The Importance of Drying During Water Mitigation in Clearwater

7/7/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO knows how to deal with water damage quickly and effectively. Contact us 24/7 for certified technicians and equipment.

Approaches to Fix Clearwater Water Damage - with SERVPRO®

The Tocobaga people initially inhabited Present-day Clearwater. The city has several unique attributes which make it stand out. Clearwater Beach ranks among the top beaches in the nation and is known for its clear blue waters, white sands, and vibrant beach culture. Other popular spots include Clearwater Beach-Clearwater and Sand Key Beach. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is also a unique aspect known for rehabilitating marine animals like the famous Winter Dolphin. The Coachman Park, located on the waterfront, offers scenic views and hosts festivals and concerts. The city also sparks lively events annually, like the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, which takes place in October. The four-day music festival event attracts top jazz musicians and thousands of fans. 

Proper water mitigation in Clearwater is essential to protecting your home, as the region is susceptible to heavy rains and tropical storms. The mitigation process includes several crucial steps, the goal of which is to minimize the long-term moisture impact on your home. SERVPRO implements prompt and thorough water mitigation practices, reducing the effects of water damage and saving you from incurring substantial repair costs. Water damage may also present hazardous situations, such as exposure to contaminated water; we promptly ensure the property is safe by addressing such risks.  

The critical step in Water mitigation  

• Water extraction 
• Drying 
• Sanitization 

Before drying, SERVPRO crews extract standing water using extraction units, deep extraction tools, and submersible pumps. This physical removal of water minimizes the spread of moisture and reduces drying time. 

Approaches to Drying a Property 

To dry a property effectively, detailed detection and continuous monitoring of moisture levels are required. SERVPRO crews employ moisture detection tools, including moisture meters, which check the moisture content in various materials, and infrared cameras, which detect temperature variations in building materials. Such precise detection allows for targeted drying, reducing the need for extensive reconstruction.  

Tools that facilitate drying  

• Low Grain Refrigerant Dehumidifiers 
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers 
• Air Movers 

An LGR dehumidifier is quite effective at removing moisture from the air. It can dry an area to a lower humidity ratio, speeding up the drying process as humidity in the affected area drops. This makes it ideal for drying hardwood floors and other complex materials. Also, it continues to operate effectively even when the air dries below 35 gpp.  

SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach ensures thorough water mitigation. Call us at (727) 614-0099. Faster to any size disaster™.

Fire Damage Help in Clearwater

5/13/2024 (Permalink)

With advanced equipment, SERVPRO restores property to pre-damaged conditions. "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Can Help with Fire Damage Cleanup, Restoration, and Repair in Clearwater

Clearwater got its name, not surprisingly, from the many clear water springs that emptied into the bay. The springs no longer empty into the bay. The area was settled by colonists in the 1830s and quickly became known as a resort in the 1890s. Today, it is a bustling community that entertains many tourists throughout the year.

SERVPRO® provides fire damage cleanup in Clearwater and many other services to our clients dealing with devastating damage to their homes or businesses. Even small kitchen fires create copious amounts of smoke and odors, which can quickly penetrate every room in the building. The immediate fire damage may be contained to the kitchen area, cupboards, walls, and floors. Fire retardant chemicals are also present. The fire may also damage appliances or may also be covered with soot and smoke residues.

Our SERVPRO team can help manage the challenge of recovering from the devastating damage caused by a fire. Our rapid response also mitigates the secondary damage caused by exposure of your home and contents to water, fire retardants, and smoke residues. The following steps are critical to the successful cleanup and restoration of your home after a fire:

• Call SERVPRO for help as soon as possible. We are onsite within four hours of your call.
• Our team inspects and assesses the damage caused by the fire, develops a plan, and begins cleanup of your home or business.
• We provide emergency services to cover broken windows, doors, and roofs.
• We use hi-capacity pumps, air movers, and dehumidifiers to remove water and dry your home.
• Our team removes smoke and soot from all surfaces.
• We clean and sanitize all surfaces, porous and nonporous materials, including other rooms in your home that contain smoke odors
• Restoration includes repairing or replacing damaged flooring, walls, cupboards, electrical, plumbing, and appliances.

