Deep Cleaning Services For Your Business

5/28/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers comprehensive cleaning services for facilities and warehouses.  We specialize in maintaining the cleanliness of your property through a range of general cleaning services, including window cleaning and strip & wax floor cleaning.

Additionally, we offer post construction cleanup services for newly constructed buildings or sections of your facility.  Throughout the construction process, dust and debris can be a significant concern.  Our team can thoroughly clean all affected areas of your facility from top to bottom, ensuring everything looks fresh and new.

This recent project for a commercial warehouse utilized our deep cleaning methods.  Dust was meticulously eliminated from every corner of the building, from the ceiling to the floor.  Contents were cleaned, stored and relocated as necessary.  In addition, HVAC duct cleaning was conducted to ensure that the air vents were free of any potential contaminants, allowing only safe and healthy air to circulate through.  Should your property require a fresh start, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help!

Property and Safety Tips For the Summer

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

The summer heat brings its own risks.  To help limit the risk of property damage and stay safe next season, there are several preventative measures that you can take.

Moisture

Mold grows where moisture lies.  Clean moisture-prone areas often to help eliminate bacteria, such as around the windows and shower.  To help prevent moisture or a water leak after a storm, seal any cracks in your windows and doors.

Grilling

Before grilling, first check for any leaks.  Maintain at least ten feet between the cooking area and any trees or bushes.  Clean the grilling surface often, removing any grease, fat or cooking oils that can potentially cause a fire.

Air Conditioning Systems

Have your system inspected before starting it up for the season.  If a duct cleaning hasn’t been performed in over seven years, we recommend this service to clear your air vents of any dirt and particles that would otherwise circulate through your home with the cool air.

For window units, dirt and debris should be removed to help prevent the risk of fire damage.  Clean them of any condensation, and ensure that rain will not drip onto any electrical wires.  Change the filters once per month.  Turn the units off when they are not needed; overuse can cause the system to overheat. 

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season continues!  Have an evacuation plan prepared for your family or business.  An emergency kit should be readily available and stocked with items such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, blankets, and a portable radio.  Always listen for updates on a storm and for when it is safe to venture out.

Prepare your business for the worst!  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers the Emergency READY Profile for property and business owners.  This is a free building assessment complete with all critical property and emergency contact details in the event of a disaster.  We provide these free of charge to our local businesses!

Holiday Safety

When setting off fireworks, keep them away from any structures or trees.  Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of a fire.  Do not relight or touch fireworks that haven’t ignited.

Should you suffer a fire, water or storm damage event this summer, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides immediate restoration services to the local area.  Our team of professionals will assess the damage, determine the best course of action and work with you every step of the way while we restore your property to preloss conditions.

Preventing Fire Damage Before It Happens!

4/30/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides preventative measures to help stop fire damage in the first place.  One of the ways we do so is through hood cleaning services.  As food is prepared, the excess oil and grease evaporates into the hood system.  Without proper maintenance, this can build up and potentially cause a kitchen fire.  Our team will remove all signs of cooking residue and thoroughly clean your system to help prevent fire damage.

For commercial facilities, hood cleaning is required based on the volume of cooking use.  Small establishments may only need a cleaning annually, while a highly trafficked restaurant may need a cleaning as often as once a month.

To help ensure a safe cooking environment, filters should be replaced every two-three months for the utmost efficiency.  Cooking surfaces should be cleaned every day.  Keep any flammable materials away from the cooking area.

Another way that we can help to prevent fire damage involves the laundry area.  Dryer fires are very common.  We offer dryer vent cleanings, which are needed based on use.  As dirt and lint builds up, a clog can form in your dryer vent that can eventually cause a fire.  The more you use your dryer or the more pets you have, the more often you may need to have this cleaning performed.  Our cleaning professionals will remove all potential buildup in your dryer vent to help ensure a safer and more efficient system.

Should you suffer a fire, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides 24/7 emergency fire damage services to the local area.  When an unexpected disaster occurs, our restoration team can handle any extent of smoke or soot damage.

Mold Can Be Harmful!

4/2/2024 (Permalink)

Mold can take on many appearances and cause various health effects, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.  With the spring weather comes a greater risk of mold growth due to higher levels of moisture and humidity, not to mention the increased likelihood of rainfall.

It is critical to combat mold immediately after it is discovered!  When mold growth is uncertain, we work with several partners for mold testing in order to determine exactly what you’re dealing with and the risks involved.  Stachybotrys or black mold is one of the most hazardous when it comes to your health. 

During the mold remediation process, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford will conduct various procedures including the containment of the mold-infested areas while the work is completed in addition to utilizing our air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to collect and prevent the spread of mold spores in a given space. 

Each mold situation is unique and poses its own risks.  To help prevent mold, do your best to keep your property dry, and look for signs of water damage or offensive odors that could mean mold is present.  Investing in an air purifier is an effective way to help stop mold in its tracks and ensure a clean and healthy environment.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides mold remediation services for any extent of damage, no matter the risk.  We take the steps necessary to help eliminate all potential harm from your property.

Mold in Lincoln University

3/14/2024 (Permalink)

Mold can take many forms and can often be a hidden enemy, hiding behind walls or in the corners of your property.  When it comes to mold, the key is to act quickly to prevent further damage.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently responded to a home in Lincoln University where mold damage was discovered.  The homeowner had returned from vacation to find mold had formed in the corner of the fireplace.  Upon arrival, our team will discuss any pertinent info with you regarding the mold growth.  Each mold situation has its own traits, and we work to understand the most effective approach for each project.    

Our mold remediation process will then provide the necessary steps to eliminate the mold spores on all affected surfaces.  We utilized our HEPA vacuums to treat the compromised areas.  This equipment captures and removes harmful particles that can pose a health risk to those who are exposed to the mold.

Our professionals also utilize our advanced air scrubbers to help remove even more particles from the air in the space.  Through the use of containment barriers, we prevent mold exposure in unaffected areas of the property.

Once our remediation process is complete and all surfaces and affected content have been properly cleaned and restored, we leave a property much healthier than when we first stepped foot inside.  Often during this process, mold-infested structural elements such as the drywall and baseboards must be removed, but our reconstruction department is always just a call away to put everything back together!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides mold damage services in order to make any extent of damage “Like it never even happened.”   Our team is equipped to act quickly and immediately when it counts!

Are You Prepared For Spring?

2/21/2024 (Permalink)

Life can get messy.  When it comes to stains, dusty HVAC ducts or otherwise worn down surfaces in need of a refresh, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can handle that mess for you!  Spring also brings its own risks of property damage.  Below, we list some of the ways that you can help to prevent property damage this spring!

• Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  Spring is the perfect time to make sure that everything is running smoothly and that your systems are intact in the event of an emergency.
• Have your air conditioning system inspected and cleaned.  Replace the filter in your air conditioning unit to eliminate the particles flowing through your system and into the air.  A new filter will also prolong the length of your system’s efficiency.
• Clean your ducts and dryer vent.  The dirt and dust in your ducts can build up over time while it circulates throughout your home in the air you breathe.  Lint and other debris will eventually build up in your dryer vent, potentially leading to fire damage if not properly removed.
• Clean your gutters.  A clogged drainage system means that the water could end up in your property, rather than flowing away from it.  Clear the areas of leaves and other debris, and make sure that water isn’t collecting around your foundation.
• Inspect the structure for any issues after the long winter.  Do you have missing roof tiles or damaged siding?  These issues should be repaired before they become a bigger concern, especially with the rainy season ahead.
• Make the necessary repairs to all windows and doors.  By sealing any cracks, this will prevent moisture from entering the property that can cause mold as the temperature rises.

Our certified professionals are ready for spring!  We are specifically trained in a variety of cleaning methods in addition to water and mold damage procedures that are often needed due to the rain and moisture that arises.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can handle each form of damage from day one to help resolve your particular matter!

Preparing For The Storm!

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

Although flooding disasters like we have experienced recently can often be unexpected to our customers, one way to stay ahead and remain prepared is to follow your local news stations frequently for updates.  These also come in handy during and after a storm for following the proper safety guidelines when leaving your home.

Other ways you can help to prevent storm damage after a major weather event include the following:

• Inspect your property.  Damaged structural components should be repaired immediately.  Missing roof tiles, broken gutters and foundation issues can all lead to a much larger issue after rain or flooding.
• Seal your doors and windows.  This will help to prevent moisture as well as water damage.
• Check your sump pump.  Ensure that the system is working properly and have a battery backup installed. This can save you the stress when a power outage occurs.
• Make sure that your water is draining away from your property, rather than pooling around it where it will potentially find its way in.
• Clear your gutters and downspouts of debris.
• Trim any loose tree branches or limbs that could break in strong winds.
• Speak with your insurance provider on your flood coverage. Some policies do not cover this.
• In the event of a power outage, have an emergency kit ready with supplies including blankets, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishables.
• Stay alert to your local news source, and never attempt to drive through high water. Stay inside and wait out the storm until your local authorities say that it is safe.

As winter continues and more storms arise, please stay diligent.  In the event that you suffer any extent of storm damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is on standby 24/7!

Heavy Winds and Rain Bring Severe Storm Damage!

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

Our area has suffered a few large storms recently, leading to severe flooding in Chester County and the surrounding areas.  During each of these weather events, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford received an influx of calls for help with water and structural damage due to the heavy rain and downed trees.

During the most recent storm, the wind gusts had reached up to 50 mph, causing trees to collapse onto homes.  Hundreds of power lines were damaged, resulting in fire damage to several properties.  As the heavy downpour gained momentum, properties located closer to creeks and rivers experienced even more storm damage.  In Downingtown, the Brandywine Creek almost reached the peak of a major flood disaster.

In addition, over 60,000 power outages were reported in Chester County alone, while over 221,000 were reported overall from PECO.  During the extreme weather, emergency personnel were called out to sixteen water rescues.  Many vehicles were left trapped in the flooding as the storm continued.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has worked day and night during each of the recent storms to help assist those with extreme storm damage.  Our franchise assists our local customers with the entire storm damage restoration process, including with tarping a damaged roof and the tree removal process.  We provide reconstruction services to the water-damaged areas once mitigation is complete.  In addition, our team will help you to discover the source of any leaks and provide content cleaning for the salvageable items affected.  Often, we can even save some of the water-damaged documents that are not too severely affected.

Should you have suffered any form of storm damage during our region’s storms, feel free to give us a call!  We can help guide you towards the next steps to take in order to get the issue handled immediately!

Preventing Fire Damage with Dryer Vent Cleaning!

12/28/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides more than fire and water damage cleanup!  We also provide a variety of cleaning services such as dryer vent cleaning!

When dirt and lint significantly builds up in your dryer, this can potentially lead to a fire.  Our team strives to help homes and businesses prevent fire damage from occurring in the first place by providing this cleaning necessity to the community!  We often offer this service when we perform duct cleaning for a property.

Dryer vents should be cleaned annually, but this can also depend on how much you use the system or if you have pets in your home since that pet hair will build up much faster.  Commercial laundromats may need this service more frequently as well.  Should you become frustrated by how long it takes to fully dry your clothes, this could be a sign that a dryer vent cleaning is needed.  Another sign of a dryer issue is when clothes are hot to the touch once the cycle is complete.

Should you need a dryer vent cleaning, our cleaning professionals at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can remove the buildup to help unclog your system.  Once the excess lint, pet hair or dirt is removed, please remember to continue to remove the lint after each cycle and look for any additional signs of dryer failure.

Should fire damage occur due to a buildup, our restoration team can help with that as well!  Our IICRC cleaning and restoration procedures allow us to help restore a property to preloss conditions with little to no downtime for those involved!  Give us a call to learn more about how we can assist you with your particular cleaning or fire damage needs!

Water Leak Causes Ceiling and Mold Damage

12/11/2023 (Permalink)

After a slow water leak in this Coatesville home’s basement, the buildup of water eventually caused the ceiling to start falling in addition to causing mold damage.  One of our local insurance offices asked for our assistance with the damages.  Once the leak was fixed, our team visited the home to perform the proper water damage restoration services.

After containing the basement from the rest of the home, the process began with demolition of the affected areas where we tore out the wet insulation and drywall.  Water mitigation was performed, followed by our HEPA treatment.  Our HEPA vacuums are highly resourceful in removing particles such as mold spores from a contained area.

Our air scrubbers were also set for several days.  These negative air machines are used to clean the air in areas affected by mold and other contaminants.  During this process, air pressure is lower in one area of a structure than another, and the air is removed from the space.  The air pressure paired with our containment of the mold-infested areas helps to prevent any harmful spores from entering the safe areas of a home or business.

Additional techniques for keeping everyone involved safe include our anti-microbial cleaning solution for all affected surfaces, including the content involved.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford’s team is provided with full PPE to help protect them from any dangerous contaminants.  Our full-face respirator and Tyvek suits help prevent any particles from making contact with the skin.

These safety procedures are followed on our many mold remediation projects.  Once this particular project was complete, our Reconstruction Department completed the restoration process by re-installing the drywall and insulation in addition to painting those interior areas to make it look good as new!

Supporting Our Fire Departments!

11/10/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to support our local first responders!  We recently were invited to several open houses for our local fire departments, including Po-Mar-Lin Fire Company in Unionville, Union Fire Company in Oxford, and Longwood Fire Company in Kennett Square.

During each of these events, the fire departments educated and informed those who attended on fire safety with some apparatus for the public to view.  These family friendly events are always a great way to welcome the community into what our firefighters do, and we were grateful to be a part of it!

During Longwood Fire Company’s open house, their volunteer firefighters demonstrated how to safely remove an injured driver from a vehicle that has been involved in a major accident.  Several members of the department removed the doors and top of the car onsite to rescue the driver inside.  This was a unique and educational way to show the community how much our first responders go through on a daily basis to help others.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is a proud supporter of our police and fire departments in Chester County.  We are grateful for their dedication to the communities they serve, so we strive to give back whenever possible!

Fire Damage in Historic Oxford

10/17/2023 (Permalink)

Oxford suffered a devastating fire that destroyed several businesses along their historic Main Street.  Approximately 90 people were displaced from their homes as well.  Along with many members of the Oxford community, we are saddened to see so many families and historic buildings affected by the fire.

Our fire damage restoration team was able to get onsite immediately with the fire departments that night to help in any way that we could.  The next day, we put up fencing to secure the street before the cleanup process could begin.  We are currently in the initial process of completing fire cleanup services for several of the businesses affected.  This includes smoke removal to those buildings that were less affected, but still experiencing damage from remnants of the fire.

Our fire damage cleanup professionals will work to restore the Oxford district as best as possible as the families and business owners continue to slowly get their lives back to normal.  We are so grateful to see the astounding generosity of the community as well.  Since the fire occurred, residents and organizations have stepped up to donate to those affected.  At this time, over $90,000 has been collected!!

Preventing Mold with the Summer Heat!

9/8/2023 (Permalink)

With the heat of the summer comes a greater chance of humidity and moisture.  This makes areas of our home or business more prone to grow mold.  A property with poor ventilation also restricts the amount of air flow that helps to keep the areas cool.  In these situations, condensation becomes a concern for mold.  Preventative actions you can take to prevent mold include the following:

Keep Humidity In Tact: Keep your home or facility cool.  Make sure there are no openings between your doors and windows to allow warm air to escape into the property.

Circulate Air: Vents should be consistently carrying the air throughout your home to maintain comfortable temperatures and lessen the risk of moisture.  Ensure that your HVAC system is clean and running properly.

Clean Up: Regularly cleaning areas such as your window sills and shower will prevent bacteria and other elements from building up to form mold.  Walls and ceilings with moisture should also be cleaned often to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Clean Appliances: Clean your dishwasher and laundry machine to reduce the risk of moldy bacteria.

Inspect: Look for signs of leaks or water damage.  Areas such as your roof, attic and basement are good places to start!  Should you have an odd or unfavorable smell in those areas, it could mean mold is present.

When you suspect mold, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can visit your property to assess the areas, determine the best plan of action and perform mold removal services.  Before getting overwhelmed with what to do next, give us a call to lift the burden off of your shoulders!

Fire Damage Restoration in Coatesville

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is continuing the fire damage restoration process for one of our local homeowners in Coatesville.  After a fire erupted on this property late one night, we rushed out to help!  Our local boardup partner was called out immediately to secure the scene until further notice.

Our fire damage restoration team then began the process of restoring the home to preloss conditions.  This includes removing any valuables that could be saved, demolishing the damaged structural components of the home without risking the integrity of the structure itself, cleaning and restoring content, and the reconstruction of the property.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford handles each fire loss with care and with our client’s needs and concerns in mind.  Our goal is to make each traumatic disaster “Like it never even happened” while striving to make the entire process as less overwhelming as possible for those involved!

Demolition Begins After Fire Damage in Avondale

7/21/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is continuing the fire damage restoration process for an Avondale property after a single electrical outlet caused a fire that completely destroyed the home.  Many fire departments in our area arrived on scene immediately to help extinguish the fire and sustain the stability of the structure as best as possible.  The initial restoration process has been completed, but due to the aftermath of the damage, the homeowners are left with no alternative but to demolish the property and rebuild.

The foundation of the home will be left intact so that the home can be reconstructed for the family.  Our fire restoration and reconstruction divisions are proud to handle this extensive project from beginning to end for the homeowners.

Our fire damage restoration professionals are also continuing the process of cleaning and restoring the smoke and soot damaged content that was affected.  This includes bringing in specialized vendors for electronics, textiles and other items.  These items will go through a particular method of cleaning in order to allow the recovery of these specialty items without damage.

These unfortunate situations are never easy for those involved, but this family will soon be able to put this devastating disaster behind them “Like it never even happened.”  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help when it matters the most, and we take pride in assisting local homes and businesses when the unthinkable happens!

Click here to view our demolition video of the current phase of this project!

Avondale Water Leak

7/7/2023 (Permalink)

After a water leak in an Avondale home, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford went out immediately to perform mitigation services for this bathroom among other areas.  Our water damage restoration procedures involve so much more than the water removal process.  We remove damaged structural elements such as the drywall, trim and floors.  After the initial water damage has been removed, we then place drying equipment, or air movers, onsite for a minimum of three days in order to help ensure that even the smallest water droplets have vanished from the affected areas and the interior walls and floors in those areas.

Our team’s cleaning and disinfecting process ensures that any form of bacteria or contamination is removed while our reconstruction division restores what needed to be removed in order to restore a home or facility to preloss conditions.  Our IICRC-certified water damage restoration process provides peace of mind to our customers while adhering to the strict but necessary guidelines of our industry.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to aid the Chester County area with their water and fire damage needs!

Content Removal and Restoration after Fire Damage

6/7/2023 (Permalink)

After a fire occurs, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford understands that what makes the disaster so overwhelming isn’t the structure itself but the contents inside that have meaning. When we are called on scene to assist with fire damage, we salvage what we can and look for your sentimental and priceless items, such as antique jewelry and pieces of artwork.

You may not know that many items affected by fire damage can still be restored to their original state, thanks to our advanced cleaning and restoration procedures.  Even electronics can often be saved. In addition, our team provides document restoration services for files affected after a fire or water loss.  Several items that we can assist you with in the event of a fire damage event include textiles, glassware and electronics such as computers and phones.

If you are given permission to re-enter your home after a fire, other items will need to be disposed of:

Plastic: This material captures the smoke or soot in the air, making these items nearly impossible to restore.

Food and Medicine: Smoke and soot can also enter into these items.  It is best to throw away anything that you may consume to be safe.

Furniture: Damaged upholstery can eventually break apart and cause a safety issue.

Appliances: These can cause more damage as well as electrical problems if affected by a fire.

Insulation: If insulation has been burnt, it needs to be replaced.  There is also a risk of embers igniting inside the insulation.

Wood: Affected wood loses its structural stability.

In the event of a fire, we recommend hiring a professional to handle the content restoration process.  Attempting to clean the items yourself can actually lead to more damage since smoke and soot is difficult to remove.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can assist you in salvaging what can be restored, and we provide packout services for both storing your content during the cleanup as well as removing items from the home or facility.  Our emergency services are provided 24/7 for fire and water damage events in the local area to help make your disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Soot Damage Cleanup

5/11/2023 (Permalink)

After a furnace puffback or other unforeseen fire damage situation, soot can spread to every corner of your home in a matter of seconds.  The soot damage on this ceiling was just the beginning of our cleanup process.  Furniture, carpet, clothing and other content was affected and handled with care.

During this process, our fire damage restoration professionals often store unaffected content nearby or in a local facility while cleaning and returning the damaged items that are salvageable.  In situations where electronics and textiles are involved, we bring in our local partners to restore those delicate items.  Some important documents or priceless photos can also often be restored from smoke or water damage; our Corporate office handles those needs with their specialized document restoration chambers.

Soot cleaning requires a thorough assessment and cleaning of your property from top to bottom.  We use soot sponges to find the particles of soot that are difficult to see, and we also perform duct cleaning services to ensure that both the structure and the air you breathe is free of contamination.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides 24/7 emergency services for fire, smoke and soot damage in our local area.  Our team is here to assist you every step of the way, from working with your insurance provider to the reconstruction of what was lost!

Preventing Mold after Water Damage

4/19/2023 (Permalink)

This rainy season has caused a lot of water and storm damage to our neighbors.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has spent a great deal of the past month restoring properties with water leaks and sump pump failures after heavy downpours, and we have also assisted those with damaged roofs after trees had been knocked down due to the wind or other unfortunate circumstances.

During this season of storms, it is important to dry the affected areas properly in order to prevent further water issues or future mold damage.  Our certified water damage restoration professionals are trained to follow strict industry standards in order to help lower the chances of these further issues.

Our team will inspect your building to discover all signs of water droplets or wet materials that have been affected.  We also measure the moisture in these materials and monitor that everything is drying properly with the help of our air movers.

By allowing a trained professional to fully dry the structure for you, you will suffer a much lower risk of finding mold later in those same areas.  Cleaning up the areas may seem easy enough, but allowing a professional to cover all of the difficult areas where water can hide will save you much more time and money down the road!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides 24/7 emergency services for water and fire damage, but we also respond quickly to needs involving mold remediation, cleaning services and reconstruction. We are “here to help” restore properties in our local communities as efficiently as possible with minimal downtime for your home or business.

Mold: The Hidden Enemy

4/3/2023 (Permalink)

Mold comes in all shapes, sizes and colors, but it is typically not as scary as it looks.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford discovered this interesting mold formation in an Avondale home while we were performing services for the sewage that had entered the property.  When our crew removed the drywall to find this growth hidden behind the wall, we realized that this restoration project would be much more extreme.

Mold can be difficult to remove, and it can also spread quickly throughout a property.  In as little as 48 hours, you can have a much larger problem on your hands!  Should your home or business have any extent of mold damage, give us a call for a free estimate!  Our air scrubbers and advanced remediation and cleaning techniques will take care of the issue for you in order to ensure that there are no health risks in the structure.   SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford also provides 24/7 services for emergencies in our area!

Fire, Water and Mold Damage Prevention for Spring!

3/23/2023 (Permalink)

Spring is the perfect time to spruce up your home or business and make sure everything is in order.  It is also a season where fire, water and mold damage commonly occur due to a variety of issues.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides cleaning and restoration services for any extent of damage you may encounter.  Below, we list several ways you can prevent property damage this season!

Preventing Fire Damage

• Check your smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarms, and change the batteries if it has been over six months.               
• Check your home for damaged appliances or cords.
• Clear out any debris or overgrown plants and leaves.
• Clean out the lint from your dryer, and hire a professional to perform dryer vent cleaning services if the buildup is more than you can handle.
• Make sure your grill is clear of grease and fat, and that everything works properly.

Preventing Water Damage

• Clear your gutters and drains of the leaves, dirt and debris that have accrued throughout the winter.
• Ensure that your foundation is ready to take on the spring showers, so that any precipitation will properly flow away from your property.
• Make sure that your sump pump is working to avoid basement water damage after a rain storm.
• Repair your roof of any damages, such as missing tiles or shingles that can lead to a leak.

Preventing Mold Damage

• In the event of water damage, be sure to hire a restoration professional to remove all signs of water in the affected areas.  Leaving those little water droplets behind can lead to much greater mold issues.
• Clean areas regularly where moisture is present, such as bathrooms and around windows.  As the temperature climbs, so will the moisture and the risk of mold.
• Clean your air conditioner of any condensation, and ensure that the system is working properly.

Should you have any issues with your property or just need some extra care after last season, feel free to reach out!  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides services in residential and commercial HVAC duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, tile and hardwood floor cleaning, and more!  We can clean your property from top to bottom, no matter the extent of the filth or damage, and we offer free estimates!

Team Hughes Has Grown!

