Looking to Invest in Commercial Property?

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Sky Rise Building Could Suffer Major Damages!

There comes a time in one’s life when they decide to buy a piece of property. When buying a commercial building, the owner must consider many things.  Commercial building owners take on a huge responsibility. When a person decides to buy a building, they carry the liability that goes along with it. Whether they use the business for themselves or they rent it out to another business entity, it is the building owners’ responsibility to maintain the building. Here at SERVPRO we network with both business owners, property management companies and building owners to provide services, especially emergency services pertaining to fire, water, mold and restoration services. As a preferred vendor to many property management customers we are quick to respond. We would be happy to meet with you and talk about our emergency readiness plan. SERVPRO of SE PORTLAND 503-427-9535.

What kills Odor? Deodorization

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Don't hesitate call us today!

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and hard to reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

 SERVPRO of SE Salem can provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. We do not cover up lingering odors with fragrance: we seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Once found, SERVPRO's own proprietary line of professional cleaning products is used to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in the affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more.

Call SERVPRO of SE Salem if you have fire, water, mold or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

What kills Odor? Deodorization

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Don't hesitate call us today!

Even a small fire can cause odors for years to come if the affected areas are not properly cleaned and deodorized. Fire, smoke and soot damage in your home or business can create unpleasant and potentially permanent problems.

As various materials burn, the smoke produced travels throughout the structure, leaving odorous residues and deposits on surfaces and hard to reach places. Unless fast, professional action is taken, these residues and deposits can cause permanent damage to contents and may result in resurfacing odors.

 SERVPRO of SE Salem can provide specialized services that can rid your home or business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. We do not cover up lingering odors with fragrance: we seek out and remove the sources of the odor. Once found, SERVPRO's own proprietary line of professional cleaning products is used to treat and prevent the odor from returning. Any restorable item in the affected areas will also be professionally cleaned and deodorized, including furniture, draperies and upholstery, electronics, art, flooring, walls, ceilings, HVAC air ducts, and more.

Call SERVPRO of SE Salem if you have fire, water, mold or just a stubborn odor that refuses to go away, we'll help make it "Like it never even happened."

How to cleanup water damage after heavy rain

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Call us today for more information on how to prevent water damage in your home!

If you have water damage in your home after heavy Portland rains, it is important to get a restoration company like SERVPRO of SE Salem on site immediately. Our team is quick to respond and begin all emergency service processes.

Once on site our team will look at all the angles to make sure that all of the water is extracted, SERVPRO of SE Salem will begin placing air movers and dehumidifiers. This equipment will be strategically placed to get the home dry as soon as possible. SERVPRO has invested a lot of resources in understanding the true science of drying to make sure your home gets back to pre loss condition as soon as possible.

After the home is dry, any and all repairs can be completed. SERVPRO of SE Salem has the capabilities of helping you from start to finish. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us at anytime. We are always here to help.

Pyramid of Water Contamination

3/30/2022 (Permalink)

Call us today if you suspect water damage or mold in your home!

Water damage in your home in Portland that results from a heavy storm is contaminated water. Unlike damage done by a busted pipe or an overflowing bathtub, storm runoff is considered Category 3 water. To understand how this affects the remediation process to your home after flooding occurs, you first need to understand the difference between the three levels of contamination.

1. Category 1

A flood that results from Category 1 water is probably the easiest of the three categories for water restoration specialists to clean up. Once the water is removed and damaged materials are either dried off or torn out and replaced, the restoration process is basically done. This is because Category 1 water is considered clean water. It comes from pipes, supply lines or other sources that deliver water safe enough to drink to the different faucets in your home.

2. Category 2

If you have water damage from Category 2 water, a little more cleaning is necessary. This water often comes from household appliances. Washing machine or refrigerator leaks fall within this group. While minimal contact is probably not a problem, it is not recommended that you ingest Category 2 water. It is also a bad idea to throw it outside on your garden, as it may contain things such as soap or boron which can be harmful to plants.

3. Category 3

If your sewer backs up into your home or your toilet overflows, you likely have Category 3 damage. Storm water also falls under this category. Black water is typically teeming with bacteria. This makes it necessary to add disinfecting any surface with which it comes into contact to the cleanup task list.
Before the cleanup process begins, it helps to know where the floodwater causing the water damage came from. This information will tell you a lot about which category of contamination you're dealing with.

Storms Can Happen at Anytime

9/7/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe and if you live in a fire danger zone be ready to leave at any moment.

We are typically not thinking of Storms, during this Summer months. As here in Oregon many associate storms with rain, snow and ice. However, that is a misconception, with lack of normal rain fall we have been having we have new type of Storm, in which we should be aware of. We call this a “fire storm”. Oregon is dense in heavily populated forest in which people love to camp and have campfires. We also have periodic lightning strikes that creates fires. Natural disasters can occur at anytime and fire is one of the many outcomes. Here at SERVPRO we are ready and able to respond to any major storm event, including fires. If a fire storm causes damage to your property, we here at SERVPRO are here to help! 503-427-9535

Yes, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem Cleans Offices!

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

What a spotless building, don't you want yours to look this clean?

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

The SERVPRO carpet and upholstery cleaning service will not only get out the dirt you see, but will also remove the unwanted dust you don’t. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening up a room and freshening up your home.

Air Duct Cleaning

We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.

Odor Removal

Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.

Sewage and Biohazard Clean Up

Our experts are ready to assist in the clean up of sewage and other biohazard materials and provide deep cleaning services for your home. Find out more about our franchise professionals.

Call our office today to find out what we can do for you! 

Common Floor Finishing Problems and Causes..

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

If doing yourself take your time, it is defiantly worth the wait!

Common floor finish problems and their causes.

These problems can be the result of using unsuitable or dirty tools and equipment, improper application techniques, contamination of water or finish, or surrounding environmental factors. Understanding what could or has caused floor finish issues and correcting the problem(s) (hopefully before they happen) will help save time and money.

Here are some common floor finish problems and their possible causes:

Finish is discolored under the floor mats

• Floor mats were placed back on floor before finish had proper time to cure.  Not allowing the chemicals to evaporate correctly will cause the finish to dry improperly.
•  There was a chemical reaction between the floor finish and the rubber backing on the floor mats.

Swirl marks

• Your burnishing pad may be too aggressive for the floor finish.

•  You're moving the burnisher too slowly or not using a high RPM machine.

•  Poor contact between the pad and the floor.
•  Dirty or wet floor pad was used.

Streaks in the floor finish

• Floor was not properly prepared before finish was applied.

•  Floor finish didn't thoroughly dry before applying additional coat.

•  Too thin or heavy of coat applied.

•  Application mop, bucket/wringer, water was dirty or contaminated.

•  Floor was too cold when finish was applied.
•  Floor finish contaminated or was improperly stored. Floor finish that has been exposed to extreme cold or hot temperatures should not be used and will need to be replaced.

Powdering

• Finish coats applied too thin.

•  Fans pointed directly at wet floor finish.

•  Poor adhesion of the floor finish.

•  Contaminated mop head or finish.
•  Floor not rinsed properly after stripping.

SERVPRO and Plumbers United!

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Call a plumber or SERVPRO right away if you see this!

Something that customers, insurance adjusters and property owners should know and be aware of. When a water loss happens pertaining to a busted pipe, most people call their plumbers first. A plumber will show up on scene and determine the cause of loss. If there is standing water or sewage, they seek our services here at SERVPRO. This is a working relationship with the plumber and SERVPRO to mitigate the water or sewage issue and then immediately have the plumber back in to fix the origination of the loss. If this course of action is not taken, we will be requested again to provide mitigate services and causing additional cost that do not need to be if set up correctly. We here at SERVPRO aim to help in assisting with this process and alleviating additional steps in the recovery efforts of a water loss. Call the Pros (503) 883-8960.

Dripping Faucet Causes More Damage Than You Think

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

Look for the warning signs

Ring Ring… Ring Ring… Ring Ri… Snooze.

If you are in the majority of America, 57% to be exact, you push the snooze button on your alarm at least once every morning. If that five to fifteen minutes is going to benefit or hurt your morning, depends on your situation.

Drip Drop… Drip Drop… Drip Drop…

Unfortunately, there isn't a button to stop the flow of water or prevent further water damage. After the water damage has happened every minute that you snooze yourself away from taking action can be more and more harm to your property. Within minutes of the water leak, piping malfunction, or one of the other numerous ways water damage can occur, the water quickly spreads throughout your property. Absorbing into walls, floors, and other easily susceptible areas of your home. Your personal belongings such as photos, important documents, family heirlooms, and electronic devices can be completely destroyed within that first fifteen minutes.

Spring Spring… Into Into… Action Action…

Locating your water shutoff valves can be a hassle when you only have a few minutes left on the clock to prevent further damage. Don’t catch yourself snoozing – it is important to know the location of all your major water shut off valves so that you can quickly spring into action and minimize the damage to your home and belongings. While 15 minutes of extra sleep goes by in a flash in the morning; that 15 minutes is all the leaky pipe needs to destroy memories while taking cash out of your pocket. Call us at SERVPRO of Southeast Salem and we will drop what we are doing to spring into action for you.

With Summer Coming to an End Here are Rainstorm Precautions

8/31/2021 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in you home or office please call our office!

When a flood is happening you can take the following measures:
- Disconnect all electrical and gas appliances. Shut off the water main to keep contaminated water from the water heater (a source of emergency water).
- Bring any valuable or sentimental outdoor possessions inside.
- Move valuables and essential items to upper floors of building.
- Sandbags should be stacked well away from the building to avoid damaging walls. If major flooding is expected, flood the basement with clean water to equalize the water pressure on the outside of the basement walls and floors. This is to help prevent structural damage.
- Round up pets.

The extent of the flooding will impact the amount of work required to get your home back to its former glory. Minimal flooding may require only the time it takes to remove the water and dry everything out. More extensive flooding can leave you needing a complete remodel. Be prepared for the potential construction site left in your home after a flood.

Post Water Damage Tips

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Don't hesitate to call us with any questions or concerns you may have about water damage.

Whether a flood is caused by ground water, falling water, or home water system malfunction, there are some best practices you’ll need to employ within the first 24 hours after the flood to ensure the safety of your home and family and give you the best outcome possible with your insurance company.

If the flood was serious enough for you to leave your home, be sure you stay safe upon your return. The Federal Emergency Management Agency warns that you should check for any visible structural damage, such as warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, cracks, and holes before entering the home and contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, and sewer lines.  

Even if the power isn’t operational, it’s a good idea to go to your fuse box and turn off the main, plus all of the individual fuse connections. That way, if the power is reactivated, you’re not at risk for mixing standing water and electricity.

