Recent Commercial Posts

5 Tips To Create a Business Fire Escape Plan

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

A commercial fire escape plan A fire escape plan for a commercial building.

It is estimated that there are more than 100,000 commercial fires every year. While a fire damage and restoration company may be able to restore the property, business owners in Layton, UT, need to ensure the safety of everyone inside. Establishing a fire escape plan is essential for that to happen.

Essential Parts of an Emergency Escape Plan

Every business may be different, but there are key ingredients to an emergency plan regardless of the size or type of business.

1. Identify Potential Hazards

While not all fires are preventable, many of them are. The first step in creating a plan requires determining what hazards your business may face. Inspect every part of the property to determine what may be a fire threat. Things to look for include overloaded electrical outlets, equipment near water, employees using space heaters and storage closets with flammable chemicals. If your business has a kitchen, it is ideal to establish rules to ensure that any equipment is being properly used.

2. Assign Key Roles

When a fire breaks out, it is often a chaotic situation. To help ensure your fire escape plan works, it is important to establish a chain of command and assign key roles to specific individuals. Along with a chief warden, who will take the lead during an event, other assignments should include an assistant warden, route guides and floor monitors. The route guides will work to help people calmly evacuate and keep the path clear while the floor monitors will ensure everyone is safely out of the area.

3. Establish Designated Escape Routes

Successfully evacuating requires knowing the best path out. Every plan should have both a primary and secondary escape route. These routes should also be kept clear of objects that may slow down the escape. A map should be created, especially if your business has multiple floors, that clearly shows the route and fire extinguisher locations. Along with getting out of the building, ensure that everyone knows where to meet up after exiting the building. This location should be a safe distance away from the property.

4. Have a Communication Plan

Communication is always important, especially in an emergency situation. It is important that one of the key roles established in the plan is in charge of calling emergency responders, as well as communicating with customers, employees and other business-related people. This is an important role to not only ensure that everyone on-site has up-to-date information but also to ensure that business operations will get back on track faster after the situation is over.

5. Practice the Plan

Practice makes perfect applies perfectly to being prepared for emergency situations. Just like kids in school, adults also need to regularly go through the fire plan and conduct drills. Doing so helps reaffirm that everyone knows what they should be doing as well as serves as an opportunity to make the plan as efficient as possible.

Every business should have a fire escape plan. Whether the business is small or large, ensuring that everyone knows where to go and what to do may help ensure everyone's safety.

How To Save Your Wet Wood Floor

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Image of a wet wood floor Water can damage your wood flooring.

Wood flooring is beautiful and can enhance the look of your building. However, wood floors can easily be damaged by water from a pipe burst, spill or another source. Quick action is required to prevent permanent damage.

How To Save Your Wet Floor

Waxes and sealants provide you with more time to clean up spills and other water damage before it is absorbed into the wood. However, quick action is still required to save your wood floor from permanent damage:

1. Remove Wet Objects

Anything wet that is lying on your floor will continue to leach water into the floor. Additionally, mold and mildew may grow which can infiltrate the seams and pores of your floor. Remove wet rugs, carpets, clothing, toys, furniture and other items as soon as possible. Throw out items that can not be salvaged and move the rest to a location where they can dry without damaging your floor.

2. Remove As Much Water As You Can

Use mops, towels and clean rags to absorb as much liquid as you can. If you are dealing with a pipe burst, make sure the water supply to the pipe is shut off so that additional water isn't leaking onto your flooring. You can remove larger amounts of water with a wet vacuum. Continue to vacuum even after there is no longer visible water on the surface of the floor. This will remove some of the water that is in the plank seams and wood pores. Keep vacuuming until you are no longer seeing any new water in the vacuum canister. If you are dealing with damage from a flood or a large amount of water from a plumbing issue, consider contacting a water restoration service in Layton, UT, to assist you with removing the water from the flooring.

3. Dry the Floor

Once you finish removing as much water as you can with the wet vacuum, finish drying the wood. Position a dehumidifier in the center of the room and run it on its highest setting for a minimum of 24 hours. Position fans around the room and run them at high speed. If the damage is on an upper floor, place fans on the level below and aim them toward the ceiling to help dry the subfloor and underside of the flooring. If it is not raining, you can open some windows to increase air circulation.

4. Check for Mold

Moisture promotes mold growth. Look for signs of mold in the pores of your wood floor. If you find any, clean the floor with baking soda and water or contact a mold restoration service.

5. Test for Remaining Moisture

Use a moisture testing meter to check for moisture remaining in the wood of your floors. It may take several weeks for the floors to completely dry. Keep running your fans and dehumidifier until the meter shows no moisture remaining in the flooring.

Water from a pipe burst, flood or spill can severely damage wood flooring. However, taking quick action to remove water and dry the flooring can reduce the amount of damage that occurs.

How Pretesting Helps To Lower Insurance Claims

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

Damaged Roof Know more about Insurance Claims by Following Our Tips.

Having a solid property insurance policy is essential for any property or business owner. Managing the claims process well is one factor in keeping premiums affordable. When a building in Layton, UT, is damaged, it makes sense to call certified restoration experts so that the mitigation process can begin as soon as possible. The best teams, however, start with pretesting. A little extra attention at the beginning of cleanup can make a world of difference when it comes to filing accurate insurance claims.

Identify Contamination Level

Any time there is water damage in a commercial building, a preliminary inspection helps technicians determine the extent of the issue. First, they identify the source of the water. Even if the leak is from a clean source, however, it is prudent to test for the contamination level:

  • Category 1 - Clean water from pipe or supply line
  • Category 2 - Gray water from machine or appliance runoff
  • Category 3 - Contaminated water from a storm or the sewer

The initial source may put out clean water, but excess moisture can easily become contaminated before the cleanup crew gets to it. For example, a leak may start with a malfunctioning faucet but pick up dirt and other debris as it seeps through walls and flooring. Knowing this information at the beginning of the process is crucial for creating an accurate claim.

Reveal Additional Issues Through Inspection

Another way that pretesting helps to lower claims is by showing the scope of the problem during the inspection. Any additional issues that are discovered can be repaired before they cause secondary damage. For example, a busted pipe may be the cause of the current emergency, but when technicians discover weaknesses in the pipes around it during their assessment, they can make recommendations for preventative repairs.

The building owner can go ahead and have those issues repaired so that they don't cause water damage later, which saves him or her from having to file another insurance claim.

Inform Future Prevention Strategies

A maintenance problem that leads to water damage is not exactly good news, but it can be informative, particularly when it comes to prevention. Once strategies are implemented and the cause of the water loss is thwarted, the number of claims the client files should be reduced dramatically. Prevention can include actions such as adding insulation to pipes along external walls or replacing worn-out plumbing.

Business owners should talk to their insurance agent to understand the maintenance responsibilities the provider expects clients to uphold under specific policies.

When a building sustains water damage, it is understandable for business owners to want to resolve the issue as soon as possible, but thorough remediation starts with pretesting. A solid assessment helps technicians properly diagnose the problem and create a clear plan of action. It is also vital for compiling an accurate task list for the itemized estimate. Such an investigation can even prevent the problem from happening again in the future. Inspections and other tests at the beginning of the cleanup process reduce insurance claims in the long run.

How To Protect Your Property After Fire Damage

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Owner making repairs after a fire Protect Your Property and Avoid Fire Damage in your Property.

Even after taking many precautions, your commercial property in Kaysville, UT, can experience fire damage. When this happens, most of your attention will naturally be on recovery from damage and ensuring the safety of the people on and around your property. Unfortunately, looting can also be a cause of loss in the aftermath of the fire.

Prevent Looting and Other Losses After Fire Damage

Many businesses simply aren't very secure even before an emergency, and after a fire, those buildings become enticing to looters and other unwanted intruders. There are several reasons that your property is more vulnerable at this point:

  • Doors and windows aren't tightly secured.
  • Structural damage leads to more openings.
  • Many unknown people are walking in and out of the property.

When your business is in upheaval, it's much easier for intruders, including animals, to enter your property.

Board and Tarp Openings

One of the first steps you can take to prevent looting after fire damage is hiring property cleanup and recovery professionals to board up and add tarps to your building. This step prevents water and wind from causing secondary damage.

It also discourages people from climbing through those openings and stealing materials from your property as well as protecting you against any liability you may hold when a third party is injured while on your property.

Remove Valuable Belongings

When the fire department gives you the go-ahead to reenter your property, remove valuable belongings that would attract the attention of intruders. Some fire cleanup and recovery technicians will remove and repair some of those belongings, so work closely with these professionals.

In addition to computers and other machines, you may want to secure inventory, fixtures, and materials such as copper wiring.

Discourage Animal Intruders

Identify areas that are still vulnerable, particularly to animals and pests. Rats, mice, and birds may move into your building through new gaps and cracks in the walls and roof. These pests build nests, chew up building materials, and gnaw through wiring. This damage leads to further damage and opens up opportunities for corrosion and mold growth.

Insects may also find a damaged building more enticing and can cause damage when building hives and as honey seeps through cracks in the walls. All of these pests can disrupt daily routines with unwanted noise.