Call for help with fire damage cleanup, restoration, and repairs at SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach and nearby areas. Call (727) 614-0099.   

Hurricane Preparedness for Clearwater Beach Residents

5/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO advises all Clearwater and Pinellas Coucnty residents to be prepared for Hurricane Season. We are Faster to any size disaster™.

Proactive Planning Can Mitigate Hurricane Damage

As hurricane season approaches on June 1st, Clearwater residents must take specific steps to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their properties. This guide, provided by SERVPRO® of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach, outlines measures that can be taken before, during, and after a hurricane if residents are required to evacuate.

Before the Storm

Residents should prepare emergency kits containing fresh water, shelf-stable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, an emergency radio, and important documents stored in waterproof containers. Learn your local evacuation routes and prepare a plan for a quick departure. Keep vehicles fueled and stocked, monitor weather conditions carefully, and evacuate before the storms hit. Whenever feasible, leave the area before a mandatory evacuation is issued. Consider going to a hotel or staying with family in another city. If necessary, make use of a public evacuation shelter.

During the Storm

Once the storm hits, stay indoors and away from windows. If your Internet or cellular signal access is interrupted, monitor the storm's progress via a battery-powered emergency radio. Focus on conserving cell phone battery life if there is an outage.

You will need to evacuate your home if you meet the following criteria:

• You live in a mobile home park.
• You live in an evacuation zone.
• You are in a designated evacuation zone, even if you do not live there.

Pinellas County offers multiple means of finding your evacuation zone online, on mobile, or by calling (727) 464-3800.

After the Storm

Residents who evacuated their homes should wait to return until an all-clear order has been issued. Drive slowly and carefully back to your home, avoiding trees, downed power lines, standing water, and other hazards.

Assess the damage to your property cautiously, starting with the home’s exterior. Leave if you notice a gas leak, standing water, or fire damage. If it is safe, document the damage with photographs or videos, which will be necessary for filing insurance claims.

SERVPRO is Here to Help®

SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach is ready to assist if your property is damaged. Our technicians are IICRC-certified and can perform water extraction, deploy OSHA-approved antimicrobial solutions, and implement structural drying, mold remediation, and reconstruction services. SERVPRO also assists with billing insurers, documentation, and paperwork processing.

Consider signing up early for our Storm Emergency List to ensure prompt service following a disaster. Call (727) 614-0099 anytime for 24/7 restoration services from our team of licensed, insured contractors.

Expert Commercial Water Removal in Clearwater Data Centers

3/10/2024 (Permalink)

If your business is affected by water damage, SERVPRO can help you get it back up and running in no time. Contact SERVPRO 24/7.

Managing Water Damage Around IT Infrastructure

In the sunny city of Clearwater, businesses must stay vigilant against the unpredictability of water damage. Notably, commercial spaces like data centers, with their complex infrastructure, require immediate attention when facing water intrusion. Fast, effective water restoration services are essential to prevent long-term issues and quickly get operations back on track.

The Critical Need for Swift Action 

Clearwater businesses requiring commercial water removal services, particularly data centers, face immediate operational risks. The proximity of water to sensitive electronics can lead to significant issues, making quick extraction necessary. In Florida, where humidity can be challenging, adding unwanted water heightens the urgency for professional intervention.

Common Water-Related Challenges in Data Centers

Water damage in Clearwater commercial properties can manifest in several problematic ways, including:

• Short circuits and electrical hazards due to water contact with electronic devices.
• Corrosion and deterioration of critical infrastructure.
• Mold growth due to excess moisture poses health risks and potential equipment damage.
• Disruption of normal business operations leads to financial losses.