Protect Your Health

Even if the water in your home is clear, it could be contaminated by sewage or household chemicals. Wear waders, hip- or waist-high waterproof boots. In addition, wear rubber gloves to remove water-damaged possessions and to avoid contaminants. Be sure to throw out any food that may have come into contact with flood waters. FEMA recommends boiling water until authorities declare the water supply is safe.

Flood Damage is Number One Natural Disaster

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded business or home is never a good thing!

Floods are the number 1 natural disaster in the United States. Flooding causes damage and destruction across regions nationwide, wiping out homes and businesses. However, many residents and business owners are unaware that they qualify for flood insurance. You can take steps to reduce the financial impact of flooding before a disaster strikes. One important step is understanding your risk. Even a heavy rainstorm can cause significant flooding, contributing to flash floods, mudflows, or overtopping levees and dams.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their directions. Not all flooding is covered by a basic homeowners policy, so work with your agent to discover the cause and identify coverage you can qualify for. Do not remove any water before talking to them so you don’t accidentally do anything that will decrease the amount of coverage you’ll be able to claim. If the insurance company wants you to wait for an adjuster before making repairs, do so — but make sure you give them a clear picture of the damage and repairs that are immediately needed.

Categories of Water Damage

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you see any water in your home call of office for an inspection. (503) 883-8960

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. There are several different categories assigned to water damage. Category 1 refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows. Category 2 water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage. Category 3 water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options. Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

SERVPRO's Best Tip for Water Damage Control

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Call an electrician or the fire department if it's un-safe to turn the water off to your home or business.

Stop The Flow.

Your first priority is stopping the flow of water. If you’ve identified the appliance that’s leaking, shut off water to that appliance. If you’re not sure where the leak is coming from, shut off water to the whole house. Next, turn off electricity at the fuse box. If you can’t reach the box without wading into water, call an electrician and stay out of the wet areas.

Before removing any water, document the damage for your insurance company. Capture the extent of the water damage and all possessions impacted by the flood. Digital photos are best because you can quickly upload them directly to your agent for assessment.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their directions. Not all flooding is covered by a basic homeowners policy, so work with your agent to discover the cause and identify coverage you can qualify for. Do not remove any water before talking to them so you don’t accidentally do anything that will decrease the amount of coverage you’ll be able to claim. If the insurance company wants you to wait for an adjuster before making repairs, do so — but make sure you give them a clear picture of the damage and repairs that are immediately needed.

Water Damage Can Cause Black Mold

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

We can help! If you smell or see any black/browning in your home call us right away.

There are several reasons that harmful and toxic black mold can spread through your home. One of the most common factors that leads to this mold is improperly treated water damage. There are two separate types of water damage that can cause mold spores to spread inside your home. The first and most common is a slow, unnoticed leak. The second would be a large and sudden loss.

Slow, Unnoticed Leak: This damage is common when there is a leaky pipe that hidden underneath a sink, inside of the walls, near a windowsill, or under the floor. The affected areas are now filled with moisture and become a breading ground for black mold to grow and spread.

Large, Sudden Loss: When a homeowner has a large leak, or a pipe burst that leaves standing water there are two routes normally taken. A DIYer will typically try to remove all the water themselves and then dry out the affected area with retail fans and opening a few windows. This is not recommended and can lead to more problems. If you are not properly trained to fight water damage it can be difficult if not next to impossible to locate all the moisture without the proper equipment. If any of the damaged area is left untreated it becomes a harbor for black mold. The second and recommended route is to call a water mitigation company that can properly identify all the affected areas and can get to work quickly.

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem’s technicians are highly trained to identify and target water damage at the source. The best preventative measure to identify a slow, unnoticed leak would be to monitor your water usage bill. If you see an unexpected and noticeable spike in the amount of water being used it could be the sign of a leak. Calling a plumber to identify any potential problems is best. After a large, sudden loss, it is best to give a water damage restoration business a call so that your problem can be handled by professionals. As the best water damage restoration business out there, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Hurricane Warning

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Remembering Katrina nearly 15 years later...

When Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast on August 29, 2005, winds of speeds up to 140 mph toppled trees and turned sand and debris into airborne sandpaper, stripping any trees or shrubs left standing of their leaves or limbs.

Katrina’s damage extended as far north as Memphis, Tenn. A 2007 study published in Science used NASA satellite images to estimate 320 million trees dead or damaged in Mississippi and Louisiana alone from Hurricane Katrina. In combination with Hurricane Rita later that year, Hurricane Katrina was called “the largest single forestry disaster on record in the nation” by The Washington Post.

Damage inflicted by hurricanes depends on a variety of factors, including location, how the forest was managed and the age and height of a stand. While a loblolly pine plantation with trees 10 to 15 feet high may not sustain much damage, an older stand with 50-foot-tall trees of the same species would sustain more damage, according to Stanturf. In addition, because trees tend to support and protect other trees, there’s often more damage along openings in a forest, such as along roads or powerline swaths.

Beyond the wind damage, the storm surge that accompanied Hurricane Katrina damaged forests from the ground level. Sea waters surged more than three miles inland in some regions and more than 30 feet along much of the Mississippi coastline, causing the widespread damage inflicted by coastal flooding.

Forest recovery after a hurricane or other event depends on a particular forest’s management objective. Some hurricane-ravaged forests may be left to regenerate on their own, taking decades to a century to fully recover and reestablish. In some cases, cleanup is necessary to protect the forest from further destruction, as tree debris can become a breeding ground for insects and fungi. Other responses include salvage logging to recover the timber value that’s been lost and to reduce fire hazards, explains Stanturf. Seven years after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, both replanted and surviving stands are recovering.

Ways to Prevent a House Fire

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Protect yourself and your home!

Prevent Home Fires

Home fires are preventable! The following are simple steps that each of us can take to prevent a tragedy.

Cooking

• Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• Wear short, close-fitting or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking.
• Keep children away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of 3 feet around the stove.
• Position barbecue grills at least 10 feet away from siding and deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Smoking

• Smoke outside and completely stub out butts in an ashtray or a can filled with sand.
• Soak cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away. Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
• Never smoke in a home where oxygen is used, even if it is turned off. Oxygen can be explosive and makes fire burn hotter and faster.
• Be alert - don’t smoke in bed! If you are sleepy, have been drinking, or have taken medicine that makes you drowsy, put your cigarette out first.

Electrical and Appliance Safety

• Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

Portable Space Heaters

• Keep combustible objects at least three feet away from portable heating devices.
• Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• Check to make the portable heater has a thermostat control mechanism, and will switch off automatically if the heater falls over.
• Only use crystal clear K-1 kerosene in kerosene heaters. Never overfill it. Use the heater in a well-ventilated room.

Fireplaces and Woodstoves

• Inspect and clean woodstove pipes and chimneys annually and check monthly for damage or obstructions.
• Use a fireplace screen heavy enough to stop rolling logs and big enough to cover the entire opening of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the house or going to bed.

Children

• Take the mystery out of fire play by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.
• Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time.

More Prevention Tips

• Never use stove range or oven to heat your home.
• Keep combustible and flammable liquids away from heat sources.
• Portable generators should NEVER be used indoors and should only be refueled outdoors or in well ventilated areas.

What to do After a Fire

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Remember to call the fire department, then call us to make it "Like it never even happened."

After a Fire

The following checklist serves as a quick reference and guide for you to follow after a fire strikes.

• Contact your local disaster relief service. if you need temporary housing, food and medicines.
• If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory and contacting fire damage restoration companies.  If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance.
• Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by the fire.
• The fire department should see that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site.  DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
• Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items.  Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made.
• Try to locate valuable documents and records.  Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure.
• Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss.  The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax.
• Notify your mortgage company of the fire.

Give SERVPRO of Southeast Salem a call to assist with any fire damage restoration needs.

Why Immediate Fire Damage Restoration is so Important

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call us with any questions!

When a fire occurs in a home, the aftermath can seem overwhelming, and if fire restoration is postponed, the destruction from smoke damage can become even worse. The longer you wait to address the damage, the more repairs you'll have to fix - which means you'll most likely have a larger bill for damages when all is said and done. You can avoid costly repairs and long-term issues if you make fire damage restoration a priority and follow the steps you'll need to get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

Contact a Fire Damage Restoration Service

First, and foremost - and this is the most important step - find a fire restoration contractor who can assess the damage, give you an estimate on costs and start the cleanup process. Contact your home insurance company to make them aware of the fire and ask them for referrals for reliable businesses in your area. It's essential that you enlist the help of a licensed and insured fire damage restoration company to reduce the risk of further damage to your home. They are trained to handle this type of damage and many will perform some of the following steps to help get you through the initial fire cleanup:

• Smoke and fire damage restoration services will try to save as many of your home and personal belongings (such as appliances, furniture and clothing) as they can.
• Document everything they remove from your home by taking pictures and/or keeping written records.
• Return any salvageable furniture and appliances back to your home, after the fire restoration is complete.
• Work quickly and carefully to get you back in your home as soon as possible, and stay in contact with you to make sure the repairs were done correctly and your home isn't experiencing any other problems.

Be sure to go through your home insurance company when hiring a fire damage restoration service, or do a thorough background check if you choose one on your own to make sure they are licensed and insured. Be wary of “fire chasing” contractors who target victims of house fires and pressure them into signing expensive repair contracts, perform extremely low-quality repair work and might not be licensed or insured.

Start Fire Cleanup Right Away

While it's best to have a qualified fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Southeast Salem handle the smoke damage restoration, there are some small tasks you can do to help minimize the initial damage before the professionals come in to do the major cleanup. Remember that safety comes first, so if there’s no way to safely gain access into your home, then stay out until the professionals arrive. If it is possible to enter your house, make sure you’re wearing work gloves, long sleeves/pants, and proper respiratory protection, such as a mask because exposure to soot can cause respiratory problems and other medical issues.

• VENTILATION - Open all the windows and air out the house as much (and as often) as possible. Use box fans to force out dust and contaminated air. Fire damage restoration professionals will use industrial-strength fans and other air-moving equipment to help reduce the smoke damage your home has been subjected to, but in the meantime, proper ventilation is key to helping remove a lot of the polluted (and unsafe) air.
• CLEANING - Scrub all surfaces (and inside cabinets and drawers) with soap and water. You can also use an alkaline cleaner, which neutralizes the acid that’s found in soot to help cut down on the smoky smell. Counteractants—chemicals used to break up smoke molecules to eliminate odors—may be used, but it’s best left to the professionals to handle such products.
• LAUNDRY - Wash all bedding, clothing, curtains and items that can be machine washed with an alkaline cleaner (you may have to wash items more than once). Delicate fabrics will need to be professionally dry cleaned by someone who is familiar with articles that have smoke damage. Only use washers and dryers that haven’t been exposed to smoke or experienced significant fire damage.

Professional smoke removal and restoration companies will perform a thorough cleanup using industrial-grade products and equipment, such as dry cleaning soot sponges to remove loose soot and specialized vacuum filters to clean carpet and upholstery.

