Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Saving Carpet After Water Damage - PuroClean
A pipe breaks and water is everywhere. The policyholder calls the insurance agent and the restoration process begins. Timing is important. The sooner the policyholder makes the call, the quicker the response will be, and in most cases, the lower the total costs of restoration.
Though many issues can be discovered involving water damage, this article focuses on just one - the carpet. Of all the dollars spent on property claims, floor covering is by far the most expensive category. If we can save a large percentage of water-damaged floor coverings, the savings would be significant on a national scale.
CAUTIONING CUSTOMERS
As with any property damage, health and safety is of primary importance. The customer should be cautioned about slipping and falling on wet flooring, electrical hazards, contaminated water, and falling debris such as drywall or acoustical ceiling tiles. Some customers attempt to extract the water themselves. While this can be of some benefit, a shop vacuum, towels, and ceiling fans are no replacement for professional extraction and drying equipment.
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE
Quick response is critical. The longer the unwanted water is allowed to remain, the more likely the carpeting will be permanently damaged. Regardless of the hour, the mitigation process should begin without delay. It is very important to get a professional mitigator involved as soon as possible. The very best opportunity to save carpet (and other items) is to have professionals on site immediately.
CONTAIN AND CONTROL
The initial phase of the mitigation process includes addressing safety issues and employing contain-and-control procedures. Carpet is a multi-layered installation with a big sponge (padding) under it. Standing water must be pumped or extracted to prevent migration of water into adjoining areas and sub-surfaces. Professional moisture meters are used to determine the exact location and extent of water damage. The source of the water will determine whether the carpet and padding can be saved.
DETERMINING CATEGORY OF LOSS
The first step professional mitigation companies take is determining the category of loss as follows:
Category-1 ("clean" water)
A Category-1 loss is from a clean water source and has not come in contact with materials that carry a health concern for the occupants. This would include broken water pipes, leaking hot water heaters, tub or sink overflows, etc. With Category-1 type losses, professionals can extract water from the carpet and pad and dry them both, in place! This dramatically reduces the cost of the claim and helps restoration efforts move faster.
Category-2 ("grey" water)
Category-2 is not a clean water source since it contains contaminates with the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if swallowed or contacted. This would typically include overflow from washing machines or dishwashers, toilet overflows with no solid matter, broken aquariums, sump pump failures, etc. Because of the additional contamination, this type of loss requires the replacement of the padding, but the carpet itself is usually salvageable. If, however, a Category-2 loss is not treated promptly (generally within 48 hours) it will "degrade" to a Category-3.
Category-3 ("black" water)
A Category-3 is water that is grossly contaminated -- containing pathogenic or other harmful agents and materials. Examples of this type of loss include sewage; toilet backflows that originate beyond the toilet trap (regardless of color); all forms of flooding from seawater, rivers, or streams; rising ground water; and water entering the structure from hurricanes, storms, or other weather-related events.
This water condition is of primary concern when it comes to the health and safety of the occupants. It should be treated seriously! Policyholders should not expose themselves to Category-3 water. If, for some reason it is necessary, then they should be cautioned and reminded to wear gloves, shoe protection, and other items to protect themselves. Mitigation professionals, however, are expecially trained to handle this type of loss and are the best guarantee of property containment.
Industry standards require that carpet and pad that have been contaminated with black water must be bagged, removed from the structure, and disposed of in an appropriate location. This also applies to other absorbent materials that have come in contact with black water such as textiles, drywall, etc. Professional restoration companies understand this and operate accordingly.
Property training is the key. Every water damage situation is different. There are varying circumstances that determine whether the carpet can or should be saved. Its age, condition, the type of installation and quality of material are all factors that need to be considered. The goal of a restoration company is to savfe and "restore." Restoration saves money because higher replacement costs are avoided. Home owners also return to their normal lives more quickly with successful restoration.
Mitigation professionals have the training and knowledge to evaluate each situation and to determine the best course of action. They are also trained to communicate well with policyholders, agents, and adjusters to insure that everyone understands the restoration process and proper procedures involved.
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If you need any assistance regarding the entire process of handling your water damage concerns, please call 440-748-7876.
NE Ohio's "Paramedics of Property Damage"
Monday, January 25, 2010
With Frozen Pipes Thawing and Snow Melting, PuroClean and Area Plumbers Scramble to Fix Water-Related Issues
Many calls PuroClean has received have been busted water lines to attic crawl spaces and basement areas. Some property disasters left behind over five feet of water.
