Prevent Halloween Fires in your Mashpee Home

10/16/2024 (Permalink)

Prevention is the best defense against fire damage this Halloween.

Halloween is just around the corner, bringing ghosts, goblins & ghouls to your Mashpee doorstep, and allowing you the opportunity to break out your spooky Halloween decorations. All our communities in Barnstable County on Cape Cod love to decorate this time of year but it’s important to decorate safely and use best practices to avoid fire damage.

Did You Know? 2 out of every 5 Halloween fires happen because of improperly placed decorations? It’s best to ensure you avoid fire damage and restoration needs by utilizing the following simple tips.

How to Prevent Halloween Fires

1. Avoid Open Flames

Whether you’ve placed candles in jack-o-lanterns or luminaries, open flames pose a significant risk. Lit candles that are unsupervised can be accidentally knocked over and the flames can spread fast, particularly if they’re near flammable items.

Try using alternative methods to light up your home and yard.  Glow sticks & battery-operated candles are a great way to decorate safely. Always teach children to be aware of any open flames when trick or treating and encourage them to stay away from the flames.

2. Use Dried Decorations Sparingly

While open flames pose the greatest threat for fire damage, there are many other heat sources that can also start fires, particularly if they are surrounded by dried decorations like cornstalks, hay, or flowers. These types of items are flammable and can catch fire easily when placed too closely to high-wattage light bulbs or portable heaters.

Be sure to keep all dried decorations away from any heat source and use them sparingly to prevent accidents.

3. Keep Exit Routes Clear

Halloween fires can also occur from interior decorations like fake cobwebs and paper streamers decorating doorways and windows. This can make it more difficult to exit the home if a fire does break out.

Keep obstructive decorations out of doorways, hallways and windows leaving an open path to exit the home in the event of a fire. 

If you’ve experienced a fire in your Mashpee home and need restoration services, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. In addition to fire damage restoration services, our team also offers water and storm damage cleaning and restoration as well as mold remediation and rodent clean-up. To learn more about our services, visit us online or call (508) 778-7378.

Barnstable County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

10/7/2024 (Permalink)

our problem = Our Solution! SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Barnstable County.

SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 508-778-7378

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod

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

MEET OUR CREW:https://www.SERVPROmidoutercapecod.com/employee-photos

Why Choose SERVPRO® for Your Orleans Water Emergency?

8/19/2024 (Permalink)

When water damage happens in your home, call in the professionals at SERVPRO®. Our Team is available 24/7 for your water damage emergency.

There are some flooding situations that your buddy with a shop-vac just can’t fix. Taking care of a water damage situation yourself may sound like the cheaper and easier option, but it practically never is. What about the padding, the subfloor, the walls and the cupping floorboards? An emergency call to your local restoration company will not only take care of these headaches, but they will also work with your insurance company to make this as little of a financial strain as possible.

“So, When Should I Call SERVPRO®?”

Common water emergencies include, but aren’t limited to:

• Water removal from burst pipe, pipe blockage, etc.
• Water damaged contents such as furniture, artwork and appliances
• Needing moisture detection on a water-logged carpet
• Demolition/replacement of water damaged walls and fixtures

Next time you find yourself in a large water damage situation, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. We’re available 24/7 for your water emergency. Give us a call at 508-778-7378 and we’ll work with insurance to make it "Like it never even happened."

Prevent A/C Water Damage in Your Provincetown Home

8/1/2024 (Permalink)

Keeping your A/C unit at a lower more constant temperature may help to prevent water damage in your home.

So, you’ve done everything right to prevent water damage in your home. The gutters are clear, your water pressure is fine, you know where every water shutoff valve is, and every possible leak has been taken note of and taken care of. Nothing is worse than when seemingly every precaution is taken to prevent water damage, but the A/C unit decides to leak and ruin your floors/walls. In this Cape Cod summer heat, the last thing on a homeowner’s mind is turning OFF the A/C. However, taking care of your air conditioner will not only keep you cool, but it’ll also keep your home water damage-free.

Realize that air conditioners have different temperature and coolness settings for a reason. Many homeowners put their units on full blast on the lowest temperature without even thinking about it. Don’t just crank the A/C and forget it. Doing so WILL damage the unit, cause leaks, make it unusable for future summers and waste electricity. Find the optimal setting on the A/C for your living space. Keep track of the room temp, find a comfortable setting that’s lower than full power and you’ll be cool and free from water damage for summers to come.

At SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod, we understand how unpredictable and destructive water damage can be. From small leaks to feet of standing water, we’ll take care of you. Give us a call anytime 24/7 at 508-778-7378 and we’ll make your water situation our top priority. Our crew is standing by for your water damage emergency. If you find yourself in need of damage restoration in your home or business, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod will make it "Like it never even happened."

The ERP: One of the Smartest Things a Business Owner Can Do.

8/1/2024 (Permalink)

Preparing in advance for emergencies is the best way to minimize water damage or fire damage.

Planning can be fun, whether it’s planning a vacation, looking forward to an exciting event or just anticipating an enjoyable part of a routine. However, planning can be less than fun, especially when it involves preparing for possible home or business disasters.  At SERVPRO®, we are professionals at planning for and tackling disasters head on so property owners never have to. Best of all, with our ERP program, we do the disaster planning for you and free of charge.

The ERP, or Emergency Ready Profile, is a contingency plan focused on incident response, disaster recovery and business continuity. This no cost assessment will take very little time to complete but will go a very long way if the worst happens to a commercial property. Using the SERVPRO® ERP app or a physical ERP booklet, any employee will have access to who to call, where to go and what to do in the case of a fire or water-related crisis or emergency. Also, if a business with an ERP decides to use SERVPRO® for professional mitigation and remediation, SERVPRO® will have a plan in place, assuring the job will get done quickly and properly. Feel free to contact SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378 to set up a free Emergency Ready Program!

Soot Timeline

8/1/2024 (Permalink)

Soot from a furnace puffback or fire can be very destructive if left untreated or not remediated properly. Don't wait...Call in the Pro's at SERVPRO®

Soot is incompletely combusted materials leftover from a fire. Removing soot from walls and furniture is a very particular process that may destroy your belongings if done wrong or ignored. If left alone, soot will continuously cause irreversible damage to your home and household items.  Here’s a timeline of how soot effects your home and your belongings.

• In minutes: Plastics yellow in color
• In Hours: Surfaces such as countertops, fiberglass, appliances and furniture begin to yellow. Metals will begin to tarnish
• In Days: Permanent staining on clothing, upholstery, and painted walls. Appliances and vinyl flooring will break and require replacement. Metals will rust and corrode
• In a week: Carpets are permanently destroyed. Glass and china will pit

However, if treated right, soot damage shouldn’t be an issue. At SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod, we have to tools of the trade and cleaning methods to put you back in your home fast.  Call us anytime at 508-778-7378 to schedule a free estimate or to receive emergency service. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we're faster to any size disaster. 

Fire Damage in Truro; Don't Do It Alone

7/15/2024 (Permalink)

Fire damage and smoke damage can impact a home beyond what is visible to the naked eye. Call in the Pros for help with the clean-up.

