Professional Air Ducts Commercial Cleaning Services

6/18/2022 (Permalink)

Have you noticed dust comes out of the air ducts in your home/office every time you turn on the HVAC system? Have you seen dust or pet hair trapped in the ventilation openings or dirt in the air register grill? This could be a sign that your duct system needs to be cleaned.

To ensure good cleaning of your air duct system, you should use the services of a seasoned professional. Professional/Commercial service providers use safe and proven methods to clean your ducts. In addition, they handle the latest technology to provide the best duct cleaning services for your HVAC system.

So, if you are looking for an air duct cleaning service in Albany, you can expect the following from a reputable service provider:

• High-quality service: Professional duct cleaning service providers will guarantee proper cleaning as they have knowledge and experience in handling complex systems.
  
  
• High customer satisfaction: Competent service providers put the customer at the center of all problems. Apart from high-end services, these service providers also offer support services to ensure superior customer satisfaction.
  
  
• No hidden fees: Professional duct cleaning service providers guarantee full transparency in their communications. Unlike many other service providers, reputable air duct cleaning service providers provide their customers with an upfront cost for their services with no hidden fees.

Apart from the above, a reputable and professional duct cleaning company like SERVPRO has a team of skilled professionals who have extensive knowledge of the HVAC industry. These professionals can resolve all your questions and complete your project within the allotted timeframe.

If you think your office ducts need cleaning, call us at (518) 456-111 to have them cleaned professionally.

SERVPRO: Professional Commercial Cleaning Services Provider That Fit Your Needs

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a renowned commercial cleaning services company operating around the South Albany area. We specialize in almost all cleaning needs for all types of properties, from workplaces to homes.

Finding a professional Commercial Cleaning Services in Albany can often be hectic. It's time to get rid of this inconvenience and hire the services of the best commercial cleaning company with SERVPRO. Our experience ensures impeccable protection that not only creates a productive workplace but also reassures customers with our attentiveness.

With our commercial cleaning services, you’ll get customized services from the same cleaning team that helps to creates trust and understanding. However, you’ll get the flexibility, expediency, and professionalism of a long-lasting company that can adapt to short-term changes and offers emergency services if necessary.

We believe that a personal, friendly, and professional approach to our work is the reason that we have so many longtime customers who regularly recommend our services to others. Our team of highly qualified and experienced professionals will turn your office into a bright and clean space.

Why Choose SERVPRO Commercial Cleaning Service in South Albany?

• Fully equipped and highly qualified personnel
• Friendly, personal service
• Flexible service options
• Highly skilled and proficient in health and safety standards
• Use only the safest products
• Various cleaning services such as carpet cleaning and removing stubborn stains
• A dedicated team with the highest cleaning and maintenance standards

If you are looking for reliable and high-quality Commercial Cleaning Services in South Albany County, get in touch with us right away. Our Team of Experienced & Professionals Cleaners will show up on time at your doorstep.

Can’t Remember When Your Office Building Ducts Were Last Cleaned? Then It’s Time!

5/7/2022 (Permalink)

Last year really flew by and for many building owners, maintenance was a bit of a struggle to get done for a variety of reasons. It’s important to have regular maintenance done to ensure the building is clean and safe. However, one item that’s often overlooked is duct cleaning. It is especially important to have your commercial ducts cleaned. While this type of maintenance isn’t as visible as, say, dirty windows or carpets, it’s still important to get done. If you can’t remember the last time these were addressed, then it’s time!

Why clean a building’s ducts on a regular basis?

Ventilation systems are often the biggest cause of poor indoor air quality, including dust and odors. Most HVAC ducts don’t cross a building owner’s mind until odor or dust actually becomes an issue. If your HVAC has been operating for some time without proper cleaning, it could be circulating less than desirable air throughout the building. SERVPRO of South Albany County can inspect the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit of your business to see if you’re due. Why is it so important to do this? Keeping ducts clean can help fight unwanted odors and extend the life of the equipment, which can save building owners money.

When should you clean your ducts?

Duct cleaning should be a part of your regular office building maintenance. This is especially true if you have done major construction to your building which generated dust and particles! Why clean after construction or other major renovations? Dust and dirt can reside in your air ducts and get worse over time if not cleaned out. Not sure the work was dusty enough to merit a cleaning? SERVPRO of South Albany County will come out and inspect your ducts, making recommendations about the best way to address any indoor air quality concerns at your business and let you know if you’re due for a cleaning. Even without major construction, it’s a good idea to keep those ducts clean.

What exactly does duct cleaning entail?

Duct cleaning usually refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans, fan motor, and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing. This can help eliminate dust, pollen, odors, dirt, debris, and other contaminants. The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include helping restore peak energy efficiency, eliminating offensive odors, and possibly reducing the potential for mold growth if moisture has also accumulated in the HVAC system.

It's time to schedule your duct cleaning

Curious if your office building needs a duct cleaning service? Call our office to schedule your duct cleaning and our pros will come out and let you know what needs to be done. SERVPRO of South Albany County has highly trained professionals ready to help you get those office building ducts cleaned. We offer free estimates so you’ll know what the cost will be before we start the work. Contact us today at 518-456-1111 to get started!

Is Your Office Building Prepared for An Unexpected Disaster?

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

If you own an office building, fire safety and emergency preparedness should be a priority for you, regardless of the size of the building. Being prepared with the right equipment and a well-thought-out emergency plan can save money, protect property, and possibly save lives in the event of a fire or other emergency. Take a moment to see if your office building is prepared now with these suggestions from SERVPRO of South Albany County.

Have fire extinguishers on hand and ready to use

When trying to avoid potential fires at work, make sure that the office building has the suitable amount of fire extinguishers to sufficiently cover the entire building. Fire extinguishers should be tested on a regular basis to make sure they always work correctly. This also applies to all fire suppression systems, like automatic sprinkler systems as well. Your local fire department can assist you in testing and will eagerly provide recommendations on what would be ideal for your office building. Confirm all the building’s fire extinguishers are clearly within reach throughout the building should an emergency occur. Taking additional time to find an extinguisher during an emergency can result in further damage or worse so it’s critical to be prepared ahead of time and know where extinguishers are and are functional.

Check smoke and fire alarms on a routine basis

Smoke and fire alarms are vital to fire protection and damage control for commercial buildings of any size. Installing them is a good start, but they need to be inspected regularly to maintain functionality; otherwise, you may find them non-functional when you need them most. There are several choices for smoke and fire alarms, from hard-wired to wireless units. Once you have a smoke and fire alarm system in place, make sure there is an action plan should the alarm sound off and people know what to do to stay safe and exit the building quickly and safely if necessary. Confirm that your building has an exit map clearly posted throughout the building so people know how to exit the building safely.

