“April showers” are sometimes much more than just a bit of rain. Spring weather can include a wide range of weather activity - including serious storms with severe winds that can cause serious structure damage and heavy rainfall that can cause over-the-ground flooding, or even flooding from streams and rivers. The storm season is upon us! If you experience damage of any size, these tips may help you get your home back in order more quickly. Keep this advice handy for quick reference.
INSURANCE
• Call your agent as soon as possible.
• Take photographs of the damage.
GETTING HELP FOR YOUR HOME When checking your home or business for damages, watch out for fallen power lines, standing water that may be electrically charged, and wild animals driven into the open.
Plumbing: Check pipes inside and outside your home (i.e. irrigation systems). Within your home, there are usually shut-off valves in specific areas near toilets and under sinks. If necessary, locate the master valve and shut off all water to your home. If sewage is backing up in the shower or under the toilet, it probably means your main sewer line is clogged or broken. Don’t make the problem worse by using other sinks or toilets. Call a professional for assistance.
Roofing: Check your roof for missing shingles. Even if only a few shingles are lost, do not risk life and limb by going onto your roof. Call a professional roofer, contractor or handyman. They have the skills, tools and equipment to do the job safely and properly. Have them do a temporary “fix” to stop rain coming in, until a permanent solution can be arranged.
Electrical: Most damage to electrical systems comes from water. Appliances exposed to water should be disconnected from their power source and serviced before being used. Check for frayed wires and watch for sparks. If you have structural damage or see exposed wires, call an electrician. Keep the power off – there is the possibility of electrocution if you turn the power on yourself. Exterior breaker boxes are typically rain-tight but may not withstand a major storm – if you suspect water has infiltrated the box, call an electrician before turning on the power. Avoid metal fences - they may carry a charge from fallen or dangling utility wires. If a limb or tree has fallen on a power line near your house, turn off the power and call the utility company. If the limb touches your property, it becomes your responsibility. Call an electrician. Do not attempt to cut or clear fallen trees that are around power lines.
FLOODING
For flooding problems, your best plan is to call a professional restoration company. If you decide to do-it-yourself, here are some tips that may help: because of contaminants (such as sewage, oil, pesticides, etc.), take precautions and wear boots, gloves, eye protection, and a respirator; minimize the damage by removing standing water (pump or squeegee the standing water and use a vacuum only if it’s a true wet-dry vacuum); remove everything absorbent that has been contaminated by flood water (carpeting, carpet padding, furniture, drapes, etc.); use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the area; throw away all medicines, cosmetics, and foods - even canned goods - if they have been submerged in floodwaters; check for hidden moisture behind wallboards, and take out damaged portions to avoid mold; and clean floors and cabinets by washing them with detergent, then disinfect with a disinfectant from the grocery or hardware store. Remember, keep a photographic (or video) inventory of anything you must throw out.
FIRING UP THE CHAINSAW
Don’t! Felling a broken tree or clearing away a large downed tree can be dangerous. A professional should be contacted.
AUTOMOBILES
Automobiles can easily be damaged by floodwaters, tree limbs, or falling debris. If an automobile is damaged: notify your insurance agent; cover broken windows if the car appears salvageable; and list valuables in your car that have been lost or damaged.
SCAM - ALERT
Unfortunately, storms and natural disasters bring out those who take advantage of the situation. But by following a few practical guidelines, you can help protect yourself from additional loss: try to work with local or known contractors (verify with the Yellow Pages); don’t pay for work until it is finished and you are satisfied (if a reasonable down payment is required, get a written contract detailing all the work to be performed); pay with a check or a credit card. Beware of a contractor who tries to pressure you. If an offer is only good “now or never,” find someone else. Obtain written estimates for all proposed work that include proposed scopes and prices. Also, beware of charity scams that might use a storm to make their pleas for donations more plausible; only give to organizations you know and recognize.
Regardless of the circumstances – damage from storms or floods, or damage from fire, smoke or even mold, call your local PuroClean office at 312-453-1500, the Paramedics of Property Damage™. We are standing by to mitigate the loss and prevent further damage, and to provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. We have professional, well-trained technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from water, fire/smoke, mold, and other disasters.
Showing posts with label Scott Majeski. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Scott Majeski. Show all posts
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Review us on Angie's List
We use Angie's List to assess whether we're doing a good job keeping valued customers like you happy. Please complete your review at AngiesList.com/Review in order to grade our quality of work and customer service.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Thursday, February 17, 2011
10 Hidden Home Insurance Credits
When looking for ways to save on home insurance, many homeowners stop at a smoke detector, a security system and a multiline discount for insuring your home and vehicle with the same company.
http://finance.yahoo.com/insurance/article/112018/10-hidden-home-insurance-credits?mod=insurance-home
http://finance.yahoo.com/insurance/article/112018/10-hidden-home-insurance-credits?mod=insurance-home
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Property Emergency Services Company PuroClean Named one of Top 100 Franchises in the World by Entrepreneur Magazine
PuroClean has been recognized as one of the World’s Best and Fastest Growing Franchises making it a great low investment franchise opportunity.
Tamarac, FL (December 20, 2010) – One of the nation’s leading property restoration companies, PuroClean is #99 on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500®, known as the world’s first, best, and most comprehensive franchise ranking.