A common mindset people have when their home suffers from smoke or fire damage is to immediately and hastily resolve the situation themselves. It’s completely understandable why an affected homeowner would want to do this, but trying to fix the situation without the proper knowledge and expertise could set the damage and make it harder to get rid of. Here are some things to avoid when attempting smoke removal:

• Limit movement within your house to lessen the spread of soot
• Don’t wash any painted surfaces
• Don’t shampoo any carpets or upholstery
• Don’t clean any electronics
• Don’t bring clothing effected by smoke to the dry cleaners: this will likely make your clothes permanently smell like smoke

For any of your smoke removal needs, call a fire restoration expert. More often than not, the scope of damage a fire or puffback incident causes is larger than it is to the untrained eye. If you have any questions about smoke removal or fire restoration, give SERVPRO® of Mid-Outer Cape Cod a call at 508-778-7378. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we’re available 24/7 to help with your emergency fire damage cleanup needs. If your Cape Cod home suffers from excessive soot damage, trust SERVPRO® to make it "Like it never even happened."

Give Your Clients the Right First Impression of Your Provincetown Business

7/10/2024 (Permalink)

First impressions can make or break your business. Maintaining your building and property will make long term upkeep manageable and prevent damage.

With a properly maintained business, you can create lasting impressions that will bring new customers through word of mouth. Always keep your business looking clean, organized, and inviting. Here are some things to consider when maintaining your commercial property:

• The Exterior of your Building: Speaking of first impressions, the maintenance of your building’s exterior will speak volumes to new customers. Consider their first impression when they drive into your parking area: Is the building in need of repair? Is the landscaping neat and appealing or a little neglected?

• The Interior of your Building: Once you’ve attracted the customer to your business, having a clean interior will help keep them in the doors. Look for things that might need repairs or touch ups and fix them. Always keep the interior of your business clean. Regularly dust, vacuum, and maintain any appliances. Keep bathrooms looking spotless and hygienic.

• The Details: Don’t forget about the little things, like making sure the light fixtures are dusted or the bathroom soap is refilled. Customers will notice and appreciate the attention to detail.

• Utilities: Regularly check and maintain your utilities. This includes air conditioning units, water heaters, and other utilities your business depends on. There is nothing worse than having a utility breakdown during business hours. Maintain a comfortable atmosphere for both customers and employees.

Not only does maintaining your property attract customers, but it also preserves its value. If you feel like you may have fallen behind on the maintenance of your business, or you just want a deep cleaning to bring back its appeal, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378.

Don't Ignore Signs of Water Damage in Your Orleans Business

7/10/2024 (Permalink)

Untreated water damage can cause a number of issues including the need for mold remediation. Watch for the signs and call on our Team for help!

Businesses often ignore that telltale signs of water damage that can lead to disaster. Whether it’s caused by the signs not being recognized, denial, or by just flat-out ignoring the evidence, overlooked water damage can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage to your Orleans property. These signs, more often than not, are easy to detect. If treated quickly and properly, the problem can be mitigated thoroughly and inexpensively. Pay attention to these five water damage indicators to keep your commercial property in Orleans clean and safe from water damage:

1. Constant Water Pooling: Have you ever noticed a particular place in your property that constantly has a puddle? A place where no matter how much you dry it up, it always seems to become a watery mess? It turns out this might be an indicator of a possible leak. If you find yourself in this situation, try to find the source of the leak. If the source isn’t easy to locate, you may have to call a professional who specializes in repairing whatever appliance or fixture is leaking.
2. Wall and Ceiling Discoloration: Typically, brown or black in appearance, wall and ceiling discolorations can point towards a potential leakage problem. Wet drywall and ceilings are highly prone to mold and mildew growth. Have you seen a spot like this? Don’t ignore it! Call a professional water mitigation company to treat or remove these stains.
3. Unusually High Water Bill: If your water usage habits stay the same but your water bill somehow spikes way up, you may have an undiscovered leak in your building. Another typical sign of an undiscovered leak would be an unexplained sound of running water. If any of these signs appear, call a plumber to seek out and stop the leak before substantial damage occurs.
4. Musty Odors: If your commercial property is perfectly clean and still emits a musty odor, the culprit is more than likely water damage. If you’re presented with a musty odor, check for unusually wet surfaces or any of the water damage signs previously mentioned.

If your commercial property is suffering from water damage, trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to get the job done right. We are trained and experienced in all things water, fire, smoke, cleaning and mold restoration. Call us at 508-778-7378 to set up your free estimate. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we’re on alert 24/7 for your restoration emergency.

Preventing Kitchen Fires in Hyannis, MA

7/1/2024 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires are a common hazard that can be avoided by taking the proper precautions. Fire Damage and smoke damage require professional remediation.

Very few things are quite as devastating as a kitchen fire. However, if the proper precautions are taken, kitchen fires shouldn’t be a worry. In both home and commercial kitchens, eliminating fire hazards should be a top priority. There are some fire prevention methods unique to each kind of kitchen and methods that can be practiced both at home or in a restaurant. SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod have a few tips to keep your kitchen safe during this scorching hot Cape Cod summer.

Home Fire Prevention

• Update the Fire Extinguisher: Most homeowners likely have a fire extinguisher handy somewhere in the kitchen. Fortunately, they are seldom used in most kitchens. However, this likely means the extinguisher has been sitting for a while and is years past its last useful date.
  Updating your extinguisher will keep you prepared for most emergency home fire scenarios.
• Properly Put Out Grease Fires: Many people know that putting water on a grease fire will only make the situation worse, but don’t actually know how to properly extinguish one. First, cover the flames with a pot/pan cover or baking sheet. For smaller fires, suffocate the flames by pouring baking soda on them. If all else fails, use a chemical fire extinguisher (class B). This will likely ruin your appliances but may just prevent the fire from spreading.
• Clean Stovetop Burners: Whether or not your burners are metal or glass, use benign, non-toxic cleaners to clean them. One old but undeniably good stovetop-cleaning agent is simply white vinegar, baking soda and water in a spray bottle. Using this as a cleaner prevents toxic and flammable chemicals from building up on burners and possibly causing a fire.
• Don’t Leave an Unattended Stovetop: According to the National Fire Protection Association, the leading cause of household kitchen fires are caused by unattended cooking appliances[1]. Always keep an eye on your stove and be sure to check in on your oven and microwave regularly when they are in use.