Practice ongoing safety training for employees

An important aspect of safety preparedness is safety training for both homeowners and business owners. Including a fire safety training course in your workplace will empower building occupants to know exactly what they do should if an emergency of any kind occurs, from fire to flooding to a gas leak, etc. It’s a good idea to contact your neighborhood fire department for information on available safety courses that you can use in your place of business.

Emergency exit lighting is important for additional safety

Emergency exit signs that light up should be installed throughout the property to direct people to safety during a fire alarm or other emergency in the office building. Make sure that the emergency exit is clear of anything that could get in the way as people try to exit the building. Having appropriate lighting is also especially useful when highly trained remediation specialists arrive to clean up after the disaster.

Have an established evacuation plan

It’s imperative to schedule your commercial building to be inspected for any potential fire code issues or other issues that could hinder overall preparedness. The fire department will do it for free. Have regular fire drills and educate employees so that they are familiar with how to work the fire equipment, how to detect a gas leak, etc. It’s also a good idea to invest in an emergency readiness plan to make sure your building is prepared for any issue that may come along. SERVPRO’s ERP is an efficient way to plan for any emergency for your office building.

Stay prepared for emergencies

It’s critical to ensure that your office building is prepared for any emergency at any time. Reach out to the disaster recovery pros at SERVPRO of South Albany County to learn how we can help. Contact us at 518-456-1111 to get more information today.

We are Available 24/7 If A Fire Has Damaged Your Albany, NY Restaurant

1/8/2022 (Permalink)

In the restaurant business, sometimes accidents happen. A commercial fire damage is a common risk that, with diligence and regular maintenance, can be mitigated almost entirely. However, when a grease fire during a busy service covers your kitchen in unsightly soot, it can be overwhelming to consider the amount of cleanup that needs to take place before you re-open your doors.

Fortunately, when you have commercial fire damage in your Albany small business, our IICRC certified SERVPRO of South Albany County technicians are here to help restore your commercial business to its preloss condition while observing all regulations and codes so that you can get back to business quickly.

When our SERVPRO crews come to your business, we can thoroughly wipe down your fixtures to prevent soot corroding your utensils, furniture, and electronics. Our team can clean your fixtures to eliminate future fire risks that you may have been unaware of previously. Grease and proteins burned in fires can leave filmy residues that impart foul odors on surfaces in your kitchen, and untreated soot can corrode surfaces if allowed to go acidic.

Another concern after soot cleanup is the elimination of odor, we have the training and equipment to identify and eliminate these offensive odors. By identifying the cause of the odor, and determining the conditions where it contacts surfaces, the odor can often be removed over time without a trace by using industrial-grade box fans, HEPA air scrubbers with carbon and potassium permanganate filters, and even sprayers to address odor-causing particles and on charred stainless steel fixtures. Our technicians have access to several odor removal products capable of penetrating surfaces to neutralize an unpleasant odor thoroughly.

SERVPRO of South Albany County is dedicated to fire, water, storm and mold damage cleanup in residential home and commercial buildings. If you need our services to mitigate damage from a disaster in your business, call us today at 518-456-1111.

SERVPRO of South Albany County Offers Building and Reconstruction Services

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO of South Albany County is a “ONE STOP SHOP”? Our franchise SERVPRO tries to make any water, fire, or storm damage as simple as possible for your insurance company to residential homes and commercial property. We are set up to restore your home or business from start to finish. SERVPRO of South Albany County has a strong construction division. It has successfully been able to assist in a one room reconstruction to the full home interior and exterior reconstruction. Our construction division works closely with the mitigation crews, insurance adjusters and customers to make any disaster, “Like it never even happened.”

Our Construction Services Include:

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

Our SERVPRO of South Albany County crews know how stressful a water, fire and storm loss can be.  We will walk you through every step of the process, so you know what to expect.  We work with every insurance company and will keep them updated during the job process as well as sending the insurance company a complete job file.  SERVPRO also has national contracts with many insurance companies and we have built relationships with many local insurance agents and adjusters.  Let SERVPRO of South Albany County do the worrying for you! We also offer reconstruction for any type of insurance or self-pay loss including water, fire, smoke, mold, and biohazard and respond to emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Call us today at 518-456-1111!

The Proper Fire Extinguishers for a Commercial Emergency

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Please be sure to choose the right fire extinguisher for your business and follow the proper safety procedures for your commercial building.

SERVPRO of South Albany County understands how important it is to keep your business functioning and running smoothly for your clients and employees. During the event of a fire, there are many actions you can take to both prevent a fire from occurring as well as getting worse. Below, we list the different types of fire extinguishers that your business should store and maintain in your facility.

Class A Fire Extinguishers are the most common type for your business. These are used when most materials create a fire hazard in your facility.

Class B Fire Extinguishers are utilized for fires involving flammable liquids such as grease and gasoline.

Class C Fire Extinguishers are used when electrical appliances or equipment cause a fire.

Class D extinguishers are utilized in fires that occur in factories such as facilities working with metal.

Class K extinguishers are intended for use when a fire occurs in a commercial kitchen where cooking oils are involved.

Should a fire occur in your business, SERVPRO of South Albany County is here to help. Please be sure to choose the right fire extinguisher for your business and follow the proper safety procedures for your commercial building. In the event that the fire can’t be extinguished or damage is left behind, our fire restoration professionals can handle any size fire, smoke, or soot damage that you experience.

Preventing Electrical Fires In Your Business

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Over 25,000 electrical fires happen right here in the United States every year, and fire damage can often be extremely damaging to a business. Damage can be sustained both from the actual event and the water that is used for the firefighting efforts, as well. As a smart business owner, we know you want to prevent this kind of disaster from occurring to your organization, so today we want to share some simple steps with you that you can take to prevent these electrical fires from happening in your business:

Inspection: One of the most important steps you can take is to have your business inspected for any hazardous situations that could cause a fire. A licensed electrician can help to keep you, your employees, and your property safe by letting you know what needs to be done after a thorough assessment. One example is to replace wiring in an older building; wiring is not made to last forever. 

Cords and Plugs: A very common cause of electrical fires is an electrical cord, plug, or outlet damage. If these items are found to be tattered or frayed, worn out or showing burn signs, they should be replaced immediately. Cords in poor condition can overheat or cause a spark, which can lead to a full-blown fire. Replacing damaged cords is a simple and relatively inexpensive safeguard against electrical fires and can even be purchased for appliances separately if any are in poor condition.

Outlets: Take steps to avoid overloading your outlets. Overburdened sockets are another risk factor for an electrical fire. The United States Fire Administration recommends that you buy power strips equipped with internal overload protection; this feature will ensure that a strip shuts off its power supply as soon as it becomes overloaded, helping prevent fire damage. 

Space heaters: Any appliance that plugs in can be dangerous if not used carefully. Flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, coats, and rugs, need to be watched and kept away from any equipment that produces heat or can overheat. 

