Commercial Water Mitigation in Brookline Is More Effective with SERVPRO’s Help

2/3/2023 (Permalink)

All you need is SERVPRO for all your water damage needs.

Professionals for Commercial Water Damage in Brookline

Water damage in a commercial building has an impact much more significant than what is felt at residential properties. The complexity of commercial water damage lies not just in the size of the building but also in how complex the mechanical systems are. The consequences are severe, including but not limited to disruption of the free movement of customers, employees, and goods and services, and conspicuously denting the business finances. When not handled immediately and with great expertise, things quickly get from bad to worse.

Refrain from letting your business suffer unnecessary damage since SERVPRO is just a phone call away. Our local team is a collection of highly experienced technologists certified by regulatory bodies to perform commercial water damage mitigation in Brookline under any conditions. SERVPRO is well-trained and equipped with cutting-edge technology to handle even the most difficult tasks.

Water damage at commercial properties can leave behind odors that might be unpleasant to the workers and customers, interfering with the usual business flow. To handle the odors, our SERVPRO team can use multiple products or equipment, depending on the specific situation and size of the damage. Some of the modes of deodorization that we use include:

• Wet fogging, by using Ultra low volume (ULV) foggers.
• Dry fogging, using a thermal fogger.
• Using hydroxyl generators to act on the odor-causing particles.
• Using high-velocity exhaust fans to ventilate the structure before and after deodorization. 

In addition, our SERVPRO team can help you pack out, inventory, and relocate contents in your commercial property to our facilities for restoration. We also offer specialist help restoring documents and contents affected by water damage to avoid the loss of vital business information and records.

Business owners handling water damage should contact SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline for help at (617) 903-5055. We have innovative protocols and technologies that make a water damage incident seem “Like it never even happened.”

Selecting the Best Commercial Fire Restoration Team in Brookline

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians have the training and experience needed for all commercial fire damage restoration services.

Brookline Businesses Need Prompt, Professional SERVPRO Fire Damage Restoration

Having fire damage within your commercial property is devastating. As a business owner, you need to know that you can handle the damage to possessions, structures, and water from putting out the flames. You need to call a professional restoration team fast so that you can limit the amount of downtime that you have. SERVPRO has all bases covered, from debris removal and water extraction to repair and odor control. We always make it “Like it never even happened.”

With our commercial fire restoration in Brookline, we give you workable timelines for rebuilding and repair so that you know what you are up against. When hiring someone for the task, we suggest that you ask yourself the following questions:

• What types of restoration services does the company provide? SERVPRO gets you through the entire process: initial inspection, tarping and board-up services, soot and smoke cleanup, odor control, and water removal services.
• Does the company work outside regular business hours? SERVPRO is available 24/7, 365 days a year, so you have a restoration team ready to get started as soon as possible.
• Will all fire damage get assessed right away? Once first responders give our crew the green light, a full inspection and assessment get done. We determine the level of fire damage, the types of soiling and residue present, and all possible structural and environmental hazards.
• Is the company certified to handle fire and water restorations? SERVPRO is fully IICRC-certified - ready to address all water damage, charring, smoke damage, and everything your commercial property needs to put the fire behind you and get back to business. 

Knowing you have hired the best team to take on your commercial fire restoration needs is nothing like knowing. Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline when you need us at (617) 903-5055 or request help online at your earliest convenience. Ask us about developing your Emergency READY Plan (ERP)!

Resources Necessary for Water Removal in Brookline Premises

7/10/2022 (Permalink)

Getting rid of water from your Brookline property is a difficult task. SERVPRO professionals know how to get the job done efficiently. Call us 24/7.

SERVPRO Is Well Equipped for Water Removal in Brookline

Before water leaks into your Brookline premises, you may not consider removal a complicated process. Once the incident occurs, you must figure out how to scoop away gallons of water and dry, vast wet areas within a limited period. Seeking professional assistance can help you manage water removal conveniently.

The main determinant of the resources needed for water removal from your Brookline premises is the amount spilled. The materials affected may also have an impact. In case there is a significant percentage of porous materials like upholstery and carpets affected by the spill, removal is more challenging compared to a case where water spreads over tiled surfaces.

Necessary water removal equipment

• Pumps
• Vacuum extractors
• Humidity control

Depending on the prevalent conditions, various pumps, including submersible and high-speed varieties, can help evacuate water from a structure. A pump with sufficient head capacity is essential for a depressed structure section, such as a parking garage. High-speed pumps handle such removal conveniently. In most cases, vacuum extractors are sufficient since the standing water is not deep enough to necessitate a pump. Our SERVPRO teams are equipped with portable and truck-mounted extractors to facilitate quick removal.

The moisture absorbed by materials

A significant percentage of the water that leaks into your premises escapes into porous and semi-porous materials. Although removing high volumes of stagnant water may seem daunting, it pales compared to the effort needed to dry wet materials. Extraction only requires sufficient vacuum lift but drying wet materials in good time requires manipulation of several factors simultaneously.

Main factors to manipulate

• Air movements 
• Air temperature
• Humidity levels

Drying is only possible if there is sustained evaporation. Unfortunately, as the moisture evaporates from wet materials into the air, humidity levels increase, and once the air is saturated, drying stops. Supplying a steady stream of dry air across damp surfaces facilitates constant removal of the absorbed water. Our SERVPRO teams set up several units of air movers and dehumidifiers for sustained drying.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline can manage water removal conveniently from your business premises. You can reach us at (617) 903-5055.