Commercial Kitchen Fire Prevention

• Mise En Place: There’s a phrase common in the cooking world, “Mise en place”. The phrase means that every ingredient, cooking tool and item a cook uses must be organized and clean. Not only does this get meals out fast and efficiently, but it also greatly lowers the risk of a kitchen fire. If everything is in its place, injuries, slips, contamination and the misplacement of scolding hot cookware can all be prevented.
• Clean Grease Traps and Hood Vents Regularly: There’s nothing a dishwasher hates more than being handed hood vents to clean that are caked in a year’s worth of grease and grime. Even worse than that is the high probability of a grease fire if those vents remain uncleaned. Aim to clean the vents at a bi-weekly pace and dry them completely before reinstalling.
• Be Cautious of What Gets Thrown Away: If you’ve made a mistake cooking, don’t throw it out right away. Any hot items that need to be discarded should be put aside to cool down. Trash cans could possibly melt or catch fire if hot items are carelessly disposed in them.
• Never Leave a Functioning Kitchen Unattended: Just like you would at home, making sure the kitchen is always supervised is the single most important fire prevention method. Also, make sure to set timers for everything that enters your oven. Often times prep cooking, items can get left in restaurant ovens without a timer, causing them to char and catch fire. Also, be sure to make sure all out of use burners are off.

If Your Kitchen Catches Fire

        If the worst has happened to your home or commercial kitchen, call the restoration experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. We’re on alert 24/7 for your fire damage and smoke damage emergency. We’ll get you back home and back to work faster than any other restoration crew on  Cape Cod. From Mashpee to Provincetown, SERVPRO is your local crew for all things restoration.

[1] https://www.nfpa.org/news-and-research/data-research-and-tools/us-fire-problem/home-cooking-fires

24/7 Response Across Cape Cod: The SERVPRO Promise

7/1/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage sets in faster than you would expect. Call in the Pros at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod for help!

If you come home after a long day of work to find your basement is flooded, the last thing you want to do is wait to get the mitigation process started. Luckily, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is on alert 24/7 for your emergency restoration needs. We’ll get a crew to your home in less than 24 hours. Why shouldn’t you wait? Here’s a timeline of what water damage does as it sets into your home:

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

For your emergency water restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we’re ready for your water, mold, fire, or storm emergency.

Hurricane Mitigation in Truro, MA

5/18/2024 (Permalink)

Be prepared for Hurricane Season to avoid water damage to your home or business. Call in the Pros at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod for help!

Be Prepared for Hurricane Season!

The Atlantic hurricane season will officially begin on June 1. Hurricane hazards come in many forms, including storm surge, heavy rainfall, inland flooding, high winds, tornadoes, and rip currents. The National Weather Service is responsible for protecting life and property through issuance of timely watches and warnings, but it is essential that your family be ready before a storm hits. In addition to battening down the hatches on your home, you should have an emergency supply kit to last each family member and pet for at least three days. A basic kit should include the following supplies:

1. Basics: Flashlights, candles, lighters, matches in water-proof container, manual can openers, first-aid kit, towels, and batteries.
2. Electronics: In addition to keeping your cell phone charged before losing power, make sure you have a portable charger to charge your devices during a power outage. Having a prepaid phone and spare battery in the kit can come in handy if something happens to your phone during an evacuation.
3. Radio: An emergency radio that charges by hand-crank, in case cell service is out, will keep you informed of weather alerts.
4. Food: You should store at least 3 days of non-perishable food including canned and dehydrated food.
5. Medical Supplies: Pack a week’s supply of your prescription drugs in a waterproof container or bag. CVS and Walgreens recommend visiting your local pharmacy to stock up ahead of time. If your medications need to be kept cold, have a small cooler with ice on hand. Don’t forget batteries for medical devices.
6. Water: Have multiple cases of water accessible. A rule of thumb is 1 gallon per person (or pet) per day.
7. Clothing: Keep a change of clothing on hand (vacuum-packed saves space!) including shoes.

Experiencing fire, smoke, water, or mold damage? Call SERVPRO of Mid Outer Cape Cod any time at 508-778-7378.

Don't Let Storm Damage Ruin Your Cape Cod Property

5/9/2024 (Permalink)

Summer on Cape Cod can bring some volatile weather. It is best to be prepared for storm damage BEFORE the storm hits.

Don’t let storm damage become another obstacle to getting your business back up and running. On Cape Cod, weather can be unpredictable and unreliable.  It is imperative to have storm damage prevention methods in place to protect your property from a stormy weather event. Here are some tips from our Team at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to keep your Cape Cod commercial property ready for whatever storm and hurricane season brings.

• Clean the Gutters: For homes and businesses alike, keeping gutters clean is crucial for preventing storm damage. Excessive blockages in gutters lead to ceiling and roof leaks. Any storm, large or small, can be a massive source of damage if gutters are left unchecked.
• Keep the Property Free of Debris:When high winds strike, debris become projectiles. Not only should a business pick up existing debris around the property, potential debris should be identified and removed. Remove any problematic tree branches, flags or signage prior to a high-wind event.
• Know your Insurance Policy:Ask for an official copy of your insurance policy. Know which losses are covered in the policy and which losses are not. This information will help business owners prepare properly for preventing expenses in the instance of storm damage.
• Keep Tabs on Pre-loss Conditions: Document the commercial property with photos before a storm, preferably areas susceptible to wind damage. This includes gutters, windows, roofs, ceilings, etc.

If you find your commercial building has fallen victim to storm damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape to restore your property the right way. We are on call 24/7 for your emergency restoration needs. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we are ready for your call at 508-778-7378. Storm damage? We will work to make it "Like it never even happened."

Praise From Our Customers

5/9/2024 (Permalink)

Every disaster is concerning. Every customer is important. Helping is our goal!

Reviews and testimonials aren't just another form in a file cabinet or a blurb lost on the internet.  To us, all reviews help us at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod learn how to be the best disaster mitigation service we can be for our community. At the end of the day, no matter how we pitch our own services, the word of the customer is the most accurate and important indicator of our performance. Here are some much appreciated testimonials that show why SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod stands out above the rest:

• Janyce from Chatham sings the praises of our crew members, "Phillip was so respectful, courteous & polite! We couldn't be happier with his customer service. Thank you again!"
• Mary from Barnstable admires our mindfulness, "Great crew - they worked great together. Very thoughtful of sick family member."
• Eastham United Methodist applauds our striving for perfection, "They did a great job. Fast, nice and left our pantry spotless."
• Robert from West Dennis simply states, "The best of all workers"

If we recently did a job for you, your feedback means a great deal to us. Leave us a review on Google https://www.SERVPROmidoutercapecod.com/customer-reviews/reviews. SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod will continue to meet and exceed the specific and important needs of all our customers and are proud to be members of the Mid-Cape community.

Emergency Water Restoration Timeline for your Commercial Property

5/9/2024 (Permalink)

Nothing can halt your business faster than water damage. If you fall victim, rely on the Pros at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to help.

When it comes to restoration after a water disaster, nothing is more crucial than time. Knowing this, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod has a set timeline for water emergency that ensures the job is done right and you can continue quickly with business as usual.

Within One Hour: You’ll be contacted by our project manager and service will be arranged

Within Four Hours: Our crew will arrive and begin working on your property. We’ll walk you through the situation and the expected outcome of our work. After, we’ll pretest the area to see the best route of restoration, starting from the source of damage outwards.

Within Eight Hours: A detailed briefing of the scope of work will be communicated to the property owner or insurance adjuster. Then, using our state-of-the-art equipment, our crew will work diligently according to the scope until the job is done right. When the work is done, the property owner will have a final walkthrough to make sure everything was done to their satisfaction.

