We are Cleaning Experts

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Laredo 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 North Laredo, 956-568-0266

SERVPRO of North Laredo, a Company who Cares

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

If your property is damaged by the elements, give us a call at (956) 568-0266

SERVPRO of North Laredo has an extensive history in the restoration industry. The owners' expertise in the insurance claims field, and his passion for helping people in their time of need was the motivating factor for opening a SERVPRO franchise. 

When your home or business is damaged by the elements, SERVPRO of North Laredo is on call to respond. By using their experience to ensure that every step of the remediation process is done right from beginning to end. Fire damage, water damage, mold damage, and storm damage can all be overwhelming things to face -- let us use our experience, resources, equipment, training, and knowledge of the restoration industry for your benefit. We will assess the damage, determine a plan on how to fix it, and keep you informed every step of the way.

We Are Coronavirus Cleaning Services and Biohazard Experts

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and sanitize your business.

CLEAN AND SANITIZE

According to the CDC, COVID -19 can survive on certain types of surfaces, such as plastic and stainless steel, for 2-3 days. People can become infected with the virus by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus, and then touching their mouths, noses, or eyes. Two processes need to be followed in order to minimize the risk of exposure:

• Cleaning refers to the removal of dirt and impurities from surfaces. Cleaning alone does not kill germs, but it decreases the risk of spreading infection. It is recommended to clean all frequently touched surfaces in the workplace, such as workstations, keyboards, telephones, handrails, and doorknobs.

• Sanitizing is the use of chemicals to reduce germs on surfaces. By reducing germs on a surface after cleaning, you can further lower the risk of spreading infection. Using EPA registered disinfectants is an important part of reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

SERVPRO of North Laredo professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and sanitize your business using EPA registered disinfectants according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We offer a level of clean that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning; we offer a proactive viral pathogen cleaning.

USE EPA REGISTERED PRODUCTS ONLY

According to the EPA statements, consumers should beware of imposter disinfectant products that are being marketed with potentially dangerous claims of protection against the novel coronavirus.

The EPA has warned against companies that are trying to take advantage of this pandemic by offering fraudulent products and/or cleaning services, and claim to use products that have anti-viral, antibacterial, disinfectant, sterilizing, or sanitizing properties.

If you are not sure the products being used are EPA registered, you can ask for their SDS (safety data sheets). If none are provided or offered, then the product is not registered.

EPA registered products are evaluated to ensure they achieve the intended functions, e.g., disinfection, while preventing unreasonable adverse health and environmental consequences.    

Not using EPA registered products, and/or mixing the wrong chemicals can cause fumes that may be very dangerous to breathe in.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

At SERVPRO of North Laredo, we make sure to use only EPA registered products. We’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal.

“Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned”, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. We are proactively conducting viral pathogen sanitizing. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of North Laredo Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

• IICRC certified firm: SERVPRO of North Laredo is an IICRC certified firm (certification awarded by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration).
• OSHA certified: All of our employees have completed the OSHA 10 hours safety course as well as the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen in the Work Place course to ensure all necessary safeguards are followed.
• PPE: when we conduct a COVID sanitizing job, we make sure we use personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times, such as protective clothing, helmets, goggles, and/or other garments or equipment designed to protect the wearer's body from injury or infection, depending on the scope of the job.
• UVL fogging machines: we use equipment such as ultra-low volume (ULV) fogging machines, which are cold fogging machines that use large volumes of air at low pressures to transform liquid into droplets that are dispersed into the atmosphere. ULV machines are typically used to apply sterilizers and disinfectants amongst other chemicals.
• Electrostatic sprayers: Electrostatic spray surface cleaning is the process of spraying an electrostatically charged mist onto surfaces and objects. Electrostatic spray uses a specialized solution that is combined with air and atomized by an electrode inside the sprayer. Subsequently, the spray contains positively charged particles that are able to aggressively adhere to surfaces and objects. Because the particles in the spray are positively charged, they cling to and coat any surface they’re aimed at. After the spray is applied, the sanitizing agent works to disinfect the covered surfaces. For this reason, electrostatic spray is an excellent solution for germ and contaminant ridden areas.

