (563) 386-3540

Quad Cities Flooding

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

We have been lucky in the Quad Cities this year so far when it comes to flooding. Last year we saw record flood levels and widespread devastation all across our communities. But why have we been so lucky this year? First you have to understand why flooding happens in the first place.

Generally, flooding is when water overflows on to land that is usually dry. This can happen during a heavy rain, or when a large amount of snow melts, causing waterways to be overwhelmed. Last year we had heavy snow and rapid melt in the northern parts of the country, which lead to an overwhelmed Mississippi river.

This year, the Mississippi river, as well as the Rock river, was not overwhelmed by increases in water flow. Let’s cross our fingers that this continues.

Practicing Fire Safety in the Kitchen

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Home fires have been steadily decreasing each year for decades; but even one fire-related death is too many.

While your kitchen may seem like a safe place, the number 1 cause of home fire is cooking. And the number one cause of kitchen fires? Unattended cooking. It’s very easy to get distracted once you’ve put something on the stove, but there are a number of ways you can avoid a dangerous situation in your kitchen:

• If you are already sleepy or have consumed alcohol, do not use your oven or stove top.
• Make sure to stay in your kitchen when frying or boiling food on your stovetop.
• If you are cooking something that takes a while, check the stove regularly and set alarms
• Keep flammable objects away from burners

SERVPRO Water Damage Process

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can be frustrating; but SERVPRO can make it “Like it never even happened.” And the process starts from the moment we receive your call. Here is a break done of the steps in the SERVPRO water damage process:

The first step is giving us a call in your time of need. One of our trained representatives will advise you through your crisis. We may have some questions for you to provide the best game plan for your water damage.

Next, we will come to you to inspect and test your property. This will help us better determine the extent of damage, as well as gauge how far the moisture has traveled.

Then the fun part: water extraction. We begin removing the water almost immediately using powerful pumps and vacuum units. Removing the water fast is important to avoid mold growth.

We will then use specialized equipment to remove any remaining water. It is not always easy to tell if moisture still remains; that is where SERVPRO’s advanced technology comes into play.

Once your property is dry, it is time for cleaning and sanitizing. SERVPRO has its own line of propriety and safe chemicals that will get your home or business perfectly clean.

Then, SERVPRO will restore anything that was not salvageable by the water damage, making it truly “Like it never even happened.”  

Storm Damage Clean-Up

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with storm related water damage, your immediate action is crucial to preserving and restoring your property and getting your life back to normal.

When disaster strikes, you should choose the company with storm damage experience and expertise that has the resources and equipment to handle the job. SERVPRO of Davenport / Bettendorf has been helping our Quad Cities communities weather life's storms for over 25 years. We are open 24/7 and can respond immediately to any storm and flooding conditions.

When necessary, we also have the capability to perform pack-out services, removing your salvageable personal property for off-site cleaning and storage while we dry and restore your property.

If you have a storm-related water damage, call SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

How to Prevent Water in Your Basement During Rain

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Water can creep in quick during a heavy rain.

We haven’t experienced any flooding in the Quad Cities yet this year, but we have seen some rain. And we all know what this can mean: wet basements. Whether you have a compromised foundation or an inadequate draining system, you may fall victim to a wet basement during the rainy months. No matter the cause, there are ways to prevent water from accumulating in your basement during heavy rains.

Here are some tips to help get you through spring:

• Check your sump pump: a faulty pump can lead to rising water in your basement. Always make sure to test your pump regularly to ensure proper function. It can save you a lot of money.
• Make sure your gutters are clean: full gutters can lead to overflow and saturation of soil around your foundation. Limiting water accumulation around your foundation will help prevent water seepage.
• Keep an extra pump on hand: sometimes your sump pump can’t keep up with rising groundwater levels, especially during exceptionally hard rains. Having an extra pump can lessen the burden on your main pump and double your flood prevention power.

If you experience water in your basement, call SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.”

What to Do During a Water Damage

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

When you had a leaking or burst pipe, what’s the first thing you do? Call SERVPRO. OK, everything will be alright. But what do you do until help arrives? First, your safety is most important, so ask yourself: is it safe to stay in the house; are electrical outlets exposed to water; is it possible you could slip and fall? If the answer is no, it is OK to proceed.

During a water damage, acting fast is crucial. And there are several things you can be doing before SERVPRO arrives to lessen the ultimate damage. Here are some tips to avoid larger damage in the event of water issues:

• Try to remove any excess water by mopping or blotting
• Wipe excess water off wood furniture to preserve finish
• Place aluminum foil or blocks between furniture and wet carpet
• Remove any lose items from wet flooring

Staying Safe Amid COVID-19

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is dedicated to keeping our communities healthy and safe. As the country starts to reopen, we want to remind everyone to take precautions to limit your chances of contracting or spreading COVID-19.

Remember to continue practicing social distancing by putting space between yourself and others—at least 6 feet, as per the CDC. Also continue to practice healthy habits. This will help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities. Here are some helpful tips:

• Keep washing your hands, and for at least 20 seconds each time
• Keep frequently used surfaces clean and disinfected regularly
• If you feel sick, it is safest to stay home and away from friends and loved ones
• Avoid touching your face: this is the easiest way to avoid catching the virus

If you would like your home or business deep-cleaned to CDC specified standards, call SERVPRO today!

To learn more about staying safe and healthy during the pandemic, you can also visit cdc.gov/covid19.

Running a Business During the Coronavirus Outbreak

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

As we at SERVPRO well-know, unexpected disasters have a huge impact on small businesses. Many businesses are not able to reopen after floods, fires or other disasters force them to close their doors. This is no different during the coronavirus pandemic; local, “non-essential” Quad Cities businesses have been forced to close as we are all directed to stay at home. But for those “essential” businesses, it is no walk in the park. Precautions must be taken to protect employees and customers. As SERVPRO remains open, we are here with you in this trying time.

Here are some tips for those businesses that are still open or have re-opened:

• Encourage sick employees to stay home
• Foster a new workplace etiquette and environment: handwashing, no touch trash cans, hand sanitizer.
• Clean on a regular basis
• Talk to your employees about safety
• Limit face-to-face contact

Smoke Alarm Safety

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, one of our goals is to help bring awareness to our community about the importance of practicing fire safety. And one of the most fundamental pillars of fire safety in the home is having and maintaining smoke alarms. In fact, the widespread use of smoke alarms in homes is considered a major factor in the decline in fire deaths over the years.

Here on some statistics to consider:

• 3 out of 5 fire-related home deaths take place in homes WITHOUT functioning smoke alarms
• 38% of all deaths related to home fires took place in homes with no smoke alarms
• The chances of dying in a home fire drops by 50% with the addition of working smoke alarms

What can you do? If you do not have smoke alarms, install them immediately based on your home specifications. Change batteries and test your alarms frequently. Stay safe!

Free Emergency Vehicle Cleaning from SERVPRO

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Police officer with the Colona Police Department

SERVPRO stands with our Quad Cities first responders. Cops, firefighters, doctors, nurses and more, they all put themselves in harm's way to protect us, especially during this pandemic. And it has never been more important for the vehicles they use to be clean and free of germs. That is why SERVPRO is offering free emergency vehicle cleaning and sanitizing for all local police departments, fire departments, and hospitals.

Our technicians are trained in adhering to the absolute highest cleaning and sanitation standards in the industry. Any and all cleanup and bioremediation performed by SERVPRO is 100% in accordance with the guidelines mandated by the CDC and all local Quad Cities authorities.

Please give us a call today; we are honored to serve our Quad Cities heroes.

Commercial Cleaning Services Amid Coronavirus

4/26/2020 (Permalink)

It has never been more important for essential businesses to clean and sanitize.

Do you have a small business in the Quad Cities area? At SERVPRO we understand that times are tough for our local businesses. Some of you have been forced to close your doors while others remain open to serve the public. At any rate, the cleanliness of your business has never been more important; this is where SERVPRO can help.

Our technicians are trained in adhering to the absolute highest cleaning and sanitation standards in the industry. Any and all cleanup and bioremediation performed by SERVPRO is 100% in accordance with the guidelines mandated by the CDC and all local Quad Cities authorities.

Why SERVPRO? We have a secret weapon. Our proprietary cleaning agent, SERVPROXIDE, is an EPA-certified, hospital-grade disinfectant that has demonstrated effectiveness against viruses that are similar to Coronavirus on hard, non-porous surfaces.

Protect your business by calling SERVPRO today at (563) 386-3540 to learn more!

Fire Prevention Month

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month; which is why it's a perfect time to reexamine your emergency preparedness plans for your home or business. But do you have a fire escape plan? If you don't already have a fire escape plan, now is a great time to make one. In addition to a plan, you can also help prevent extreme damages from fire by changing your smoke alarm batteries. This is because the extent of damage can be limited if a fire is caught quicker.

According to the NFPA, once your smoke alarm starts going off, you have less than 1 or 2 minutes to escape your home safely. However, only 8% of surveyed people said their first thought was to leave the home after hearing a smoke alarm. In this way, creating and practicing an emergency fire plan could save your family's lives. By having a plan, those 1 to 2 minutes can be utilized to achieve the best possible outcome.

Here are some tips to prevent fire from happening in the first place:

• Do not leave stoves, ovens, toasters, irons, or candles unattended.
• Do not play with fire whether indoors or outside.
• Check electric appliances for frayed or damaged cords. Replace or fix when necessary.
• Keep bonfires a good distance from any structures.
• Make sure your smoke detectors have fresh batteries and are functioning properly.

For information on fire safety, feel free to call us at (563) 386-3540.

Vicki Blaire: SERVPRO’s Greatest Cat Mom

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Bella, after a much needed bath!

Vicki Blaire, our Warehouse Supervisor, has been a dedicated member of the Quad City SERVPRO team for 12 years. And during this time, Vicki has made some lifelong friends—especially her 2 cats: Allie and Bella. In fact, Vicki rescued them both from SERVPRO job sites and brought them home.