The 300+ unit property emergency services franchise moved up in the raking from the #148 spot in 2010. This year PuroClean also secured the #56 spot among the Fastest-Growing Franchises and #26 spot among Top Home-Based Franchises named by Entrepreneur.
According to Entrepreneur, all companies, regardless of size, are judged by the same criteria: objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation. The most important factors include financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of the system. They also consider the number of years a company has been in business and the length of time it's been franchising, startup costs, litigation, percentage of terminations, and whether the company provides financing. Financial data are analyzed by an independent CPA.
The objective factors are plugged into the exclusive Franchise 500® formula, with each eligible company receiving a cumulative score. The 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500®.
Tamarac, FL (December 20, 2010) – One of the nation’s leading property restoration companies, PuroClean is #99 on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500®, known as the world’s first, best, and most comprehensive franchise ranking.
The 300+ unit property emergency services franchise moved up in the raking from the #148 spot in 2010. This year PuroClean also secured the #56 spot among the Fastest-Growing Franchises and #26 spot among Top Home-Based Franchises named by Entrepreneur.
According to Entrepreneur, all companies, regardless of size, are judged by the same criteria: objective, quantifiable measures of a franchise operation. The most important factors include financial strength and stability, growth rate and size of the system. They also consider the number of years a company has been in business and the length of time it's been franchising, startup costs, litigation, percentage of terminations, and whether the company provides financing. Financial data are analyzed by an independent CPA.
The objective factors are plugged into the exclusive Franchise 500® formula, with each eligible company receiving a cumulative score. The 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores become the Franchise 500®.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
PuroClean Acquires In-House Expert in Catastrophe and Large Loss Operations
Tamarac, FL (October 29, 2010) - With more than 23 years of experience in the disaster recovery industry, Tom McGuire will play a critical new role in catapulting PuroClean to becoming the top choice for property emergency services across the nation. As the new Director of Catastrophe and Large Loss Operations, McGuire will work closely with PuroClean's recently formed Business Development Division to market the Network's ability to mobilize and help clients recover from large-scale disasters, that could require emergency water and fire damage restoration.
McGuire joins PuroClean after 16 years at Munters Corporation, a global leader in structural drying and emergency restoration services, where he served as the National Catastrophe Manager and Document Recovery Manager for North America. He was involved with managing recovery efforts for clients impacted by some of the most significant disasters in U.S. history, including the World Trade Center Bombing (1993), Hurricane Katrina, and the summer 2010 flooding of Nashville, TN.
"Tom is a natural leader and his ability to efficiently and effectively manage people and logistic in times of crisis make him a great fit for this position," said Lauren Reid, CEO and President of PuroClean. "He is an invaluable asset to our team and to the more than 300 franchise locations we support across the country."
In addition to securing large-scale emergency restoration jobs for PuroClean, McGuire will spearhead the ongoing education of the franchise network to prepare more and more offices for involvement in catastrophic clean up events. He will lead PuroClean's large-scale recovery efforts from the ground and empower franchise owners to grow their businesses by taking on more large loss projects including emergency water damage restoration and fire damage restoration.
"It was a difficult decision to leave a company where I've developed my skill set and career for the last 16 years, but after meeting with the team at PuroClean's home office, I knew that I'd be joining a group of terrific people that are truly dedicated to this line of work," said McGuire.
McGuire joins PuroClean after 16 years at Munters Corporation, a global leader in structural drying and emergency restoration services, where he served as the National Catastrophe Manager and Document Recovery Manager for North America. He was involved with managing recovery efforts for clients impacted by some of the most significant disasters in U.S. history, including the World Trade Center Bombing (1993), Hurricane Katrina, and the summer 2010 flooding of Nashville, TN.
"Tom is a natural leader and his ability to efficiently and effectively manage people and logistic in times of crisis make him a great fit for this position," said Lauren Reid, CEO and President of PuroClean. "He is an invaluable asset to our team and to the more than 300 franchise locations we support across the country."
In addition to securing large-scale emergency restoration jobs for PuroClean, McGuire will spearhead the ongoing education of the franchise network to prepare more and more offices for involvement in catastrophic clean up events. He will lead PuroClean's large-scale recovery efforts from the ground and empower franchise owners to grow their businesses by taking on more large loss projects including emergency water damage restoration and fire damage restoration.
"It was a difficult decision to leave a company where I've developed my skill set and career for the last 16 years, but after meeting with the team at PuroClean's home office, I knew that I'd be joining a group of terrific people that are truly dedicated to this line of work," said McGuire.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
The IAQ Video Network produces the first in a series of public outreach videos to educate the public about indoor air quality (IAQ) issues.
The IAQ Video network released the first in a series of educational videos meant to educate the general public about indoor air quality issues. The first video is entitled “Mold – A Known Asthma trigger” and is available for viewing today.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOdDfaYp9uE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOdDfaYp9uE
Friday, July 16, 2010
Top 5 Causes of Water Damage in the Home
1. Broken pipes & hoses – burst water main, aging old pipes, washing machine supply hoses and ice maker hoses that fail: Remedy – Buy the metal braided washing machine lines and copper pipes for ice makers. Have a plumber come in and inspect pipes in old homes and replace them with PVC if necessary. A few dollars spent now is worth thousands later!