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to share our big news!!  Team Hughes has acquired two new franchises to add to our portfolio and areas of service, SERVPRO of Lancaster East and SERVPRO of Southern Lancaster County.  We are excited to welcome Lancaster into our territories, which also includes our Cecil County franchise.

Should you need our expertise in Chester County, Cecil County, or our newly obtained Lancaster area, please give us a call!  Our teams are prepared to respond to any cleaning or restoration need for local residential and commercial clients.  We are also excited to meet our local business partners and organizations in this new territory as we expand our coverage!

Spider Webs or Fire Damage?

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

When a furnace or fireplace malfunctions, a severe puffback can occur that leaves soot throughout your entire property.  This happens after a substantial buildup of the oil in the system.  The soot eventually then bursts out and into the air.  Once it strikes other soot particles, the carbon chains are formed that appear to be spider webs but are actually much more difficult to remove.

Puffbacks are a leading form of fire damage during this time of year when our oil burners are not working properly, but there is a way to prevent the strange and toxic soot residue:

• Clean your oil burner every year.
• Check for signs of oil leaks.  Before a puffback, soot may begin to slowly make its way into your home by leaving some form of black soot on the burner or on your walls or ceiling.
• If you hear strange noises from the burner, it’s time to get the system inspected and repaired.
• Check your chimney and fireplace for signs of damage or debris that can create a buildup of oil that will eventually burst.

Should you discover soot in your property, we recommend that you call a certified fire damage restoration professional to help.  Soot is very difficult to remove, and improperly doing so can actually lead to more damage.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford uses soot cleaning sponges to not only remove all signs of visible soot on the affected surfaces, but also to find exactly where the soot has traveled to so that we can fully restore a property.  Should you discover any form of fire damage in your home, give us a call for a free assessment before the problem can get worse!

SERVPRO Can Handle the Gross Stuff!

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford often handles biohazard situations for our clients due to issues such as the following:

• Sewage backups
• Hoarding situations
• Rodent feces
• Insect infestations
• Crime scene cleanups
• Vandalism/Graffiti Removal

During one of these unique circumstances, our crew members carefully and thoroughly clean, disinfect and restore all of the areas affected by the unfortunate event.  This photo shows the aftermath of a rental home in Kennett Square after sewage had made its way into the basement of the property.  This process involves decontamination of all surfaces, debris removal, and water extraction for Category 3 water which can be potentially full of hazardous fungi or bacteria.  Once this is complete, our biohazard professionals apply an environmentally friendly anti-fungal and anti-microbial cleaning agent to all areas in order to fully remove any signs of harmful bacteria.

During hoarding situations, we also perform similar cleaning procedures.  These often involve removing all content from a property before the decontamination process can even begin.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to utilize our local business partners such as exterminator and dumpster companies to help us complete these biohazard projects efficiently.

Winter Isn’t Through With Us Yet!

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

After the sudden cold snap that led to dozens of Chester County properties in peril from water damage recently, you may be wondering how to prevent the very same thing from occurring in your home or facility.  Below, we list several actions you can take in order to greatly prevent a water loss this winter.

Frozen Pipes

Frigid temperatures means a much likelier chance of your pipes freezing and bursting.  To stop your pipes from freezing:

• Be sure to insulate any that are exposed.
• Close the indoor valves that supply water outdoors.
• Open the outdoor valves so that any excess water can drain out.
• In very low temperatures, open your faucets a little to allow the water to drip and therefore keep flowing through the pipes.
• If a pipe should freeze, you can use a heating pad, hair dryer or hot towels to slowly thaw the pipe before it breaks.

Winter Storms 

• Check your property for signs of damage both before and after a winter storm.  This could save you a water damage disaster if you should discover a leak or damaged portion of your roof for instance.
• In the event of heavy snowfall, remove the snow evenly from each side of your roof in order to help prevent the threat of a roof collapse.
• Do not let snow stay accumulated on your roof for too long of a period.  Doing so can potentially lead to an ice dam which prevents the melting water from exiting through the drainage system, leaving the water with nowhere to go except to leak into your property.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has assisted our local communities with their water and storm damage needs throughout this winter season.   Our restoration team is proud to help recover homes and businesses from many forms of damage that are often unexpected.  Should you suffer water, fire or mold damage of any kind, our SERVPRO professionals can help to guide you through the process while getting your property back to normal.

A Cold Snap Causes Christmas Water Damage Disasters!

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage didn’t rest this past holiday season, but luckily SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is prepared to respond 24/7 and at a moment’s notice to any emergency.  Over the weekend of Christmas, the steep drop in temperature caused numerous water damage issues throughout our local communities in the form of frozen pipes, sump pump failures, septic backups, sprinkler discharges and more.  The sudden frigid weather took many local home and business owners by surprise when their systems couldn’t handle the cold, and our restoration teams responded to many of those calls over the entire holiday weekend including Christmas Day.

Our water and storm mitigation crews provide each unique disaster with not only the proper equipment and procedures to get the job done right, but also the proper care and understanding of how overwhelming these situations can be for our clients.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to have a team that can help to salvage a customer’s property so that they can still enjoy time with their families over the holidays and throughout the year!

Giving Back to the Community!

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford held three food drives throughout the past year for many of our local food banks in need!  Most recently, we partnered with Clarel Janitorial and the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce to donate food and supplies to the Honey Brook Food Pantry, Octorara Area Food Cupboard, and Brandywine Valley Active Aging facility (BVAA) in Coatesville.

We also held a food drive last spring as well as over the Thanksgiving season.  The Kennett Area Community Service (KACS) food cupboard and the Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center were grateful to receive donations from these efforts!

These food drives combined brought in over 2,000 pounds of donations for these organizations!  We are proud to support these local non-profits with their contributions to the families in our community!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to support our local communities in more ways than one.  When we aren’t assisting property owners with their water and fire damage restoration needs, we are active in community events and programs throughout the year.

Mold in Nottingham

12/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can remove any extent of mold in your commercial or residential property.  We handle mold growth based on each unique circumstance, including how vastly and quickly the mold has spread.  We take these factors into account when determining the best plan of action for your property.

Mold can potentially cause a health risk to those who are exposed, so there are some details to consider when completing mold remediation.  This is also why we use a containment barrier during each remediation project in order to contain the mold where it has grown while preventing any mold spores from traveling to other parts of a structure.

A home in Nottingham was affected in its own unique way by mold damage.   The mold had spread into several areas of the property, causing gnats to overwhelm those areas as well.  Although this mold damage situation was unpleasant, it was easily reversible, thanks to our mold remediation professionals.  Our team was careful to remove any signs of growth or mold spores in the air so that the home could be restored good as new!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides mold remediation services throughout Southeastern PA, and we will work with you and your insurance provider to determine the extent of your coverage for the damage.  When it comes to the discovery of mold, the next steps are often stressful for the property owner, which is why our team always listens to the concerns of our customers and takes them into account while treating and restoring the affected areas.

Toughkenamon Mold Damage

12/16/2022 (Permalink)

When you discover mold in your home or business, it can be quite alarming since it comes unexpectedly and in many different forms. Fortunately, most types of mold are pretty harmless.  However, if left uninterrupted, the mold can continue to grow and affect an entire structure, causing overwhelming damage.  At the first sight of mold, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford advises that you call a professional for an initial assessment and possibly a mold test in order to determine the best plan of action for your particular situation.

A homeowner in Toughkenamon discovered this mold growth in her basement and immediately called us to resolve the issue.  The mold had begun to take the appearance of mushrooms, indicating that the mold damage had been there for a period of time.

Like many other mold remediation projects, our IICRC-certified team assessed both forms of mold damage before placing equipment on site.  During this process, our team sets a containment barrier between the affected and non-affected areas of a structure and then removes any necessary interior components, such as the drywall, trim, and baseboards.  We set our air scrubbers in the space for a minimum of three days in order to capture all mold spores in the air while we continue to eliminate all other signs of mold growth.  The areas are thoroughly cleaned with anti-microbial and anti-fungal cleaning agents, helping to ensure that the damaged areas are fully safe and healthy.

Mold damage can be scary, but SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help guide you through the process while we get your property back to normal!

Water Damage at a Local School

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford took on a water damage challenge after receiving the call to assist a local school with their ceiling water damage.  A leaking pipe had caused the need for substantial demolition and water restoration services at this educational facility.  Due to our immediate response, the faculty and students were not disrupted during this project as we worked to restore the affected area to preloss conditions.

Our water restoration team removed the wet plaster above the staircase and began the water removal process.  Our dehumidifier and air movers also helped to prevent any further water damage, even those droplets that can hide in the corners of a structure.  This specialized equipment was placed in the space for three full days in order to help ensure that the building was fully dry.  This process also helped to eliminate the risk of mold growth in the affected area.  Once the space was fully dry, we applied our plant-based cleaning solution to the ceiling and left the school to resume its operations “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides emergency water and fire damage services to educational institutions and other commercial facilities in the local area.  Our team is proud to leave our clients with service that surpasses what is expected, no matter the extent of the damage!

Preventing Soot and Smoke Damage this Upcoming Winter

11/16/2022 (Permalink)

As the temperature continues to drop, the risk of soot and smoke damage will rise due to faulty heating systems being used for the first time or not being properly inspected.  Puff backs often occur this time of year when a furnace is not working at its best, leading to puffs of soot traveling out of the furnace and throughout an entire home.  These soot chains often take the form of cobwebs in the corners of your home.  However, they are not as easily removed since doing so incorrectly can lead to further damage.

Many other forms of smoke and soot damage can occur due to issues with your fireplace, chimney or HVAC system.  Below, we outline some steps you can take in order to prevent a winter disaster in your own home.

• Hire a certified professional to inspect and clean your chimney.  All chimney flues should have a cap in order to stop a potential chimney block where dirt collects drastically or smoke cannot escape.
• Check your heaters and HVAC systems for signs of failure.
• Clean your gas logs and fireplace regularly.  Ensure that the flue damper is not clogged with debris, and make sure that your logs are safely positioned to help prevent the risk of fire damage.
• Check your boiler and furnace for signs of oil leaks.  A leak means that oil is not burning properly, which can then begin to slowly exit the burner and appear on the surfaces of your home as black soot.  Strange odors or noises can also mean that the oil in the system is building up, which can lead to a puff back.

Always look for damaged or loose components of the systems you use to heat your home. Should you suffer any type of fire damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help restore your home to preloss conditions.

Since soot is often not visible on a surface, our dry cleaning sponges allow our fire damage restoration professionals to discover where the soot has spread to.  These sponges are then used to remove all soot from the affected space.  We also provide advanced odor deodorization and removal techniques in addition to our duct cleaning process to help eliminate all signs of smoke and soot from the air and ensure that no particles will circulate through your HVAC system.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides emergency fire damage services regarding any extent of fire, smoke or soot damage that your home or business may suffer.  Our team is always prepared for when disaster strikes!

Hurricane Ian Storm Damage Restoration

11/2/2022 (Permalink)

Hurricane season has been quite a rough one for those in Florida who are suffering from the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.  The hurricane was one of the most devastating storms the country has experienced this year.  Strengthening to a Category 4, the storm caused catastrophic damage throughout the entire Florida state and areas of the Carolinas.  With winds of over 150 miles per hour and floodwaters rising as high as 15 feet in Fort Myers, the area was left in shambles.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was one of many franchises that immediately traveled south in order to help those in need.  Our storm damage crews helped to restore what was lost in the areas of Cape Coral and Fort Myers, the most heavily impacted regions.

Our disaster recovery team often travels along the east coast to aid those who have experienced devastation from the effects of a natural disaster.  We have recently traveled to help additional states including Virginia after their massive flooding disaster and Texas after their own unique but devastating storm damage needs.  We strive to assist with water and storm damage recovery efforts wherever the need arises while taking pride in also providing relief to those in our local area.

Hidden Mold in Kennett Square

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

A mold contamination is often easy to spot, but it can also be hidden after factors such as prior water damage.  This mold was hidden behind the wall panels in a Kennett Square rental property.

Mold damage can form quite differently, but the mold remediation process remains almost the same in order to help fully destroy all signs of mold, including the spores in the air.  The process begins with building a containment or decontamination chamber which separates the mold-infested areas of a building from the rest of the property.  This will help to prevent mold spores from entering additional areas and therefore keep the contamination in one place during the removal process.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford completed demolition services for the property, including removing the affected drywall and insulation.  Our air scrubbers and HEPA vacs collect and trap the mold spores in the space, and they typically run for one to three full days, based on the extent of the damage.  Once all signs of mold are removed, we thoroughly clean all areas with our anti-fungal and anti-microbial treatment in order to help fully provide a safe and healthy environment.  The containment area is then removed, leaving the property restored to preloss conditions.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides mold remediation services for any extent of mold damage to your property.  Our initial assessment will provide a thorough inspection of the affected areas, and our team will help you through the entire process and any potential future issues.

Fire Damage Disrupts an Oxford Restaurant

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

Even a small fire can lead to a large inconvenience when it comes to your business and clients.  A local restaurant in Oxford recently suffered fire damage after a fan had electrically failed, causing the motor to heat up and the fan to melt.  Plastic soot had spread throughout the facility.  Plastic or synthetic soot is more difficult to remove than other forms of soot damage since the burned contents are oil-based and contain damaged content including plastic materials.

Some areas that were affected included the restaurant’s freshly painted walls and ceilings, the brand new floor and various content including dishes and cookware.  The Oxford business was fortunately already closed since the owners were away at the time, but an issue like this can often lead to substantial business interruption.

In order to completely remove the plastic soot, our fire restoration professionals needed to complete a heavier cleaning with a degreaser, rather than our typical soot sponges.  We also completed hood cleaning, demolition and odor deodorization services in addition to content cleaning and disposal of non-salvageable items.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford performs services that encompass all aspects of fire, smoke and soot damage so that no damage is left behind.  We respond immediately in order to limit business interruption for your facility, and we can handle any size commercial loss!

Business Interruption Insurance: Do you Have it?

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

When an unexpected disaster occurs for your business, the physical damages can be just the beginning.  Fire and water damage to your facility can force your business to close for as long as weeks or even months.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford understands that this is a heavy burden on your company and its success while not being able to actively continue business practices.

One way to help combat this serious financial threat to your business is to speak with your insurance provider about coverage for this particular matter.  Many insurance companies offer business interruption insurance, which will help to cover the costs that your business would otherwise accrue through your clients.  This is a separate form of insurance from your typical coverage of property damages.

Business interruption insurance can cover you in a variety of ways such as providing coverage for damaged merchandise that can no longer be sold, or for a temporary building where business can continue while your facility is being restored.  Payroll for your employees while your business is closed is another option.

This type of insurance can save you a lot of financial and stressful obligations down the road, but it is also important to discuss your coverage and what it will entail.  Consider certain factors in the event that your business may have to shut down.  Determine how long it would take your business to get back on track once reopen as well as how long it may take to find a temporary office space.  Most policies have a set length of time where coverage will be approved.

Business interruption insurance can substantially improve your situation in the event of fire, water or storm damage to your commercial property.  We recommend speaking with your insurance provider immediately to determine the right coverage for your business so that you are covered in case of an unforeseen disaster.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford works with many insurance companies to help make the fire or water damage process run as smoothly as possible.  Our restoration professionals strive to make a devastating situation less overwhelming for our commercial clients so that you can focus on getting back on track for your business.

We Handle any Form of Water Damage!

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike at any time for a multitude of reasons.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to have the proper training, expertise and equipment in order to respond at a moment’s notice to any form of water or storm damage, no matter how large or small.

Several of the recent water losses that we assisted with included two that occurred after business hours.  Our franchise provides 24/7 emergency water damage services with a team of professionals that are always on standby just in case.  One home in Nottingham had suffered water damage in the basement over the July 4th holiday weekend.  Another home in West Grove had suffered the similar water damage during a previous weekend.  Both properties’ issues were resolved before the start of a new week.  We also completed water mitigation services for several other properties, including a commercial warehouse with a leaking roof and a home in Kennett Square with a minor pipe leak.

Each water damage event has its own unique situation. SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford responds based on industry standards for what each project entails.  Our mitigation techniques, drying equipment, cleaning solutions and demolition services are performed as needed in order to help restore your property to preloss conditions.

Our Levels of Cleaning

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in cleaning services for a variety of needs in Southeastern PA.  These services include carpet and duct cleaning, biohazard cleanup and post construction cleaning.

During the cleaning process, we utilize several methods to help eliminate all potential signs of dirt, dust, and bacteria.  There are three cleaning levels:

Sanitize

Enough microorganisms are removed in order to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Disinfect

99.9% of microorganisms are destroyed.  Harmful bacteria and viruses are removed using harsher chemicals.

Sterilize

All microorganisms are destroyed.  This is the highest level of cleaning and is used in hospitals and other commercial settings.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford often assists commercial facilities immediately with their cleaning needs to minimize the damages and help keep those facilities running.  We offer hospital-grade and environmentally friendly cleaning solutions to help restore your property.  We also provide emergency response services for critical situations in order to help maintain a healthy and safe environment.

Media Blasting for Fire Damage

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

During the fire restoration process, our team at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford often uses a high impact technique to help recover a property.  This technique is referred to as media blasting and is often used to remove severe fire damage from the elements of a structure.   It is the process of using high pressure to force one abrasive material against another in order to remove the surface contaminate. 

This technique was recently used during the fire damage services performed for a Chadds Ford home.  Wood ashes had been left unattended in the stove, causing a fire that had affected the entire structure.  During the fire restoration process, we used garnet to forcibly help remove the damage in the affected areas.

Various types of media can be used to help remove fire damage including glass, dry ice, and baking soda.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford uses this technique in cases of severe fire damage as a necessary step in restoring a property “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage at a Kennett Square Food Bank

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently visited the Kennett Area Community Service (KACS) Food Cupboard for water restoration services.  Water began to come up through the floor in the area where the food for the community was stored for those in need.

Our water restoration team responded immediately to the call and quickly began to remove the water damaged floor of the space.  We also placed our advanced drying equipment in the affected areas.  In order to fully dry the structure and prevent further water damage, our air mover and dehumidifier were left to continuously help eliminate all signs of water for three full days.  This is a standard and critical step in the water restoration process.

Once this was complete and the property was restored, the Food Cupboard was left to continue their paramount efforts for our local community.  Our team was happy to be able to restore this organization quickly and efficiently in order to help keep those efforts running smoothly for the Kennett Square area.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to assist our local businesses and non-profits with their everyday disasters and commercial cleaning needs.  Our team provides services for fire and water damage, mold remediation, post construction cleaning, biohazard, vandalism, and more!  We are proud to offer 24/7 emergency services for our local community when it is needed the most.

Fire Safety for the Warm Weather!

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

As the warmer months continue, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford would like to remind everyone to act safely while enjoying this time of year.  The upcoming months can often lead to fire damage when particular procedures are not followed.  The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends following the steps below to ensure a fun and safe season!

• Check your grill for issues such as leaks before cooking outside for the season.  Do not leave the grill unattended.  Clean it regularly to remove the grease and fat that can potentially ignite.
• When having a bonfire, be sure to have a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of a sudden flare up.  Ensure that all embers are completely extinguished before leaving the area.
• All fire sources should be kept away from structures and tree branches in case of a sudden flame as well.
• Lawns should be maintained and clear of leaves and other materials that can burn.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford hopes that everyone enjoys the warmer weather!  Should your property suffer fire damage to any extent, our fire restoration professionals can handle the cleanup.  We provide services including smoke and soot removal, odor deodorization techniques, and demolition and reconstruction of the structure.  Our team is here in our local community to help make your fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Hurricane Preparedness Week!

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

This week is National Hurricane Preparedness Week.  Hurricane safety is encouraged during this week in order to help prepare our communities for the start of the hurricane season.  To prepare for a major storm, there are a few safety procedures all home and business owners should follow.

• Create an emergency plan.  Prepare for a severe storm by outlining critical steps to follow such as an evacuation route and communication methods.
• Create an emergency kit.  Supplies such as radios, flashlights, batteries and a first aid kit should be prepared and easily accessible in the event of a power outage or other substantial event.  Non-perishable food and water should also be stocked.
• Ensure your property is safe and will outstand a strong storm.  Have your property inspected, and make sure that the structure is up to date with the accurate building codes for your area.
• Speak with your insurance representative regarding your policy.  Not all policies cover flood damage, so it is important to be aware of what you may be responsible for after a storm.

Should your property suffer storm damage this hurricane season, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help!  Our storm restoration professionals can handle any extent of structural damage.  We also provide reconstruction services in order to help fully restore your home or business.

In addition, we offer our free Emergency Ready Profile Program to all commercial facilities to help minimize the damage during a major event.  No matter how large or small, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help our local community with their fire, water and storm damage needs!

Sewage in Downingtown

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford visited a commercial office building in Downingtown after sewage had entered the facility.  The basement had been damaged with minor sewage damage due to a system failure.  No content was affected, but our team was asked to complete thorough cleaning services for the affected areas.  We visited the property that day in order to help restore the basement, allowing the business to reopen quickly.

Once all debris was removed from the basement, our restoration professionals extracted all sewage water from the floor and placed a dehumidifier in the space for a period of three full days in order to dry the contaminated floor.  We then cleaned the floor with our anti-microbial cleaning agent to help remove all signs of harmful particles.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides complete cleaning and restoration services for sewage and biohazard conditions.  We also offer general cleaning services, post construction cleanup, vandalism services, HVAC duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, and more in order to help restore businesses in Southeastern PA!

Preventing Stormwater from Entering your Home

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

During periods of rainfall, a storm leak can cause a variety of issues for a homeowner, starting with water and mold damage.  Should the problem persist, you should hire a professional to inspect the structure for signs of storm damage.  Below, we list several steps homeowners can take to prevent an initial storm leak.

• Inspect your roof for poor conditions.  Damages should be repaired before the next storm.
• Seal all windows and doors to prevent moisture and water damage.
• Remove debris from your gutters. This will prevent stormwater from becoming blocked in the gutters, allowing water to flow to away from the foundation of your home.
• Inspect your drains and sump pump.  Clear drains of debris and make sure that your system is working properly.

Should your home or business suffer any extent of water, storm or mold damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can assist you with restoring the space as quickly as possible!  Our water and storm restoration professionals are equipped with the proper expertise and resources to help with any size disaster.

Rain Causes Mold Damage

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently visited a local home in Chester County after the property had suffered substantial mold damage.  During periods of heavy rainfall, water finds its way into the home’s garage ceiling in addition to several other areas of the structure.

Our restoration team removed the wet insulation and drywall in the affected areas, followed by utilizing our advanced equipment to help remove any signs of mold damage.  During this process, we use air scrubbers to catch mold particles and other harmful contaminants in the air.  Once the structure was dry and the process of mold remediation completed, our professionals applied an environmentally friendly anti-microbial cleaning agent to the damaged areas.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers mold remediation services for any extent of mold damage in the Southeastern PA area.  Our team provides services for mold, storm, fire and water damage.  These services follow the guidelines set forth by organizations such as OSHA and the IICRC.

Preventing Fire Damage with Dry Conditions in Chester County

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

This spring, fire damage can often be a risk.  Should you not be prepared, dry conditions and humidity can lead to an unforeseen disaster.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford would like to remind you to please follow the proper safety precautions in order to keep your property safe from a fire-related event.

• Clear your yard, roof, deck and gutters of flammable materials that can set fire such as branches, leaves, and grass clippings.
• Trash and wood should be placed at least thirty feet away from your home.
• When cooking outdoors, maintain a ten foot distance between your grill and any trees or plants.
• Keep fire pits at a safe distance from your trees and home.  They should not be in use during heavy winds.
• Be sure that the embers from grilling and fire pits are completely extinguished.  This is particularly important during windy conditions where the embers can travel to the trees, plants or grass around your home.
• When using rags with chemicals such as paint, the NFPA recommends taking the rags outside to dry or placing them in a container with water and detergent to eliminate the oils.  Should the oils in the rags be left to release heat indoors, the heat will then have nowhere to escape, leading to possible fire damage.  They should also be kept away from heat sources such as sunlight.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help when it comes to your residential or commercial fire restoration needs.  We offer complete fire damage and reconstruction services in the event of destruction to your property.  We also offer thorough services for your spring cleaning needs!

Fire Destroys Home in Chadds Ford

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is currently in the process of fully restoring a home in Chadds Ford after a substantial fire.  The home’s stove had been filled with wood ashes that were left to burn out.  Unfortunately, that was not the case and a fire had erupted, destroying the entire property.

Our cleaning and fire restoration professionals are continuing to remove all debris and content from the home.  We dispose of all non-salvageable items, and clean and restore the items that haven’t been too severely damaged.  During the restoration process, we will also complete fire damage services including smoke and soot removal, odor deodorization and reconstruction.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides a thorough and complete fire restoration process for those who are affected by any type of fire, smoke or soot damage.  We help to restore your home or business from any size fire damage event.  Our team has the expertise, equipment and resources to respond to your disaster faster!