Prolonged Smoke Damage

Fire damage is tricky because some signs are apparent—such as discoloration on walls and ceilings and dark stains from smoke on surfaces—but others are not, such as odors trapped in hidden places. Air conditioner vents, the space behind walls and the outside walls of your home are all areas where ash and soot can be deposited and continue to cause damage if they aren't taken care of in a timely manner.

Make sure to have the HVAC system, attic/roof, and exterior walls inspected and properly cleaned, too, because your home will continue to suffer from smoke damage until the soot is completely removed by a fire damage restoration service, like SERVPRO of Southeast Salem. Don't hesitate to call us to handle your fire or smoke damage!

The Reason Fire Damage Jobs Are Best Left to Professionals

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

We are here for our community anytime, any day!

A simple day turned into a horrible tragedy for a local family here in Southeast Portland when they experienced a grease fire that tore through half of their home. It caused extensive damage. In their time of need SERVPRO of Southeast Salem was there and ready to help. The family called us in and requested services immediately. Our team made the process as easy and simple for the family reassuring them along the way letting them know exactly what was needed and that SERVPRO of Southeast Salem would be there to help every step of the way. The before picture shows just a glimpse of the damage caused. When all the work was done the family couldn't have been more happier with SERVPRO of Southeast Salem and how their home was not only restored but improved making it "Like it never even happened." 

Second Opinion

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Even if you are on the other side of town, we are always here to help and serve.

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem got an interesting  call one day. A client in SE PDX called in about a home going on the market. Turns out upon checking into the homes history the client discovered the home had experienced a fire 10 years prior that was unknown to them. Doing a little more investigation the client found out that the home had fire/smoke remediation done for the fire that occurred. For reasons unknown to the client as well as ourselves the attic of said home had no remediation work done to it. For this specific case we went in did our initial inspection and discussed with the client potential work the can and should be done. With SERVPRO of Southeast Salem as a client you can always be reassured that there will be no stone left unturned when you call us do your job. Customer and client satisfaction is our number one priority. 

SERVPRO Can Make Smoke Damage "Like it never even happened."

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Don't hesitate to call us with anything you may need! We are ready to help whenever you are ready.

After the brave firefighters have performed their job the aftermath left behind can be daunting.  That’s where SERVPRO of Southeast Salem takes pride in our ability to help those who have just endured a fire.  When the reality sets in of all the damage that the fire has caused it may be hard to conceive that the building will never return to normal. Our trained technicians work hard to do just that, make your home or commercial building return to normal. 

The danger of the fire may be gone, but damage can continue to affect the structure and belongings. Ash and smoke, if left alone will likely cause extensive corrosion, etching, discoloration as well as lingering powerful odors. Our trained professionals that clean fire and smoke damage can stop this before it becomes a major problem.

The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can begin the fire restoration process.  Our caring staff will work diligently to restore the damage to your building and belongings that were affected by the unfortunate fire.  Our company goal is to make this traumatic event "Like it never even happened."

Haven't you Heard.. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem Offers Cleaning Services

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call us today for an estimate!

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

The SERVPRO carpet and upholstery cleaning service will not only get out the dirt you see, but will also remove the unwanted dust you don’t. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening up a room and freshening up your home.

Air Duct Cleaning

We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.

Odor Removal

Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.

Sewage and Biohazard Clean Up

Our experts are ready to assist in the clean up of sewage and other biohazard materials and provide deep cleaning services for your home. Find out more about our franchise professionals.

Call our office today to find out what we can do for you! 

Importance of Dusting

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Remember dusting keeps that bad things away! Call us with any questions or cleaning services.

What is dust?

It is extremely small substances (many pieces are not visible to the naked eye) that become airborne, travel, and then settle back down to earth, landing on our desks, tables, chairs, window sills, blinds, pretty much any surface you can think of can hold dust. Sand and soil are the most common dust particles but pollen, soot, hair, spoors, mites, fabric fibers, plant material, micro-sized decaying insects, and even dead skin contribute to the make-up of that nasty stuff called dust.

Why is dusting an office building so important?

Dusting is an essential task your employees need to do in every office building.  Visible dust creates an unsightly work space, which people may translate into an image of neglect. In addition to being unappealing, dusty offices can contribute to “sick office syndrome.” A well dusted office building translates a positive and pleasing image to all building visitors and occupants. A clean working environment also encourages neatness, promotes better work habits and can reduce absenteeism.

Dusting is also essential because it improves environmental safety.  Accumulated dust can cause health effects, and plays havoc with individuals who have allergies. If dust is left to accumulate, it can soil hands, clothing and paper items and also cause damage to electronic equipment. Airborne dust and contaminants can even spread infection. Proper dusting is an important part of effective sanitation practices.

If proper dusting is not done on a regular basis, dust builds up, hardens and becomes thick in corners and hard to reach areas.  Dust can stain furniture and cause an unsightly film on glass and hard surfaces. If dust is left long enough on hard surfaces, it can eventually cause permanent discoloration. Accumulation of dust can also interfere with the proper operation of a building's heating and cooling systems.

To correctly dust office buildings, you should have the following equipment and supplies on hand:  microfiber cloths (damp cloth for removing fingerprints and coffee rings, and dry for standard dusting), static dusters, extension dusters (for the hard to reach areas), cotton cloths, furniture polish, all-purpose cleaner, and window cleaner. Back pack vacuums with brush attachments or crevice tools should also be used for getting into hard to reach areas. And of course, personal protection equipment (gloves, glasses, dust mask, etc.)

How often should you dust? Dusting should be done at least weekly, especially on horizontal surfaces. Sides of desks, file cabinets and other vertical surfaces should be dusted once every two to four weeks or as needed. A good general rule to follow is if the surface is above eye level or below knee level; dust it every two to four weeks. Surfaces that are between eye level and knee level should be dusted on a weekly basis.

Who Doesn't Enjoy Hardwood Flooring

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of SE Salem for more tips.

Nothing adds charm more to a commercial building than a lustrous looking hardwood floor. A hardwood floor is a lifetime investment and keeping a hardwood floor looking its best requires proper care and maintenance strategies. As the cleaning professional, it is up to you and your cleaning technicians to provide the solutions to care for and maintain your customers' hardwood floor investment and keep it looking its best for years to come.

Routine maintenance and care of hardwood floors requires:

1. Protecting the surface finish from heavy wear
2. Daily cleaning to remove dirt, grit and dust
3. Protecting the finish from moisture

When taking care of wood floors avoid the following:

• Using saturated mops on the floor
• Using ammonia on the floor
• Using household type dust cleaners
• Using products that are not recommended for wood floors

Don't let hardwood floors lose their luster. Spending a little time every day protecting and properly caring for hardwood floors will go a long ways towards keeping the floor looking great and keeping your customer happy.

Carpet Maintenance

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

Wanna know a secret? We here at SERVPRO know how to clean some carpet. Call us today for prices!

Carpet has many merits and advantages as a flooring material, but spills can leave stains and daily traffic takes its toll. Learn how to clean carpet with methods for vacuuming, deep cleaning, and stain removal to help your carpets look better and last longer.

Carpets warm a home by adding color, pattern, and texture. Regular vacuuming provides the first line of defense against dirt and grit that damages carpet fibers. But carpets also need regular cleaning to keep them looking their best. Plan to thoroughly wash carpet every 12 to 18 months, more often in high-traffic areas. If you have light-color carpet and/or kids or pets, clean your carpets two or three times a year. Always follow the carpet manufacturer's cleaning guidelines.

Smoke Detectors Save Lives!

8/1/2021 (Permalink)

Always keep in mind to regularly check the smoke detectors in your home.

Smoke detectors save lives and provide you and your family time to leave the home and get to safety or alert you to potential fires in the home like a cooking fire or an unattended candle. In the event of a home fire, soot and smoke damage can cause damage throughout your home and require repairs and restoration. 

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem has the technicians, expertise, and experience to clean and restore your home. After a fire, our crew's inventory and pack out the contents in your home. Contents are then brought back to our secure, climate-controlled warehouse where items are recleaned and packed into new clean boxes. While contents are being cleaned, crews work to clean and restore your home. Once your home has been restored, all contents are packed back and your home is ready to be put back together as it was before the fire. 

Storms in Oregon

8/1/2021 (Permalink)

Stay safe and enjoy summer!

We are typically not thinking of Storms, during this Summer months. As here in Oregon many associate storms with rain, snow and ice. However, that is a misconception, with lack of normal rain fall we have been having we have new type of Storm, in which we should be aware of. We call this a “fire storm”. Oregon is dense in heavily populated forest in which people love to camp and have campfires. We also have periodic lightning strikes that creates fires. Natural disasters can occur at anytime and fire is one of the many outcomes. Here at SERVPRO we are ready and able to respond to any major storm event, including fires. If a fire storm causes damage to your property, we here at SERVPRO are here to help! 503-427-9535

Our Customers Always Come First!

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Thank you for trusting SERVPRO of Southeast Salem with your home and business.

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been dedicated to keeping our customers happy.  SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is proud to be able to carry on this tradition.  Our mission is to leave each job, large or small with our customers being 100% satisfied.

SERVPRO is invested in the local community and making sure our neighbors are taking care of quickly and efficiently and in constant contact every step of the way.  Using a customer centric approach in every customer interaction is how we ensure satisfaction.  We know there is not a one size fits all answer for any situation.  For this reason we help to find an individualized solution that meets the needs of your unique circumstances.   

We are proud to be a service you know and trust. 

Our Knowledge and Experience is Key!

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you would like to know what we do, don't hesitate to call.

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC, (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), industry certifications, and continuing education classes. This self-paced program includes; Crew Training, Fire Restoration, Water Restoration and Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination.

When it comes to voluntary training the SERVPRO program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a franchise's employees. E-learnings, such as video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect ensures each of our locations is trained through this 15-day hands-on course which is the foundation of the SERVPRO success. Rest assured, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. 

Lastly, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals and franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation

Honesty and Integrity

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Always here to help!

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes to your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize this interruption so you can get back to living your life.

At SERVPRO of Southeast Salem, we are dedicated to restoring your property to "Like it never even happened." As a locally owned and operated company, providing our friends and neighbors with the best possible customer service is our business.

We are proud to serve our local communities; Portland, Mt. Scott, Lents, Hawthorne, Woodstock, Sellwood, Westmoreland, Eastmoreland, Brentwood-Darlington and Brooklyn.

In addition, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process for you.

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

No mater the time or day of the week, SERVPRO is always here to help!

Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. Here's a look at the 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.

Proud Member of Our Community

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO are so happy to be involved with our community!