2. Accidents: Overflowing bathtubs or broken toilets. The most common cause: children! Anyone reading this post who has small children can relate – probably with a smile and a story of your own. Remedy - Watch kids! Water is fascinating – especially when it's flowing over the tub and toilet rim!
3. Sewer back up: Presents a health hazard, smells bad, looks worse. Most common cause: Tree roots invading and clogging drain lines – trees like the readily available fertilizer and water! Remedy: Call your plumber and ask them about enzyme drain treatments that can be flushed on a monthly basis during Spring and Summer months when tree roots grow most prolifically.
4. Long term basement humidity. The most common cause: hydrostatic pressure and aging infrastructure. The simple solution: install a dehumidifier. However, that's a symptomatic fix and only works for a small amount of water. For large scale water intrusion, contact the experts to get an assessment. Once you receive the report, and ONLY then, contact a basement waterproofing expert and make sure you get THREE quotes.
5. Flash flooding: This is the rarest type of water intrusion in the home. It occurs when you least expect it and in areas that traditionally don't expect flooding. Remedy – Always purchase flood insurance if available!
Remember: With any kind of water damage in the home, time is of the essence! Drying the home in three days or less prevents growth of potentially dangerous mold.
2. Accidents: Overflowing bathtubs or broken toilets. The most common cause: children! Anyone reading this post who has small children can relate – probably with a smile and a story of your own. Remedy - Watch kids! Water is fascinating – especially when it's flowing over the tub and toilet rim!
3. Sewer back up: Presents a health hazard, smells bad, looks worse. Most common cause: Tree roots invading and clogging drain lines – trees like the readily available fertilizer and water! Remedy: Call your plumber and ask them about enzyme drain treatments that can be flushed on a monthly basis during Spring and Summer months when tree roots grow most prolifically.
4. Long term basement humidity. The most common cause: hydrostatic pressure and aging infrastructure. The simple solution: install a dehumidifier. However, that's a symptomatic fix and only works for a small amount of water. For large scale water intrusion, contact the experts to get an assessment. Once you receive the report, and ONLY then, contact a basement waterproofing expert and make sure you get THREE quotes.
5. Flash flooding: This is the rarest type of water intrusion in the home. It occurs when you least expect it and in areas that traditionally don't expect flooding. Remedy – Always purchase flood insurance if available!
Remember: With any kind of water damage in the home, time is of the essence! Drying the home in three days or less prevents growth of potentially dangerous mold.
Monday, July 12, 2010
8 Tips to Prevent Mold Growth in the Basement
1. Keep the humidity levels in check: Ideal humidity levels in your basement should be below 45% To do this, use a dehumidifier.
2. Do not grow plants inside the basement.
3. Keep your basement clutter free! Clutter disrupts the free flow of air in your basement and increases humidity - creating the perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Use only plastic storage boxes&bins. Cardboard provides the perfect growth medium for mold!
5. Say ‘No' to wood - Make sure that you are not storing wood in your basement. Wood makes for an ideal habitat for the mold to grow.
6. Use an exhaust fan to vent out and stale and humid air and let fresh air in.
7. Insulate water pipes - cold water pipes cause condensation of moisture on the exterior of the pipes .
8. Use extensions to drain gutter water away from the foundation of the house
.
2. Do not grow plants inside the basement.
3. Keep your basement clutter free! Clutter disrupts the free flow of air in your basement and increases humidity - creating the perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Use only plastic storage boxes&bins. Cardboard provides the perfect growth medium for mold!
5. Say ‘No' to wood - Make sure that you are not storing wood in your basement. Wood makes for an ideal habitat for the mold to grow.
6. Use an exhaust fan to vent out and stale and humid air and let fresh air in.
7. Insulate water pipes - cold water pipes cause condensation of moisture on the exterior of the pipes .
8. Use extensions to drain gutter water away from the foundation of the house
.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Tips to Reduce Losses from Water and Storm Damage
Water damage is a real threat for property owners. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute in the last year, 22 per 1,000 households have entered a claim for water related damage. Water damage can often result from weather, such as storms or melting snow, or more often, from common household malfunctions such as pipe leaks, washing machine malfunctions or other plumbing problems.
Follow these guidelines to help minimize the loss and prevent further damage:
Insurance
> Call your agent.
> Take photographs of the damage.
> Keep all receipts from hotel stays, home repair materials, etc.
Plumbing
> Check pipes on well pumps and irrigation systems annually.
> If sewage is backing up in the shower or under the toilet, your whole system is backed up. Call a professional and don’t use other sinks or toilets.
Roofing
> If the neighbor’s roof is missing shingles after a storm, you can assume that yours probably is also missing shigles.
> If it is safe to do so and only a few shingles are gone, try to cover the area with a plastic garbage bag.
> If it is safe to do so and you have a large area of ripped tar paper or wood, cover it with a tarpaulin.
> Call a roofer immediately.
Electric
> Most damage to electrical systems comes from water.
> Appliances exposed to water should be serviced before being used again.
> Check for sparks or frayed wires if wires are exposed call an electrician and do not turn on the power.
> If it appears that water has infiltrated your breaker box, call an electrician.
> Avoid fallen and dangling wires.
> If a limb has fallen on a power line, turn off the power and call the utility company.
> If a fallen limb touches your property do not attempt to clear them as they may be tangled in power lines. Call an electrician and a tree service company.
Flooding (Take these steps to minimize damage before the restoration professional arrives.)