Wiring: Faulty wiring is yet another hazard, and if a flickering lamp or sparking outlet is something you are experiencing, contact a licensed electrician your area to make the necessary repairs. If anything that conducts electricity feels warm to the touch, have your electrician check it out to see if it needs to be replaced. 

Just a few minutes of time, a few preventive measures, and a few dollars to replace items that could be dangerous can save lives and property, as well as save you from expensive fire damage clean up. If your business suffers from water or fire damage, remember that the SERVPRO of South Albany County is ready to help any hour of the day or night.

3 Common Water Issues in Commercial Facilities

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

3 Common Water Issues in Commercial Facilities

Commercial property owners are often most concerned about leaking pipes ruining inventory, and causing significant business interruptions. However, several hidden problems can lead to costly repairs and the temporary closure of operations. The key to prevention, then, is being aware of the potential pitfalls of facilities, and in the case of commercial buildings, and depending on age, those pitfalls can land in three areas.

• Foundation
• Sewer Lines
• Water pipes
  
  

If you feel concerned about the problems that could be lurking underneath cosmetic surfaces, you may want to call on SERVPRO of South Albany County. These services typically offer onsite assessments, helping you determine current and future projects.

Foundation Problems
The foundation is the most critical element of your structure. The integrity of the facility rests, literally, on the sturdiness and strength of this base layer. You want to ensure that there are no signs of significant cracking or sagging. If you find cracks, gaps, or sags, it can mean that the sediment layer of the foundation is compromised.

The age of a building can often play a role in the settling or sinking of a property. Depending on the area's dampness, soil can wash away, making the bedrock of your building slightly less capable. A full property assessment can help determine if there are any structural concerns.

Sewer Line Issues
Cast iron sewer lines were once thought to be the most durable material for underground work. Unfortunately, time has proven otherwise. After years in the soil, cast iron systems deteriorate, leading to potential problems and significant expenses. When these lines deteriorate enough, they collapse, compromising the entire sewer system, possibly causing a toilet backup, or worse.

Water Pipe Damage
While water lines carry a clean supply, a pipe break or even slow leaking pipes can lead to extensive damage. The scary things are small, sustained leaks because they can lead to mold. Again, routine inspections are a must.

How long has it been since your last thorough building inspection? Contact a plumbing specialist to check on these three common commercial water issues, including leaking pipes.

4 Lesser-Known Ways to Prepare Your Business for a Fire

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

4 Lesser-Known Ways to Prepare Your Business for a Fire

The possibility that your Albany business building will experience a fire is likely a rare subject of your thoughts. However, the potential for a business fire to create disaster makes it essential to prioritize. While you may know the essential preventative measures, not all are widely acknowledged. So, here are four lesser-known ways to prepare your business for a fire.

1. Check the Lighting
If you should undergo a business fire, the first priority will be to exit the building. Unfortunately, this will be difficult if you can't find an exit. This is why lighting is so important. Make sure that employees will be able to clearly see where each escape route is. These are some areas to focus on:

• Hallways
• Doors
• Signage
  
  

If possible, try to acquire emergency lighting that won't be affected by power outages.

2. Teach Fire Extinguisher Usage
While most every business trains its employees in how to exit a building, fire extinguishers may be neglected. However, the ability to put a fire out is an essential skill during such a disaster. Hold training sessions for this purpose, particularly for those that express a lack of knowledge in the subject.

3. Lower Storage
When storing items, be sure that everything is at least 24 inches away from the ceiling. In one respect, this fire preparation stops the damage from spreading too far. In another, it helps firemen use water in buildings that don't have sprinklers.

4. Inspect Extension Cords
It can be tempting to leave extension cords perpetually plugged in, especially if you work in an office setting. However, this can be a hazard and cause fire damage. Try to implement a policy of unplugging the cords after use.

No business owner wants to experience a fire, but you may find yourself faced with one. If this occurs, you'll want to know that you are fully prepared for a business fire. Just be sure to take immediate action and contact fire restoration experts afterward.

40% of Businesses Do Not Survive a Disaster. Here's what you can do!

5/23/2021 (Permalink)

According to a report by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 40% of businesses do not reopen after a disaster. To survive, businesses should plan ahead for any and all potential disasters so they can weather any storm. Whether it’s fire damage, water damage, storm damage, mold damage or any other general cleaning, SERVPRO has got you covered. Make us your first call in the event of a disaster and we’ll work with you to save and restore. With the assistance of SERVPRO, you’ll have the hard work and dedication of a team who are expertly equipped with the proper tools and knowledge to respond to any size disaster. We are available 24 hours a day to restore your property and get you back to business. Call us at 518-456-1111 to take the first step towards disaster recovery. We’re happy to help!

Can Your Business Survive A Disaster?

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of South Albany County is ready to respond. We know the importance of getting your business back up and running. With 24/7/365 services, our crews are always prepared to help. Loss of business affects your customers, your employees, your income, and every day that goes by, and can jeopardize you if the business cannot successfully stay in business. Forty percent of businesses do not reopen after a fire, major water damage or storm event, and 25% will fail within one year according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. No job is too large or too small. The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of the best of the best in restoration. They are strategically placed throughout the United States. The Large Loss Division has assisted with hurricane damage, tornado disasters, major state flooding events, The Pentagon and COVID 19 outbreaks and preventative cleaning. If your business needs restoration help, call SERVPRO of South Albany County at 518-456-1111.

Common Sources of Commercial Water Damage

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

Whether a water emergency is due to equipment issues, a burst pipe, or weather event, the resulting damage can negatively impact your business in many ways. In addition to the effect that such an event has on your customers, workflow, employees, and inventory, the damage to your commercial building itself can be quite severe. 
 
If you've experienced commercial water damage, you know your main goal is getting back to business as quickly as possible. To better understand how SERVPRO of South Albany County handles water emergencies, it's important to know the most common ways that commercial water damage occurs. 
 
1. Broken Pipes and Water Lines 
This failure is one of the primary causes of commercial water damage, and it can happen suddenly or be the result of an ongoing issue within your building's structure. In addition to seeking out the source of the water, the technicians at SERVPRO of South Albany County evaluate the amount and type of water that has flooded the building. Whether it's clean, gray, or black water determines how we go about restoring the affected areas of your building as well as your inventory, documents, and furnishings. 
 
2. Severe Weather 
When severe weather strikes, your building can be vulnerable to commercial water damage. When it comes natural disasters, the team at SERVPRO of South Albany County is typically tasked with cleaning up debris along with hazardous gray or black water. We'll make sure that any contaminated material is safely handled to prevent any health risks to you, your employees, and your customers. 
 
3. Defective Equipment 
Many business owners are surprised to come to work and find that water has flooded the building as a result of malfunctioning equipment. Though the resulting damage can be sudden and overwhelming, we're usually able to restore the documents, furnishings, and fixtures affected since most water emergencies of this type involve clean, uncontaminated water. 
 
