Dealing with Flooding in North Carolina?

7/20/2023 (Permalink)

Did You Know? Flooding is North Carolina's second-most common NATURAL hazard, OCCURRING on average every seven and a half days.

Did you know that flooding is North Carolina's second-most common natural hazard, with occurrences happening on average every seven and a half days?

In such challenging times, it's crucial to have a trusted restoration partner by your side. That's where SERVPRO® of Lexington/Thomasville comes in. 

Faster to any size disaster™:

When disaster strikes, timing is everything. SERVPRO® of Lexington/Thomasville understands the urgency and aims to be "Faster to any size disaster™."

Our highly trained professionals are equipped with advanced tools and techniques to promptly respond and restore your property. We work diligently to make sure your property looks "Like it never even happened."

Meet Team Carlson -Part of the SERVPRO® Storm Response Team:

At SERVPRO® of Lexington/Thomasville, we take pride in being recognized as part of the SERVPRO® Storm Response Team. Our dedicated team, led by Team Carlson, is on call 24/7, ready to assist other SERVPRO® franchises across the United States without hesitation. This allows us to provide support and expertise to communities facing natural disasters anywhere in the country. 

When faced with the aftermath of flooding, you need a reliable and experienced team to help restore your property and bring back normalcy.

SERVPRO® of Lexington/Thomasville is Here to Help®

With our commitment to prompt response, exceptional service, and being part of the SERVPRO® Storm Response Team, we are your trusted restoration partner. 

Contact us today at 336-224-2565 to learn more about our services and how we can assist you during difficult times.

You can also visit our website at www.SERVPROlexingtonthomasville.com and follow our social media accounts for daily tips and information!  

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SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is prepared to handle #anysizedisaster!

6/19/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville Storm Response Team

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville's Storm Response Team are a highly trained and experienced group of professionals who are ready to respond to any storm-related emergency. We have the expertise and equipment necessary to handle everything from minor water damage to major flooding and storm damage. Our readiness is unmatched, with a 24/7 emergency response team that is always on call and ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

When it comes to storm response, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is second to none. We have a comprehensive approach to storm damage restoration that includes everything from initial assessment and cleanup to complete restoration and reconstruction. Our team is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and technology, including moisture meters, air movers, and dehumidifiers, to ensure that every job is done right the first time.

In addition to our expertise and equipment, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville's Storm Response Team is also committed to providing exceptional customer service. We understand that dealing with storm damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, and they work hard to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We are always available to answer questions, provide updates, and offer guidance throughout the restoration process.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and experienced storm response team, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is the way to go. With our expertise, equipment, and commitment to customer service, you can rest assured that your storm damage restoration needs will be taken care of quickly and efficiently.

What Can Storms Do to Your Home? How Can You Prevent Damage?

5/20/2023 (Permalink)

What Can Storms Do to Your Home? How Can You Prevent Damage?

What Can Storms Do to Your Home? How Can You Prevent Damage?

When a storm hits, it can cause much damage to your home. From strong winds to heavy rain, storms can wreak havoc on your property and cause significant structural damage.

Some of the damage that can be done to your home during a storm include:

1. Roof damage:

• Strong winds can cause shingles to blow off your roof, exposing it to water damage. This can lead to leaks and further damage to your home's interior.

2. Water damage:

• Heavy rain can also lead to water damage inside your home, especially if your roof is damaged or your gutters are clogged.

3. Debris damage:

• Flying debris during a storm can cause damage to your windows, doors, and siding.

4. Electrical damage:

• Lightning strikes can cause electrical damage to your home and appliances.
• Power surges can also occur when power is restored after a storm.

5. Foundation damage:

• Heavy rains and flooding can cause foundation damage to your home's structure.

So, what can you do to prevent damage to your home during a storm? Here are some tips:

1. Regular maintenance:

• Regularly maintaining your roof, gutters, and windows can prevent damage during a storm.
• Make sure to clean your gutters and remove any debris that might clog them.

2. Reinforce your roof:

• You can reinforce your roof with materials like hurricane clips and straps to prevent damage during high winds.

3. Seal your windows and doors:

• Sealing your windows and doors can prevent water and debris from entering your home.

4. Install surge protection:

• Installing surge protection can help prevent electrical damage during a storm.

5. Elevate your home:

• If you live in an area prone to flooding, elevating your home can help prevent foundation damage.