If your commercial property falls victim to water damage, trust SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to get the job done quickly, efficiently and exceptionally. Call us anytime at 508-778-7378 and together, we’ll work to restore your property to its preloss condition.

Prevent Basement Flooding in Wellfleet MA

5/9/2024 (Permalink)

When Mother Nature opens the flood gates, we need to be prepared to prevent storm damage & water damage from wrecking your summer fun on Cape Cod.

They say “April showers bring May flowers” but rain can happen anytime during the spring and summer months on Cape Cod.  With the rainfall that typically arrives in the coming months, be sure your basement is properly flood-proofed by following these steps:

• Secure basement windows: Installing window well covers will give you a solid first line of defense from basement flooding. Also, make sure all cracks around the window are properly sealed.

• Gutter Maintenance: Keep your gutters clean and free of debris. Also, be sure your downspouts are draining at least three feet away from the foundation of your house.
• Inspect your foundation: Survey the interior basement walls and exterior foundation of your house. Be sure all cracks are properly sealed.

• Clean your septic tank: Your septic tank may need pumping as above-average rainfall that comes along with spring can seep into your system and wreak havoc. Be sure to service your septic tank regularly.

These helpful tips should assist in preventing some storm-related flooding in your basement if followed correctly. However, if disaster strikes and you find your basement flooded, the experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod are here 24/7 to help. From Mashpee to Provincetown, call us at 508-778-7378 for your water damage and storm damage needs.

TRUST SERVPRO With Your Cape Cod Commercial Property

5/9/2024 (Permalink)

When it comes to water or fire damage, smoke or soot damage, mold remediation, rodent cleaning & disinfecting, TRUST SERVPRO.

SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod may seem like just another local restoration company, but our experience, response time, connections and quality of work are world-class. We put property owners back in control of their properties in a fast, effective and efficient manner. Here are a few reasons SERVPRO stands out above the rest:

• We have over 1,700 franchise locations: No job is too big, small or far away for SERVPRO. Need a local restoration job? We’ll be there faster than the competition. Need a large-scale facility serviced? We have the backing of nearly thousands of other franchises that can help us get the job done fast and right.
• We Offer 24/7 Emergency Response: Consider us the restoration company that never closes. Have a flood at 2 am? We’ll be there before 3. Operators, whether they are at our local Dennis branch or elsewhere, are always on the line to ensure a project manager is aware and will respond to your disaster within the hour.
• Over 300 Property Management and Insurance Company Partnerships: Because SERVPRO aims to restore instead of replace, we save insurance agencies and the insured far more than the competition. Because of our track record of great service and savings, your insurance agency likely has us as a preferred vendor, making the restoration process smooth and easy.

If your commercial property is suffering from water, mold, fire or smoke damage, trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to get the job done right. We are trained and experienced in all things restoration. Call us at 508-778-7378 to set up your free estimate. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we are on alert 24/7 for your restoration emergency.

Roof Leak Prevention Tips For Your Provincetown Home

5/9/2024 (Permalink)

A common way water damage presents itself is in bubbling paint on ceilings or walls. Call the PROs at SERVPRO if you suspect water damage.

Water damage can affect virtually every part of your home. If you have a roof leak and proper mitigation action isn't taken immediately, you run the risk of causing water damage throughout your entire home from top to bottom. SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod recommends you monitor your roof for leaks during the current rainy season.

• Check regularly for leaks and cracks year-round, even when it’s not raining.
• Check outside for loose tiling, shingles or gutters that could potentially be a hazard if hit by high winds. If any shingles are broken or missing, replace them or consider re-roofing. Any water that gets under your shingles can get under your roof's plastic barrier, potentially seeping into your wood, insulation and structural beams. The cost of replacing your roof is a fraction of replacing structural roof damage.
• Check chimney flashing to make sure it is watertight. Chimney leaks can go un-noticed for a long time before they become visible, potentially causing mold issues behind walls & ceilings.

If a storm-related disaster strikes, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we're on alert for all your disaster mitigation needs.

Preparing Your Barnstable Home for Hurricane Season

5/9/2024 (Permalink)

Summer months on Cape Cod can be bring volatile weather. Prepare your home BEFORE the storm hits to avoid storm damage from ruining your summer fun.

The Atlantic Hurricane season starts on June 1 and typically lasts until late November. With the season less than a month away, now is the perfect time to make sure your home is prepared and protected from possible storm damage. Here are some useful tips to help you be ready for whatever hurricane season throws your way:

• Remove problematic trees and tree branches: If any trees or branches seem to be in danger of falling on your home, trim them down or remove them before they have a chance to become a falling hazard.

• Consider Replacing Your Gravel: Any rocks or gravel on your property could inflict large amounts of damage to your windows and walls during a hurricane. Consider replacing parts of your yard that are landscaped with stone or gravel with lighter materials such as mulch.

• Hurricane-Proof Your Doors: Make sure each door has three hinges and deadbolts wherever possible. Otherwise, high winds can blow your doors open or in extreme cases, even off the hinges causing huge amounts of damage to both the inside and outside of your home.

• Make Sure Your Sliding Doors Are Safe: Check to see if your sliding doors are made of tempered glass and have working locks. In the event of a hurricane, be sure to board up windows and sliding doors with plywood to prevent shattering.

• Store Yard Furniture Indoors: Any yard furniture, such as patio tables and chairs, needs to be safely stored inside your home, garage or shed. Anything left outside and unsecure, cars included, have the potential to become projectiles in the event of a hurricane.

Hurricanes can cause major damage to Cape Cod homes. If your home suffers from storm damage, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378. We have the tools and expertise to be your local one-stop shop for your disaster mitigation needs. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we are on alert 24/7 to help you recover quickly.

Call SERVPRO When Spring Cleaning Your Barnstable Home Becomes a Restoration Project

4/25/2024 (Permalink)

From general cleaning & mold remediation to water & fire damage mitigation. Our Team is ready to help with all your restoration needs.

With warmer weather finally upon us, many Cape Cod residents are taking this opportunity to start their spring cleaning. However, homeowners may often find larger household issues when clearing clutter. Rodent infestations, mold, puffback soot and other household headaches may just be looming around the corner.  Trying to tackle these situations alone may just make it worse. Here’s some examples of why some common household issues should be left to the professionals:

• Puffbacks: puffback-related soot damage will deteriorate objects and structures in your home, sometimes past the point of restoration. Plates and fine China will discolor, paint can be left permanently stained and electronic appliances can be irreversibly damaged. If not treated correctly by a professional, parts of your home or business that you wouldn’t expect to be damaged could deteriorate before your eyes. Furthermore, through use of patented cleaners and chemical sponges, SERVPRO removes puff back damage thoroughly and permanently.
• Rodent Infestations: SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is trained to safely remove animal related biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices. Also, anytime animals stow away in your home, it’s more than likely that your insulation needs to be replaced. Trust SERVPRO to clean or replace your insulation fast, easily, affordably and efficiently.
• Mold: Remediation makes sure that MOLD STAYS GONE: Removing mold stains will only get rid of its appearance for a brief amount of time. The mold spots will come back larger and more toxic than before. By calling a restoration company, you’ll be saving time and money that could’ve been wasted on a more severe mold problem down the line.