Allie, 11, a Maine Coon, was her first furry rescued friend. SERVPRO was cleaning a damaged home that happened to have a new litter of kittens. One of those kittens developed an attachment with Vicki, wandering down the stairs 5 times to greet her; on the 6^th time, Vicki decided “I’m taking this guy home”. And for the last 11 years, Allie has been a spoiled and loved part of Vicki’s family. In fact, to her other cats, Allie acts as a paternal and protective figure, always looking out and standing up for his kitty siblings.

Bella, 2, was the next kitten Vicki rescued from a SERVPRO job site. Bella was living under a home and very filthy and in need of care. Instead of taking her to the humane society, Vicki vowed to take her home as well. For the last 2 years, she has been an indispensable part of Vicki’s family.

Vicki’s dedication does not stop with animals; in addition to her 12 years of experience and professional expertise in this industry, Vicki is compassionate and supportive with clients and loves what she does. We are honored to have Vicki on the SERVPRO team!

Locally And Family Owned For 25 Years In The Quad Cities

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is locally owned and family operated and has been a trusted restoration company in Quad City communities for 25 years. We are dedicated and passionate about helping homeowners and businesses in our communities recover from disasters, ranging from damage caused by fire, water, flood, mold, and more.

Coupled with our national backing from SERVPRO Industries—which gives us the proprietary equipment, chemicals, and training to provide unmatched services—we have highly trained local professionals ready to assist you with your restoration needs. In fact, some of our employees have been with us from the beginning, giving them up to 25 years of experience with SERVPRO. Our trained local professionals live and work in our Quad City communities and are ready at a moment’s notice to make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

If you want to work with a locally owned business with 25 years of experience in our community providing restoration services, choose SERVPRO for all of your disaster and clean-up needs!

SERVPRO Helped the River Bandits Clean Flood Damage

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO quickly reported to the River Bandits Stadium following flood water damage.

This flood season has been rough on the Quad Cities. And you can’t look at the news without seeing some sort of flood coverage. A prominent photo many of you have seen is the Quad City River Bandits Modern Woodman Stadium completely surrounded by water. While the River Bandits were once again able to keep the flood waters from damaging their field, their batting cage area was not so lucky. Flood waters infiltrated this area and left behind large quantities of mud and silt.

Left without a place to practice, the River Bandits called on SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.” SERVPRO reported to the stadium soon after getting the call to access the damage. We found a thick layer of mud left behind on cement surfaces, as well as on the green felt turf in their batting cages. At SERVPRO, we call this type of cleaning a muck-out. Once an assessment was made, we began work immediately. This involved power washing and sanitizing all surfaces in the batting cage area. Although it was a large job, we were able to be in and out within 2 days, allowing the River Bandits to get back to practicing and doing what they do best!

If your business experiences water or fire damage, call SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Stay Safe From Lightning

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes in the United States approximately 25 million times per year. Most of these strikes occur in summer, though lightning can actually strike at any time during the year. And though it is rare, lightning strikes on humans can be fatal; in fact, an average of 47 people per year are killed in lightning strikes, while hundreds of people are seriously injured. You can use the following tips to keep yourself  and others safe from lightning strikes:

• Try to avoid wide open areas during a storm.
• Stay clear of trees, towers, utility poles, or any other large or tall metal objects.
• Stay clear of metal structures such as fences or wiring.
• Stay indoors if possible.
• Clear skies do not mean you are in danger. If you can hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning.

Smoke Damage Job at the Quad City Animal Welfare Center

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

A dryer fire at Quad City Animal Welfare Center forced them to temporarily close their doors. Thanks to SERVPRO, they are back I business!

Back in May of 2019, the Quad City Animal Welfare Center in Milan, IL, had a fire in their laundry room. Luckily, the fire was contained to the dryer; however, the smoke from the fire spread throughout the building, causing smoke damage to most of the facility. We were honored when we received the call from the center to help.

Once we received the call, SERVPRO arrived on the same day to do an assessment of the damage and provide emergency services. While the clinic escaped structural damage, most all surfaces were damaged by smoke, which made its way throughout the facility. Because this is a sterile environment for animal housing and operations, it was crucial that the property be deep cleaned and ready for everyday use. This involved deodorizing and using our ozone machines and air scrubbers to remove the smoke smell. All surfaces were also cleaned and sanitatized. SERVPRO got the clinic back in business in a week's time!

From start to finish, SERVPRO was able to make it “Like it never even happened.” If you have smoke damage, call us today!

Flood of 2019

6/18/2019 (Permalink)

The flood of 2019 has been the worst flood in the Quad Cities in recorded history. We have broken several records, including flood depth, amount of time at flood stage, and record rainfall days in May. While we have grown accustomed to flooding over the years, and have procedures in place to combat water damage to businesses and residences, this flood overwhelmed many of our safeguards.

One of those safeguards is the HESCO barrier. When the barrier collapsed due to prolonged water pressure and increased height, businesses were caught off guard. Many lost a large portion of their merchandise. Others have had to remain closed and even vowed to move their business location permanently.

However, as the water goes down, both our residents and our businesses are starting to rebuild. Home owners are having their basements cleaned out and businesses are starting to once again stock their shelves in anticipation of reopening. The Quad Cities have once again pulled through during a brutal flood season and now look toward the future!

Being Prepared for a Fire: Have a Plan

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Working in the Fire and Water Restoration industry, SERVPRO understands the devastating effects fire can have on a property. We also know too well that fires can be fatal. In many cases families do not have plans to follow in case of a fire. When fire strikes, you must act quickly to not only help reduce the extent of damage to your property, but also to keep your loved ones and pets safe from harm. For this reason, SERVPRO recommends all households have a plan set in place in case of a fire.

The first step is creating your plan. This will involve sitting down with your family, especially your children, so that everyone is aware of the plan. For each room in your home, there should be 2 specified exit points, such a doors or windows. Part of the plan will be explaining to your children that if one route is blocked—by smoke or fire—they should try the other route. The best way to do this is to draw a map that shows all exits. The plan should also specify a meeting place for everyone to gather after leaving the home. This meeting place should be a safe distance from your home. At this meeting place, you will then want to call 911—don’t stay in the home to call 911 and don’t go back inside.

Once you have your plan in place, reminders about your plan throughout the year can be helpful in remaining prepared at a moment’s notice. Practicing your fire drill with your children will help them better understand what to do and to keep calm if a fire occurs.

Of course, it is also import to teach your family about the importance of fire safety. This means teaching them that they should stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches fire; crawl close to your baseboards to avoid smoke inhalation; and always listen to instructions from officials such as police or firefighters.

Call SERVPRO today for more fire safety tips!

Fire Caused by Lightning

5/31/2019 (Permalink)

When you think about how a fire may start, what first comes to mind? A stove burner left on, a clogged dryer vent, or faulty wiring? All of these instances are common. But what about lightning? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), local fire departments in the United States responded to an average of 22,600 fires that were started by lightning—this data was gather between 2007 and 2011. While uncommon, they do happen, and especially around the summer months. In fact, fires caused by lightning strikes are most common between the months of June and August, taking place between late afternoon and evening.

Because our homes are made of wood and other highly flammable materials, they can be easily ignited by a lightning strike. This will often take place in the attic or roof of a home; this is because the lightning channel must pass through the roof to get to the conductive materials, such as piping and wires within our walls and ceilings. While it is most common for the fires to start on the roof or in the attic, if lightning travels through a home’s wiring system, fires can start anywhere.

If your home is struck by lightning, you will want to immediately call the fire department in case of a fire. Because lightning can travel through your home internally via pipes and wires, an ignited fire may not be outwardly apparent. This is why it is safer to have the fire department on their way to not only put out a possible fire, but to make sure your home is not at risk of a fire. In fact, it may be a good idea to contact an electrician to make sure that your wiring was not damaged by the lightning strike.

While fires caused by lightning are rare, it is still important to always be prepared!

Annual Maintenance Checklist: Plumbing

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

The p-trap is the U-shaped pipe under your sink. Make sure to check these frequently, as they can become clogged and cause drain back-ups.

As the seasons change and the weather gets warmer, it’s time to reevaluate the conditions of our homes and check each system to ensure proper functioning. Your plumbing system should be checked annually by either you or a professional plumber, depending on your expertise. The following tips will serve as a guide in your efforts to keep your plumbing system functioning properly and healthy.

• Check the p-traps—the U-shaped pipes—under your sinks to prevent clogs. If it has debris or a clog, remove the p-trap and clean it out with a nylon brush.
• Check all faucets and under your sinks for leaks or signs of leaks.
• Check your showerhead for leaks or mineral buildups. If your showerhead has excessive leaking or mineral deposits, it may need to be replaced, or at least be cleaned with a special solution.
• Check all visible piping throughout your house. Pipes with visible discoloration may have corrosion or other issues. Also check for mold or mildew, which can be a sign of small leaks. These should be inspected by a plumber and possibly replaced.
• Test your garbage disposal to ensure it is functioning properly.
• Make sure that your water heater is set to a safe and optimal temperature. Water temperature should be no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit, which is safe for use and will ensure a longer water heater lifespan.

If you have water damage from a leaking pipe, or subsequent mold from water damage, call SERVPRO to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why Does Flooding Occur?

5/13/2019 (Permalink)

Flood scene in downtown Davenport

There are few places in the world that do not have to worry about flooding. As it goes, ‘where there is rain, there will be flooding’. And, being a local business in the Quad Cities for over 25 years, we have seen our fair share of flooding on the Mississippi and Rock River, and we know the devastation it causes in our communities.

Technically, flooding is when typically dry land becomes overwhelmed and covered by a sustained water presence. But how does this process take place? What makes a river flood? Rain is a large contributor: as rain water pours into rivers from creeks and storm drains, the river is overwhelmed with water and its banks encroach on adjacent dry land, referred to as the floodplain. While river flooding can be caused by heavy rains, there are other causes. One of these include rapidly melting ice or snow that pours into storm drains and finds its way into streams and rivers; this will very quickly add to the normal amount of water flowing in a river and cause level rises as the water moves downstream. We experienced a great deal of this with record snow fall this year.