Commercial Fire and Smoke Removal in Allston Requires a Swift Response

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

For any type of fire damage in your property you can count on SERVPRO to help.

Hire SERVPRO for Commercial Fire and Smoke Removal in Allston

I have fire damage in my office building and need fire restoration services. Which firm can I trust to restore it?

You can hire SERVPRO to perform commercial fire and smoke removal on your Allston property. Our certified and licensed restorers have extensive experience in commercial fire, soot, and smoke removal. You can be sure that we can quickly complete the fire damage repair process with precision and minimal disruption to foot traffic. We can do the following to restore your property: 

• Thorough inspection
• Debris removal
• Water removal and drying 
• Removal of smoke residues
• Deodorization
• Repair and rebuild

Thorough Inspection

We can complete a walk-through of the building to evaluate the fire and smoke damage. After completing the walk-through, our SERVPRO technicians can identify your priorities and determine the best approach to repairing your property. 

Debris Removal

We can test and evaluate ruined materials to determine which ones are salvageable or unsalvageable. Our SERVPRO fire and smoke restoration experts can remove the damaged materials. 

Water Removal and Drying

Our team can use water extractors to remove the water from fire extinguishing efforts. We can also place air movies and dehumidifiers in the affected area to eliminate moisture. Air movers and dehumidifiers work together to dry a structure effectively. 

Removal of Smoke Residues

Smoke residues can discolor the walls and tarnish metal structures and contents. We can use a vacuum device to eliminate particulate soiling and light debris. We often perform vacuuming before using other cleaning methods to eradicate excess residues. Our team can also use dry cleaning sponges to remove smoke residues from affected surfaces. 

Deodorization

Our SERVPRO technicians can thermal fog your commercial property with odor-eliminating products. We can also use HEPA air scrubbers to assist in the odor-removal process. 

Repair and Rebuild

We can perform the repairs required to return your property to its pre-damaged state. This may include replacing drywall, replacing or repairing flooring, and painting. 

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline can help you handle fire and smoke damage on your commercial property. Our emergency helpline is (617) 903-5055. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

How to Deal with Commercial Mold Damage in a Brookline Hotel

5/20/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial mold damage in Brookline needs the help of SERVPRO. We have the manpower and equipment for every size disaster.

Trust SERVPRO to Handle the Commercial Mold Damage in Your Brookline Hotel

When staying in a hotel, travelers expect clean, refreshing rooms. They do not expect mold damage. You must keep a safe, clean, and mold-free hotel space as a hotel owner.

SERVPRO can assist you in handling the commercial mold damage in your Brookline hotel to avoid losing your revenue stream. Mold problems in hotels can occur because of drastic changes in the indoor environment.

The temperature changes can cause mold infestation by creating condensation on building materials like wood and drywall.

SERVPRO can remediate the mold by taking these steps:

• Identifying and eliminating the moisture source.
• Remediating HVAC systems.
• Removing and remediating contaminated contents.
• Removing and disposing of contaminated porous materials.
• Disposing of contaminated materials.
• Cleaning.

Identifying and eliminating the moisture source

This step can involve structural modifications or repairs, like increasing ventilation with air movers and adding insulation. Once we address the moisture source, we can dry all the affected areas using dehumidifying equipment.

Remediating HVAC systems

During structural remediation, our team may deactivate or seal off the HVAC system to reduce the dispersal of mold spores and prevent contamination. We can remediate mold-contaminated HVAC systems.

Removing and remediating contaminated contents

We can remove the non-contaminated and harmful contents from the affected areas. Our team can discard or cleanse the soiled contents using suitable methods.

Removing and disposing of contaminated porous materials

We can use HEPA vacuums to decontaminate dry, porous materials infused with mold spores or dust only. If the materials have been wet for a lengthy period, we can remove and discard them. Our SERVPRO team can surface clean semi-porous materials with mold growth through scrubbing, scraping, and HEPA vacuuming.

Cleaning

After removing the mold-contaminated materials and drying your hotel’s interior, our SERVPRO team can remove visible traces of debris and dust from the remediation process using HEPA vacuum cleaners and damp wiping.

To deal with commercial mold damage in your hotel, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline for help at (617) 903-5055.

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Brookline Requires Experts

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial fire damage restoration service by SERVPRO are second to none. We will be on-site within 4 hours. We are here to help.

Trust SERVPRO for Commercial Fire Damage Restoration in Brookline

A fire at your commercial property can cause immense losses to materials, structural damage, high repair costs, and halting the normal functioning of the businesses in it. This ignition can cause financial losses, which may mean a long recovery time.

Fire damage requires a rapid response. SERVPRO has a team of dedicated, well-trained technicians to help you perform commercial fire damage restoration in your Brookline property. Our fire repair process is as outlined below:

• Damage assessment
• Minimizing the damage
• Removing soot, debris, and ruined materials
• Water extraction and drying
• Cleaning and deodorizing

Damage Assessment

We confirm that the property is safe for entry and repairs when we get on-site by assessing the structural damage. The assessment also enables us to develop a suitable restoration plan.

Minimizing the damage

Our SERVPRO team can tarp the roof if it has openings and board up torn walls and windows to protect the property from weather elements and vandalism.

Removing soot, debris, and ruined materials

We can remove all the soot and debris left behind to minimize airborne odors and improve air quality inside the building. Our SERVPRO technicians can remove the materials that have been damaged beyond repair and discard them appropriately.