If spring cleaning becomes more of a home restoration project, call in the PROs at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod.  We are available 24/7 for all your restoration needs.  CALL US at 508-778-7378.

Storm Preparedness in Barnstable County

4/25/2024 (Permalink)

Preparation is the best defense against storm damage. Pay attention to the weather & take precautions as necessary to prevent storm damage.

Any storm, be it big or small, should be prepared for to prevent damage to your home and to keep everyone living in it safe. Although we are nearing the end of Nor'Easter season, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod has a few tips to prepare your home in the event of a large storm:

• Keep your yard clean and free of debris
• Check your house for attic and basement leaks
• Be sure gutters, shingles, windowsills and anything that can potentially become a projectile are secured
• Know your evacuation routes in case of a severe storm

If storm damage or water damage unexpectedly strike your home or business, the experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod are here to help. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we're on alert 24/7 to help with your disaster mitigation and remediation needs. Contact us at 508-778-7378 and we'll send our crew over to you to prevent further damage and restore your home or business.

Keep Your Hyannis Commercial Property Free From Mold

4/25/2024 (Permalink)

Summer is on its way, and unfortunately, mold comes along with it. The warmth and dampness of Cape Cod makes your business a prime candidate for excessive mold growth. By not being vigilant for the warning signs of mold, you could be putting the structure of your commercial property in major jeopardy. More importantly, mold buildup may put the health of your clients and employees at risk. Our Team at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod see extreme mold growth constantly. Here is a few tips from the mold experts at SERVPRO:

• Keep your environment free of excessive humidity

A dehumidifier is one of the best investments you can make for the health of your commercial building. Mold requires constant moisture to thrive, so snuffing out the air moisture in your building stops mold dead in its tracks. Circulate the air in the building with fans or HVAC units. However, if you find that you have a mold issue, shut off HVAC units immediately and call a mold remediation service.

• Dust Often

Dusting off shelves, appliances and other objects in your building not only keeps the place looking clean, it's also an important measure towards preventing mold. Mold feeds off of the organic dust tissues. Less dust means less food for mold spores. We recommend thoroughly dusting most every area in your commercial property on a weekly basis.

• Find and Fix Leaks ASAP

Feel pipes around your property for moisture. Also, be on the lookout for telltale signs of a leaking pipe; stained walls, warped walls, buckling floors and peeling wall paint. If you suspect you have a leak, call a plumber as soon as possible.

• Clean Wet Areas

Though cleaning up an indoor puddle from a spill may be an obvious measure, be on the lookout for high-moisture areas that may be less apparent. Check under appliances, tables or behind any area where a spill may be forgotten. Any unchecked dampness can become a major mold problem, don't wait until it becomes more apparent and turns into a mold infestation.

If you discover your commercial property has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod for mold remediation services. From Barnstable to Truro, Dennis to Wellfleet, even Mashpee to Provincetown, trust SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod for your disaster mitigation needs. Call us at 508-778-7378, we're on alert 24/7 to help.

Restore vs Replace: Why SERVPRO is Ideal for Your Dennis Property.

4/15/2024 (Permalink)

We use state-of-the-art equipment to restore your home after water damage and save you money on costly reconstruction.

When an unexpected disaster strikes, don't call a construction company, call SERVPRO. Don't waste valuable time and money if water, fire, smoke, storm, or mold damage affects your home or business. Our goal at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is to mitigate disasters and safely return you to your property as soon as possible. Actions taken during the first 24-48 hours of a disaster are crucial to the repair of your home or business. Construction companies allow more damage to set in after an incident occurs, as their goal is to replace damaged items at a future date. Here are some benefits of choosing SERVPRO to mitigate your incident instead:

• Prompt assistance: We're available 24/7 to repair property damage soon after it occurs.
• Time and Money savings: because of our prompt assistance, not only do you wait less time to return to your property, but damage also has less time to set in and spread. This creates less of a need to undergo expensive replacements and reconstruction.
• Range of expertise: SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is expertly trained in mold remediation, water mitigation, storm damage repair, fire damage repair, smoke damage repair and pathogen-targeting disinfection. No matter the disaster, let SERVPRO be your one-stop shop.

From Mashpee to Provincetown, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is standing by 24/7 to mitigate your disaster. Call us at 508-778-7378. We are here to help!

Water Damage Protection in Provincetown

4/5/2024 (Permalink)

Knowing what to do and what NOT to do after a water disaster can mean the difference between helping minimize water damage or making it worse.

Coming home to a flooded house is one of a homeowner’s worst fears. Often, when homeowners find themselves in this situation, they understandably panic and rush to fix the situation, only to make it worse. If you find yourself in this situation, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod has tips to prevent water damage from destroying your home:

• Shut off the water source of the leak
• Shut off circuit breakers for water-logged areas
• Mop up excessive water to the best of your ability
• Remove lamps/electronics from tables and wipe water off of wooden furniture
• Remove and dry wet cushions
• Lift furniture legs off wet carpets with tin foil or wood blocks
• Move items vulnerable to water to a safer place

Also, be sure to follow this list of DO NOTS:

• DO NOT enter rooms that put you at risk of electric shock
• DO NOT leave books, magazines and other print media on wet carpet as this causes staining
• DO NOT use a household vacuum to suck up water
• DO NOT use electronics in affected areas
• DO NOT use ceiling fans if your roof is suffering from water damage.

What you do until water mitigation help arrives is crucial to the future of your home. For your water damage, flood damage and disaster mitigation needs, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at (508) 778-7378. We're here 24/7 to make sure you don't fall victim to water damage.

Wet Vs. Dry Smoke: How To Handle All Types of Fires in Barnstable County

4/5/2024 (Permalink)

Smoke damage requires special cleaning techniques that only a Professional can provide. Call us...WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

Ironically, one of the hardest parts of restoring a fire damaged property is dealing with water damage. When a fire is extinguished, it creates a thick, low temperature smoke known as wet smoke. Think of it like putting out a bonfire; when the fires at full blaze, it produces less smoke than a fire going through the smoldering phase of extinguishing. When a fire is still brightly burning dry materials, it creates what’s known as a dry smoke. Both dry and wet smoke damage come with their own unique set of challenges when it comes to restoration.

• Wet Smoke: As previously stated, the water damage that comes with a fire creates a new set of restoration challenges. Thick, wet smoke creates hard to remove residue on virtually every surface of your property. This is caused by partially combusted particles clinging to any area wet smoke has touched. This kind of smoke cannot be removed by an amateur. Wet smoke restoration ranges anywhere from cleaning with specialized chemicals and sandblasters to total reconstruction of the affected areas.
• Dry Smoke: Without the presence of moisture, fire will completely combust anything that comes into its path. While this means smoke residues can be more easily removed, it also means more of your property likely needs to be demolished and replaced. It’s always important to extinguish fires properly, completely and in a timely manner, even if it means more wet smoke residue. While a smaller scale instance of dry smoke damage is very easy to take care of, a large-scale instance of a dry fire is more than likely to spell complete disaster for your property.