As we know in the Quad Cities, it can take several days for flooding to develop, giving our residents time to prepare for the incoming water. But this flood in particular was difficult to be ready for, as the flood water has stuck around for a record length of time, and was higher than any in history. As we recover in our communities from this devastation, SERVPRO is “Here to Help” with residential and commercial clean-ups. If you have experienced water damage, call SERVPRO at 563-386-3540 to make it “Like it never even happened."

How To Use A Submersible Pump

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

A submersible pump can keep rising water at bay and reduce the amount of damage to your home.

As we experience heavy rains here in the Quad Cities, SERVPRO receives an overflow of calls regarding water in basements. This may be due to seepage through the floor or foundation of your basement, or possibly a failed sump pump. Whatever the cause, water in your basement can lead to extensive water damage to your home and belongings, especially if you have a finished basement. For this reason, a submersible pump is a great product to keep on hand to slow the rising of water in your basement as it comes in, which will reduce the scope of damage, and to remove the remaining water once the rain or flooding has stopped. Once you have your submersible pump, it is important to follow a number of steps to ensure proper water removal. Below are tips on how to set up your pump:

• Along with your pump you will need a hose. This is sometimes a simple garden hose, sump hose, or possibly one that comes with your pump. You will want to make sure you have a long enough hose to get from your pump to your drainage site.
• Next you will need to connect the hose to your pump. Make sure that the connection is secure before starting your pump. Also consider that if the water you are removing is contaminated your hose may no longer be safe for other uses.
• You will then be ready to plug and your pump and start removing the water from your basement. Be sure to submerge your pump in the deepest water within your home. This will help you avoid running the pump dry. It will also allow your pump to keep working until a majority of the water is removed, as some pumps have floats that will automatically shut the power off once the water has reached a certain level.
• Keep an eye on your pump to make sure it is working properly. Also make sure that the area is free of debris to avoid clogs.

If you have water in your basement, call SERVPRO at 563-386-3540 to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Flooding - What To Do Until Help Arrives

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Quad Cities communities know well the effects associated with floods. Every few years we have a really bad one. But this year has been no exception. In fact, we have broken records as the water continues to rise and has sustained major flood levels for several weeks. By all means, this will go down as one of the worst floods in Quad Cities history.

At SERVPRO, we understand how stressful and inconvenient the flooding season can be. If you are experiencing water damage from flooding, here are some things you should do before help arrives:

• Turn off your circuit breakers for wet areas in your home. Only do this if access to your panel is safe!
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off of damp floors.

DON’T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Touch contaminated water or items that have come into contact with contaminated water.
• Leave books, newspapers, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.

Call SERVPRO today at 563-386-3540 if you need assistance.

Understanding Different Water Types

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers from a water damage, it is important to understand the type of water present to ensure proper clean-up. This is because there are 3 types, or categories, of water, each having its own safety distinction. Water is considered “clean”, or a category 1, when it comes from a broken pipe or rain. If you suffer a water damage from clean water, make sure to do the following things until help arrives:

• Shut off your home or business water source, if possible.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas. However, only do this if it is safe, and do not enter rooms with standing water to avoid electric shock.
• Once safe, try to clean up as much water as possible from floors and wipe down wood furniture.

Another water type is “gray water”, or category 2. Clean water can become gray water when it is left untreated, allowing bacteria and other contaminates to grow freely. This type of water is considered contaminated and hazardous. The 3^rd water type is “black water”, or category 3, which is highly contaminated and filled with bacteria, fungi, chemicals, and more. This type of water is typically caused by sewage back up, flooding, or other types of natural disaster. Black water should be avoided and only handled by trained professionals. If you suffer a water damage from contaminated water, category 2 or 3, do the following things until help arrives:

• Avoid making contact with gray or black water. Make sure to wash hands thoroughly after coming into contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through areas contaminated by gray or black water, as you may spread damage to other unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on HVAC system to avoid spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry contaminated water damage.
• Do not keep any food that comes into contact with contaminated water.

For more information about water types, please contact your SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf water damage professionals at 563-386-3540.

How to Have a Safe Fire Pit

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

How to Have a Safe Fire Pit

Fire pits are a great addition to your outdoor space and can be fun to gather around with family and friends. As the weather is getting nicer, they are a great excuse to get outside and enjoy spring. But as fun as fire pits can be, taking safety precautions is extremely important to avoiding possible fire-related disasters. Misuse use of fire pits can often lead to grass fires that can spread to neighboring properties, or worse: house fires. The following tips will help you enjoy your fire pit while also staying safe:

Placement of Your Fire Pit

• At least 10 feet away from homes, other structures, and neighboring yards
• Never place under a covered porch, low hanging tree branches, or mounted awnings
• Make sure the surface under your fire pit is non-flammable

Preparing for Your Fire

• Make sure no flammable materials are place near your fire pit
• Create a barrier of rocks or cement blocks to keep fire contained (if you are not using store-bought)
• If you are building your own fire pit, make sure the pit is at least 6 inches deep at center and at least 2 feet across

Starting Your Fire

• Be conscious of wind direction and move flammable materials accordingly
• Do not light your fire if it is exceedingly windy
• For extra safety, you can use fire-starter sticks instead of lighter fluid

For more information, call your fire professionals at SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Duct Cleaning?

4/22/2019 (Permalink)

Ducts can collect large amounts of dust and dirt build-up.

Your ventilation system is often the leading factor in poor indoor air quality. Routinely inspecting the ductwork at your home or business should be a high priority. Soiled air ducts can circulate odors, mold and irritating dust throughout your home or business. Rodents, insects or pests, dust, dirt, debris, bacteria, mold, or pollen: all of these factors can significantly reduce your air quality.

At SERVPRO, we provide cleaning services for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC). Keeping this system clean can potentially lengthen the life of your HVAC by allowing it to function at its peak condition; this can also save you money on utility bills and possible equipment repairs in the long run. We also offer sealing and coating to be sprayed in order to address odor issues or microbial concerns.

In other cases, duct cleaning is not always routine. Duct cleaning can become an essential service after a fire, smoke damage, or suspected mold growth. In case of a fire, smoke travels quickly through your ducts, especially if your HVAC system is running at the time. This can lead to ongoing odor issues in your home or business.

If you have a fire or need a routine cleaning service, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is “Here To Help” with your duct cleaning needs 24/7!

SERVPRO Has the Capacity for Large Commercial Disaster Clean-ups

4/18/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a fire at your business, SERVPRO understands how important it is to get back to work as quickly as possible to avoid losses and keep your customers happy. In October of 2018, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf responded to a fire disaster at a large local manufacturer and distributor. An outside fire that made its way into the facility caused smoke and soot damage to their entire warehouse and much of the merchandise they distribute. For this company, stopping business was not an option. SERVPRO was able to accommodate this business and work around their schedules to ensure continuation of business and prevention of any further loss.

SERVPRO responded immediately to assess the damage and create a plan of action to work around their production facilities and employees. We worked closely with staff members and with their unique production schedule to minimize interruption with warehouse and office procedures. With light soot covering nearly every product and surface at the facilities, we worked with this business to meet their production and shipping deadlines. Because there could be no delays in the flow of production, there was no room for error. In one instance, SERVPRO was able to clean over 60,000 parts in only 3 hours. By the end of this job, this business was back to normal and functioning “Like it never even happened.”

This is just one an example of SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf going above and beyond to accommodate local businesses. We are dedicated to restoring your business and avoiding business downtime. Whether you have a small business or a large commercial operation, SERVPRO has the skills and dedication to get the job done quick and with minimal interruption.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Odor Elimination?

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals assess your odor source and present you with the best options for elimination.

Unpleasant odors can be tough to get rid of in your home or business. This is especially true following a fire. Even a small fire can cause oppressive odors to linger for years unless the soiled areas are properly cleaned and deodorized. Left untreated, the aftermath of the soot and smoke from fires can become permanent. This is because, as smoke and soot travels throughout your structure, residues and deposits can get left behind in hard to reach places; the longer this sits, the more time it has to soak into the affected surfaces or materials.

At SERVPRO, our highly trained technicians have years of experience cleaning and deodorizing odor sources. Whether you have odor caused by fire, mold, pets, or cigarette smoke, we have the experience and expertise to tackle any size job at your home or business. We do not simply cover up the orders with fragrances; instead, our team of professionals pin-point the exact location of your odor and eliminate the source. Once we identify the source, we use our own proprietary cleaning products designed to eliminate odors and prevent them from returning. This service also includes any items within range of your odor problem that also need treatment, such as furniture, draperies, floors, walls, HVAC systems, ceilings, and more.

If you are in need of deodorization services, call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf today at 563-386-3540 and we will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Choose SERVPRO for Commercial Cleaning Services

4/15/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO works around your business's schedule.

As a business owner, you understand the importance of maintaining a clean and odor free office space, and how the appearance of your business reflects on your reputation. As everyday wear and tear gradually soils your office space, it can often be a challenge for your regular cleaner or janitorial staff to tackle the grime. Whether you have an odor problem, soiled carpet, or simply need general cleaning services, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is “Here to Help.”

SERVPRO offers full service capabilities that deliver a deeper clean than your average cleaning company. With 24/7 service, we will respond quickly to assess the amount of soil and determine the best cleaning options.

Below you will find the various commercial cleaning services we offer:

• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

If your local business is in need of cleaning services, call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf today at 563-386-3540. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Extinguisher Aftermath Safety

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers play a crucial role in minimizing the impact that a fire can have on your home or business structure. Having one close by is critical to reducing your chances of large loses. An otherwise small fire can easily grow and spread throughout a structure quickly without the presence an extinguisher. In fact, in 75% of the cases where a fire extinguisher was used, a fire department was not required for assistance.