> Throw out all food, including canned goods, medicines and cosmetics that have been touched by flood water.
> Keep a photographic inventory of anything that must be thrown out.
> Don’t take pets into a flooded area and never let them drink standing flood water.
Miscellaneous
> Turn on air conditioner if damage occurs in summer.
> Move valuable paintings, art objects and photos to a safe, dry place.
> Open closet doors, furniture drawers and luggage to aid in drying.
> Remove any wet fabrics and dry immediately.
> Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
> Stay out of any rooms where the ceiling is sagging from trapped water.
> Turn off the breaker before unplugging appliances.
Follow these guidelines to help minimize the loss and prevent further damage:
Insurance
> Call your agent.
> Take photographs of the damage.
> Keep all receipts from hotel stays, home repair materials, etc.
Plumbing
> Check pipes on well pumps and irrigation systems annually.
> If sewage is backing up in the shower or under the toilet, your whole system is backed up. Call a professional and don’t use other sinks or toilets.
Roofing
> If the neighbor’s roof is missing shingles after a storm, you can assume that yours probably is also missing shigles.
> If it is safe to do so and only a few shingles are gone, try to cover the area with a plastic garbage bag.
> If it is safe to do so and you have a large area of ripped tar paper or wood, cover it with a tarpaulin.
> Call a roofer immediately.
Electric
> Most damage to electrical systems comes from water.
> Appliances exposed to water should be serviced before being used again.
> Check for sparks or frayed wires if wires are exposed call an electrician and do not turn on the power.
> If it appears that water has infiltrated your breaker box, call an electrician.
> Avoid fallen and dangling wires.
> If a limb has fallen on a power line, turn off the power and call the utility company.
> If a fallen limb touches your property do not attempt to clear them as they may be tangled in power lines. Call an electrician and a tree service company.
Flooding (Take these steps to minimize damage before the restoration professional arrives.)
> Throw out all food, including canned goods, medicines and cosmetics that have been touched by flood water.
> Keep a photographic inventory of anything that must be thrown out.
> Don’t take pets into a flooded area and never let them drink standing flood water.
Miscellaneous
> Turn on air conditioner if damage occurs in summer.
> Move valuable paintings, art objects and photos to a safe, dry place.
> Open closet doors, furniture drawers and luggage to aid in drying.
> Remove any wet fabrics and dry immediately.
> Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
> Stay out of any rooms where the ceiling is sagging from trapped water.
> Turn off the breaker before unplugging appliances.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Untreated Water Damage to a Property Can Lead to Mold Hazards & Health Concerns
Water damage is any damage done because of water. You can even refer to water spilled on your handwritten notebook as water damage, if the content in the book was damaged or destroyed.
Almost everyone has faced water damage at sometime. Water damage to a property is caused by so many reasons; it could be because of leaking roofs, leaking pipes, leaking faucets, floods, storms and rains.
With so many causes of water damage, these require adequate care to be taken to avoid the water damage occurring in your residence or business. Your plumbing system should be checked on an annual basis. Have a licensed plumber check your sump pump, lift pump, battery back-up system, and your sewer system that takes water from your home or business to the outside sewage system.
Inevitably, water damage seems to creep its way into people's lives and properties at some point in time. Water tends to create major damage to anything that is in its way. Carpets, books, wood, electronics, almost everything we have inside a home or office has the potential to get damaged by water. Water damage can be managed if the property owner takes action in a timely manner.
PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists specializes in restoration after water damage and provides emergency services; it is PuroClean's responsibility to dry, clean the premises, and also leaving it mold free. Being careful and prompt is what is required when controlling water damage and protecting your property and possessions from the potential effects of water damage.
In the past mold damage was a covered insurance loss when it resulted from a covered peril, such as a broken pipe, a storm, or fire suppression efforts, but not when it occurs gradually over time due to wear and tear, or after untended to water damage.
Public awareness and scientific knowledge of the health hazards of mold have
increased dramatically over the past several years. Techniques for cleaning mold have also become more sophisticated and can be expensive. Today, most insurance companies do not cover mold claims under existing policies and are rewriting their policies to exclude all coverage for mold, regardless of origin.
The best medicine for mold is prevention. If your property sustained recent water damage, it is vital to have the water removed and the structure dried immediately to prevent mold from growing. Our system is designed to remove moisture from your building before mold can begin to grow. Our emergency response team will help determine the cause, the best method of removal, and the necessary steps to help prevent it from recurring.
PuroClean works with Environmental Hygienists and Laboratories in an effort to protect you and your family from potentially dangerous mold situations. If mold is detected, your first step is to call professionals like PuroClean who know how to safely and completely deal with mold. PuroClean has:
> Inspection & Testing Procedures & Tools
> Professional Drying with the Best Equipment
> Mold Remediation with Customer Satisfaction Guarantee
> Professional Deodorization
> Cleaning & Sanitation of Structure, Fixtures & Contents
> Containment and Removal in Affected Area
> HEPA Negative Air Filtration and Vacuuming
Almost everyone has faced water damage at sometime. Water damage to a property is caused by so many reasons; it could be because of leaking roofs, leaking pipes, leaking faucets, floods, storms and rains.