Commercial Water Damage in Oxford

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

The winter season is always a busy time for water and storm restoration services.  Frozen pipes, flooding and other water related issues have impacted some of our local Chester County homes and commercial properties, including this business in Oxford.

A pipe had broken on the first floor of the facility, leaking water onto the carpet.  The water continued to travel through the ceiling and into the basement, leaving four inches of water in that space as well.  To make matters worse, the water damage had occurred during business hours so they were forced to close until our team at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford could restore the affected areas.  We visited the property immediately to minimize the damage and downtime for the business.

During this water restoration process, we tore out all damaged components from the leak, including the carpet and drywall.  Once all signs of initial water damage were removed, we placed a total of 28 air movers and 4 dehumidifiers in the Oxford building for three full days.  This allowed us to properly remove any remaining signs of water damage while fully drying the structure.  Once all areas were thoroughly cleaned with our anti-microbial cleaning agent, the business quickly reopened.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford continues to assist our local businesses with their water, storm, and fire restoration needs.  We are proud to be a part of keeping our Chester County community running when it matters most!

Oil Cleanup in Chester County

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that we also provide biohazard cleanup services?  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is highly trained in the removal and cleaning of harmful contaminants in situations involving oil spills, hoarding environments, and other health threatening factors.

During the oil cleanup process, we properly remove and clean all affected areas per OSHA and other health guidelines.  Utilizing our advanced equipment and cleaning techniques, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can handle any extent of oil damage and restore your property to preloss conditions.

Recently, we completed oil damage cleanup services for a local municipality.  Their heating oil had leaked through the ceiling and onto the floor.  The township building had to close temporarily.  Our biohazard team handled the situation immediately in order to minimize the interruption to the building. 

We demolished the extensively affected areas of the property and placed two air scrubbers in the space for a full day.  This equipment along with our odor removal and deodorization procedures eliminated all signs of harmful contaminants in the air, restoring the building to a clean and healthy work environment.  After completing our cleaning and deodorization services for the entire property per industry standards, the township was able to open again the next day.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to provide biohazard services to our Chester County area for a variety of needs.  In addition to fire and water damage, our restoration professionals are also highly trained in biohazard and chemical emergencies.  We follow the health guidelines outlined by organizations such as the CDC and IICRC.

Chimney Fire Damage Prevention

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides fire restoration services for Southern Chester County, no matter the extent of the damage.  During the winter season, there are many potential risks for fire damage including the heat sources we use for our homes.  One such fire hazard is a damaged or unmaintained chimney.  We recommend following the below steps to prevent an issue with your chimney as well as the fire damage it can cause.

• Hire a certified professional to inspect and clean your chimney on an annual basis.
• Caps should be installed on all flues for your chimney.  The caps will prevent dirt and debris from blocking the chimney as well as allow smoke to exit the system properly.
• Ensure that the caps are attached to the chimney correctly.  Inspect for this issue annually and check that the covering on the caps is not allowing dirt and debris into the system.
• Inspect the chimney for loose or damaged components.  Cracks or damaged caps can lead to a chimney fire, should the burning elements inside build up enough.
• Ensure that the chimney isn’t blocked by any objects or outdoor factors.

Hiring a professional to inspect, clean and maintain your chimney is a smart way to keep your home safe from fire damage.  Chimney damage can also lead to smoke and soot damage in your home, which is often difficult to remove and can cause a more significant issue if you attempt to clean the areas improperly.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has the expertise and equipment needed to remove and restore all signs of fire damage in your home.  We provide demolition and reconstruction services, cleaning solutions, odor removal techniques and more in order to help eliminate all signs of damage that occurred.

Boiler and Furnace Fire Damage Prevention

1/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides fire restoration services in our Chester County area.  We often demolish, clean and restore properties after fire damage has occurred due to situations such as improper heating equipment.  Boilers and furnaces often malfunction and cause issues that can lead to substantial fire damage.  It is important to inspect and maintain your heating systems on a regular basis.  A certified professional is recommended in order to do so.  However, there are issues you can look for on your own in order to prevent a potential fire damage event.

Check for Signs of Oil Leaks

Oil drips or leaks indicate that oil is not burning properly in the system.  Black soot on the surfaces of your home can also mean that the oil has begun to slowly exit the burner or furnace improperly.

Be Aware of Strange Odors or Noises

An odd odor can mean that the combustion gases inside the chamber are not exiting the system properly.  Oil begins to build up and can then potentially burst out of the system as the oil collection grows, leading to a puffback.

Noises such as a bang or puffing sound signify a heater problem and that the oil isn’t fully burning as well.

Clean the System

Clean areas of the boiler or furnace including the heat exchanger, fan and filters.  This will keep the system clear of dirt and dust that can collect and cause a future problem.  Regularly vacuum in order to keep dust out of the system.  Be sure to turn the furnace off, allowing time for it to cool down before cleaning.

Inspect and Replace Components as Needed

Replace the oil nozzle and air filters on an as needed basis.  Air filters should be changed 1-2 times per year.  You should also ensure that there are no clogs or cracks in the system including in your chimney.

Check for Other Issues

If the burner fails to stay on, the chamber may be out of oil or have a clog.  Should an oil nozzle be clogged or damaged, the oil will not burn completely and collect inside the system.  The unburned oil may lead to a puffback.

Should you have issues with your furnace or boiler this winter, we recommend that you hire a professional to perform the proper maintenance procedures for the system.  Should your heating equipment malfunction, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can assist with your fire damage needs.  We provide complete fire restoration services including smoke and soot removal and odor deodorization techniques in order to help restore your Chester County home from unwanted pollutants.

Back in Action at the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl!

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO held its annual First Responder Bowl in order to thank our local and national heroes for another year!  This college football game is held every year in Dallas, Texas.  The game recognizes our national police, fire and other emergency personnel for their contributions to our communities.

During this game, the Air Force Falcons and Louisville Cardinals fought for victory, with the Falcons taking the win.  SERVPRO honored our brave First Responders for not only this bowl game, but also during several others across the nation.

Whether it is a fire, biohazard situation or other emergency need in Chester County, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to assist our local police departments and firefighters when needed.  We are proud to have the opportunity to thank our local heroes on a grander level with this event, and we hope to continue to show our appreciation in this way!

Building Fire Safety

1/13/2022 (Permalink)

In the event of a fire, it is critical to prepare a fire safety plan including preventative measures and evacuation protocols for properties.  This includes residential buildings such as apartment complexes with multiple levels.  In an emergency, the risk of being harmed drastically increases, as does the extent of structural damage.  The National Fire Protection Association lists several actions you can take in order to keep all residents safe from harm.

• Install a sprinkler system for the entire building.
• Ensure that all safety protocols are being utilized including the installation of fire alarms and the communication of procedures to follow in the event of a fire, including evacuation plans.
• Place clear Exit signs throughout the building.  All residents should be aware of multiple exits and stairwells in the event that one exit is inaccessible.

Be sure that all residents are aware of the proper protocols to follow during a fire:

• In the event of a fire, a tenant may pull the fire alarm as they exit the building to alert all residents as well as the fire department.
• Your building may make an announcement throughout the building on how to handle the emergency.  Be sure that tenants know to follow the protocols set forth.  Tenants should only use the stairs.
• When exiting a room, feel the door before opening it.  If the door feels hot, do not open the door and use another exit.  If it feels cool, leave using the closest exit.
• If someone can’t exit the building, they should shove wet towels around the door and vents to minimize the amount of smoke that has entered the property.  After the fire department is called, they should alert them to where they are by making a clear signal outside of the window.

Should you suffer a fire at your large residential or commercial complex, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help to restore the extent of the fire damage.  Our fire restoration team provides fire damage services for small and large scale disasters to include services such as demolition, smoke and soot removal, odor deodorization and reconstruction in order to help restore your property.

Fire Safety During Winter Storms

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

This winter, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford would like to remind you to stay safe and follow the proper safety procedures during a winter storm.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, many residential homes suffer fire damage during the months of December, January and February.  This is due to fire hazards such as portable heaters.  There are several precautions you can take in order to remain safe this winter season.

• Ensure that your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly by checking them once per month.  Change the batteries as needed in order to stop potential fire damage before it progresses.
• Generators should be used outdoors and kept away from windows and doors.
• Keep portable heaters away from flammable materials.  Items such as clothing and curtains should be at least three feet away.  Heaters should also be turned off when you leave the room.
• Prepare a fire evacuation plan for the home.  There should be two options for escaping the premises.
• Prepare for a power outage and create an emergency kit including flashlights and blankets.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides fire damage services for residential and commercial properties.  Should you suffer fire, smoke or soot damage due to a winter storm or other issue, our team can restore all fire damages to include reconstruction of what could not be salvaged.  We thoroughly clean all surfaces, removing all signs of smoke and soot, as well as provide odor deodorization services to remove all odors and harsh pollutants in the space.

Are You Prepared for Winter?

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Winter is here, which means frigid temperatures and the potential for heavy snowfall.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always prepared for these winter weather factors since they can lead to issues such as frozen pipes and roof damage.  These common issues can then lead to substantial structural and water damage for a home or business owner’s property.

There are several steps you can take in order to help prevent severe water and storm damage this winter:

• Inspect your home for any signs of frozen pipes.  If pipes freeze and break, water damage will follow.  Exposed pipes should be insulated.  Open the outdoor pipe valves to allow excess water to escape, rather than collect and freeze inside the pipes.  Opening the faucets and allowing water to slowly drip out can also help to prevent a collection of water inside the pipes.  Should you have a frozen pipe, a hair dryer or heating pad can be used to thaw the affected area.
• Inspect the structure, repairing any damages.  This includes areas such as your roof and walls.  Snow should be removed from a roof before it collects at a substantial rate.  A large amount of snowfall can lead to a roof collapse.  Leaving snow on the roof will also allow the snow to freeze and potentially cause an ice dam, preventing excess water from exiting the roof through the gutters and to instead leak into your property.  Be sure that your walls are also sealed properly as to not allow cold air or water to enter the home or facility.
• After a winter storm, you should inspect your property for signs of damage.  This includes structural damage and the formation of snow and ice that can cause water damage as it melts.
• It is also important to stock up on supplies including shovels, salt for your driveway and walkways, and an emergency kit in case of a power outage. This kit typically includes items such as blankets and warm clothing.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers emergency services for those in Southern Chester County affected by significant storm or water damage this winter!  Our water restoration team is equipped with the proper equipment and IICRC training in order to quickly and efficiently restore your home or business from unexpected damage.  We also provide Reconstruction services for structural issues such as those involving a roof or ceiling collapse.  Our team is always prepared and ready to assist our local community!

Storm Causes Mold Damage in Coatesville

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

The storm damage left behind by Hurricane Ida was extensive throughout the Chester County region.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford helped to recover over 150 local homes and businesses from the significant flooding and structural damages they faced.  Recently, our team also received calls for mold damage due to the effects of the storm.  One homeowner in Coatesville who suffered severe storm damage had attempted to restore the home on his own.  However, the damage made a comeback when mold began to form and take over the entire property.  While the water had been removed from the premises, not all signs of water damage had been eliminated, causing what was left behind to grow into drastic mold growth.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recommends hiring a certified restoration professional to thoroughly complete storm restoration services in order to prevent a mold issue after a large storm event or any type of water-related damage.  Our restoration team quickly handled the mold contamination for the homeowner by removing all signs of mold growth.  In situations like this, we use our advanced air movers to fully remove all signs of hidden water.  We also utilize our air scrubbers in order to thoroughly remove harmful contaminants in a property.  This includes the removal of mold spores in the air which can cause respiratory and other health issues for those on the premises if not handled properly.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can handle any extent of mold damage for residential and commercial properties in Southern Chester County.  We specialize in advanced cleaning protocols to ensure all signs of mold are fully eliminated from your home or business.  We are proud to serve our local community with services including mold remediation, fire and water damage, biohazard cleanup and reconstruction.

Sewage and Mold Damage for a Landenberg Business

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford visited a local business in Landenberg after they suffered both mold damage and a sewage issue in the same week.  After the facility’s bathroom had backed up with sewage, the harmful contamination had flowed into various areas of the building.  The substantial amount of damage had also caused sewage to be forced out of a sink in another area, creating more sewage damage that had traveled onto areas of the floor and drywall.

In addition, the sunroom of the building had previously suffered flood damage and had left behind a mildew odor that turned out to be mold growth.

Our mold remediation and biohazard professionals helped to restore all of the affected areas in the facility immediately.  We responded to the sewage damage during the facility’s business hours in order to allow minimal closure for the business.  After the water extraction process was complete and the affected areas had been thoroughly disinfected with our plant-based antimicrobial cleaning agent, we then placed a dehumidifier in the space for three full days.  This ensures that the structure is fully dry in all areas.

During the mold remediation process, we removed the wet insulation and drywall of the affected surfaces.  We also placed an air scrubber in the affected area for a full 24 hour period to allow mold spores to be captured and eliminated from the air and all surfaces.  Once this was complete, we applied our anti-microbial cleaning agent for mold growth to the surface areas.  Now that this Landenberg facility was in good condition, they were able to get back to business right away.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to assist our local community of Southern Chester County with their immediate business needs. No matter how large or small a disaster you face in your commercial facility, our restoration and cleaning team is here to help with your fire, water, mold, storm and cleaning needs!

Commercial Water Damage in Kennett Square

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

After a broken pipe caused water damage in a Kennett Square gift shop over the weekend, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford responded to assist before the problem could get worse.  Several carpeted areas had been affected by the water damage as well as some content.

Our water restoration team removed the affected items as well as the damaged baseboard and carpet pad.  We extracted all water from the carpet and fully dried the areas according to IICRC standards.  Our drying technique included placing two air movers and a dehumidifier in the space for three full days in order to ensure no further signs of water or potential mold growth would appear.

Our water restoration process is then completed with our advanced cleaning solutions for cleaning and treating the space with an anti-microbial chemical that is environmentally friendly for the business and their needs.

Due to our emergency services, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was able to restore the water damage so that the business could be open the following week with only our equipment still on site.  We are always “Ready for Whatever Happens” for our local community, and we offer a 24/7 immediate response time for local commercial and residential properties in Southern Chester County!

Restoring Your Chester County Commercial Property After Water Damage

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response.  Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford works quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area.  In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your Chester County facility.

Our water restoration professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns.  We strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints.  We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity.  So when an emergency situation arises in your Chester County business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in the cleanup and restoration of properties after fire, water or mold damage.  Our team is highly trained in restoring commercial facilities, and we offer immediate services for businesses in need.

Preventing a Roof Collapse this Winter

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

Winter storms can cause significant structural damage, including the possibility of a roof collapse.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recommends that homeowners as well as businesses have their properties inspected for any issues or signs of damage before the first winter storm.

Our restoration team often assists with water damage that is caused by roof leaks and other unexpected winter storm disasters.  While storm damage can’t always be prevented, there are several steps you can take in order to avoid a roof collapse this winter.

• Inspect your roof for any issues such as wet roof tiles or leaks.  Cracked or bent walls can also be a sign of a damaged roof.
• Insulate your attic properly.  Doing so will help to melt the snow on your roof quickly so that it doesn’t accumulate too extensively.
• Do not allow the snow to collect too significantly on the roof.  Too much weight can cause a roof collapse.  A substantial amount can also cause the melting snow to leak into the property if there is structural damage.
• Snow should be removed from the roof carefully and in even layers from each side of the roof.  This will maintain a consistent weight on the roof and prevent potential roof damage.  Two to three inches of snow should be left on the roof since this will melt naturally and help to eliminate other issues.
• Remove all signs of dirt and debris from your gutters and drains.  This will allow the water from the melting snow to efficiently flow away from the structure and prevent any form of water collection around the foundation.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers immediate assistance for water and storm damage in Southern Chester County.  We provide services outlined by the IICRC in order to help restore our local community from damages including roof collapses, leaks and other forms of storm damage.  We also immediately offer roof tarping and reconstruction services in order to fully repair or replace your damaged roof and other elements of your home or facility.

Shredding Event with Longwood Fire Company!

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently held a Shredding Event in Kennett Square with the Longwood Fire Company and WSFS Bank.  Many members of our community participated in the event, which was a huge success!

We also accepted monetary donations for the fire company during the event and raised over $1200 for the department!  We are grateful for the generous contributions of our local community and to have a part in assisting the Longwood Fire Company with their needs!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always happy to sponsor and hold these events for our local first responders.  We have held shredding events for many fire departments in our area, and we are proud to partner with WSFS Bank and Wiggins Shredding in order to continue to support our local heroes.

Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration for Southern Chester County!

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall.  Basements are inherently prone to flooding, because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level.  There are a number of reasons why your Chester County basement could flood, including:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure.  The longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford and letting our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly.  We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• Our Technicians are Highly Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – 610-268-8620

We’re Ready To Help!

Faster to Your Water Damage!

11/19/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive.  Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.  This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Occurs Within Minutes:

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Damaged furniture finishes may causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

Drywall begins to swell and break down.

Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.

Furniture begins to swell and crack.

Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.

A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

Mold and mildew may grow and spread.

Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.

Metal begins to rust and corrode.

Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.

Paint begins to blister.

Wood flooring swells and warps.

Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.

Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.  Our team is highly trained in property damage restoration.  From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Mud and Water Damage in Coatesville

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently assisted homeowners in Coatesville after they suffered severe storm damage.  A local insurance agent had called us to assist with services for flood damage that had affected the entire first floor of the property.  Approximately 18-24 inches of mud and water had traveled throughout the home.  Furniture was saturated and kitchen cabinets were damaged in addition to other areas.  The significant flood damage had also created a strong odor in the space.

Our storm restoration process took several days; we removed all signs of water damage which included the utilization of our air movers as necessary.  During this process, we fully dried the structure per IICRC standards in order to eliminate further water or mold damage.

Our storm restoration team provided advanced cleaning services for all content as well as removed the affected carpet and drywall.  We also completed cleaning and odor deodorization services in order to eliminate the unpleasant odor and potentially harmful contaminants that had entered the home.

This storm restoration project was no easy task, but we were happy to help restore the overwhelming damages for the homeowners.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford strives to make every unforeseen and unbearable disaster that your home or business faces as stress-free as possible.  We offer free consultations for your damages and can help assist you through the insurance process.  Our team is “Here to Help” 24/7 for your immediate water, storm or fire damage needs!

Frozen Pipe Season!

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

With winter approaching, frozen pipe season will be arriving shortly.  When the temperature declines, pipes tend to freeze and the water inside the pipes expands.  This often leads to a pipe break that can cause significant water damage to your home or business.  There are simple and preventative actions you can take in order to prevent this issue in your own property.

• Pipes should be insulated.  Areas where there is no heat such as the attic and basement areas should be as well.
• Shut off the water supply that is used for your outdoor hose bibs.  The hose bibs should then be opened to remove excess water and prevent freezing in low temperatures.
• Keep the thermostat set at a consistent temperature.
• In extreme weather conditions, cabinet doors can be opened in order to allow warmer air to reach the pipes and help prevent freezing.  Opening your faucets to allow water to drip through the pipes will also help water to continue traveling through the pipes instead of freezing.
• To prevent water damage when a pipe is frozen, turn on the faucet in order to allow water to flow through as the pipe unfreezes.  Heat the pipes using a hair dryer or hot towel.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to assist our Southern Chester County community with their water damage needs this winter.  Our water restoration team and the American Red Cross recommend these preventative steps in order to help prevent an often overwhelming water damage event in your own home or facility.  We offer immediate assistance for those that suffer water or storm damage caused by issues such as frozen pipes.

Commercial Storm Damage in Chester County

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to aid the Chester County community with their restoration and cleaning needs.  We often assist with large-scale disasters including storm damages caused by hurricanes, flooding and sewage issues.  Recently, we have worked for weeks to help restore our community from the effects of Hurricane Ida.  With frozen pipe season arriving shortly, we will continue to assist with storm damage in our area.

Recently, we completed storm damage services for several local businesses affected by various storm-related events.  One restaurant in Coatesville was so heavily affected by flood damage that the business had to close temporarily.  The water damage had flooded the basement as well as first floor of the facility.

It took our storm restoration team a few days to successfully provide the proper mitigation and drying techniques to the affected areas so that the business could reopen as soon as possible.  Many other businesses have suffered similar storm damages in our area, but the response is always the same.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford responds immediately to each unique storm event, and our IICRC-trained team is always on standby for those unexpected emergencies.

Bonfire Safety

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

This fall, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford would like to remind everyone to stay safe.  Bonfires are very popular throughout Chester County this time of year, and it is important to follow the proper safety procedures to avoid a fire hazard.

• During heavy winds, do not light a bonfire since this can cause the sparks and flames to travel onto a property.
• Do not leave the fire unattended.  Sudden flareups can occur, and they should be addressed immediately.
• A hose or other water source should be kept nearby in case the fire begins to drastically grow.
• Flammable materials such as aerosol cans should not be burned.  Some chemicals can cause a fire to grow uncontrollably and create dangerous fumes.
• To keep control of the fire, add wood periodically.
• When putting out the fire, make sure the ashes are also cooled down and will not cause a fire hazard.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford hopes that everyone stays safe this fall.  Following these safety procedures for a bonfire will help to keep you and your family safe.

Should you experience any type of fire, smoke or soot damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers 24/7 emergency services for our local Chester County area.  We are always prepared for any size fire disaster!

The Proper Fire Extinguishers for a Commercial Emergency

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford 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 Kennett Square/Oxford 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.

Flood Prevention in Chester County

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

The flooding and sewage disasters suffered by our local Chester County community recently were quite overwhelming for those involved.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford strives to make each storm event a pleasant experience for the parties involved, but we also recommend ways to prevent the storm damage from occurring in the first place.  Below, we list several preventative actions you can take in order to stop flood damage in its tracks!

Clean your Gutters. 

By ensuring that your drainage system is clear of clogs, storm water will flow properly through the gutters and away from your property.

Check your Storm Drains. 

Have your drains checked for quality performance of draining storm water.

Inspect your Home for Issues before the Storm Begins. 

Structural damage to your foundation, roof and other areas can cause leaks or greater water damage during a large rain storm.

Review your Insurance Policy.

Before a storm occurs, we recommend that you discuss your policy and coverage with your insurance provider.  Flooding and other storm issues aren’t always covered, so it is critical to choose the policy that works best for you.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help our local Chester County community with their storm damage needs, including hurricane and tornado damages.  Our Disaster Recovery Team can respond at a moment's notice to your emergency, and we also offer 24/7 services for your home or business.  Click here to learn more about the steps to take after you suffer flooding or other storm damages!

Hurricane and Storm Preparation in Chester County

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Hurricane season runs until November 30^th.  During this season, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford would like to remind everyone in Chester County and beyond to stay prepared for future storms and inspect your home for any potential issues that can lead to storm damage.  By completing often simple inspections of your property, a much larger storm issue can often be avoided.  For instance, a well functioning sump pump can alleviate your fears of a flooded basement.  Repairing broken shingles or other structural elements of your roof can help to prevent an unforeseen water leak.

Please remember to thoroughly inspect your home or business as well as follow proper safety procedures during the event of another hurricane or storm incident. 

• During heavy flooding, do not attempt to drive through a flooded road.
• Stay stocked up on supplies such as a first aid kit, batteries and everyday essentials in the case of a power outage.
• Stay tuned to local news outlets for updates on the status of a storm.

Our Chester County community suffered many devastating losses due to Hurricane Ida.  We hope small but significant preparations such as these will help to reduce the amount of storm damage you experience.

For further preparations for storm damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is also happy to offer our Emergency READY Profile Program to help your business in the event of an emergency.  This is a free assessment of your building where we compile pertinent information about your building such as water shutoff locations and electrical systems.  The info is then placed in a digital file for you to access at a moment's notice.  For more info on our ERP or storm damage services, give us a call!

Hurricane Ida's Storm Damage in Chester County

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

After Hurricane Ida hit our Pennsylvania area a few weeks ago, the storm damage left behind was overwhelming to say the least.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford alone received over 150 calls to assist with hurricane and tornado damages in Chester County for issues including flooding, sewage and structural damage.  Our storm team rose to the challenge and immediately aided in assisting each residential and commercial property affected.

This photo shows only one example of the many properties affected by the extensive storm damage in Chester County.  After weeks of hard work, we are still continuing to assist those affected by the storm, and we are grateful to have the resources in order to do so in this time of need.

If your home or business was affected by the hurricane, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help!  Chester County also offers several resources to assist those impacted by the storm damage.

Understanding Your Stormwater Damage

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

When your Chester County home or business suffers stormwater damage, it is important to identify what type of damage you’re dealing with.  This will help you to determine what steps to take next as well as what the stormwater means for the affected areas and your overall health.