At the same time, the chemical spray from fire extinguishers can be potentially corrosive to materials in your home or office and harmful to your skin and when inhaled. For this reason, once you have successfully put out your fire, it is important to take precautions in cleaning up the sprayed areas. Below is a list of tips to keep you and your family or employees safe until SERVPRO arrives:

• Do not use a broom to clean up the dust, as this can aerosolize fine particles.
• Make sure the area is properly ventilated.
• Wash hands and any skin that comes into contact with the spray.
• Make sure family members and employees are trained in the use of fire extinguishers.

If you have used a fire extinguisher in your home or business, act fast to avoid further damage to your home, business or belongings and call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Spring Cleaning?

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Winter is over and spring has begun; it’s time to clean! While SERVPRO provides disaster clean-up services after fires and water damage, we are also highly trained in residential cleaning services. In fact, SERVPRO of Davenport-Bettendorf has the expertise to provide a deeper clean than your basic house cleaning service.

HVAC Cleaning

SERVPRO can inspect your HVAC system and ductwork, and provide cleaning services to help restore peak energy efficiency, remove offensive odors and improve the quality of indoor air.

Carpet Cleaning

At SERVPRO we use the latest IICRC training, in addition to state of the art equipment, to remove stains trapped deep in your carpet.

Stain Removal

We will use IICRC standards to determine the best cleaning options for your particular stain and provide soil protection options for your carpet.

Odor Identification and Deodorization

At SERVPRO, we go straight to the source of your odor problem and determine the best methods for neutralization and elimination of the odor source.

Upholstery and Drapes

SERVPRO can help lengthen the life of your drapes and furniture with regular cleaning. We will inspect and test your items to determine the safest and most effective cleaning method.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Davenport / Bettendorf?

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Highly Trained Staff

At SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf, our staff is highly trained in all aspects of property damage restoration. Our employees receive ongoing training that is both hands on and web based.  Additionally, our employees obtain certification from the Institute of Inspection and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC is the certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. IICRC Standards are developed to provide the highest quality concepts, terminology, and procedures recognized in the cleaning and restoration industry. Given our dedication to employee development, rest assured our restoration professionals will make damage to your home or business “Like it never even happened."

Technology

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf uses advanced technology to bring your home or business to preloss condition effectively, reliably, and as fast as possible. Our advanced technology incorporates scientific principles from the field of Psychrometry. By controlling humidity, airflow, and the temperature of your property, we are able to remove moisture and dry affected areas quickly, preventing additional damage. 

Examples of tools we use:

• Infrared cameras and moisture sensors identify water location—it’s the water you can’t see that does the most damage.
• Thermo-hygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity, which allows us to calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.
• Commercial Dehumidifiers, both refrigerant and desiccant, absorb moisture from the air
• DryBook Mobile is SERVPRO’s proprietary software program that uses the latest technology to ensure your property is drying quickly and efficiently. DryBook provided real-time documentation of the drying process and validates that the equipment used and services performed are executed to the IICRC Standard.

24 Hour Emergency Service

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf provides emergency services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This means no matter the day or time, we are here to help in your time of need. We are also faster to any size emergency, helping you to minimize damages to your property, as well as the cost for cleaning and restoration. This is especially important with water, as it spreads rapidly throughout your property into floors, walls, and furniture.

If you have an emergency, let SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf use our talented staff, advanced technology, and rapid response to make it “Like it never even happened." Call us at 563-386-3540.

Preparing For a Flood

3/13/2019 (Permalink)

With the large amounts of melting snow up north, coupled with forecasts of heavy rain, this flood season is set to be an historic one. For this reason, it is important that you and your family are prepared. This means paying close attention to local weather predictions, being mindful of possible road closures, and following instructions from local authorities when applicable. If flooding in your area is probable, have a safe place nearby where you can temporarily relocate, such as with a family member or friend. Also, if you have pets, make sure to have food and water, vaccination papers, and proper housing arrangements made, such as animal-friendly hotels.

In addition, the American Red Cross recommends having certain items packed and ready to go for when a flood hits. See the list below of some of these essential items:

• Water—3+ day supply (1 gallon per person per day)
• Food—3+ day supply (non-perishable, easy to prepare)
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Extra batteries
• First-Aid kit
• Medications
• Extra cash
• Emergency blankets

For more information, please call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540.

Tornadoes: How Do they Work?

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

What are they?

A tornado, often called a twister, is a rapidly circulating column of air extending from the clouds of a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can create winds exceeding 300 miles per hour; though, even much slower winded tornadoes can cause destruction.

While, most often, tornadoes last only a few minutes and do not travel much more than a mile before they disappear, others grow to massive sizes and travel for several miles, causing widespread devastation to communities.

What causes them?

Tornadoes spawn out of severe thunderstorms as warm, moist air and cool, dry air is combined. As these 2 air types collide, an instability is created. As a change in wind direction takes place, coupled with an increase in wind speed, a horizontal spinning effect begins in the lower atmosphere. Then, as air rises toward the sky, the horizontal rotating winds become vertical, thus creating the tornadoes we all recognize.

How to Prevent a House Fire

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

Damage caused by a fire can be extremely devastating for your family and home. By being prepared and taking essential precautions, such as regular safety checks, you can drastically reduce your chances of suffering the losses that come with fire damage.

Smoke Alarms

Make sure to test your smoke alarms at least every 6 months and to change the batteries as needed. Don’t ignore a “chirp”—if your smoke detector is chirping, the battery should be changed immediately to ensure it functions properly in case of a fire.

Heating Sources

Make sure to inspect heating devices in your home. Whether you have a forced air furnace or use space heaters, it is important to ensure that they are functioning properly to avoid a possible fire. This means changing filters or discarding heaters with damaged wires. In addition, your risk for a fire can be reduced substantially with yearly inspections.

Cooking

Always be sure that nothing flammable is on or near your oven or stove top, such as curtains, potholders, rags, or paper towels. Also never leave burners unattended while you are cooking, as this is a leading cause of house fires. If you must leave the room, remove the pot or pan from the heating source and turn it off.

Dryer

It is important to keep the lint trap on your dryer clean, as it can be a possible fuel source for an impending fire. For the same reason, make sure to check behind the dryer for stray lint or objects that may have fallen. Also, if you have a gas dryer, it is helpful to have it inspected once a year to ensure all connections are secure.

Electrical Cords

Always be aware of where cords are plugged in and that they are being used properly—this means not overloading outlets or power strips with too many electrical devices. Also watch out for any damaged wires and repair or replace them as needed. And remember, because electrical cords can produce heat, do not cover them with anything, such as with rugs or furniture.

For more information, please contact SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540.

Tips To Prevent Winter Heat-Source Fires

3/7/2019 (Permalink)

Fireplaces should always have a screen

Whether you use a furnace, wood-stove, fireplace, or space heaters to heat your home during the winter, operating each of these devices correctly will greatly reduce your chances of a fire.

Furnaces: Periodically check and/or change your air filter to avoid flammable build-ups. Schedule annual inspections of your furnace to ensure it is functioning properly.

Fireplaces: Always use a metal or tempered-glass screen while operating your fireplace. It is also important to have your chimney and/or vents cleaned and inspected at least once a year.

Woodstoves: Never leave a woodstove door open. The only time the door should be open is when you are A) starting the fire, or B) adding wood to an existing fire.

Space Heaters/Electric Radiators: Always plug space heaters directly into a wall; this means no extension cords or surge protectors. Be sure that your space heater has an automatic shut-off in case it tips over. Always keep any flammables at least 3 feet away from heat sources.

Steps to Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

1/25/2019

You wake up on a cold winter morning, head into the bathroom or kitchen, turn the faucet and … a trickle. Or, nothing at all.

You have a frozen pipe. What do you do now? Better yet, how do you avoid this messy, potentially expensive situation in the first place?

Here are some ideas to help keep the water flowing inside, even as the freeze sets in outside:

Before It Gets Cold

• Drain water supply lines to your sprinkler and swimming pool. Don't put antifreeze in the lines; spills or leaks can threaten pets, wildlife and landscaping.
   
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before putting them in storage. Place an inexpensive foam cover over the faucet. Better yet, close the inside valves that supply water to the hose bibs. Then open the outside hose bibs to let any remaining water drain out, and leave them open.
   
• Insulate water pipes with pipe sleeves, heat tape or heat cable, particularly pipes that run through unheated areas of the house, such as attics, basements, crawl spaces and garages.

As Temperatures Drop

• Keep your house warm, and allow the warm air to circulate as much as possible. Seal drafts and keep interior doors open. If you’re going to be gone for an extended period, don’t turn off the heat. Keep it set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
   
• Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow heat to reach the pipes. Be sure to move cleaners and other chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
   
• Open indoor faucets, hot and cold, to allow a trickle of water. Flowing water is less likely to freeze.

When a Pipe Freezes

• The first thing to do, faced with the telltale trickle, is try to find where the pipe is frozen. Keep the faucet open, and open other faucets in the house to determine if the problem is widespread. If it is, turn off the main water supply and call a plumber.
   
• If it's a single pipe, and you can reach the frozen section, try using a hair dryer, heating pad or portable space heater – just never leave it running unattended. Keep the faucet open and work up and down the pipe, starting at the faucet and working backward to the frozen section. Apply heat until full water pressure returns, then reduce the flow to a trickle until the cold snap ends.
   
• An alternative method: Wrap the frozen section with towels soaked in hot water. Don't pour hot water directly on a frozen pipe, and don't use a propane torch or other open flame.

If these approaches don't work, or if you have a leaking or burst pipe, don't hesitate to turn off the main water supply and call in a licensed plumber. And, be sure to touch base with your insurance agent, too, preferably before a crisis. You'll want to know whether you're covered for burst pipes and the ensuing water damage

Water, Water, Everywhere

1/25/2019 (Permalink)

1/25/2019

Water and moisture can cause both structural and content damage when unnoticed.  Even a small leak, left untreated, can lead to big loses. 