Water extraction and drying

We can use our powerful pumps to remove the water left by fire suppression systems and fire departments out of the building and then use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the affected areas. We manipulate humidity levels and temperature to produce optimal drying conditions without causing secondary destruction.

Cleaning and deodorizing

We can restore the salvageable materials, including furnishings, through effective cleaning and replace those damaged beyond repair. Our SERVPRO team can then use Ultra Low Volume (ULV) misters to deodorize your property. This equipment atomizes liquid deodorizing agents, mainly water-based agents, to produce a fine mist. The misters generate deodorant particles of about 20 to 60 microns, small enough to get into most areas with odor-causing residues.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline has expertise in offering commercial fire cleanup and  restoration. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster. Contact us at (617) 903-5055.

Commercial HVAC System

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

If you need help call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline.

Massachusetts winters can be very brutal. If your commercial building is not ready it can be very expensive for you because there are so many things that can wrong and disrupt business. Below are simple things you can do to keep your HVAC system and your business running all winter long.

Change filters

It is highly recommended that you change your filters before a peak season like summer and winter. This is because your system has a greater demand at these times. Make sure you are changing filters regularly (1-6 months) to avoid getting pollutants and mold into the air. If you do not, it can cause health effects to your employees and those entering your premise. If you smell musty odors in any area of your building make sure you get the air quality sampled to rule out the possible growth and spread of mold. Depending on the size and location of your HVAC system it may be better to hire someone to help change the filter for you.

Inspect and clean your system

Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of your system if it is being done correctly. You can contract an experienced professional to help or have a plan in place to maintain on your own. What is important is that you always have a good idea of the current condition of your system and when possible services will be needed.

Keep a contact list of local service providers who can help repair your system in the event of a mal function. This will help save you time when something happens, it eventually will happen. Your preparation now can help save you hundreds in the future!

Cleaning and Restoration Solutions for Businesses | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready to have the cleanest business in town? Contact SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline for all your cleaning needs.

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline has been providing disaster recovery services for our residents for many years. Did you know we also provide restoration from storm damage, fire damage, flood damage and mold remediation for business owners?

That’s right! Besides providing these services for homeowners, we also provide them to commercial enterprises. And the services don’t end there—we also provide commercial cleans.

Many commercial businesses usually have a higher level of cleaning requirements because customers and suppliers use their facilities as well as their employees. Knowing your business has been cleaned at the highest level can give you peace of mind knowing you have provided a clean and sanitized work environment for all that use it.

SERVPRO Custom Business Solutions

Satisfying your customers is your business—ours is making your business sparkle for them. We provide professional cleaning and sanitization services for all types of businesses:

Community grocers, as well as national chain stores, strip malls and other business locations. Facility cleanliness is our mission, whether you’re the mom-and-pop store on the corner or a mega-chain big-box retailer. We provide a superior level of cleanliness to all clients.

Academic institutions including preschool through universities and everything in between. Faculty and student cleaning is inadequate, according to a recent study. It appears that only half of the bacteria is cleared from desks. The number get even worse if items aren’t cleaned daily.

Any healthcare facility, including hospitals, assisted living centers and even hospice centers. Cleanliness in these institutions is critical and must be done properly and often. We can make sure your medical facilities are cleaned above CDC standards.

Bowling alleys, night clubs, recreational facilities and other entertainment venues. Recreational facilities require a high level of cleaning due to the number of people that utilize these facilities. We can make your venue sparkle.

Food service facilities, warehouses and manufacturing facilities. Cleanliness in these facilities is crucial for the safety of their customers. Let us handle the cleaning so you can focus on the food.

Office buildings to high rises, commercial complexes to property management companies. SERVPRO of Buffalo/Tonawanda provides the best environmental care and sanitation service for their clients.

Did you know workplaces lose an outrageous $260 billion per year due to the lost productivity that comes from sick days and lost productivity? Let SERVPRO help you turn the tide of workplace germs and ensure a healthy, clean environment for your teams and customers.

When you’re ready to have the cleanest business in town, we’re ready to help. Contact your local SERVPRO to get the pros working on the cleaning so you can work on the work.

Your Business and Changing Seasons

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Being prepared is the best thing you can do for your business.

If you are a Boston resident or property owner you know that the winter is unpredictable. Some years we barely get snow and the temperatures are fairly mild. While other years it is frigid with howling winds and never ending snow storms.

No matter what kind of winter is in the cards for us this year, as a property owner you should be prepared. You should not wait until winter is upon us to prepare your property. The time is now, before the fall! During this time you should be making repairs and doing preventative maintenance.

Some areas to consider:

Gutters

Clean and repair the gutter before the temperature drops. Seal leaking caps and if you can add a gutter cover to prevent debris build up. Consider investing in a gutter heating cable. This will help prevent ice dams. 

Windows and walk ways

Check your windows to make sure there are not any air leaks or excessive condensation build up. Most windows are believed to have a life cycle of 20yrs check your windows to ensure they are not at or nearing the end of their cycle. Check your walk way for any major cracks that will need to be repaired.  Pay attention to seams as well.

Boiler Room

Boilers should be serviced once a year by an engineer. The most important part of winterizing is ensuring buildings boiler will operate throughout the long winter. Ensure the pipes are well insulated as extreme cold weather can cause the boiler to shut off - which can result in frozen pipes.