There are three types of water:

Clean Water

This is water from a source such as rainwater.  Water from a broken pipe is also considered a source of clean water damage.

Gray Water

This is slightly contaminated water.  When stormwater is left untreated, bacteria and other contaminants begin to grow and cause a problem.  This can occur with water from a pipe leak or other plumbing issue as well.

Black Water

This is highly contaminated and dangerous water that is filled with fungi, bacteria, or even chemicals.  Sewage and floodwater are two common forms of this type of damage.

When you are faced with clean stormwater damage, be sure to turn off the circuit breakers in the damaged areas of the building, and do not enter those areas.  Remove excess water and move items that may be sensitive to moisture such as artwork and computer equipment.  When the water damage is caused from a plumbing issue, shut off the water source or have a certified professional do so. 

When the stormwater is contaminated, stay clear of the areas and allow a biohazard professional to handle the cleanup properly.  Do not turn on the HVAC system or use fans to dry the affected areas, since the air can potentially spread the contaminants.  Discard any items that have been affected by the damage.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can handle all forms of water and storm damage in our local Chester County area.  We also specialize in biohazard events where contaminated water is present.  Often, advanced cleaning techniques are necessary to fully restore the affected areas when this type of damage is involved.

No matter the form of storm damage you may suffer, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help!  This includes services for reconstruction such as drywall installation and roof repairs.  We are always prepared to make your storm damage event “Like it never even happened.”

Commercial Sewage Cleanup in Coatesville

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently assisted with overwhelming sewage damage at a local non-profit in Coatesville.  Heavy rainfall and flooding had created a sewage backup, causing four inches of contaminated water to make its way into the basement of the building.

Our biohazard team completed mitigation services for the affected areas as well as performed the proper drying and cleaning procedures needed to help ensure a healthy working environment for this facility.

While we do offer content cleaning and restoration services, some of the content was too severely damaged by the sewage to be recovered.  We disposed of this content and offered the services of a partner of ours for electronic restoration services for all digital equipment affected.

In addition to complete sewage restoration services, we will also be completing an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for this Coatesville facility. This is a digital file where all emergency information is stored and accessible in the event of another emergency.  This file is a helpful tool in emergency preparation for your commercial building, and SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to offer this to all local businesses for free!

Severe Flood Damage in Chester County!

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

This month, Chester County suffered a severe storm that led to major flooding throughout the Southeastern Pennsylvania area.  With over seven inches of rainfall, the storms had caused trees to collapse, creeks to overflow and the flooding of many roadways and communities.  A couple dozen water rescues had been reported due to the height of the water in addition to just as many calls to our local SERVPRO franchise.

Our storm restoration team at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford responded to each storm damage event immediately and provided the proper water mitigation, drying and cleaning techniques needed for each unique flood damage situation.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers 24/7 emergency services for storm disasters such as flood damage, and we have the response crews available to respond at a moment’s notice!

Sewage Damage Prevention

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we know that water damage is never pleasant.  Sewage damage makes matters worse and often more overwhelming.  If faced with this type of biohazard damage, the affected areas need to be immediately and properly handled by a certified professional.  Improperly removing the contaminated water or cleaning of surfaces can lead to a larger water damage or health issue.

Sewage damage can be quite unsettling, but there are actions you can take in order to prevent the damage in the first place.  Below, we offer some sewage preventative tips to help prevent a sewage leak in your own home or facility.

• Inspect your sewer system for cracks or other damages where sewage water can potentially leak in.
• Be cautious of what is put in the system.  When cooking, grease and oil shouldn’t be disposed of in the sink.  Paper products such as tissues and paper towels should not be flushed.
• Clogs in the sewer system are not uncommon, and they can lead to a sewage backup.  Be sure to clean your drains or hire a professional to do so on a regular basis.
• Cleaning your drains once a month will help to prevent clogs.  Pour baking soda and white vinegar down the drains.  Let the solution sit in the drains for an hour and then flush them out with a substantial amount of warm water.
• Control your amount of water use.  Using water for long periods of time can cause stress on the septic tank, potentially damaging the system or causing a clog.
• Keep trees and other plants clear of your sewer.  If trees are present near your system, regularly watch for issues with draining and call a professional if you suspect a problem.
• Backwater valves are recommended since they guarantee that sewage not only exits the system properly but that it also doesn’t re-enter the building through the same system.

Should your property suffer a sewage damage event, our team can handle the cleaning and restoration services, no matter how large or small.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is dedicated to providing the expertise needed to help make your sewage disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Sewage Damage in Landenberg

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently completed services for this sewage loss in Landenberg after an unpleasant biohazard situation.  The pipe that connects the sewer system to the home had clogged, causing sewage to leak into the basement.

Our restoration team removed all signs of contaminated water from the affected areas, dried those areas and completed the process with our advanced cleaning and sanitation techniques.  The homeowner was extremely pleased with our crew and the work performed.

Water damage is never pleasant, and sewage makes matters worse and often more overwhelming.  In order to prevent sewage damage in your own home or facility, remember to inspect your sewer system for cracks or other damages where sewage water can potentially leak in.

Disposing of your food and paper products properly, as well as cleaning your drains once a month can prevent a clog in the system.  Backwater valves are also often suggested since they guarantee that sewage not only exits the system properly but that it also doesn't re-enter the building through the same system.

Should your home or facility suffer a water or sewage damage event, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides 24/7 emergency services to our local Pennsylvania area.  For a free quote, give us a call at 610-268-8620!

Hoarding/Biohazard Cleaning in Oxford

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently completed extensive Biohazard and General Cleaning services for a local apartment community in Oxford.  Previous tenants had left one unit in ruins, hoarding content and leaving trash and other contaminated materials within every inch of the apartment.  Our cleaning team spent a number of hours removing all signs of waste and hazardous materials in addition to cleaning and disinfecting the affected areas.

Floors, furniture and other affected content were thoroughly cleaned with our antimicrobial treatment.  We also provided our odor deodorization services to the entire building in order to eliminate the strong, offensive odors that the hoarding situation had created.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has performed various biohazard and general cleaning services for tenants in this apartment community.  We’re happy to do the same for all local communities when it comes to any large or small building disaster!

Cleanup and Demolition of Fire Ravaged Home

5/6/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is currently performing fire cleanup and restoration services on a local home in Oxford.  The property was left in shambles after a fire erupted in the garage.  The garage was completely destroyed and left much of the house unrecognizable as well.  One of our local insurance agents called us to assist with this devastation; our team visited the home immediately to provide Board-up services.

We then returned to remove the overwhelming amount of content in the Oxford home since this was also a situation where hoarding was involved.  At this time, we are continuing to restore this property to preloss conditions.  All fire-damaged content will be cleaned or exposed of.  In addition, we will perform smoke and soot cleaning and odor removal services for the entire structure.  Once the fire restoration process is fully complete, our Reconstruction Department can handle the rest in order to fully make this fire disaster “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers 24/7 emergency services for fire, water and mold disasters throughout Chester County.  Our restoration and cleaning professionals are equipped with the proper knowledge, expertise and equipment in order to help restore any size loss or building in Pennsylvania.  Should your home or facility suffer unexpected fire, water or mold damage, feel free to give us a call at 610-268-8620!

Commercial Cleaning in Oxford

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently performed general cleaning services for a local institution in Oxford.  After construction had been recently completed, the facility had been left with a substantial amount of dust and other debris that was in dire need of removal.  In order to keep the facility running smoothly with minimal downtime, our cleaning team visited the property immediately in order to assess the extent of the damage and begin the process of restoring the building.

We completed a thorough cleaning of the facility including cleaning of the ceilings, walls and floors.  We also completed a deep cleaning of the affected areas including light fixtures, windows, doors and benches in addition to carpet cleaning.  We then performed duct cleaning services to ensure all signs of dust, dirt and other contaminants would not flow through the system and create further damage.

In addition to the deep cleaning of the building, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford had recently performed water mitigation services for this commercial institution after a water leak.  No matter the disaster or extent of damage, we are always available at a moment’s notice to help!  We strive to do the same with every commercial client or organization.  SERVPRO is always “Ready for whatever happens.”

Cleaning Up Route 1!

4/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been proud to volunteer with the Great American Cleanup of PA-Chester County to help clean up our local roads this spring!  Our SERVPRO Marketing Team assisted in collecting trash and other debris along the roadside of Route 1 in Southern Chester County.  We are happy to offer our time for three days of cleanup along this heavily trafficked road.

The Great American Cleanup of PA-Chester County provides cleanup services during the months of March through May.  Many of our community members are happy to assist with this organization’s goal of making our roads a little cleaner for all of us. 

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to be a part of this great cause! To learn more or get involved, visit their Facebook page!

Water Leak in Oxford Gymnasium

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently completed water mitigation for a local church in Oxford.  A water leak had caused significant water damage to the ceiling and floor of their gymnasium.  Our Production team visited the facility immediately to set the proper equipment for the job and to help restore the building.

The gym is back in tact; however, the water damage had also caused the flooring of the gym to buckle and warp.  Our Reconstruction Department is currently working with the head of facilities in order to arrange the next steps for replacing and restoring the damaged portions of the floor in addition to the affected ceiling.  Once this is complete, the gym will be fully restored for the students and faculty.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to assist our local businesses and organizations with any size water, fire, mold or cleaning disaster.  We offer 24/7 emergency services for when situations such as this occur. 

We also offer our free Emergency READY Profile Program (ERP's) to local businesses, which provides a digital file where all important information regarding damages as well as building and utility access can be accessed at a moment's notice. To learn more, give us a call today!

Fire Damage and Content Cleaning in Kennett Square

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently assisted one of our local residents after a large apartment fire in Kennett Square.  This customer’s apartment had been one of many damaged by the fire, including a large portion of the contents inside.  This included clothing and valuables that were left extensively damaged by smoke and soot.

Our cleaning and restoration team provided immediate services to this customer for content cleaning.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in treating and removing smoke and soot damage from surfaces and content after any size fire event.  We also treat each affected item with our odor deodorization techniques in order to fully remove any signs of odor that are left behind.  These completed procedures ensured that the customer’s items would be returned to him good as new and “Like it never even happened.”

In addition to providing smoke and soot cleaning for content, our fire restoration team also provides packout and storage services.  However, we also can handle the entire restoration and reconstruction of a commercial structure.  We are here to serve our Southern Chester County community, no matter how big or small that need may be!

Fire Damage at a Coatesville Apartment Complex

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford worked hard to fully restore an apartment complex in Coatesville after a substantial amount of fire damage.  After a microwave malfunctioned on the fifth floor of the building, one unit was left severely damaged in addition to the unit below.  Both units suffered extensive smoke and soot damage as well as water damage.

Our restoration team handled the complete fire restoration and water mitigation for the affected areas.  We are currently in the Reconstruction phase of fully restoring the Coatesville building. 

We also performed HVAC Duct cleaning for both units to remove the smoke odor from the fire damage in the ductwork.  These services created a fully restored and clean space for the residents!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers fire, water, mold and storm damage services to our local community in Southern Chester County.  We are always prepared to help, and we offer 24/7 immediate assistance for your residential or commercial needs!

Storage and Content Cleaning in Chester County

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that we also store and clean content after fire, water, mold or storm damage?  During the restoration process, content such as furniture and documents can become damaged or simply need a storage space until the affected property is fully restored.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to help with these services as well.

Our cleaning and restoration professionals specialize in removing and cleaning soot from items affected by fire damage, and we can even restore documents that have not been too significantly affected by water, mold or sewage damage.  Contents affected by sewage damage can be harmful, so it's important to hire a certified professional to fully remove and clean all bacteria from the affected contents.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to offer free estimates on storing or cleaning your content in addition to our full range of cleaning and restoration services!  We will work with your insurance company and find the best plan of action for your home or business.

An Open Door Welcomes Extreme Fire Damage in Downingtown

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

These photos show the aftermath of a devastating fire in Downingtown.  However, they also show how the difference of how an open or closed door can make a significant impact on the fire damage that is produced.  While the one area was left severely damaged, another area of the home was left barely affected in the same property.

In the first photo, there is extensive fire damage in the entire room, including along the walls, ceiling and floor in addition to the contents in the area.  The door was left open to this space.  The second photo indicates minimal fire damage to the walls and structure.  In this particular space, the door was closed off to the rest of the home and prevented the fire from producing drastic destruction.

Since a fire can happen when we least expect it, it is critical to always prepare for these disasters.  By using doors to shut off each living area from the rest of a property, the fire, smoke and soot that is present will have a more difficult time reaching those areas.

A closed door lessens the oxygen to a fire which also prevents its strength and growth.  It also adds a significant amount of time for those finding an escape route.  It is recommended that you have an escape route in place in the event of an emergency.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford successfully cleaned and restored this Downingtown home to preloss conditions.  These types of disasters are often overwhelming and stressful for those involved, so we hope that our local community continues to follow the proper safety procedures in order to prevent or limit the extent of fire damage encountered.  Many of these safety guidelines can be found from the National Fire Protection Association.  Should your home or business endure fire, smoke or soot damage, we’re here to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Duct Cleaning in Thorndale

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently completed a crucial duct cleaning at a local home in Thorndale.  The dirt and debris had accumulated so drastically in the air ducts and HVAC system that it took a full day to remove and clean each vent in the home. 

When contaminants such as dirt, dust, and pollen are left to build up in your system, they are then circulated throughout your home, which can affect your indoor air quality.  This is especially a concern to those who have asthma or other respiratory issues.  Therefore, a thorough duct cleaning can leave any home or business with a cleaner and healthier environment.

In addition, cleaning your air ducts and HVAC system can help to remove any unwanted odors and also help prevent mold growth.  Our SERVPRO team will discuss your options with you and help you decide if the service is necessary based on the damage in your ducts.  We offer free estimates for our duct cleaning services, and we are also happy to offer assistance with damages due to fire, water, mold and additional cleaning services.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to assist our local Thorndale community and the rest of Southern Chester County with any damages to their home or facility.

Ozone Treatment for Fire and Smoke Damage

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers any form of fire or smoke damage, it often takes a powerful treatment to remove the unwanted odor from the affected areas.  This is often the case for the removal of nicotine as well as other forms of smoke damage.  This form of damage can reside on many surfaces including on your carpet, furniture, walls, ceilings and even clothing.  This damage can be extremely difficult to remove without the proper smoke restoration equipment.

To eliminate the offensive odors, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers a specialized Ozone treatment in order to fully remove all airborne contaminants and odors in the air, therefore fully leading to a clean and healthy environment.  We recently used this treatment for a home in West Grove after she requested a cleaning to eliminate the cigarette smoke odor in her home.  This treatment can also often be used in cases of severe mold remediation.  

What is Ozone Treatment?

Ozone treatment involves a piece of equipment that traps the air in a home or facility.  It then uses electricity to alter the components of oxygen until they form those of ozone.  The ozone then attaches to the odor in the air and neutralizes it.

The treatment is typically performed for at least a 24 hour time period in order to ensure all signs of smoke odor are gone.  Ozone is hazardous to inhale, therefore no one can be present in the property during the time period that the equipment is being used.

During this process, we also often recommend a duct cleaning since the smoke can enter the system and continue to spread throughout the property.  This process will eliminate further risks to your health.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers Ozone treatment in addition to our complete range of fire, water, mold and cleaning services.  Using this treatment and our other advanced restoration techniques and equipment, we can successfully clean and restore your Southern Chester County property to preloss conditions “Like it never even happened.”  We are always ready to help, and we offer 24/7 emergency services for when disaster strikes.

Cleaning Soot Damage in Chester County

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Soot damage is not something we want in our homes after a fire or smoke event has occurred.  The damage can become worse and more difficult to remove if not treated.  In addition to this, soot also becomes more of an issue when it is mixed with a humid climate.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford uses pre-testing methods to discover where the soot has traveled to in your home or facility.  Since soot can spread throughout a property and can even be difficult to see, we use our specialized techniques in order to complete a full analysis of the damage before starting the cleaning and restoration process.  Once we know what we’re in store for, we begin a deep cleaning of all surfaces including areas such as your walls, ceilings, floors and furniture.

Our complete fire restoration services can solve the fire, smoke or soot problem in your home or business before it has a chance to become a larger issue.  We also offer immediate services for those who experience an emergency fire disaster.  To learn more about our full range of services for fire, water or mold, click here!

Boiler Soot Damage in Kennett Square

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Several of our SERVPRO vehicles were parked outside of this local farmhouse in Kennett Square after the homeowner experienced a boiler puffback.  A puffback occurs when smoke or soot is released from a boiler or furnace after technical issues with the system.  The oil in the boiler had built up and caused soot to then burst out of the system and into the home, leading to extensive soot damage.

Often, this type of soot damage leads to carbon chains, which look like cobwebs in your home.  Soot damage can be tricky to clean, since improperly attempting to do so can lead to smearing or further soot damage.  We recommend that you hire a certified professional in order to remove all signs of soot damage from all surfaces.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford uses specialized cleaning techniques including our advanced odor deodorization services to eliminate all signs of soot odor.  In addition to smoke and soot cleaning, we offer complete fire cleanup and restoration services including roof tarping, reconstruction services and ozone treatment for eliminating odors in extreme cases.

Happy to Assist With Fire Damage, COVID-19 and More!

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been less active in community events due to COVID-19 restrictions, but we have been busier than ever with projects including the current repairs at a local warehouse after fire restoration services were performed in November.  This photo was taken during the initial fire cleanup process.

We have also received dozens of calls regarding our cleaning and disinfecting services for COVID-19.  We perform these cleanings on a proactive level in addition to when potential or confirmed cases of the virus have been present in a home or facility.

Recently, we completed emergency cleanings for two local fire departments with exposures to the virus.  Our crew was called out over the weekend to perform our cleaning services including fogging the affected areas with our specialized disinfectant and thoroughly wiping down all surfaces and high touchpoints. 

We’re proud to be able to help our local first responders and community in the fight against COVID-19.  Click here to learn more about our cleaning services in regards to the virus. You can also visit this link to learn about our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program!

Basement Water Damage in Chadds Ford

12/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford received a call from a local homeowner after she suffered water damage in her basement.  The water had destroyed portions of the ceiling in addition to the carpeted floor.  This basement was newly finished, making an unpleasant situation for any homeowner even more upsetting and overwhelming.

Our water cleanup and restoration professionals responded immediately to assist with the water damage and to help put the customer’s mind at ease.  We removed the affected drywall and insulation as well as the damaged areas of the flooring in order to extract all signs of water from the property.

Due to the extent of the water damage in the basement, it took quite a bit of our advanced drying equipment to prevent further water or mold issues.  In order to fully dry the structure, we placed our specialized dehumidifier for a 24 hour period as well as four of our SERVPRO air movers for two full days.

This homeowner was happy that our team was able to fully extract, dry and treat her basement as quickly as we did. Our team is happy to offer this emergency service to our local community.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers an immediate response to those who have suffered from a water or fire damage event in Southern Chester County.  We are always prepared to assist you when disaster hits home. For more information, give us a call at 610-268-8620!

Holiday Fire Safety

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford hopes that everyone has a wonderful holiday season!  While this time of year is full of joy, we would like to remind you to stay safe and take precautions.  This guide from FEMA and the National Fire Protection Association outlines some of the dangers and precautions you can take in order to prevent property or fire damage during your holiday.

After the Christmas season, it is also important to remove your tree before it dries out since this is a fire hazard.  Please dispose of your tree promptly after the holidays and utilize your community’s recycling program if possible.

To limit the risk of electrical fire damage, do not pull the cord to remove a plug from an outlet, since this will cause a risk.  Remember to inspect lights for damages before packing them for next year.  Wrap each set of lights separately and store them in a dry and safe place.

We hope that everyone has a happy holiday!  Should you need our fire cleanup and restoration services, our team is here for you with 24/7 immediate assistance.  We’re here to help make any holiday disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Two Water Damage Disasters in One Day for a Local School

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers immediate assistance to schools, businesses and other facilities that have suffered from fire or water damage.  Our water cleanup and restoration team recently provided this emergency service to one of our local public schools in Landenberg.  A water line had burst on campus, causing extensive water damage in multiple areas including some of the classrooms.

In order to keep everything running smoothly for the students and faculty, we visited the institution immediately in order to perform the proper water remediation procedures.  Once we had successfully done so and the school was ready to open its doors again, we later received an additional call that evening for sewage damage.

The main sewer line had malfunctioned and leaked 15-20 gallons of sewage into the building.  Our team quickly coordinated a crew to visit the property once again and extract all signs of the contaminated water from the premises. 

We were happy to provide our emergency services twice in one day for this local institution.  Our dedication to quickly responding to losses such as these allowed us to minimize the damages to the school and therefore leave the following school day uninterrupted.

To learn more about our emergency commercial services for your business or organization, call SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at 610-268-8620.  Our team can handle any size disaster!

Indoor Air Quality for Your Business

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Is your business prepared for winter?  With the temperature beginning to drop, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford would like to remind our local businesses to check their heating systems before they are turned on for good this fall and winter.  It is important to check for signs of dirt and debris as well.  Once the system is operating, these particles can contaminate the air and leave your employees and clients with an unhealthy work environment.

We advise all businesses and homeowners to complete a full inspection and cleaning of their heating systems by a licensed professional.  These professionals will ensure that your systems are working effectively and inform you of any potential issues regarding the air quality in the building.  Often, they recommend a duct cleaning in order to eliminate these harmful particles. SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to offer this service when needed.

To learn more about how we can help in regards to the air quality or condition of your business, give us a call at 610-268-8620.  We provide services in Duct cleaning, Carpet Cleaning, Odor Removal, Vandalism and more!

Large Commercial Warehouse Fire!

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

Last month, a local business in Lincoln University suffered a large fire in their commercial warehouse.  22,000 square feet of the facility was affected, with most of the building heavily affected by soot damage.  The roof was damaged as well and in desperate need of repairs.

Our fire cleanup and restoration crew have been working hard to help clean, repair and restore this facility since.  For just over three weeks and counting, we have come a long way in creating a new beginning for this business.  We are proud to service our local Pennsylvania area with their fire restoration needs alongside other various organizations, including Power Equipment Restoration and V.P. Electrical Contracting for this particular situation. 

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides 24/7 emergency fire cleanup and restoration services for commercial facilities.  We offer services such as roof tarping, smoke and soot removal, odor neutralization and reconstruction. To learn more about how we can help your business in a fire damage event, give us a call at 610-268-8620!

Water Damage at a Coatesville Senior Living Facility

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently provided services to a senior living community in Coatesville.  After a water heater burst in the facility, a kitchen was left flooded in addition to other areas.  

Our water cleanup and restoration professionals visited the community immediately to perform our mitigation services.  Once all water was extracted, the areas were fully cleaned as well as dried in order to prevent further water or mold damage.

Due to the extent of the water damage, we also had to remove padding and other areas of the affected floors.  Those areas are now fully dry.  Our next step will be providing the facility with our Reconstruction services to replace the flooring and completely make this disaster “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to offer fire, water and mold remediation services to our local communities and businesses.  We offer immediate assistance in order to minimize the interruption to each facility.  We’re happy we were able to help with this water damage event so that those who reside in this Coatesville community can quickly feel back to normal.

Warning Signs of Flooding

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

If flooding occurs in your home, it can leave devastating damage to the property including structural and foundation damage.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides water and storm restoration services to many homes and businesses that have experienced flood damage, but the problem can be prevented.  After buying a house, it is also critical to have a certified inspector check your home for signs of prior flooding in order to eliminate further future damage.  Below, we list some signs to look out for from the Inspection Certification Associates, which a home inspector will inspect for you.

• Efflorescence on the foundation or basement walls is a common sign of a significant flooding problem.
• Exterior wood rot is a sign of extensive flooding in the past.
• Water stains on framing is important to inspect, since this can mean the structure is in danger of damage.
• Mold and mildew on the ceiling or upper walls is a sign of a potential water leak.  If the mold is on the lower walls or in corners of the structure, this is another sign of flooding.
• Foundation cracks are important to check for, especially when other signs of flooding are present.
• Widespread and discolored water stains on drywall can potentially signify a prior issue.
• Rusted metal such as door hinges or rust stains means the area was affected by water damage at some point.

These significant problems all signify a past flooding issue in the home.  If you or an inspector discovers any of these issues, it is important to call a restoration professional to fix the problem.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides water and storm restoration services for properties that have experienced flooding and other damages.  We also offer 24/7 emergency services in addition to mold remediation, should the water damage lead to mold growth.

We Offer Reconstruction Services for Storm Damage!

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides Reconstruction services?  In addition to our water, fire, mold and storm restoration services, our franchise is proud to hold an entire Reconstruction division as well.  Through this department, we finish what was started during any size disaster for your home or business.