Because mold growth can begin in less than 48 hours, water damage should be handled by trained professionals who have the equipment and knowledge to treat the situation, regardless of the size.

If you experience a water situation there are some things you can do until help arrives;

• Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas when access to the power distribution panel is safe from shock.
• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe water from wood furniture and remove from the wet area, if possible, otherwise place aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Remove from walls or wet areas all items that are valuable or sensitive to moisture - i.e. paintings, art objects, computers, documents, etc.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet flooring.

If you have experienced water damage in recent months, call the professionals at SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf to access your situation and provide fast, effective clean up.

Defense Against Mold Growth

8/13/2018 (Permalink)

Proper home maintenance is vital to avoid mold growth, which can be visible in as little as 24-48 hours under certain conditions.  To avoid mold growth:

• Keep the humidity between 30 to 60 percent.
• Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations.
• Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
• Keep gutters clean and make sure downspouts  are attached. 
• Inspect the roof windows and other areas where water might  enter the building.
• Respond  to all water intrusions immediately.

If you do everything right but still have a mold problem, call SERVPRO for assistance.  Our trained professionals will work to mitigate damage and protect your belongings.  Our goal is to make it Like It Never Even Happened. 

Trust your local SERVPRO --we're faster to any size disaster!

What you need to know about flooded basements

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Davenport, Bettendorf, Muscatine or Clinton basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - (563) 386-3540

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (563) 386-3540

What to do when affected by storm damage

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (563) 386-3540

What is the mold remediation process?

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

In as little as 48 hours, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business when there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line.

Although every mold damage scenario is different requiring a unique solution, the general mold remediation process stays the same. The following are “typical” steps taken to remove mold:

1. Call (563) 386-3540 SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf

A representative will ask a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

 2. Inspection and mold damage assessment

Your property will be carefully inspected for signs of mold using various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold feeds on cellulose and water and can be hidden from plain view.

 3. Mold containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold, like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

 4. Air filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. Our professionals utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in progress.

 5. Removing mold and mold-infested materials

This will depend on the amount of mold growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears. Antifungal and antimicrobial treatments will be used to eliminate mold colonies and help prevent new colonies from forming.

 6. Cleaning contents and belongings

We can help you clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We use a variety of cleaning techniques to clean and sanitize your belongings. Trained to remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

 7. Restoration

Depending on the level of mold damage, drywall, subfloors, and other building materials may be removed. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 if you need assistance. We understand mold and mold growth and have the training equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

7 things you need to know about smoke alarms

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms save lives when properly installed and maintained. Below are a few tips to take into consideration when thinking of your home or businesses fire alarms.  

1. Test smoke alarms monthly.

Hold down the test button to hear the alarm sound. If faint or non-existent, it’s time to replace the batteries.

2. Know when to replace the batteries and the unit.

Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries need the entire smoke alarm unit replaced every ten years. Other alarms need batteries replaced every year, and the unit replaced every ten.

3. Identify how many smoke alarms you need.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), smoke alarms should be on every level, including the basement. It is recommended to install a smoke alarm in every bedroom.

4. Do not paint your smoke alarm.

Smoke alarms are designed to have airflow. Painting your alarm may cause issues with fire detection.

5. Smoke alarms should be interconnected.

All of the alarms in the home should sound, not just one. This keeps all quarters notified.

6. Consider a combination alarm.

Carbon monoxide gas is extremely toxic and dangerous. It is odorless and tasteless, making it very difficult to detect. Purchase a fire alarm that includes a carbon monoxide sensor.

7. Ask a professional to install detectors.

If you need help installing, testing or changing batteries in your smoke alarms, contact your local fire department, an electrician or the American Red Cross.

Be sure your home or workplace has a fire emergency plan in place and conduct regular fire drills. And remember, when in doubt throw it out. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

For more information on Emergency Preparedness, contact SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540.

Do’s and Don’ts of drying out clean water in home or business

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

The following are a few helpful tips on action you or your family can follow until SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf arrives:

DO

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpeting or hardwood floors.
• Open and place luggage in sunlight to dry, if possible.

DON’T

• Leave wet fabrics in place; dry as soon as possible.
• Leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Use TV’s or other household appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

Take the proper precautions when dealing with water damage. Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. Your local SERVPRO professionals have the training and equipment to help make it, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (563) 386-3540.

What you should have in your emergency supply kit

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of the following intense storms:

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms
• 5,000 floods or flash floods
• 1,000 tornadoes
• 2 land-falling deadly hurricanes

Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives of others.

Know your risk

Understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family.

Take action

Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an example

Share your story with co-workers, family, and friends. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.

Build an emergency supply 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 bandannas
• 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

Contact SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf professionals for additional readiness tips and tools, including SERVPRO’s FREE Emergency Ready Profile. Learn more and be “Ready for whatever happens!”

(563) 386-3540

Who to call for a water damage

4/11/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in the Quad Cities and surrounding areas.

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

Faster Response

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

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

Whether storms hit Davenport, Bettendorf, Muscatine, or Clinton, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 563-386-3540

Be prepared for severe weather

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Being prepared to act quickly can be critical to staying safe during a weather event. Many businesses affected by major disasters never reopen—especially if they do not have an emergency plan in place. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared.

Know Your Risk.

Understanding the type of hazardous weather, how it can affect you, your family or employees is important. Check the weather forecast regularly, and obtain a NOAA Weather Radio.

Take Action.

Create a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and materials in a safe place.

Be an Example.

Share your preparedness story with your family and friends. Inspire others to do the same.

Preparation is key in making it through any size disaster and having a plan in place may help. Don’t wait until disaster strikes. Call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 to establish your Emergency Ready Profile and be “ready for whatever happens.”

Mold removal process

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can spread extremely quickly; in as little as 48 hours it can become a problem in your home or business. Although every mold damage scenario differs, the general mold remediation process stays the same. Below are the “typical” mold removal steps for this process:

1. Call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563)-386-3540.

The mold cleanup restoration process begins when you call us. We will assess your situation by asking you a series of questions to help determine the necessary equipment, resources, and personnel needed.

2. Inspection and mold damage assessment

We will carefully inspect your property for signs of mold using various technologies to detect mold and hidden water sources. Mold can be hidden from plain view. 

3. Mold containment

Various containment procedures will be placed to prevent the spread of mold, like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

4. Air filtration

Specialized filtration equipment captures microscopic mold spores out of the air. Powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums will be utilized to prevent the spread of these mold spores.

5. Removing mold and mold-infested materials

This will depend on the amount of growth and the types of surfaces on which the mold appears.

6. Cleaning contents and belongings

We will clean your furniture, décor, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold.

7. Restoration

Depending on the level of damage, restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, paintings, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540. We understand mold and mold growth and have the training and equipment to remediate mold in your home or business.

Managing mold

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Contraire to the popular belief, not all mold is dangerous. Some mold is useful. Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment. More than 100,000 different types of fungi have been discovered. Fungi is present in our everyday lives in bread and baked products. Although some types are useful, some may be harmful. Excessive amounts of mold and mold exposure may present negative effects for some people.

The intrusion of water into your home or business may result in mold growth. Water intrusions can be caused by storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long standing leaks and poor humidity control. When these water intrusions are not addressed immediately, then the risk of harmful mold increases. Organic materials found inside a building such as wood, drywall, paper, and insulations, provide a food source for mold, allowing growth to flourish.

When determining if you have a mold problem, be alert for: the presence of visible mold, strong musty odors, evidence of past moisture problems and excessive humidity.

If you fear you have a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386- 3540. We are here to help.

Ready plan to stay in business

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Ready business asks companies to take three simple steps: plan to stay in business encourage your people to become Ready and protect your investment.

Ready Business, and extension of the ready campaign, helps business owners and managers of small and medium sized businesses prepare their employees, operations and assets in the event of an emergency. The business section of Ready.gov contains vital information for businesses on how to get started preparing their business and their unique needs during an emergency.

The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan:

Organize an emergency preparedness procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans.

Once a plan is developed, post evacuation procedures, including routes and exits, where they are easily accessible to all employees.

Conduct office evacuation exercises and drills. Have SERVPRO conduct a no cost ERP for your business.

Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563)-386-3540 to establish your Emergency READY Profile.

How to manage damage from clean water or damage from contaminated water

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Damage from clean water

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so
• Turn off circuit breakers from wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water, as electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow more even drying.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Damage from contaminated water

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated items.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

When you have a water damage, don’t leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540.

Tools to help you be prepared for severe weather

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

One of the easiest ways to protect yourself during sever weather is to have a weather radio in your home or office. It is just as important to have a radio as it is to have a fire alarm according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

A weather radio is designed to alert you of dangerous weather situations. Allows you to be warned in order to be safe. Most major retailers and online stores offer weather radios with these features for around $30. The following are the most important features to look for in a weather radio:

• Reviewable alerts (you can scroll through alerts and turn off the siren for alerts you do not wish to hear).
• Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) alert programming (alerts when specific counties are threatened, ensuring you only receive alerts for your county)..
• Ease of programming.

Remember to be safe and keep track of weather conditions. When fire or water damage puts the things that matter most on the line, you need the very best help on the line as well. Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 to get the team that’s faster to any size disaster.

Be ready with the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Program

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO emergency READY Profile (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are “Ready for whatever happens.”

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO ERP, can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off valve locations and priority areas. It is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free ready plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP establishes SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 45 years of experience and a system more than 1,700 franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation.

The ERP is a no cost assessment, all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future. Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 to establish your Emergency READY Profile. 

What you need to know about mold

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

When determining if you have a mold problem, be alert for: the presence of visible mold, strong musty odors, evidence of past moisture problems and excessive humidity. The intrusion of water into your home or business may result in mold growth. Water intrusions can be caused by storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long standing leaks and poor humidity control. When these water damages are not addresses right away, the resulting damage can be an increased risk of harmful mold.