Implement Obvious Security Measures

Next, make sure you have visible security measures and deterrents. Temporary fencing is a great way to make it harder for would-be intruders to tamper with your property. Visible cameras and security systems warn away anyone tempted to enter your building. The boarding that you had installed previously is an integral part of this prevention.

Arrange for visual inspections and patrols. The presence of someone moving around on your property discourages passersby from stopping to investigate. An official presence on your property keeps curious onlookers, looters, and kids away from your building throughout the fire cleanup process.

When fire damage makes your Kaysville, UT, building vulnerable to intruders, you risk loss through further property damage, theft, and liability. Protect your property and belongings by taking steps to reduce access, discourage trespassing, and increase a security presence.

Understanding Your Company's Fire Sprinkler System

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Fire Sprinkler spraying water To avoid Fire Damage, it is good to Understand Your Company's Fire Sprinkler System

If your company has taken the extra step of putting in a fire sprinkler system, it has made a significant investment in fire protection. These units are at the ready night and day and can effectively suppress an incipient fire that could cause many thousands of dollars of damage.

Business fires are all too common, especially if your company in Kaysville, UT, is in a high-risk industry:

  • Hot food preparation
  • Warehousing of combustible items
  • Heating and cooling
  • Manufacturing

While sprinklers in your building are a valuable investment, they only are effective for fire suppression if they are in working order. To a large extent, this task falls on the company you contracted with, but that doesn't mean you don't have any responsibilities.

Knowing All About Your Fire Sprinkler System

The more you or someone in your company knows about the sprinkler system, the better off you will be. This allows you to develop a working relationship with your contractor and lets you keep track of regulations and compliance laws. A rudimentary understanding of how the system works is also important.

In general, a business sprinkler system has a series of piping that runs throughout the critical areas of your company. At certain points, sprinkler heads can release water from these pipes. When a fire starts, sensors recognize the heat and the system activates, spraying water onto the fire.

The best part of a good system is that it stops fires before they get big. This can prevent a lot of damage. You will still need a professional water damage restoration company to come to your building, but the cleanup will likely be fairly small. A fire sprinkler cleanup pales in comparison to a restoration job that includes soot and smoke damage.

Understanding the Installation Process

The people who install your system will be professionals who are well versed in the pertinent regulations and codes that apply. They can install the entire system when the building is going up, or they can put in a system in an existing building.

The cost for a good fire suppression system is not cheap, but it can save your company money on insurance. If the system is ever needed, especially at night when no one is around, it will be among the best investments your company has ever made.

Dispelling Myths About Sprinklers

Some companies worry that sprinklers could discharge for no reason or just because the air is too warm. Or that an insignificant heat source could activate the sprinkler heads, but this is rare and is unlikely to cause much damage to an area.

It is also important to note that not all sprinkler heads activate at once, only those nearest to the flame. In many cases, only one sprinkler head is needed to contain a fire.

At the minimum, your company should have a robust fire prevention plan in place to protect your property, your employees and the future of your company. A solid fire sprinkler system is one of the most effective ways to limit the damaging effects of a commercial fire.

How To Prevent Rain Damage to Your Building

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded Street. Prevent Rain Damage in Your Commercial Building by following These Tips.

Seasonal downpours can wreak havoc on your commercial property. During a strong storm in Kaysville, UT, there is a heightened risk of rain damage to your building. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to decrease your chances of flooding and protect the structure from both water damage and secondary issues such as mold growth.

Control Water Flow To Prevent Rain Damage

Flood prevention starts with a tight building envelope. Begin with a thorough inspection of every possible place where excess moisture is likely to enter your structure:

  • Does the roof pitch encourage efficient runoff?
  • Is your roof intact?
  • Are the windows and doors well-sealed when shut?
  • Can you identify any weak spots where exterior walls meet the roof?
  • Is your foundation stable and free of cracks?

The harder it is for water to get into your building, the less likely you are to find water damage during a storm, particularly on the upper levels. A frequent survey of the building is an important part of a preventative maintenance plan.

Prevent Condensation Buildup

A spring rainstorm can mess with the temperature control inside your building. Condensation happens when warm air comes into contact with a cold surface. The conflicting temperatures pull moisture from the air and cause it to bead up, leading to potential rain damage. Common places where condensation occurs include HVAC systems and behind or beneath appliances. If you catch the problem quickly, you can take measures to even out temperatures so that it doesn't become a bigger issue.

Improve Ventilation Throughout Building

While it's important to keep floodwaters out of your building, you want to make sure that your efforts don't stifle ventilation. Stale air can lead to higher humidity levels, which create a prime environment for black mold growth. Keep your HVAC system running even when people aren't in the building to keep airflow constant throughout the building. It's also a good idea to test your air quality on a regular basis so that you can identify potential issues before they cause a problem.

Protect Basement From Backflow

During a heavy storm, it is not uncommon for municipal sewers to become full with the extra runoff the event produces. This may be bad news for your building, particularly if you don't have valves to stop the sewer from backing up and releasing through drains inside the structure. When this happens, quick action is the key to minimizing the damage that it may cause.

Storm damage restoration experts recommend that you install a sump pump in your basement to start the process of removing excess water as soon as the device is triggered. The less time that standing water spends in your building, the less destructive it is likely to be.

You can't always keep all excess moisture out of your building, especially during a particularly heavy storm. You can, however, minimize the ability of the excess water to enter your building, and you can take measures to control humidity and moisture issues inside the structure. The more precautions you take, the more likely you are to avoid excessive rain damage.

Steps To Take After Water Damage

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded Office. Follow these tips If your Commercial Building has Water Damage.

Regular inspection of your commercial building in Layton, UT, is essential for identifying maintenance issues before they get out of hand. Whether you have a busted pipe or a hidden leak, any extra moisture can cause a lot of water damage, especially if you don't catch it early. If you find evidence of a leak, there are a few steps you need to take immediately.

Consider these Steps if you experience Water Damage

Report Water Damage to Insurance Provider

The first thing you need to do any time there is a problem with your commercial property is to contact your coverage provider, and damage caused by broken pipes is no exception. Notifying your insurance agent as soon as you know there's a problem has several benefits:

  • Start your claims process
  • Prompt a visit from an adjuster
  • Guard against any negligence concerns

The sooner your insurance company knows about the problem, the faster its response is likely to be when it comes to getting you the support you need to pay for it. Reporting the issue to your provider can also serve as evidence that you are doing everything you can to get your building back in order.

Document All Damage

Upon arrival, your insurance adjuster will complete a walkthrough of the affected areas and make note of the water damage in your building. The adjuster may have several questions for you to help determine the timeline of the loss and how much your policy covers. Finally, he or she is likely to take pictures and videos of the problem areas and make a list of damages.

It's a good idea to collect your own documentation as well. As the first person to see the damage, you are in the unique position of being able to show exactly how it looked from the beginning. If there is standing water, for example, you can take pictures before and after it was extracted. Additionally, the insurance company may ask you to include a list of items that need to be repaired or replaced along with an estimate of what it will cost to do so. Accurate documentation increases the chances that your claim will be accepted.

Contact Restoration Company

Another thing you need to do shortly after you discover damage to your building due to a leak or pipe break is to call water restoration experts. They typically arrive on-site within hours to start the water cleanup process. They will assess the damage to your building, remove water and damaged materials, clean and dry the affected area, and restore the structure to its former state.

It's a good idea to hire a company that handles both mitigation and restoration. One benefit of this decision is that it tends to improve communication throughout the process. Another perk is that all of the details of the process as well as the charges for each item are included in one statement. This gives you one document with all the remediation charges to submit with your insurance claim.

As with any problem, it's important to document issues with your building and loop in the necessary professionals. When your commercial building has water damage, your quick response is the key to minimizing the time and cost of fixing it.

Water Mitigation Procedures for Pipe Burst and Supply Line Failures

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Bursting Pipe Learn more about Bursting Pipes and avoid Water Damage.

Water damage in commercial facilities is often a concern because of the inventory and cost of business interruption. While a restoration service in Layton, UT, can help with a pipe burst cleanup or supply line leak, the company must understand how long the site will be out of service. The timeline depends on several factors, but the primary consideration is how long each step in the restoration process will take.

  • Excavate the water
  • Repair the leak
  • Dry the interior
  • Restore the building

Steps For Water Mitigation 


Excavate the Water

A supply line leaking may not take that long to recover from because there is limited and controlled flooding. However, a complete break or burst often floods the premises, requiring a significant amount of pumping and problem-solving.


Repair the Leak

The critical first step of any mitigation process is finding the damage to the supply line, and that search can often come before the pipe burst cleanup. The time it takes to find and repair the leak depends on the extent of the damage. In some instances, the break is obvious, but more often, the leak and water damage stems from several pipes, some of which may be hidden behind walls.


Dry the Interior

With the water shutoff and problems addressed, the restoration service can begin the water cleanup, which involves the drying of the facility. The company will use multiple tools, such as dehumidifiers, fans, and air movers. Drying the interior can take several days, depending on the level of flooding.


Restore the Building

Once the space is dry, the restoration service can move on to repairing the building. When the team finishes the project, all plumbing should be in working order, and it should be challenging to tell the difference when compared to pre-disaster conditions.