SERVPRO®'s Approach to Commercial Water Restoration

Clearwater businesses turn to SERVPRO for their expertise and advanced techniques when facing commercial water cleanup needs. Their approach includes:

• Immediate assessment and inspection to understand the extent of damage.
• Water extraction uses powerful pumps and vacuum units to remove high volumes of water.
• Drying and dehumidification using industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to address residual moisture.
• Move out of equipment when containment is not enough during mitigation.

SERVPRO's professional team uses specialized equipment like infrared cameras to detect hidden water behind walls and subflooring, ensuring a thorough water extraction process. Their commitment to efficiently restoring commercial spaces allows Clearwater businesses to minimize downtime and resume normal operations as quickly as possible.

Clearwater businesses facing commercial water removal challenges can rely on SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach's quick and professional restoration services at (727) 614-0099 to make water damage "Like it never even happened."

Clearwater Mold Assessment and Mitigation Services

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

Differentiating Assessment from Remediation. Trust SERVPRO of Clearwater South/Clearwater Beach for expert remediation.

Testing Properties for Mold to Ensure Thorough Remediation

Clearwater properties affected by water damage frequently also contain mold damage if the excess moisture has persisted for more than 24 hours. What makes mold especially challenging to remediate without specialized care is its resilience and ability to cling to surfaces with specialized filaments, called hyphae, anchored into surfaces by rhizoids, which are similar to plant roots.

Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) certified professionals at SERVPRO® render remediation services compliant with local regulations. We can also provide guidance on whether a Clearwater property’s specific mold damage situation requires testing by an assessor.

The Role and Importance of Mold Assessment

Mold assessment is a service typically reserved for larger residential and commercial remediation needs. Licensed mold assessors focus on the following:

• Diagnosing microbial growth type, location, and population density via collecting spore samples from surfaces and the air.
• Determining the presence of elevated moisture levels through the use of moisture sensors and thermal imaging devices.
• Preparing samples for lab testing before mold remediation and drafting detailed reports on findings.

Mold assessors’ reports aid remediation professionals in planning spore reduction strategies that best suit a property’s unique composition and needs. Assessors also conduct post-assessments to ensure that remediation services comply with local and state protocols. 

The Mold Remediation Process as Performed by SERVPRO

After assessment and testing, remediation technicians can formulate a mold mitigation plan. SERVPRO carefully observes Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) protocols during the process, which includes:

• HEPA filtration during microbial containment and collection, namely in air filtration and vacuuming equipment.
• OSHA-approved, EPA-registered antimicrobials, applied manually or dispensed with sprayers, aid in mold and malodor reduction.
• Containment procedures, such as sealing ducts and erecting temporary containment areas with polyethylene sheeting, to further prevent spore travel.

SERVPRO can perform remodeling, rebuilding, and mold remediation services under the following licenses:

• General Contractor License #CBC1250662
• Mold Remediation License #MRSR1163

Call (727) 614-0099 for Faster to any size disaster™ inspection, mitigation, and restoration services by SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach.

Any Size Storm Can Leave Clearwater Houses with Flood Damage

1/8/2024 (Permalink)

If your Clearwater home has storm damage, call SERVPRO. We're Faster to any size disaster™.

SERVPRO® Mitigates Destructive Flooding From Storms

Storms do not have to come from hurricanes to leave homes and shops in Clearwater soaked. When runoff patterns have changed or are blocked, flood damage can happen with regular rainfall.

Let SERVPRO of Clearwater mitigate the flood damage on your property. We are Faster to any size disaster™ and come prepared to start the mitigation process. There are several facets of flood damage, including water damage, odors, and microbial infestations. We partner with you to ensure we answer all your questions and concerns.

The first steps to mitigating flood damage, especially after a storm, focus on ensuring safety, rinsing and clearing debris, and spraying disinfectant agents to minimize risk. Additional measures include:

• Extracting standing water,
• Drying the structure and
• Odor control measures.

Drying happens faster when there is less water, so extracting water goes a long way toward protecting your residence from flooding, mold, and water damage. We also go after water in hidden spots, including under cabinets with built-in floors and within the lowest portion of stairwells.