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem takes great pride in being a part of the Southeast and Northeast Salem community. We understand that communities like ours hold America together. Recently participating in the Hope Gala for the local Catholic Charities was a great way to be involved in our community.  We want to do our part to ensure the Southeast and Northeast Salem community thrives by helping those less fortunate, keeping the area safe and making our community the best it can be.

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is close by and ready to respond to your cleaning or restoration needs. We are proud to be an active member of the Salem, OR community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

Highest Quality Products

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

If you want more information on what products we use please visit our website or call us today! Happy to answer any questions.

Rapid advancements in the technology and techniques allow SERVPRO of Southeast Salem Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably and more effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.

• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 

• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

• High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace

• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

• Air scrubbers

• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments

• Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.

• Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

How do your ducts looks?

5/31/2021 (Permalink)

This is an example of how dirty ducts can be without proper care.

Duct cleaning can help!

The ventilation system is often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality, but you can help change that! Inspecting the ductwork in your facility should be a high priority. In most cases, dirty ducts can circulate odors, contaminants such as mold, and irritating dust throughout your building or home. 

SERVPRO of Southeast / Northeast Salem has a service which includes inspecting the HVAC and ductwork. Keeping the HVAC and ductwork clean can potentially extend the lifespan of the equipment by allowing it to operate at peak condition, which may help you save money. Duct cleaning may not always be necessary. SERVPRO will inspect your ductwork and make recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns. This inspection can help you save money and provide peace of mind on the health of your HVAC system and ductwork.

For more information on commercial duct cleaning, contact SERVPRO of Southeast Southeast / Northeast Salem today! We are available any day, any time. 

A Five-Star Experience Every Time!

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is always here to take the stress off your shoulders and put a smile on your face.

Why SERVPRO of SE Salem 

Besides a natural disaster or a fire, floods can be one of the worst things that can happen to your business. It affects your employee’s productivity – fans are loud, and dehumidifiers are hot making it hard to work in conditions like that. In turn, that means that you could be losing revenue for the time that your business is closed. We know how frustrating that can be: We’ve been there before!

That’s why we work as hard as possible here at SERVPRO of SE Salem, and with equipment that’s been specially designed to make sure that the drying process is quick and easy on you and your employees so everyone can get back to work in a timely manner.

If you have experienced a water loss at your commercial space, give us a call today at 503-427-9535.

Why SERVPRO? We are the industry leaders!

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Here is what our drying equipment looks like.

The past few decades has seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of SE Salem Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

• Air scrubbers
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

• Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
• Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

SERVPRO of SE Salem has taken every step to make sure we offer the cutting edge technology to supply you with the very best options available. We also have the best trained techs in the business! Choose SERVPRO of SE Portland for the most professional well trained techs in the business! 

Oregon Helping out!

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Storms in California!

Fire storm season has hit early, having governors exercising their emergency disaster orders.  Here in Oregon, the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal has deployed five task forces to assist in California. Currently the Marion County Task Force which consists of Marion County Fire District, Mt. Angel Fire District, Woodburn Fire District, Keizer Fire Department, Silverton and Woodburn Fire District, have taken off and are currently helping in assisting tackling the LNU Lightning Complex Fire. This fire storm started by a series of lightning. As we watch and see our local firefighters help our neighboring state, we here at SERVPRO too, await the call from our neighboring state. As a fire restoration company, we are here to help! Every summer about this time of year we get a call from our fellow peers, asking for help and we rise to the occasion.  We gather our crews and heed the call!  Our neighbors can count on us here at SERVPRO!

Storm and Large Loss Water Response is A Team Effort!

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Storms Brewing of the Ocean!

Here at SERVPRO we have “Storm Teams” set and ready to Mobilize when called upon. Storms, Large Losses and catastrophic losses such as fire, water, tornado, hurricanes, flooding, mid slides and earthquakes; require immediate attention. Our appropriate response goals are to reduce business interruption, reduce claim cost and minimize call backs. We do this by prioritizing, a written plan with daily goals, a tremendous amount of activity and working fast! We often work with other restoration companies, as a team, to have availability to double our response and efficiency in all types of storm exposures. Our Storm Teams have been trained and work throughout the year to be prepared. As being one of the leaders in large loss nationwide, we take great pride in being able to work side by side with our fellow franchise owners. When a major catastrophe strikes, call your trust SERVPRO for immediate response!

Contaminated Water Repsonse

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Microbe Growth Thrives Between 68 and 86 Degrees!

We follow the IICRC S500 Principles of Water Damage Restoration.  The Standard for water damage restoration is designed to:

-Provide for the safety and health of workers and occupants

-Document and inspect further damage

-Mitigate further damage

-Clean and dry affected areas

-Complete the restoration and repairs.

As a water response company, it is extremely important to know the type of water we are dealing with. Immediate response is taken to prevent the growth of microbes. Microbes found in water damages are fungi, bacteria and viruses. Excessive water and humidity can result in microbores multiplying. Microbes become airborne and spread to clean areas, causing cross contamination. To prevent mold growth, keep indoor relative humidity to below 60%. Receive fast, quality service by calling the professionals at SERVPRO, who will help prevent further issues!

Thinking of Buying Commercial Property?

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Apartment Fires Can be a Huge Liability!

Commercial properties can be such a wonderful investment. Many people are eager to get into the real estate industry in hopes for large gain. This can be a very rewarding industry; however, investors need to consider the overhead and liabilities that can arise. This past week we called to a large loss on a commercial building in downtown Portland. This was a stove fire on sixth floor. The tenant had fallen asleep while leaving the stove on. Luckily, the fire alarms went off and a neighbor had a fire extinguisher. This neighbor saved not only save the tenant but also the property owner massive possible cost in damages.

Canvasing the whole sixth floor is chemical from the fire extinguisher and soot from the smoke.  We here at SERVPRO were called in to start the remediation process.  Having a professional on hand is a great way to make sure your investment is protected in an emergency. SERVPRO providing 24/7 Services!

Fires Raging Across Oregon

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Amazing Air Support on Wild Fire

Here in Oregon we do not think of wildfires being a “Storm” like they are in our neighboring state. However, this past month lightning strikes have proved us wrong.

Here’s a look at some of the state’s most significant fires:

A pair of lightning-caused fires, the P-515 and Lionshead blazes, are covering a cumulative 6,448 acres near Warm Springs. The former blaze is 30% contained. The latter is at 5%.

The lightning-caused Green Bridge Fire is burning about 12 miles northwest of Sisters. The blaze covers 4,348 acres and has prompted Level 1 and 2 The fire is 13% contained.

The Frog Fire, caused by lightning eight miles south of the Crook County community of Post, covers about 4,000 acres and is 40% contained.

Indian Creek is the largest fire currently burning in between Burns & Ontario. It has burned 47,657 acres and is 28% contained. 

As fires rage across the state, know that SERVPRO is always here to help! As a leading fire restoration provider, we take great pride in our work!

Course of Action When a Water Loss Has Occured!

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Water Drying Process

Today we talk about Water and our Course of Action. Here at SERVPRO we first show up on sight and access the level of damage and type of water loss. We must determine the type of water loss if it is contaminated water or not so that we can take proper course of action. If it is not a contaminated water loss, we determine the levels of water in the material using a moisture sensor tool and a thermal imaging camera. Next, Dehumidifiers will be set up. A dehumidifier is a machine set up to pull the moisture out of the area effected. This machine has a tube that drains the excess water that has been pulled from the effected area. We set up the machines and return daily to monitor moisture readings, until the readings return to a dry number. Itis imperative to contact SERVPRO after a water loss to determine the proper course action. This could prevent second issues. Call us 503-883-8960

Plumbers & SERVPRO Working Together for the Customer

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Busted Pipes Need Immediate Attention

Something that customers, insurance adjusters and property owners should know and be aware of. When a water loss happens pertaining to a busted pipe, most people call their plumbers first. A plumber will show up on scene and determine the cause of loss. If there is standing water or sewage, they seek our services here at SERVPRO. This is a working relationship with the plumber and SERVPRO to mitigate the water or sewage issue and then immediately have the plumber back in to fix the origination of the loss. If this course of action is not taken, we will be requested again to provide mitigate services and causing additional cost that do not need to be if set up correctly. We here at SERVPRO aim to help in assisting with this process and alleviating additional steps in the recovery efforts of a water loss. Call the Pros 503-883-8960

Firestorm and Damage

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Wind from a Fire Storm Can Cause Massive Damage

We here at SERVPRO anticipate the winds of summer and the sudden strike of a naturally caused or human inflicted fire storm. A firestorm is characterized by strong to gale-force winds blowing toward the fire, everywhere around the fire perimeter. These winds from the perimeter blow the fire brands into the burning area and tend to cool the unignited fuel outside the fire area so that ignition of material outside the periphery by radiated heat and fire embers is more difficult. What this means? If you have a property within the area of a firestorm, damage is inevitable. Here at SERVPRO we can protect the property and restore it to its original conditions.  Weather is it a complete total loss and needs demo or simply smoke soot damage, we are here to help!

Stroms in Oregon and the Damage!

8/7/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage and Storms Can Cause Trees to Topple

When you live in Oregon you think of heavy rain. Oregon’s annual rain fall totals range between 66-88 inches. Rain in Oregon can lead to an array of issues. Heavy down pours fill rivers and sewage pipes rapidly. This allows for flooding and clogged pipes. This also allows for massive saturation of land including yards. If continued water fall happens and winds pick up, trees can topple. We see here in Oregon many people fall victim to fallen tress causing damage to their homes. Here at SERVPRO we respond to this type of storm immediately and work with all of those involved to safely get the home secured and provide the additional steps on the reconstruction of the home. If you suffer from water damage, sewage issues or damage from a fallen tree call the us here at SERVPRO. 503-883-8960.

Damage from a Faulty Air Conditioner

8/6/2020 (Permalink)

Damage from a Faulty AC Unit

This past week we had a referral come in from a dear friend. His friend who is a single mother noticed that the air conditioning unit in the attic quit working. In a matter of days, she started noticing water stains on her roof and began to think, where is this water coming from? She then called her trusty friend, to ask for a painter and that is when he advised that painting was not the only thing she should be worried about. He advised that there needed to be a company to check how much water was in the wall and if there was any mold growing. Then she could worry about the paint. He then remembered us here at SERVPRO and said hey, give them a call and they will advise of the damage! The best compliment is a referral! We thank our continue clients for their kind words.

Looking to Invest in Commerial Property?

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Sky Rise Building Could Suffer Major Damages!

There comes a time in one’s life when they decide to buy a piece of property. When buying a commercial building, the owner must consider many things.  Commercial building owners take on a huge responsibility. When a person decides to buy a building, they carry the liability that goes along with it. Whether they use the business for themselves or they rent it out to another business entity, it is the building owners’ responsibility to maintain the building. Here at SERVPRO we network with both business owners, property management companies and building owners to provide services, especially emergency services pertaining to fire, water, mold and restoration services. As a preferred vendor to many property management customers we are quick to respond. We would be happy to meet with you and talk about our emergency readiness plan. SERVPRO 503-883-8960.