By taking these steps, you can help prevent damage to your home during a storm. However, if your home does sustain any damage, it must be professionally inspected and repaired as soon as possible. A quick response can help prevent further damage and ensure the safety of your home and family.

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. We are #fastertoanysizedisaster and make any disaster #likeitneverevenhappened. We are backed by 50 years of training and experience through our parent company SERVPRO. We are locally owned and operated and are active community members. Give us a call for any of your storm damage needs. 336-224-2565!

Storm Preparation: How to Stay Safe and Be Ready

5/8/2023 (Permalink)

Storm Preparation: How to Stay Safe and Be Ready

Storm Preparation: How to Stay Safe and Be Ready

Natural disasters like storms can strike at any time, so it is important to be prepared and stay safe. With proper preparation, you can minimize the damage to your property and protect your family during a storm.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the next storm:

1. Create an Emergency Plan

• Before a storm hits, create an emergency plan for your family.
• This plan should include communication and evacuation procedures.
• Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do in an emergency and where to meet if you are separated.

2. Stock Up on Supplies

• Make sure you have enough food, water, and medical supplies to last at least three days.
• Stock up on batteries, flashlights, and other emergency supplies.
• It's also a good idea to keep a supply of cash on hand, as ATMs and credit card machines may not be available during a power outage.

3. Protect Your Home

• Inspect your home to ensure that it is structurally sound and can withstand high winds and heavy rain.
• Trim trees near your home to prevent them from falling onto your roof, and clear gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding.
• Cover windows and doors with hurricane shutters or plywood to protect against flying debris.

4. Stay Informed

• Stay informed about the storm by monitoring local news stations and weather apps.
• Follow instructions from local authorities and evacuate if instructed to do so.
• If you cannot evacuate, stay indoors and away from windows and doors.

5. After the Storm

• After the storm has passed, inspect your property for damage.
• If you have suffered damage, contact your insurance company, and begin filing a claim.
• Take photos of the damage for documentation purposes.
• Call SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville at 336-224-2565.
  • We will work directly with the insurance adjuster and help make the claims process more manageable, allowing you to get back into your home in the condition #likeitneverevenhappened.
  • We are #fastertoanysizedisaster and take pride in treating our clients like family.
  • We are locally owned and operated and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
  • There is no job too big or too small for us to handle!

In conclusion, preparing for a storm is essential for staying safe and minimizing damage. Following these tips can help protect your family and your property during a storm.

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is recognized as a Storm Team, and we are equipped to handle all storm damage cleanup and restoration aspects.

4/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is recognized as a Storm Team, and we are equipped to handle all storm damage cleanup and restoration aspects.

When a storm hits and causes damage to a property, it can feel overwhelming and chaotic. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is recognized as a Storm Team, and we are equipped to handle all storm damage cleanup and restoration aspects. Our company’s trained technicians are available 24/7 to help people recover from the impact of a storm.

Here are a few ways that SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville assists with storm damage:

1. Emergency Response:

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville understands that storms can hit unexpectedly and require a quick response. When you call SERVPRO, a trained technician will arrive on-site as quickly as possible to assess the damage and start the cleanup process.

2. Water and Flood Damage Restoration:

Storms can cause flooding or water damage to properties. SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville has the equipment and expertise to extract water, dry the area, and prevent mold growth.

3. Tree Damage:

When trees or large branches fall on a property and cause damage, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville can remove the debris, repair the structure, and prevent further damage.

4. Roof Repairs:

Storms can damage roofs, potentially creating leaks and causing further damage to the property. SERVPRO technicians can repair or replace damaged roofs to prevent further water damage.

5. Document Restoration:

Storms can also damage important documents, photographs, or books. SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville has specialized equipment and techniques to restore and preserve damaged items for future use carefully.

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville has extensive experience restoring residential and commercial properties that have experienced storm damage. No matter how big or small the project is, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is committed to restoring the property to pre-storm condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.

At SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville, we understand the urgency of water damage to your roof.

4/20/2023 (Permalink)

Dealing with water damage to your roof can be a significant headache. SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is #heretohelp!

Dealing with water damage to your roof can be a major headache. Not only can water cause significant damage to the structure of your home, but it can also lead to the growth of dangerous mold and mildew. If you suspect that your roof has been damaged by water, it's crucial to call in the professionals right away.