A pipe burst cleanup can devastate a business, but problems can resolve quickly when companies prepare for the risks. Ensure that you have an emergency plan and understand the necessary steps for mitigation and restoration should disaster strike.

Category Two Water Damage and Your Business

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

Contaminated Water. Consider these tips if your business in Kaysville, UT experiences Water Damage,

Businesses typically experience high volume water usage because of the number of patrons and employees using the facilities daily. The extensive usage can lead to a shortage in the lifespan of pipes throughout the complex. In turn, commercial buildings can experience breaks, and water pipe repair needs more frequently than residential properties.

Important tips to consider if you experience Water Damage

If your business experiences water damage, it can occur at various contamination levels, typically requiring professional intervention from a restoration service in Kaysville, UT to avoid extensive problems, such as:

  • Flooding
  • Inventory loss
  • Business interruption

A water restoration and mitigation service will quickly identify the water category and mitigate further losses. However, the first move is to contact the professional rather than attempt a DIY solution.

Water Pipe Repair and Safety

A broken pipe does not imply a catastrophe. Pipe breaks occur at various levels of severity, including a minor split in a supply line to a sink or a total collapse of a drainage system.

Your response needs to match the urgency of the situation. A minor break from a clean water source is not as urgent as a break within a wastewater line, but both require a level of immediacy.

Unless you are a licensed plumber or disaster response specialist, it is vital to leave category identification to the experts. Attempting to enter a flooded area without first understanding the risks is reckless.

Water Categories and Risks

There are three categories of water loss: clean, gray, and black.

Clean water loss or damage is a flood caused by a break in a clean water source, such as a supply line to a sink.

Gray water or category two water stems from clean water exposed to other substances. For instance, if clean water soaks through the ceiling of an upper floor to flood the lower level, it exposes the lower level to category two damage. Gray water is not safe and can lead to illness.

Black water is the most contaminated version of floodwater. It typically comes from a waste source or an external source. Black water is filled with bacteria and other contaminants. It can be toxic, and it should only be cleaned by professionals.

Category 2 Cleanup

Because category two water can also present health risks, hiring a professional to clean your facility is best. The cleanup process is the same as it is for any water cleanup:

  • Remove excess water
  • Dry affected areas
  • Clean facilities
  • Restore to pre-disaster condition

The water restoration process can take anywhere from two to five days or more, depending on the severity of the damage. A minor, clean water flood will typically take significantly less time to remediate than a gray or black water flood.

For more specifics on the timeline, talk to a restoration professional. They can assess your property and provide more insight.

A water pipe repair can be the least of your concerns if portions of your facility flood. While the repair is essential, the damage and the loss category can determine the expense and timeline for recovery.

When facing a flood or pipe break, contact a restoration service. It is best to avoid DIY solutions, primarily when your business depends on a timely recovery.

Prepare Your Business for Flood Safety: Before, During, and After the Flood

12/9/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in stairwell Commercial flood damage in Kaysville, UT

Floods can be caused by many situations, such as overflowing rivers, ocean storms, heavy rain, and quickly melting snow. Broken dams and levees can also lead to rising water. In fact, flooding is the most common form of natural-weather disaster, whether it involves a couple of inches or a flash flood that covers all of the vehicles in your parking lot.

How to Protect Your Business From Floods

There are several things you can do to protect your business from floods and flood damage, before, during, and after the disaster.

1. Take Action Before Floods Hit

One of the most important things you can do before your business is affected by flooding is to save your crucial data. This means setting a regular schedule for backing up your information and maintaining cloud storage. With your business plan, banking information, contracts, and other high-priority documents safely stored on the cloud, you won't have to panic when black water fills your records room.

Other steps to take before the water rises include establishing a business continuity plan, setting up emergency kits and evacuation routes, and establishing an emergency response protocol. You may also want to establish a professional relationship with an emergency mitigation company for a faster response when disasters happen.

2. Maintain Safety During Rising Water

During flooding, follow the directions of Kaysville, UT, authorities, put your emergency plan into action and focus on keeping your personnel safe. Be aware of dangers such as electricity when the water rises above the levels of outlets, the increased risk of falling because of slick surfaces, and contamination when black water enters the building.

3. Recover From Flood Damage

Even as the water begins to recede, stay away from affected areas. The water on your property and in your buildings may carry raw sewage, chemicals, and other dangerous substances. Moving water could make you lose your balance. Contact Kaysville, UT, emergency restoration workers to learn the most appropriate steps to take.

How To Clean Up the Effects of Roof Damage

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

Image of a ceiling damaged with leaking water. A damaged roof due to a storm can lead to water damage.

A big storm in Layton, UT, can do more than just leave your office building without power for a little while. High winds can scatter debris and loosen shingles. Add heavy rain to the mix, and you may have a serious roof leak on your hands. Storm damage restoration specialists can help you find and fix all the problems caused by inclement weather.

2 Ways a Restoration Specialists Can Help With Storm Damage 

Roof Repair

Taking care of the damage to the roof is the first priority. This keeps more water and debris from getting into your building and causing more issues. Hail and wind can tear up your roof in several ways:

  • Missing shingles
  • Torn flashing
  • Clogged gutters
  • Cracks and holes


Until the roof repair is finished, tarps and board-up services are necessary to protect your building. Once contractors start to repair the damaged roof, cleanup technicians can inspect the interiors for water damage and related problems.

Damage Cleanup

If you have a roof leak, you probably also have some interior damage. The first thing that the mitigation team does is tear out all the materials that cannot be salvaged. This likely includes saturated drywall, insulation, flooring and ceiling tiles. Once all the ruined parts of the structure are removed, the technicians can focus on disinfecting and drying the area. Then, they rebuild walls, install new ceilings and flooring, and make sure the paint matches so that no one can tell where the damage was. Finally, all equipment, furniture and other items must be thoroughly cleaned before they are returned to their rightful place in the building.

After a storm, you need to inspect your office building, especially the roof. Even a small roof leak can cause considerable water damage. Not only do you need roof repair but also a certified team to help you clean up the mess it leaves inside. Fast and thorough mitigation can protect your building from further damage.

Content Cleaning and Restoration

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Image of a broken commercial pipe A broken pipe can lead to severe commercial water damage.

Floods and other water damage can result in significant loss for a commercial property. A flooded company will need to cope with the potential losses of electrical equipment, paperwork, and inventory. Thankfully, not all hope is lost after a water crisis. As a property manager or business owner, you can call on the support of a restoration company in Layton, UT, to help salvage any potentially damaged content. The process for saving equipment, inventory, or files will depend on the materials, which often fall into three categories.

3 Categories for Content Cleaning and Restoration

1. Paper

Paperwork is among the most vulnerable to water loss because it is degradable. Therefore, following a broken pipe or flood, you want to collect the material quickly. Lay it out in a dry area with direct sunlight. You can place a paper towel underneath to expedite the drying process. Some documents might need a more nuanced approach, in which case, you will want to contact a specialist or a document recovery service.

2. Electronics

More than likely, a flooded company will have damaged or affected electronics, like computers or machinery. Whatever you do, do not turn anything on. It is best in situations like these to contact a service technician. The equipment will need to be thoroughly dried before being powered on, and even then, certain precautions might need to be made.

3. Fabric

It is not uncommon for companies to have fabrics, like rugs, curtains, etc. While some of these materials might be washable, others might require specialized or commercial equipment or dry cleaning. Depending on the type of flooding experienced by your property, you might want to contact a restoration specialist for advice on cleaning.

A flooded company is likely to experience a variety of water damage. Instead of writing off everything to loss, consider the material and its value. There are many professional cleaners specializing in water damage restoration.

Your OSHA Compliant First Aid Kit

4/12/2021 (Permalink)

Image of a first aid kit Having a first aid kit is crucial.

As a facility owner or manager, you have a lot of responsibilities, and one of the most important is protecting the safety of the people inside your Layton, UT, buildings. To that end, a well-stocked first aid kit is crucial, and it's an important part of OSHA compliance.

Focus on the Goals of First Aid

Workplace first aid must provide for the temporary care of an injured person until medical professionals can provide the necessary care. The primary goals of providing first aid are:

  • To preserve life
  • To prevent further injury
  • To promote recovery


OSHA-Required Basics

Start with the basic items required in an emergency kit and adjust the numbers of items by the number of people in your buildings:

  • 4x4-inch gauze pads
  • 8x10-inch gauze pads (at least two)
  • 1 box of adhesive bandages
  • 2-inch-wide gauze roller bandage
  • Triangular bandages (at least two)
  • Two elastic wraps
  • Scissors
  • Adhesive tape


More Items Required by OSHA

After including the basic items you need for treating common injuries, add supplies to improve the quality of first air care:

  • Latex gloves
  • Sealed moistened towelettes or other sterile wound cleaning agent
  • Tweezers
  • Burn spray or cream
  • Burn dressing items
  • Eyewash stations and refill solution
  • Splint
  • Blanket (at least one)
  • Resuscitation equipment


Items Not Required by OSHA

You could also include items that increase the comfort of individuals in the workplace:

  • Allergy relief
  • Cold relief
  • Headache relief
  • Antacids


Education for Providing First Aid


In addition to filling your first aid kit with these necessary items, you should also be prepared for the most common workplace medical emergencies:

  • Heart attacks
  • Respiratory distress, such as asthma attacks, allergic reactions, and choking
  • Seizures
  • Shock
  • Stroke


First aid and emergency response training sessions should be scheduled regularly, so your employees are prepared to act appropriately when emergencies take place.