SERVPRO professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth. Mold is more likely to spread when an environment has been subject to moisture for an extended period of time. If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly. Once the environment is dry, I tis important the structure is properly cleaned.

If you fear you have a mold problem, call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540. A technician trained in mold remediation will examine the structure and determine the steps needed to contain and clean the affected areas.

Effective drying process to rid water and mold

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

There’s no such thing as a small disaster—especially when the water you don’t see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot and other unseen damage. When there’s a water intrusion, like a roof leak or leaking water line, mold can quickly become a problem in your home or business.

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages such as mold.

If your business suffers from a water or mold damage give SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf a call at (563) 386-3540. We are ready to help.

Shocking facts about lightning

1/5/2018 (Permalink)

Lightning is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities. Though the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year around 1 in 500,000, some factors can put you at greater risk for being struck. Here are a few lightning safety tips.

Be aware.

Check the forecast before participating in outdoor activities. If it calls for thunderstorms, postpone your trip or activity, or make sure adequate safe shelter is available.

Go indoors.

Remember the phrase, “When thunder roars, go indoors.” Find a safe, enclosed shelter when you hear thunder. Safe shelters include homes, offices, shopping centers, and hard-top vehicles with the windows rolled up.

Avoid windows, doors, porches, and concrete.

Do not lie on concrete floors and avoid leaning on concrete walls. Lightening can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

If you fear you have storm damage, call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 396-3540. We are here to help.

Fire, Smoke and Soot Restoration Services

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Structural Cleaning

After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf will pretest to determine the extent of damage. We use specific equipment and cleaning products to clean and protect different types of surfaces. Depending on the amount of soot, we may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits.

Contents Cleaning

All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies, and upholstery. We will begin by inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure in order to determine the most appropriate cleaning method. All other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, bric-a-brac and much more. IF requested, we can provide an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items.

Deodorization

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf provides specialized services which ride your property of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. It is important to note that we do not merely mask the doors with a fragrance, we seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.

If your property does suffer fire damage, we are readily available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. Contact SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540. We are always here to help.

Emergency Fire Damage Process Overview

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

One Hour

Within one hour from notice of loss, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf will contact you to arrange for service. You will know help is on the way.

Four Hours

A project manager will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

Detailed Explanation

A project manager will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

Pretesting

A project manager will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

Eight Hours

A verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager,

Cleaning, Restoration, and Deodorization

SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf professionals will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time.

Final Walk-Through

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

If your property does suffer fire damage, we are readily available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. Contact SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540. We are always here to help.

Additional services we can provide to restore your business

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

• Board ups- In some cases it may be important to secure openings to your home or structure using sturdy, durable materials designed to protect it from both weather intrusion and intrusion by outside factors.

• Inventory- SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf uses Contents Claim Inventory Service technology which can generate a comprehensive room by room inventory check. Contents are categorized as salvageable, non salvageable and questionable.

• Move-outs- If prolonged exposure to the loss event could cause additional damage to your contents, your contractor requests relocation of the contents, or the safety of your contents is a concern, a move out may be recommended.

• Electronics cleaning- Smoke residues can contain acids that corrode metal surfaces when moisture is also present. IF the residues are not removed, corrosion can eat away at the metal casing and can ultimately cause electronic failure in the device.

• Artwork- Artwork ranges from inexpensive framed pictures to extremely valuable fine art. Restoration of valuable art requires the use of a trained art restorer, while less expensive art may not warrant these costly specialized services.

If your commercial property needs any of these additional services, give SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf a call at (563) 386-3540.

An empty restaurant can cost you money

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

No matter the reason, when a restaurant is unable to open its doors, the cost can become significant. SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf understands the urgency of getting fire, water or mold damages taken care of quickly and correctly to minimize business interruption and recovery costs.

We provide 24-hour emergency services, as well as specialized cleaning services for emergency or special situations. We utilize 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines to help ensure fast response and timely mitigation. Additionally, we offer maintenance services, such as hood and kitchen exhaust cleaning, helping to ensure your restaurant is always clean and ready for business. Our goal is to get your business up and running as fast as possible while reducing or eliminating interruptions. We work around your schedule—your convenience. We are here to help.

If your restaurant needs any of these services, give SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf a call at (563) 386-3540.

Halt Winter Heating Hazards

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

Around this time of the year, we encounter changes in weather and low temperatures. In an effort to stay warm, many people use alternative heat sources such as fireplaces or space heaters.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the annual direct property damage from heating fires is estimated at a whopping $1 billion dollars. This is a serious matter and it is important to abide by the following safety tips to reduce your risk of a heating-related fire:

• Keep anything flammable at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or a portable space heater. Have a three foot "kid-free zone" around open fires and space heaters.
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container at a safe distance away from your home. 
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed. 
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters. 
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. 
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer's instructions.
• Test smoke alarms monthly. 

If your property does suffer fire damage, we are readily available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Contact SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540. We are always here to help.  

Be Ready!

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can and you must prepare for it. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) will help ensure you are "Ready for whatever happens".

Below is a list of advantages of the Emergency READY Profile:

• A no-cost assessment of your facility.
• A concise profile document containing only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
• Establishes your SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
• Identification of the line of comment for authorizing work to begin.
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information. 

Preparation is key to make it through any size disaster. Having a plan  in place will help minimize the business interruptions when a situation of this matter occurs. Don't wait until disaster strikes-be READY. Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 to establish your Emergency READY Profile. 

Holiday Safety: By the Numbers

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

The Holiday season is a time for joy and happiness. But unfortunately, at times it can also bring danger. Fires around the winter time are at it's peak. They can claim the lives of many Americans and injure even more. The statistics below are provided by the United States Fire Administration (UFSA): 

400

The average number of lives lost due to holiday fires. 

1,650 

The average number of injuries due to holiday fires.

$990 million

The average cost in damages due to holiday fires. 

We can decrease these numbers by taking safety precautions. Always remember to:

• Use only non-flammable decorations
• Maintain Holiday lights
• Do not overload electrical outlets
• Avoid using lit candles
• Don't block exits 

Consider all of this information as you enter the holiday season. Whether you are ready for the holidays or not, SERVPRO will always be ready. And always ready to help you. If disaster does strike your home or business during the holiday season, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,  365 days a year. Call us at (563) 386-3540.

Is your business winter ready?

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

If you are not prepared, cold weather can elicit a drastic impact on your business. From heavy rain to freezing temperatures to damaging winds, sleet, or snow. All of these are serious weather related situations that may cause property damage. 

While you cannot control the weather, you can control your preparedness. You can take steps to help prevent costly damages. Consider taking the following precautions to protect your commercial property:

• Check your business property for downed tree limbs and branches. Wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow can cause branches to fall, which could cause damage to the property and potentially cause personal injuries.
• Roofs, water pipes, and gutters should all be inspected to ensure they are in proper order. Gutter downspouts should be directed away from your building. Clear gutters of debris that may have gathered during the fall. Leaves and other obstructions can cause a damming effect, which can lead to roof damage and interior water problems.
• Inspect property, especially walkways and parking lots, for proper drainage to alleviate flood hazard potential. 
• Inspect all handrails, stairwells, and entryways to address and correct potential slippery or hazardous areas. Install mats or non-slip surfaces and post caution signs where water should be present. 
• Protect water pipes from freezing by simply allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If pipes are under a cabinet, leave the cabinet doors open, allowing warm inside air to circulate around the pipes. If the building has outdoor facets, consider shutting water off at the main valve in the basement. Once the valve is off, open the outdoor faucet to ensure it drains, preventing any remaining water from freezing in the pipe. 
• Ask SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf to complete an Emergency READY Profile for your business. The ERP is a no-cost assessment to your facility and provides you with a plan to get back in business fast following a disaster. 

When winter weather strikes, call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540 to strike back. 

2017 A Year of Storms—Were You Prepared?

12/8/2017 (Permalink)

Major storms from Hurricane Harvey that ravaged the Texas and Louisiana gulf shores and Hurricane Irma that tore a path from the northeastern Caribbean Islands to the gulf shores of the Florida coast to 1,321 tornadoes that occurred from January through August all brought devastation across the United States.  Often times we do not know where or when disasters or emergencies will strike, but you can be ready.

Now is the time to think about the basics—the things you would need in advance of an emergency; how will you communicate, what supplies do you need to keep in your home, car or office.  The more you know about what to do in a storm emergency, the more confident and secure you will feel in your abilities to manage through a disaster.

Recommended Items for a Basic Emergency Supply 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 with tone alert and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Garbage bags, plastic sheeting and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn  off utilities, if necessary
• Hygiene items
• Important documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Candles and matches in a waterproof container

If disasters do strike, call the professionals at SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540 to help you mitigate the damage and restore your life.  The first steps taken in a disaster situation can mean the difference between recovery and total loss.

8 Ways to Avoid Holiday Fires

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

December is the peak time of year for fires. In particularly, candle fires. Listed below are 8 things you should not do this holiday season:

1. Do not place candles on cluttered surfaces. Place them at least 12 inches away from anything that burns.
2. Do not use flammable decorations.
3. Do not place Christmas decor close to any heat source. Christmas trees and decor should be at least three feet away.
4. Do not overload electrical outlets.
5. Do not link more than three Christmas lights together.
6. Do not leave candles or lights on when you are leaving your property.
7. Do not plug space heaters into extension cords. Only directly into outlets.
8. Do not succumb to unattended cooking. Stay in the kitchen and keep an eye on cooking ware and cooking surfaces.

With all things considered, keep this list in mind as you prepare for holiday festivities. Our goal is to help keep homes merry and bright!