The experts at SERVPRO of South Albany County are available 24/7 to help resolve your business's water emergency so you can open your doors once again. For more information about our commercial water damage services, call us at 518-456-1111 today!

Proactive Cleaning and Disinfecting for your Business

1/23/2021 (Permalink)

Need General Cleaning and Disinfecting for Your Business?

We have all become aware that no matter where we live, every community must practice social distancing, frequent hand washing, and proactive cleaning in our workplaces.

At SERVPRO of South Albany County our "every day" is handling complex cleaning situations, including those where viruses and other pathogens are present.

We only work with hospital-grade, EPA-approved cleaning solutions. Our Certified Master Cleaning Technicians perform jobs every day where they may be confronted with bacteria, viruses, mold, and other pathogens. We know how to do this while keeping you and us safe.

You may wonder how our application techniques or products are different from what is available to the public.

• Commercial cleaning techniques are based upon years of scientific research to determine best practices. Concentrations of ingredients, the application process, temperature, and dwell times are studied for each situation. SERVPRO certified technicians know the formulas.
• Industrial-grade equipment provides a reliable distribution of cleaning agents
• Specific education establishes service standards and guidelines from the CDC, EPA, and OSHA/safety.

Invest in peace of mind. Call SERVPRO of South Albany County today 518-456-1111.

5 Reasons Why a Business Needs Professional Mold Removal

12/26/2020 (Permalink)

Most business owners don’t know much about mold. They don’t know that there are thousands of different types of molds, that mold is a type of fungus or that mold mainly travels through the air.

What they do know is that mold growth is a bad thing, and they certainly don’t want it in their business. So when they discover any visible mold growth, the first thing that they do is run to their supply closet, grab a bottle of bleach and start scrubbing so that they can get rid of their mold as soon as possible.

While DIY removal of mold can be effective, usually in areas smaller than ten square feet, it’s not always the best option. If you’re a business owner with a larger mold problem, you should think twice before trying to handle it in house.

Here are five reasons why it pays to call in a professional mold removal company.

1. You get rid of mold once and for all.

The major reason you should consider hiring a mold professional is also the most obvious – they’ll be able to get the job done right. No matter how hard you try on your own, if you lack the proper training and equipment, you may only touch the mold on the surface. Hidden and dormant spores may remain, which can lead to recurring problems in the long run.

2. You clean every affected surface, not just the most obvious ones.

When struck with mold, different types of surfaces and materials require different approaches. A professional will have the tools and the knowledge to adjust their approach to clean anything that need to be cleaned, from walls to wood to clothing to upholstery.

3. You find and fix the source of your mold.

Professionals don’t just understand how to clean mold – they understand how it forms in the first place. They’ll be able to assess the origin of the leak or moisture that has promoted the growth of mold so that you can fix your problem at the source.

4. You inhibit future mold growth where necessary.

On top of cleaning mold and addressing its causes, professionals can also provide more peace of mind for business owners by applying commercial-grade products designed to restrain the development of mold.

5. You save yourself a ton of time and effort.

Business owners tend to be self-driven and entrepreneurial, so it’s no wonder they often try to take on mold removal themselves. They assume they’ll be able to figure the process out and that they’ll save money by not hiring a professional.

The risk, though, is that the opposite will happen. They may end up wasting too much of their own valuable time just trying to figure out how to fix their mold problem on their own. What’s worse, they may not even fix it completely, opening them up to much costlier problems down the road.

In the end, that’s the real reason you should consider hiring a professional mold remediation company to clean up your commercial facility: because it makes good business sense.

3 Simple Fire Prevention Tips for Businesses

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

If you’re a fan of the TV show “The Office,” then you probably remember the episode where a small kitchen fire totally derails an entire day of work. The entire staff spends the day goofing off outside, even devising song parodies to tease the temp whose inability to use a toaster oven led to the fire in the first place.

While it makes for funny TV, a scene like this in real life would be enough to make any business owner’s blood turn cold. An entire day of work gone just because someone couldn’t figure out how to heat their cheese pita? That’s a lot of money down the drain.

From that perspective, then, investing in fire prevention isn’t just a smart way to keep your employees safe. It’s a business investment that pays off by preventing property damage and wasted time.

Here are three tips for preventing fires at your business.

1. Minimize potential fire hazards.

Many commercial fires are totally preventable. They’re the product of responsible business owners not having the time or the knowledge to find and fix fire hazards. Take some time today to walk through your business and look for potential issues, including:

• Dirty or improperly maintained equipment;
• Combustible objects stored near heaters or furnaces;
• Flammable items not put away in cabinets;
• Broken or fraying appliance cords;
• Lack of proper circulation around appliances;
• Overtaxed power outlets.

2. Maintain fire safety equipment.

Ask yourself the following questions:

• When’s the last time that you checked your smoke detectors?
• Do you know where your fire extinguishers are stored?
• Are there enough extinguishers throughout your building?
• Are any of the extinguishers expired?
• Do your extinguishers show any signs of damage or loss of pressure?
• Have you invested in a sprinkler system?
• Has it been properly maintained?

It can be easy to forget about maintaining your fire safety equipment, but it’s vital that you’re ready if and when disaster strikes.

3. Make a fire prevention and safety plan.

Devising a detailed fire prevention and safety plan and communicating it with your staff is just as important as investing in equipment. The most sophisticated fire prevention system in the world is worth nothing if no one knows that to do when a fire actually breaks out.

Your plan should include the following:

• Evacuation plans, including meetup sites;
• Explanations of how staff will be alerted in case of fire;
• Explanations of accommodations needed for disabled employees, like those in wheelchairs or who have difficulty hearing;
• Locations of fire prevention equipment, including fire extinguishers;
• Plans for routine fire drills;
• Warnings about common fire hazards around the office.

While you can’t prevent accidents from happening, if you follow these tips, you’ll stay as safe as possible from fires in your business.

Your Business Flooded. Now What?

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Imagine this: last night, a freak thunderstorm rolled through Albany. The thunder woke you up, you made sure your windows were closed, and then you went to bed without a second thought.

Twelve hours later, you show up to work to open your business up for the morning. But something doesn’t seem quite right. You open the door to the basement, turn on the light, and your heart sinks – there’s a foot of standing water down there, and everything you were storing appears to be totally soaked.

What should your next move be? We’ll tell you.

1. Shut off gas and electricity.

If it’s safe to do so, and you can access the shutoffs, shut off your gas and electricity. If you aren’t sure how to do this, contact your utility companies for more info.

2. Start to move your contents.

Assuming you can get at the contents of your basement safely, start to move things out of the water and to a place where they can begin to dry. Make a note of the damage as you go.

3. Call your insurance agent.

Talk to your insurance company about what might be covered. If possible, start the process of filing a claim.