During the storm of Hurricane Isaias, our mitigation crews worked tirelessly to recover hundreds of properties from the severe storm damage that occurred.  Our storm restoration crews successfully mitigated, dried and treated the affected areas of all locations affected.  We removed drywall and other portions of walls, ceilings and flooring as needed in order to prevent the damages from growing worse.

Once this initial process was done, many of these customers asked our Reconstruction team to restore the damaged areas.  This division utilized our range of services including roof repair, floor and carpet repair, and painting in order to fully make each building affected by storm damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford's storm restoration team and Reconstruction Department are proud to work side by side in order to help with the damages of any size water, fire, mold or storm disaster.  We offer 24/7 emergency response to storm events including hurricanes and flooding.  Give us a call at 610-268-8620 to learn more about our entire range of services!

Stormwater Damage

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Stormwater can be a significant problem for your home or business if left unnoticed.  A large collection of rain can cause areas of a building to flood or cause structural damage to a roof as well as foundation issues.  Septic systems can also be negatively affected by this, leading to a health hazard.

• Ensure that your septic system and water source is not affected and is indeed safe to use.
• Inspect your property for signs of damage including flooding and land erosion.  These issues will only get worse if they are not properly maintained and resolved.
• Check that your drainage system is properly working in your yard.  A collection of stormwater is not only dangerous to your structural property, the water can become full of contaminants and debris that are unsafe to enter or surround the building.

Stormwater and other storm damages can be overwhelming and cause more destruction than what is expected.  It is critical to inspect your property for signs of these damages in order to prevent a larger water damage issue.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers full services in storm damage cleanup and restoration.

We also offer storm and biohazard services for disasters involving sewage and other dangerous contaminants that need to be properly mitigated by a team that is professionally certified.  Our crew is IICRC-certified to do so, and we are ready to take on any extent of water or storm damage!

How to Thaw a Frozen Pipe

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

With winter quickly approaching, a leading cause of water damage is due to pipes that freeze and break.  Pipes tend to freeze in low temperatures or in areas of the property where there is little or no insulation.

Thawing frozen pipes can prevent severe water damage during this winter season.  Below, we list some tips from the American Red Cross on the proper techniques when dealing with a frozen pipe.

• Keep the faucet open. This will allow water to slowly start flowing through the frozen pipe, melting the interior of the pipe.
• Apply heat to the pipe until the water pressure is recovered.  A hair dryer, electric heating pad or hot towels are all sufficient options for unfreezing the affected area.
• Do not use any equipment with an open flame to thaw a pipe, such as a propane heater.
• If it is difficult to thaw the pipe, call a certified plumber in order to resolve the issue.
• It is critical to inspect other faucets in order to ensure they aren’t experiencing the same problem.

Treating frozen pipes can prevent water damage such as flooding in your home when the temperatures drop.  Should you experience water damage this winter, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is prepared to offer immediate assistance!  Our water restoration team can handle any size water damage event, which are often due to frozen pipes this time of year.  We hope that these precautions will help to eliminate this issue in your own home or business.  For assistance with any water damage, please feel free to contact us at 610-268-8620.

Electrical Fire Safety

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Electrical fires are more common than you may think, and they can be extremely dangerous for your family and your home.  A minor electrical issue can lead to a severe fire damage event. SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford wants to remind you to inspect your electrical wiring and ensure that there are no issues that can cause a fire.  Some of these issues include flickering lights, hot outlets or plugs, or technical problems with your system.

• Ensure that your wiring is properly installed.
• Contact a licensed electrician to inspect and repair any electrical issues.
• Do not overuse outlets or extension cords.
• Only plug one heat-producing appliance into an outlet at a time.
• Keep appliances unplugged when not in use.
• Never use broken or incorrect plugs, outlets or circuits.
• Do not run cords under doorways or flammable materials such as carpets.

If an electrical fire does break out, there are some ways you can combat the flames.  Turn off the electrical device if possible and your power supply.  Small electrical fires can be extinguished using baking soda. You can also use a Class C Fire Extinguisher, which is specifically designed for fires caused by electrical equipment.

Electrical fires can occur when we least expect them, so it is critical to inspect your home for issues and prevent such a disaster.  Should you experience fire damage of any extent, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help!  We offer 24/7 emergency services for major fire events, and we also can clean and restore any size property no matter the extent of the damage.

Fall Bonfire Safety

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Fall is a great season for many reasons, one of those being the popular bonfires that we share with family and friends.  While this pastime is loved by many, we want to remind you to be safe while attending your fire so that the fun can continue.

• Do not light a bonfire during an extremely windy night as this can cause the sparks and flames to travel onto a structure.
• Never leave the fire unattended and be aware of sudden flareups or sparks.
• Always keep a hose or other water source nearby in case the fire begins to spread uncontrollably.
• Do not burn any flammable chemicals. Aerosol cans and products such as paint should not be burned since they can cause a large fire quickly as well as create unsafe fumes.
• Add wood and debris to the bonfire gradually in order to contain the fire and keep control of the flames.
• When your bonfire is over, ensure that the ashes are cooled down and cover the area with water.

We hope that you are enjoying this time of year and staying safe.  Fire damage can occur in the most unexpected ways, and bonfires can be very dangerous.  Following these precautions will help to eliminate the risk of a bonfire disaster.

Should you experience any type of fire damage, please give us a call at 610-268-8620.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers immediate services to those affected by fire damage.  Whether your home requires a simple soot cleaning or a full restoration and reconstruction of your property, we are here to help make things right and “Like it never even happened.”

Emergency Commercial Flooding

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently responded to an emergency commercial water loss at a local hardware store.  While the lights were changed in the store overnight, the sprinklers were accidently hit, causing flooding throughout a large portion of the building.  The flooding had made its way into a large section of the store, posing a risk to the opening of the business later that day.

Our crews responded immediately to the scene in the early morning hours and remained onsite until the extensive water damage had been mitigated.  It took hours for the water to be extracted and even more time to fully dry the affected areas.  However, due to our quick response time, we were able to prevent the water damage from getting worse and therefore created minimal interruption to this business.

Like in this situation, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always prepared to respond at a moment’s notice for extensive flooding in your home or business.  Our IICRC-certified crew are trained in all aspects of water and storm damage in order to help restore your property from an unexpected disaster.  For more information, give us a call at 610-268-8620!

Fire Safety for Household Candles

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

With winter approaching, candles are a common item used in many households.  These open flames are a cause of fire damage in many homes, particularly in December.  As we begin to ignite these warm and scented items in our homes, please remember to practice the proper safety precautions to help keep you and your family safe.

•  Be sure to blow out any candles in use before you leave the room or go to bed.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than one third of home fires caused by a candle began in a bedroom.
• Candles should be at least one foot away from anything that can catch flames, including clothing and curtains.
• Keep candles and lighters out of the reach of children.
• Place your candles on a sturdy and clutter-free surface.
• Do not let a candle burn down to the candle holder.
• During a power outage, use flashlights instead of candles to eliminate a fire hazard.

Following these safety guidelines will help to eliminate the risk of fire damage in your home.  Should you experience fire, smoke or soot damage, the fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford are always prepared to help!  We offer 24/7 emergency services for cleaning and restoring any size fire disaster.  For more information, give us a call at 610-268-8620!

Fall Fire Safety

10/22/2020 (Permalink)

The fall season brings seasonal traditions and some adjustments to our daily routines as the weather declines.  With these changes come some unwanted risks including fire hazards in our homes.  Below, we list some preventative measures you can take now in order to prepare for the colder seasons.

• Change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. This process should be completed on an annual basis, and the beginning of a new season is the perfect time to ensure your home is safe and prepared for potential emergencies.
• Check your heaters and HVAC systems for signs of failure and damage. Heating systems pose a significant threat of fire damage during the fall and winter months, so preparation and HVAC system inspections are critical in order to eliminate the risk of fire or lack of heat in your home. Any space heaters should be also be placed away from items that pose a risk such as clothing.
• Fireplaces should be inspected annually to ensure they do not pose a risk, and combustible materials should be kept a safe distance away.
• Clear your roof and gutters of debris that can collect and pose a risk if ignited.
• Do not leave a fire of any kind unattended.

With the colder months approaching, the risk of a fire becomes higher than ever.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford would like to remind you to be safe and to practice these safety precautions this fall and winter.  Along with many other preventative actions you can take, these steps are critical in helping to keep you, your family and your home safe.

If your home does experience a fire damage event of any size, our team is here for immediate assistance.  Our fire restoration professionals can handle the entire restoration and reconstruction process for you in order to help ease the stress that often comes with these types of disasters.  For more information, give us a call at 610-268-8620.

Saving Education with Water Restoration

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been busier than ever with water damage events in our local Pennsylvania area.  Our water restoration professionals are prepared to assist with an emergency call at a moment’s notice.  This pertains to some of our local organizations as well, including one of our educational institutions that uses us often for various restoration and cleaning projects.

This particular educational facility was recently left more overwhelmed than most of our customers.  In just over a week, water damage had occurred twice in the same building and we went out immediately both times to perform restoration before the problem could get worse.   We were also called back out for a Biohazard job on campus that was in need of an immediate cleanup.  This institution uses us often, and we always enjoy working with their team in order to help keep everything running smoothly for the students and faculty.

Are You Covered for Storm Damage?

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Torrential downpours, strong winds or a sudden burst of lightning can all lead to storm damage to your home or business.  While there are many steps we can take to eliminate the severity of a storm-related risk, often the damage is unavoidable.  It is critical to not only prepare for the storm itself but also for what becomes of your property once the skies clear.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford would like to remind you to please review your insurance policy and coverage with your agent in order to ensure you are protected when it matters the most.

•  Discuss the details of your coverage with your insurance company.  While many agencies do cover wind damage, some do not.  In addition, water damage is often not covered, despite what you may think.  If you live or work in an area that is prone to flooding, this is something you should be aware of and discuss with your agent.  You should also discuss your deductible and if you have adequate financial coverage in the event of a storm.
• After the storm, you are asked to do what is necessary to prevent further damage to your property.  This pertains to simple solutions outside of what a professional can do to help.  Your insurance agency will cover temporary repairs to the building, but neglect will not work in your favor nevertheless.  Please be sure to do what they ask before help arrives. 
• Taking the necessary precautions before the storm is also a great way to help with storm damage.  Old tree limbs and broken roof shingles are two factors that can pose a risk during strong winds or rainfall.
• Insurance companies also recommend that you make a log and take photos of important items that may need replacing during a storm event. Critical items and files should be placed in an area where they can be taken at a moment’s notice in an emergency.

During this hurricane season, please speak with your insurance agent regarding your policy and coverage.  Being prepared will help lessen the stress and financial aspects of your storm damage.  Should you experience a storm event, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is ready to help at a moment’s notice!  Our 24/7 emergency response team can help to prevent further storm damage shortly after we receive the call for help.  We offer immediate services for fire, water and storm damage in our local Pennsylvania area.

An Overflow of Hurricane Storm Damage

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

Along with many other franchises on the East Coast, our franchise in Pennsylvania stayed busy with over 500 calls for storm damage due to Hurricane Isaias.  Our team was still feeling the effects from the storm for a couple months as more calls continued to come in.  One of those calls was from a homeowner in Downingtown who called a month after the hurricane for more immediate assistance.

Due to the extensive storm damage and how long the water and debris was left in the basement, this was a fairly large remediation project for our crew, much like some of the other properties we saw right after the storm hit. 

We also were very much needed at one of our local educational institutions recently.  In just over a week, water damage had occurred twice in the same building and we went out immediately both times to perform remediation before the problem could get worse.  We were happy to help get these locations back to normal and create positive experiences for both circumstances.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always prepared to help in the event of damages due to storms, flooding, fire and more.  We offer 24/7 emergency services to our local home and business owners and can take on any size disaster.  For more info, give us a call at 610-268-8620!

The Aftermath of Hurricane Isaias Storm Damage

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Our Storm Restoration team has been extremely busy helping to restore many homes and businesses in our local area after the damage that Hurricane Isaias left behind.  In addition to power outages and dangerously flooded roads, the massive rain and winds caused many homeowners and businesses to experience overwhelming water damage.  We received over 500 calls for storm damage including issues with flooded basements, failed sump pumps and sewage backups.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was happy to step up to help our local community with this high impact storm.  Over four weeks after the initial storm, we are continuing to work countless hours to help restore every customer’s property and are still receiving calls for damages.  Our Reconstruction Department is also at maximum capacity in order to repair the destruction and make each customer’s particular disaster “Like it never even happened.” 

When storms happen, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to assist our local community when it is needed the most.  Should another storm invade our area during hurricane season, we will be prepared to help when the skies clear.

Storm Damage in Kennett Square Home

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

Our storm restoration team recently completed water mitigation for a home in Kennett Square after a heavy rainstorm.  The rain had entered the property and flooded their basement.  Some of their contents were affected as well.  This is often an overwhelming situation for our customers, and one that we strive to make better.

Our crew visited the property immediately to start the water cleanup and restoration process.  Once we had removed the debris and extracted all signs of water from the basement, we used a large sum of equipment in order to fully dry the affected areas.  Twelve air movers and two dehumidifiers were placed in the basement for over two days, in order to ensure no water or future mold damage would occur.  We then cleaned the floor with our anti-microbial cleaning agent and left the basement good as new.

When it comes to storm damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to help!  In addition to services in fire, water and mold damage, we also offer reconstruction services and can help in the event of roof damage and other storm-related events.  Please give us a call for more information at 610-268-8620.

Great Progress for Kennett Square Businesses after Fire Damage

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

This was just the beginning of our services performed at the New Garden Plaza II. We are still hard at work at this commercial center.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is hard at work with continuing to help restore a couple of our local commercial centers after the devastating fires they suffered this year.  Both fires broke out in Kennett Square and the businesses affected had suffered severe damages.  Our crew, however, has come a long way and these buildings are strongly progressing towards a new beginning.

One of the commercial centers that we are currently helping to restore is the Willowdale Town Center.  After a fire broke out in early January and had affected three of our local businesses, we rushed to the scene immediately to help.  The buildings have changed drastically for the better since then.  We recently completed sealing, demo, and odor containment for the Sovana Bistro and Nicholas Anthony Salon and Day Spa.  In addition, we are happy to announce that the once-collapsed roof of the building has now been replaced with the help of another reconstruction company.

Our fire restoration team is also moving along quickly at the New Garden Plaza II.  This fire occurred last month and affected all six businesses in the business center.  We have been dedicated to restoring the damages since day one, and we have stayed busy with packing out and cleaning the damaged content, pulling insulation and performing demolition to some of the affected areas of the structure.

Reconstruction will now begin, and the entire roof of the business center will be replaced and restored in a few short weeks.  There will be many other improvements to the building, including new walls, floors, and ceilings.  Electrical and plumbing will be restored as well.

We are thrilled to be making great progress, and hope to have these great businesses back up and running soon! For more information on our fire restoration and reconstruction services for your home or business, please give us a call at 610-268-8620. We offer 24/7 emergency services for fire and water damage in our local community.

Our New Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program!

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is dedicated to helping our local community during this overwhelming time.  We are here to help our local businesses as they reopen and find new ways to help keep their clients and employees safe and healthy.  SERVPRO is introducing a new program that will help keep these facilities clean as well as offer peace of mind to the surrounding community.

Our new Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is more than a standard cleaning service and is designed to help with viruses like COVID-19.  We utilize our hospital-grade disinfectant in order to help clean any size structure.  We also offer collateral for your business to place at your location in order to let your clients know that your facility is safe and clean.

SERVPRO has years of experience due to viruses like Norovirus, H1N1, SARS and bacteria like MRSA.   Additionally, all of our procedures and cleaners strictly adhere to both CDC and EPA guidelines.

 Our cleaning professionals will utilize this new program in order to

• Consult with you on our different cleaning services and tailor a program to your specific needs
• Clean your facility while adhering to CDC and EPA protocols
• Certify that your business has been professionally cleaned while easing the tension of your clients

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our local community.  We are here when it matters most, and are highly trained in other biohazard situations in addition to fire, water and mold services.  For more information, please give us a call at 610-268-8620.

Be Prepared for Hurricane Storm Damage

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always “Ready for whatever happens.”  We are prepared for any size water or storm damage event, including those that occur due to hurricanes.  It is officially hurricane season, which runs from June 1st through November 30th.  These storms are nothing to take lightly, and we need to stay safe now more than ever during these difficult times.

In the event of a hurricane in our area, please remember to inspect your property for roof leaks and other signs of structural damage including loose drains and gutters.  Remove any debris from your roof and watch for pipe breaks.  Identifying hazards and completing simple repairs on your home can help prevent future storm damage.

Remember to listen for weather alerts and remove any outdoor signs or equipment from your property.  Follow all proper safety procedures and remain safe!

Should you discover any type of water or structural damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help for both the minor repairs and the storm destruction that may follow.  Our highly trained and IICRC-certified restoration professionals are available 24/7 and can help you to weather the storm.  Call us for more information at 610-268-8620.

Fire Cleanup and Restoration for Commercial Shopping Center

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is currently restoring the New Garden Plaza II Shopping Center from fire damages after a devastating commercial fire took place last week.  Several of our local fire departments rushed to the scene after smoke was seen coming from the roof of the complex.  Unfortunately, all businesses were affected by the fire and are in desperate need of cleaning and repairs. The local businesses affected are the Barretta’s Italian Restaurant, Cricket Wireless, Kennett Copy & More, Ricciardi Brothers Paint, Beyond Limits Fitness, Kennett Tag & Insurance, and Rumores Estética y Peluqueria Salon.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was on scene immediately to assess the damages and we were happy to get started on the fire cleanup and restoration process this week.  We are currently cleaning and packing out content as well as beginning work on the physical structures of each business, including cleaning the properties from smoke and soot damage.  Our fire restoration crew is always prepared to help during times of disaster, and we will work hard to get each of the damaged businesses back to normal “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration.  We offer 24/7 emergency services for fire, water, and mold issues for residential and commercial properties.  Call us today at 610-268-8620 if you are in need of our help!

Complimentary Proactive Cleaning for Our Local Chester County Fire Departments

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

During this overwhelming and difficult time, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been doing our part to help make a difference in our local community.  Our cleaning and restoration professionals have been happy to help our local homeowners and businesses with their cleaning and disinfecting needs in regards to the COVID-19 virus.  These services include a full cleaning and disinfecting of areas using our hospital-grade disinfectant in order to help eliminate bacteria and viruses.  

We are proud that we were able to have the opportunity to assist our local first responders during this crisis by offering to fully clean the ambulances and facilities of ten fire departments in Chester County for free.  We completed our proactive cleaning services for the fire departments including those in Avondale, Longwood, Kennett Square, West Grove, and the Union Fire Company in Oxford.  We also completed the proactive measures for the Westwood Fire Company, Washington Hose Company and Modena Fire Company in Coatesville, the Keystone Valley Fire Department in Parkesburg, and the Minquas Fire Company in Downingtown.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to help our local fire and police departments in any way possible during this crisis in order to help keep our first responders safe and healthy, along with the rest of our community.  We hope to continue to provide our services to our local area in this time of need, when we are truly needed the most.  To learn more about our cleaning and disinfecting services for the COVID-19 virus, call us today at 610-268-8620.

Equipment Rental for Your Restoration and Construction Needs

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to assist our commercial clients with their cleaning and restoration needs.  We are here to help in any way that we can.  We even offer equipment rentals on our Air Filtration Devices and dehumidifiers.  We often receive calls where the water damage is so minimal that all that is needed is a dehumidifier in order to dry out the affected areas of the property.  This is where our equipment rental comes in handy.  We supply the necessary equipment for homes and businesses to stay dry and free of mold after water damage has occurred.

Our air filtration devices can also be rented for containing dust particles during construction projects such as a home or business renovation.  Commercial buildings and facilities including hospitals often require this type of equipment for their maintenance needs.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford provides this equipment in order to help best fit your needs.  For more information on our equipment rentals and pricing, contact us today at 610-268-8620.

We are Cleaning and Disinfecting Experts!

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables.  Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims.  While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, 610-268-8620

Basement Water Leak in Coatesville

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been staying busy with helping to restore local properties from water damage.  Sump pump failures and water leaks have been very common this month.  One such water leak disaster that we were happy to help resolve was for a homeowner in Coatesville.

After experiencing a water leak in her unfinished basement, the homeowner called us to remove the water and clean up the affected areas.  Since the water was not properly mitigated immediately, the area now had a musty smell and needed a deeper cleaning.

Our water restoration professionals removed all signs of water and dirt residue from the floors and then dried the affected areas for a full 24-hour period.  Once the areas were fully dry, we applied our plant-based microbial cleaning agent to all surfaces, and even cleaned her laundry appliances.

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we clean contents as well and can even restore documents that are not too overly damaged.  We are happy to help in any way that we can when it comes to a water, fire or mold damage event.

Commercial Fire Restoration for Three Businesses

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently received a call from one of our local fire chiefs to help restore a commercial building damaged by a large fire at the Willowdale Town Center in Kennett Square.  The fire drastically damaged the building, which contains four businesses. 

The fire began around 2:00 AM and unfortunately destroyed a large portion of the Sovana Bistro, the Nicholas Anthony Salon and Day Spa as well as a neighboring business, Donze & Donze.  Our crews were on site immediately to board up the businesses.  Once the affected areas were boarded up and the property owners were ready to move forward, we were then asked to complete fire restoration and to clean the damaged contents as well.  This was an extremely dangerous fire, and we had to be cautious of the roof of the Bistro, which eventually collapsed from the extensive fire damage.

This has been a long process for all parties, and our restoration team is still hard at work to repair the damages.  Although it will be a long road for these businesses to fully get back on their feet due to the extent of the destruction, we will keep working to make the fire “Like it never even happened!"

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to offer fire restoration services for our local community.  We answer the call for help immediately so that the proper safety measures and actions can be taken starting at the first hour of the loss. Contact us today to learn more!

The First Responder Bowl!

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was happy to be a part of the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl for the second year in a row!  Our Marketing Manager, Cliff Masscotte and Operations Manager, Brian Arencibia once again got the chance to fly to Dallas, Texas for the college football game honoring our first responders nationwide.  They even got to help pull the flag on the field with many other SERVPRO franchise members!

At SERVPRO, we strive to recognize and support our local police, fire and EMS personnel in every way possible; which is why we were happy to be able to send two worthy candidates to the big game this year.  After receiving nominees from many of our local police and fire stations, we held a drawing and selected Fire Police Captain Andy Skean from the Po-Mar-Lin Fire Department, Station 36 and Officer Mark Todd from the Kennett Borough Police Department to attend the Texas game with free airfare and hotel provided.  Both of these men have given so much to their community and we were happy to be able to honor them in this way.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford will continue to work with and thank our local first responders for everything they do!

Local Chamber Award

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is thrilled that two of our employees were recognized for their community support by one of our local Chambers!

The Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce honored our very own Marketing Manager, Cliff Masscotte and Operations Manager, Brian Arencibia with the award for “Volunteer of the Year” for their hard work and dedication to the Chamber and community!  Cliff and Brian are always willing to help support local Chamber events and have volunteered their time on countless occasions. 

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to be a part of our local Chambers and community, and it means a lot that our employees were recognized for all that they do!  We look forward to working with the Chambers for another year!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers fire, water and mold damage services to local homes and businesses in Southern Chester County. We are always prepared to help and offer 24/7 emergency services for when disaster strikes.

Water Damage in Chadds Ford

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Our water restoration team was happy to respond to an unexpected water leak in Chadds Ford after we received a call for emergency services.  The sink in the upstairs bathroom had been left on and overflowed, causing the second and first floors along with the finished basement to be affected.

This disaster occurred over the weekend, but our crew is always “Ready for whatever happens.”  We were on site immediately in order to begin the water mitigation process, clean up the debris and dry the affected areas.

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford will be there within hours to restore the property.  We offer 24/7 emergency services for your home or business in the event of fire, water or mold damage.  Call us today at 610-268-8620.

Heating Your Business Safely

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

The winter temperatures cause many businesses to use heating equipment in order to keep clients and employees warm throughout the day.  However, just as in your home, there are risks to utilizing this cold weather equipment.  The National Fire Protection Association outlines some of the safety precautions your business can take in order to keep everyone warm and safe.

• Anything that can burn should be at least three feet away from heating equipment including portable heaters.
• Have a professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters or central heating equipment following the local codes and proper measures.
• Heating equipment should be inspected and cleaned every year.
• Ensure your employees turn their portable heaters off before leaving the building.
• For fuel burning space heaters, always use the proper fuel outlined by the manufacturer.
• Test smoke alarms every month.