Area residents have been put in a position to call their respective public service workers to come and shut off their water after problems with pipes have been discovered.
Melting snow is an annual formality facing the Northestern area of Ohio. Sometimes this can affect properties lacking the foundation support to with-hold the added amounts of water that melting brings. A lot of back-ups, leaks, etc. have been troubling many area property owners and even businesses.
If you have experienced any water-related property disaster please don't hesitate to contact a professional company. Time is of the essence with these circumstances and the longer you wait the more you jeopardize the structural integrity of your property.
PuroClean Professional Services provides 24-hour emergency property disaster services.
Call 866-944-PURO (7876)
Monday, January 18, 2010
Ice Damming in Northeast Ohio
To prevent ice damming, the attic must be well ventilated. This will allow the roof to maintain a more uniform temperature by quickly removing any warm air that reaches the attic space. In addition, the ceiling must have an adequately sealed air and vapor barrier, and be well insulated to prevent excessive heat loss to the attic. Important techniques to employ include:
- Ensuring correct installation of insulation at eaves.
- Ensuring adequate airflow through attic eaves.
- Ensuring adequate ceiling insulation to keep warm air from rising to attic and through roof.
- Carefully sealing all ceiling penetrations (light fixtures etc.); to keep warm, moist air out of the attic.
If you have any questions, please contact us at 866-944-PURO (7876). We help restore property to its original state after property damage such as this occur.
http://www.purocleanproservices.com
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
PuroClean Plumber Referral Program in Northeast Ohio
We understand that referring a restoration provider to your customers is a reflection on you and your business. The foundation to any partnership is trust and commitment. That is why we developed our Plumber Partnership Program to formally pledge our commitment to building and maintaining a lasting relationship with you. It is our goal to become your preferred restoration resource any time your client experiences a water loss or mold threat to their property.
Through our exclusive Plumber Partnership Program, we promise to ensure customer satisfaction every time. We will respond, rescue and restore your customer’s property with the highest degree of professionalism, quality, integrity, and compassion. We will nurture our relationship and provide mutually-rewarding opportunities.
Our Pledge to Plumbers:
Your customers will save money. We can save your customers from 15-40% on damage costs. We specialize in stopping the problem with minimal disruption, and preventing further damage.
Our professional damage mitigation techniques and processes in the aftermath of a water emergency save not only replacement costs, but extenuating damage and repairs. We also provide a one-year guarantee on our workmanship and materials.
When it comes to property damage, we’ve got you covered…any time, day or night.
Call us after you have resolved issues including: broken pipes, broken water heaters, other water related damage.
Our services include:
- Water Removal Services
- Emergency Water Extraction
- Drying and Dehumidification
- Mold and Mildew Odor Removal and Elimination
- Carpet and Carpet Pad Restoration
- Carpet Cleaning, Deodorization, and Stain Removal
- Mold Remediation Services
- Professional Drying with the Latest Scientific Equipment
- Full Mold Remediation to include containment and removal of required materials
- Professional Deodorization
- Cleaning and Sanitizing of Structure, Fixtures, and Contents
- HEPA Air Filtration and Vacuuming
Please call us at 866-944-PURO (7876) to further discuss our plumber referral program and how you and your business can benefit financially.
How to Avoid Burst Pipes from Freezing Temperatures in Ohio
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to expose pipes to warmer air circulation.
• Wrap pipes in vulnerable places outside with heat tape, available at local hardware stores.
• Unhook hoses from outdoor faucets.
• If washing machine or water-using appliances are in an unheated area, turn off water supply to those machines if you're not using them.
• Shut off irrigation systems.
If you have any additional questions or concerns, please call PuroClean Professional Services at 866-944-PURO (7876). If you've been the victim of frozen pipes, we can help clean, prevent mold, and restore a property to its original state.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
PuroClean: Holiday Fire Prevention Tips for Ohio
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, holiday fires claim the lives of over 400 Americans, injure 1,650 more and cause over $990 million in damage each year. In Canada, holiday fires are reported to contribute significantly to the 50,000 total residential fires that the Canadian Safety Association reports are fought annually.
"The number of home fires rises noticeably around the holiday season, largely due to such things as increased use of candles and light strands," said George Cruz, Managing Partner for PuroClean Professional Services.