4. Take pictures of everything.

Take photos and videos of everything you can, keeping an eye out for potential structural and property damage in particular.

5. Clean up – safely.

Even if you plan to use a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of South Albany County, you may save yourself time and money if you start the cleanup process on your own. Shovel out mud and debris, disinfect all surfaces, and open doors and windows to promote circulation.

Make sure that you wear gloves and clothing you can dispose of when you clean. Flood water, especially when drains back up, may not be especially sanitary.

6. Communicate with employees and customers.

If you need to close due to the flooding, let employees and customers know ASAP. Social media and email are great platforms for getting the message out to customers quickly.

7. Call SERVPRO of South Albany County.

If your flooding is serious, then it pays to call in the professionals. If your business has flooded, call 518-456-1111 – we’ll make it "Like it never even happened."

Large Loss

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that our SERVPRO franchise has the capability to provide water mitigation, mold restoration and fire restoration for your commercial building quickly and efficiently? Our SERVPRO franchise has approximately 50 employees that will mobilize quickly when you need our services.

Should your commercial building experience a large loss, we can quickly activate more SERVPRO trained teammates from other SERVPRO franchises to help us get your building back in order so that you don’t lose revenue. SERVPRO has mobilization teams that travel across the country as needed to support recovery after large storm or disaster events. These teams are familiar with handling the work that goes into a large loss project and are trained to work as efficiently as possible. In the 24 years our franchise has been in business we have brought the mobilization teams in to help a handful of times. Each time, we have had successful outcomes.

Timely mitigation is the key to controlling damage, downtime and recovery costs. Our crews are available 24/7, 365 days a year. We are dedicated to providing detailed and consistent communication to make our customers aware of job status and progress toward completion. 

Downtime = Lost Money

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of South Albany County, our team understands that a quick and efficient response during a water damage emergency is extremely important.  During emergencies like these, not only must the building be back up and functioning, but the information, materials and equipment inside that are used daily need to be taken care of and restored.

SERVPRO of South Albany County can save and restore nearly any office component, including sensitive information and paperwork, with our Document Restoration service. Our team always attempts to salvage anything damaged because we understand that it can keep the cost down for you and the insurance company as well the value it has to your company. If an item can be saved or restored it is worth the time to do so.  SERVPRO of South Albany County works tirelessly to treat each of your items with special care as if they were our own. Our team is professionally trained to keep your items from damage while we do the work.

You can trust that SERVPRO of Bay County keeps in mind that time down for your business equals money lost. Our team will work around the clock to make sure your commercial damage seems “Like it never even happened” and your business is back up and running as soon as possible.

Call SERVPRO of South Albany County today at (518) 456-1111 for more information or commercial water damage restoration services!

5 Ways to Prevent Mold in Your Commercial Business

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Mold in your building may be the last of your worries while operating your commercial business. It’s important to keep in mind that some mold, over time, may cause structural damage to wood along with damage to furnishings and finishes. It could also take a toll on your staff's health if not taken care of properly.

Use the following tips to help prevent mold growth in your business:

#1: Clean Out the Fridge

It can be difficult to keep track of shared refrigerators. Some people will always remember to clear out their leftovers, others won’t. Old food storage containers are a perfect breeding ground for mold. Over time, mold can travel to the shelving and even outside the refrigerator. Consider instituting an office refrigerator policy. If something is left in the fridge by a certain time each week, it goes in the garbage.

#2: Look For and Repair Any Leaks

Leaks from plumbing, windows, roofs, and more can lead to significant water damage in your business as well as an increased risk of mold growth. If you aren’t regularly inspecting your property, it’s easy for these leaks to go unchecked until they create a larger, more costly problem. Watch for telltale signs of a leak such as lower water pressure; wet spots on the floors, ceilings, or walls; and condensation around window sills and in attic spaces.

#3: Run a Dehumidifier

Leaks aren’t the only way for moisture to accumulate in your business. High humidity levels can lead to moisture and mold as well. On hot days, fans can cool you off, but they don’t do much for humidity levels. Run a dehumidifier to cut down the humidity in the building.

#4: Clean Out Trash Cans

While you might switch out the liners regularly, can you remember the last time you washed out the trash cans? It’s easy for bits of food and condensation to sneak beneath liners into the can, which is all mold needs to grow. Try washing out office wastebaskets about once a month to prevent mold growth.

#5: Take Care of Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system can quickly distribute mold spores throughout your building if there is a problem. Make sure your HVAC system receives regular inspections. Sometimes moisture condenses inside air ducts which can lead to mold growth inside the ducts. Make sure to keep the HVAC drip pans clean and unobstructed. And, don’t forget to replace your filters as needed.

Call SERVPRO of South Albany County today at (518) 456-1111 if you need assistance with mold, water, fire, or storm damage to your residential home or commercial business.

Water Damage in Commercial properties

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial properties in the South Albany area can be assured that SERVPRO of South Albany County is ready to serve them no matter the size of their water disaster. Whether it's a room or two, several floors in a high rise or an entire building we are ready to help and have the equipment and personnel to do the job. 

SERVPRO of South Albany County has an impressive resume' of commercial jobs that they have performed. The SERVPRO South Albany County team is a qualified large loss team and also travels to help other teams with both equipment and professional experience. 

SERVPRO of South Albany County is always here to help with your water damage needs. If you would like more information on how SERVPRO of South Albany County can help your commercial property after a disaster or how to prepare before a disaster please call 518-456-1111.

Red Flags to Look for When Buying a Home

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Whether the house is ten years old, fifty years old, or brand new, it’s always important to look for red flags indicating signs of possible home damage that needs restoration before making your final decision. Nobody wants to make the mistake of buying a home, only to discover hidden problems later on that require expensive restoration services and maintenance.

Here’s what we recommend keeping an eye out for when considering a home to buy:

Potential Foundation & Structural Problems

A poor foundation can cost homeowners thousands of dollars to correct, making it one of the most expensive fixes you could potentially have. Be sure the walls, doorframes, and the house itself aren’t leaning in any way or cracked. Also, be sure to check if the yard and other land around the home slopes toward it. If it does slope, that could be a big indicator of damage – water can easily run and collect at the foundation of the house causing severe water damage and compromising its structural integrity.

Poor Drainage

Speaking of water damage, another big red flag when buying a home is how well its drainage system is working. Signs of a bad drainage system could include overflowing gutters, water stains on walls, cracking in the foundation, and pooling water around the yard. If any of these signs are present, you’ll want to be cautious about that property and how prone it is to water damage if it’s not already experiencing the affects.

The Presence of Mold

Mold spells are bad news for the home and your health. While not always easily detected, it’s important for any home to be inspected for mold prior to buying and moving in. Check areas like basements and attics, as well as drains around the house like showers and sinks.