Just as in situations involving water damage, we use heat and intensified airflow to remove moisture from the air and contents inside the structure. Warmer air increases how fast moisture evaporates, making it possible to push it through one of our desiccant machines. 

Clean water can cause fiercely sharp odors, but flood damage can leave your home smelling so much worse. SERVPRO's odor control technicians (OCTs) use different methods to fight these odors. Eliminating the cause of an odor is not always possible, so masking techniques might be the only option until the odor naturally dissipates. We discuss which scents your family likes best and then apply them strategically. Charcoal pellets can absorb several odors, making them a safe standby for foul odors.

When you need an expert mitigation team to protect your home from flood damage, call SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach at (727) 614-0099.

Effective Mold Damage Restoration in Clearwater

11/12/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO tackles moisture problems and then removes visible mold colonies, and applies fungicides. Clearwater homeowners trust us.

Mold Remediation Right Where You Need It

Clearwater is rapidly becoming one of the premier destinations of Pinellas County. Known for its favorable weather and direct connection to many types of marine life, the population has skyrocketed in the past decades, pushing nearly 110,000 people. This boom does not mean that there are not historically significant properties and places in the community serving as the county seat, many of which can be found on historic Cleveland Street and dating back even farther than the founding of Clearwater.

While the coastal community might be a draw to thousands, it can also lead to a need for mold damage restoration in Clearwater properties with the humidity it can cause. The position on the Gulf Coast has made it an ideal location for its conservation and marine rescue efforts, most recognizably at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. This location gained notoriety and fame for telling the story of one of its famous residents, Winter, in the acclaimed family film Dolphin Tale released in 2011.

SERVPRO® finds the mold in your property

While we might not be able to engineer ways to improve the quality of marine life, we can make your home cleaner, safer, and drier when exposed to mold. The first step is tracking the damage with moisture sensors and sampling tactics. We can develop a custom remediation plan to remove active colonies and protect exposed elements from here. Familiar places to find mold growth in your home include:

• Bathroom
• Kitchen
• Attic
• Garage

Coastal communities like the ever-growing Clearwater can suffer severe weather and high humidity throughout most of the year. When this becomes water and mold damage in your home, you need professional remediation assistance to make it right. SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach is ready 24/7 with quick cleaning and restoration strategies at (727) 614-0099.

Water Damage Repair in Clearwater

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Clearwater for water damage removal or repair. We are Here to Help® 24/7.

Clearwater Residents Trust SERVPRO® with Water Damage Repair

Blessed with arguably the best beaches in the country, Clearwater is home to over 115,000 people. The city perfectly blends modern architecture with fantastic historic buildings, especially on Cleveland Street. The town is quite popular among national and international tourists, with major tourist attractions like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Plumb House Museum, and the Church of Scientology's spiritual headquarters. With the city's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the potential for severe weather, homeowners and business owners must be prepared for water damage emergencies.

SERVPRO's IICRC-certified technicians can help you with water damage repair of your Clearwater home and prevent the situation from going out of hand. Our techs use state-of-the-art technology and equipment and repair the water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Controlling Humidity During Water Restoration 

Controlling humidity is a crucial aspect of a water restoration project. SERVPRO technicians use dehumidifiers and air movers to speed up drying and efficiently remove moisture from wet surfaces. SERVPRO techs use the following types of dehumidifiers during water cleanup-

• Refrigerant Dehumidifiers draw in humid air and pass it over a cold coil, condensing the air's moisture. 
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers use a moisture-absorbing material, such as charcoal and silica gel, to remove moisture from the air. 
• Low-grain refrigerant (LGR) dehumidifiers can remove more moisture from the air by cooling it to a lower temperature than traditional refrigerant dehumidifiers.

Water damage incidents are unfortunately not uncommon in Clearwater. Hurricane Eta and Hurricane Iota caused significant damage to the historic Capitol Theatre and Clearwater Beach Pier in 2020. Eateries like Frenchy's Rockaway Grill and Pearly's Beach Eats also suffered substantial damages. SERVPRO techs are here to help you when you need us the most. 