Are You Prepared?

The care you put into stocking and maintaining each first aid kit in your facility is critical, not only for protecting the safety of the people but also for remaining compliant with OSHA guidelines. What steps have you taken to prepare for emergencies and keep your facilities safe?

Tips for Mitigation and Restoration After a Fire

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

Image of a business in flames suffering fire damage You will receive an estimate after an assessment of the damaged caused by the fire.

A fire in your commercial property in Layton, UT, can leave behind a lot of damage. Not only do you have to contend with the soot and charred structure, you also may experience significant water damage from the large amount needed to put out the fire. The fire damage repair process may seem daunting at first, but these tips can help you navigate the plan from start to finish in an efficient manner.

2 Tips for Mitigation and Restoration After a Fire

1. Streamline the Process

Your first call should be to a reputable fire restoration company. Many teams specialize in either fire mitigation or restoration, but the process goes more smoothly if you find one team with experts in both of these main stages. The unified team is your one-stop shop for all the steps of remediation:

  • Assessment
  • Board-up service
  • Water extraction
  • Material removal
  • Drying
  • Smoke and soot cleaning
  • Disinfection
  • Restoration


Working with one company to complete the whole process has a couple of key advantages. The estimate you receive after assessment covers everything you will need to list on your insurance claim. You also don't have to worry about a lack of communication between the team repairing the fire damage and the one rebuilding your structure when they both work for the same company.

2. Inform Your Insurance Provider

Your insurance company should be looped into the repair process from the start. Call your agent as soon as you know that the mitigation technicians are on their way. The sooner you call, the sooner the insurance adjuster will arrive at your building. Be prepared with the mitigation team's assessment when you accompany the adjuster on the walk-through. After he or she processes the assessment, your insurance claim can be processed more efficiently.

The fire damage repair process can be long and arduous, particularly if the fire covered a large area of your property. By keeping your insurance company informed and hiring one team to handle both mitigation and restoration, you can ease some of your burden.

Why You Need Business Interruption Insurance

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Image of an office flooded with water up to the ceiling. Flooding can lead to severe water damage.

There are quite a few things that could disrupt your Layton, UT, business operations and protecting against those interruptions can be one of your top priorities. In spite of your precautions, however, it's also important to purchase business interruption insurance to cover you against losses, such as large water damage that might occur following flooding.

What To Expect From Business Interruption Insurance


Just as there are multiple insurance providers, there are many different policies and degrees of coverage, but there are some protections that are consistent:

  • If flooding from a broken pipe closes your doors, that lost income, or the money you would have made if you'd stayed open, is generally covered.
  • Without revenue, it can be hard to cover basic expenses, such as your mortgage or rent and payroll. Your insurance coverage may ensure that you can pay your business-related bills and your employees can continue to pay their bills as well.
  • Sometimes, property damage is severe enough that you need to move your business elsewhere while cleanup and remediation professionals repair your building. Your insurance policy may cover the temporary relocation

In addition to making sure you have appropriate insurance coverage, you also need to work to keep recovery losses and costs low.

How To Prevent Further Damage

Taking quick action is one of the most important things you can do to lower your business interruption insurance losses. If it's possible to stop water from flowing through your property, such as by shutting off the water main, do this as quickly as possible. Reach out to your insurance provider and water cleanup and damage professionals to learn more actions you can take to reduce damage and get your company back to business as quickly as possible.

The protection you enjoy through insurance coverage is just one way to help your business survive disasters such as flooding. What are some other steps your business has taken to weather catastrophes?

What Goes Into Estimating the Cost of Commercial Fire Restoration?

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

 Image of a building burned down. Only left with debris and burned materials Commercial fire damage.

Watching your Layton, UT, commercial building go up in flames can send your mind into a tailspin. What happens when the flames are finally out? You’ll most likely need to hire fire damage restoration professionals to make sure the job is done as quickly and thoroughly as possible. After all, the sooner restoration is completed, the sooner business can return to normal.

5 Elements Considered To Calculate the Cost of Fire Restoration 


There are a few elements that restoration professionals take into consideration when calculating the cost of a fire estimate:

1. Debris Removal

One of the first parts of the commercial fire restoration process is removing debris from the affected area. The debris can be the main cause of the smoke smell. All unsalvageable materials will be inventoried and then disposed of. After the inventory is complete, it’ll be given to your insurance adjuster so they can determine replacement costs.

2. Board Up

Board up services are necessary to begin immediately to prevent secondary damage, vandalism and theft. If the fire department is called, you’ll probably have water damage, in addition to the burned materials, smoke and soot. Fire damage restoration professionals will remove water from the building before boarding up the doors, windows and damaged walls.

3. Roof Replacement

If the roof has been damaged in the fire, emergency roof tarping will be necessary to protect the building from the elements until a permanent roof can be installed.

4. Damage Restoration and Reconstruction

Property damaged by fire and water will need to be cleaned, deodorized and possibly rebuilt.

5. Content Cleaning and Restoration

All salvageable items will be packed up to be cleaned at a cleaning facility. They’ll be cleaned, sanitized, deodorized and then stored until you’re ready to move them back into your building.

If your business goes up in flames, call fire damage professionals to get a fire estimate as quickly as possible. They can return your building to its pre-fire condition so you can continue with business as usual.

Beyond Sandbagging: Tips for Flood Control

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Image of sand bags placed in front of a blue door. Sand bags used as a barrier.

A flood in Layton, UT, can leave your building in shambles. You probably know the tried-and-true flood prevention measures that can deter water for a little while, but are you aware of newer methods on the market? If you want to think beyond the sand bag, here are some other options that may help you protect your business better.

2 Other Options For Flood Control

Reusable Dams

You probably have trusted local flood restoration experts on speed dial, but everyone knows it's better to avoid flood damage in the first place. Sand bags are handy, but it can take a long time to fill them or put them in place. A makeshift dam may be a faster option. There are several reusable dams on the market:

  • QuickDam- expands to block flooding as it absorbs it.
  • AquaDam- fills with water to provide a 4-foot barrier.
  • HydraBarrier- replaces multiple sand bags when you fill the tube with water.

A sand bag is only one small barrier to water that threatens to seep into your building during a storm. Reusable dams are faster to use, allowing you to protect a larger area than just your doors and windows.

Instant Levees

Why stop at just protecting the building itself? You can purchase a larger apparatus that completely surrounds your building, providing an instant levee when you fill it or assemble it. This may be especially appealing to property owners who want to protect the grounds or other structures on the land in which they have invested a lot of money. Flood cleanup typically goes more quickly outside, but putting up an instant levee when you know a storm is on its way can keep problems at bay altogether.
Sandbagging can be marginally effective, but it's time consuming to fill and place each sand bag.

Other barrier options let you protect more of your property in a shorter amount of time.

Take These 5 Steps After a Toilet Floods 2 Floors

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

Image of a person fixing a toilet Act fast and remain calm when a toilet at your commercial property overflows.

A flooded toilet likely isn’t part of your Layton, UT, business plan. That won’t stop it from happening, though. Ditto for floor, ceiling and sewer damage. Here’s what to do when a toilet floods multiple floors.

5 Steps To Follow AFter a Toilet Floods Multiple Floors

1. Turn the Water Off

Your first step is to stop the flow of water. Look for a shutoff valve near the commode. If you can’t find that, you’ll need to turn off the building’s water main.

2. Dry the Area

Use mops and towels to soak up any excess water on each affected floor. If mops won’t cut it, break out the shop vac. If the water is cloudy, don't touch it.

3. Remove Wet Ceiling and Floor Tiles

If the water is clear, your next step should be to remove flooring from the area around the toilet and ceiling tiles from the floor below. When a toilet overflow permeates the floor it typically soaks building materials and other structural features that, if left unattended, can develop mold.

4. Call in the Pros

If the water is not clear, sewer damage has likely contaminated the water. When this happens, you should leave cleanup to a sewage company or water damage restoration team. Water that contains sewage is called Category 3, or “black” water, because it can harbor a wide range of toxins and potentially harmful bacteria. A professional water damage company has the equipment, know-how and safety gear to rid your commercial property of contaminated water and secure it.

5. Repair Any Damages

You don’t have to spot black water on the premises to enlist the help of trained professionals, though. No matter where water originates, working with a water damage mitigation company is often the wisest way to restore your property. In addition to drying out and cleaning the affected areas, technicians will work quickly to return your workplace or rental property to its pre-flood condition by completing any necessary repairs.

When a toilet at your commercial property overflows, your first instinct may be to panic. By acting fast and remaining calm you can minimize sewer damage and lasting destruction to your building and its contents.

Why Quick Response Times and Pretesting Matter in the Claims Process

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

Front side of the building damaged Damaged building.