That's where SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville comes in. At SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville, we specialize in cleaning and restoring properties damaged by water, fire, or other disasters. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped to handle all aspects of roof water damage, from initial assessment to final repairs.

So why is it essential to address water damage to your roof as soon as possible? Here are just a few reasons:

1. Prevents further damage:

 If left unaddressed, water damage can continue to spread, causing even more damage to your home. Addressing the problem quickly can help prevent further damage and mitigate the costs of repairs.

2. Reduces the risk of structural damage:

When water infiltrates your roof, it can soak into the wooden structure of your home, leading to rot, mold, and mildew. Over time, this can weaken the structure of your home and lead to even more expensive repairs down the line.

3. Improves indoor air quality:

Mold and mildew are common byproducts of water damage and can be dangerous to your health. By quickly addressing water damage to your roof, you can prevent mold growth and improve your home's indoor air quality.

At SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville, we understand the urgency of water damage to your roof. That's why we offer 24/7 emergency services to help you get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment.

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville, a leading provider of restoration services, can help you restore your home to its pre-flood condition.

4/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville, a leading provider of restoration services, can help you restore your home to its pre-flood condition.

Flood damage to your home can be a catastrophic experience. The effects can be devastating, whether a pipe bursts, the water heater fails, or natural disaster floods. If you ever experience a flood in your home, acting quickly to minimize the damage is essential.

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville, a leading provider of restoration services, can help you restore your home to its pre-flood condition.

The first step in restoring your home after a flood is to evacuate the water. SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville uses high-powered pumps and specialized vacuums to remove excess water from your home. Once the water has been extracted, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville’s trained technicians will use specialized equipment to dry out any remaining moisture, including dehumidifiers and air movers.

If flood damage has caused structural damage to your home, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville can also rebuild any damaged areas. Our company has a team of licensed contractors who can repair or replace damaged flooring, walls, and ceilings. Plus, we will work directly with your insurance company to ensure you receive fair and timely repair compensation.

SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville also provides mold remediation services to prevent mold growth after a flood. Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24-48 hours after water damage occurs, so it is essential to act quickly to prevent it from becoming a more significant issue. Our team will use specialized equipment to detect and remove any mold growth and disinfect the affected areas to reduce the risk of future mold growth.

Lastly, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville also offers document drying services for any important documents that may have been damaged during the flood. Our team will work to quickly and accurately dry out any documents to prevent them from being ruined, sanitizing them so they can be used again.

In conclusion, if you ever find yourself dealing with flood damage in your home, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is a trusted and reliable company that can help you recover. Our specialized equipment, trained technicians, and extensive experience with insurance claims will ensure that your home is restored to its pre-flood condition as soon as possible.

April Showers Bring May Flowers; Those same rain showers can cause significant damage to your property if your are not properly prepared.

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Homeowners don't always anticipate the potential for water damage during the spring seasons.

Regarding the changing seasons, homeowners know that April showers bring May flowers. But homeowners don't always anticipate the potential for water damage that can come with those showers.

During this time of year, homeowners may struggle with water damage caused by heavy rains, flooding, and leaks. Here are some tips to help you avoid and deal with water damage during the rainy season:

1. Check your gutters and downspouts:

-Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and free of debris. Blocked drains can cause water to overflow and seep into your home's foundation, causing damage to your walls and floors.

2. Seal windows and doors:

-Check your windows and doors to make sure they are adequately sealed. This will help prevent rainwater from seeping into your home and causing damage.

3. Fix leaks:

-If you have leaks in your roof or plumbing, fix them immediately. Even minor leaks can cause significant damage over time, so don't put off repairs.

4. Monitor your sump pump:

-If you have a sump pump, ensure it works properly. A sump pump can help prevent basement flooding, but it will only be good if it’s working when needed.

5. Be prepared:

-If you live in an area prone to flooding, make sure you have a plan in place in case of an emergency. This might include having a sump pump backup, sandbags, or other supplies.

If you do experience water damage, it's essential to act quickly. The longer you wait, the more damage can occur. Take photos of the damage for insurance purposes and try to remove any standing water as soon as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville. We are your professional water damage restoration company here to help with the cleanup process and ensure your home is restored to its pre-damage condition.

By being proactive and preventing water damage, you can protect your home and avoid the headache and expense of dealing with water damage during the rainy season.

Call SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville to have your HVAC unit cleaned today!!