HVAC

Check and replace air filters if necessary. Turn your system on to ensure it is functioning properly. Like a car idleness is not good. Run the heating unit a few weeks before temperatures start to drop to keep it working properly.

Water faucets and water lines

Drain outdoor water faucets and water lines to make sure there is no sitting water. If there is water in the water lines it can freeze in cold temperatures and cause damage to the water line and faucets.

Roof

Roofs typically have a 12 year life span. You can usually do a visual test of your roof to get a better idea of its current condition. Repair or replace any missing shingles. An added benefit of updating your roof is an insurance discount for newly replaced roof!

Fix crack in concrete and asphalt

Water is easily absorbed by concrete given the nature of the materials. If there are large cracks make sure you fill them in because salt during snowy season causes damage.

Whether you are a home owner or a property manager it is important to be proactive so you prevent possible damages to your property. Losses will happen but if you use preventative measures you can possibly help minimize the level of damage thus lowering the amount of money needed to repair/replace your property.

If your business or home experiences a loss give SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline a call 617-903-5055! We are here to help 24/7. 

Handling Storm in Your Business

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Be prepared and know that SERVPRO of Allston. Brighton & Brookline is only a call away.

If your business has been affected by flood the most important thing you can do is act quickly to reduce the level of damage and try to contain recovery costs. If no one is injured the first thing you want to do is call your insurance company.  Follow the 3 Be's:

Be Safe

Make sure your building is safe before you enter. Do a quick assessment of the exterior of the building to see if there are any structural damages. You should also check for possible electrical hazards. The safest thing you can do is to turn off the power if possible. Since there is the potential for electrocution if electricity is still running make sure you are wearing protective gear as you walk through the property.

Be Quick

Time is of the essence when dealing with standing water. It takes less than 48 hours for mold to grow and spread. For this reason you want to quickly remove the excess water. Open windows and use air movers to help with drying. You then want to ensure there are no pockets of concealed water – either under carpet or on water absorbing material (i.e. concrete).  If flood is laden with bacteria or chemicals do not try to clean on your own get a professional like SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline involved.

If you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055

Be Thorough

Make sure you document everything! Take a picture of the damaged condition and anything you are throwing out. This will be important for the recovery process with your insurance company.

If all of this seems like a lot of work that you are not ready or do not have the time to take on do not worry! SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton, & Brookline can ease the stress and complete the entire process for you. All we need is your insurance carrier name and your claim number and we will take care of the rest. We are here for you during this time of need and our trained technicians will make the damage look “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline when you need us 617-903-5055!

Trauma and Your Business

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Its important to call professionals when there is trauma that needs to be properly cleaned. We are here 365 24/7

If you are in the hospitality business then you know that fatalities happen in the facility. Maybe more than you would like. 

Under the Federal Government and Department of Labor, OSHA has created regulations concerning the handling of items or objects that may have been contaminated with blood and/or bodily fluids. These regulations are in place to not only protect the general public but also, the professionals doing the cleaning. Potential pathogens in bodily fluids include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and prions. It is extremely important that the standards are abided to not only to prevent the spread of possible disease but also to avoid hefty fines from the Environmental Protection Agency EPA.

It is important to note that cleaning cannot and will not begin at a trauma site until police actions are completed and the site is released by police. We stress the importance of performing quality cleaning services to prevent cross contamination. For this reason we clean the ceiling down to the floor. Our techs will be in special protective gear and use EPA certified products to clean the affected areas.

Time is of the essence when dealing with cleaning a trauma site because the longer the pathogen settles the harder it is to clean the surface and eliminate contaminates.  Because we have experience in this field our team already knows the process and what to do – so you can be rest assured the cleanup will be done right and under Federal standards.  Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline when you need us 617-903-5055!

Is Your Business Prepared For Fire Emergencies

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

Fire safety is important let us know how we can help!

If you own a business, it is important that you are honest about potential risks from every source—including from emergencies and natural disasters. With the possibility of commercial fires and the data behind how costly they can be, preparing for these is key to the longevity of your operations.

There are many ways to get started in fire safety planning, but we always recommend originating from a safety standpoint. Teaching your employees how to perform a fire evacuation is a key element to keeping everyone safe in case the fire alarm were to sound for real.

Teaching Your Employees How to Perform a Fire Evacuation

Consult with your local fire officials. With the internet, you have so many research options at your fingertips surrounding commercial fire safety, but do not forget about your local options as well. You can generally have your local fire officials come and provide you with personalized advice for planning your evacuation routes and boosting your fire safety.

Communicate and mark fire evacuation routes. After you have decided what evacuation routes suit your needs, be sure they are labeled clearly and your staff is aware of the upcoming drill. Keeping everyone looped in will create more transparency and be sure every one of your staff members are prepared when the drill begins.

Have fire drills frequently. Though taking time out of your day for a fire drill is not ideal, generally doing them once every few months is sufficient enough for everyone’s safety. Keep them on the schedule regularly enough so that everyone can remember the protocols, but not so often that they become mundane.

Run different fire scenarios. There are many ways fires start and spread throughout an office space, so your drills should reflect this to better prepare everyone for a real fire. Have your mock fire block different exit routes so your employees can see what it is like to alter their course with little notice just like they may have to if the fire alarm sounds for real.

If your business has experienced fire damage, you can count on us. We specialize in commercial fire restoration and will be here for you at any hour— call us today 617-903-5055

Commercial HVAC System Maintenance

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Maintaining your HVAC system can save you thousands in the long run

Massachusetts winters can be very brutal. If your commercial building is not ready it can be very expensive for you because there are so many things that can wrong and disrupt business. Below are simple things you can do to keep your HVAC system and your business running all winter long.