No matter what kind of fire your home or business faces, be sure to call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod after the flames have been put out. Call us anytime at 508-778-7378. We’re locally owned and operated in South Dennis.  We have the crucial knowledge and experience needed to restore your Cape Cod property from Mashpee to Provincetown. Together, we’ll work to make it, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO: We Have the Tools of the Trade...And Then Some!

3/29/2024 (Permalink)

The right products to restore water, fire & smoke damage make all the difference. Trust the Pros at SERVPRO!

Whatever your restoration needs are, we have a cleaning product for it. There’s no one size fits all solution here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. We have a specified plan of attack for every restoration project with hundreds of unique cleaning products to ensure every job is done right. We have dozens of specific cleaning products for each of the following categories:

• Water Damage
• Bioremediation
• Fire Damage
• Wall and Ceiling Cleaning
• Deodorization
• Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Stains/Spot Removal
• Hard Floor Care
• Contents/Misc. Cleaning
• Leather/Wood Furniture Cleaning

At SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod, you’re not just another restoration job. Every home or business has specific restoration needs and we understand that. We have hundreds of chemicals and strict usage procedures to ensure an unbeatable restoration quality. Having the right cleaning tools is especially important in the current Covid-19 environment. We only use the CDC recommended cleaning agents and methods for Covid-19 preventative cleanings. For your restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. We have the tools, the work ethic and the experience needed to get your restoration job done right. From Mashpee to Provincetown, call us at 508-778-7378 for 24-hour emergency services.

Mold Management on Cape Cod

3/29/2024 (Permalink)

Mold remediation services require some safety precautions. Our technicians wear personal protective equipment with respirators during treatment.

Mold thrives in damp environments, something with which Cape Cod is very familiar. Whether you're near the coast in Truro, a beach in Barnstable, or even mainland in Harwich, the potential for mold growth on the Cape is evident. Surrounded by water with higher than usual amounts of moisture potential, your home or business could be in danger of needing mold remediation services.  SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod wants you to know the warning signs of excessive mold and how we can help with your mold remediation needs.

You may have an ongoing moisture problem if you notice the following:

• Musty odors
• Higher than usual humidity
• Evidence of previous out of place moisture
• Visible Mold Spores

If you notice any of these signs in your home or building, you may need the aid of a professional cleanup & restoration crew. SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod can inspect your property for the signs of excessive mold growth and water damage. Trust your local SERVPRO® to deal with the special kinds of mold and water damage the homes on Cape Cod can experience. Call us anytime at 508-778-7378 to set up a free estimate.

Smoke or Fire Damage; Repair...Don't Replace.

3/29/2024 (Permalink)

Our expert technicians use a dry sponge technique to remove soot from the walls & ceilings in your home.

When fire strikes, the damage it causes can be overwhelming. A fire victim’s first instinct may be to preserve and clean whatever they can in an effort to salvage items of importance. However, attempting to clean the damage yourself can cause more harm than good. The cleanup and restoration experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape are here to help 24/7 in case of fire damage. Before fire restoration professionals arrive, be sure to take the following steps to prevent further damage from setting in:

• Limit movement around the house to prevent the spread of soot
• Place clean linens and towels on rugs and upholstery
• Coat chrome appliances with oil or petroleum jelly
• Keep furniture legs from touching wet carpet by wedging wood blocks or aluminum foil under them
• Do not shampoo carpets and upholstery
• Do not wash walls and other painted surfaces
• Do not clean electronic appliances
• Do not dry clean clothing with smoke odor

SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape cares about helping you recover from fire related tragedy and has the tools and expertise to help restore what’s important to you. From Mashpee to Provincetown, SERVPRO® has your home, business or organization covered for all your Fire cleanup and restoration needs. Give us a call at 508-778-7378, we’re here to help.

Fire Extinguisher Safety: P.A.S.S. It On!

3/22/2024 (Permalink)

A fire extinguisher in your home can help minimize fire damage in your Cape Cod home.

Do you follow safety guidelines and keep a fire extinguisher in your home? If so, are you certain you have the correct type to fight the fire? A fire extinguisher should be kept in your garage, kitchen, and on each floor of your home. Whether you already own one or are about to purchase one, learn about the different types of extinguishers for the application.

 Below are the four basic types of extinguishers:

• Class A extinguishers put out fires in ordinary combustibles, such as wood and paper.
• Class B extinguishers should be used on fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, and oil.
• Class C extinguishers are suitable for electrically energized fires.
• Class D extinguishers should be used on flammable metals and are typically specific for the type of metal in question.

Most home fire safety experts recommend medium size, multipurpose fire extinguishers that are labeled as suitable for use on class A, class B, and class C fires.

You and other potential users in your household should thoroughly read the extinguisher’s instructions on a periodic basis. A professional fire equipment supplier should inspect each extinguisher annually.

Only use a fire extinguisher if these four conditions are true:

Often times you’re much better off to let professionals handle any fire. Only use an extinguisher when:

1) the fire is confined to a small area, and is not growing

2) the room is not filled with smoke

3) everyone else has exited the building

4) the fire department has been called.

Remember the P.A.S.S. word!

Most household fire extinguishers operate using the following P.A.S.S. technique:

1. PULL: Pull the pin. This will also break the tamper seal.
2. AIM: Aim low, pointing the extinguisher nozzle (or its horn or hose) at the base of the fire.
3. SQUEEZE: Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
4. SWEEP: Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch the area. If the fire re-ignites, repeat steps 2 - 4.

If you have the slightest doubt about your ability to fight a fire.... EVACUATE IMMEDIATELY!

Important! Once the seal on a fire extinguisher has been broken, it must be serviced before the next use!

Appliances; The Unexpected Fire Hazard

3/19/2024 (Permalink)

Even the most unsuspecting appliance like a computer can cause fire damage in your Cape Cod home.

When thinking of home fire hazards, one might imagine an oven, a furnace, a fireplace, etc. But what about the dishwasher, refrigerator, or even your television? Our Team at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape has seen fire damage caused by many different unsuspecting electronics. Here are a few tips on how to make sure your home appliances are fireproofed:

• Check your power outlets: make sure power outlets aren't drawing too much power. Don't plug several high-current appliances into the same outlet.
• Keep your cords safe: make sure power cords aren't damaged, under furniture, under rugs or excessively tangled with other power cords.
• Use factory recommended chargers and cables: Many third-party phone cables and chargers are prone to overheating and even catching on fire. Check the power needs of your appliances and see if the charging cables you're using operate at the same voltage.
• Keep an eye on heat generating appliances: While its common knowledge to watch over items cooking in the kitchen and space heaters, be sure computers, game consoles and other appliances that give off heat have enough room to properly cool down.
• Make sure your appliances are properly maintained and up to date.
• Unplug small appliances when not in use.