Following the proper safety measures for heating your commercial building will ensure a safe and warm space for you and your employees.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to help restore our local businesses when they experience fire damage caused by a heat source or other fire hazard.  We are always prepared to clean and restore any fire, smoke or soot damage.

Winter Weather Preparation

12/5/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather means safety risks for your business when it comes to snow.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford understands how critical it is to keep your commercial business running and your employees and customers safe during inclement weather.  Following important safety measures and being prepared for winter will help keep your business running smoothly.

• Before a winter storm, discuss your plan with either your employees or hired contractor.  Cover any sidewalks or parking lots with ice melt.  This will prevent slippery surfaces for those visiting or working in the building.
• Stock up on supplies including snow shovels.  Have cones and caution tape ready in case you need to alert customers or employees about icy surfaces before anyone is able to remove the snow and ice.
• Clear all areas of travel, including sidewalks, parking lots and entrances.
• Make sure your employees know what to do in the event of a storm, such as where to park and how to access the building.

This season can pose a large threat to commercial businesses.  The proper precautions and preparation will eliminate the risks and help keep your company functioning.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always prepared for winter disasters.  We are happy to help and offer 24/7 emergency services in fire, water, and mold damage, no matter the weather.

Sewage Disaster in Downingtown

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

After a local homeowner’s toilet overflowed, this bathroom floor in Downingtown was left in disarray with sewage and water.  The contaminated water traveled into the basement as well, leaving puddles of filth behind.  

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford visited the property immediately to clean and restore the home to its former glory.  Once the toilet and vanity were removed from the affected area and we had torn out the drywall and trim, we began our specialized water mitigation process.  Our water restoration team removed all signs of water and contamination from all surfaces of the home.  We then applied our anti-fungal and anti-microbial treatments to those surfaces in order to clean, sanitize and disinfect every inch of the damaged floors and walls.

The affected areas were left clean and dry, and the home was fully restored to a clean and healthy environment for the homeowner.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was happy to make this sewage disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Sprinkler System Maintenance

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Every commercial business should have a sprinkler system that is properly maintained.  This system can prevent a much larger disaster in the event of a fire and not only help keep you and your employees safe, but also minimize the amount of damage and downtime to your business.  Therefore, it is important to prepare your commercial building and ensure that your sprinkler system is functional.

• Have your system annually inspected, tested and maintained by a professional.
• Ensure that the system you install is equipped to handle the specific layout of the building.
• Identify that there is at least eighteen inches of clearance below each sprinkler head.

By checking your systems on a regular basis and following proper safety measures, you can help to limit the amount of fire damage to your business. 

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to help restore commercial buildings from any size fire disaster. We offer 24/7 emergency services for homes and businesses that experience an unexpected fire.

Water Heater Water Damage

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently received a call from a homeowner in Kennett Square after his water heater malfunctioned.  Four inches of water leaked into the basement and affected some of the contents in the affected areas as well.  Our water restoration professionals were happy to help restore the property.

We visited the property immediately to assess the damages and begin the water mitigation process.  We use advanced equipment to quickly remove hundreds of thousands of gallons of water from your property.  We then place our drying equipment to dry the affected areas in order to remove any signs of water left behind.  This helps prevent further water damage and mold growth.  Our team also cleaned and disinfected this space in addition to the contents damaged by the leak.  We were happy to leave the home with a clean and dry basement “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to help restore homes and businesses from water damage in our local community.  Click here to learn more about our water restoration services!

Preventing Mold Growth After Water Damage

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

When water enters and damages your property, mold can also appear if the issue isn’t taken care of immediately.  The water behind your walls or paneling can lead to mold growth and cause a larger problem for you and your home.  To prevent the spread of mold after a water damage event, you should follow these steps:

• Dry the areas right away.
• Check for musty odors that can be a sign of mold.
• Inspect the exterior of your home or building and drain any excess water that has accumulated around the property. This is critical, since water outside can lead to mold that can spread into the inside of the property.
• Replace materials that can’t be fully dried with materials that are less prone to mold.

These steps are critical in preventing mold damage after water damage is present.  If you experience water or mold damage in your home, the mold remediation professionals at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford are here to help!  Click here to learn more about our mold services!

Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Winter

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

With winter approaching, it is critical to protect your home or business from the frigid temperatures.  Frozen pipes can be a large issue during the upcoming months.  When pipes break, water damage follows.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford restores many homes and businesses from water damage caused by frozen pipes.  However, there are ways you can prevent this common winter disaster by properly maintaining your pipes.

• Insulate any exposed pipes.
• Close indoor valves that supply water outdoors. Open the outdoor valves to drain any excess water.
• Disconnect any outside hoses from your hose bib.
• In dangerously low temperatures, allow cold water to drip from the faucets. This will allow water to continuously flow through the pipes and prevent them from freezing.
• To thaw frozen pipes, use a heating pad or towels soaked in hot water.

If you have any issues with frozen pipes, our water restoration professionals will be there to help.  We offer 24/7 emergency services for our local customers when they experience fire, water or mold damage. Contact us at 610-268-8620 to learn more.

Fire Extinguisher Cleaning at a Local University

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford responded to fire damage at a local university after a box was burned and put out by a fire extinguisher.  The dust and smoke from the extinguisher left extensive residue and damage behind.

This call came in after business hours, but we are always here to help.  Our fire restoration professionals responded immediately to clean and restore the affected areas in order to keep the institution running without downtime for the next school day.  Our team used our specialized equipment and techniques to remove all signs of smoke and fire extinguisher dust from the affected areas.  We then cleaned and disinfected the floor and surrounding areas as well as ensured no fire odors were left behind.  After a few hours, this area of the school was back to normal.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is ready to respond at a moment’s notice to fire damage events for local homes and businesses.  We are proud to help make any fire disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Storm Damage in Oxford Home

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

This kitchen floor had to be removed and restored after the home in Oxford had experienced extensive storm damage.  Rain water had made its way through the homeowner’s glass door and into this space.  Water had also leaked into the basement.  Our storm restoration professionals visited the property immediately to assess the damages and start restoring the property.

We completed a thorough inspection of the water damage in order to determine the extent of damage and perform proper restoration techniques.  We also checked for moisture and eliminated all signs of water to ensure there would be no further water or mold damage.   We then used our specialized equipment including our advanced air movers to dry the affected areas.  These were placed in the home for two days to ensure the structure would be fully dry.  Once the kitchen floor and basement were dry and had been cleaned, the home was free of water damage.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was happy to help restore the home after this unexpected disaster.  Storm damage often causes water and mold issues for homes and businesses, and we are always prepared to help when this happens.  If you experience storm damage, contact us at 610-268-8620 to learn more about our services.

Preparing for Winter Storms

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

With winter approaching, it is important to prepare your home or business from the cold temperatures and risks that come with this season.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford helps to restore properties from winter storm damage due to some of these risks.  We have outlined steps from Agility Recovery that you can take to prepare your property for the winter months and ensure the safety of yourself and others.

Before a winter storm, you should:

• Create a supply kit of needed materials such as salt and snow removal equipment.
• Identify and plan for risks such as loss of heat.
• Seal any openings with caulking and insulation.
• To prevent drafts, repair any areas that may let cold air into the property.

During and After a winter storm:

• Remove snow and ice from your driveway and sidewalks.
• Open faucets so that the water can drip; this prevents the water from freezing in the pipes.
• After the storm, inspect your property for any damages and remove further signs of snow and ice for safety.
• Inspect your heating systems to ensure they are working properly.

Storm damage caused by winter events can lead to devastating issues, such as water damage, but SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help!  This winter, our storm damage restoration professionals will be “Ready for whatever happens.”

Cleaning for HBO Filming in Coatesville

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently received a call from HBO to help clean areas of Coatesville City for a new show they are currently filming.  The new show, Mare of Easttown starring Kate Winslet is being filmed around various parts of the city, and we were excited to help!  Our crew spent days on site to clean and repair multiple locations.  It was an extensive job, but nothing our team couldn’t handle.

HBO and the City of Coatesville were impressed with our services and even asked us to do additional work for the filming sites.  We were happy to help clean up parts of the city while helping to make some movie magic!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to help our local community with their cleaning and restoration needs.  If you need your home or business cleaned or restored, contact us at 610-268-8620.  We will help to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO Shredding Event

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford participated in a shredding event this month with WSFS Bank in Kennett Square for our community.  We were thrilled to have the Longwood Fire Company join us as well.  Several of the station’s firemen volunteered to help, and we are so grateful.  This shredding event was a huge success, and we were happy to fill an entire truck with shredded documents!  Our incredible community also raised over $1,100 for the fire department.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is proud to be a part of this supportive and generous community.  We’re happy that we were able to have a small part in assisting one of our local fire departments.  We hope to do this again soon for our local residents and first responders!

Fire Safety When Cooking

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Cooking is a leading cause of household fires in the United States.  This makes it critical to use precautions when preparing meals for you and your family.  With the holidays getting closer, this is more important than ever.

To keep you and your family safe, follow these cooking safety measures outlined by the National Fire Protection Association.

• When cooking, always stay in the kitchen and do not leave food unattended.
• Stay alert and focused when cooking to avoid the risk of injury.
• Use a timer to ensure food does not burn or simmer. Check the stove or oven regularly.
• Keep flammable materials away from the stove and oven, such as towels and oven mitts.
• Wear clothing that will not come in contact with heat sources.
• Children should stay at least three feet away from cooking areas including hot food and liquids that can cause burns.

 Following these safety measures will eliminate the risk of a cooking fire in your home and keep you and your family safe.  If you experience any type of smoke, soot or fire damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford will be there to help! We restore any size fire disaster, including cooking fires for our local communities. Call us today at 610-268-8620.

Water and Mold Damage in Landenberg

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

A homeowner in Landenberg called us after they had a leak in their basement.  Water had extensively affected the carpet and drywall.  After attempting to have insurance take care of the issue with no success, the water damage had spread, causing mold to grow as well.  Our water mitigation and mold remediation specialists know situations like this all too well.  We know how critical it is to properly stop the damages before they can get worse.

We spent days working on the property in order to successfully remove all signs of water and mold damage from the affected areas.  The homeowner was extremely satisfied with our services and even decided to use us for our duct cleaning service as well.  We are currently working on repairs in order to fully restore the home and make this unexpected water damage "Like it never even happened."

Fire Prevention for Your Business

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

We are happy to help clean and restore areas such as this after fire damage. This photo was taken after a large commercial fire.

When it comes to your business, it is important to be prepared for a fire damage event.  Preparation plays a significant role in preventing such an emergency and in keeping you and your employees unharmed.

A fire can impact your business in many ways, including smoke and soot damage, power outages and loss of important files.  These factors can extensively affect your business’s ability to function.  Therefore, it is critical to check for risks in your own building and prevent as well as fix any issues.

• Dispose of all paper and files you do not need. Combustible materials such as this can easily help a fire to spread.
• If you have any flammable liquids, ensure all containers are sealed. Any spills should be cleaned immediately.
• Clean equipment regularly. If dusty equipment heats up, this is a fire risk. Ensure that your employees are properly trained in the use of equipment.
• Inspect for damaged electrical equipment, and do not overload power sockets.

 These risk factors are some of the most common found in many office buildings. By taking the necessary actions in identifying and preventing risks, you will create a much safer environment for you and your employees.

Fire damage can be overwhelming when it comes to your business, and you may not know where to start. The fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford are always here to help, no matter how large or small the disaster. We take pride in restoring local businesses from an emergency quickly and efficiently.

Fire Damage at a Local Organization

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

This is one of the areas at the Kennett Food Cupboard that we were happy to clean and restore.

After the Kennett Food Cupboard experienced an electrical fire, this local organization called SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford to help clean and restore the property for them.  Our fire restoration professionals visited the property immediately to help.

The fire damage was so extensive that they were forced to close as well as dispose of 50% of their food supplies that are given to those in need.  Luckily, our local community has supported this local business in an amazing way through donations.

Our team is finishing up the cleaning process this week in order to ensure that the doors of this organization can reopen by the end of the week.  Like much of our local community, we’re happy we were able to help!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help when it comes to a fire damage event for your home or business.  If you experience a fire, water or mold disaster, we will be ready to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Washer Water Damage

10/22/2019 (Permalink)

After this ceiling collapsed due to water damage, our crew was happy to complete water mitigation and repairs for the homeowners.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently received a call from Peach Bottom, PA after a homeowner had experienced a significant water damage event on their property.  Their washer had a slow hose leak for three weeks, causing water to leak through the floor into the basement.  The ceiling and drywall were affected, but luckily the damage wasn’t too severe.

Our water restoration professionals visited the site immediately to assess the damages and begin the water mitigation process.  Once all signs of water were removed from the affected areas, we laid down drying equipment for four days to ensure the space was completely dry.  This was critical in order to prevent water or mold damage in the future.

The homeowners were so satisfied with our services and crew that they decided to use us for repairs as well.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is thrilled we were able to make this unexpected disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Our restoration professionals are always here to help!  To learn more about our services in water damage, click here.

Preparing After The Storm

10/21/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO wants to remind you that when it comes to storm damage, it is just as critical to prepare before and after a storm.

Storms are nothing to take lightly, especially when it comes to this time of year with hurricane season still in full swing.  Heavy winds and rain can cause extensive damage to your property including water damage and structural damage to name a few.  However, issues with your home or building can also be a problem after a storm has left its mark.  When you have a water damage event, you may think that the problem is gone once the water is removed from the structure.  Unless all signs of water are completely diminished, that is not always the case and mold may begin to grow.  Therefore, it is critical to have a water restoration professional complete the water mitigation process for you when disaster strikes.

When water is not fully removed from a property and takes hold inside your walls, mold growth will appear. To prevent further damages to your home or business after a storm, you should follow these precautionary steps outlined by CertainTeed:

• Dry the areas right away to lessen the damage.
• Check for musty odors that can be a sign of mold damage.
• Inspect the exterior of your home or building and drain any excess water that has accumulated around the property. This is important, since water outside can lead to mold that can spread into the inside of the property.
• Replace materials that are wet or can’t be fully dried with materials that are less prone to mold.

These steps are critical in preventing even more damage after a storm.  At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, our water, mold and storm restoration professionals are prepared for any size disaster.  We have seen minor problems become much worse issues for homeowners due to unknown circumstances with the water in their homes.  By following these precautions after storm damage, your home or business will remain dry and mold-free.

Storm and Emergency Preparedness Presentation

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently hosted a Lunch and Learn on Business Emergency Preparedness at the Chester County Public Safety Training Campus.  We were happy to partner with the Chester County Department of Emergency Services and the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce on this important presentation.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in fire, water and mold disasters and our DH Storm Team has even handled large storm events such as Hurricane Florence in the Carolinas.  We brought our knowledge and expertise on emergency preparation to this business discussion and explained our Emergency Ready Profile to those who attended.  The Emergency Ready Profile is a free app where we provide a digital file for local businesses to utilize in the event of an emergency.

Much of the presentation focused on storm emergency preparedness and how businesses can prepare for storms such as those we face during hurricane season.  We also offered helpful information on how to prevent unexpected disasters such as fires.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was thrilled to be able to help prepare some of our local businesses for storms and other emergencies that are similar to what we help restore every day.  If you experience a storm disaster, call us at 610-268-8620.

Fire Prevention Week

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week is a reminder to protect yourself and your property from a fire disaster.

Fire prevention week is October 6^th-12th. SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has helped to restore many homes and businesses in our local area after a fire.  These situations can be very devastating, so it is critical to protect yourself and your property from such a disaster.

The most effective way to prevent a fire is to identify and remove fire hazards.  Hazards to be aware of include a collection of dust, electrical equipment, and flammable liquids and vapors. 

Be sure to keep your property clean.  Check that your electrical equipment is working properly and that there are no power issues that can lead to a fire.  In addition, cooking is a leading cause of fires.  When cooking, it is important not to leave an oven or stove unattended.

You should have a fire extinguisher in your home and one on every floor if you own a business.  Test the batteries in your smoke detectors regularly and replace them every ten years.  You should also have a first aid kit and an evacuation plan in case of emergencies.

These steps can decrease your chance of a fire drastically as well as help in the event of such a disaster.  If you experience smoke, soot or fire damage, our fire restoration professionals can help reverse the destruction.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is prepared to respond to any size fire disaster at a moment’s notice.

Hurricane Safety

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

This hotel was destroyed after Hurricane Florence. Our team helped to recover the damages.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always prepared to help when a storm causes destruction in our local areas.  Hurricane Season is still in effect until the end of November, so it’s important to be prepared for some of the damages that can come with it.  Below are some important tips from the U.S. Small Business Administration on how to prepare if a hurricane strikes.

•  Turn off all non-critical electrical devices and disconnect the main electrical feeds.
• Inspect and repair drains, gutters and flashing.
• Secure or relocate all outside equipment, signs, etc.
• Install windstorm shutters over windows and doors.
• Fill fuel tanks of generators and vehicles.
• Shut off the natural gas supply.
• Watch for roof leaks, pipe breaks, and fire or structural damage.  Remain where you are safe from wind or flooding.
• Listen to radio or television updates on the storm.
• After the storm, do not enter any area until it is declared safe.
• Watch for safety hazards including flooded roads, live wires, leaking gas, and damage to the structure or piping.
• To prevent further damage, cover any broken windows or torn roof coverings.  Clean roof drains and remove debris from the roof.

Although these types of storms are not always active in our local area, it is important to know what actions to take in case of an emergency.  Our storm restoration professionals have responded to many storms along the East coast in order to aid in disaster recovery including Hurricane Florence in the Carolinas last year.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is always prepared for our local disasters.

Fire Safety Tips

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Fires are nothing to take lightly, and our restoration professionals know that better than most.  We see all sizes of fire disasters in our local area that range from smoke issues to complete property reconstruction.  Most of us don’t think about these disasters when it comes to our own homes, but it’s important to be prepared in the event of such an emergency.

Below, The American Red Cross outlines some fire safety tips that are critical to follow before, during and after a fire.

Before

• Install smoke alarms on every floor including bedrooms.
• Test these smoke alarms once a month and change batteries when needed.
• Create and practice a fire emergency plan with your family.

During

• Get out of the building and call for help. Do not go back inside.
• Do not open doors that are warm.
• Do not use an escape route where smoke is largely present.  If exiting through smoke is your only option, stay low and under the smoke.
• If you can’t escape, keep the doors closed and place a wet towel under the door and call 9-1-1.  Open a window to signal for help.

After

• Call 9-1-1.  If you have been burned, be sure to cool and cover burns to lower the risk of injury.
• If you are seriously injured, you should visit a hospital immediately.
• Let others know that you are safe.
• Do not enter the home until local authorities say it is safe to do so.

 Following these fire safety tips will ensure you and your family’s safety in the event of a fire.  If you experience a fire, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help!  We are highly trained in fire restoration and are prepared for any size disaster.  Contact us today to learn more!

Fifty Years of SERVPRO!

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has just celebrated 50 years of service in the restoration and cleaning industry!  This is no small task, and we were happy to be a part of the celebration during the 50^th Annual SERVPRO Convention in Sacramento, California.  The annual Convention included educational workshops, events and numerous awards given to franchises and owners.  We were honored to take part in this event and to have the opportunity to celebrate SERVPRO’s 50 years of successful service.  We are proud to be a part of the #1 restoration and cleaning company!

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been proudly serving communities in our own local area.  Our cleaning and restoration professionals are dedicated to making any size disaster “Like it never even happened.”  If you experience a fire, water or mold disaster, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford will be there to help at a moment’s notice.  Call us today at 610-268-8620.

Are You Prepared for Storm Damage?

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane Season has begun, and it's important to be prepared for the damage it can bring.  Hurricane Season runs from June 1^st through November 30^th.  These high impact storms can sustain winds from 74 to 157 mph or higher and cause massive destruction.  The threat of storm damage to your home or business is higher than ever during this time of year, and we want you to be prepared if disaster strikes.

Creating an Emergency First Aid Kit is always a smart move!  The American Red Cross emphasizes what a First Aid Kit should include in preparation for a hurricane or other disaster.  This Safety Guide provided by FEMA is also full of helpful tips on what you can do if you are in the area of a hurricane.

If you experience storm damage, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is prepared to help.  Our DH Storm Team has the proper resources to respond to any size storm disaster.  Click Here to learn more or call us at 610-268-8620.

Ready For Whatever Happens

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

It’s Hurricane Season, and our Disaster Recovery Team is always prepared for the worst.  We specialize in storm and flood damage restoration and travel along the East Coast to help those in need.  Our DH Storm Team has already visited local and national communities due to the damage that this time of year brings.  We are prepared to answer the call for help when disaster strikes next.

Since we are locally owned and operated, we can respond faster, which is extremely important for lessening the damage.  When storms hit our local area, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster.  We also have access to equipment and personnel from a network of over 1700 franchises across the country as well as other elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the nation.

Click Here to learn more about our storm services!

Attending Our Local Chamber Day!

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is actively involved in our local Chambers of Commerce. We participate and sponsor many events in order to help further the success of our local businesses and community.

Last month, our Marketing Manager, Cliff Masscotte and our Sales and Marketing Rep, Brian Arencibia attended the 2019 Chamber Day at the State Capitol in Harrisburg, PA. Representing the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce, they were among more than 90 state and chamber representatives in our local Pennsylvania area to take part.

Those who attended had participated in panel discussions on topics including workforce development, the state budget and community improvement. We were happy to be a part of this event and to learn what lies ahead for the growth of our community.

Pipe Burst in Landenberg

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Recently, our crew visited a local property in Landenberg after the pipe burst in the home overnight.  The basement was severely damaged from floor to ceiling, leaving a devastating scene.  Our crew came to the rescue that same day to mitigate the damages before the destruction could get worse.

In just a matter of hours, we had removed all signs of water from the property and successfully laid down drying equipment in order to prep the affected areas for reconstruction.  We are always prepared and happy to help our local neighbors when these types of disasters strike to make each one “Like it never even happened.”

If you experience water damage in your own home, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at 610-268-8620.  Our cleaning and restoration professionals can handle any size disaster for you!

We Love Our Commercial Clients!

5/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been keeping busy with restoring properties from any size disaster.  Our commercial clients have been a large part of that, and we can’t thank them enough for using our services in their time of need.  We understand how important your business is to you, so our restoration professionals take great care in each job we perform, no matter how big or small.

Just this month, we have received and completed work for a variety of businesses and organizations in Chester County.  This includes educational institutions, medical offices and our local police departments to name a few.

Our crew has been working hard to help each of these commercial clients with everything from reversing the damages of vandalism to restoring their floors from the wear and tear that a business tends to cause.  We take pride in making each one of these jobs “Like it never even happened.”

To learn more about how we can help your commercial business, call SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at 610-268-8620.

Shredding and Recycling Event in Chester County

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was happy to help sponsor and volunteer our time for the Annual Document Shredding and EWaste event for Chester County.  This was held at the Coatesville Area School District Complex for the first time and was a huge success.

We worked alongside our local area Boy Scouts and multiple municipalities in Chester County to make this event a memorable one for our community.  Countless pounds of paper were shredded on location while hundreds of electronics were left to be recycled, keeping us busy throughout the entire event.  We were happy to see so much of our local community participate.

Our franchise was proud to sponsor this event along with DNB First and Wiggins Shredding, and we look forward to doing the same next year.

Refrigerator Water Leak in Lincoln University

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford helps restore properties from water losses and other unexpected disasters daily, and we are happy to help.  One example of the hard work that we do was when we stepped up after receiving a call from a customer in Lincoln University after his fridge had failed.  The broken appliance caused an extensive amount of water to leak onto the main floor and into the basement.  The customer was devastated after discovering the destruction, but relieved when our water restoration professionals immediately visited the property to inspect, repair and restore the damages to the home.

Sadly, situations like this are not uncommon for SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, but like this restoration project, we always do our best to clean and restore your property to preloss conditions. 

About SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.  From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, our staff is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to restore your property.  Call us today at (610) 268-8620.

Air Duct Cleaning

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, our restoration professionals take care of more than large scale disasters.  Our team also offers cleaning services such as duct cleaning for our local residential and commercial properties.  It is important to clean your air ducts in order to maintain a healthy and safe environment for your home or business.  When ducts get clogged with dirt, dust and debris, your property is at risk of poor indoor air quality that can lead to respiratory problems.

Our cleaning professionals have the proper equipment and expertise to remove all signs of dirt and debris in your ducts as well as eliminate any offensive odors created.  To learn more about our duct cleaning services for your home or business, click here. SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to help restore your property to a clean and healthy environment.

Water Loss Disaster at Widener University

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Earlier this year, Widener University suffered an extensive water disaster at their college campus.  Four floors were affected by the water leak, which included the institution's newest residence hall, Harris Hall.  This building houses approximately 200 students at the University and so, it was imperative that work begin right away on restoring the damages.