Cruz says that by adhering to the following Dos and Don'ts, individuals can be on their way to having a safe holiday season:
When caring for your tree:
DO: Select a fresh tree with green needles that are hard to pull back from the branches. Keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. When the tree becomes dry, discard it promptly.
DON'T: Place your tree near a heat source such as a fireplace or heat vent. Doing so will quickly dry out your tree and make it a fire hazard. Do not put up your tree too early or leave it up for longer than two weeks. Never put tree branches or needles in a fireplace or wood-burning stove.
When using holiday lights:
DO: Inspect your holiday lights each year for frayed wires, bare spots and broken or cracked sockets before putting them up. Be sure to only use lights that have been certified by an approved testing laboratory.
DON'T: Overload electrical outlets by connecting too many strands of lights. Unless the directions indicate it is safe, do not link more than three strands. Never leave holiday lights unattended.
When using candles:
DO: Use stable candle holders and place them where they cannot be easily knocked down. Also be sure that the holders themselves are non-flammable.
DON'T: Place hanging candles on a tree or near other evergreens. Also, keep burning candles away from other decorations and wrapping paper. When leaving the house, make sure that all candles have been extinguished.
For any additional questions regarding property damage contributed by water, fire, smoke, or mold, contact PuroClean Professional Services at 866-944-PURO (7876).
www.PuroCleanProServices.com
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
The Holiday Season Brings Added Fire Risks
According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires, with Thanksgiving the peak day of the entire year. Nearly all cooking fires start with the ignition of food or cooking oil. Other items normally found in a kitchen help feed the fire - such as cabinets, paper, plastic, and curtains. In 2006, U.S. fire departments responded to 112,500 home structure fires. These fires caused nearly $7 billion in direct property damage. Cooking fires accounted for 40% of all reported home fires. Twelve percent of the fires occurred when something flammable was left too close to cooking equipment.
The CDC and the National Fire Protection Association recommend:
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking. If you must leave the kitchen for any reason, turn off the stovetop.
• If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly. Remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you to check the food.
• Wear short, close fitting sleeves when cooking. Loose clothing can easily catch fire.
• Never use water to extinguish a cooking fire.
• If oil starts to boil, remove it from the heat source. Simply lowering the heat will not reduce the temperature fast enough.
• Be careful not to overfill pots with oil. You need room in the pan to add food. Overflowing oil can easily catch fire.
• If oil catches fire, use an oven mitt to carefully slide a lid over the pan to smother the fire.
• If oil has overflowed and is burning, get everyone out of the house and call the fire department from outside.
• Keep towels, bags, plastic, and food packaging away from flame and heat.
• Never cook when under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
• Install smoke alarms if a home does not have them.
• Test smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas trees (both real and artificial) are the first items ignited in an estimated 300 reported home structure fires per year.
The U.S. Fire Administration offers the following fire safety tips for homeowners:
• When decorating, be sure to use only lights rated for indoor use.
• Replace any lights that have worn, frayed, or broken cords.
• Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving the home or going to bed.
• Keep live trees moist by watering daily. Do not purchase a tree that is dry.
• Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source.
• Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles - dried out trees are highly flammable.
• Make sure artificial trees are fire retardant.
• Place the tree near an outlet to avoid running long extension cords.
• Do not burn a Christmas tree in a fireplace. They are practically explosive.
Candles around the home often invoke a warm holiday spirit, but they are a significant fire hazard - and a leading cause of residential fires! If you choose to set the mood with candles, use extreme caution.
The National Candle Association recommends:
• Always keep a burning candle within sight - never leave it unattended.
• Never burn a candle near anything that can catch fire.
• Always use a candleholder specifically designed for candles and place on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
• Make sure a candle is completely extinguished and is no longer glowing before leaving it.
• Never use a candle as a night light.
In the event a fire should occur, it is important for property owners to know what to do, what not to do, and who to contact once it is extinguished. PuroClean, known as The Paramedics of Property DamageTM, is a professional mitigation company specializing in property remediation after a home or commercial structure is damaged by fire and smoke. Fire, along with the resulting smoke and soot, can rapidly harm household items - even after the fire has been extinguished. It is imperative to seek help immediately from a professional restoration company such as PuroClean to prevent further damage.
Regardless of the circumstances - dealing with fire/smoke damage, water damage, or mold remediation - call us with questions/concerns.
Good luck and enjoy the holidays!