At SERVPRO of North Laredo it is our duty, not our job, to inspire confidence by ensuring your business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, making community possible again. We’re here to help—24 hours a day, seven days a week—until life is back to normal in the community we call home.

How to Avoid Fires During Winter

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Winter fires can be prevented

Fire does not care what season it is or whether or not it’s cold outside. Winter related fires are extremely common, especially when you are trying hard to keep warm. 

Our offices in Laredo have experience in fire damage from space heaters and can provide you with some tips to help avoid having to deal with these types of destructive events this winter season. 

Placing space heaters too close to other objects or using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems. 

Electric heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be useful for many areas in your home. However, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the device and never use extension cords.

Our SERVPRO of Laredo staff gets an incredible amount of space heater-related calls every winter. People are trying to stay warm and use space heaters quite often for this purpose. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Just use common sense, and always follow the directions of the manufacturer.

Follow a few simple guidelines when operating your space heater: 

1) Always place space heaters on a flat, solid surface for proper stabilization. 

2) Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers from tipping. 

3) Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home. 

4) Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters. 

5) Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep. 

Following these guidelines does not ensure that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are less likely to have an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home this winter season, make the call to our offices immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get back to normal fast. 

Call SERVPRO of North Laredo today at (956)-568-0266

Cleaning up after a broken water heater

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

For any size disaster, give SERVPRO of North Laredo a call (956)568-0266

There are many issues arising from a broken water heater besides the cost of replacing such water heater. Left unsolved, water issues can turn into appliance repairs, wall and flooring replacement, to name just a few. Make sure you don’t pay thousands of dollars in water damage.

Drying as Top Priority

The first step is to clear out the water and dry the affected areas. In cases like these, SERVPRO of North Laredo professionals use drain pipes and vacuum cleaners specially designed for water removal. We also use industrial fans to speed air flow through the affected space.

Cleaning Is Crucial

Water coming from a leaking water heater is usually classified by insurance specialists as Category 2 water. This kind of water is not terribly dangerous, but it can still cause health effects if the area is not cleaned. SERVPRO of North Laredo professionals always sanitize the affected areas thoroughly to ensure that mold and other undesirables are not allowed to infect your home.

Why call the Professionals?

When you call a reputable water removal professional can ease your mind and mitigate any lingering concerns. These professionals have the expertise to examine everywhere the leaked water could have affected – including underneath flooring and inside walls. So much potential damage from water issues occurs in invisible places, so it’s important to have a water removal specialist on-site.

If you’re dealing with a leaking water heater, just remember three simple steps: Dry it, clean it, and call a professional. By taking quick action to remediate water issues, you can resolve the problem without breaking the bank.

Are you experiencing water damage? Give us a call!

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

For any size disaster, give us a call at (956) 568-0266

When water damage strikes, it isn't just something that you see, but something that can soak into your floor, your walls, your ceiling, and your belongings.

When you call SERVPRO of North Laredo, we arrive quickly and begin the water extraction process as soon as possible. An immediate response time helps to minimize the water damage, and allows us to help you avoid additional loss to your property.

We want to ensure that our neighbors know that they can rely on us when they need us most. Our hope is to provide clarity in a time of chaos. When you see our green trucks pull up to your house, that means that help has arrived.

If you find yourself needing emergency service, call us any time: day or night, at 956-568-0266

The Aftermath of a Storm

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

For any size disaster, give SERVPRO of North Laredo a call at (956) 568-0266

Storm damage

The truth is even the smallest amount of damage from water is potentially hazardous, and water cleanup must be done immediately. When a person finds water in their home or commercial building, it’s already causing damage, despite the small amount. Restoration is a must, and mitigation cannot wait in a situation like this.

Not All Flood Damage is Covered

Flood damage is different than other water damage from a storm or a leaking pipe or sewage issues, which is why homeowners and business owners must take the time to carefully read through insurance policies before signing on the dotted line.