Change filters

It is highly recommended that you change your filters before a peak season like summer and winter. This is because your system has a greater demand at these times. Make sure you are changing filters regularly (1-6 months) to avoid getting pollutants and mold into the air. If you do not, it can be a major health issue for your employees and those entering your premise. If you smell musty odors in any area of your building make sure you get the air quality sampled to rule out the possible growth and spread of mold. Depending on the size and location of your HVAC system it may be better to hire someone to help change the filter for you.

Inspect and clean your system

Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of your system if it is being done correctly. You can contract an experienced professional to help or have a plan in place to maintain on your own. What is important is that you always have a good idea of the current condition of your system and when possible services will be needed.

Keep a contact list of local service providers who can help repair your system in the event of a mal function. This will help save you time when something happens, it eventually will happen. Your preparation now can help save you hundreds in the future!

Bio Hazard Remediation - Let the Pros Take Care of It!

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

We take bio-hazard seriously here at SERVPRO!

Bio hazard by definition is anything that is a risk to human health or the environment. They stem from biological substances, especially microorganisms and pathogens.

Pathogens, many times are disease-causing. They can be found in the form of bacteria, viruses, mold spores, or protozoans. Plumbing or sewage back flow can present a higher bio hazard risk. For this reason if you ever have a toilet over flow or notice sewage back up in your home or business the best thing to do is to call a professional to ensure the area and surrounding areas are properly and thoroughly disinfected.

At SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton and Brookline we take bio hazard damage very seriously because of the potential impact it can have on the health of not only our customers but also our employees.

If your home or business experiences a bio hazard loss do not place fans in the area. Ensure you have little to no contact with the affected area to prevent the spread of contaminants to other areas of your home or business. If you have an active leak or plumbing issue call the local plumbing company so they can address the situation. Once they have addressed the cause of the issue you will want to call a professional to thoroughly clean and disinfect the area.

Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline today if you are facing a bio-hazard issue in your home or business! We are available 24/7/365

Are you Ready for the Cold Season?

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Boston Weather can be unpredictable - make sure you are ready

If you are a Boston resident or property owner you know that the winter is unpredictable. Some years we barely get snow and the temperatures are fairly mild. While other years it is frigid with howling winds and never ending snow storms.

No matter what kind of winter is in the cards for us this year, as a property owner you should be prepared. You should not wait until winter is upon us to prepare your property. The time is now, before the fall! During this time you should be making repairs and doing preventative maintenance.

Some areas to consider:

Gutters

Clean and repair the gutter before the temperature drops. Seal leaking caps and if you can add a gutter cover to prevent debris build up. Consider investing in a gutter heating cable. This will help prevent ice dams. 

Windows and walk ways

Check your windows to make sure there are not any air leaks or excessive condensation build up. Most windows are believed to have a life cycle of 20yrs check your windows to ensure they are not at or nearing the end of their cycle. Check your walk way for any major cracks that will need to be repaired.  Pay attention to seams as well.

Boiler Room

Boilers should be serviced once a year by an engineer. The most important part of winterizing is ensuring buildings boiler will operate throughout the long winter. Ensure the pipes are well insulated as extreme cold weather can cause the boiler to shut off - which can result in frozen pipes.

HVAC

Check and replace air filters if necessary. Turn your system on to ensure it is functioning properly. Like a car idleness is not good. Run the heating unit a few weeks before temperatures start to drop to keep it working properly.

Water faucets and water lines

Drain outdoor water faucets and water lines to make sure there is no sitting water. If there is water in the water lines it can freeze in cold temperatures and cause damage to the water line and faucets.

Roof

Roofs typically have a 12 year life span. You can usually do a visual test of your roof to get a better idea of its current condition. Repair or replace any missing shingles. An added benefit of updating your roof is an insurance discount for newly replaced roof!

Fix crack in concrete and asphalt

Water is easily absorbed by concrete given the nature of the materials. If there are large cracks make sure you fill them in because salt during snowy season causes damage.

Whether you are a home owner or a property manager it is important to be proactive so you prevent possible damages to your property. Losses will happen but if you use preventative measures you can possibly help minimize the level of damage thus lowering the amount of money needed to repair/replace your property.

If your business or home experiences a loss give SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline a call 617-903-5055! We are here to help 24/7. 

Create a System for Evacuation Drills at Your Business | SERVPRO® of Allston, Brighton & Brookline

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

If your business experiences any fire damage, you can count on us. SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline specializes in fire restoration.

If you own a business, it is important that you are honest about potential risks from every source—including from emergencies and natural disasters. With the possibility of commercial fires and the data behind how costly they can be, preparing for these is key to the longevity of your operations.

There are many ways to get started in fire safety planning, but we always recommend originating from a safety standpoint. Teaching your employees how to perform a fire evacuation is a key element to keeping everyone safe in case the fire alarm were to sound for real.

Teaching Your Employees How to Perform a Fire Evacuation

Consult with your local fire officials. With the internet, you have so many research options at your fingertips surrounding commercial fire safety, but do not forget about your local options as well. You can generally have your local fire officials come and provide you with personalized advice for planning your evacuation routes and boosting your fire safety.