Before you file an insurance claim, you want to ensure you are working with a commercial remediation service in Layton, UT, who understands the importance of rapid response and pretesting. Each component plays a significant role in the overall claim value and may even limit the total expense to both the company and insurer. There are three reasons response time and pretesting matter to your insurance agent and should matter to you.

  • Mitigation
  • Salvage
  • Restoration

3 Reasons Why A Quick Response And Pretesting Matter 

1. Mitigation


Rapid response is the key to a critical mitigation strategy. When a disaster occurs, your company does not want to wait around while more damage happens. It is not uncommon for water damage to lead to mold development. Therefore, it is necessary to call a mitigation crew immediately after the crisis occurs, allowing ample time for the correction of minor issues, like holes.


2. Salvage

Pretesting is vital to the claims process because it helps companies determine the salvageability of affected items. Rather than throwing away every piece of equipment or merchandise, a mitigation company will test things to see if mold or other contaminants have made the product unsavable. By separating the salvageable from the not, a company only files a claim for the truly lost items, reducing the cost of the claim.

3. Restoration

Rapid response and pretesting are pivotal to the restoration of a facility. Through quick intervention, a remediation crew can salvage a significant portion of a property and its materials, and through pretesting, the company ensures that only devastated items receive a replacement.
While disasters are devastating for business owners, it is crucial to remain vigilant about contacting a remediation specialist. Rapid response and pretesting play a significant role in the overall costs of an insurance claim, meaning that the sooner a company addresses the disaster, the more likely it is to save money and mitigate potential risks of premium hikes.

How To Stay Open During a Pandemic

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Image of commercial office Keep your business open safely in Layton, UT.

Businesses, schools, and organizations around the world have closed their doors to limit coronavirus exposure and to thoroughly clean their buildings before employees and customers return. However, it isn't possible for all businesses to survive shutting down. Additionally, as things begin opening up, any company that remains closed could lose valuable business to their competitors.

How To Keep Your Business Open Safely

Instead of closing their doors, many business owners have taken some or all of the following steps to prevent spreading the virus:

  • Training employees to use proper handwashing techniques
  • Improving housekeeping habits
  • Appropriately disinfecting and cleaning all surfaces
  • Encouraging social distancing


These efforts can go a long way toward slowing the spread of the virus, but they don't encompass all of the necessary coronavirus cleanup steps.

What To Do If Your Business Is Exposed

There's still a lot that researchers and scientists don't know about the virus. For example, it is known that the virus exists on surfaces, but it isn't known how long it survives. Additionally, there are many variables that affect the virus's ability to survive and pass from one person to another. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend taking decisive action when an ill person enters your business. The CDC recommends identifying all areas used by the ill person and keeping those areas clear for at least 24 hours. After this amount of time, professional cleaning and disinfecting technicians can begin to do their work.

Why It's Important To Hire Professionals


There are some suggestions for completing covid-19 cleanup efforts on your own, but it's best to hire professionals for this job. This is because professionals have access to FDA-approved disinfectants, personal protective equipment, and the specialized training needed to avoid tracking the virus outside of the affected area. Without these resources and education, it's possible to increase coronavirus exposure instead of preventing it.

When To Turn Cleanup Over to Professionals


There are plenty of messes that could be handled by a company's in-house custodial staff. When it comes to coronavirus cleanup, however, it's best to work with qualified professionals. As a business owner or manager in Layton, UT, your top priorities should include those steps recommended by the CDC.

4 Common Water Issues in Commercial Buildings

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial carpet damaged with water Commercial water damage in Layton, UT.

From leaking pipes to a run-of-the-mill toilet backup, there are myriad ways that unwanted water can enter your Layton, UT, building. Addressing these problem areas promptly is key to minimizing damage and stress. Here are four of the most common sources of water-related trouble faced by commercial properties.

Four Common Sources of Water Issues in Commercial Properties. 


1. Broken Equipment or Appliances


While appliances such as water heaters and dishwashers boost workplace comfort and convenience, they can also malfunction and lead to water issues. If your workplace is home to equipment or appliances that utilize water, regular inspections and maintenance are key to preventing a glitch.


2. A Sewer Line or Toilet Backup


There are a variety of ways that your property’s sewer line or one of its toilets can become backed up. In the event that either happens, it’s imperative to resolve the problem quickly and safely. The water from these type of problems often contains bacteria and other toxins that are generally best handled by an experienced water damage mitigation company.


3. Leaking Pipes


A pipe break isn’t the only way that pipes can unleash water on your workplace or other commercial building. Leaks can take a variety of forms and derive from a plethora of places. If you detect a decrease in water pressure or hear dripping from behind the walls, for example, it may indicate that you have a leaking pipe.


4. A Faulty Sprinkler System


Your commercial property’s sprinkler system provides valuable peace of mind. If a fire starts, it will be there to suppress the blaze. If it’s poorly maintained, however, or if it’s simply outmoded, it may malfunction and give your building an unwanted shower.


Leaking pipes, backed-up toilets, and broken equipment are just four of the ways that water can enter your Layton, UT, premises. In the event that a water issue does arise, remember to act promptly, keep a cool head, and consult a professional cleanup company as needed to get your business back on its feet promptly.

4 Tips From the CDC for Protecting Employees From COVID-19

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Image of coronavirus with orange letters stating Here to help SERVPRO is here to help with coronavirus

Protecting your Layton, UT, employees from coronavirus exposure is an important step toward slowing the spread of the virus and limiting the impact of the virus on your company finances. While there's still a lot to learn about the virus and how to control it, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, offer several suggestions for keeping your employees as safe as possible.


Encourage Sick Employees to Stay Home


One of the first, and most effective, strategies for reducing coronavirus exposure is implementing flexible sick leave policies that are in line with public health guidelines. These policies should allow employees to stay home with sick family members and should not require notes from healthcare providers. It is likely that employees will need more sick time than usual.


Be Alert to Potential Symptoms


The CDC recommends separating any employees with coughs and shortness of breath from others in the workplace. Those employees should be sent home, and appropriate steps must be taken according to coronavirus cleanup protocols issued by the CDC.


Emphasize Personal Hygiene at Work


Employers should provide tissues, hand sanitizers, and soap and water, so employees can frequently wash their hands after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces. Access to hand-cleaning stations must be increased throughout the building.


Schedule Regular Environmental Cleaning


Commercial cleanup professionals are working to purchase the recommended disinfectants and personal protective gear to complete COVID-19 cleanup steps without increasing the risk of exposure. Business owners should be sure that cleanup professionals have consistent access to all surfaces that get touched in the workplace. In some cases, employees should be provided with disposable wipes throughout the day to target high traffic areas.

As the country learns more about limiting coronavirus exposure, employers can take steps to keep their employees safe. Follow recommendations from the CDC to limit the spread of the virus and decrease related risks within your business.

Prepare Your Workplace for Fire-Related Emergencies

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO trucks on standby ready when the call comes in. SERVPRO is prepared to take action in Layton, UT.

Emergencies happen every day in commercial properties around the country, so it's important to be as prepared as possible before your Layton, UT, buildings are affected. Whether you spot flames caused by a short in an extension cord or a lightning strike has made the building unsafe, you need a thorough emergency plan in place with a specific routine outlined for each fire drill and evacuation practice.

Commercial Property Fires Are More Common Than You Think

It's easy to become comfortable in office spaces or rental buildings. Unfortunately, statistics gathered by fire protection professionals show that it's never good to become complacent; on average, 3,340 office properties in the United States experienced fires. The most common causes of fire in the workplace include:

  • Malfunctioning electrical equipment or wires
  • Improper handling of flammable chemicals
  • Unprotected open flames
  • Carelessness when disposing of cigarette butts and matches
  • Inappropriate use of space heaters


Although fire prevention should be the responsibility of everyone who lives or works in your commercial properties, it's up to you to be sure you have the proper trainings and procedures in place.

A Safety Committee Is the Key to Successful Evacuations

As you create a fire drill and evacuation plan, begin by putting together a safety committee. This group of people will lead their teams in trainings, drills, and emergency evacuations. Ideally, these drills should take place every three months or more frequently. Next, post evacuation plans where all employees and renters can refer to and become familiar with them. Display contact information for emergency response teams and local storm and fire damage mitigation crews conveniently.

Don't Overestimate Employee Preparedness

If you've put these plans in place already, you may believe the people in your buildings are familiar with your work. Sadly, you may be surprised if you asked an employee to point out the exit doors. It's also pretty common for office furniture has been placed in front of an emergency exit! Take action today to make sure you conduct a successful fire drill every three months.

How a Fire Damage Estimate Is Made

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Window frame and wall damaged with soot and smoke. Fire damage in Layton, UT.

No business owner wants to imagine a devastating fire in one of their commercial properties. If your building in Layton, UT, catches fire, you may be overwhelmed by the amount of work needed to get it back to normal. Hiring a fire restoration company that specializes not only in providing a clear estimate but also the bulk of the restoration services can simplify the cleanup process.