With so many causes of water damage, these require adequate care to be taken to avoid the water damage occurring in your residence or business. Your plumbing system should be checked on an annual basis. Have a licensed plumber check your sump pump, lift pump, battery back-up system, and your sewer system that takes water from your home or business to the outside sewage system.
Inevitably, water damage seems to creep its way into people's lives and properties at some point in time. Water tends to create major damage to anything that is in its way. Carpets, books, wood, electronics, almost everything we have inside a home or office has the potential to get damaged by water. Water damage can be managed if the property owner takes action in a timely manner.
PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists specializes in restoration after water damage and provides emergency services; it is PuroClean's responsibility to dry, clean the premises, and also leaving it mold free. Being careful and prompt is what is required when controlling water damage and protecting your property and possessions from the potential effects of water damage.
In the past mold damage was a covered insurance loss when it resulted from a covered peril, such as a broken pipe, a storm, or fire suppression efforts, but not when it occurs gradually over time due to wear and tear, or after untended to water damage.
Public awareness and scientific knowledge of the health hazards of mold have
increased dramatically over the past several years. Techniques for cleaning mold have also become more sophisticated and can be expensive. Today, most insurance companies do not cover mold claims under existing policies and are rewriting their policies to exclude all coverage for mold, regardless of origin.
The best medicine for mold is prevention. If your property sustained recent water damage, it is vital to have the water removed and the structure dried immediately to prevent mold from growing. Our system is designed to remove moisture from your building before mold can begin to grow. Our emergency response team will help determine the cause, the best method of removal, and the necessary steps to help prevent it from recurring.
PuroClean works with Environmental Hygienists and Laboratories in an effort to protect you and your family from potentially dangerous mold situations. If mold is detected, your first step is to call professionals like PuroClean who know how to safely and completely deal with mold. PuroClean has:
> Inspection & Testing Procedures & Tools
> Professional Drying with the Best Equipment
> Mold Remediation with Customer Satisfaction Guarantee
> Professional Deodorization
> Cleaning & Sanitation of Structure, Fixtures & Contents
> Containment and Removal in Affected Area
> HEPA Negative Air Filtration and Vacuuming
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
Water Damage Restoration
The primary function of a restoration contractor that performs emergency mitigation services is to handle the claim professionally, expeditiously, and cost effectively. Professional restorative contractors should understand what it means to be professional when conducting their business. They should also understand the importance of prompt response and quick action to limit the scope of the loss. However, a difficult area to institute and control is how to be cost ef-fective. This is especially true when customers are making demands and expecting quick action concerning what is happening to their home and belongings.
Water damage mitigation that is performed by using the PuroClean QuickDry System (PQDS), focuses not only on stabilizing and reducing further damage, but also includes reducing unnecessary services that increase direct costs. Direct costs are labor, time, and materials that contribute directly to the total dollar amount of sustained damage. The PQDS reduces that total dollar volume by enacting tested and proven procedures while performing water damage mitigation services.
Many water mitigators use a light wand extraction which removes some water and may involve moving all or half of the furniture from a room so that the carpet can be pulled back far enough to remove the cushion (pad). The furniture has to be re-moved from the room so that air fans can be placed under the carpet in a corner to “float” the carpet. The concept of floating the carpet with air makes the room difficult, if not impossible, to occupy. This is a major problem in bedrooms where headboards, footboards, and rails need disassembling, and mattresses and box springs need to be carried into a dry, unaffected area. That is, if any dry areas ex-ist. Under the PQDS, furniture in any affected room only needs to be manipulated enough to extract the water. Furniture is then placed on blocks and tabs to prevent the transfer of furniture stain or the development of rust marks. The time and labor saved in performing this function alone is substantial, espe-cially if multiple rooms are involved.
These PQDS procedures include a new extraction technology that enables water to be removed from the carpet and cushion (pad), simultaneously without disengagement of the installation. This extraction removes 90 to 95% of the total liquid moisture available in the carpet and pad. By removing this quantity of liquid moisture, less time is required to evaporate any remaining moisture by airflow and dehumidification. Most projects are completed on the average within three days.
Removing wet carpet from the installation is risky business. Carpets that are totally saturated are more easily damaged when wet than when they are dry. This is due to the fact that the latex binder between the primary and secondary backings is 50% weaker when saturated with water. Even with the best intentions, removing the carpet tension with a knee kicker or pulling the carpet from the tack strip can often cause rips or tears.
If the carpet is not disengaged, the pad is not removed, and the furniture is minimally disrupted, then the entire cost of new cushion, professional power stretched installation, and furniture remanipulation is not required. This results in a tremen-dous direct cost reduction.
The aggravation, frustration, and total inconvenience of the old process must also be considered as an indirect cost reduction. A non-monetary form of indirect cost is the price that one pays in stress and duress when processing a claim incorrectly which creates fear, suspicion, and distrust on the part of the customer and inevitably the insurance adjuster. The PQDS takes these issues and other factors into consideration when mitigat-ing a water loss.
Structurally, the PQDS employs many cost effective philosophies, for example, drying drywall in place. Many schools originally taught that any initial wicking of water into drywall specifically dictated the removal of baseboard molding, both vinyl and wood, as a necessity to dry the lower wall area. Technicians went so far as to poke holes in the wallboard to increase evaporation and ventilation. Some even sprayed water based antimicrobials into the holes increasing the wetness factor. These actions dictated, providing that the area dried properly, that new baseboards will need to be installed and that the entire room or rooms will require painting to correct the damage done to the surface during the demolition.
