Recent Posts

Tips from the SERVice PROfessionals: Protecting Your Property from Water

3/11/2024 (Permalink)

water leak One of the key ways to prevent water damage is to regularly inspect your plumbing system.

Water damage can be a homeowner's worst nightmare, causing not only financial strain but also emotional distress. As experts in restoration services, we understand the importance of prevention when it comes to water damage. By taking proactive measures, you can safeguard your home and belongings from potential harm.

One of the key ways to prevent water damage is to regularly inspect your plumbing system. Check for any leaks, drips, or signs of corrosion in pipes, faucets, and appliances. Addressing these issues promptly can help avoid more significant problems down the line. Additionally, installing a leak detection system can provide an early warning in case of any water-related emergencies.

Another crucial step in water damage prevention is proper maintenance of your home's exterior. Make sure your roof is in good condition, with no missing or damaged shingles. Clean out gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water from accumulating and seeping into your home. Proper grading around your property can also help ensure that water flows away from the foundation, reducing the risk of flooding.

Remember, a little prevention now can save you a lot of headache later on.

SERVPRO of Jonesboro
3025 Peabody Drive | Jonesboro, AR 72404
870-604-4725 | www.SERVPROjonesboro.com

Renew, Restore, Revitalize: Your PROfessional Construction Company

2/21/2024 (Permalink)

before and after We specialize in reconstruction after events such as a fire or tornado.

When it comes to your construction needs, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Jonesboro. We have held a commercial contractor’s license for over 4 years in the state of Arkansas. This qualifies us to handle all local residential and commercial construction needs.

Our team of professionals are dedicated to providing top-notch services that exceed expectations and breathe new life into your home or business. We specialize in reconstruction after events such as a fire or tornado, by replacing roofing, siding, windows, doors, flooring and painting. We can also provide remodeling services for rooms like kitchens and bathrooms.

Whether you are looking to renovate a single room or revamp your entire property, our expertise in the field ensures that every aspect of the construction process is handled with care and precision. From initial consultation to the final touches, we are committed to delivering exceptional results that not only meet but exceed your needs. Let us guide you through the journey of renovation with our years of experience, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

At SERVPRO of Jonesboro, we take pride in being a trusted authority in the construction industry. We have a passion for quality craftsmanship and are here to help bring your vision to life. Trust in our expertise and let us show you the transformative power of professional construction services.

Tips from the SERVice PROfessionals: Protecting Your Property from Fire

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

Fire in an electrical outlet Pro Tip: Avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords and ensure that all appliances are turned off when not in use.

Although we are a fire and water restoration company, we would rather you prevent fires at your home and business. It is the best way to ensure the safety of your loved ones and your property. Fires can strike at any moment, and it is crucial to take the necessary steps to prevent them from happening. In this blog, we'll provide you with some valuable tips on how to keep your home and business safe from fires.

The first and most important step is to make sure that you have functioning smoke detectors installed throughout your home. Smoke detectors are the first line of defense and can alert you and your family in case of a fire. It's important to test them regularly and change the batteries at least twice a year. Because alarm sensors wear out, it is recommended to replace them at least every 10 years

Another important step is to avoid leaving cooking unattended. The kitchen is one of the most common places for fires to start, so it's essential to be cautious when cooking. Make sure that all flammable items are kept away from the stove and oven.

It's also important to have a fire extinguisher readily available in case of an emergency. Make sure that you know how to use it and that it is within reach. Furthermore, avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords and ensure that all appliances are turned off when not in use.

Remember that prevention is always better than restoring. By taking the necessary steps to prevent fires, you can ensure the safety of your loved ones and your home. Stay safe, and don't hesitate to contact us for any restoration needs.

SERVPRO of Jonesboro
3025 Peabody Drive | Jonesboro, AR 72404
870-934-0501 | www.SERVPROjonesboro.com

SERVPRO Safety: Water and Mold Remediation; ladder usage, electrical encounters

1/8/2024 (Permalink)

Man leading class Steve Singleton, our construction manager, discussing different SERVPRO safety procedures.

Our SERVPRO mitigation and reconstruction teams held a safety meeting at the start of the year to go over remediation reminders and protocol to safely handle water and mold jobs as well as general safety of using ladders and electrical encounters.

If a water loss is considered to be category 3 by a crew leader- meaning the water is grossly contaminated, containing bacterium, viruses, toxigenic (poison) or other harmful agents that can cause adverse reactions, our team will always wear required PPE such as gloves, boots, coveralls (Tyvek), eye protection and masks. HEPA air filtration (air scrubbers) and HEPA vacuuming will be required, with the possibility of containment of the area.