Our franchise came to the rescue and for an entire month, we worked hard to get the campus back on track.  The damage was so extensive that we brought in our Disaster Recovery trailers to transport more of our restoration equipment to the scene.  Our team put in a lot of hours, working day and night for weeks in order to restore the University to its former glory. 

We are always happy to help out our local community.  At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we are proud to have the resources, equipment and dedicated team to make a water disaster like this one "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO is Proud to Partner With Our First Responders

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

We are proud to support our local first responders in our community and are always prepared to lend a helping hand when they need us.  We work with many of our local fire and police departments to not only help save homes and businesses from any size disaster, but also to help them with their own cleaning and restoration needs.

During the week of May 19-25, we will recognize our first responders for National EMS Week.  This week is in honor of our national emergency medical personnel including paramedics, emergency dispatchers, fire and police departments and other first responders in our local and nationwide communities.  During this week, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford will visit many of our local fire and police departments to personally thank some of these brave men and women for their service to our community.  We enjoy bringing lunch to each station and getting to know these local heroes who we work side by side with on many occasions.  Our team is proud to work and serve in our community with all of our first responders, and we will continue to make this a tradition every year.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a proud supporter of our first responders throughout the country who put their lives on the line every day.  To show our gratitude, we held the first ever SERVPRO First Responder Bowl to honor our national heroes. 

The First Responder Bowl is more than just a college football game, and SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford was happy to be a part of it.  Our franchise got in on the action and sent one of our local first responders to the big game for free, Officer Mario Raimato of the Southern Chester County Regional Police Department.  Officer Raimato is a driving force in the police department as well as in our local schools and community.  He is involved with many organizations including the Boy Scouts of America and the Garage Youth Center to name a few.  We provided airfare, a two-night hotel stay, and two free tickets to the game to Officer Raimato and his wife as a thank you for serving our local community.  We are always looking for ways to better serve our community and therefore were thrilled to have the opportunity to honor one of our local first responders in this way.

In addition, we sent our very own Marketing Manager, Cliff Masscotte and our Sales Representative, Brian Arencibia to attend the game and help unfurl the American flag on the field with many others who are proud to work at SERVPRO.  They were honored to be chosen to do so and to take part in this event for our first responders.  The game wasn’t quite what we expected, but it was exciting nonetheless.  Due to severe weather conditions, the unfurling of the American flag and the flyover of C-1370 military cargo planes were cancelled as well as the game itself in the first quarter.  The unanimous decision was made by emergency personnel, both teams, ESPN and Cotton Bowl Stadium Staff for the safety of the fans and players.  We were disappointed that this big event did not turn out like we had hoped.  However, the game was to honor our first responders, and we achieved that in a new and unique way.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is excited to do the same at next year’s big game.  Rain or shine, we will continue to thank our first responders both locally and nationally in any way we can.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl was held in Dallas, Texas on December 26th in the famous Cotton Bowl Stadium and aired live on ESPN. 

Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher for Your Business

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we see fire and water disasters everyday in situations where sometimes, a fire extinguisher can greatly decrease the intensity of an event.  Choosing the right fire extinguisher can greatly help your business in the long run. 

Class A: This is the most common extinguisher and is used to put out fires in cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and plastics.

Class B: These are used when flammable liquids are involved, such as grease, gasoline and oil.

Class C: This is used when fires involve appliances or equipment that is electrically energized or plugged in.

Class D: These are used for flammable metals and are usually found in factories working with those metals.

Class K: Usually found in commercial kitchens, they are used when vegetable oils, animal oils or fats in cooking are involved.

Choosing the right fire extinguisher is an integral component of your business when it involves preparation for unexpected disasters such as a fire event.  If your business suffers a fire loss, contact the fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford.  We specialize in restoring any size disaster with 24/7 emergency services so you can be confident that your business will remain standing when the smoke clears.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

Protecting your Business from Flooding

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we understand that your business is important to you.  Our restoration professionals work hard to help restore homes and businesses in our local community daily.  We are equipped with the expertise and technology to restore your property from any size disaster.  However, there are steps you can take on your own to prevent damages to your business.

• Start with a thorough risk analysis. Plan for emergencies and obtain insurance coverage that will cover your business in the event of a flood. Consider any damages to property as well.
• Pay attention to weather alerts in your area.
• Ensure that all gutters are inspected and clear of dirt and debris regularly.
• Install barriers to prevent water from getting inside.
• Use flood-resistant materials in any new construction to your business.
• Relocate your files to a safe location, and back them up.

These measures will protect your business in the event of flooding and drastically minimize the damages to your commercial property.  If you experience any flooding or storm damage at your business, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.  We can help make your commercial disaster “Like it never even happened”.

Protecting Your Business From Cold Weather Conditions

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

With winter here, now is the time to start thinking about how you can protect your business from cold weather conditions.  Protecting your customers, clients and employees is one critical component you need to consider. Snow and ice create dangerous hazards for businesses, since many people often slip and fall on untreated, icy surfaces.  To prevent injuries, you can follow these key steps by Travelers Insurance to eliminate this winter hazard.

• Create and implement a snow and ice removal plan.  This includes determining who is responsible for carrying out the plan. Responsibilities include hiring contractors or choosing your own personnel, ensuring that snow is removed and salt is placed on walkways as well as proper claim handling procedures.

• Assign someone the task of monitoring weather conditions, walkways and the effectiveness of the snow and ice removal.

• Record removal activities in a log.  The log should include names and dates along with the amount of snow and ice, temperature and the removal process.

•  Investigate any injuries immediately

Using your Plan

Be aware of uneven surfaces and areas with high traffic.  Clean up after ice melt.  When piling snow, try not to block visibility around corners.  In addition, use warning signs and lights for more protection.  Be aware of refreezing, and check that your drains do not spread water onto walkways. 

Lastly, check with your municipality with your location’s specific regulations on treating weather conditions.

These steps will keep anyone who visits your business safe from harm.  If you experience a more drastic winter storm event such as frozen pipes, call SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.  We can handle winter disasters for you.

What Causes Water Damage?

12/17/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we receive calls daily from local homeowners and businesses who experience water damage.  Water can leak into your property in a variety of ways.  Whether the damage comes from a broken pipe or a storm in your area, both can have catastrophic consequences.  Here, we list some of the common causes of water damage that can help you to protect your property from a water disaster.

A Leaky Basement

This is one of the most common causes of water damage.  Our water restoration professionals are able to find the leak in order to repair the damage.

Leaky Plumbing

You can often fix this problem yourself by fixing any damaged pipes.  If there are multiple leaks, a restoration professional should handle the plumbing.

The Plant Root System

When plants and shrubs are overgrown and too close to a structure, water can seep into the foundation.  Trim your plants and remove any water that collects near the foundation of your property.

Damaged Drywall

Drywall is usually damaged when a leaky roof or toilet is involved and collapses the ceiling.  Our restoration professionals can repair drywall and help protect against moisture.

If you experience any water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.  We can recover any size water disaster. 

Carpet Cleaning for Your Business

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford offers more to our local businesses than restoration during large events from fire or water damage.  Our cleaning and restoration professionals are happy to help with your everyday business needs such as carpet cleaning.  We have offered this service to many homes and businesses in our local area, and our customers are happy to see their carpets looking brand new. 

Before your carpets need our services, there are actions you can take to keep them looking clean on your own.  To maintain the look and cleanliness of your carpets, vacuuming should be done regularly.  Other steps you can take to keep your carpets looking new include stain removal, pilating the carpet to prevent matting, moving furniture around to change traffic patterns, and using mats to limit the amount of soil on the carpet.

If your carpets require more attention to meet your business needs, contact us at (610) 268-8620. 

To learn more about our carpet cleaning services, click here.

Signs of Winter Storm Damage

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

With winter approaching, there’s often more to worry about than shoveling snow.  Winter storms and temperatures can cause extensive damage to your home, but SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is ready to help if you experience a winter disaster from common issues including the following.

Frozen Pipes

Brisk temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and break, which can lead to flooding in your home.

Ice Dams

When snow melts unevenly and freezes at the edge of your roof, an ice dam is created which prevents melted snow from draining off of the roof.  The water can then leak under the shingles and into the home and cause significant water damage.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can damage your roof and even cause the roof to collapse if enough weight has accumulated.  Water can get into cracks and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks.

Winter can be an extremely dangerous time for your home. Be sure to check the pipes and roof of your property for signs of potential water damage and warning signs.  If you experience a storm disaster, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can restore your home “Like it never even happened”. Call us at (610) 268-8620.

What You Should and Shouldn't Do with Water Damage

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

When you experience a water loss, you may feel stressed and confused on what to do to prevent further damage to your home.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is here to help when a water disaster strikes, but there are actions you can take on your own to minimize damages.

Helpful Tips

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe water damage from wood furniture.
• Remove and prop wet furniture and pillow cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn your air conditioner on for more efficient drying if your loss occurs in the summer.
• Remove rugs from wet carpeting.
• Place valuables in a safe, dry place.

Actions to Avoid

• Do not leave wet fabrics in place.  Instead, dry them immediately.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.
• Never use a standard vacuum to remove the water.
• Avoid using televisions or other electronics while standing on wet carpets or floors.
• If the ceiling is wet, do not turn on ceiling fans or lights.  Avoid rooms where ceilings are sagging from water.

A water disaster can strike when we least expect it, but you can help prevent extensive damages to your home by following these actions.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help with the rest.  Our water restoration professionals are fully equipped and prepared to handle your water loss.  Call us at (610) 268-8620.

What You Should Do if your Washing Machine Floods

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

Washing machines use up to thirty gallons of water to clean our clothes on a regular basis.  If this convenient device were to flood, however, there would be extensive water damage to your home.  Disaster can strike when we least expect it, so it’s best to be prepared if you experience this problem. 

How to Fix the Problem

Cut off the electrical power supply to the washer at the fuse box.  Don’t stop the washer or immediately pull the electrical plug since doing so can lead to more flooding and possible electric shock. 

Remove the clothes from the washer and drain them in the sink to remove some of the water from the washer.

Check to see if the washer hoses are leaking water. Tighten the hot and cold water supply hoses, and ensure that the drain hose is properly in place.

Test the washer without laundry or detergent to ensure the problem is solved. 

To prevent your washer from flooding, do not put an excessive amount of laundry in the washer during a cycle, and make sure the machine was not recalled.

A water disaster can stem from a small problem, such as a washer leak.  If you experience any water damage in your home, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can handle the loss for you and restore your property “Like it never even happened”.

What are Air Scrubbers?

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

An air scrubber is a portable filtration system that removes particles, gasses, or chemicals from the air in any given area. This equipment draws in air from the surrounding area and passes it through a series of filters to remove dangerous particles in the air.

Air scrubbers are needed when these dangerous particles are present or will be created during the restoration process, such as mold, dust, and asbestos.  When these particles aren’t cleaned up on a carpet or furniture, they can travel into the heating system and spread into the building.  The spread of these contaminants can negatively impact the air quality inside your home.  By utilizing air scrubbers in the restoration process, our restoration professionals create a cleaner and healthier environment for you and your home.

If you suspect any dangerous particles in your home, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford.  We have the proper equipment and expertise to handle any size disaster.

Mold Remediation for a Local Business

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we are always ready to help our community with their restoration needs.  We recently got a call from a local business in Kennett Square to fix their mold problem.  The infestation had grown along the wall of the facility and was threatening the business’s ability to stay open. 

We do not take mold issues like this for granted, but instead visited the property immediately to assess the extent of the mold damage.  Our mold remediation professionals then began work right away on removing the mold and cleaning up the structure.  The business was back on its feet in a matter of days, and we were pleased that the business owner was satisfied with our restoration services. To learn more about our mold remediation services, click here.

Commercial Cleaning for Your Business

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know that we also offer commercial cleaning services for businesses?  While SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can handle any size fire, water or mold disaster, we also offer the everyday services your business needs in order to maintain a clean and safe environment.

We understand how important your business is to you and how even a dirty floor can impact how your company is perceived.  Our cleaning and restoration professionals can help restore your property loss and damages so that your business can continue to prosper.  Our commercial cleaning services include the following:

• Air ducts and HVAC units
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is happy to help your business with your cleaning and restoration needs.  Call us at (610) 268-8620 for more information.

Saving the Day From Black Mold

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

One of our customers in West Grove recently called SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford after she discovered that black mold had grown in her walls.  She was in the process of knocking down her drywall when she came across the infestation and noticed that the drywall was wet as well.  Concerned about the mold damage, she was relieved when our mold remediation professionals visited the property immediately to inspect, repair and restore the walls in her home. 

In addition, we used our advanced containment procedures and air scrubbers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and prevent the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process. The customer was extremely satisfied with our mold restoration expertise in eliminating the mold from her home.

To learn more about our mold remediation services, click here!

Smoke Dangers in Your Home

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Often, it’s the smoke that can do more harm than the flames when a fire occurs in a home.  If not properly taken care of, smoke can be left to damage the contents and surfaces of your property. 

Effects of Smoke

Smoke can cause discoloration as well as leave a lingering odor throughout the space.  If left untreated, the smoke can cause further damage to the home’s contents.  Electronics, furniture, clothing and even walls and ceilings can all be damaged.  Although the fire is gone, this substance creates a massive problem for you and your home.

Reducing Damages

To reduce the damages to your home after a fire, open a window to release the smoke from the property.  Turn off any ceiling fans, air conditioners or heating units to prevent the smoke from spreading throughout the home.  Do not attempt to clean the smoke off of surfaces as doing so can lead to more damage if improperly handled.

Smoke can lead to a large problem in your home, but SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can take care of the damage for you.  Our fire restoration professionals are equipped with the proper equipment and techniques to restore your home to preloss conditions. 

How to Stay Safe During a Winter Storm

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

The winter months are upon us.  Winter storms are common this upcoming time of year and often threaten the safety of our families and homes.  The American Red Cross offers helpful tips to remain safe during a snowstorm. 

• Stay indoors and wear warm clothes.
• Listen to your local radio or television station to receive updates on the storm.
• Bring your pets inside before the storm.
• Conserve fuel by lowering the thermostat in your home.
• It is also helpful to close off unused rooms, place towels in cracks under doors, and cover the windows at night.

If you must leave your home during a winter storm,

• Wear layered clothing.
• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from the brisk air.
• Be aware of signs of hypothermia or frostbite.
• Look out for icy sidewalks.
• Use public transportation if possible.

Following these preventative actions will ensure you and your family’s safety during a snowstorm this season.

When a winter storm hits, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is “Faster to any size disaster”.  Our storm restoration specialists can handle any size storm, and we offer 24/7 emergency services.  

Are You Ready if a Disaster Strikes?

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Disasters come in all shapes and sizes and threaten the stability of our homes and businesses.  The local restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford are here to help if that day comes and can handle any damages that come your way.  However, there are steps you can take on your own to be better prepared for an emergency and ensure that you and your family are safe before help arrives. 

• Sign up for local weather and emergency alerts.
• Create and test communications in the event of an emergency.
• Create an emergency supply kit.
• Learn about local hazards and practice emergency situations.
• Join a preparedness class or group.
• Store important documents in a safe place.
• Make a plan with neighbors.
• Document property and obtain the proper insurance coverage for your home.
• Repair your home and property to minimize loss.

Disaster can strike when we least expect it.  Call SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620 if you experience any fire, water or mold emergency in your home. 

Deep Frying Turkey Precautions

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

With Thanksgiving around the corner, it is important to remember fire safety when it comes to preparing your turkey for your family.  At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we want everyone to have a happy and safe holiday.  With the help of the U.S. Fire Administration, we’ve put together helpful tips on how to prevent a fire loss when deep frying your turkey. 

• Be aware of your surroundings and place the turkey fryer on a sturdy surface in order to prevent it from easily tipping over.
• Do not overfill the pot with cooking oil, since doing so will cause the oil to spill out or splatter when the turkey is placed in the pot. This can lead to a fire if the cooking oil reaches a hot burner.
• Control the temperature to prevent the deep fryer from overheating the oil.
• Be cautious when handling the pot as it can get extremely hot.

Deep frying a turkey can be dangerous, but your home will remain safe from harm if you are cautious about the problems that can arise.  If your cooking goes awry, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford for any fire or smoke damages to your property.  We can help make your disaster “Like it never even happened."

Where did SERVPRO get its green color?

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

The restoration crews of SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford are always close by, helping to recover disasters in your area from fire, water and mold loss.  It’s hard to miss our green service vehicles as they drive through your local community.  But where did the green color come from?

In the early 1970s, the founders of SERVPRO® used a color chip paint sample chart to identify the most eye-catching color.  It was a highly technical process.  The founders showed the chart to as many people as they could and asked, “Which color on this chart would be impossible to miss?”  By a wide margin, the color most identified was 1970 rally green, a color used on Porsche 911 automobiles.

 Now used on entire fleets of vehicles in every SERVPRO franchise across the nation from production vans to disaster recovery storm trailers, our vehicles are prepared for any size disaster. 

Document Restoration

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

After a fire or water loss, important documents are often damaged and in danger of being non-restorable. As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford knows timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged items before it’s too late. Water or smoke damaged paper can rapidly deteriorate, but with proper handling, our restoration professionals can help you recover your important files utilizing a variety of methods.

Vacuum Freeze Drying

This is the most effective way to restore documents after a water loss. Our Document Restoration Team uses sublimation, which skips the liquid stage to turn a solid right into a vapor to avoid causing more damage.

Digitizing

Keeping your important documents in a digital file is a good idea to eliminate the stress and work of replacing and losing files in an emergency.

Gamma Irradiation

This method is used to clean and disinfect documents that are infected by bacteria. This is frequently used in events where sewage or flood water are involved.

Certified Destruction

Often, documents must be completely destroyed to protect a business’s liabilities, image or other information. We guarantee that your sensitive files will be disposed of properly.

To learn more about our Document Restoration services, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford. We offer 24-hour emergency services in our local community.

What is an Emergency READY Profile?

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

No one wants to think about disaster striking their business, but you should always have a plan just in case.  The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile (ERP) is a free service offered to local area businesses that helps prepare them to be “Ready for whatever happens”.  In the event of an emergency, the ERP can minimize the interruption to your business. 

This document contains critical information about your business, including employee and emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations, insurance contacts, property overview and building access information.  By already having this information in a secure file that can be accessed at a moment’s notice, the right actions will be taken immediately to ensure the safety of your business. 

Knowing who to call in advance is the key to timely mitigation, and timely mitigation reduces the effects of fire and water damage.  By establishing an Emergency READY Profile, your business will be well prepared for any size disaster.

To create an Emergency READY Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.

Fireplace Maintenance Tips

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

One of our customers in Gap, Pennsylvania called the fire restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford after the logs in his gas fireplace caused smoke and soot to be released into the home.  Our highly trained specialists assessed the issue, discovering that the carpet, blinds, furniture and duct system had been damaged, and that the smoke had left behind an odor.

Fireplace Safety Tips

While our fire restoration experts were able to successfully clean and restore the home and its contents as well as eliminate the odor, there are some actions you can take to avoid this inconvenience from happening in your home. 

• Clean your gas logs and fireplace regularly.
• Be sure to open the flue damper so that the flue does not get clogged. This will ensure that smoke and soot do not build up around or inside the fireplace.
• Ensure that your gas logs are safely positioned.

To learn more about how to prevent fireplace disasters in your home, contact the fire restoration professionals of SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.  We’ll restore your home to preloss conditions “Like it never even happened.”

When Lightning Strikes

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

A resident of Christiana was in disbelief when this summer, their house was struck by lightning, setting the home on fire and collapsing the roof into the second floor.  While firefighters were able to put out the flames and help save the contents inside, the destruction to the home was extreme.  Luckily, the fire restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford were able to restore the home to its original structure inside and out. 

Lightning Strike Safety

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we see unique disasters like this catastrophe every day so it’s a good idea to know what to do if lightning strikes your home. 

• If you are home at the time of a lightning strike, evacuate the property immediately and call 911. The fire department will inspect your property for any signs of damage. 
• Wait until the fire department informs you that it is safe to enter your home before doing so.
• Contact your insurance company. Keep detailed records of any damaged expensive purchases such as electronic devices as well as on what you spend repairing any items in your home, so you can be reimbursed.
• Schedule an electrician to inspect and repair any damages to your wiring.

Should you experience fire damage caused by a lightning strike or other source, the fire restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help.  Our crews are equipped with the proper expertise and resources to help make any size disaster “Like it never even happened.”

Where Does Mold Hide?

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

Mold can lurk behind any corner of your home, but the mold remediation specialists at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford know just where to look to stop the spread of mold before it starts.

In Pantries and Refrigerators 

Food scraps can grow old and begin to rot and grow mold that can spread across the surface inside of a pantry, refrigerator, or any dark, moist space.  Make sure to maintain food fresh and sealed to prevent mold contamination in these areas.

Laundry Rooms

Damp clothes, a humid atmosphere, and often leaks or condensation around washers and dryers can result in mold.

In the Bathroom 

Bathrooms have significant amounts of water, often humid air, and are dark for most hours of the day. Mold can form in cabinets or on towels and clothes. Shower curtains, plain wooden walls, tiles, and floors can hide bacteria.

Behind Walls and Ceilings 

Mold growth is usually caused when a pipe leaks or bursts and dampens the wood surrounding it. Mold then grows in places where it’s out of view and inside the walls. Mold will spread quickly damaging and weakening your home. If you have had a recent water damage in your home, make sure to test the walls for possible mold.

If you suspect mold in your home, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford.  Our mold remediation experts are equipped with the expertise and resources to recover your mold disaster quickly.  Call us at (610) 268-8620.

Preventing Mold in the Winter

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

Now that the temperature is dropping, you may start to wonder what you can do to keep your home healthy and prepared for the colder months.  While mold does not occur more frequently in the winter compared to other times of the year in a controlled indoor setting, there are problems to look out for in the colder months that can affect the moisture in your home and cause mold growth.  Common winter problems including frozen pipes and improper insulation can lead to more than simply a cold home. 

Mold can be a scary concept to any homeowner, but here are some steps you can take to prevent mold from growing due to the brisk temperatures.  Ensure that your gutters are clear to help prevent ice from building up and that your dehumidifiers are running in lower levels of your home.  Check that your attic and any pipes in your crawl spaces are insulated to help prevent pipe bursts or condensation.  Following these procedures will keep your home properly insulated and free of mold caused by uncontrolled moisture levels. 

If you have any questions about mold, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.  Our mold remediation experts can handle any size mold disaster.

How To Prevent and Treat Frozen Pipes

10/24/2018 (Permalink)

With the temperatures dropping, there are some things to look out for to keep your home running efficiently.  A large concern during the winter months is the possibility of frozen pipes. When water freezes in your pipes, it expands and can cause pipes to break, which can leave your home with significant water damage. While this is an extremely common and inconvenient problem, there are steps you can take to prevent and treat frozen pipes, according to The American Red Cross.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces as well as the pipes themselves.  Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate through the pipes, and let cold water drip from the faucets of the pipes that are exposed. Keep the thermostat always set at the same temperature so pipes are less likely to freeze. 

Treating Frozen Pipes

Keep the faucet on so that water can begin to flow out as the pipe unfreezes.  Apply heat to the pipe using an electric heating pad or hair dryer until full water pressure is restored. 

If you have any questions about our services with damages from broken water pipes, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford today at (610) 268-8620.  Our water restoration experts are dedicated to assisting homeowners and businesses with their water damage needs.

Mold Remediation at a Local Medical Facility

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

After the staff at a medical facility in Kennett Square noticed mold in their building, they immediately called the restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford to fix the problem.  In order to sustain their business and be available to customers on a daily basis, the mold had to be removed quickly and safely.  Fortunately, our highly trained mold remediation technicians at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford were ready to help.

After extensively inspecting the property for mold and assessing the problem, we contained the contaminated area in order to prevent the mold growth from spreading.  We then used our air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to capture the mold spores out of the air.  Once the mold was captured, antifungal and antimicrobial treatments were used to destroy any residual mold left behind and to help prevent others from resurfacing.  We removed the odors left behind by the growth and restored the walls of the facility to their original form.

Preparing for Recovery Efforts

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

This hotel in the Carolinas was destroyed by Hurricane Florence.

This hurricane season is a busy one for SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford.  Our DH Storm Team is still hard at work repairing the storm damage in the Carolinas and will be for months to come from the impact of Hurricane Florence.  Meanwhile, we are on our way to help recover from Hurricane Michael, the strongest hurricane to hit the coast since 1898.  With winds making impact at 155 mph and heavy flooding, many homes and buildings have been destroyed.  This storm has left many Florida residents devastated without their homes and belongings, and recovery efforts will be extensive.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, along with many of our other franchises, have been preparing for the impact of this storm’s destruction and are ready to help restore homes now that the skies are clear.  Our restoration experts can handle any size disaster and are extensively trained in water restoration and other storm damage services.  We understand that losing your home or property can be devastating, and we will be there to make the storm “Like it never even happened”.