Northeast Ohio PuroClean Mold Remediation
PuroClean offers professional Mold Inspection, Mold Testing, and Mold Removal Estimates in the greater Cleveland & Akron metropolitan areas.
Call us toll free: (866) 944-PURO (7876) to schedule an appointment.
Professional Mold Inspection: PuroClean works with you to help determine the source of the moisture and how to correct the problem. PuroClean uses professional meters to detect moisture levels in the air (humidity) and in contents/structure. Addressing the moisture issue causing the mold problem is the most important step in the mold remediation process. PuroClean will provide you a detailed line-item mold removal estimate for consideration and possible review with your insurance company.Mold Testing: PuroClean will take several air and surface samples and submit them to an independent AIHA certified laboratory for mold analysis. A professional laboratory report will be provided to you detailing the mold (spore) type and count for each sampled surface and/or area. An outdoor air sample will be taken as well for reference. PuroClean will review the report with you in detail and answer any questions regarding the results.Mold Removal: Upon your acceptance of PuroClean’s mold removal estimate, certified technicians will:
· Contain the affected area(s) and place under negative pressure with HEPA filtration.
· Remove and/or clean the affected contents and structure as needed (Mold Remediation).
· Apply an anti-microbial agent (fungicide-biocide) to the affected area(s).
· Professionally dehumidify and dry the affected area(s) as needed.
· Submit complete job estimate, photos, and invoice directly to insurance company if applicable.
Prices:
· Professional Inspection & Mold Removal estimate preparation only: $135
· Professional Mold Testing, Inspection, and Mold Removal estimate preparation: $275
· Professional Mold Removal (Remediation) & Professional Drying (as needed): Varies by job
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Mold Inspections, Testing, and Removal
Call us toll free: (866) 944-PURO (7876) to schedule an appointment.
Professional Mold Inspection: PuroClean works with you to help determine the source of the moisture and how to correct the problem. PuroClean uses professional meters to detect moisture levels in the air (humidity) and in contents/structure. Addressing the moisture issue causing the mold problem is the most important step in the mold remediation process. PuroClean will provide you a detailed line-item mold removal estimate for consideration and possible review with your insurance company.
· Contain the affected area(s) and place under negative pressure with HEPA filtration.
· Remove and/or clean the affected contents and structure as needed (Mold Remediation).
· Apply an anti-microbial agent (fungicide-biocide) to the affected area(s).
· Professionally dehumidify and dry the affected area(s) as needed.
· Submit complete job estimate, photos, and invoice directly to insurance company if applicable.
Prices:
· Professional Inspection & Mold Removal estimate preparation only: $135
· Professional Mold Testing, Inspection, and Mold Removal estimate preparation: $275
· Professional Mold Removal (Remediation) & Professional Drying (as needed): Varies by job
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Homeowners: Quick Reaction Time is of the Essence During a Water Emergency
Less Than One Hour
• Moving water quickly spreads to other areas.
• Furniture may stain carpet permanently.
• Moisture-sensitive furniture may discolor.
• Paper goods are ruined.
One to 24 Hours
• Furniture delaminates or swells; legs can split.
• Pressed wood swells and disintegrates.
• Bacterial odor becomes apparent.
• Uncoated metal surfaces may tarnish.
• Normal household odors strengthen.
Two to Seven Days
• Mold and mildew may appear, accompanied by a musty odor.
• Musical instruments swell and warp.
• Drywall swells and disintegra
• Uncoated metal surfaces begin to rust.
• Door and window casings swell and distort or delaminate.
• Wood decking and studs begin to swell, warp, or split.
• Electronic components may malfunction.
• Occupants with respiratory problems or compromised immune systems can experience distress.
One Week and Beyond
• Mold and mildew may appear, accompanied by a musty odor.
• Wood components warp and split.
• Chemicals within wood dissolve, discolor, or destroy finishes.
• Claim costs escalate dramatically.
• Serious occupant health hazards may occur.
The dangers to a property and homeowner obviously begin to escalate the longer that water damage is not treated.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
The Details That Go Into Treating Water Damage to Properties in Cleveland & Akron
* Work authorization agreements are layed out in detail and then signed.
* Moisture meters detect and determines the extent of damage to the structure. All structure surfaces are analyzed including walls, ceilings, carpets, sub-flooring, crawl spaces, etc.
* Water is extracted if the scope of the damage calls for it.