A Water & Odor Smell Beyond Normal!

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Caution, Biohazard, Beware!

We had a dual call come in this past week. A property management company called to ask us to route our guys out to a water and odor job. The tenant was reporting a very foul smell seeping up into the house. The bathroom and kitchen had water backing up into the sinks. With further investigation, we found beneath the house a foot of standing water. Discovery showed the hot water line had a slow leak and needed repair. The smell was horrendous. Standing water typically does not create that much of an obnoxious smell. We began water remediation services. After about 45 minutes, our crew discovered the smell. A cat had passed away and was the reason behind the smell. Biohazard is also an expertise of ours. So, we continued with remediation services and cleared the biohazard, creating immediate relief for the tenants. Next time you have a foul odor or standing water call us here at SERVPRO. 503-883-8960!

Cause and Effect Regarding Water

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

When Water Over Flows, Call the Pros!

Water has a way of creating damage no one would think of. We recently had a call for a dryer fire in a three-story condo. We responded to the fire and began to assess the damage.  The owner was in a state of shock and was focused on the dryer fire and the smoke that had inhibited the home!  After discussion he remembered that when the fire started, he ran to the bathroom and used the faucet for water. He started throwing water on the fire, running away and then calling the fire department. Not remembering that he had left on the faucet. Leaving the sink to overflow and for water to saturate down and into the floorboard, through the dry wall and thus affecting all three levels of the condo. So, what was a fire job with minimal damage turned out to be a large water loss. Always remember to turn off the water when trying to put out a fire, or it could lead to further disaster!

Small Fires Can Create Major Damage

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Dry brush and weeds can catch fire!

This week we received a referral from one of our insurance agents. One of his clients experienced a fire on the back side of their home. The son was burning weeds with his propane device, the weeds smothered and caught the siding underneath the house, igniting a small fire on the siding and thus seeping deep into the main the pillar of the home. The fire fighters had to use the ax while putting it out, alluding a cut into the interior wall. The sweet owner of the home was overtaken with smoke. She did not think the damage was that bad. However, by the time the fire was out her home was filled with smoke and soot and she had no idea what to do. We showed up, and immediately started remediation services. Also advising of the extent of damage, allowing her to know that we were there to help and get her back to where she was previously. Call SERVPRO for Fire Damage 503-883-8960

Someone’s Mom, Someone’s Grandma, our Client

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

2 -Alarm House Fire

Last weekend, a 2-alarm residential fire came through the wire. I set out to assist and be with the owners of their home, not knowing who or what I would endure.  The little lady who owned the home was not there when the fire started. She was around the corner at the 501 playing poker. As she arrived to see the street lined fire trucks, she began to cry. I approached her and said I was there to help. Even if the help at that moment was to sit and listen. Offer a hand to hold or a shoulder to cry on. Every memory she had was in that house., so I sat there with her and went through the waves of emotions, just listening, just being there. We watched for 4 hours the fight to get the fire under control, then them saw off the second floor to open it up and then watch them throw all her belongings out onto the grass. Heart breaking on many levels. Here at SERVPRO we go through the traumatic events of a fire with our clients.

Water Damage and Commercial Properties

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Property Damage Due to Water.

This week has been one that we call “Water” week. A two-story town house toilet over flowed and seeped through the dry wall and sheet rock from the second floor down to the first floor on a commercial property. An apartment dishwasher clogged. A pipe under the sink busted. When this happens with commercial properties, many do not know how to respond. If it is a commercial property, we must have authorization from the property management company to start remediation services. The tenant may or may not have coverage for their personal belongings. Commercial property insurance claims are a two-client process, including multiple people and contacts. It is important to have professionals at SERVPRO working with the agents, property managers and adjusters when it comes to commercial properties. Call us at 503-883-8960

Services our Commercial Realtors are liking!

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Preventative Cleaning Service

We just received a call from a realtor. Hey, can you guys come to our weekly companywide meeting and speak about services you are covering for COVID 19 and that cool camera you use for documenting homes? Well of course we can.  Here at SERVPRO we are offering two unique services for our commercial and residential realtors, to help them make sales. One of the services is a COVID 19 fogging services, we will go in and disinfect the property they are going to hold an open house and give them a decal and letter of certification of disinfectant.  Allowing possible buyers to know the house is clean and disinfected. We are also offering a 3-D Imaging service in which we come in and take pictures of the property, convert it into a virtual walk experience for their online presence. We are thinking outside of the box over here to assist our commercial and residential clients with our everyday services. Call SERVPRO for a meeting to learn more!

Preventative Cleaning for Commercial Properties and COVID 19

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Dressed to get the Job Done!

This week we have seen four requests for commercial building preventative cleaning services, specifically for COVID 19. During such a pandemic and the need to get people back to work, we understood the need of professionally cleaning services. This was notable topic to write about. We here at SERVPRO are proud of our community and find it compelling that these major corporations are taking the safety of their employees and clients to the next level.  As we see people returning to normal and business being able to open, we encourage people to have a deep cleaning and a preventative disinfectant cleaning. Here at SERVPRO we provide a decal for your window and a certification of clean certificate to ensure your people are aware you have taken extra precautionary caution to ensure their well fare. Call us for an estimate! 503-883-8960

Commerial Property Owners and Property Management Are taking the Heat!

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Damage Left Behind From Tenants

Commercial property owners see it all. Especially right now, many people are suffering and unable to handle what the world is going through. People are laid off work and unable to pay bills or provide for their families. This is leading to a new level if insecurity. People are acting out on a multitude of levels.  Speaking with many property managers through the week, we are finding they are taking the heat on a new level. Many are opening the doors to apartments and finding an array of messes, unfortunately from suicide, to angry, disgruntled tenants leaving behind destruction.  

We here at SERVPRO are ready to help restore your property. Weather it is a biohazard or demolished property, we have your back! Give us a call on your next apartment turn over! 503-883-8960

Getting to the Bottom of Soot Damage

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Soot Must Be Removed By a Professional

The other day we received a call from a property manager, alerting us that one of his tenants had a small indoor fire. The tenant had waited two days and tried cleaning himself. The unit’s fire occurred in the kitchen and carried soot through out the home. Every piece of furniture and wall had soot damage from the smoldering fire. He decided to scrub the walls himself. Not knowing that using cleaning materials on soot and rubbing with a cloth rubbed the soot further into the paint. Causing further damage, including needing to repaint.

When a fire occurs, chemicals disperse and land like dust on everything. Sometimes soot can be dry and or wet. It all depends on the type of material that has burned. Clean up of soot must be done with a HEPA Vacuum. The soot is removed by sucking or sponging it off the walls. No matter the size of a fire damage, call SERVPRO professionals to have your soot damage remediation service performed.

We Are First Responders

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO to Protect You Property After a Fire!

As a restoration company, we are first responders following significant fire damage to a property. 2 Alarm fires are considered fires in which the firemen have had to puncture a hole in the roof to help the home breathe, as it has filled with soot and is still on fire or smoldering. They call this venting the structure. Electricity, gas and water must be cut to the property to limit further catastrophe. As first responders we determine the need to protect the property. If it is a major fire, we board up and protect the structure until the fire investigator has completed his report. Determining the extent of the damage is the next step. Here at SERVPRO we have a 3D camera that allows us to capture and document the extent of damage that has occurred. This allows for the owner and insurance company to see firsthand the depth of the damage. Proper documentation is key to restoration. Call your local first responders at SERVPRO 503-883-8960

Fire Damage Assessment

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Professionals are Needed to Assess Fire Damage

No one wants to suffer damage due to a fire. It is very major life traumatic event. The most important part after a fire is remediation assessment services, completed by a professional. There must be a full inspection completed, to determine how much of your home has smoke or fire damage. How deep did the fire penetrate the structure? How much smoke and soot has covered your personal belongings and is on the surfaces. Have your walls, furniture and fixtures endured or show signs of heat damage? The need to remove undamaged personal property to prevent further smoke damage due to the lingering smoke. Hiring a professional fire damage restoration company allows for a full comprehensive investigation and prevents further damage. If you have experienced fire damage, call us right away! Here at SERVPRO we are always "Here to Help"!

A Fire is Always an Unexpected Experience!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Have SERVPRO Professionals by your side when disaster strikes!

Here at SERVPRO we aim to make sure the journey of recovering from a fire starts with our clients understanding the process. Like many, a house fire is never planned or expected. It can happen at anytime and for no reason at all, leaving the homeowner in a state of disarray for a duration of time. Our professionals clearly walk our clients through all steps, including being initial first responders at the time of the fire. We go through the fire with them, see that they and their property are secured for the evening and take all necessary steps to assist in that undeniably horrific life experience. Then we advise, have you contacted your insurance company?  Once we have authorization, we begin the remediation services. From that point on we document and have complete open communication with the client and their insurance professionals, allowing for the reconstruction and ability to get clients back in their homes. Have us here at SERVPRO, by your side in a fire!

Summer Storms Have Started in Oregon

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Weather is Unpredictable

While out visiting with one of our local clients, I caught word that they would be down an employee starting tonight. My thought, oh no- did COVID hit? Without hesitation, they advised that their employee is a volunteer fire fighter and was called out to a wildfire. It has started, the storms Summer Storms of Oregon have begun. High temperatures of over 100 degrees mixed with humidity this week created the perfect storm of lightning strikes. The Cascade Mountains east of Salem took the brunt of lightning with a handful of strikes igniting. Currently there are 6 small wildfires burning deep within the vegetation. Many volunteer fire fighters are currently heading that way to help in assisting with many counties to tackle these head on. Here at SERVPRO we salute our fellow emergency responders and the volunteers that show up to protect. We also keep a close eye to see that no property damage is at risk. However if you are affected by wildfires this summer, know that we here at SERVPRO are here to help!

Faster to Any Disaster!

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Faster to Any Disaster!

When a pipe bust, we are there to extract water and mitigate damages. When a fire ravages a property, we are there with the proper equipment to clean and protect the property. When you need a kind, caring and knowledgeable professional to guide you through the process, we are available. No matter the disaster we are always here to help. Here at SERVPRO we are faster to any size disaster, specializing in Residential and Commercial Emergency Services. As a nationally known company we take pride in being part of our fellow franchise owners continued combined overall excellence of service. SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration industry, and our professionals take the necessary steps immediately to ensure the safety and protection needed to secure your property. Our SERVPRO franchise professionals are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week and are ready to restore or clean your property. Call today 503-883-8960!

Why SERVPRO?

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

24/7 Here to Help!