Issues with Electrical Systems

This is where the age of the house comes into play. Electrical system issues can be some of the hardest red flags to detect, so we recommend testing light switches throughout the house while doing a walk through. See how well the lights are working and test the electrical yesterdays. You may even consider hiring a professional inspector to run diagnostics to make sure everything is up to code and avoid potentially hazardous and damaging problems to your home.

We Have the Proper Equipment Needed for Any Size Loss

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

There has been a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of South Albany County Professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

For example:

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation
• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water. 
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
• High-speed air movers causes moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air.
• Air scrubbers
• Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Commercial Restoration vs. Residential Restoration

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

The average restoration company might attempt to treat a commercial project like, “a really big house.” But here at SERVPRO of South Albany County we know that this is just NOT the case. We know that planning, communication and execution all need to be adjusted in order to provide excellent customer service and do the job right. Here, we know and understand that commercial restoration jobs differ from residential restoration jobs in three main ways: function, size and complexity. Function- A residential home has one main purpose, to accommodate a personal living space. However, a commercial structure can serve a variety of functions all in the same building. A few examples of a commercial structure are:

• Government Buildings
• Restaurants
• Retail Stores
• Warehouses
• Hotels
• Libraries
• And More. 

The wide range of uses requires additional considerations about the occupants of the structure, the processes that go on inside the structure and if there are individuals visiting the structure. All of these considerations affect the restoration process and need to be considered when putting a drying plan together. SERVPRO of South Albany County knows what to consider and how to put together a proper drying plan for your water and/or fire damaged commercial property and its occupants.

• Size- Commercial properties can vary in size anywhere from 1,000 sq. feet to 1,000,000 sq. feet. This requires additional time for scoping out the damage, putting together an estimate and a plan for the damages occurred. Also, it requires additional equipment, labor and supplies. All things that SERVPRO of South Albany County has access to immediately.
• Complexity- Commercial restoration projects can contain a large variety of complexities. These complexities can pertain to any commercial project and affect the process from start to finish. Some examples of these complexities are:
• Multiple stakeholders- Authorizations and decisions can involve input and review by multiple individuals (ex. Property Manager, Property Owner, tenant etc.).
• Time Constraints- We know you need to get back to business as soon as possible. We are aware of and work with any time constraints you may have.
• Public Access and Security- Both public and occupant access may need to be limited or restricted. We know how to advise you, and work with both.
• And More…

These complexities can be managed, and must be considered when restoration work is being performed on a commercial property. Thankfully, SERVPRO of South Albany County is prepared for it all! There isn’t anything we’re not ready for, and will help you get your commercial property or business back up and running as soon as possible. Remember, we make it, “Like it never even happened." So if your commercial property or business experiences fire and/or water damage, give our office a call immediately at (518) 456-1111. Choose the number one restoration company that knows how to handle a commercial loss.

Make Commercial Appliances a Priority

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Flood damage, burst pipes, and storms, OH MY! It feels like, between all the crazy weather we have had in the past year, we have enough to worry about when it comes to potential water damages affecting our businesses. However, there is a hidden danger that lies within your business's walls that needs to be paid attention to. Leaking and blocked appliances may not seem like a big deal, but it does not take a lot of time for a little leak to cause a lot of damage to your business. Taking the time to pay attention and keeping your appliances up to date can not only save you a lot of money in the long run, but it can also ensure you are keeping your business doors open and operating. Here are some helpful tips on how to make sure you're making your appliances a priority.

Mark Your Calendar

When you purchase new appliances, make sure you write down the expiration dates and recommended replacement dates on their parts and hoses. You have enough to remember throughout your busy days, so this allows you to write it down and forget about it (until the time comes to make replacements that is).

Make a Date Every Friday Afternoon

Cut out 30 minutes every Friday afternoon and walk around and check all your appliances that are hooked up to a water source. Check for blockages, the hoses, and any leaks, so that you can make sure you are not leaving them unattended for a whole weekend. A small leak over a two-day span could not only create a large amount of damage, but it could be the cause for you having to close your business's doors for a few days. Keeping up with your appliances will help keep your weekend as stress-free as possible.

Don't Put it Off

When you find the problem, fix the problem. Replace a leaky hose, or call a plumber to clear the blockage in your drains or sinks before it is too late. Finding and fixing an issue early on will save you a lot of trouble, time, and money, so don't put it off!

Commercial Water Damage Restoration Facts

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

In the restoration industry, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to water and the havoc it can wreak.  

Water Restoration Facts

• A sheet of drywall standing upright in 1/2" of water can absorb as much as 6 inches in less than 3 hours.
• Water is known as a "universal solvent" because it dissolves more substances than any other liquid.
• Mold typically begins to grow within 24 to 48 hours in an untreated, moist environment.
• A puddle of water around a water heater indicates a slow leak, or rusted or corroded fittings.  Act quickly as water heaters are under a great deal of water pressure.

Water Contamination Categories in the Restoration Industry

• Category One-Water from a clean source that poses no risk of sickness or discomfort such as from an overflowing bathtub or from a broken water supply pipe.
• Category Two-Water that has a significant degree of chemical, biological and/or physical contamination such as water from a dishwasher or washer, or aquarium leak or discharged Category One water that sits untreated for more than 24 hours becomes a Category Two.
• Category Three- Water coming from a grossly unsanitary source or carrying disease causing agents such as releases from septic systems and flood waters or discharged Category One water that sits for more than 48 hours becomes Category Three, or discharged Category Two water that sits for more than 24 hours becomes Category Three.

The use of chemical agents that act as biocides may be used when there is a need to control or destroy pathogenic microorganisms during a restoration project.  The EPA defines three levels of biocidal activity:

• Sanitizers which are designed to reduce the number of microorganisms
• Disinfectants which are designed to destroy or inhibit the growth, but not necessarily  the spores.
• Sterilizers which are designed to destroy all microorganisms and their spores, such as mold, bacteria, viruses, etc.

Water Damage in Commercial Building

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Last week this local commercial building suffered a large water loss. In this particular instance, our SERVPRO team was called after hours to respond to the unpleasant surprise for the local building. Our SERVPRO team responds day and night and is always "faster to any disaster". 

In this case, the water affected a large portion of the basement in a massive building. The basement had concrete and carpet floors that were affected by the water. Unfortunately, some of the area was an office building. Luckily, the SERVPRO team responds very quickly and they were able to minimize the water seeping into the carpeted area. 

The first night our SERVPRO team responded, the water level was higher than expected. But in just a few short hours our SERVPRO team had the water drained and were beginning to clean the area. After the water was drained, they could begin the drying process. Luckily, our team has all of the necessary equipment and we were out of there in just a few days!

Get Back to Business

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Whether it is caused by a severe storm that sends floodwaters rolling through your area, a leaking roof, a malfunctioning appliance, a clogged toilet, failing pipes or some other plumbing disaster, water damage is bad for business. It is a predicament that demands a prompt, effective response.