* Pack-up any contents within the affected area if needed. Move and block up furniture within the affected area if needed.
* Chemical application to affected surfaces & contents using odor removals, deodorizers, and disinfectants to prevent bacterial growth and mildew in carpets. Any area affected by moisture is a breeding ground for microbial growth.
* Setup the necessary drying equipment strategically within the affected area (air movers/fans, dehumidifiers, air cleaners, etc).
* Monitor daily the equipment and the results of the drying process by taking all required readings. Drying typically takes three to seven days, but at times takes longer.
Once the drying is completed and the structure is back to it's pre-existing state, some of the things that may occur are the following:
* Contents are cleaned and placed back into it's original setting.
* Necessary repairs are completed and carpet and pad is reinstalled if necessary.
* Carpeted areas are cleaned accordingly as well as all traffic areas that were used during the entire process.
* Move and reset furniture as necessary.
* Final inspection is completed and customer sign-off. Obviously, each water disaster is different and calls for different techniques and areas of expertise.
What I described above is the framework of a typical water loss claim that we see on the residential-side of the business. If you have any questions please let me know or visit our website at www.PuroCleanProServices.com
Monday, June 29, 2009
Water Damage Can Occur at the Most Inopportune Times
Do's:
- Ventilate wet areas. In summer, turn on air conditioning to accelerate drying. In winter, alternate cycles of opened windows and heating.
- Remove standing water from flat surfaces by sponging and blotting.
- Take up saturated rugs and carpets when hardwood floors are at risk.
- Stay out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
- Remove lamps, telephones and decorative items from wet furniture tops.
- Open drawers and cabinet doors for interior drying, but do not force open stuck drawers or doors.
- Freeze valuable books and documents to retard mildew growth until drying can be performed.
- Place aluminum foil squares, china saucers or wood blocks under furniture legs to avoid staining carpet.
Dont's:
- Operate TV's, vacuums or other appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors. Serious injury may result.
- Use heat to dry closed building interiors. Mildew and expanded moisture changes may result.
- Leave wet fabrics in place. Space them apart and dry as soon as possible.
Hopefully you haven't struggled with this type of hazard. If you have any questions please let me know or visit my website at www.PuroCleanProServices.com
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Vandalism is Something Occurring in Vacant Homes: Quick Do's and Dont's
Do's
- Hose down or wash egg damage from building exteriors as soon as possible.
- Vacuum glass particles from carpet and upholstery.
- Save containers and spray cans that may reveal the composition of inks and pigments.
- Save all wood chips and fragments from furniture, porcelain or art object.
Dont's
- Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains; they can be permanently set if not handled properly.
Let me know if you experienced any of this yourself. If you have any additional questions or concerns, check out our website at www.PuroCleanProServices.com
Monday, March 30, 2009
Cleveland & Akron Experts Offer Tips to Reduce Losses from Water and Storm Damage

Home owners suffering from water damage are faced with an extremely stressful experience. PuroClean, part of the nation’s fastest growing property damage remediation franchise, is prepared to immediately restore property, relieving the stress of property owners during an extremely vulnerable time.
Water loss and damage is a real threat for property owners. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute in the last year, 22 per 1,000 households have entered a claim for water related damage. "These situations are more common than most people think," said George Cruz, owner of PuroClean. "Water damage can often result from weather, such as storms or melting snow, or more often, from common household malfunctions such as pipe leaks, washing machine malfunctions or other plumbing problems."
To help minimize loss, and prevent further damage while technicians from PuroClean are en route, Cruz suggests property owners follow these guidelines:
Insurance
o Call your agent.
o Take photographs of the damage.
o Keep all receipts from hotel stays, home repair materials, etc.
Plumbing
o Check pipes on well pumps and irrigation systems.
o If sewage is backing up in the shower or under the toilet, your whole system is backed up. Call a professional and don’t use other sinks or toilets.
Roofing
o If the neighbor’s roof is missing shingles after a storm, you can assume that yours probably is, too.
o If only a few shingles are gone, try to cover the area with a garbage bag. o If you have a large area of ripped tar paper or wood, cover it with a tarpaulin and call a roofer immediately.