Water Cleanup Must Occur Right Away

Water damage is dangerous, and it takes but a few hours for it to allow mold growth to occur. If there is water in the home or commercial building, owners must get a restoration specialist out immediately. Mitigation is best when it occurs immediately following damage from water. The drying process is very specific, and cleanup takes some time.

Not All Water is Created Equal

It’s a safe bet that no one should enter a home or business where water is present for several reasons. The first is live power sources make the situation too dangerous. The second reason is not all water is created equal. If the damage is from flood damage living next door to an ocean or lake, chances are it’s safe water. However, water damage that comes from a local sewage treatment center or other unknown sources could contain a myriad of contaminants teeming with bacteria that can cause serious issues. Not all water is created equal, and you never know what might be lurking in your water.

It's not uncommon for someone to find water in the home following a terrible storm only to find living creatures in the water. Because many of these living creatures have been displaced as a result of hurricanes or tropical storms, a home filled with water is inviting.

Airing the Building Out Works

Water damage should not be handled without the help of a professional because it requires much more than opening windows and putting fans on the floor. It requires special equipment to properly handle the drying process. If any water is missed, mold becomes a problem. This results in the entire situation becoming more expensive, more dangerous, and more stressful.

Finding water at home or in the office is never a good sign, especially if it’s not due to a flood or other easily explained issue. It could be a plumbing issue, a roof issue, or even a sewage issue. The safest thing to do is call the professionals immediately after you call your insurance company to report this claim. It's imperative to seek restoration and mitigation from a professional source for the best outcome.

How to stay safe in a lightning storm

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

For any storm damage, contact SERVPRO of North Laredo at (956) 568-0266

Although lightning can strike anytime, the chance for lightning increases in the summer months.  Stay safe with these basic tips:

• Have a safety plan, and cancel or postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are expected.
• If you do get caught outside, avoid high ground, open spaces, and all metal objects (this includes electric wires, fences, etc).  Seek shelter in a substantial building, or a fully enclosed vehicle.
• If you are indoors, stay away from doors and windows.  Do not use the telephone, and consider unplugging computers, power tools, and television sets.  Lighting may strike exterior electric or phone lines, and send jolts of electricity to inside equipment.

If a storm has damaged your house and you need help cleaning or repairing the interior or exterior of your home, don't hesitate to give us a call.  You can reach SERVPRO of North Laredo 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (956) 568-0266.

When lightning strikes!

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

For any size disaster, give SERVPRO of North Laredo a call at (956) 568-0266.

It's important that we know our facts about the weather patterns to prepare for any future emergencies.  Learn the common myths and facts about lightning during spring!
 

Myth: If it's not raining, then there is no danger from lightning. 
Fact: Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall.  This is especially true in the western United States where thunderstorms sometimes produce very little rain. 

Myth: The rubber soles of shoes or rubber tires on a car protect you from being struck by lightning. 
Fact: Rubber-soled shoes and rubber tires proved no protection from lightning.  The steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.  Although you may be injured if lightning strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside. 

Myth: "Heat lightning" occurs after very hot summer days and poses no threat. 
Fact: "Heat lightning" is a term used to describe lightning from a thunderstorm too far away for thunder to be heard. 

To find out more information about the myths and the facts about lightning go to www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov. 

Dealing with lightening damages can be very overwhelming to deal with alone.  Give SERVPRO of North Laredo a call at (956) 568-0266. 

Building and Reconstruction Services

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Laredo 956-568-0266

When your residential or commercial property has been damaged by fire, water, or storm damage, the immediate concern should be temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris. Taking these precautions temporarily protects your home or business from further damage. SERVPRO of North Laredo has the expertise and equipment to ensure that your home is protected from further damage.

We offer 24/7 cleanup and restoration services. So when disaster hits in Laredo and surrounding areas, you can be sure SERVPRO of North Laredo can handle your restoration and reconstruction needs.

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Roof Tarp
• Temporary Fencing
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair

Call if you have any questions about our services or want to make an appointment. SERVPRO of North Laredo 956-568-0266.

What causes mold?