The PQDS does not initially require removing baseboards when wetness is detected. PuroClean structural dryers are deployed forcing air directly towards the wet walls drying the area in most cases without removing the molding. This direct airflow against the lower wall dries the baseboard, the wallboard, and the framing structure. Many types of insulation, for example, fiberglass batt, will dry as well. Baseboard molding removal would be necessary only if cellulose or rock wool insulation were present. These materials lose loft and respective R value when wet and compressed. Replacement is war-ranted for these materials.
When comparing the old drying procedure and philosophy to the new PuroClean QuickDry System, there is no contest. The direct cost effective savings as well as the indirect time and incon-venience reductions are obvious. Call your local PuroClean office to take advantage of the PuroClean QuickDry System to help reduce your costs when processing water damage losses today.
Water damage mitigation that is performed by using the PuroClean QuickDry System (PQDS), focuses not only on stabilizing and reducing further damage, but also includes reducing unnecessary services that increase direct costs. Direct costs are labor, time, and materials that contribute directly to the total dollar amount of sustained damage. The PQDS reduces that total dollar volume by enacting tested and proven procedures while performing water damage mitigation services.
Many water mitigators use a light wand extraction which removes some water and may involve moving all or half of the furniture from a room so that the carpet can be pulled back far enough to remove the cushion (pad). The furniture has to be re-moved from the room so that air fans can be placed under the carpet in a corner to “float” the carpet. The concept of floating the carpet with air makes the room difficult, if not impossible, to occupy. This is a major problem in bedrooms where headboards, footboards, and rails need disassembling, and mattresses and box springs need to be carried into a dry, unaffected area. That is, if any dry areas ex-ist. Under the PQDS, furniture in any affected room only needs to be manipulated enough to extract the water. Furniture is then placed on blocks and tabs to prevent the transfer of furniture stain or the development of rust marks. The time and labor saved in performing this function alone is substantial, espe-cially if multiple rooms are involved.
These PQDS procedures include a new extraction technology that enables water to be removed from the carpet and cushion (pad), simultaneously without disengagement of the installation. This extraction removes 90 to 95% of the total liquid moisture available in the carpet and pad. By removing this quantity of liquid moisture, less time is required to evaporate any remaining moisture by airflow and dehumidification. Most projects are completed on the average within three days.
Removing wet carpet from the installation is risky business. Carpets that are totally saturated are more easily damaged when wet than when they are dry. This is due to the fact that the latex binder between the primary and secondary backings is 50% weaker when saturated with water. Even with the best intentions, removing the carpet tension with a knee kicker or pulling the carpet from the tack strip can often cause rips or tears.
If the carpet is not disengaged, the pad is not removed, and the furniture is minimally disrupted, then the entire cost of new cushion, professional power stretched installation, and furniture remanipulation is not required. This results in a tremen-dous direct cost reduction.
The aggravation, frustration, and total inconvenience of the old process must also be considered as an indirect cost reduction. A non-monetary form of indirect cost is the price that one pays in stress and duress when processing a claim incorrectly which creates fear, suspicion, and distrust on the part of the customer and inevitably the insurance adjuster. The PQDS takes these issues and other factors into consideration when mitigat-ing a water loss.
Structurally, the PQDS employs many cost effective philosophies, for example, drying drywall in place. Many schools originally taught that any initial wicking of water into drywall specifically dictated the removal of baseboard molding, both vinyl and wood, as a necessity to dry the lower wall area. Technicians went so far as to poke holes in the wallboard to increase evaporation and ventilation. Some even sprayed water based antimicrobials into the holes increasing the wetness factor. These actions dictated, providing that the area dried properly, that new baseboards will need to be installed and that the entire room or rooms will require painting to correct the damage done to the surface during the demolition.
The PQDS does not initially require removing baseboards when wetness is detected. PuroClean structural dryers are deployed forcing air directly towards the wet walls drying the area in most cases without removing the molding. This direct airflow against the lower wall dries the baseboard, the wallboard, and the framing structure. Many types of insulation, for example, fiberglass batt, will dry as well. Baseboard molding removal would be necessary only if cellulose or rock wool insulation were present. These materials lose loft and respective R value when wet and compressed. Replacement is war-ranted for these materials.
When comparing the old drying procedure and philosophy to the new PuroClean QuickDry System, there is no contest. The direct cost effective savings as well as the indirect time and incon-venience reductions are obvious. Call your local PuroClean office to take advantage of the PuroClean QuickDry System to help reduce your costs when processing water damage losses today.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
PuroClean’s New CEO Builds on Momentum; Prepares Fast-Growing Franchise for the "Big Leagues".
FranchiseWorks.com | Property Damage Restoration Franchise PuroClean’s New CEO Builds on Momentum; Prepares Fast-Growing Franchise for the "Big Leagues". Respected Restoration Industry Veteran Lauren Reid Set to Take Nation’s "Paramedics of Property Damage" to New Level.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL (February 2010) – Following a record-setting year for franchise growth and revenue, PuroClean, the nation’s fastest growing emergency services and property damage restoration franchise, took another major step forward with the appointment of Lauren John Reid to CEO.