SERVPRO can supply precisely that with our commercial water damage restoration services. The problems caused by water damage. Why is water damage such a problem? While water is vital to life, uncontrolled water that infiltrates spaces where it does not belong can do a great deal of harm. It can cause structural damage to your commercial facility and destroy the property, equipment, and inventory that you have stored inside it. It can also produce the ideal conditions for mold growth, setting the stage for a potentially hazardous mold infestation. In fact, unattended water damage can produce health hazards and liability issues that can leave your business vulnerable to lawsuits, so it is vital that the damage is dealt with properly. When water damage occurs, time is not your friend. Any delay in addressing it allows the damage process to continue, which is likely to increase both your losses and your restoration costs. The disruption triggered by water damage can also lead to lost productivity. After all, every hour that you spend working to restore your commercial space is an hour that you were not able to spend focused on what you do best. The solution that your business needs water damage can be a significant problem for your business, but it is one with a clear solution.

-Professional water damage restoration services. -Experts with the right combination of training and resources can quickly identify the problems plaguing your property, take steps to restore your property and belongings, and return the area to a safe, healthy space so that you can get back to work without unnecessary delay.

At SERVPRO, we understand the damage that water can do, and we are always ready to make it “Like it never even happened.” Our teams include restoration professionals trained in water damage restoration, applied structural drying, odor control, and upholstery and fabric cleaning. When you reach out to us for help, we do not hesitate. We move quickly to assess the situation and prevent further damage. We use our knowledge and specialized equipment to identify all the areas impacted by the water, including any hidden pockets of moisture.

After identifying the source of the water, we will create a plan to effectively deal with the troubles at the scene. If water remains, we can use professional-grade pumps and vacuums to extract it before shifting to dehumidifiers and air movers as we carefully monitor the drying process to ensure that the structure and its contents are properly dried.

We also begin working to clean and restore your belongings. With an expansive arsenal of professional tools and techniques, we can save items that many others would forsake, so you retain more of your property and reduce your replacement costs. We can also take steps to sanitize the location with antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold issues and deodorize the space to remove musty, unpleasant odors. We work diligently to restore your commercial facility to its preloss condition so that you can get back to business.

If water damage is threatening your business, don’t wait. Contact SERVPRO to arrange for our commercial water damage restoration services today

Commercial Carpet Cleaning

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team has other specialties other than just mitigation and restoration. Our team also specializes in cleaning. We can clean pretty much anything. And one thing our team likes to clean is carpets for your commercial businesses!

A dirty carpet isn’t something any business wants to have. It looks unprofessional and unkept. Luckily, our SERVPRO team will come in and clean your carpet.

We take every job seriously and commercial carpet cleaning is one of them! We offer a variety of different carpet cleaning methods.

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

Call your local franchise to schedule a carpet cleaning for your business today.

What to do when your business has a fire

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

The 

word “fire” strikes fear in the hearts of most people and for good reason. Whether it’s your home or business it can bring life, as you know it, to a screeching halt. 

If your business or commercial property caught on fire, don't panic. Instead, call the professionals of SERVPRO and let us start cleaning up immediately. Acting right now is the key to limiting damages and expediting the restoration process, and choosing our team of industry specialists is the secret to attaining the sophisticated services you deserve. All of our IICRC-certified technicians will work with diligence and determination to get your commercial property back in pristine condition.

Knowing which steps to take in the face of a commercial fire can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. To handle fire damage successfully and speedily, implement the following four tips:

1.Call The Insurance Company Immediately.

Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

2. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert.

In addition to fire, smoke, and soot damage, your business may also suffer from water damage as a result of the firefighting efforts.

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your business to pre-fire condition. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

3 Assemble Your Records.

In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have your entire files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building.

Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, a fire can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration in Albany County

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

Quick and Efficient Water Restoration Services

Water and flood damage in the capital region can have a significant impact on your business. It can destroy valuable items and documents, and undo work that took many years to complete. Worse still, you may have to relocate while the building is undergoing repairs. In the end, you may lose a lot of time and even important clients along the way.

When a water disaster happens, you can count on SERVPRO for quick and efficient commercial water damage restoration services in Albany NY. We have a thorough emergency response team that can return your premises to preloss conditions in no time, "Like it never even happened."

The first step our IICRC-trained technicians take is using special equipment to inspect the severity of the commercial water damage. Once this is done, they begin extracting any standing water. The exact process depends on whether the water is inside the property or on the property (or both, in some cases).

To counter water damage under the property, we use an extractor to vacuum up the water so that the contents are no longer soaking wet. If the culprit was a broken pipe, we fix it and then eliminate contaminated soil, spray antimicrobial products, and add new, fresh soil.

To deal with water damage inside the property, we first remove the furniture from the area or place it on blocks. If the carpeting and padding were contaminated with dirty water, we usually throw them away. Clean water can be dried off of the carpet using special procedures. If the wall also sustained water damage, we make small holes to allow air movement for a quicker drying process.

When plumbing leaks happen in a multi-story building like a hotel or office building, switching off the water supply at the main valve is important to prevent further water damage.  We identify where the problem is and then check whether the water valve is located nearby. Turning off the water supply at the mains can also prevent additional damage from mold and mildew. Keep track of your monthly water bills and maintain safety protocols at your business to minimize commercial water damage.

If you detect the presence of water damage in your premises, SERVPRO can help restore your property. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, and our technicians have access to advanced tools and products to ease the restoration process. For queries and emergency services, we are on call 24/7.

The Benefits for Commercial Clients

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

Multi-family, Residential and Commercial Property Managers

If you work in the property management industry you understand the value of a quick response and fast turn around time when it comes to an emergency situation. A quick response time can mean a reduction in the size and scope of the damage, It can also mean the difference between having a chance at saving business critical documents and equipment for the clients that are most important to you.

Multi-family, residential and commercial properties throughout the region have seen better days. Despite proper maintenance, many 30 to 50 year old structures were in danger of slowly succumbing to the severe showers saturating Albany in early spring.

Our area experienced record setting rainfall, causing intermittent flooding throughout the area. Strong winds ravaged roofs, hurling twisted limbs and branches into gutters, which sagged under the weight of rainwater. Our crews were out mitigating various types of water damage, remediating and restoring apartment complexes, commercial offices, retail establishments, and government property.

Commercial Client Benefits

Choosing SERVPRO for your commercial damage mitigation accrues you benefits not limited to:

• Working with you to tailor the solution to you, priding ourselves in accurate and straightforward communication.

• 34 years of experience sets us apart from the competition, we are the leader in commercial damage mitigation.

• Every large commercial loss is supervised by a local commercial operations manager to help ensure seamless communication and timely mitigation.

• The SERVPRO Commercial Large Loss Division is composed of our best of the best in restoration. Our elite large-loss specialists are pre-qualified and strategically positioned throughout the United States to handle any size disaster.