4/5/2023 (Permalink)

Property owners choose SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville as their trusted HVAC cleaners.

There are several reasons why property owners choose SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville as their trusted HVAC cleaners.

For starters, SERVPRO has been a reputable company in the business for over 50 years. We have a team of trained and certified technicians with the latest tools and equipment to do the job correctly. Regarding HVAC cleaning, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville takes a thorough approach. We clean the ducts, vents, and the entire system, including the furnace, air handler, and other components. This helps ensure that your system is running efficiently and effectively, saving you money on your energy bills.

Additionally, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville uses industry-leading cleaning products that are safe and effective. We also have a proven track record of delivering excellent customer service and going above and beyond to ensure our clients are satisfied with our work.

Overall, if you want a company you can trust to clean your HVAC system thoroughly and effectively, SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville is an excellent choice. With our experience, expertise, and commitment to quality, you can feel confident that your system will be in good hands.

About 50% of Homes Have Mold Problems.... Let SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville Help You!

3/20/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville for all your mold questions and concerns!

What is Mold?

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, mold is defined as follows: “A superficial often woolly growth produced especially on the damp or decaying matter or on living organisms by a fungus (as of the order Mucorales).” In other words, mold spores grow when they land on excessive moisture.

Many of us are familiar with mold or have seen it before; it’s often a greenish substance growing in cool or damp areas, such as basements or crawlspaces. However, it’s especially prudent to SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville and what our professional technicians do daily. It often appears in the aftermath of water damage when your home, business, and belongings are water-logged and desperately need remediation.

Types of mold fall into one of the three types of categories listed below:

Allergenic molds are not toxic in and of themselves but can trigger allergic reactions such as asthma.

Pathogenic molds can trigger illnesses in people already weakened by other causes.

Toxigenic families of molds are the most dangerous because they create toxins that can lead to health problems that are sometimes lethal.

Types of Molds Most Commonly Found in a Residential Home:

1. Chaetomium

Type of Mold: Allergenic.

Where It’s Found: Water-damaged homes.

Soil and plant debris is the natural outdoor habitat of this mold, but it’s also the most common mold to grow in houses damaged by flooding and large water leaks.

Chaetomium is an allergenic mold that often starts as a fuzzy white growth. Over time, it darkens and can sometimes look like the dreaded black mold. The two types can even grow in the exact location. Sufficient moisture is necessary for the growth of both.

2. Stachybotrys (Black mold)

Type of Mold: Toxigenic.

Where It’s Found: Damp areas, including ventilation systems.

There are dozens of species of the toxigenic mold Stachybotrys, but two are noteworthy. Stachybotrys chartarum and Stachybotrys chlorohalonata are also known as the toxic black mold. These sometimes appear indoors or in ventilation systems.

Both species are associated with poor indoor air quality, typically from too much moisture. Stachybotrys is also related to sick building syndrome. This mold is dangerous enough that it should be removed only by licensed remediation specialists as part of a campaign to eliminate excess moisture.

3. Trichoderma

Type of Mold: Toxigenic.

Where It’s Found: Damp soil.

This typical family of molds is found in soils around the world. There are 89 recognized species of this mold, with Trichoderma longibrachiatum, a.k.a. “common house mold,” one of the most prevalent.

It can grow anywhere in the home where organic matter and sufficient moisture are present. Trichoderma is considered a toxigenic mold because it produces mycotoxins under certain conditions. Some strains of Trichoderma go into anti-fungal treatments for plants.

3. Alternaria

Type of Mold: Allergenic.

Where It’s Found: Bathrooms and damp windows.

Have you got moldy stuff growing in your bathroom or shower? Perhaps mold along the bottom of windows where condensation develops during cold weather? It’s probably a mold called Alternaria. This is the most common type of allergenic mold.

From the genus ascomycete, this organism thrives outdoors in natural ecosystems. But Alternaria can cause problems when it ventures indoors. It causes allergic reactions and can trigger hypersensitive conditions such as hay fever and asthma. This organism can infect people whose immune systems are impeded.

3. Ulocladium

Type of Mold: Allergenic.

Where It’s Found: Damp appliances, bathrooms, drywall, carpet, and more.

This common allergenic household mold is found in wet places such as showers, bathtubs, condensation-prone windows, and appliances like dish and clothes washers. Water-dispensing refrigerators with chronically leaking hose connections also may be vulnerable.