Reid, a noted veteran with a track record of success in the restoration industry, has a clear vision and will work with the Leadership Team to develop a strategic plan to make PuroClean the No. 1 choice of insurance companies for property damage emergency mitigation services for homes and commercial businesses, as well as large-scale natural disaster and catastrophic clean up projects.
His impressive resume includes 17 years at Munters Corporation, Moisture Control Service (MCS) Division, a global leader in structural drying and emergency restoration services. During his tenure at MCS, Reid worked with Global and Regional Insurance firms, Government and Fortune 500 clients as a partner in the restoration and mitigation process. He was involved with numerous high-profile water damage and restoration projects, including the firm’s 120 projects in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
“I was attracted to PuroClean by their phenomenal leadership team and a solid foundation of best practices in franchising, training and operations,” Reid said. “They have a strong and growing group of eager, young franchisees looking to make their mark on the industry.”
Company founder Rory O’Dwyer said Reid possesses the ideal skill set, leadership qualities and restoration industry experience to help franchisees make that industry “mark” – sooner than later.
“Reid knows exactly where to focus our time and capital investments to take us where we need to be,” O’Dwyer said. “That includes solidifying best practices, standardizing training and operations, and preparing our franchisees to demonstrate to the insurance industry that they are equipped to handle major national accounts and disaster recovery.”
Last year alone, PuroClean opened 89 new damage restoration franchise locations and reported more than $90 million in revenues, up from $68 million in 2008. Most impressive were sales gains at existing franchise locations, up an astounding 31 percent from 2008 to 2009. The company also debuted a new Canadian headquarters, opened its 300th franchise location and achieved the highest customer experience performance rating in the industry, with a 93 percent Net Promoter Score®.
Reid joins PuroClean as the company embarks on another major step, the construction of an Applied Structural Drying (ASD) Demonstration Facility. The new facility, set for completion later this year, will include a classroom, as well as a state-of-the-science flood house, where all franchise owners and their employees will receive practical application of IICRC guidelines in applied structural drying and smoke and soot remediation, within a controlled environment. PuroClean Academy, the company’s official training school for franchise owners, has recently earned Approved School status from The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
Ft. Lauderdale, FL (February 2010) – Following a record-setting year for franchise growth and revenue, PuroClean, the nation’s fastest growing emergency services and property damage restoration franchise, took another major step forward with the appointment of Lauren John Reid to CEO.
Reid, a noted veteran with a track record of success in the restoration industry, has a clear vision and will work with the Leadership Team to develop a strategic plan to make PuroClean the No. 1 choice of insurance companies for property damage emergency mitigation services for homes and commercial businesses, as well as large-scale natural disaster and catastrophic clean up projects.
His impressive resume includes 17 years at Munters Corporation, Moisture Control Service (MCS) Division, a global leader in structural drying and emergency restoration services. During his tenure at MCS, Reid worked with Global and Regional Insurance firms, Government and Fortune 500 clients as a partner in the restoration and mitigation process. He was involved with numerous high-profile water damage and restoration projects, including the firm’s 120 projects in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
“I was attracted to PuroClean by their phenomenal leadership team and a solid foundation of best practices in franchising, training and operations,” Reid said. “They have a strong and growing group of eager, young franchisees looking to make their mark on the industry.”
Company founder Rory O’Dwyer said Reid possesses the ideal skill set, leadership qualities and restoration industry experience to help franchisees make that industry “mark” – sooner than later.
“Reid knows exactly where to focus our time and capital investments to take us where we need to be,” O’Dwyer said. “That includes solidifying best practices, standardizing training and operations, and preparing our franchisees to demonstrate to the insurance industry that they are equipped to handle major national accounts and disaster recovery.”
Last year alone, PuroClean opened 89 new damage restoration franchise locations and reported more than $90 million in revenues, up from $68 million in 2008. Most impressive were sales gains at existing franchise locations, up an astounding 31 percent from 2008 to 2009. The company also debuted a new Canadian headquarters, opened its 300th franchise location and achieved the highest customer experience performance rating in the industry, with a 93 percent Net Promoter Score®.
Reid joins PuroClean as the company embarks on another major step, the construction of an Applied Structural Drying (ASD) Demonstration Facility. The new facility, set for completion later this year, will include a classroom, as well as a state-of-the-science flood house, where all franchise owners and their employees will receive practical application of IICRC guidelines in applied structural drying and smoke and soot remediation, within a controlled environment. PuroClean Academy, the company’s official training school for franchise owners, has recently earned Approved School status from The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Safety During the Holiday Season
The Holiday Season is associated with family get-togethers, great family meals, and beautiful home decorations including lights, candles, and Christmas trees.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires, with Thanksgiving the peak day of the entire year. Nearly all cooking fires start with the ignition of food or cooking oil. Other items normally found in a kitchen help feed the fire - such as cabinets, paper, plastic, and curtains. In 2006, U.S. fire departments responded to 112,500 home structure fires. These fires caused nearly $7 billion in direct property damage. Cooking fires accounted for 40% of all reported home fires. Twelve percent of the fires occurred when something flammable was left too close to cooking equipment.
The CDC and the National Fire Protection Association recommend:
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking. If you must leave the kitchen for any reason, turn off the stovetop.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly. Remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you to check the food.
• Wear short, close fitting sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can easily catch fire.
• Never use water to extinguish a cooking fire.