When the call comes in at 3am that there is a 2-alarm fire, we respond. When the chief of the fire station calls and ask you to come secure a home that has been overtaken by squatters and is on fire, we respond. When a know pathogen has declared its presence, we respond. When a property manager discovers feces, we respond. When there is a vandalized property, we respond. When a pipe burst, and water is wreaking havoc, we respond. When mold has been discovered, we respond. When sewage and back up has created a hazard, we respond. When death or suicide has left its mark, we respond. When there is an odor, we respond. Here at SERVPRO we tackle the dirty jobs. We take pride in knowing that we can cleanup and restore a property. Here at SERVPRO we are always here to help! Call 503-883-8960.

You Can Count on Us!

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Logo by SERVPRO

So, the other day, I was working along, and the phone rang. A soft voice on the other side was an older lady. Her voice and speech were quite and sounded very distant. I said, "We are here to help, what is going on?" She responded, “I am embarrassed to say." I reassured her it was “OK” and that we were here to help. She proceeded with, “Well my husband has continence issues and we have a mess all over the house and I don’t know what to do.” My response, “You are in luck and called the right company.” That is what we do here at SERVPRO. We would be happy to get your place clean-up. She replied with "Oh Sweet Heavens, when can you be here?"

I share this story because, all to often many people are afraid to ask for help. Here at SERVPRO, you can count on us to assist in the messiest of jobs. Give a call at 503-883-8960!

Helping our Community!

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Community Working Together!

Why SERVPRO?

Recently our local Business Chamber networked with and provided our number to a local nonprofit who needed some cleaning.

Ali, an exceedingly kind soul in our community had set up showers for residents in the community at the local pool. She seen that there were overpopulated households and homeless people that needed a location to shower. Being that we are amidst a global pandemic, her fear set in on how to disinfect after each person showered. That is when she reached out to John at the Chamber and he in return suggested us.  We were pleased to get the call.  The following Wednesday we set up and had a technician there to disinfect after every shower, bring peace to Ali.

We are not the Hero in this story, Ali is. She is truly a great citizen with beautiful core values and care of our community. We are always here to help along and with our fellow community members. 503-883-8960!

Going Over and Beyond as a Team in the Community!

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Face Masks for Businesses!

Face masks.  Here at SERVPRO we have been blessed to have the PPE we need. However, others in the community have not had the access to face mask. Recently, the local business chamber was granted a few thousand face masks to distribute to local business in the community. This was a large mission to get handed out. So here at SERVPRO we decided to lend a hand in getting these out to our fellow businesses in the community. The overwhelming gratitude was beyond heart whelming. In a time that businesses are tackling so many new recommendations and obstacles to be open, we were happy to help! Not only that, we got to meet many new members of our community! United with in the community, we are “all" embracing the changes that come at us daily. Why SERVPRO? We are ALWAYS here to help! 503-883-8960

Committed to Helping Others

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

People Helping People!

Why SERVPRO? Our mission statement is true beyond measures. “Here to Help”! What that means, we show up in a time of need. We listen, assess and provide direction. We are a sound board of reason when there seems like no other option. As leading experts in our field, we know compassion links right along with the work at hand. Restoring property is the easy part of our job, it is being there to help the individual and be attentive to the traumatic experience they are going through that sets us apart. Our commitment to seeing that our client’s needs are met and is what brings us the joy. Here at SERVPRO all of us take the journey with you, providing clear and constant communication! Our professionals are just a phone call away, 503-883-8960!

Fire! Grease Fires!

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fire Extinguisher

Oh boy, I am sure you have all been watching the news. Fires around the town are almost double what they were this time last year. Residential and businesses are seeing an uptick in fire damage. We are finding this is because many are at home and trying new cooking ideas. The past few months we have been called out to help clean up on deep fired Oreos, deep fried churros and a slew of other grease fire issues. Many reach to water in a grease fire and that is a big ‘NO, NO’.  

Here is what to do.

-Cover the flames with a metal object

-Turn off the heat source

- If small, pour baking or salt on it.

-Spray with fire extinguisher

Call us here at 503-883-8960 SERVPRO to come assess the damage and provide clean- up services!

Storms in Summer?

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Storm

We are typically not thinking of Storms, during this Summer months. As here in Oregon many associate storms with rain, snow and ice. However, that is a misconception, with lack of normal rain fall we have been having we have new type of Storm, in which we should be aware of. We call this a “fire storm”. Oregon is dense in heavily populated forest in which people love to camp and have campfires. We also have periodic lightning strikes that creates fires. Natural disasters can occur at anytime and fire is one of the many outcomes. Here at SERVPRO we are ready and able to respond to any major storm event, including fires. If a fire storm causes damage to your property, we here at SERVPRO are here to help! 503-883-8960

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and absurdness.

Let us help you get back to business
As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.
Extensive training and specialized products
As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.
From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.
3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify
When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.
Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials. In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible.
Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.
Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation
We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Northeast & Southeast Salem today at [503-883-8960] for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019
Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience. Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Preventative Commercial Business Cleaning

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
If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Southeast Portland 503-427-9535.

Springing Forward is So Rewarding, That Extra Hour of Daylight Brings the Time Needed to Tackle Home Maintenance Projects…

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

Time to Check the Roof.

The birds are chirping, and the cherry buds are blooming. It’s time to get outside and check on your home. Here at SERVPRO we wanted to discuss some very important home maintenance ideas for homeowners. Owning a home comes with great pride but knowing what to look for is not always something we are aware of. The first role of a homeowner is to make sure all preventive maintenance is done and needed repairs are made in a timely manner. Here are our top ten exterior inspections to prevent possible future water, mold or fire damage.

1. Check your roof exterior; look to see if any shingles are missing or not properly lined. Make sure any valleys of your roof are clear of debris. Check for mold growing. Check the flashing around the chimney and anything else that sticks out of the roof.
2. Check the roof interior; go into your attic and inspect for roof leaks, sagging or black lines. The black line is the path from where the water started.
3. Check the fascia, gutters, downspouts, siding and corner boards on your home.
4. Check windows, doors, decks, porches and stairs.
5. Check your irrigation, make sure no pipes are exposed or nozzles are broken.
6. Clear away any shrubs or trees that touch your home; to prevent rodents or insects from crawling in.
7. Check your HVAC System, have it inspected?
8. Check all your outside facets for leaks.
9. Check the foundation of your home for cracks. Go in your crawl hole or into your basement to detect any water. Call SERVPRO for mold testing, if water is discovered.
10. Check for exposed wires or broken pipes.

If you need assistance with any of the above items, reach out to SERVPRO. We are here to help! As a contractor with many certifications, we have the tools to access and assist.

No Matter What Type of Disaster, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is There

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

During the event of any size disaster SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is the best choice when choosing a restoration company for three simple reasons. We are faster, properly equipped, and perfectly resourced.

As a locally owned and operated franchise we will quickly travel to your location in the event of a disaster. As your neighbor we will be there the moment you need us. We understand how troublesome a problem can be, and we never want our customers to have to wait during a stressful moment of their life. Our specialized storm teams can respond immediately to restore your property.

Here at SERVPRO of Southeast Salem we specialize in flood and storm damage and have a network of tools and equipment to handle any size disaster. We only use state of the art equipment and we are constantly updating our inventory to offer our customers the best possible service. If you need three fans, or well over 100, we have the tools necessary for any sized job.

We are an independently owned franchise of the largest restoration company in the country. Our brand has grown to several thousand franchises because we have the resources necessary for any type of disaster at our disposal. Our world-class Disaster Relief Team is strategically placed throughout the country to respond to any area immediately. Give us a call and we will be there to get your life back to normal.

When Lightning Strikes... SERVPRO of Southeast is There To Help

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

The odds of being struck by lightning is much more likely than that of winning at most games of chance including the Lottery.  The actual odds for the average American to be struck by lightning is approximately 1 in 5,000 during their lifetime.  On the bright side if you are unlucky enough to be struck you have a 9 out of 10 chance of survival on average.  A more dangerous than being directly struck result of lightning is the fires it can cause. 

Just last year in Oregon at this time at least 163 wildfires were detected in the state after 2,800 lightning strikes. In a few days the numbers had settled down to 47 fires that burned over 22,000 acres, according to the Department of Forestry.  Lightning is quite often a sudden occurrence that sometimes is impossible to prepare for.  Especially in the case of the beautiful uninhabited forests of Oregon.  Luckily it is a rare occurrence that homes or buildings are the target of the lightning bolts. 

Nationally United States fire departments annually respond to an estimated average of 22,600 fires that were caused by lightning. These fires caused an estimated average of nine deaths, 53 injuries and $451 million in direct property damage per year. 

When we are called to an unfortunate situation you can rest assured that we will always be empathetic and professional.  While we have no control over these lightning strikes or the devastating damage they cause, we can lessen the financial burden of the damage with our services.  Our highly trained technicians at SERVPRO of Southeast Salem are always available to provide our fire restoration services no matter what the cause of the fire.

Does Your Company Know What to do in a Flood Emergency?

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

A broken pipe, clogged drain or leaking roof can bring your business to a halt.  We all know that time is money, so the faster you can back up an running is very important.  Other than the cost of the damage itself, the cost of not being able to conduct your business can be devastating to your bottom line.  

That's why SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is here for our local businesses anytime day or night.  We know the importance of getting your business back up and running.  That is precisely why our highly skilled water mitigation and restoration technicians are always ready to help.  We work diligently to ease the pain associated with a water disaster.  If this happens all you need to do is call us and we can get you back to work faster than anyone else.  

We can also help you before the loss occurs with our Emergency Ready Plan (ERP).  This completely free service is offered to everyone in our community to be prepared when the unexpected happens.  If you manage, own or lease a commercial property and would like one of our friendly staff to provide this for you, please call us.  

A Dripping or Leaking Faucet Can Lead to More Damage Than You Might Think.

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

Ring Ring… Ring Ring… Ring Ri… Snooze.

If you are in the majority of America, 57% to be exact, you push the snooze button on your alarm at least once every morning. If that five to fifteen minutes is going to benefit or hurt your morning, depends on your situation.

Drip Drop… Drip Drop… Drip Drop…

Unfortunately, there isn't a button to stop the flow of water or prevent further water damage. After the water damage has happened every minute that you snooze yourself away from taking action can be more and more harm to your property. Within minutes of the water leak, piping malfunction, or one of the other numerous ways water damage can occur, the water quickly spreads throughout your property. Absorbing into walls, floors, and other easily susceptible areas of your home. Your personal belongings such as photos, important documents, family heirlooms, and electronic devices can be completely destroyed within that first fifteen minutes.

Spring Spring… Into Into… Action Action…

Locating your water shutoff valves can be a hassle when you only have a few minutes left on the clock to prevent further damage. Don’t catch yourself snoozing – it is important to know the location of all your major water shut off valves so that you can quickly spring into action and minimize the damage to your home and belongings. While 15 minutes of extra sleep goes by in a flash in the morning; that 15 minutes is all the leaky pipe needs to destroy memories while taking cash out of your pocket. Call us at SERVPRO of Southeast Salem and we will drop what we are doing to spring into action for you.