If disaster does strike, we are readily available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

What you need to know about electrical fires

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

As we are thrust into the colder months, the amount of time spent indoors increases significantly. As a result of this, more appliances are generated. Many light and heat sources are utilized for both warmth and for holiday decor. During this time of the year, it is no surprise that heating and electric bills rise. However, the risk of an electrical fire rises as well.  December and January are the peak months for electrical fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Association report, US Fire departments respond to approximately 48,000 electrical-related fires annually. The cause of these fires may be due to faulty circuits, overloaded outlets, or electrical failures. Further research cited that 74 percent of residential fires were caused by some type of electrical failure or malfunction which contributed to the ignition.

Avoid these electrical fires by following these safety precautions:

• Replace or repair damaged or loose electrical cords.
• Avoid running extension cords across doorways or under carpets. Consider having additional outlets added by a qualified electrician so you do not have to use extension cords.
• Avoid overloading outlets. Plug only one high-wattage appliance into each receptacle outlet at a time.
• If outlets or switches feel warm, frequent problems with blowing fuses or tipping circuits, or flickering or dimming lights, call a qualified electrician.  

Water, water everywhere

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

Water and moisture can cause both structural and content damage when unnoticed.  Even a small leak, left untreated, can lead to big loses. 

Because mold growth can begin in less than 48 hours, water damage should be handled by trained professionals who have the equipment and knowledge to treat the situation, regardless of the size.

If you experience a water situation there are some things you can do until help arrives;

• Shut off the source of the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas when access to the power distribution panel is safe from shock.
• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe water from wood furniture and remove from the wet area, if possible, otherwise place aluminum foil between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• Remove from walls are wet area all items that are valuable or sensitive to moisture. e. – Paintings, art objects, computers, documents, etc.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet flooring.

If you have experienced water damage in recent months, call the professionals at SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf to access your situation and provide fast, effective clean up.

You Can Protect Your Property with Water Preventative Tools

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

Undetected water can cause a great deal of damage to a building structure and contents.  To prevent this type of disaster a home or business owner can install water detection systems.  Water leak detection systems help identify leaks which, in some circumstances, can help prevent a flood. Water monitoring systems are generally activated at the first sign of excess moisture or seepage resulting from a leak.

Water Alarms:  Water alarms also known as leak sensors are typically battery-operated stand-alone systems contacting a moisture sensor that will activate an audible alarm when moisture is detected.  Benefits of water alarms are accessibility and price.  They are fairly inexpensive and easy to install.

Water Systems:  While most water alarms simply notify you of a leak, water systems will actually shot off the water supply causing water damage.  The downside to water systems is that they only  apply to water caused by an appliance or water supply and do not  cover water that occurs from rain, broken pipes or or sump pump failure.

Leak Prevention Tips

Regularly check the following items for leaks:

• Check roofing for deterioration.
• Check gutters and downspouts for blockage.
• Check basements and crawl space for moisture.
• Check under and around appliances.
• Check sinks and toilets.
• Check HVAC for leaks and blockage.

If you suspect you have suffered a water damage—past or present, call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf for fast, courteous and knowledgeable service.  563-386-3540

TIME IS MONEY

12/7/2017 (Permalink)

The old adage is never more true than when dealing with a water-damaged home or business.  Every minute matters, because every minute the property remains wet could turn primary damage into serious damage—or even permanent damage.  That’s why emergency response matters.

Floods, broken pipes and leaks don’t abide by the 9-to-5 workday.  So why should your restoration provider?  SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with state of the art equipment and proven methods to get the job done quickly and effectively.

If you find water creeping into your life, pick up the phone and call your local SERVPRO.  Their highly trained professionals can help you avoid the cost and inconvenience of serious and permanent damage to your home and possessions.  Call SERVPRO Davenport/Bettendorf at 563-386-3540—we’re faster to any size disaster.

Join the SERVPRO team as a Cleaning and Restoration Technician

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

We're Hiring!

Cleaning and Restoration Technician

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf-Moline/Rock Island is now accepting applications for full time, career-oriented team members. We specialize in residential and commercial cleanup and restoration caused by fire, water and mold.  In addition, we do carpet cleaning, duct cleaning, post construction, crime scene, biohazard, and vandalism cleaning.

We are rapidly growing operation with great opportunity for advancement!  Our team is seeking people who are comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoy meeting new people and have excellent communication skills. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment.

As a valued SERVPRO^® employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, benefits, and the opportunity to learn and grow.

Primary Responsibilities

• Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.
• Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.
• Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Utilize tools and equipment to perform services.
• Use ipad and software to record job related information
• Assist the crew leader and other production personnel.
• Perform production processes following SERVPRO^® production guidelines.
• Follow instruction on written work orders and per crew chief instructions.
• Ensure clear two-way communication with crew chief and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).
• Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown. Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Assume responsibility, deal effectively with problems, and exercise independent judgment when making decisions 
• Complete detailed job records.

Minimum Requirements

• Ability to work a rotating on-call schedule, and nights and weekends when necessary.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record and ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)
• Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects
• Ability to work with/around cleaning products
• High school diploma/GED
• Basic math skills
• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred but not required.

Pay Rate and Hours

Starting wage between $11 - $12 per hour, depending on experience. We offer health and dental insurance, Paid Time Off (PTO), and SIMPLE Retirement Plan. 

Hours are Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 4:30pm (or until job complete), plus nights and weekends as necessary.  

To apply, email resume to ronda@SERVPROdavenport.com or stop into the office at 7208 N. Jebens Avenue in Davenport.

No phone calls please.

Join the SERVPRO team as a Carpet Cleaning Technician

8/4/2017 (Permalink)

Carpet Cleaning Technician

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf-Moline/Rock Island is now accepting applications for full time, career-oriented team members. We specialize in residential and commercial cleanup and restoration caused by fire, water and mold.  In addition, we do carpet cleaning, duct cleaning, post construction, crime scene, biohazard, and vandalism cleaning.

We are rapidly growing operation with great opportunity for advancement!  Our team is seeking people who are comfortable working hard in challenging situations, enjoy meeting new people and have excellent communication skills. If you are self-motivated and have superb interpersonal skills, then you’ll thrive in this work environment.

As a valued SERVPRO^® employee, you will receive a competitive pay rate, benefits, and the opportunity to learn and grow.

As a Carpet Cleaning Technician, your primary responsibility will be to provide carpet, upholstery, and rug cleaning services utilizing our Showcase cleaning process.

Additional duties associated with this position include:

• Inventory and load the work vehicle with equipment, products, and supplies needed for each project.
• Maintain a clean and organized vehicle and clean equipment appearance.
• Prepare rooms/areas for work activities. Set up staging area and equipment for each project.
• Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Utilize tools and equipment to perform services.
• Assist other technicians.
• Perform cleaning processes following SERVPRO^®
• Follow instruction on written work orders.
• Ensure clear two-way communication with manager and other technicians (especially regarding customer needs and concerns).
• Perform end-of-day/end-of-job cleanup and breakdown. Leave jobsite with a clean and orderly appearance.
• Assume responsibility, deal effectively with problems, and exercise independent judgment when making decisions 
• Complete detailed job records.
• Work with production crew when not providing carpet services.

Minimum Requirements

• Ability to work a rotating on-call schedule, and nights and weekends when necessary.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record and ability to successfully complete a background check subject to applicable law
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 100 pounds with assistance
• Ability to climb ladders, work at ceiling heights, work in tight spaces (e.g., crawls spaces, attics)
• Ability to sit/stand/walk for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to repetitively push/pull/lift/carry objects
• Ability to work with/around cleaning products
• High school diploma/GED
• Basic math skills
• Experience in cleaning/restoration preferred but not required.

Pay Rate and Hours

Starting wage between $11 - $12 per hour, depending on experience. We offer health and dental insurance, Paid Time Off (PTO), and SIMPLE Retirement Plan. 

Hours are Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 4:30pm (or until job complete), plus nights and weekends as necessary. 

To apply, email resume to ronda@SERVPROdavenport.com or stop into the office at 7208 N. Jebens Avenue in Davenport.

No phone calls please.

Prepare your home before the storm!

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

Not only does summertime bring along warmer temps, it also brings the increased risk of damaging thunderstorms to the Davenport and Bettendorf area. SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf are here to help you clean up your home or business after the storm, but right now we want to talk about what a home or business owner can do before a storm hits to help decrease the potential damages done to your structure. Here are some tips that could benefit you when a storm hits.

• Remove dead or rotting tree branches that pose a threat to your property. These branches pose a greater risk to fall and cause damage
• Secure any outdoor objects, such as lawn furniture, that could be blown away or that could potentially cause damage to your home or a neighbor's.
• Shutter your windows, and be sure to secure any outside doors. If your are not able to shutter your windows, make sure to at least close your window blinds, shades, or curtains.
• Before the storm hits your area, be sure to unplug any unnecessary electronic equipment

If a storm has damaged your home or business, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540.

Stay alert to the presence of mold

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf deal with water damages everyday. Unfortunately sometimes water damage also brings along the prospects of potentially having mold. When an area has been affected by moisture, the potential for mold increases. When water has damaged your home or business, it is of extreme importance to remove the excess water and to make sure the structure is dry. If your home or business has had an ongoing moisture problem is very important to say alert to the following conditions.

• The presence of visible mold
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused an undetected mold growth
• Excessive humidity

If you think your home or business has mold do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540!

An Emergency Supply Kit could prove life saving when a storm hits

7/19/2017 (Permalink)

When a storm is bearing down on your home there is one thing that could prove life saving to your family if the storm causes major damage to home, or neighborhood. This is the Emergency Supply Kit. Every home should have a kit made in case of a massive storm damages your home or business. These are the recommended items that you should have for your Emergency Preparedness Kit for your home or business. 

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3 day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Clothing
• Dust masks of bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Local Maps
• Hygiene items
• Important documents such as copies of insurance policies identification and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container.

Summer is here! And so are the storms!

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of DAVENPORT/BETTENDORF is here to help the next time a storm damages your home!

When Storms Hit Davenport or Bettendorf be sure to call SERVPRO!

Summer starts today, and we have already had our fair share of storms around the Quad Cities. Living here in the midwest, we all know how much damage our severe thunderstorms can cause. Hail can wreak havoc on roofs. Heavy rains can cause lead to flooded basements. Wind can knock down trees that could potentially destroy your home.