Flooded Condo in Kennett Square

10/22/2018 (Permalink)

Recently, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford received a call after a customer’s condo began to flood.  The condo above her had flooded drastically, and the water had nowhere else to go.  The customer’s main floor and basement were now flooded with standing water, leaving the tile floors and carpets wet.  The ceiling was coming down from the water damage as well.

We extracted the water, and then placed drying equipment for three days to ensure proper structure drying.  The importance of correctly drying the structure is imperative to us, as we do not want to take a chance of having microbial growth occur once we leave.

If you experience any water damage in your home, contact our restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620.

How To Stop Black Mold in Your Home

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

When mold strikes, the last thing you want to do is spread it throughout your home.  Even though mold loves moisture and typically festers in wet, warm areas, spores from spreading mold can easily travel from one room to another via air movement.  There are certain places and things in your home that should be frequently checked and thoroughly cleaned to keep mold at bay. These include the following:

• Moldings around windows and doors
• Musty basements
• Humidifiers
• Bathroom tiles
• Surfaces surrounding air conditioners
• Refrigerator door seals
• Shower stalls and curtains

Taking care of moisture issues is one of the best ways to prevent mold from starting and growing.  If you’re past the prevention stage, it is vital that you stop spreading mold at the first sign of a problem with professional mold remediation.

Leave Black Mold to the Professionals

While doing it on our own may be the way to go with some home projects, getting rid of a mold infestation isn’t one of them.  Trying to take care of such a tricky substance by yourself often does more harm than good since the spores that move through the air are virtually undetectable by the naked eye.  The mold remediation experts at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford are thoroughly trained to prevent the spreading of black mold.  They have both the tools and the skills to get your home back to normal from start to finish.  Some of these steps include the following:

• Performing initial inspections
• Filtering the air in your home
• Containing the mold
• Removing damaged and diseased materials
• Repairing and restoring your home to its original condition

Because mold spores move quickly through the air and multiply on almost any surface they land on, it’s important that you stop the spread of mold in your home quickly and meticulously. Don’t let the thought of mold stop you in your tracks.  With mold remediation, you can have your home and peace of mind back in no time. 

Should you experience mold in your home, contact SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford and we will handle the problem for you. 

Preparing for a Power Outage

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Power outages are very common when it comes to storms.  The American Red Cross encourages every household and vehicle to have an emergency kit during a power outage, but only 51.5% of US homes reportedly have one ready.

Power outage kits should include things like water, canned food, a can opener, flashlights, and batteries, including enough food and water for each person in your household for five days.  To build a power outage kit, add the following:

• Plenty of bottled water
• Non-perishable food
• Battery-operated radio and clock
• Flashlight for each member of your household with extra batteries
• Non-electric can opener
• List of emergency phone numbers including family and friends
• First aid kit

The restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford are highly trained to repair and restore your home from storm damage.  We also offer an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) for local businesses that includes emergency contacts, building access information and other necessary elements in case of an emergency. 

Should a disaster or storm affect your home, contact us at (610) 268-8620.  We offer 24-hour emergency service and are equipped for any size disaster.

Faster To Any Size Water Disaster

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small.  When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial.  A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable.  You need an expert to guide you through both the crisis and the water restoration process.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. 

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency.  These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event.  Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.  From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.  Call us at (610) 268-8620.

SERVPRO Helping to Restore the Carolinas

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane season is a busy time for SERVPRO.  Along with many other of the company’s franchises, volunteers and crew from SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford have been working hard to restore what Hurricane Florence left in its wake in the Carolinas this September.  Over 732,000 people were left without power (According to The New York Times) and tens of thousands of homes were damaged.  To make matters worse, the extensive amount of rainfall and flooding caused even more destruction.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford raced to help residents of the area and are still actively working on restoring many homes from the aftermath of the storm.  Due to the massive amount of destruction, we activated DH Storm Team.  In all, our storm coordinator activated approx. 100 franchises in response of the hurricane.  Crews are expected to be helping repair the damage in the Carolinas well into December.  By the end of this year, we hope to begin restoring our customer’s homes and lives.

What is a Puffback?

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Destruction to your home can be caused by conditions we may not expect such as a puffback. A puffback is when smoke and soot are released from a furnace. When a furnace is leaking oil and doesn’t ignite when it should, the oil vapors eventually build up and cause an explosion of soot to blow through the furnace and into the air very quickly. The carbon in the soot then strikes other sources of soot, causing carbon chains which take the look of cobwebs in the corners of your walls, ceilings and doorways.

To prevent puffbacks, furnaces should be cleaned every year. Look for signs of oil leaks such as black soot on the furnace, walls or ceiling or unfamiliar noises that are made at the beginning of the burn cycle along with after the cycle has completed. These signs indicate that the oil is not burning properly. It’s also a good idea to look for debris in the flue vent connector. 

Since incorrectly cleaning puffbacks can cause smearing, streaking, or damage to your walls, the job should always be done by a professional.  Should you experience a puffback in your home, call the cleaning and restoration experts at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford at (610) 268-8620 and we’ll make it "Like it never even happened.”

Storm Preparedness

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Every year parts of the United States, including the east coast, find themselves experiencing the high winds and heavy rain of a hurricane storm surge.   The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1^st through November 30^th.  Being prepared for these storms is the key to your safety and in reducing damage to your home and business.  Here are a few things that you can do to be prepared:

• Before
  • Have a plan.  Having a plan ready for what you need, how to get in contact with relatives and loved ones, and what you will do if evacuations are required.  Planning can help to ensure you are ready regardless of if you leave your home or shelter in place during the storm.  You can also visit FEMAs website for more information about putting together an emergency plan.  (link https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan)
  • Have an emergency kit ready.  Always make sure to have an emergency kit ready with supplies for sheltering in place or for evacuating the area if told to do so. 
  • Listen for weather reports and instructions.  Paying close attention to the weather reports and instructions from local government can help to keep you and your family safe and prepared for the storm. 
  • Know how to turn off gas, electric, and water utilities in your home.  Turning off the utilities can prevent further damage occurring in the event that you are required to evacuate.
  • Property maintenance.  Removing dead or damaged branches, repairing damaged gutters, or loose debris in the yard can prevent damage caused by debris becoming projectiles in the wind.  Cleaning out clogged gutters can also prevent water damage. 
• During
  • Stay updated on the storm.  Listen for alerts and instructions from local officials on the news and radio.  Also be sure to follow the instructions given to better ensure your safety. 
  • Avoid windows and glass doors during the storm.  High winds can create projectiles that can shatter glass and harm occupants in the home. 
  • Stay inside during the eye of the hurricane.  Hurricanes are a large circular storm system that rotate around a central eye.  The eye may seem calm as if the storm has passed but the rest of the storm will shortly follow behind it.
• After
  • Check-in with family and friends.  Check in on loved ones in the affected area and let those that you now outside of the area that you are safe.  If land lines are down social media and texting may be more effective ways to make contact. 
  • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.  Never attempt to re-enter the area until the area has been cleared as safe. 
  • Avoid debris and downed power lines.
  • Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down, and one foot of fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
  • Take inventory of damage to your property.  Photograph the damage in order to assist in filing an insurance claim.
  • Prevent additional damage from occurring.  Tarp or board up damaged roofs and windows.  Your insurance may not cover additional damage that occurs after the storm has passed.

Free Shredding Events

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford hosts several FREE shredding events a year.  Follow us on Facebook to see a list of our upcoming events!

Why is shredding important? 

Shredding is fundamental to protecting your identity.

Discarding bank and credit card statements, medical and utility bills and pay stubbs in the garbage and leaving them on the curb can put you in a vulnerable position. Believe it or not, there are people who will dig through dirty, disgusting, smelly trash to find credit card statements or your social security number. 

In fact, in the decision California vs. Greenwood, the United States Supreme Court stated that the "expectation of privacy in trash left for collection in an area accessible to the public is unreasonable."

In other words, when you throw something away, it is available to anyone who is willing to dig through your trash.

The best way to protect your self is by shredding.

What to shred? The short list is anything with a signature, account number, social security or driver's license number, and medical or legal documents

Not sure if items need to be shredded? This is a list of the top 20 items that should be put in the shredder to protect your identity:  

Obsolete financial records, including loans

Pre-approved credit card applications.

Personal medical records or physician statements

Correspondence and tax preparation worksheets

Receips for purchases

Bank statements

ATM receipts

Credit card statements

Cancelled checks

Mail and old records

Utility bills

Credit card receipts

Insurance forms

Investment transactions

Expired credit cards

Mailing labels from magazines

Pay stubs

Old driver’s licenses or passports

Expired insurance cards

Any document that contains social security, birth dates, your mother’s maiden name, account numbers or online passwords.

Don't Lose Your Business To Fire Damage

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO For Fast, Friendly Fire Remediation Services

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® of Kennett Square/Oxford 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, so call us now at (610) 268-8620 to attain your free estimate.

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 of Kennett Square / Oxford 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 all of your 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.

Smoke Alarm Safety

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke alarms play a vital role in saving lives, and when properly installed, can reduce the risk of fire injury by half. *

The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms be installed in every bedroom, outside all sleeping quarters and on every level of the house. Business owners should consult the local Fire Marshall to ensure that specific building fire codes and smoke detector requirements are met.

Smoke alarms work best when paired with a fire escape plan. A plan allows your family, employees or clients to escape quickly and safely in an emergency situation.

Review the following tips regarding smoke detector installation and maintenance. For more on emergency preparedness, contact SERVPRO® of Kennett Square/Oxford Franchise Professionals.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including the basement.

• Smoke alarms should be installed away from the kitchen to prevent false alarms. Generally, they should be at least 10 feet from a cooking appliance.

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.

• Replace batteries in all smoke alarms at least once a year. If an alarm “chirps,” the battery is low and should be replaces right away.

• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

 *Statistics and tips provided by National Fire Prevention Association

SERVPRO Named to Entrepreneur's Top 10 Franchise List for Ten Consecutive Year

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO retains top ranking in restoration services category in the 2018 Franchise 500 rankings.

SERVPRO, maintains its hold on the top ranking in the Restoration Services industry for the 10th consecutive year in the 2018 Franchise 500 rankings from Entrepreneur magazine. 

"This recognition affirms that SERVPRO is a dynamic organization that continues to grow and strives to always provide superior support for its franchisees, and by extension, its customers," said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., chief executive officer. "The recognition that the company earns year after year in this prestigious list is confirmation of a commitment to excellence that starts at the top and is evident in the service that each franchisee provides to each and every customer."

According to Steen, a number of differentiators set SERVPRO apart from the competition and fuel the attractiveness of the company to both existing franchisees and would-be entrepreneurs looking for a strong business opportunity. Key among these are:

•SERVPRO's commitment to being a learning organization, which keeps training and support at the forefront of the company's culture and philosophy of success and helps franchisees plan, track, and deliver best-in-class services to consumers.

•SERVPRO's focus on continued development and support for proprietary software and systems to allow the company's operational capacity to keep pace with an aggressive growth strategy.

"Today, as a mature franchise organization with more than 1,700 locations under a single brand, recognition like this makes it clear we are reaping the rewards of having laid a solid foundation and a framework to handle quick growth. As our brand continues to grow, we will continue our winning strategy of supporting and improving upon our infrastructure and investing resources in training and support."

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, helping both commercial and residential customers recover from property damage emergencies "Like it never even happened." For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit http://www.SERVPROkennettsquareoxford.com

Community Emergency Response Teams

9/5/2018 (Permalink)

CERT gear

Here at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford we believe in the power of sharing knowledge and information on preparedness for disasters that could affect our communities.  Our marketing manager, Cliff Masscotte, and marketing representative, Brian Arencibia, are both trained as members of Chester County CERT in order to have more knowledge on these topics.  CERT stands for Community Emergency Response Team, and is a program that is organized by FEMA, and is run by Chester County.  The goal of the program is to teach people within the local communities to be prepared to help themselves, their loved ones, and their neighbors in the event of a disaster or unforeseen emergency.  The training includes everything from first aid and triage, to basic search and rescue and small fire fighting.  Through this training with CERT, Cliff and Brian are more prepared to respond to disasters that might occur , and they also have more knowledge and information to share with the communities that we serve. At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford we are ready to serve our communities at a moments notice before, during, and after any disaster that may strike. 

Summer Camp Commercial Mold Remediation

6/1/2018 (Permalink)

Mold damage to the ceiling in basement.

At the start of this spring, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford was called in to assist with a mold remediation at a local youth summer camp.  As they were going through prepping the camp, to be ready to invite the smiling faces of their campers for the summer, they discovered a small water leak in their dining hall had gone un-noticed in the months that the camp was closed down.  This minor leak had created the perfect, humid, environment for mold to grow.  In just a few months’ time the entire basement of the structure had significant mold growth on every surface.  The IICRC certified mold technicians at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford spent a week removing all of the affected content, drop ceiling, and drywall throughout the structure.  The entire structure was then cleaned, treated, and then sealed in order to mitigate the mold damage.  We were proud to have the opportunity to create a clean and safe environment for the children to enjoy this summer. 

Residential Carpet Cleaning

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

Check out our before/after section to see how this cleaning turned out, and why our customers are always quick to say “Like It Never Even Happened!”

The best thing about being an emergency restoration company, is being there for people when they need us most. Did you know it doesn’t have to be an emergency to use SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford though?  Our residential and commercial carpet cleaning service is one of our most popular services!  When this customer found us via our SERVPRO Facebook page, she reached out to our Marketing Manager, Cliff Masscotte, and asked him to come out to take a look. The black stain you see is actually black mulch dye, and is meant to last for a minimum of one year. Not to worry, we were able to get it out in minutes.

Once the crew was on site, they pre-sprayed the spot and agitated it, then treated it with our exclusive line of cleaning agents made in house by SERVPRO.  

Commercial Hardwood Cleaning

4/25/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial VCT strip and wax.

Hardwood flooring is commonly used in both residential and commercial buildings and appears to be easy to clean, maintain, and restore. However, don’t let it fool you - these materials tend to have soil accumulate over time especially in heavy traffic areas, and eventually you’ll need professional cleaning to remove this buildup. That’s where SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford comes in! We were contacted by Avondale Fire Company– Station 23 to shine up their hardwood and tile flooring from every day wear and tear. Our professional technicians took the time and care needed and treated the floors at the fire station like their own. If your home or business has this type of flooring that needs some attention, give us a call! We have trained professionals and specialized cleaning methods that allow us to properly clean and restore your floor’s original beauty.

Kennett Square Residential Water Loss

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

Ice that formed as a result of water flooding the garage

Selling your home can be an incredibly stressful time for anyone, but imagine getting a call from your realtor, while you are away on a business trip, telling you there is water pouring out from under the garage doors.  This was the reality for one of our recent customers in the Kennett Square area.  The current owner was just weeks away from settlement on the sale of their home when they left town. 

Sadly during their trip most of the north east was caught in a severe cold snap that resulted in two broken pipes on their second floor.  A neighbor noticed ice forming on their garage door and coming out from the front door as well and contacted the realtor.  Upon arriving he found that most of the ceilings and walls on the first floor and basement had already collapsed.  There was also over a foot of standing water in the basement. 

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford was called and we had an emergency crew out the same day to begin the process of drying out the structure and removing the damaged materials.  We will now begin the process of rebuilding the interior of the home.  The sale of the home will still be going through, and the new owners will have a clean and beautiful new interior. 

SERVPRO to the rescue!

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

One of the affected hallways

One of our local universities experienced a sprinkler discharge which affected 2 stories, 2 stairwells, and 6 dorm rooms.  Crews were onsite within 30 minutes and worked until approx 11:00pm to extract water and set equipment to help facilitate the drying of the structure.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is ready at a moments notice.  Our franchise is actually designated as a Large Loss Response Team.  This qualification is obtained through several criteria set forth by our corporate office.  Our Commercial Large Loss Division handles any losses estimated to be $50,000 and up.  Once the loss hits an estimated $500,000 our Extreme Response Team is then activated.  Our Franchise also is designated for Storm Production.  We are 1 of 4, out of over 1750 franchises to have this designation.  If a hurricane were to hit from South Carolina up to Maine, we would implement a "Storm Event" and activate local franchises to help the surrounding area.  So rest assured, whatever the size of the loss, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford can help to make it "Like it never even happened."

Old Superfresh building in Kennett

2/7/2018 (Permalink)

The old Superfresh building in Kennett Square

2018 has been off to a brutally cold start.  Across our region home owners and businesses have been struggling with frozen and burst pipes.  One such incident occurred for one of our local property managers in the Kennett Square area.  On New Year’s Day they had a two inch sprinkler line burst in a storefront that they are currently in the process of preparing for new tenants.  They called SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford and within an hour we had a crew of 12 men on site to begin mitigation. 

Our crew spent 6.5 hours battling the frigid temperatures to dry out the structure.  We brought in a large generator and supplemental lighting due to the power being down to the building and multiple pieces of extracting equipment, including a truck mounted unit, to pump out the water as quickly as possible.  At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford our goal is to limit the time that a business has to keep their doors closed during and after any size disaster. 

In the company of those that care

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Keystone Valley's Pomeroy Station

At SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, we pride ourselves in giving back to the communities in which we work. I have covered more than a dozen township community events this year, and for each one, SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford has been a sponsor. We also actively seek out opportunities in which to support our first responders, the ones who make a difference in our daily lives, without us even realizing it. 

Recently, I approached Pete Mango, Public Information Officer of the Keystone Valley Fire Department about their upcoming Pig Roast on October 1st. I explained to Pete that I was interested in sponsoring the event since it was community related, and it would benefit their building fund as well, to help them renovate their Parkesburg station. After pitching the idea to my CFO/Marketing Manager, I had a check waiting for me the same day.

On October 1st, the day of the event, Brian Arencibia and I arrived at the Pomeroy station and were greeted by several members of the team: Mike Short, Doug Delestienne, Earl Taylor, and Mike Emerson were there to name a few. Chief showed up a few minutes later and instructed us to place our SERVPRO vehicles out in front of the station, which was a great idea. Shortly after that, we all went inside and ate one of the most delicious meals I've ever had. 

The day was a success in my eyes. The community was very responsive, and we even had a member from station 8 in Maryland come for dinner. It's a spectacular feeling when people are there to support each other, to grow the community, and to come together in times of need. That is exactly what Keystone Valley Fire Department offers: A chance to be in the company of those who care, and those that make the difference every day. Thank you for everything you do, and stay safe!

Cliff Masscotte

Marketing Manager
SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford

Lending a little elbow grease

11/10/2017 (Permalink)

Cliff and Brian planting for clean up day!

Being an active member of the communities that we serve is important to us at SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford. 

We recently participated in the replanting of the planters and gardens in Oxford, PA with Oxford Mainstreet, Inc.  There was a lot of great help that day, and although we can only post one picture, rest assured there were countless laughs in the background. 

SERVPRO's take on this was transportation.  Marketing Manager Cliff Masscotte utilized one of the work vans in order to transport the almost 100 mums and grasses from the Amish farmers market to OMI.  SERVPRO, OMI, McCormick Orthodontics and others helped to replant the 15+ planters and gardens that day in under 3 hours!  It certainly is a great feeling when the community comes together!

Disaster: Will you be ruined or ready?

8/18/2017 (Permalink)

Large Commercial Loss

When damage strikes you can be ruined or you can be ready! David Hughes, President of SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford, gave a presentation at the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce about the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile. ERPs are a free service offered to local area businesses that helps them be ready for whatever happens!

Hughes told the audience that by preparing with an ERP, you can minimize the amount of time your business is inactive.  Knowing who to call in advance is the key to timely mitigation, and timely mitigation reduces the effects of fire and water damage.

Elements of the ERP include employee and emergency contacts, utility contacts, shut off locations, primary contact information, insurance contacts, property overview and building access information.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square / Oxford is located on Pennsylvania Avenue in Avondale Pennsylvania.  The team provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. Highly trained technicians respond immediately to residential or commercial emergencies.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is a Gold Circle Partner of the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce, and a Platinum Sponsor of the Western Chester County Chamber of Commerce.  This provides financial support for Chamber activities. Network at Noon is the monthly luncheon given for Southern Chamber members and guests on the last Thursday of the month. 

For more information about SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford services, contact them at (610) 268-8620.

SERVPRO helps Longwood Gardens prepare to re-open one of their most popular attractions

5/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford recently spent two weeks helping Longwood Gardens, a local botanical garden, prepare to re-open one of their most popular attractions after three years of renovations and revitalization.  Longwood Gardens has served the community through its educational programs and promotion of the arts.  We were proud to have the opportunity to assist in the post construction cleaning of their newest attractions to create a clean and safe environment for their visitors to enjoy the spectacle of the new fountain gardens.  SERVPRO of Kennett Square/ Oxford has worked exclusively with Longwood Gardens for a number of years to assist in maintaining a clean and appealing environment throughout their facilities for the enjoyment of the millions of guests that visit the gardens each year. We look forward to continuing to do our part to serve those that serve our community.

Paint & Wine Night

6/20/2016 (Permalink)

Tom Bartholetti of ISG, LLC and his wife Kris with their painting Sunset on the Chesapeake

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford likes to thank the businesses that refer their clients to us when they’ve needed help cleaning up from a catastrophe. While thank you cards would suffice, we like to step things up a bit.

A couple of months ago we hosted a spa night for the ladies. (see http://www.SERVPROkennettsquareoxford.com/blog/post/12516/community/spa-night) We recently hosted a Paint & Wine Night for our agents and their spouses or significant others.

The event was held at Kennett Design and we painted the Sunset on the Chesapeake. This is a “couples painting” that allows for each person to paint half of the picture. This was chosen just in case half of the “couple” was a friend and not a spouse. Each half of the painting can stand-alone and doesn’t need the other half to make it whole.

Our guests began to arrive at approximately 6:30 pm and were greeted by Marketing Representatives Cliff Masscotte and Brian Arencibia. Marketing Manager Vanessa Ross played emcee for the evening often tossing out music and sports trivia questions. The evening was lots of fun and the winners of the trivia were awarded prizes that included a custom painted wine glass, insulated travel mugs and even grill tools for the guys.

Everyone had a great time, especially Tom Bartholetti of Inspection Services Group, LLC who said, “I wasn’t sure what to expect but this was really a lot of fun. Thank you for a great evening!”

Pedaling For A Cause

6/13/2016 (Permalink)

Christine (in pink) and two other riders that teamed up to keep each other company during the long ride.

There are people who exercise with the intent to compete against others and there are people who exercise to stay in shape and then there is a small fraction of society who exercises with others in mind. That would be SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford’s CFO Christine Trumbull.

In 2013 Christine was over weight, out of shape and could barely climb a flight of stairs without getting winded. She suffered from heart palpitations, was pre-diabetic, had horrible stomach issues, nightly edema and couldn't even tie her own shoes. 

Then her father died and her aunt began a fight against pancreatic cancer and Christine new that she had to do something or life was going to be very short.

She began with a 10 minute workout video that she was sure, “was going to cause a heart attack” but stuck with it and worked to change her diet.

It was working and the weight was coming off as her stamina increasing until one morning in January 2014, she saw an ad for the Inaugural Ride to Conquer Cancer and said to herself, “I have to do that. Doesn’t matter that I don’t have a bike, I can buy one.” And she did, in May of that year, and started training.

Her aunt continued to decline and passed in July.  According to Christine, she cried for the month of August then got back on the bike in September and continued to train. In October Christine completed that inaugural ride from Philadelphia to Allentown which is basically 75 miles up hill. The weather was terrible. It was cold and rainy but she finished and single handedly raised $6000 for the cause.

Over the years Christine has invested countless hours into riding to raise money for things near and dear to her heart not the least of which is Diabetes.

Christine’s son Matthew 18, was diagnosed at the age of 6 with type 1 diabetes. Since that day their lives have revolved around the various doctor’s appointments that go with diabetes not to mention the mental, emotional and financial toll on the family.

The latest of her rides was 100 miles to the Chesapeake Bay in May of 2016 for the American Diabetes Association.  She initially pledged to raise $1000 but as time went on she kept meeting her fundraising goals and increasing them with her final tally coming in at $3,303. Out of more than 450 individual riders and teams Christine was #8 overall for fundraising!

The day of the ride was miserable, it was raining and the wind was in her face nearly the entire ride but Christine never gave up.  She completed all 100 miles and has now signed up to do 150 in the fall.

SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford is grateful to have someone so capable and dedicated at the helm helping to drive us toward improving our skills and service the way she pushes herself.