Electric
o Most damage to electrical systems comes from water.
o Appliances exposed to water should be serviced before being used again.
o Check for sparks or frayed wires if wires are exposed call an electrician and do not turn on the power.
o If it appears that water has infiltrated your breaker box, call an electrician.
o Avoid fallen and dangling wires or metal fences.
o If a limb has fallen on a power line, turn off the power and call the utility company.
o If a fallen limb touches your property, it becomes your responsibility, but you should not attempt to clear them as they may be tangled in power lines. Call an electrician.
Flooding (Take these steps to minimize damage before the restoration professional arrives.) o Throw out all food, including canned goods, medicines and cosmetics that have been touched by flood water.
o Keep a photographic inventory of anything that must be thrown out.
o Don’t take pets into a flooded area and never let them drink standing flood water.
Miscellaneous
o Turn on air conditioner if damage occurs in summer.
o Move valuable paintings, art objects and photos to a safe, dry place.
o Open closet doors, furniture drawers and luggage to aid in drying.
o Remove any wet fabrics and dry immediately.
o Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
o Stay out of any rooms where the ceiling is sagging from trapped water.
o Turn off the breaker before unplugging appliances.
About PuroClean
PuroClean is a leader in property damage restoration and has earned the trust of property owners, insurance professionals and home service providers throughout the United States and Canada since 2001. Backed by a comprehensive network of over 240 franchise offices and a national training and business support center, each PuroClean office responds promptly to property emergencies demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and compassion. PuroClean certified technicians are thoroughly screened, insured and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures throughout the remediation process while operating under a strict code of ethics. In addition to serving the needs of property owners, PuroClean offers hundreds of continuing education classes each year to insurance professionals and property service providers nationwide. In 2008, PuroClean trained over 7,200 insurance professionals nationwide helping them earn their continuing education credits. For more information on PuroClean, please contact George Cruz at 866-944-PURO(7876) or visit http://www.purocleanproservices.com/.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Homeowners & Business Owners Should Be Alert of Winter Fire Risks
During the winter months, the majority of the country experiences colder and wetter weather conditions, increasing the need for structural heating and causing the peak season for heating fires. According to FEMA, heating fires account for 36 percent of residential home fires in rural areas every year. When a fire occurs, PuroClean is called to the scene, usually by a local insurance agent, to bring the situation under control, prevent it from becoming worse, and finally, to provide restoration services to help put the property back to pre-loss condition.
We at PuroClean have commonly been referred to as “The Paramedics of Property Damage.” We are a professional mitigation company specializing in property remediation after a home or commercial structure has been damaged by fire and smoke. Structural heating such as fireplaces or furnace malfunctions are a common cause of many of the fire mitigation calls we receive in the winter months.
With more than one-third of Americans using fireplaces and other fuel-burning appliances as a primary heat source, take note of the following tips to help reduce the risk of winter fires:
• Keep fireplaces clean
- Have chimneys inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney specialist
- Clear the area around the hearth of debris, decorations and flammable materials
- Always use a metal screen with fireplaces and leave doors open while burning
• Burn fuels safely
- Never use flammable liquids to start a fire
- Only use seasoned hardwood, not soft or moist wood
- Build small fires that produce less smoke
- Never burn boxes, trash or debris in a fireplace
- When building a fire, place logs at the rear of the fireplace
- Never leave a fire unattended, extinguish it before going to bed or leaving the house
- Soak hot ashes in water and place them in a metal container outside
• Protect the outside of your home
- Stack firewood at least 30 feet away from your home
- Keep the roof clear of pine needles, leaves, etc.
- Cover chimney with a mesh screen spark arrester
- Remove branches hanging above the chimney, flues or vents
If property is damaged by a fire, it is important to call a fire restoration professional immediately. Cruz said the faster the response, the greater the chance of saving property and possessions and minimizing insurance claims.
About PuroClean
PuroClean is a leader in property damage restoration and has earned the trust of property owners, insurance professionals and home service providers throughout the United States and Canada since 2001. Backed by a comprehensive network of over 230 franchise offices and a national training and business support center, each PuroClean office responds promptly to property emergencies demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and compassion. PuroClean technicians are thoroughly screened, insured and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures throughout the remediation process while operating under a strict code of ethics. In addition to serving the needs of property owners, PuroClean offers hundreds of continuing education classes each year to insurance professionals and property service providers nationwide. In 2007, PuroClean trained over 3,500 insurance professionals nationwide helping them earn their continuing education credits. For more information on PuroClean, please contact George Cruz or Emilio Soli at 866-944-PURO(7876) or visit www.PuroCleanProServices.com.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Christmas Tree Fires
PuroClean's Paramedics of Property Damage Warn Residents of Dangers of Holiday Fires
The Christmas holiday is traditionally celebrated with lights, candles, wreaths, and Christmas trees to decorate homes. According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas trees, both real and artificial, were the first items ignited in an estimated 300 reported home structure fires per year in 2000-2004.