No matter how much damage a storm causes to your home or business, always remember that SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is here to help with the clean up. Next time the sirens go off in your neighborhood, all the way from Muscatine to Clinton, remember that SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is more than ready to assist your home or business with the clean up.

If Your Davenport, Bettendorf, Muscatine, or Clinton Home or Business Has Been Damaged By A Storm Call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540

If Your Home's Sump Pump Fails, SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf Can Help!

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Sump pumps are a very important feature to any home. Without getting technical, and to make a long story short, Sump Pumps keep your basement dry. When heavy rains hit, the pump kicks in and take water away from your home. It is extremely important to discuss your pump's coverage with your insurance agent, because sometimes these pumps can fail and cause damage to your home.

A power outage, from a storm for instance, can cause your pump to fail which could result in a flooded basement. SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf have seen too many sump pump failures to count. We can't service your pump, but we can help clean up when a pump malfunction damages your basement.  

If your Davenport, Bettendorf, Muscatine or Clinton home has a flooded basement due to sump pump failure call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540.

Davenport, Bettendorf, Le Claire, and Clinton Residents: Follow These Mold Safety Tips If You Suspect Mold

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

Be careful! Without proper training, you could be spreading mold throughout your home

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

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

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

About Our Mold Remediation Services

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 563-386-3540

Does Your Quad Cities Home Have A Mold Problem

3/3/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 563-386-3540

For Immediate Service in IL/IA Quad Cities Call SERVPRO

3/3/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Quad Cities Area home. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service


• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster


• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians


• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry


• Locally Owned and Operated


• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 563-386-3540

Residential Services

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

• Water Damage Restoration


• Fire Damage Restoration


• Mold Remediation


• Storm Damage Restoration


• Cleaning Services


• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

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

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration


• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

Faster to your Davenport, Bettendorf, Clinton, or Muscatine Water Damage Event

12/9/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/ Bettendorf provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Davenport, Bettendorf, Clinton and Muscatine.

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

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

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (563) 386-3540

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf

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

Restoring Your Quad Cities Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

12/9/2016 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties in Davenport, Bettendorf or surrounding areas such as Muscatine and Clinton, 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 Davenport/Bettendorf

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

Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Quad Cities home

12/8/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf 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 Davenport/Bettendorf

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf 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.

Follow these tips to prevent a cooking fire from happening in your home.

10/6/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf is available 24/7 to help if a cooking fire damages your home.

Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires. With the following tips, given to us by our friends at the National Fire Protection Association, you will be able to minimize the chances of a cooking fire happening in your home.

Cooking Safety

• If you are sleepy or if you have consumed alcohol, it is best to avoid using stove at all.
• If you are frying, grilling, or broiling food, stay in the kitchen. Even if you have to leave the kitchen for even a short amount a time, turn off the stove.
• Use a timer! Don't let yourself forget that you have food cooking.
• Keep all flammable materials away from the stovetop. Paper towels, oven mitts, wrappers, or anything else that could catch fire should be kept away.
• Keep children at least 3 feet away from the stove. 

Should you have a small grease/cooking fire...

• If a small fire occurs on the stovetop, place a lid over the pan, and turn off the burner. Do not remove until it has completely cooled.
• If a fire occurs in the oven, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.

If you have any doubts about putting out a small cooking fire..

• Get out immediately, and close the door when you leave to help prevent the fire spreading.
• Once you are outside, call 9-1-1 or your local fire department.

Should a cooking fire damage your home. Contact SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf at (563) 386-3540.

Davenport/Bettendorf 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/3/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Davenport, Bettendorf, and surrounding areas.

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (563) 386-3540

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf

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

SERVPRO at Kids Wild Fest

6/14/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf wants to thank everyone that came out to WQAD's Kids Wild Fest at Niabi Zoo in Coal Valley, IL on Saturday! It was a great time and we hope everyone that attended had a great time as well. Our staff had an absolute blast meeting so many people from the Quad City area. The weather was pretty hot but it was well worth it. We had plenty of candy and toys for the kids that stopped by our tent. It was a pleasure to let their parents know how SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf could help them out should fire, water or mold damage their home. A big thanks goes out to Ruhl & Ruhl Realtors and WQAD for putting on this event! Look for us out in the community this summer and if you see us be sure to stop and say hi!

Spring Cleaning including your carpets

4/4/2016 (Permalink)

It is that time of year again! Finally spring has arrived and not a minute too soon. After being cooped up all winter long, all of that foot traffic in your home or business has most likely made quite a mess of your carpet and rugs. The salt from the bottoms of your shoes, your pets dragging through mud then coming back in and you realize your carpets needs cleaned just like your home. Let us do the dirty work and get your carpets and rugs back into shape. Our carpet technicians will get rid of those months of dirt and grime. If winter has made a mess of your carpets call SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf today at 563-386-3540 and schedule your carpet cleaning.

Let us at SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf clean those carpets "Like it never even happened"

Melting Snow

2/17/2016 (Permalink)

The image of snow piled up against a house, or a gutter blocked with ice is not a common warning sign for homeowners. However if you have a basement or a crawlspace you are at serious risk for water damage when the temperature rises rapidly after a big storm.

These tips can help you keep melting snow from damaging your home.

Before the warm weather comes –

• Keep the perimeter of your house clear of snow and ice. This snow sitting against the foundation will slowly get into the concrete and expand when cold weather comes again. Slowly creating little pathways that may lead to the inside of your house.
• Shovel out window wells and vents. Water will find a way into any opening or crack; these are natural spots for a leak to occur. If you have covers over egress windows, clear them off as snow will start to get very heavy as it melts.

When the weather gets warm

• Clear out ice jams in gutters.  When water overflows out of the gutter it can run down the side of your house and into any penetration or seam that isn’t sealed.  Keeping the water in the gutter is a safer bet. If the jam is at the top of the downspout, be sure you can safely reach the gutters to clear them out.
• Keep walkways clear of ice. As the snow melts, it will likely move onto areas you have previously cleared off. As it freezes again, it will create a sheet of ice almost as well as a Zamboni machine. You can use a number of tools including salt, sand, de-icer or even just a shovel or ice scraper. Keep in mind salts and de-icers can damage your concrete if left to melt on the surface, and they may contain chemicals that may be harmful to grass, plants, or pets.
• Keep a close eye. Be sure you are watching for signs in areas that could be damaged. These signs can include a damp smell, wet carpet, walls that are peeling or bowing, or a dripping sound in exterior walls.

After the weather warms up

• Pay attention to what your house tells you. After the snow has cleared and you are getting ready for spring projects, you can still be at risk for water damage. The freezing and thawing may cause breaks to your water or sprinkler lines. If you have any loss in pressure you should get it looked at.
• Look for signs of problems that can be fixed. Water damage can take a while to become visible, so watch for signs that will help you prepare for next winter.
  • Do you need to add a downspout where the gutter overflows?
  • Should you add extensions to your downspouts to get water away from the house?
  • Is there siding damage next to an area where the water drips?

Steps to Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

2/8/2016 (Permalink)

You wake up on a cold winter morning, head into the bathroom or kitchen, turn the faucet and … a trickle. Or, nothing at all.

You have a frozen pipe. What do you do now? Better yet, how do you avoid this messy, potentially expensive situation in the first place?

Here are some ideas to help keep the water flowing inside, even as the freeze sets in outside:

Before It Gets Cold

• Drain water supply lines to your sprinkler and swimming pool. Don't put antifreeze in the lines; spills or leaks can threaten pets, wildlife and landscaping.
   
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before putting them in storage. Place an inexpensive foam cover over the faucet. Better yet, close the inside valves that supply water to the hose bibs. Then open the outside hose bibs to let any remaining water drain out, and leave them open.
   
• Insulate water pipes with pipe sleeves, heat tape or heat cable, particularly pipes that run through unheated areas of the house, such as attics, basements, crawl spaces and garages.

As Temperatures Drop

• Keep your house warm, and allow the warm air to circulate as much as possible. Seal drafts and keep interior doors open. If you’re going to be gone for an extended period, don’t turn off the heat. Keep it set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
   
• Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow heat to reach the pipes. Be sure to move cleaners and other chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
   
• Open indoor faucets, hot and cold, to allow a trickle of water. Flowing water is less likely to freeze.

When a Pipe Freezes

• The first thing to do, faced with the telltale trickle, is try to find where the pipe is frozen. Keep the faucet open, and open other faucets in the house to determine if the problem is widespread. If it is, turn off the main water supply and call a plumber.
   
• If it's a single pipe, and you can reach the frozen section, try using a hair dryer, heating pad or portable space heater – just never leave it running unattended. Keep the faucet open and work up and down the pipe, starting at the faucet and working backward to the frozen section. Apply heat until full water pressure returns, then reduce the flow to a trickle until the cold snap ends.
   
• An alternative method: Wrap the frozen section with towels soaked in hot water. Don't pour hot water directly on a frozen pipe, and don't use a propane torch or other open flame.

If these approaches don't work, or if you have a leaking or burst pipe, don't hesitate to turn off the main water supply and call in a licensed plumber. And, be sure to touch base with your insurance agent, too, preferably before a crisis. You'll want to know whether you're covered for burst pipes and the ensuing water damage

Understanding Mold

2/5/2016 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors, making it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts:

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

Toys For Tots

11/4/2015 (Permalink)

We are really excited to join the Quad Cities Toys for Tots program this year. Our marketing team the past two days have been delivering boxes to area businesses that have signed up as a toy drop location this year! It was great meeting all of those business owners and making a great connection in making a difference in kids holidays this year. As one of the of the official corporate partners this year we will be picking up toys up till December 12th at these businesses. SERVPRO of Davenport/Bettendorf and Molne/Rock Island are excited to be a partner in heliping "RESTORING" your Christmas spirit this year!