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you suspect there is mold in your property, give SERVPRO of North Laredo a call - (956) 568-0266

Black mold occurs when there is a moisture problem. Because mold spores exist everywhere, they are small and can float easily on the air, and they can permeate almost every area. Wet environments are conducive of mold growth; therefore, moisture in your property will result in mold growth. 

Causes

It doesn’t take much to get mold to grow. Given the right setting, black mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours. Here are some contributing factors to an infestation.

• Presence of mold spores
• Warm temperature
• Organic food source like wood, cotton, dirt or drywall.
• Moisture
• Time

When a facility experiences an unhealthy presence of mold growth, it is typically due to a moisture issue. This may be due to an obvious concern like a leaking roof, a flooded toilet or a plumbing problem. Other factors that might be an issue are high humidity, inadequate ventilation or condensation buildup. 

Assessing the Problem

If you are only dealing with minor surface mold, calling in an expert might not be necessary. On the other hand, if the damage is extensive, it might be wise to contact certified and trained specialists in mold assessment to help with the mold cleanup. Mold assessment and identification may not be as easy as spotting the obvious presence; it requires visual examination and testing as well. 

Spores can get in hard-to-reach places like behind walls, in ventilation ducts, beneath sinks and under carpets. This means its presence may go undetected for some time. Special equipment may be necessary to determine whether mold is growing in some of these places. 

If you suspect an extensive mold problem, it is important to take steps to remediate the issue. Make sure to regularly check your facility for moisture damage that might lead to mold growth.

Your commercial property suffered water damage, what's next?

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

When your commercial property suffers water damage, SERVPRO of North Laredo can assist immediately.

Flooding and water damage events at Laredo commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

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

About SERVPRO of North Laredo

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

If your commercial property suffers water damage, give us a call - (956) 568-0266

SERVPRO of North Laredo knows what to do if mold grows in your property

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let mold affect your property! Give us a call at (956)568-0266

It’s estimated that more than 1 million types of mold exist, yet less than 10 percent have actually been named. This means mold is very common in both indoor and outdoor environments. While mold and humans can sometimes co-exist without issue, there are certain species of mold that can cause health effects for some people.

If the right conditions exist, mold will grow.  Those conditions include:

• Water - Different mold types require varying amounts of liquid before growth begins.   
• Temperature - Normal indoor temperatures will promote mold growth.
• Time - Initial mold colonizers can take hold within one day after being exposed to an adequate water supply.

Mold growth can occur in any home, so it’s important to keep an eye out for situations that might promote mold activity. Roof/chimney leaks, wet basements, or condensation from ducts that dampen surrounding insulation are just a few examples of issues that make a house a prime target for mold growth.

If you suspect mold in your home, call SERVPRO of North Laredo to assess the situation. We have the knowledge, tools and track record to effectively remediate mold in your home or business.

If you suspect mold, call us today at (956) 568-0266

What to Do:

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (956) 568-0266

SERVPRO of North Laredo Responds Faster to Any Disaster

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

We respond to any residential and commercial disaster. Give us a call at (956)568-0266

SERVPRO of North Laredo is committed to assist in any-size disaster in Laredo and surrounding areas 24/7. We have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs:

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

Residential Services

Whether your Laredo home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services
• Air Duct Cleaning 

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Laredo commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business.

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Cleaning 
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Building/Reconstruction Services
• Air Duct Cleaning 

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (956) 568-0266

What to Do After an Emergency

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Call the experts!

Emergencies are never planned. We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of North Laredo has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. 

What to Expect When You Call

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

We are always here to help and we are trained to handle the disaster so you don't have to. 

Need Emergency Services? Give us a Call (956) 568-0266

SERVPRO of North Laredo Has the Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience storm damage call us at (956) 568-0266

When storms hit Laredo and the surrounding areas, SERVPRO of North Laredo can scale resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. Because we have a strong network system, we can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

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

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today - (956) 568-0266

Do you suspect your property has a mold problem?

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can spread through a home in as little as 48 hours.

Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy.

Because microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors, it is impossible to remove all mold from a home or business.

SERVPRO of North Laredo specializes in mold remediation, which reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level.

Consider the following mold facts:

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

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

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (956) 568-0266