Fire Damage Estimate


Inspection

When technicians first arrive at your building, in addition to surveying the central location that contains the most fire damage, they inspect every area that could have been affected by the fire:

  • Windows
  • Roof
  • Crawlspace
  • Basement


When they find damage that needs repair, they make note of it so that they can include it in the overall cost. If your restoration company is equipped to handle all the repairs itself, the technicians can get started on the cleanup pretty quickly. Otherwise, they may have a system in place to coordinate with outside contractors.


Distribution


Many types of repairs can be needed after a commercial fire. You want to be assured that the people working on your building are experts in the specific tasks they are completing. The restoration company documents the work that needs to be done and distributes the assignments among its various teams. By choosing a company that handles all or most of the repairs in house, you can expect a lower estimate than if you have to bring in qualified specialists from outside the company.


Insurance


Another benefit about streamlining your repair process with just one company is that the technicians can communicate directly with your insurance company on your behalf. Rather than having to compile several estimates from different places, you have one report that contains everything. An online reporting system for each claim where both you and your adjuster can access it whenever it's needed makes the process even easier.


You hope that you never have to deal with fire damage in your commercial property. Having one company to handle the whole restoration process can make coming up with a comprehensive, affordable estimate easier.

Temporarily Fix Your Wind-Damaged Roof

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

Hail hitting on top of roof during storm.  Hail during a heavy storm can damage your roof and cause further damage if not fixed quickly.

High winds can cause considerable harm to your business’s building. What should you do after discovering a roof leak as a result of wind damaged roof? It can take days to weeks to get a roofer out to complete repairs. A compromised structure may lead to additional water damage repairs needed. Here are three steps to take to temporarily keep ongoing inclement weather from causing any more unnecessary destruction.

3 Steps to Temporarily Fix Your Wind-Damaged Roof And Avoid Further Damage



1. Inspect the Damage

The first action is to inspect the damage. You will need to get onto the roof safely by using a sturdy ladder. Locate the source of the roof leak. The cause may be obvious, like a visible hole, or you may have to examine things more closely. Look for areas where water may be flowing over sections of missing or damaged shingles.

2. Patch Holes

Plywood can be easily cut to cover any holes. Cut pieces large enough that your patch will extend several inches beyond the hole on every side. Then you can use roofing nails or deck screws to attach the plywood to the existing structure.

3. Cover the Surface

Large, durable tarps can be used over the patched holes and areas where missing shingles are discovered. Use the thickest tarps available. For this type of temporary fix to be effective, be certain that the tarping material goes over the roof’s peak.

Tarps should be pulled tightly and secured around the entire perimeter to ensure they don’t blow away or allow rainwater to be seep underneath. Rope or cord can be used to hold the material down, or you may choose to nail the tarps to the building’s fascia board.

Temporary roof repairs can last from days to weeks, buying you the necessary time before a permanent, professional repair can be completed on your roof leak. Safely following the steps outlined can help mitigate any additional storm damage to your business in Layton, UT.

Basic First Aid for Burn Care

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Window and wall damaged with fire, covered in soot and smoke. This window suffered severe fire damage in Layton, UT.

When your Layton, Utah, business suffers a fire, fire damage isn’t your only concern. People may be injured, and you may have to contend with first aid on the spot while waiting for help. But what kind of aid can you provide for burns, and how can you tell a minor burn from a major burn?

Aid for burns


Minor Burns

Minor burns may look no worse than a sunburn. They’re usually mildly reddened, with some blistering and pain. To qualify as a minor burn, the burn should be no more than 3 inches in diameter. While it’s best to seek professional medical care, initial emergency burn first aid for minor burns involves:

• Using a cold wet compress or cool water to reduce the temperature of the burned area
• Quickly getting rid of any clothing or tight jewelry that may compress or abrade the area
• Using lotion to soothe, preferably something water-based with aloe
• Covering the wound with a bandage; keep it loose and use sterile gauze
• Being careful not to apply enough pressure to break blisters
• Providing pain relief with over-the-counter meds as needed

Major Burns

Major burns cause deep traumatic harm, and usually make the skin crisped or leathery. Some patches may appear black, brown, or white char. Major burns are larger than 3 inches, and can be fatal. Steps you should take include:

• Immediately calling 911
• Moving the victim away from the source of the burn or fire damage
• Checking for steady respiration; use CPR/rescue breathing if needed
• Cutting or pulling clothing and restrictive accessories away from burned areas
• Gently covering the burn area with a cool, damp cloth or bandage
• Elevating the burn area above heart level
• Monitoring for shock

Things Not to Do

Be careful that investigating fire damage doesn’t lead to personal injury for yourself. For burn victims, do not submerge major burns in water as this can lead to hypothermia. Never use anything grease-based to cover the burn; grease can seal the heat of the burn against the skin.

Situations That Warrant Protection Against Flood Damage

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professional clean up carpet with proper equipment after suffering water damage in commercial bulding. Water damage and clean up in commercial building in Layton, UT.

You take good care of your commercial property in Layton, Utah, so that weather and other problems don't damage your building. You properly insulate your pipes and you make sure that gutters are clean and your roof is in good condition. Certain events, however, can flood your building despite even the best preparations. When these situations occur, you may need to have flood insurance to cover the cost of recovery.

When do you need commercial flood insurance?



Prolonged Storms

If a prolonged storm hits your area, it doesn't really matter whether your gutters are clean. The storm and the continual rainfall that probably follows may cause certain problems for your property:

• Standing, contaminated water, especially on lower levels
• Damaged equipment and furniture
• Weakened walls, floors or ceilings

Your building may flood and sustain water damage when storms arise. If you have flood insurance, you have a way to pay for remediation services, even if the damage turns out to be extensive.

Melted Snow

Some storms don't cause damage at the time they occur but rather after their effects start to dissipate. When heavy snows start to melt, the runoff has to go somewhere. If there is too much of it or if it melts too quickly, it can flood your building. Your commercial insurance portfolio should contain policies that take this possibility into account.

Busted Dams

Some disasters have little to do with the weather and more to do with the weakening of structures made by humans. Levees and dams are built to control the flow of water and keep it from overtaking an area. When such a structure breaks, the water it releases goes everywhere, including your commercial building. Documenting the event as well as the damage it causes can help your insurance adjuster determine how much your policy should cover.

If you live in an area that floods regularly, regional law may require you to have flood insurance. Even if you don't, however, it's a good idea to have extra coverage just in case you need it.

Tenant and Owner Responsibilities After a Fire

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

Laboratory desks in university covered in soot and fire damage. Local University sufferes fire damage in Layton, UT.

Whether you've experienced an apartment fire, a commercial fire or a fire at a rented home in Layton, Utah, the effects can be devastating to both the tenant and the landlord. It may not be clear who is responsible when it comes to the fire damage. Depending on the circumstances, liability can be divided up very differently.

What are the Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities?



Landlord Responsibilities

Generally, the landlord is responsible for hiring the restoration company to repair structural damage after a business, house or apartment fire. Damage may include:

Structural damage to:
o Walls
o Floors
o Carpeting
o Pool Houses
o Sheds
Damage to fixtures and appliances:
o Cabinets
o Countertops
o Plumbing
o Electrical wiring
o Supplied appliances such as dishwashers and refrigerators

Tenant Responsibilities

In most cases, the tenant is responsible for any damage done to his or her personal property. The tenant will have to go to his or her insurance company to recover the loss of items such as:

• Clothing
• Furniture
• Computers
• TVs
• Tenant-owned appliances
• Video game consoles
• Musical instruments

Liability Claims

Sometimes, there is a question of who is liable for the damage. If the landlord is proved to be responsible (for instance, due to negligence regarding the property's electrical wiring), he can be made to pay for damage to the renters' personal belongings, wages lost, costs related to finding another place to stay, and more. Conversely, if the landlord can prove that the renter was somehow negligent, the renter may be responsible for any costs related to repairing the property. If the landlord is unable to prove this, he will be liable for any structural repair, as it's the landlord's responsibility to see to it that the property is in a livable condition.

Be Prepared

Whether you are a renter or a landlord who's suffered a commercial fire, apartment fire or house fire, you will need to make sure that you have immediately contacted your insurance company, have made a detailed list of any property that's been damaged, and taken pictures of any damage to the structure and property, as well as any evidence of negligence. That way you will be prepared for any subsequent questions from the insurance company, and ensure that you're only incurring cost for the fire damage that you're actually responsible for

Basic First Aid for Burn Care

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

 Laboraty in a university has smoke damage due to fire. This University suffered severe fire damage in Layton, UT,

When your Layton, UT business suffers a fire, fire damage isn’t your only concern. People may be injured, and you may have to contend with first aid on the spot while waiting for help. But what kind of aid can you provide for burns, and how can you tell a minor burn from a major burn?

The difference between minor and major burns.