Communicate and mark fire evacuation routes. After you have decided what evacuation routes suit your needs, be sure they are labeled clearly and your staff is aware of the upcoming drill. Keeping everyone looped in will create more transparency and be sure every one of your staff members are prepared when the drill begins.

Have fire drills frequently. Though taking time out of your day for a fire drill is not ideal, generally doing them once every few months is sufficient enough for everyone’s safety. Keep them on the schedule regularly enough so that everyone can remember the protocols, but not so often that they become mundane.

Run different fire scenarios. There are many ways fires start and spread throughout an office space, so your drills should reflect this to better prepare everyone for a real fire. Have your mock fire block different exit routes so your employees can see what it is like to alter their course with little notice just like they may have to if the fire alarm sounds for real.

If your business has experienced fire damage, you can count on us. We specialize in commercial fire restoration and will be here for you at any hour— call us today 617-903-5055

Emergency Ready Profile for Your Business

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to help you prepare

When accidents strike they do not care whether you are prepared or not! As a business it is vital that you know what to do, who to call, and how you will bounce back in the event of an emergency.  The fact is that as many as one in four businesses that suffer a major disaster will not reopen afterward. Do not let your business become a statistic!

Here at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline we pride ourselves in being a resource to the businesses in our community. It is important to us that the businesses in our community and surrounding communities survive. SERVPRO has a Free Emergency Ready Profile that your business can use to help prepare you in the event of a major disaster. Studies show that the faster you can react to a disaster it lowers the damage done. The profile helps store everything you need such as contact information, locations of shut off valves, pictures and so much more to help in the event there is a disaster. The profile you create for your business is also useful to us as it will inform us of where our vehicles should park in the event of a loss. This is helpful in the event you do not want to bring public attention to the fact that your business is experiencing some kind of loss.  

We understand you may already have a facilities manager or be a facilities manager who knows the ins and outs of the building. The profile is not meant to replace a facilities manager in any way – it’s a resource for them.  Anything can happen and as a business you want to make sure whoever is nearby can pick up your profile and depending on the type of disaster know exactly who to contact and what to do if anything.

The Emergency Ready Profile can be distributed in digital form and/or hard copy. We understand that as a business too much time cannot be wasted, for that reason the profile can be completed within 30 minutes.  If you are interested in creating an Emergency Ready Profile for your business Call us today 617-903-5055. We will set up a time for an office representative to go to your business to fill out the profile for you for free!

Trauma Clean Up & Restoration

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Professionals should handle bio hazards

If you are in the hospitality business then you know that fatalities happen in the facility. Maybe more than you would like. 

Under the Federal Government and Department of Labor, OSHA has created regulations concerning the handling of items or objects that may have been contaminated with blood and/or bodily fluids. These regulations are in place to not only protect the general public but also, the professionals doing the cleaning. Potential pathogens in bodily fluids include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and prions. It is extremely important that the standards are abided to not only to prevent the spread of possible disease but also to avoid hefty fines from the Environmental Protection Agency EPA.

It is important to note that cleaning cannot and will not begin at a trauma site until police actions are completed and the site is released by police. We stress the importance of performing quality cleaning services to prevent cross contamination. For this reason we clean the ceiling down to the floor. Our techs will be in special protective gear and use EPA certified products to clean the affected areas.

Time is of the essence when dealing with cleaning a trauma site because the longer the pathogen settles the harder it is to clean the surface and eliminate contaminates.  Because we have experience in this field our team already knows the process and what to do – so you can be rest assured the cleanup will be done right and under Federal standards.  Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline when you need us 617-903-5055!

How to Handle a Flood in your Business

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Prepare yourself and your business for when disaster strikes

If your business has been affected by flood the most important thing you can do is act quickly to reduce the level of damage and try to contain recovery costs. If no one is injured the first thing you want to do is call your insurance company.  Follow the 3 Be's:

Be Safe

Make sure your building is safe before you enter. Do a quick assessment of the exterior of the building to see if there are any structural damages. You should also check for possible electrical hazards. The safest thing you can do is to turn off the power if possible. Since there is the potential for electrocution if electricity is still running make sure you are wearing protective gear as you walk through the property.

Be Quick

Time is of the essence when dealing with standing water. It takes less than 48 hours for mold to grow and spread. For this reason you want to quickly remove the excess water. Open windows and use air movers to help with drying. You then want to ensure there are no pockets of concealed water – either under carpet or on water absorbing material (i.e. concrete).  If flood is laden with bacteria or chemicals do not try to clean on your own get a professional like SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline involved.

If you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055

Be Thorough

Make sure you document everything! Take a picture of the damaged condition and anything you are throwing out. This will be important for the recovery process with your insurance company.

If all of this seems like a lot of work that you are not ready or do not have the time to take on do not worry! SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton, & Brookline can ease the stress and complete the entire process for you. All we need is your insurance carrier name and your claim number and we will take care of the rest. We are here for you during this time of need and our trained technicians will make the damage look “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline when you need us 617-903-5055!

Mice droppings?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

check for signs of mice in your office

Did you know that an office or warehouse can be like a giant playground for mice and friends? Your office makes for excellent shelter for mice, its keeps them warm in cold weather and protects them from animals that are larger.  To make matters worse, all the food that is left behind in an office and warehouse can lead to an all-you-can-eat buffet for these little critters.

Once there is one mouse, then becomes multiple...  Mice and rats can do more damage to your office than meets the eye.  

First, spread disease!

• Mice may be small animals but they can carry big diseases. 

Second, droppings.