HEPA is a type of pleated mechanical air filter. It is an acronym for "high efficiency particulate air [filter]" (as officially defined by the U.S. Dept. of Energy) Filters meeting the HEPA standard must satisfy certain levels of efficiency.

If mold is present at a jobsite, containment and PPE will be required along with HEPA air filtration (negative air) and HEPA vacuuming with the possibility of using a HEPA air scrubber. SERVPRO crew leaders will take the lead in identifying the level of containment, getting approval, and implementing PPE and documentation.

Our construction manager, Steve Singleton, will be contacted for mold consultation. He has extensive knowledge in the industry due to his 12 IICRC certifications including: Master Water Restorer, Master Fire and Smoke Restorer, and Residential Mold Inspector. He also has 2 OSHA Health and Safety certifications and is a Licensed Asbestos Inspector. 

There are 5 levels of mold contamination, depending on the square foot of infestation. At 10 square feet of affected area, it is recommended to call a removal company to handle the clean up SAFELY. We would never want you to put yourself in danger. It’s best to let a professional handle a situation such as this. You can trust SERVPRO of Jonesboro to follow all the required protocols necessary to handle any unsafe water losses and mold infestations.

If you experience an emergency water loss or suspect mold, call us today to set up an inspection.

SERVPRO of Jonesboro
3025 Peabody Drive | Jonesboro, AR 72404
870-604-4725 Office | www.SERVPROjonesboro.com

What are "soot tags?"

1/3/2024 (Permalink)

soot tags in a home As fire restoration & remediation specialists, SERVPRO of Jonesboro pros are used to seeing the unique and often creepy appearance of soot tags.

We all know what soot is: black smudge that often follows a fire, big or small, inside your home. You may have seen it after a candle loses its flame or the last ember dies out in your fireplace. However, when cleaning up an emergency fire’s aftermath, you may notice a strange string of web-like chains across your wall.

At first glance, it may look like you might have a spider infestation on your hands. For those with arachnophobia, don’t worry—these soot webs are actually strings of carbon and tar released from a fire called “soot tags.” To help ensure you understand how to clean up a soot-related mess, here’s a quick digest of everything you need to know about these fake spider webs or soot webs:

What are soot tags?

As fire restoration and remediation specialists, SERVPRO® of Jonesboro professionals are used to seeing the unique and often creepy appearance of soot tags. More commonly called “smoke webs” or “smoke cobwebs,” these patterns occur in low circulation areas after a fire. As the heat circulates into colder spaces, soot particles follow in chain-like formations and create webbed structures. 

How should I clean up soot tags?

Cleaning up after a fire can be tricky, and you probably want to get started right away. Still, the most critical thing to remember is to wait until professionals have cleared the space before entering.

Spending any amount of extended time in an area that’s recently had a fire can expose you to lingering soot and smoke. These particles can cause long-term damage to your health, among other concerns. Those with compromised immune systems or respiratory issues should take extra care to avoid these spaces.

After a fire, SERVPRO® of Jonesboro team members will work with firefighters and other professionals to determine when it is safe for you and your family, colleagues, or friends to reenter a building. A thorough inspection by professionals before cleanup begins will help give you the peace of mind that the environment is safe and ready for entry.

Now it’s time to get rid of those pesky soot webs. In many cases, it’s recommended that you enlist the help of professionals to get rid of your soot damage—but we’ll get to that in a moment. For a small, soot web, try the following:

- Basic cleaning: use a mixture of dish soap, warm water, and a soft sponge to gently work away the soot webs. Soot tends to feel greasy, and excess agitation can cause more damage or stains.

- Melamine sponges (Magic Erasers®): known as the magic tool of cleaning, melamine sponges are an inexpensive tool that helps remove tricky stains.

-  Remember to gently scrub as you clean: any harsh chemicals or movement can create an even greater problem.

When should I call professionals for help?

If the methods mentioned above aren’t doing the job, consider calling in the professionals. At SERVPRO® of Jonesboro, we offer comprehensive fire damage cleanup and remediation to get you back in your home or space as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Jonesboro
3025 Peabody Drive | Jonesboro, AR 72404
870-604-4725 Office | www.SERVPROjonesboro.com

Winter Warmth: A Guide to Winter Fire Safety

12/14/2023 (Permalink)

Firefighter putting out fire Did you know that heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths?

Did you know that nearly half of home heating equipment fires are reported during the months of December, January & February?

Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths. Fire departments responded to an estimated average of 44,210 fires involving heating equipment per year from 2016-2020, accounting for 13% of all reported home fires during this time, and these fires resulted in annual losses of 480 civilian deaths.

Heating fire facts:

Based on 2016-2020 annual averages:

  • Space heaters were the type of heating equipment responsible for the largest shares of losses in home heating equipment fires, accounting for one-third of the fires, but nearly nine out of ten deaths and four out of five of the injuries in home fires caused by heating equipment. 
  • Fires originating in a kitchen or cooking area accounted for the largest share of home heating fires (17%). 
  • While the larger (non-confined) fires involving fireplaces or chimneys were involved in fewer than one in ten fires caused by heating equipment (7%), they caused just over one-fifth of the direct property damage (22%).
  • Nearly half of the heating equipment fires (46%) occurred in the three-month period from December through February.

With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening. Be warm and safe this winter!

  • Keep anything that can burn at least three-feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater.
  • Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
  • Never use your oven to heat your home.
  • Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
  • Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
  • Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel burning space heaters.
  • Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home.
  • Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

Source: NFPA Research Division 

If you experience fire damage this winter SERVPRO of Jonesboro is here to help. Call us, 24/7, we're ready to respond to your emergency restoration needs. We hope you have a warm and safe winter season. Please follow these tips to ensure you and your loved ones safety. 

SERVPRO of Jonesboro
3025 Peabody Drive | Jonesboro, AR 72404
870-934-0501 Office | www.SERVPROjonesboro.com

Winterizing Your Home Like A Pro

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

Man installing a facet cover outside Protect the pipes! Frozen pipes can burst during the winter and cause major problems for homeowners.

Now is the time to get your home and business ready for the cold season. Winterization is an important process that homeowners should not neglect for their property.

The purpose of winterizing a home is to avoid higher energy costs and any damage caused by cold weather and snow. Here’s how to winterize your home properly so that it can weather the season:

  1. Clean the Gutters

Gutters are the workhorses of your home’s exterior. They direct rainwater and snow away from your roof to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage. But gutters can’t do this very important job when they’re clogged with dead leaves and other debris. Whether you hire someone to do it for you or climb a ladder yourself, make sure your gutters are clear before the first snowfall.

TIP: A telescoping gutter wand makes it easier and faster to clean your gutters.

  1. Inspect the Roof and Attic

Now’s the time to make any repairs to your roof so that it won’t leak in the rain or the snow. If you have an attic, replace or add insulation to keep drafts out.

TIP: Be sure to wear gloves whenever you are handling fiberglass insulation.

  1. Check the Chimney

If you have a fireplace, you’ll want to make sure the chimney is clear of any buildup. A dirty chimney can be a fire hazard, so hire a chimney sweep to ensure it’s clear and you can build fires safely all season.

TIP: If you don’t actively use your fireplace, inflate a chimney balloon and plug up the space to keep out the cold.

  1. Weatherproof Windows and Doors

Cold air can creep in through windows and doors, so be sure to replace any weatherstripping around them. Apply caulking to seal any gaps around windows—you can also do this for any cracks in the siding, too. Unless you have newer, energy-efficient windows, you can apply window film to keep out the cold. A door sweep installed on the bottom of your door can keep drafts out, too.

TIP: To find the source of a draft, hold a lit candle a couple of inches away from a window or door. If the flame is extinguished, apply caulking or weatherstripping to that spot.

  1. Protect the Pipes

Frozen pipes can burst during the winter and cause major problems for homeowners. Here are some things you can do to avoid this wintertime nightmare:

-Cover the exterior faucet with an insulated slip-on cover. This will prevent any remaining water from freezing. Exterior pipes should be wrapped with insulation tubing, which can be found at your local hardware store. Do not wrap your pipes with bath towels or newspaper! These coverings hold moisture like a wet rag and defeat the purpose of covering your pipes in the first place.

-Know the location of your main water shutoff so that you can access it quickly in an emergency.

TIP: If you’re going to be away from your home during the winter, be sure to keep your thermostat set to about 55 degrees Fahrenheit. A programmable thermostat makes it easy to keep your house at the right temperature so that your pipes won’t freeze.

  1. Service the HVAC system

Replace your furnace filter and schedule a service appointment so that your heating system is ready to go before you need it. This might mean scheduling a service call when you’ve got your AC pumping during the summer because service appointments can be hard to get during the height of the season.