The Effects of Water Damage

9/16/2019 (Permalink)

The damage caused by water can be devastating for property owners. Heavy rain or quickly melting snow increases the potential of this type of damage. Unwanted damage can result in costly damages to wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, and plumbing equipment. Water damage also increases the risk of mold growth.  The cost of the remediation process can be very expensive as well. Hiring a water damage restoration company can make the cleanup process easier to handle, as these companies employ experienced workers who know the best ways to repair or replace damaged items and help with water damage cleanup.

Causes of Water Damage

There are several possible causes of water damage. Leaky dishwashers, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks are just some of the possible causes of water damage in homes and businesses. Floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements. Too much water can lead to minor problems such as water in basement areas, or it can lead to the destruction of homes and businesses. Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately. Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items.

Categories of Water Damage

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. There are several different categories assigned to water damage. Category 1 refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows. Category 2 water is also called gray water.  Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage. Category 3 water is known as black water. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options. Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

Restoration Process

The water restoration process is an important one. Using the right procedures and materials can help people save cherished belongings and even prevent their homes from being condemned. Water restoration companies specialize in mitigating the effects of water, but the success for water damage restoration depends on the severity of the damage and the amount of water that caused the damage. Water restoration companies may hire outside experts such as SERVPRO of Southeast Salem to assess a property and determine a water restoration and water removal plan. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem uses high-tech equipment and well-documented procedures to control water damage. Water in basement areas may only require a short cleanup process, but water in other areas of a property will require extensive remediation.

Know What to do in the Event of an Earthquake

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Knowing what to do in the event of a natural disaster or another unwelcomed event is crucial. Gathering a go-bag, plenty of food, water, and other survival supplies is strongly recommended to all Salem residents. Unfortunately, not all risks can be prevented or planned. The Pacific Northwest is sitting on a major fault line that is expected to slip within the next 50 to 500 years. Oregon also has neighbored some devastating earthquakes in the past. The most notable example being The Great 1906 San Francisco Earthquake. This disaster left thousands of casualties and destroyed close to 30,000 buildings. In 1989 there was the Loma Prieta San Francisco earthquake. This occurred during the World Series and many were in awe of the devastation this caused. 

Preparing for such a disastrous event is almost impossible. However, when something falls down it is in our nature to pick up the pieces and rebuild. At SERVPRO of Southeast Salem, we fix what has been broken every single day we come into work. Whether it be an earthquake, a storm, or a fire breaks out; we will be there within a moments notice to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Flooded Basement? SERVPRO of Southeast Salem can Help!

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Basement here the Pacific Northwest are unfortunately prone to flooding.  Some of the reasons your Salem area basement would flood are: 

• A clogged or failing sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rains causing water to pool around the house
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

If any of these happen to you, give us a call and we will dispatch our highly trained technicians immediately.  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.

We specialize in water restoration and extraction:

• 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 adhere to s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Call SERVPRO of Southeast Salem if you ever have a water emergency and we will make it, "Like it never even happened."

Flooded Chiropractic Clinic

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

A Chiropractic and Wellness center located in SE Salem had the unfortunate experience of a clogged drain their restroom. We were contacted by the owner and in just an hour our team here at SERVPRO of Southeast Salem was there to help.  When our technicians arrived promptly to inspect the loss with the owner they realized the damage had affected the entire building.  Unfortunately spreading through the entire first floor going through multiple rooms as well as contaminating many contents. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem was able to go in and get the job done efficiently and effectively. The picture shows the before of the source of damage. The owner was extremely pleased with our fast response time as well as our overall remediation process. We pride ourselves on being able to help out our local friends and neighbors when an unfortunate situation occurs.  

Oh sNOw!

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

Many Oregon residents will remember the snowstorm in December of 2008. Temperatures plummeted, schools closed, peoples lives halted. Tri-Met shut down two-thirds of their bus lines while hundreds of flights were canceled and flyers were stuck in the airport for hours. The storm affected thousands of others who attempted to traverse through the snow but failed. The storm cost the city over $2 million on related services. Nearly everyone has a story from the massive, crazy, and unexpected 2008 snowstorm.

The snowstorm in December of 2008 doesn't even come close to some of the snowstorms to hit the Salem and the surrounding area in recorded history. In 1884 Salem experienced its snowiest December with over 31 inches of snow which surely closed everything down. If we were to suffer record-breaking snow again, the damage associated with it is unthinkable and would send thousands into a frenzy.

With ice on the ground and a sharp decrease in temperature, any small cracks inside of pipes can easily expand to the point that they burst. Broken pipes aren’t the only fear when a storm similar to this hits. What happens to all the water once it melts? Several feet of melted snow can easily infiltrate your home. Without proper weathering and flood protection, your home could turn into an indoor swimming pool as the result of melting snow. If a snowstorm of any severity happens SERVPRO of Southeast Salem has a network of Storm Responders that are “Faster to any size disaster”. We are dedicating to serving you in your moment of need any time of year.

Floods may not be that common, but they do happen in Oregon

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

The Christmas Flood that happened in 1964 may not be known by many.  Anyone that experienced it may have forgotten and of course some of us had not been born or were too young to recall. This particular flood caused hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage and continued for over three weeks. This was one of the most devastating floods to hit the Willamette Valley in recorded history.  As a result of the damage over three thousand people were displaced from their residences and sadly there were seventeen casualties.  This flood has been referred to as a 100-year flood which means a similar occurance may happen again.

Another instance of flooding more recently was the Willamette Valley Flood of 1996.  The rising waters affected the areas of Oregon City, Tillamook, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The destruction caused an estimated half a billion dollars in property damage leaving some areas under water for a couple weeks.  Again there were unfortunately eight casualties resulting as well in Oregon.

If there is another flooding natural disaster, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is always faster to any size disaster.  We also use the best equipment available so our highly trained technicians will restore your property to get things back to normal as soon as possible.  

Untreated Water Damage Can Lead to a Mold Problem

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Black mold can spread through your home as the result of a few things. The most common is improperly treatemed water damage. The two types of water damage that may result in mold spores  inside your home are a slow, unnoticed leak the other a large and sudden loss.

First the slow leak is common when there is a leaky pipe that isn't easily visable under a sink, inside the walls, around a windowsill, or underneath the flooring. These result in the affected area being dark and damp which allows for the mold growth.

The second most common is a large sudden loss.  These generally occur as the result of a burst pipe, glogged drain, roof leak or a flood that result in standing water.  Many will remove the water themselves with a shopvac and attempt to air it out with fans and opening windows.  In a situation with this amount of water this may not fix the problem properly and can lead more porblems.  The main problem being the growth of mold from not properly drying out the affected area. Having a reputable water mitigation and restoration company that can properly identify the and remediate the situation can help any issues in the future.

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem’s technicians are highly trained to identify and target water damage at the source. One way to detect the slow, unnoticed leak would be to monitor your water usage bill. If there is a noticeable increase in water usage without any explanation could be the result of a leak. Calling a plumber to identify any potential problems would be the best thing to do. After a large, sudden loss, it is best to give a water damage restoration business a call so that your problem can be handled by professionals. As the best water damage restoration business out there, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Go Local to Get Help

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem was referred to a local job by a commercial organization. A sink had malfunctioned, causing water to pour out and onto the floor overnight. When the store manager went in the next morning, she was not happy to discover flooded floors. She called it in and the company hired us for the job. The water affected the floors and baseboards as well. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem went in and did the job in a making sure to never get in the way employees during the timely drying and remediation process. Even during store hours, our techs made sure it was convenient for the employees and to not disturb any customers. In the time it took for us to get the call and complete the job the company was extremely pleased and said SERVPRO of Southeast Salem was their go-to for any other jobs they would need to be done. 

The Top 5 Causes of Fire in Salem Oregon

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking

It seems everyone in Salem loves to cook and eat, but it is important to practice your culinary skills in a safe manner.  Fires caused by cooking are the number one cause of fires in Salem. Who doesn’t like deep fat fried foods? If you do indulge be cautious since frying with oil is one of the main reasons cooking-related fires start. Others include flammables near the stovetop or other hot surfaces, leaving the area while cooking, faulty appliances and cooking while impaired.  So, enjoy cooking, just remember to be safe. 

Cigarettes

Not only do cigarettes send smoke into your lungs, but they can also bring your home or business up in smoke as one of the main leading causes of fires in Salem.

Electrical Safety

Do you have old outdated appliances or outlets? Well, here's your excuse to buy some new ones, faulty wiring and old appliances big and small can cause electrical fires.  Need a reason to update your lighting? Well, light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs can also be dangerous causing accidental fires. As if that's not enough using extension cords and space heaters and more can ignite their surroundings. 

Home Heating Equipment

Just like space heaters old or new, there are other home heating methods that may cause a fire. For instance, a wood stove, fireplace, gas or electric heat should be inspected to ensure they are functioning properly to prevent a possible fire. 

Candle Safety

Candles are great. They come in a variety of pleasant scents, they create a peaceful atmosphere and they're a good last minute gift for that co-worker you may not know so well. But as wonderful as they are they can pose a firey threat to your home is left unattended. 

Don't Worry, Work Happy!

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem has had the pleasure of working with many commercial businesses. More recently there were three that were affected by water damage. The three businesses are tenants of a large commercial building in Southeast Salem and suffered a few issues. While repairs were being done by roofing contractors a hole was pierced in the roof. This caused water to accumulate inside the attic area of the businesses. Water seeped through the ceiling and floors into the three businesses and damaged electronics, office supplies, wood surfaces, and more.

We were on sight within 24 hours and immediately got to work restoring the businesses. Our team brought in the top of the line dehumidifiers and quickly fixed the issue and we were able to fully restore all affected items. Every surface including walls, floors, desks, computers, chairs were wiped down and taken care of. We worked together with the roofing contractors to prevent the issue from happening again, and the job was completed within 72 hours of the initial damage. When your business is the victim to water damage you can rest easy knowing that SERVPRO of Southeast Salem will be there night or day to make it "Like it never even happened."

Why You Should Check Your Wires

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Many of the commercial buildings in use here in Salem were constructed some time ago. Although older architecture is more unique and nice on the outside, there can be many issues waiting to happen on the inside. For one, the electrical wiring may be just as old as the structure. Depending on the electrical needs of the business, and all the new equipment plugged into old outlets, fires or other damage can occur. This may be rare, but electrical wiring is still a cause of many fires.

Having electrical wiring inspected by a qualified electrician is a great preventive measure. Double-checking the equipment that will be used in conjunction with the power supply is also very important.  If your business is unfortunate enough to experience a fire caused by an electrical malfunction SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is always there to help restore the commercial structure of our friends and neighbors. 