• Mice and rats can spread diseases through their droppings. Mice have no shame and will go anywhere they please, including your keyboard and phone. That would not be a pleasant way to start a Monday morning.  

Third, urine.  

• Mice also like to urinate everywhere, especially in a new place. It lets them keep track of the places they’ve been and is a way of leaving messages behind for their friends.

Fourth, chew cables.

• Imagine coming into work one day and your computer does not turn on? Then imagine realizing that a mouse or rat had chewed through the cord to your computer…bummer.

Fifth, start fires.

• Mice chewing on wires in your office can lead to the potential to start fires.  By chewing wires under your desk, the mice leave the rubber casing open, which can lead to them short circuiting and catching alight.  Exposed wires are more prone to become in contact with water and as we all know water and electricity do not mix very well.

At the first sight of any of these things happening, make sure you call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline (617-903- 5055) to make sure your business is cleaned properly and prevent this problem does not happen again.

Water Damage in Commercial Facilities

7/3/2020 (Permalink)

We are always here to help

Flooding and water damage events at City of Boston 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 Allston, Brighton & Brookline

SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 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 business has water or fire damage, please call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline (617) 903-5055

Commercial HVAC tips for the winter

11/12/2019 (Permalink)

Replacing filters regularly can help the quality of the air and keep your system running smoothly.

Massachusetts winters can be very brutal. If your commercial building is not ready it can be very expensive for you because there are so many things that can wrong and disrupt business. Below are simple things you can do to keep your HVAC system and your business running all winter long.

Change filters

It is highly recommended that you change your filters before a peak season like summer and winter. This is because your system has a greater demand at these times. Make sure you are changing filters regularly (1-6 months) to avoid getting pollutants and mold into the air. If you do not, it can be a major health issue for your employees and those entering your premise. If you smell musty odors in any area of your building make sure you get the air quality sampled to rule out the possible growth and spread of mold. Depending on the size and location of your HVAC system it may be better to hire someone to help change the filter for you.

Inspect and clean your system

Regular maintenance can help prolong the life of your system if it is being done correctly. You can contract an experienced professional to help or have a plan in place to maintain on your own. What is important is that you always have a good idea of the current condition of your system and when possible services will be needed.

Keep a contact list of local service providers who can help repair your system in the event of a mal function. This will help save you time when something happens, it eventually will happen. Your preparation now can help save you hundreds in the future!

Preparing your home and business for the cold season

8/15/2019 (Permalink)

Quick transition from summer to winter here in Boston, MA!

If you are a Boston resident or property owner you know that the winter is unpredictable. Some years we barely get snow and the temperatures are fairly mild. While other years it is frigid with howling winds and never ending snow storms.

No matter what kind of winter is in the cards for us this year, as a property owner you should be prepared. You should not wait until winter is upon us to prepare your property. The time is now, before the fall! During this time you should be making repairs and doing preventative maintenance.

Some areas to consider:

Gutters

Clean and repair the gutter before the temperature drops. Seal leaking caps and if you can add a gutter cover to prevent debris build up. Consider investing in a gutter heating cable. This will help prevent ice dams. 

Windows and walk ways

Check your windows to make sure there are not any air leaks or excessive condensation build up. Most windows are believed to have a life cycle of 20yrs check your windows to ensure they are not at or nearing the end of their cycle. Check your walk way for any major cracks that will need to be repaired.  Pay attention to seams as well.

Boiler Room

Boilers should be serviced once a year by an engineer. The most important part of winterizing is ensuring buildings boiler will operate throughout the long winter. Ensure the pipes are well insulated as extreme cold weather can cause the boiler to shut off - which can result in frozen pipes.

HVAC

Check and replace air filters if necessary. Turn your system on to ensure it is functioning properly. Like a car idleness is not good. Run the heating unit a few weeks before temperatures start to drop to keep it working properly.

Water faucets and water lines

Drain outdoor water faucets and water lines to make sure there is no sitting water. If there is water in the water lines it can freeze in cold temperatures and cause damage to the water line and faucets.

Roof

Roofs typically have a 12 year life span. You can usually do a visual test of your roof to get a better idea of its current condition. Repair or replace any missing shingles. An added benefit of updating your roof is an insurance discount for newly replaced roof!

Fix crack in concrete and asphalt

Water is easily absorbed by concrete given the nature of the materials. If there are large cracks make sure you fill them in because salt during snowy season causes damage.

Whether you are a home owner or a property manager it is important to be proactive so you prevent possible damages to your property. Losses will happen but if you use preventative measures you can possibly help minimize the level of damage thus lowering the amount of money needed to repair/replace your property.

If your business or home experiences a loss give SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline a call 617-903-5055! We are here to help 24/7. 

Your Business is Flooded. Now what?

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Be safe. Be Quick. Be Thorough during flood to help damage from getting worse and keep recovery costs down

If your business has been affected by flood the most important thing you can do is act quickly to reduce the level of damage and try to contain recovery costs. If no one is injured the first thing you want to do is call your insurance company.  Follow the 3 Be's:

Be Safe

Make sure your building is safe before you enter. Do a quick assessment of the exterior of the building to see if there are any structural damages. You should also check for possible electrical hazards. The safest thing you can do is to turn off the power if possible. Since there is the potential for electrocution if electricity is still running make sure you are wearing protective gear as you walk through the property.