TIP: If you live in a climate where there are four distinct seasons, have your HVAC serviced twice a year so that it runs well in both the cold weather and hot weather.

  1. Prepare Your Patio and Deck

This is particularly important if you live in a region where snow is likely. Cover patio furniture with weatherproof covers or, if possible, store it away in a garage or shed. If your deck is wooden, a fresh coat of sealant will protect it in wet weather.

TIP: Some patio furniture can be left out in the cold weather without being damaged. It all depends on the material used in making it. Teak furniture, for example, can stand up to winter, though furniture made from other types of wood cannot. When in doubt, cover or store your outdoor furniture.

  1. Ensure Snow Removal Tools Are Accessible

It’s one thing to have a gassed-up snowblower ready and waiting in your shed. But it’s another thing when a snowstorm dumps a foot of snow and you can’t get to it. Well before there is even a single flake in the forecast, be sure that all of your snow removal tools, including shovels and de-icing agents like salt and sand, are out of storage and easily accessible when snow starts to fall. This might be a small task on your winterizing list, but it’s an important one.

TIP: Need new shovels or a snow blower? Buy them any time of year except during the winter, when supplies are low and prices are high. Your best chances to catch a sale will be before or after the snowy season, but know that inventory will likely be limited if you wait until after the winter.

Source: forbes.com

Home Cooking Fire Risk Peaks on Thanksgiving Day

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

Thanksgiving Turkey Don't burn the bird (or anything else!)

The holiday season is almost here, and it is a time when home cooking activities are at their peak. Unfortunately, all this cooking leads to a related peak in cooking fires. Cooking fires are responsible for nearly half (49%) of all home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). To help keep your holidays from, literally, going up in smoke, it’s critical to know and use safe cooking practices.

According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home cooking fires, with more than three times the daily average for such incidents. The NFPA urges home cooks to take some basic safety steps to help prevent cooking fires.

Keep your cooking area clean and keep anything that can burn (dish towels, oven mitts, packaging) at least three feet away from cooking equipment.

Keep a close eye on what’s cooking, setting a timer to help you monitor foods with longer cooking times.

Keep in mind that the leading contributing factor to cooking fires and to fire deaths overall is unattended cooking, so plan to be at home and in or near the kitchen at all times when cooking.

For those who use a turkey fryer to cook their Thanksgiving bird, it’s important to note that more than two-thirds of home cooking fires begin with the ignition of cooking materials, including food, fat, and grease. The NFPA strongly discourages the use of these fryers. They use large amounts of oil at high temperatures, which can lead to the type of fire seen here2. If you do use one, follow all placement, use, and safety instructions carefully.

If the unexpected does happen, SERVPRO of Jonesboro specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup, and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on SERVPRO of Jonesboro, please contact us at 870-934-0501 or cpark@SERVPROjonesboro.com. For more information on SERVPRO®, please visit SERVPROjonesboro.com.

Source: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Thanksgiving

Preventative Fall Home Inspection for Unexpected Damage

10/10/2023 (Permalink)

real estate agent looking at house model with magnifying glass A preventative home inspection could save you thousands per year. Don't ignore the signs as temperatures drop.

SERVPRO of Jonesboro understands the importance of home maintenance. In order to maintain a home that will withstand the Fall season, you must maintain a good DIY inspection. This will allow you to sniff out damage before it occurs. Ensuring your home’s maintenance is up to par will also allow you to save thousands of dollars each season. Here are some ways you can inspect your home for damage:

  1. Plumbing – Do you have a slow-draining sink? Do you have hair, or a buildup of debris stuck deep down in your pipes? Testing your drains can allow you to observe which drains have plumbing issues. Check your pipes for leaks, as well as letting your faucet run to see if the drains are clogged. This will allow you to see which faucet has insufficient water pressure.
  2. Walls, Ceilings, and Flooring – What type of spots do you see on the walls, ceilings, and flooring? When you inspect your surfaces, you want to essentially look for water damage or mold. If you see discolored spots in your walls, ceiling, or flooring, you should inspect that area more and call a professional, like SERVPRO of Jonesboro. These water spots could mean serious problems, even with the insulation.
  3. Electrical System – Are your lights flickering on and off? When was the last time you changed the bulbs in your home? Switching your light switch on and off will not suffice in this case. You will want to keep an eye out for electrical outlets and switches. Testing outlets with a receptacle tester to make sure everything is wired correctly will be efficient enough to ensure everything is wired correctly.
  4. The Furnace – How old is your furnace? Checking the age of your furnace is one of the most important things you can do. A furnace’s life span is around 20-25 years, and a well-maintained furnace can last up to 30 or 40 years.
  5. Windows – Are your windows insulated correctly? Insulating your windows can save you money on your heating and cooling bills as it increases your home’s energy efficiency. Examine your windows for fogginess as well. Although it is not cheap, fogged windows will need to be replaced. This is because water is trapped inside and no amount of wiping or cleaning the panes will clear the foggy film. The excessive condensation on the windows may be the result of a failed heat exchanger or an ailing furnace (although it could be other factors too).
  6. Exterior Structure –Are your shingles laying properly? Do you have shingles missing? Inspect your shingles, age is not the best indicator of potential problems. Cupping, curling, cracking, and rounded edges are signs that those shingles need to be replaced.
  7. Insurance – Is your home insurance up to date? Does your home insurance include water damage, fire damage, mold remediation, and storm damage? Home insurance could save you a ton of out-of-pocket expenses per year. Safeguard your home and your family by ensuring you don’t experience a total loss.