Mold Be Gone!

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem received a call one day regarding a musty smell with no source. It was a commercial property and the smell was coming from one of their rooms. Our team at SERVPRO of Southeast Salem was able to get out there on the same day to help find where the mold was. The owner said they had tried to remove the smell and dry the room out by opening a window. Our production manager asked if baseboards were removed to assist in dry out. Baseboards were not removed and our Production Manager knew exactly what needed to be done. He got permission to remove one baseboard and found the mold. The owner wanted the remediation as soon is possible and our team was able to go the same day and finish the job. The company was so happy with our work and response time they said they would certainly be returning customers and use us in the future for any of their restoration/remediation needs.

Hard Water Doesn't Have to be Hard to Remove

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

It can be difficult to get rid of nasty hard water stains on windows, even for professional cleaning companies. Over 85% of United States residents and businesses reside in hard water areas. Large offices or warehouses with multiple windows are among some of the most difficult tasks to handle. The first step begins with understanding hard water and how it affects the buildings so our cleaning technicians choose the best solutions to get rid of it.

There are no minerals in the rainwater that falls to the Earth. When it passes through the ground it absorbs minerals such as calcium and magnesium. This is what transforms it from “soft water” into “hard water.” Hard water doesn't usually cause any problems with our health but it can be detrimental to plumbing, fixtures, appliances, glass, showers, or pretty much anywhere water is used.

The minerals are left behind once water is evaporated. These ugly deposits cause crusty scale, stains, film, and mineral rings. This build-up can become problematic or permanent if not dealt with quickly.

Hard Water Cleaning Solutions for Removing Those Ugly Stains:

Cleaning companies have many different methods for removing hard water stains. Acidic and non-acidic chemicals, abrasive, natural or manufactured tools, there is a multitude of cleaners that have the ability to remove mineral deposits and scale. To ensure you choose the right cleaning product for the job, surface or fixture you plan on cleaning check the manufacturer's label. You can also test the cleaner in a discreet place first if you are not sure what the outcome will be. The last thing you want to do is cause damage to your customers' building.

The more common method for removing mineral deposits such as calcium, magnesium, and iron is using an acidic product. Most hard water staining can be removed with a combination of the right cleaner, cleaning tool and a little hard work.

Cleaning tools such as white scrubbing pads, scrub brushes, and steel wool, are the usual products to get the job done. Just remember that none of these tools should be used alone, as they can permanently scratch the surface of the window. Only use these tools when the surface of the window is wet with water or cleaning chemical.

Starting your cleaning process with less harmful chemicals, tools, and methods are recommended. Then step it up to more aggressive methods should the issue persist. It may take several attempts to remove stubborn deposits.

Beware of strong acidic chemicals as they are very corrosive and damaging to certain surfaces such as stainless steel and chrome. These tools will “eat” through surfaces, so never attempt to use such chemicals without the proper training and testing.

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem Helps You Rebuild After a Fire

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

When the fire department has finished bravely doing their job the damage left can be severe.  That is why SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is here.  We are proud help anyone who has been unfortunate enough to experience a fire.  It may be hard to imagine that the burnt remains can ever be back to its former condition. Our highly skill technicians have the training bring back your home or commercial building to preloss condition.   

Once the fire has been extinguished the damage may continue negatively affecting the structure and contents. The smoke and can cause extensive corrosion, etching, discoloration in addition to a strong unpleasant odor. Our team has the training to clean the fire and smoke before it causes any more damage.

The faster you call us, the faster we will be there to start the restoration process.  Our team will work tirelessly to restore your property and possessions.  It is always our company goal to make any traumatic event “Like it never even happened.”

Best in the West

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is the best choice for any size disaster. Our restoration company is great for three simple reasons. We are faster, properly equipped, and perfectly resourced.

As a locally owned and operated franchise, we will quickly travel to your location in the event of any disaster. As your neighbor, we will be there in a moments notice. We know just how frustrating and troubling a problem can be, and we never want our customers to have to wait during a stressful moment such as this. Our specialized teams can respond immediately to restore your property during a storm.

Here at SERVPRO of Southeast Salem we specialize in flood and storm damage and have an immense collection of tools and equipment to take care of any size disaster. We only use state of the art equipment and we are constantly updating our inventory to offer our customers the best service. If you need three fans, or well over 100, we have the tools and the team necessary to get the job done.

We are an independently owned franchise of the largest restoration company in the country. Our brand has grown to several thousand franchises because we have the resources necessary for any type of disaster at our disposal. Our outstanding Disaster Relief Team is strategically placed throughout the country to respond to any area immediately. Give us a call and we will be there to get your life back to normal.

Leave it to the professionals

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

An average day can turn into a terrible memory in an instant. Unfortunately, that is what happened for one family here in Southeast Salem when a grease fire took over half of their home. It caused extensive damage. Luckily, in their time of need, the family called SERVPRO of Southeast Salem. Almost immediately we were there and ready to help. Our team made the process as easy and simple for the family reassuring them along the way and informing them of exactly what was needed. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem was there to help every step of the way. The before picture shows just a glimpse of the damage caused. When all the work was done the family couldn't have been happier with SERVPRO of Southeast Salem and their home was not only restored but even better, making it "Like it never even happened." 

No harm in double checking

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Salem received an interesting call one day called about a home going on the market. Our client was buying a home and upon checking into the history they discovered a fire had occurred 10 years prior. Upon further investigation, they found smoke and fire remediation had taken place everywhere except for the attic. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem went to do an inspection and we were able to discuss with our client potential work that could be done.  The work would be to assure that any hidden issues there may be would be addressed and could be fixed. We make sure every job is done righ so you can always be reassured that we will leave no stone unturned. Our client's satisfaction is always our number one priority. 

It's no miracle,we're just doing our job

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

Wall heaters at a SE Salem Catholic church began to emit a thick black smoke on a chilly day. It was a weekday so usually, the church office would be vacant. Luckily on this day the pastor was present and turned the heater off before a fire ignited then promptly contacted his local fire department. The firefighters arrived and cleared the church and made sure it was safe to return inside. After they had confirmed it was safe they called their insurance agency. The agent recommended they give us a call at SERVPRO of Southeast Salem for smoke remediation. Our team was on-site within the hour doing the inspection to quickly start the remediation process. We placed our equipment throughout the structure starting the process and our techs got to work. The everything went by smoothly and the good people of the church community couldn't stop praising the amazing work SERVPRO of Southeast Salem had done. 

Wacky Weather in salem (tornado)

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

When thinking about Salem weather tornadoes don't usually pop up first. On average there are only three that occur in all of Oregon annually so it makes sense why Salem residents don't think of them. Albeit uncommon, just recently a tornado touched down on the city. Oregon and Southwest Washington ended with toppled trees and power outages as well. Some trees were uprooted and an attic fire was reported as a result of the extreme weather. On the upside, no injuries were reported from the event. As rare as this type of storm to occur here in Salem It does happen.  If your home or business is subject to damages from severe weather SERVPRO of Southeast Salem can make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Insurance Claims Can Be Difficult, Having Photos Helps

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Having picture documentation of your home and its contents can be helpful if you ever have to endure a fire.  These photos help to show the condition the structure was in prior to the fire.  They also provide an accurate depiction of the contents you have and their condition.  These photos could be quite valuable when working with the insurance company in filing a claim.

A recent incident I heard about showed the importance of having these photos.  In this case a home had recently cuaght fire from a malfunctioning dryer.  The home owner had wnet to the store for a moment and came back to the fire department battling a large fire at his home.  The homeowner had taken pictures of the home and its contents on his phone.  The problem with this is his phone was also consumed by the fire.  

This scenario could easily happen to anyone.  Many of us may not take our phone with us all the time.  On the bright side there are quite a few ways to store and backup photos with current technoligies.  From the various cloud based storage options such as:  Icloud, Google Drive and Dropbox.  If the cloud isn't you thing printed copies could be kept in a fire-proof safe or even at a safety deposit box.  The key takeaway from this is to have photos of your property and contents as well as have them stored so they wouldn't be affected by a disaster.  

Highest Quality Products and Equipment

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Rapid advancements in the technology and techniques allow SERVPRO of Southeast Salem Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably and more effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets practical standards for restoration and cleaning. The IICRC S500 Water Damage Guide is a specific set of practical standards that incorporate the field of psychometry, which involves the manipulation of temperature and relative humidity to remove moisture and dry a property quickly and effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.

• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 

• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.

Drying Equipment

• High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace

• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

• Air scrubbers

• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Anti-Microbial Treatments

• Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.

• Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

Proud to be a member of the Southeast Salem Community

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southeast Portland takes great pride in being a part of the Southeast Salem community. We understand that communities like ours hold America together. Recently participating in the Hope Gala for the local Catholic Charities was a great way to be involved in our community.  We want to do our part to ensure the Southeast Salem community thrives by helping those less fortunate, keeping the area safe and making our community the best it can be.

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is close by and ready to respond to your cleaning or restoration needs. We are proud to be an active member of the Salem, OR community and want to do our part to make our community the best it can be.

24/7 365 We Are There for You

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night.

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 1,700 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Southeast Salem arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. Here's a look at the 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.

Our Knowledge and Experience Benefits our Customers

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO's Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC, (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification), industry certifications, and continuing education classes. This self-paced program includes; Crew Training, Fire Restoration, Water Restoration and Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination.

When it comes to voluntary training the SERVPRO program is designed to be an ongoing, self-paced coaching series for a franchise's employees. E-learnings, such as video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office staff up to speed on industry standards and the professional quality you expect ensures each of our locations is trained through this 15-day hands-on course which is the foundation of the SERVPRO success. Rest assured, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. 

Lastly, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals and franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation

Honesty and Integrity

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Southeast Salem understands the stress and worry that comes with a fire or water damage and the disruption it causes to your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize this interruption so you can get back to living your life.

At SERVPRO of Southeast Salem, we are dedicated to restoring your property to "Like it never even happened." As a locally owned and operated company, providing our friends and neighbors with the best possible customer service is our business.

We are proud to serve our local Oregon communities; Salem, Woodburn, Mount Angel, Hubbard, Donald, Four Corners, Stayton and surrounding areas.  

In addition, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process for you.

Our Customers Always Come First

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Since 1967, SERVPRO has been dedicated to keeping our customers happy.  SERVPRO of Southeast Salem is proud to be able to carry on this tradition.  Our mission is to leave each job, large or small with our customers being 100% satisfied.

SERVPRO is invested in the local community and making sure our neighbors are taking care of quickly and efficiently and in constant contact every step of the way.  Using a customer centric approach in every customer interaction is how we ensure satisfaction.  We know there is not a one size fits all answer for any situation.  For this reason we help to find an individualized solution that meets the needs of your unique circumstances.   

We are proud to be a service you know and trust.