Ulocladium is black in color, and while it’s not as dangerous as the infamous “black mold,” the appearance of any mold is cause for concern and action. Ulocladium also grows on drywall and carpet and requires high moisture levels to thrive.

4. Serpula

Type of Mold: Allergenic.

Where It’s Found: Wooden (and not consistently particularly damp) structures.

One species called Serpula lacrymans is rare in nature and feeds almost exclusively on wooden structures. It’s a mildly allergenic mold that does not pose much of a health hazard to people, although destructive.

If you see a house frame that’s always dry yet crumbles to pieces, you’ve witnessed dry rot. The direct translation of the Latin name means “creeping” (serpula) and “making tears” (lacrymans) because of its ability to infect and destroy wooden structures without high levels of moisture.

5. Mucor

Type of Mold: Mostly allergenic (with one toxigenic exception).

Where It’s Found: Water-damaged structural materials, carpets, and mattresses.

There are about 40 species of this fast-growing white or gray mold. Most are considered just allergenic. However, one species, Mucor indicus, is considered toxigenic because it can lead to a fungal infection called zygomycosis, causing the death of living tissue.

Some species of Mucor can also infect blood in a condition called mucormycosis. Mucor proliferates at room temperature or warmer and can sometimes approach an inch thickly. Mucor mecudo is one common species. It’s generically called “pin mold” because the vertical growths with small heads look like sewing pins.

6. Aspergillus

Type of Mold: Pathogenic.

Where It’s Found: Air and HVAC systems, especially in water-damaged buildings.

Although some members of the Aspergillus genus are non-toxic, they can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory irritation, lung infections, and asthma. Other examples from the genus Aspergillus are toxigenic and can produce aflatoxins — chemicals that can trigger cancer growth.

The spores of Aspergillus fumigatus are found everywhere in the air, and this species is considered pathogenic. It can cause lethal infections in people with compromised immune systems. As with several other families of molds, Aspergillus also includes at least one species helpful to humans. Aspergillus sojae is essential for making authentic soy sauce, miso, and other fermented condiments.

7. Penicillium

Type of Mold: Allergenic.

Where It’s Found: Anyplace with moisture.

Although a species of this mold called Penicillium notatum was the source of lifesaving antibiotics, you don’t want any Penicillium growing in your house.

This genus has many species, is bluish-green, and has a smooth texture. It’s considered an allergenic mold. The airborne spores travel easily and can trigger asthma and heart inflammation. As with all molds, high moisture conditions trigger its growth.

8. Aureobasidium

Type of Mold: Allergenic.

Where It’s Found: Underneath wallpaper and paint.

This fast-growing, black, allergenic yeast-like organism thrives in outdoor environments worldwide and indoor environments with sufficient moisture.

Aureobasidium is most found underneath wallpaper and paint in homes and can vary significantly in color. One species, Aureobasidium pullulans, is the most widely known and is sometimes used in biotech research. It’s also crucial to certain products that control plant diseases and aid in food storage.

Suppose you should find mold in your residential or commercial property. In that case, it’s best to be safe and contact a cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville as soon as possible. The restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville will follow the mold remediation process:

Step 1: When you contact SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville, you will speak to a specialist who will ask you questions about the mold damage to determine equipment, resources, and necessary personnel.

Step 2: SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville professionals will inspect your property, using specialized equipment to detect the mold and any hidden water sources.

Step 3: SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville professionals will begin the mold containment process. This may involve using a negative air chamber and turning off all heating and cooling systems to prevent the spread of spores.

Step 4: The air filtration process will begin. This involves using specialized filtration equipment to capture microscopic mold spores out of the air. SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville professionals will also use HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers to help ensure the mold spores do not spread while remediation is underway.

Step 6: SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville professionals will begin removing mold and mold-infested materials using antifungal and antimicrobial treatments. If infested with mold growth, drywall, and carpeting may also need to be removed during this step.

Step 7: Contents and belongings are cleaned. SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville professionals offers various services, such as document restoration, ceiling, wall, and floor cleaning, drape and blind cleaning, carpet, upholstery cleaning, and more.

Step 8: The last step is restoration. Depending on the extent of damage, minor or large-scale restoration services may be needed, including construction. It is our goal to return your space to preloss condition.

Call SERVPRO of Lexington/Thomasville for any questions regarding your residential home! We are here to help!