You can create your own list of seasonal maintenance requirements or utilize this list SERVPRO of Jonesboro has created for you. This will give you more time to catch inaccuracies within your home before it is too late. Fire damage is the most expensive restoration service, this could cost you up to $30,000. Storm damage is just as costly. Having an inspection sheet will allow you to ensure your home and personal items are less at risk of a total loss. Stay in your home by taking care of your home with these preventative measures.

Sources:

https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/diy-home-inspection-tools/

What Will Fail a Home Inspection? Seven Items to Look Out For (tchabitat.org)  

SERVPRO of Jonesboro NEA First Responder Hero Day 2023

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

first responder chiefs with the mayor Photography by James Bickham

In a world where chaos and emergencies often take center stage, it's the first responders who stand as the pillars of strength and support. These dedicated individuals selflessly rush to the aid of those in need, often risking their own lives to ensure our safety and well-being. To express gratitude and appreciation for their unwavering dedication, SERVPRO of Jonesboro recently hosted a heartwarming event at Judd Hill Farmers' Market, bringing together the community to celebrate and honor our local first responders.

On a sunny Monday morning, the grounds of Judd Hill Farmers' Market were transformed into a hub of warmth and gratitude. The event, organized by SERVPRO of Jonesboro amongst several sponsors, was a beautiful tribute to the brave men and women who work tirelessly to keep our community safe.

The event was a true feast for the senses, featuring a variety of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a mouthwatering assortment of sweets, all generously provided by local sponsors. Attendees were treated to a delectable spread that catered to every palate, creating an inviting atmosphere that encouraged camaraderie and conversation.

The day began with a heartfelt welcome speech from the team at SERVPRO of Jonesboro, expressing their deep appreciation for the first responders who consistently put the community's needs before their own. Their dedication and sacrifice were acknowledged with respect and admiration.

Local firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and other first responders, along with their families, enjoyed the festivities, taking a well-deserved break from their demanding roles. The event provided an opportunity for them to connect with one another, sharing stories and experiences that only those in their line of work can truly understand.

A highlight of the event was the heartwarming interactions between the first responders and the community members who turned out to show their support. As each speaker spoke their words of gratitude and encouragement, you could tell they truly had a passion for what was taking place. Throughout the day, gratitude was in the air. Jonesboro Firefighters Bags and Pipes even played the National Anthem and it was spectacular. 

Although it takes a team of dedicated individuals to become successful in putting service above self-daily, awards were presented to outstanding individuals in each department. The recipients include:

  • Jamie Seaborn – Police department
  • Bill Vacco – Fire department
  • Cody Latner – Sheriff’s department
  • Billy Brown – Emerson Ambulance
  • Hurricane Deployment Team – Medic One

As the event ended, the first responders departed with a newfound sense of appreciation and a community that stands behind them. SERVPRO of Jonesboro's commitment to recognizing the invaluable service of these brave individuals left a lasting mark on the hearts of all who attended.

The event at Judd Hill Farmers' Market was a testament to the power of community support and the importance of showing gratitude to our local heroes. It served as a reminder that, in times of crisis, we are not alone but surrounded by a caring and appreciative community ready to lend a helping hand.

SERVPRO of Jonesboro's gesture of hosting this event for our first responders is a shining example of how a small act of kindness can have a profound impact on our community. It reminds us that, by coming together and expressing our gratitude, we can create a more connected and compassionate society. They are the ones who run toward danger when we run away, and they deserve our unwavering support and gratitude.

Read more about this event in the Jonesboro Sun newspaper!