• If oil starts to boil, remove it from the heat source. Simply lowering the heat will not reduce the temperature fast enough.
• Be careful not to overfill pots with oil. You need room in the pan to add food. Overflowing oil can easily catch fire.
• If oil catches fire, use an oven mitt to carefully slide a lid over the pan to smother the fire.
• If oil has overflowed and is burning, get everyone out of the house and call the fire department from outside.
• Keep towels, bags, plastic, and food packaging away from flame and heat.
• Never cook when under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
• Install smoke alarms if a home does not have them.
• Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas trees (both real and artificial) are the first items ignited in an estimated 300 reported home structure fires per year.
The U.S. Fire Administration offers the following fire safety tips for homeowners:
• When decorating, be sure to use only lights rated for indoor use.
• Replace any lights that have worn, frayed, or broken cords.
• Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving the home or going to bed.
• Keep live trees moist by watering daily. Do not purchase a tree that is dry.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source.
• Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles - dried out trees are highly flammable.
• Make sure artificial trees are fire retardant.
• Place the tree near an outlet to avoid running long extension cords.
• Do not burn a Christmas tree in a fireplace. They are practically explosive.
Candles around the home often invoke a warm holiday spirit, but they are a significant fire hazard - and a leading cause of residential fires! If you choose to set the mood with candles, use extreme caution.
The National Candle Association recommends:
• Always keep a burning candle within sight - never leave it unattended.
• Never burn a candle near anything that can catch fire.
• Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candles and place on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
• Make sure a candle is completely extinguished and is no longer glowing before leaving it.
• Never use a candle as a night light.
In the event a fire should occur, it is important for property owners to know what to do, what not to do, and who to contact once it is extinguished. PuroClean, known as The Paramedics of Property Damage™, is a professional mitigation company specializing in property remediation after a home or commercial structure is damaged by fire and smoke. Fire, along with the resulting smoke and soot, can rapidly harm household items - even after the fire has been extinguished. It is imperative to seek help immediately from a professional restoration company such as PuroClean to prevent further damage.
Regardless of the circumstances - dealing with fire/smoke damage, water damage, or mold remediation - call PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists at 312-453-1500. For all property damage situations, we are standing by. We will mitigate the loss to prevent further damage and will then provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. We have well-trained professional technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from water, fire, smoke, mold, and other disasters.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires, with Thanksgiving the peak day of the entire year. Nearly all cooking fires start with the ignition of food or cooking oil. Other items normally found in a kitchen help feed the fire - such as cabinets, paper, plastic, and curtains. In 2006, U.S. fire departments responded to 112,500 home structure fires. These fires caused nearly $7 billion in direct property damage. Cooking fires accounted for 40% of all reported home fires. Twelve percent of the fires occurred when something flammable was left too close to cooking equipment.
The CDC and the National Fire Protection Association recommend:
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking. If you must leave the kitchen for any reason, turn off the stovetop.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly. Remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you to check the food.
• Wear short, close fitting sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can easily catch fire.
• Never use water to extinguish a cooking fire.
• If oil starts to boil, remove it from the heat source. Simply lowering the heat will not reduce the temperature fast enough.
• Be careful not to overfill pots with oil. You need room in the pan to add food. Overflowing oil can easily catch fire.
• If oil catches fire, use an oven mitt to carefully slide a lid over the pan to smother the fire.
• If oil has overflowed and is burning, get everyone out of the house and call the fire department from outside.
• Keep towels, bags, plastic, and food packaging away from flame and heat.
• Never cook when under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
• Install smoke alarms if a home does not have them.
• Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas trees (both real and artificial) are the first items ignited in an estimated 300 reported home structure fires per year.
The U.S. Fire Administration offers the following fire safety tips for homeowners:
• When decorating, be sure to use only lights rated for indoor use.
• Replace any lights that have worn, frayed, or broken cords.
• Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving the home or going to bed.
• Keep live trees moist by watering daily. Do not purchase a tree that is dry.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source.
• Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles - dried out trees are highly flammable.
• Make sure artificial trees are fire retardant.
• Place the tree near an outlet to avoid running long extension cords.
• Do not burn a Christmas tree in a fireplace. They are practically explosive.
Candles around the home often invoke a warm holiday spirit, but they are a significant fire hazard - and a leading cause of residential fires! If you choose to set the mood with candles, use extreme caution.
The National Candle Association recommends:
• Always keep a burning candle within sight - never leave it unattended.
• Never burn a candle near anything that can catch fire.
• Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candles and place on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
• Make sure a candle is completely extinguished and is no longer glowing before leaving it.
• Never use a candle as a night light.
In the event a fire should occur, it is important for property owners to know what to do, what not to do, and who to contact once it is extinguished. PuroClean, known as The Paramedics of Property Damage™, is a professional mitigation company specializing in property remediation after a home or commercial structure is damaged by fire and smoke. Fire, along with the resulting smoke and soot, can rapidly harm household items - even after the fire has been extinguished. It is imperative to seek help immediately from a professional restoration company such as PuroClean to prevent further damage.
Regardless of the circumstances - dealing with fire/smoke damage, water damage, or mold remediation - call PuroClean Property Restoration Specialists at 312-453-1500. For all property damage situations, we are standing by. We will mitigate the loss to prevent further damage and will then provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. We have well-trained professional technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from water, fire, smoke, mold, and other disasters.
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