Be Quick

Time is of the essence when dealing with standing water. It takes less than 48 hours for mold to grow and spread. For this reason you want to quickly remove the excess water. Open windows and use air movers to help with drying. You then want to ensure there are no pockets of concealed water – either under carpet or on water absorbing material (ie. concrete).  If flood is laden with bacteria or chemicals do not try to clean on your own get a professional like SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline involved.

If you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055

Be Thorough

Make sure you document everything! Take a picture of the damaged condition and anything you are throwing out. This will be important for the recovery process with your insurance company.

If all of this seems like a lot of work that you are not ready or do not have the time to take on do not worry! SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton, & Brookline can ease the stress and complete the entire process for you. All we need is your insurance carrier name and your claim number and we will take care of the rest. We are here for you during this time of need and our trained technicians will make the damage look “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline when you need us 617-903-5055!

Does Your Business Have An Emergency Plan?

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profile

When accidents strike they do not care whether you are prepared or not! As a business it is vital that you know what to do, who to call, and how you will bounce back in the event of an emergency.  The fact is that as many as one in four businesses that suffer a major disaster will not reopen afterward. Do not let your business become a statistic!

Here at SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline we pride ourselves in being a resource to the businesses in our community. It is important to us that the businesses in our community and surrounding communities survive. SERVPRO has a Free Emergency Ready Profile that your business can use to help prepare you in the event of a major disaster. Studies show that the faster you can react to a disaster it lowers the damage done. The profile helps store everything you need such as contact information, locations of shut off valves, pictures and so much more to help in the event there is a disaster. The profile you create for your business is also useful to us as it will inform us of where our vehicles should park in the event of a loss. This is helpful in the event you do not want to bring public attention to the fact that your business is experiencing some kind of loss.  

We understand you may already have a facilities manager or be a facilities manager who knows the ins and outs of the building. The profile is not meant to replace a facilities manager in any way – it’s a resource for them.  Anything can happen and as a business you want to make sure whoever is nearby can pick up your profile and depending on the type of disaster know exactly who to contact and what to do if anything.

The Emergency Ready Profile can be distributed in digital form and/or hard copy. We understand that as a business too much time cannot be wasted, for that reason the profile can be completed within 30 minutes.  If you are interested in creating an Emergency Ready Profile for your business Call us today 617-903-5055. We will set up a time for an office representative to go to your business to fill out the profile for you for free!

Trauma and Clean Up

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Bio-hazards require special cleaning and protective equipment

If you are in the hospitality business then you know that fatalities happen in the facility. Maybe more than you would like. 

Under the Federal Government and Department of Labor, OSHA has created regulations concerning the handling of items or objects that may have been contaminated with blood and/or bodily fluids. These regulations are in place to not only protect the general public but also, the professionals doing the cleaning. Potential pathogens in bodily fluids include bacteria, fungi, viruses, and prions. It is extremely important that the standards are abided to not only to prevent the spread of possible disease but also to avoid hefty fines from the Environmental Protection Agency EPA.

It is important to note that cleaning cannot and will not begin at a trauma site until police actions are completed and the site is released by police. We stress the importance of performing quality cleaning services to prevent cross contamination. For this reason we clean the ceiling down to the floor. Our techs will be in special protective gear and use EPA certified products to clean the affected areas.

Time is of the essence when dealing with cleaning a trauma site because the longer the pathogen settles the harder it is to clean the surface and eliminate contaminates.  Because we have experience in this field our team already knows the process and what to do – so you can be rest assured the cleanup will be done right and under Federal standards.  Call SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline when you need us 617-903-5055!

#SERVPRO #Allston #Brighton #Brookline #trauma #cleanup #remediation #safetyfirst #PPE

Cleaning Up Bio-hazard So You Don't Have To

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Sewer backup in Commercial Building in Boston, MA.

Sewer back ups are not only common in residential facilities! They also happen in business facilities! 

One of the most common causes of sewer back ups in business facilities is the flushing of items down the toilet. Most businesses have posts in bathroom stalls asking that people not flush items other than toilet paper. Other causes of sewer back up can be worn out piping  when the pipes are old it is easier to be damaged. Beware of tree roots as they can enter the pipes or even crush the pipes and cause damage.  

In the picture we responded to sewage back up in a commercial facility due to a sewer line clog. Our customer had posts in their backroom stalls and other forms of non toilet paper waste removal products. Unfortunately, someone flushed something down the toilet which clogged their system and resulted in the flooding of their basement with biohazard material. Due to our previous relationship with this business, they knew exactly who to call - SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline 617-903-5055 to help remediate the situation.

Raw sewage material is dangerous, because it contains bacteria and other potential pathogens. For this reason it is strongly recommended that you contact a professional for the containment and cleanup process. Our team will be dressed in protective gear and use specialized products to properly clean the affected area. 

If you are a facilities manager, I’m sure this can be frustrating at times since you all are doing everything in your control to try to prevent clogged plumbing. If your business has high traffic like a healthcare facility, school, or retail to name a few, the best thing you can do is prepare yourself and know who to call. Sewage back up is more common than you may think so be prepared.  Worry not! Whether it is a residential or commercial space, we respond fast and arrive with the resources needed to assist you any time, any day. We are located in your backyard!

At SERVPRO of Allston, Brighton & Brookline we make long lasting relationships with surrounding companies and build trusting partnerships that allow us to engage with our community.  With our help, the business pictured was back to normal "Like it never even happened."

 
#SERVPRO #Boston #Sewage #Clogged #basementflood #247service