We are Faster to Any Disaster!

An extra wet winter meant SERVPRO answered the call for commercial property managers in the capital region.

Call us today!

Contact the Commercial Fire and Water damage experts at SERVPRO.

How to Make Your Office Smell Good

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

We notice if something smells particularly bad or particularly good, but average smells don't usually generate a lot of notice. However, scent can actually affect your mood, for better or worse. That's why it's important to ensure that your office smells good, but not overpowering.

Deodorization and Odor Removal

The first step to making an office smell good is to sniff out the source of any negative odors. This can be surprisingly difficult, as the culprit might be hiding in the walls, ceiling, or floor. Here at SERVPRO, we're pros at finding and eliminating the source of any negative odors.

Once we've determined what's causing an unpleasant odor in your office space, we use industry-leading deodorization methods to target and remove both the negative odor and its source.

Adding in Positive Scents

While removing an odor can make a huge difference in the smell of a space and on employees' moods, it often isn't enough. Olfactory bulbs, which are the parts of our body that process scents, have a direct effect on the parts of the brain which process emotion and learning. This means that adding positive scents to the office can make working there an incredibly pleasant experience, and can also function to improve productivity!

Scents proven to increase mood and focus are:

Lemon, Jasmine, Rosemary, Peppermint

• Lemon can promote concentration and produce calming effects. It also contains natural antibacterial properties, which can be a lifesaver for offices!

• Jasmine has been shown to lift your mood by producing feelings of confidence and increasing optimism and energy.

• Rosemary helps to improve focus and clarity as well as fighting physical tiredness – great effects for a workplace to have.

• Peppermint increases concentration, focus, and acts as an energy booster to help you come up with brilliant ideas.

Just be careful not to overdo any aromatherapy, as too much scent in the workplace can cause productivity to drop or irritate allergies.

If you have a need for odor removal or deodorization services in the Albany area, SERVPRO has the technical experience, know-how, and professional savvy to make your office smell brand new again. Contact us today to see how we can help your business smell its best!

3 Tips to Keep Your Construction Site Clean

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

A dirty and disorganized construction site will not only make for an eyesore but will also present serious health and safety risks to workers, supervisors, and anyone who visits the site. With the huge volumes of waste that accumulate during and after a construction project, cleaning as well as managing and disposing of waste is likely to present a major challenge. To ensure that the project is completed within the set time-frame and avoid unnecessary complications, you should consider following these tips to keep your construction site clean.

Have clean-up tasks regularly

With the different materials used in construction sites, it would be important to separate the scrap material. Materials such as concrete, metals, and wood can be piled up in an organized manner before being recycled. You should also identify effective and safe ways of disposing of materials that are not recyclable.

To ensure that cleanup tasks are carried out on a regular basis, specific tasks should be assigned to individual workers. This will help to hold each worker to account at the end of the cleaning exercise. For better services, you should consider hiring commercial cleaning services.

Place trash cans on site

Having trash cans and dumpsters on the site will make it easy for you and the construction workers to manage waste. In case there are smaller scraps that cannot be categorized in any specific pile, the trash cans will hold them until the designated time for getting rid of waste. Workers at the site will also have a place to place any wrappings, bags, and containers after eating or drinking various products. In the end, you will have a clean construction site that promotes the health and safety of all workers and visitors.

Choose a responsible contractor

Any responsible and professional construction contractor understands the importance of keeping a construction site clean. Such a contractor will be aware of the various Albany laws relating to environmental conservation. This is why you should shop around before settling on a contractor of your choice. Contractors who have been in business for a number of years will have the experience needed to maintain a clean construction site. This will ensure that they educate everyone at the site on the importance and effective ways of promoting a clean and safe working environment.

With these simple tips, you will create a safer and more productive work environment. This will go a long way in helping you to avoid expensive lawsuits and claim settlements.

How to Keep Your Flooring Shining Bright

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

We spoke about how to properly maintain commercial carpeting in our last blog, but what about the commercial properties that have purchased hard surface flooring instead? We’ve got those commercial properties covered in this article. Although many people view hard flooring as an easier cleanup, it still takes the proper care and maintenance year round to keep it looking presentable and clean.  According to the Institute of Inspection of Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the first step to maintaining your hard surface flooring is identifying the type you have. The IICRC states that there are primarily six different categories of hard flooring such as, natural stone, concrete, ceramic, wood, resilient and specialty. Each category may take a different method of cleaning to ensure that it lasts a long lifetime.

·      Using a walk off mat is critical to keeping dirt and extra contaminants from entering your building and sticking to your flooring. Just as dirt wears down carpet, it also can damage and cause erosion on hard surface flooring. According to the IICRC, five feet of walk off mat will reduce dirt from entering the building by 33% and 25 feet of walk off mat will reduce almost all dirt by time the person has entered your clean Nashville business.

·      Make sure to clean up spills right upon discovering them. This is not only extremely important for your customers’ safety, but also will stop from causing a stain or water damage on your flooring. Find the proper cleaning product for the type of flooring you have, mark off the area, clean the spill up and dry the area fully before letting people walk back over the surface.

·      We spoke previously about vacuuming carpet regularly to eliminate dirt build up and although there is isn’t much material for dirt to build up on with hard surface flooring, the dirt will cause erosion, breaking down the flooring and possibly causing visible damage. Make sure to provide daily maintenance to the surface by mopping, scrubbing and cleaning the area thoroughly after the commercial traffic is done for the day. This will lead to a longer lifespan and will help eliminate replacing the flooring early on.

·      Last but not least, sometimes it’s nice to treat your flooring to some special treatment. If there are stains or tough to clean spots that have developed over time, this doesn’t always mean that the floor needs to be replaced. Contact your local restoration company to help clean the surface with their specialty equipment.

Ozone Deodorization: How Does it Work?

12/3/2017 (Permalink)

The use of ozone can be a very effective way of removing odor from a property. SERVPRO may commonly use this method following fire damage cleaning, skunk odor to the property, mold or full property cleaning. SERVPRO will provide a free estimate of your situation and decide if Ozone will be the best and most appropriate method of odor removal. 

When it comes to successful deodorization the first step is to clean/remove or fix what is causing the odor, for example the best chance of success would be to clean the fire damage first, fix a leaking pipe that is causing a musty odor, or remove the garbage from an area before starting the ozone process. It will be crucial to remove items emitting odor.

How it works: Basically, ozone removes odor by destroying the molecules, bacteria, and spores that cause unpleasant smells.  Ozone (O3) is a highly reactive molecule and is very quick to chemically react with particles that it comes into contact with in the air and on surfaces.  The extra oxygen atom in the ozone attaches itself to other molecules, chemically changing their structure to create non-offensive molecules – eliminating the smell. *Ozonesolutions.com

For more questions regarding our deodorization methods please feel free to call our office and we would be happy to help!