Call SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach at (727) 614-0099. Our dedicated and experienced technicians are available 24/7 to help you. 

Clearwater Professional Fire Damage Restoration Services

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today if you need help with professional fire damage restoration.

SERVPRO is Available for Fire Damage Cleanup

Proximity to the Gulf and Tampa Bay, Clearwater never has a shortage of areas to explore and enjoy. Whether you live, work in, or visit the region often, this place is rich in history and culture. Home or business owners know they can count on SERVPRO for restoration needs, including fire and smoke odor cleanup. All you need is to call us 24/7, and we can be there within hours to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Aside from SERVPRO for fire damage restoration in Clearwater, many outstanding businesses make the region what it is today. Some of the local restaurants and hotspots in the area include:

• O’Keefe’s Tavern: If you are looking for a classic Irish pub with incredible beers on tap and standard fare like Shepherd’s Pie, then O’Keefe’s is the place to go. The atmosphere is lively, the staff is friendly, and there are always delectable food specials to choose from. Should you be in town in March, you will find they have St. Patrick’s festivities span several days. 
• Clearwater Marine Aquarium: This aquarium is a beautiful way to learn about rehabilitation and rescues while experiencing the fantastic sea life living onsite. There are boat rides, guided tours, virtual reality experiences, and excellent shopping all within one location. Plan the day with the kids, and bring a camera to capture the memories.
• Craft Beer Trail: If you love craft beers, the Craft Beer Trail features several well-loved establishments, including the Clearwater Brewing Company, Southern Lights Brewing, Big Storm Brewing, and Grindhaus Brew Lab. Planning a day to check out these watering holes will allow you to experience seasonal brews, triple IPAs, delicious porters, and refreshing pilsners.

Whether you experienced a fire in your Clearwater restaurant or have smoke damage to your apartment complex after a nearby blaze, SERVPRO of Clearwater South/Clearwater Beach is here to help. Call us at (727) 614-0099 or request support online for professional fire damage restoration services. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, arriving within hours of your initial call to begin assessment and cleanup.

Water Damage Repair in Clearwater Happens Fast with SERVPRO

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage? Help is no further than SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach. Call us today!

SERVPRO Is a Trusted Name in Water Damage Repair in Clearwater   

A water incident can cause severe damage to your property if not controlled and restored in time. It is essential to hire professionals like SERVPRO for water damage repair of your Clearwater home to get things under control before they get out of hand. 

Professional restorers like SERVPRO have the expertise, equipment, and training needed for a fast and efficient water damage repair of your Clearwater home. Our techs use the latest technology during water cleanup to restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

How SERVPRO Techs use Drying Science in Water Cleanup? 

The priority of SERVPRO techs during the restoration of water damage is to create ideal conditions for drying. Techs manipulate the humidity, temperature, and airflow to speed up the evaporation of the moisture absorbed within the wet surfaces.

•    Humidity: Lower the moisture content of the drying air, the faster the evaporation rate. SERVPRO techs use different types of dehumidifiers to remove the water vapor from the air by condensing it back to liquid water. Strategically placed dehumidifiers can significantly increase the evaporation rate and reduce the drying time. 
•    Airflow: As water evaporates from wet materials, the air directly above the damp surface becomes cooler and saturated with moisture. This boundary layer of humid, cool air can slow evaporation. SERVPRO techs use axial and centrifugal air movers to remove this boundary layer and replace it with warm, dry air from the dehumidifiers. 
•    Temperature: The water vapor holding capacity of warm air is more than colder air. SERVPRO techs use portable heaters to warm the air to hold more water and speed up the drying rate. 

SERVPRO techs have the experience and expertise to monitor and control these factors, ensuring your property is restored to a preloss condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Clearwater South / Clearwater Beach at (727) 614-0099. Our restoration experts are available 24/7 to help you.