Minor Burns

Minor burns may look no worse than a sunburn. They’re usually mildly reddened, with some blistering and pain. To qualify as a minor burn, the burn should be no more than 3 inches in diameter. While it’s best to seek professional medical care, initial emergency burn first aid for minor burns involves:

• Using a cold wet compress or cool water to reduce the temperature of the burned area
• Quickly getting rid of any clothing or tight jewelry that may compress or abrade the area
• Using lotion to soothe, preferably something water-based with aloe
• Covering the wound with a bandage; keep it loose and use sterile gauze
• Being careful not to apply enough pressure to break blisters
• Providing pain relief with over-the-counter meds as needed

Major Burns

Major burns cause deep traumatic harm, and usually make the skin crisped or leathery. Some patches may appear black, brown, or white char. Major burns are larger than 3 inches, and can be fatal. Steps you should take include:

• Immediately calling 911
• Moving the victim away from the source of the burn or fire damage
• Checking for steady respiration; use CPR/rescue breathing if needed
• Cutting or pulling clothing and restrictive accessories away from burned areas
• Gently covering the burn area with a cool, damp cloth or bandage
• Elevating the burn area above heart level
• Monitoring for shock

Things Not to Do

Be careful that investigating fire damage doesn’t lead to personal injury for yourself. For burn victims, do not submerge major burns in water as this can lead to hypothermia. Never use anything grease-based to cover the burn; grease can seal the heat of the burn against the skin.

First Aid for Toilets

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded toilet This toilet flooded in Layton, UT.

The last thing you want to explain to your business's stakeholders in Layton, UT, is where an intolerable smell is coming from. That's why proper sewer cleanup is a must, whether it's from something as quotidian as a flooded toilet or a colossal wastewater geyser caused by municipal sewer backup. Just remember these simple principles:

• Assess the situation
• Secure the area
• Take action

Keep A Level Head during Sewage Cleanup


Every sewage issue needs a careful analysis, even if performing one is unsavory. Determine which of the following three classes best describes your spill:
1. Major hazard: unknown water sources, sewage backup and toilet overflow
2. Potential hazard: clean toilet overflow, soapy water and water with chemicals
3. Low risk: broken water pipes, clean water spills or malfunctioning fixtures

Complete Protection

After you know what you're dealing with, it's time to think about how to protect yourself and your stakeholders during the sewer cleanup process. These are steps that you should probably feel comfortable with doing yourself, such as marking the perimeter of the affected area with warning signage. However, try not to do anything that feels unsafe. Water cleanup professionals near you should be able to assist or advise in more extreme situations.

Time To Act

After you have identified the problem and everything is cordoned appropriately, then it's time to take cleanup measures. Of course, this process differs depending on what type of water problem you have. It's important to remember that, although cleaning up all the water is a good first step, it's rarely the end of your moisture removal.

Situations requiring sewer cleanup in Layton, UT, are potential losses for your company. The best way to mitigate those losses is usually to take immediate and appropriate action. Remember to identify the problem, secure the affected area and have all necessary cleanup measures performed. Once the immediate problems are out of the way, you can then focus on any communications or secondary cleaning that needs to be performed.

How Can Water Mitigation Procedures Minimize Water Damage?

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Water loss in a Layton,UT building.

For a business owner, there is nothing better than when things run smoothly at work. Having good employees, loyal customers and a sound property gives peace of mind. What happens to that peace when you suddenly find yourself with a pipe burst cleanup mess to take care of? Who do you call in Layton, UT to help you set things right?

What You May Need Help With After a Flood

Everyone can use some help sometimes, and a supply line leaking into the workspaces of your building is one of those times. Employee manpower is helpful, but you may need water mitigation professionals to help with the following:

  • Water cleanup and extraction
  • Assessment of structural damage
  • Industrial fans and equipment to help dry things out faster
  • Determining what can be salvaged
  • Sanitizing and decontaminating surfaces as needed

Can Water Mitigation Minimize Damage

If the pipe burst cleanup entails standing clean water, then extraction and a thorough drying can prevent worse damage, and common cleaning practices may be enough. A supply line leaking slowly in a hidden spot, on the other hand, may initially be clean water, but if it sits or leaks for a prolonged period, it can spur the growth of mold and bacteria that may require professional help to clean it up.

Carpets and flooring need to be dried out immediately if there is any hope of saving them. Sheetrock and other structural materials may be saturated, especially if the broken pipe is in the ceiling or sprinkler system. Professionals can help make the determination as to whether they can be saved. Residual odors and dampness may be eradicated with dehumidifiers and ozone machines.
When a commercial enterprise in Layton, UT, encounters water damage, it can be a rough break. With quick and professional assistance to take care of the pipe burst cleanup and restoration however, it can feel “Like it never even happened.”

Keeping Your Business Safe From A Thunderstorm

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

If you are suffering from Storm Damage after a Thunderstorm contact SERVPRO of Layton, UT.

From March to October each year, thunderstorms slash across the United States with a devastating mix of lightning, hail, tornadoes, and wind. Common and dangerous even in Layton, UT, storms can blow trees down, cause power outages, create flash floods, and damage buildings. You can protect your business by preparing before a torrential rainstorm hits.

Keep Your Business Safe From A Thunderstorm  

Early Steps in Preparation

Preparing for a potential rain storm and high winds can help prevent possible damage to your business. Taking the following precautions can help you protect yourself and your employees when the huge winds blow.

  • Keep trees and shrubs clipped back to prevent winds from breaking pieces off and sending them like pieces of shrapnel against the building.
  • Consider installing a lightning rod or whole building surge protector to prevent power outages from lightning strikes.
  • Check the roof for damaged areas that could be ripped off easily; reinforce these areas if necessary.
  • Clean and maintain gutters and downspouts to prevent water backup and potential flooding.

After the Warning Comes

Once a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, seek shelter in a designated room within your business. Make yourself and your employees comfortable by providing a light source. If you can hear the roar of thunder, wait at least 30 minutes before leaving the safe room. Here are a few additional tips for weathering the storm:

  • Keep employees away from glass structures such as windows and skylights to prevent serious injury.
  • Secure window shutters to prevent windows from shattering.
  • Tie down large items that could be hurled against the building by heavy winds.
  • Secure doors to door frames with specially designed bolts.
  • Stay away from water during the storm to prevent electrical shocks.

Following the Blustery Storm

After the rain storm subsides in Layton, UT, walk the perimeter of your building to check for damage. Since the roofing of your business is especially vulnerable, consider having a storm restoration team check for problems before another storm hits. Consider asking them to check for damaged trees as well. Mother Nature doesn’t always have to win if you are prepared.

How To Handle Partial Fire Loss

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

There are simple steps you can follow to handle partial fire loss in your commercial property.

If a fire damages but does not completely destroy your commercial property in Layton, UT, you will likely need to claim partial losses. While you are documenting evidence of fire loss and smoke damage, you should be sure to look for hidden damage and try to avoid delays. Here are three ways to handle partial loss due to fire.

3 Ways to Handle Partial Fire Loss

  1. Document all evidence. It is important to take photographs or videos that document the damage caused by a fire whether the extent of the damage is complete or partial. Your documentation should be even more detailed if the damage is partial to enable you to successfully file a claim.
  1. File a timely claim. Don't let the fact that your losses are only partial delay your filing following a fire. If you have business insurance coverage that covers fire at your commercial property, you are entitled to compensation for damaged items that need to be replaced. Be sure to monitor your claim in the process to make sure that your insurer takes your partial damage as seriously as major fire loss.
  1. Obtain compensation. You should obtain full and fair compensation for any losses that you suffer, however partial. If you do not obtain compensation for the full extent of partial damage, you should follow up on the claim you filed with your insurance adjuster. Sometimes partial claims are considered less important than total loss and are left to languish. You should try to complete the process as efficiently as possible.

Make sure that you provide all of the necessary documentation and prevent insurers from delaying compensation on account of the fact that your damages were only partial. Whether you are dealing with extensive or partial fire loss at your commercial property in Layton, UT, a certified fire restoration company can help you reopen for business as soon as possible.

Safety Practices of Mold Remediation Experts

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Wearing proper personal protective equipment lowers the risk of exposure to mold

If you discover mold in your commercial building in Layton, UT, you will probably need professional mold remediation services. To protect everyone in the vicinity of the problem and keep the mold contained, they may employ certain procedures. Here are some safety practices you can expect to see when they arrive to mitigate the problem.

Personal Protective Equipment

Before entering an area that has a mold problem, technicians don personal protective equipment to keep it from getting on their skin or in their eyes or respiratory system. Some of the items they wear include:

  • Disposable gloves made of latex or other impervious material
  • Tyvek suit
  • Goggles
  • Face mask with respirator
  • Disposable hair and shoe covers

Wearing proper PPE lowers the risk of exposure to mold. It also affords specialists the opportunity to contain the mold once they leave the main area and step into the containment area to disrobe.

Containment Area

To protect the parts of the building that don't have mold growth from spores released during the cleanup process, experts set up a containment area that surrounds the section where the problem lies. When they leave the space being treated, they can take off their PPE before walking through the rest of the building, leaving the spores behind. The containment area is usually sealed off from HVAC vents so that the spores released into the air don't escape and travel throughout the building.

Filters

Air filters can also be used to prevent the spread of mold. HEPA filters can be particularly successful at trapping mold spores, thus reducing the concentration of fungus and improving air quality in your building. When experts treat your building for mold, they may be able to recommend a good filter to install to help remedy the current issue and prevent future problems.