The US Fire Administration offers the following fire safety tips for homeowners:
- When decorating, be sure to check if lights are indoor or outdoor use, not both
- Any string of lights with worn, frayed or broken cords should not be used
- Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving or going to bed
- Never use lit candles to decorate a tree, and make sure all lit candles are placed well away from tree branches
- Keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water daily. Do not purchase a tree that is dry or dropping needles. If purchasing an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled flame retardant.
- Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, such as fireplaces or radiators. Try to place the tree near an outlet to avoid running long cords, and do not place it where it may block exits.
- Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles, as dried out trees are highly flammable.
In the event of a Christmas tree fire, it is important for property owners to know what to do (and what not to do) and who to contact once it has been extinguished. PuroClean, known as “The Paramedics of Property Damage,” is a professional mitigation company specializing in property remediation after a home or commercial structure has been damaged by fire and smoke. We experience an increased number of fire mitigation calls around this time of year. The source of many of these fires is commonly attributed to holiday decorations such as Christmas trees. Fire and smoke can very rapidly harm household items, even after it has been extinguished. It is imperative to seek help immediately from a professional restoration company to prevent further damage.
Examples of how quickly fire and smoke can harm property:
- Within minutes plastic and marble surfaces begin to permanently stain
- Within hours metals tarnish, grout stains, fiberglass yellows and furniture yellows
- Within days flooring stains, fabrics are lost and wood furniture finish is compromised
About PuroClean
PuroClean is a leader in property damage restoration and has earned the trust of property owners, insurance professionals and home service providers throughout the United States and Canada since 2001. Backed by a comprehensive network of over 215 franchise offices and a national training and business support center, each PuroClean office responds promptly to property emergencies demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and compassion. PuroClean technicians are thoroughly screened, insured and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures throughout the remediation process while operating under a strict code of ethics. In addition to serving the needs of property owners, PuroClean offers hundreds of continuing education classes each year to insurance professionals and property service providers nationwide. In 2007, PuroClean trained over 3,500 insurance professionals nationwide helping them earn their continuing education credits. For more information on PuroClean, please contact Contact George Cruz at 440-944-7876 or visit www.PuroCleanProServices.com
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Cold Weather Approaching Can Lead to Frozen Pipes, Property Damage
As winter weather sets in, and cold temperatures cause water to freeze and expand, homeowners are at a risk of damage from frozen pipes. Whether a pipe is plastic or metal, it cannot withstand the pressure caused by the expansion of freezing water.
According to the American Red Cross, pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to the severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Also, pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing. Pipe freezing is a particular problem in warmer regions where pipes often run through uninsulated or underinsulated attics or crawl spaces.
PuroClean, known as "The Paramedics of Property Damage," is a professional mitigation company specializing in property restoration and responding to water damage emergencies that can be caused by frozen pipes. This time of year, we experience an increased number of property emergencies due to frozen pipes.
To help reduce the risk of frozen pipes, take a look at the following tips:
- Make sure all pipes in unheated areas are insulated
- When it is extremely cold outside, let cold water drip from the faucet because running a small amount of water helps prevent pipes from freezing
- Keep the heat on if you are going away during cold weather
- Keep the thermostat set at the same temperature both during day and night
- Add insulation to basements, attics and garages to maintain higher temperatures
About PuroCleanPuroClean is a leader in property damage restoration and has earned the trust of property owners, insurance professionals and home service providers throughout the United States and Canada since 2001. Backed by a comprehensive network of over 215 franchise offices and a national training and business support center, each PuroClean office responds promptly to property emergencies demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and compassion. PuroClean technicians are thoroughly screened, insured and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures throughout the remediation process while operating under a strict code of ethics. In addition to serving the needs of property owners, PuroClean offers hundreds of continuing education classes each year to insurance professionals and property service providers nationwide. In 2007, PuroClean trained over 3,500 insurance professionals nationwide helping them earn their continuing education credits. For more information on PuroClean, please contact George Cruz at 440-785-5171 or visit www.purocleanproservices.com.