It takes more than just removal of the visible mold to protect your building and its inhabitants from exposure. Protective measures are necessary not only during the remediation process but also for ongoing prevention.

How Does Water Lead to Damages After a Fire?

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Fire and water damage in a South Weber, UT building

Sources That May Affect Your Property

Fire damage may seem like one of your top concerns after the flames have been put out, but you'll also need to address a fair amount of water damage. When a fire first strikes, most business owners are primarily concerned about the well-being of their staff, customers, and property. Once the smoke clears, however, a period of uncertainty and panic may settle in. Fortunately, fire remediation experts can help you navigate the cleanup and restoration process. There are several sources of water that may affect your property.

  1. Sprinkler systems
  2. Fire hoses
  3. Burst pipes
  4. Sewer backups

Sprinkler Systems

If you have a sprinkler system installed in your building, the heat, flames, or smoke may trigger the emergency system and send 15 to 25 gallons of water per minute into your business. That water can cause a lot of damage. 

Fire Hoses

As the firefighters work to put out flames, they may spray a lot of water at high levels of pressure through a fire hose. That water often floods the building, running down stairways, flooding rooms, and affecting walls and ceilings. Equipment and furnishings are often harmed more by the water than by fire damage

Burst Pipes

Another common culprit of water damage after a fire is the burst pipe. As temperature levels rise as a result of the fire, the building's piping system experiences a lot of pressure. The heated pipes may warp, break, and burst. Sometimes pipes are damaged by falling debris. These bursting pipes force a lot of water into the building, causing flood damages. 

Sewer Backups

If the sewer system line is damaged by the fire or falling debris, you could have an even messier problem on your hands. Sewer backflows often happen for other reasons, but these disasters are an increased risk during fires. 

Fire damage isn't your only concern after a fire. You may also face a lot of water damage. Work closely with South Weber, UT, fire remediation professionals to get trouble under control and your business back to normal after a fire.

How To Handle a Flood That Affects Two Floors

12/31/2018 (Permalink)

You see a water stain on the ceiling of your office building. You may be tempted to dismiss it as it doesn’t seem to be making a big mess or affecting anything other than the aesthetic of the room. If the leak is under a restroom, however, you could be dealing with sewer damage, and that’s not something you want to ignore. When a toilet overflows in your building in Fruit Heights, UT the water often will seep through to the floor below. The following steps can help you remedy the situation.

1. Make Your Calls

Consult your insurance policy and call your broker to see if damage from toilet overflow is covered under your package. This can help you pay for repairs. Next, call a certified sewage company that specializes in sewer cleanup. They can help you understand the process of mitigation, including how long it will probably take and how much it will likely cost.

2. Expect Some Demolition

Sewer damage is caused by Category 3 water, which means that not only are the materials it touches saturated and likely warped but they are also contaminated. Expect the flooring from the upper floor and the ceiling from the lower floor to be torn out. You may also lose some drywall and insulation, depending on how extensive the flooding is. Of course, the technicians will replace these materials, but it’s going to look worse before it looks better, and it’s good to be prepared for that.

3. Keep Area Clear

Because the water from the flooded toilet is contaminated, it is imperative that you and your employees steer clear of the area. Don’t let skin come into contact with contaminated materials. Leave the sewage extraction and cleanup to the experts.

A leak on a ceiling may look like a small problem, but it can be indicative of a hidden mess. By hiring specialists who are certified in sewer damage cleanup, you can rest assured that your building will be properly restored.

Differentiating the 3 Levels of Category 3 Water Damage

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

With broken pipes, flood water, and overflowing toilets wreaking havoc in commercial buildings across the country, it may seem nearly impossible to classify the various types of water damage into any semblance of order. However, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification saw the need for a classification system and created the standard that insurance companies and restoration professionals now use. The IICRC sets forth three levels of water damage, with Category 3 being revealed as the most dangerous of the trio.


Category 3. 


Water damage in a business or commercial building caused by contaminated liquid that may pose a health risk to anyone that encounters it is often referred to as black water. The flooding is often caused by:

• Sewage backup
• Toilet overflow
• River flood water

Because of the great difference in types and severity of the contaminated black water floods, Category 3 floods have also been divided into three separate levels of danger.

Level 1.

Often limited to a small area, the contaminated water typically has a very limited exposure. An example could be a single toilet backup in a restroom that could quickly be cleaned.

Level 2.

This contaminated water originates inside the building, but the damaged area is frequently much larger than level 1. This type of flooding can be deep enough to taint porous and non-porous items, and the building structure may also be affected. A water damage restoration crew is often called to help with the extensive cleanup.

Level 3.

Considered the most contaminated type of water, this level of black water frequently includes waste from outside sources such as overflowing sewage lines due to flooding rivers, broken dams, or ocean surges. A water damage specialty team is almost always called to aid in the difficult cleanup process for this type of flooding because the technicians have the proper tools and training to handle the job.

If contaminated water floods Layton, UT, contact a restoration team to help answer questions about safety concerns. The professionals may have all the equipment needed to safely handle any Category 3 flood water and get the building open quickly.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROlaytonkaysville.com.

Why Is Water Caused by a Storm Considered Black?

6/16/2018 (Permalink)

When there is a flood in your commercial building in Layton, UT, you can see the water that fills your building is clearly not black. Yet, when you hear the commercial storm damage restoration team talk, they keep mentioning black water. What does this mean? The term "black" does not necessarily have anything to do with the color of the waters. Instead, it refers to the contamination level. Flooding can fall into three categories:

• Category One: Clean
• Category Two: Gray
• Category Three: Black

Each denotes the level of contamination in the water with clean being uncontaminated and black being highly contaminated. Floods caused by a storm are considered category three.


Run-Off.


Storm-caused water damage may be contaminated because it includes river run off. As the storm rages on, the rivers may rise above their banks and mix with the rest of the water. This excess moisture can find its way onto your property. Because the water may have traveled over fields full of pesticides and other harsh chemicals, it may be contaminated. Some rivers have naturally occurring microbes and spores that could also affect the categorization of your flooding.


Sewage.


Sometimes the floods causing water damage to your building are not only full of chemicals but also feces, sewage and other microbes. These unwanted additions to the water comes when the sewage backs up. This often happens during a storm because of the rising water table. When the water table is too high, the sewage cannot go where it normally does. Instead, it has to come up through your pipes and into your building.

When the flooding in your building is categorized as black water, it simply means the water could be full of microbes, feces and other potentially dangerous chemicals. This type of water damage has to be taken care of quickly and carefully if you want to avoid maximum damage to your commercial building.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROlaytonkaysville.com.

Restoring Your Davis County Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

This Davis County home's basement flooded due secondary water being turned on.

Flooding and water damage events at Davis County 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, we work 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 facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and 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 business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville

SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

For Immediate Service in Davis County, Call SERVPRO

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

Davis County Residents: We provide immediate service day or night!

SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in Davis County. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service
  • Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
  • Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
  • A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
  • Locally Owned and Operated
  • Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 – 801-298-4272

For Immediate Service in Davis County, Call SERVPRO

Whether your Davis County home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

  • Water Damage Restoration
  • Fire Damage Restoration
  • Mold Remediation
  • Storm Damage Restoration
  • Cleaning Services
  • Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your Davis County commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

  • Commercial Water Damage Restoration
  • Commercial Fire Damage Restoration

An IICRC Certified Firm

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

About SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville

SERVPRO of Layton/Kaysville 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Simple Ways To Troubleshoot a Commercial Irrigation System

4/9/2018 (Permalink)

Sometimes sprinkler systems fail, and when they do, it can be a huge problem. Have you ever driven by a commercial property and seen water spewing from a broken sprinkler pipe in Layton, UT? Sometimes the water pressure pushes the liquid 8 or 9 feet into the air. However, the real problem lies in the water once it returns to the ground. Standing water next to a building from a broken irrigation system can soak into the building’s foundation or basement and cause flooding. To prevent irrigation problems, try these troubleshooting tips.


Broken Supply Lines


Areas covered by each sprinkler are called zones. When a zone works inefficiently or incorrectly, water problems can occur. Here are a few things to look for when a sprinkler system fails.

• Electrical problems due to the timer, solenoid, valve, or wire failure
• Seeping water due to split joints or cracked pipes
• Gushing water due to broken sprinkler heads
• Timer failure due to corroded wires or poor connections


Cracked Supply Lines


Two of the most common irrigation problems are tree growth and excessive traffic. Trees have huge root systems that can attack and damage supply lines by forcing themselves into the plastic, causing breaks and filling the pipe with roots. Once the pipe cracks, water pressure can become a problem.

Foot traffic, bicycles, or carriage strollers can be a danger to underground plumbing lines because the extra weight can compress soil and crack tubes. The more traffic and the greater the weight, the more chance irrigation system joints will crack or pipes may be crushed. If broken pipes cause a flood, contact a water damage cleanup team that can quickly remove the water and get the building open again.


Repaired Supply Lines


The goal of a commercial irrigation system is to have a dependable and efficient watering arrangement. Troubleshooting the system and catching potential problems before they can become catastrophic failures can save financial resources, water, and customer complaints.

For more information, please visit us at .http://www.SERVPROlaytonkaysville.com