Even when practicing fire safety properly, be sure to have an exit plan in case of a house fire. Create a designated meeting area for leaving the building and at least two points of exit for every room. If you fall victim to fire damage, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378, we are here to help!

Fire Damage Prevention in Dennis, MA

3/11/2024 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage require a professional restoration team.

In the event of a fire or furnace puffback incident, homeowners often try to remediate the damage themselves, causing further destruction to the residence. If your home suffers from a fire or smoke damage, no matter how big or small, seeking help from fire damage restoration professionals is always a smart choice. However, before professionals arrive, there are a few things you can do to prevent permanent damage from occurring. 

What to do when fire or smoke damage has occurred in your home:

• Limit movement around the house to prevent the spread of soot
• Place clean linens and towels on rugs and upholstery
• Coat chrome appliances with oil or petroleum jelly
• Keep furniture legs from touching wet carpet by wedging wood blocks or aluminum foil under them
• Refrain from shampooing carpets and upholstery
• Do not wash walls and other painted surfaces
• Do not clean electronic appliances
• Refrain from dry cleaning clothing with smoke odor

Our Team at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod are on call 24/7 for all your fire damage or smoke damage restoration needs. Call us at 508-778-7378 to schedule a free estimate or get emergency cleanup assistance as soon as you need it.  WE ARE HERE TO HELP! 

Have Rodents Moved in to your Chatham Home?

3/4/2024 (Permalink)

Rodent droppings are a Biohazard and can be a very messy job that is best left to the Professionals at SERVPRO.

Spring fever has officially struck here on Cape Cod. The excitement for nicer, warmer Cape Cod weather is noticeable this time of year. It’s the time of the year when unseasonably warm days have us yearning for the upcoming spring and summer season. However, these oddly warm days are smattered between stretches of freezing temperatures, reminding us of the winter headaches that are still upon us.  One such headache are the rodents that have taken up residence in your vacant home over the cold winter months.

Those who return to their Chatham vacation homes often must call an exterminator, as they’ve discovered rodents are living in their basements and crawlspaces. After an exterminator has done their job, there is still a list of biohazards left behind that require attention. Rodent droppings, urine, contaminated insulation and contaminated furniture are all on that list.

If rodents have damaged your basement, attic, crawlspace or any part of your home, call in our Team of professionals at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod.  Our state-of-the-art equipment and professional cleaning products will clean and disinfect your home leaving it fresh smelling, non-toxic and ready for Spring & Summer fun! 

CALL US TODAY AT 508-778-7378

Smoke Damage in your Dennis Home: Not as Visible as You’d Think

2/14/2024 (Permalink)

Smoke damage and soot will cling to every surface in your home and requires proper remediation.

Often times, on smoke removal jobs, the damage done to the residence or commercial building we're working on is worse than it seems to the untrained eye. Cleaning up after a smoky incident isn't just a matter of removing all visible black spots from walls and furniture. Soot from fires or furnace puffbacks often travels to every room in the affected home or building and settles on every surface even if it isn't immediately apparent. 

Smoke damage restoration includes:

• Emergency board-up & structural stabilization
• Evaluating materials that may be damaged as a result of smoke or soot particles
• Removing charred contents that may seal in smoke.
• Cleaning, eliminating odors and deodorizing surfaces

If your home or business has had a smoke event, attempting to restore your property yourself can do more harm than good.  The aftermath of a fire can be hazardous and cause health problems if it is not taken care of correctly and thoroughly.

Trust the experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to do the job right.  Call us 24/7 at 508-778-7378 for a free smoke removal estimate. From Mashpee to Provincetown, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is here to help with all your water mitigation, fire restoration, storm damage, cleaning, disinfection, and mold remediation needs.

Understanding the Categories of Water Damage in Your Hyannis Home

2/5/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage may look "clean" but may not actually be clean. Only the source will tell.

Just like any other mess, some water related incidents are larger than others. However, it’s not just the size of a water incident that determines how dire the situation is. Water incidents are broken up into three categories of severity. As a home or business owner, it’s important to be aware of these categories so swift and careful action can be taken to restore the property to its pre loss condition.

What kind of water damage emergency are you dealing with?

• Category 1: “Clean Water”. When a clean water supply line (such as a faucet, etc.) breaks or leaks, it is considered a category 1 water emergency. Depending on variables such as temperature and contact with contaminants, a category 1 situation can escalate to a category 2 or 3.

• Category 2: “Gray Water”. When flood water crosses the line into being contaminated and hazardous for human ingestion, it is considered category 2. This could include water from a washer machine, dishwater, etc. However, category 2 isn’t severe enough to include water infested with feces or harmful chemicals. If a category 2 flood is left untreated for long enough, it can develop into a category 3 situation.

• Category 3: “Black Water”. Flood waters that are considered, “grossly unsanitary” fall into category 3. This includes, but is not limited to, water that has started microbial growth, water with feces or natural flood waters from a river/stream. All contact with black water should be avoided and needs professional mitigation. If ingested, black water may cause serious adverse health effects.

If you find yourself in a water damage emergency and you are not sure how severe the damage is or can become, call our Team of professionals.  We are available 24/7/365 for all water emergencies, large or small.  We will help you identify the severity of the water damage and begin the mitigation process as quickly as possible.  SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is here to help! Call us at 508-778-7378

Water Mitigation in West Yarmouth

1/22/2024 (Permalink)

Our professional team and state-of-the-art equipment will dry out your home after a water damage emergency quickly & efficiently.

This West Yarmouth home had a major water leak in their bathroom.  Water traveled under the floors all throughout the home. Like many homeowners in the same or similar situation, they noticed oddly warped flooring through the house, indicating a possible water leak seeping under the floors. We had to tear up flooring and undergo extensive water mitigation. Using dehumidifiers, AirMax Air Movers and our own exclusive treatment products, we were able to perform a fast and effective mitigation process. To avoid ending up in this scenario, be aware of the tell-tale signs of water leakage:

• Visible mold
• Stains and discolorations on painted surfaces
• Warped flooring
• Dank/musty odors
• Higher than usual water bill, possibly pointing out a leak

From Mashpee to Provincetown, we're on alert 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for your water mitigation emergency. If you find yourself in a similar situation, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378.  We are HERE TO HELP®!

How SERVPRO will Handle Your Water Damage Emergency in Your Dennis Home

1/11/2024 (Permalink)

When you find yourself in a water emergency, TRUST our Team to get your life back as quickly as possible. WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

Stumbling upon a flooded basement or a water-logged living room carpet is always nerve wracking and surprising. When someone finds themselves in this situation, they’re typically at a loss when it comes to what to do first. With countless reconstruction and restoration companies on Cape Cod, how do you choose the right one when time is of the essence?

What do you want from a restoration company?

When looking for an emergency restoration company, you want one that is:

• quick to arrive
• will restore instead of replacing items in your home
• will get your life back to normal as soon as possible.

SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod can do all of this and more. Here are some reasons SERVPRO is your one-stop shop for all things water restoration:

We Arrive Faster Than the Rest: Unlike the competition, SERVPRO is ready for your emergency call 24/7. Almost immediately after your call, a full, professional crew will gear up and get ready to take care of your emergency within 24 hours.

We’ll Save You Money Compared to the Reconstruction Companies: Reconstruction companies will keep you waiting for weeks, letting damage set in further, causing more work to be done. The first 24 hours of a water emergency are the most important in terms of properly repairing your property.  Also, reconstruction companies will replace nearly everything effected by the water damage. At SERVPRO, we aim to restore damaged items and fixtures rather than replacing them. This saves the customer a great deal of money and helps to make their home look as if the water damage never even happened.

We’ll Get You Back Home ASAP: Our fast response times and efficient cleanup methods will have you back home in no time. We also restore water damaged contents, meaning you don’t have to lose your important belongings after a water disaster. With our advanced contents inventory system, we’ll make sure nothing of importance is forgotten or left behind, making your house feel like a home again.

If your Cape Cod home or business is in need of water restoration, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is on alert 24/7 for your needs. Give us a call at 508-778-7378 to set up a free estimate or to get emergency assistance within 24 hours.

Let SERVPRO Handle Your Disaster-Damaged Belongings

10/28/2021 (Permalink)

Protecting and maintaining your commercial property is on the top of every business owner's to do list

Deciding what to repair and what to replace after a storm or natural disaster is a vital safety issue. Doing it yourself is not recommended when it comes to power and gas. Electric and Gas appliances are affected by water, mud, smoke, soot and debris. Your appliances may appear to be fine on the outside, often what you can’t see is the larger problem. Mopping up the floors and cleaning the stainless fixtures isn’t enough when it comes to the inner workings of electric and gas appliances. Small particles, mud, and moisture trapped in the mechanical and motor components can cause further damage and even electrocution. Re-energizing your appliances that have been exposed to the elements can be deadly without proper reconditioning or replacement. Always call your local utility company for gas ranges, heater or clothes dryers. The proper inspection, cleaning, and sanitation process is always best left to the professionals.

It’s what you can’t see that’s dangerous when it comes to appliances and other electrical equipment.

You've been spared the three inches of water in the basement and the neighbor’s tree on your roof, but what about the danger and damage you can’t see? Power surges, excessive moisture and debris can damage the inner components, efficiency and safety of major appliances in your business -- as well as places you may not think of initially. Contamination and damage from mold and moisture will hurt your appliances and may potentially harm you. Moisture and particles wreak havoc on the working parts in the fine-tuned motors of home appliances. You should never try to take apart or fix these appliances yourself. They need to serviced, cleaned and sanitized professionally. If you’re in need of such a service, trust SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to get the job done right. Call us anytime at 508-778-7378 for your home restoration needs.

Puffback In Your Barnstable Home? Don't Panic!

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

Most of us are taking time now more than ever to clean our living spaces and make our homes as tidy and comfortable as possible. Furnace puffbacks can be the quickest way to completely derail the cleaning of your house, as it can cause filthy and heavily-staining soot to blow out of every heating vent in your home. Not sure of how to prevent this? Are you already a victim of a puffback? Either way, don’t panic! There are plenty of ways to detect impending puffbacks and SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod has the tools and expertise to thoroughly clean heavy soot incidents.

A puffback is the result of unburned oil at the bottom of boilers, furnaces and water heaters. These unburned oils can suddenly ignite, not only covering your house in soot, but also damaging your appliances. There are many signs that you may have unburned oil buildup, such as gas odors, leaking oil pipes, soot residue on or around the appliance, and weaker appliance performance. Be sure to service furnaces at least once a year to ensure proper functioning. However, if disaster strikes and you find yourself with a puffback disaster on your hands, SERVPRO® of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is here to help! From Barnstable to Provincetown, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape cod can service your water damage, fire damage, mold removal, disinfecting and soot removal needs. Call us at 508-778-7378

When There's Moisture, Mold's Right Around The Corner in your Cape Cod Home

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

Many homeowners throughout Barnstable County have experienced extensive water damage to their basements during the past few months. This could be due to cracks in their foundation, sump pump failures, high water tables, and much more. Heavy rain or unusually high tides produced by storms can spell bad news for a lot of homeowners who regularly experience water damage. If you begin to notice water/moisture in your basement, act quickly! Water damage can easily turn into mold issues and drastically increase the cost and time of restoration. It can be difficult to decide if drying the area can be self-resolved or needs professional attention. If this is a question you find yourself asking, it is best to go with the latter. A variety of issues can arise from attempting to self-dry your home after experiencing water damage. If the moisture is not dried quickly enough, there is a large possibility that mold growth could occur. If the moisture is dried in an adequate amount of time, but a dehumidifier is not set up, mold could begin to grow as well.

When it comes to water damage and preventing mold growth, call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Mid-Outer Cape Cod: 508-778-7378. We are here to help!

Carpet Water Damage: What you See Vs. The Reality

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

We have the equipment and expertise to properly remove deep water damage from your home or business's carpeting.

When large amounts of water seep into your carpet, the damage-causing potential is higher than it seems to be to the naked eye. You might’ve been able to dry your carpet after its been affected, but what about the water that’s seeped into the drywall, the subfloor, your baseboard and your floor padding? Untreated carpet water damage can lead to serious mold and mildew buildup. We here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod have seen plenty of instances of carpet water damage causing floorboard warping, mold, musty odors and structural damage. Here are some tips to keep your carpets safe from further damage after a spill or leak.

What to Do with a Water Damaged Carpet:

• Wipe dry all damp furniture
• Remove and air-dry wet cushions and upholstery
• Place aluminum foil between wood furniture and the flooring
• Turn the A/C on
• Remove any rugs from carpeting
• Move all art to a safe, dry area
• Remove loose items from floor

What NOT to Do:

• Do not use your household vacuum to suck up the water
• Don’t use electric appliances in the same room
• Don’t leave books, art or other colored items on the floor

If Your Carpet is Moldy:

• Stay away from the area
• Turn off HVAC and halt air movement
• Do not touch the mold
• Do not spray with bleach

A common mistake people make when attempting to restore a moldy carpet is grabbing a jug of bleach, scrubbing the mold and drying it with a fan. All three of these actions will only make the mold issue worse. First of all, bleach is only good for use on non-porous surfaces. On a porous surface, like a carpet, the bleach will only add more moisture for the mold to feed on. Also, drying the mold with a fan will only spread mold spores throughout the room, potentially causing health effects. If you see mold growing in your carpet, the best course of action is to leave it alone and seek professional restoration. If your Cape Cod home or business is in need of water restoration, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is on alert 24/7 for your needs. Give us a call at 508-778-7378 to set up a free estimate or to get emergency assistance within 24 hours.

Why SERVPRO: More Praise from Our Valued Customers!

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

We at SERVPRO strive to offer quality work and unmatched customer satisfaction with every job we do. We like to think our work speaks for itself, but when it comes to our performance, we think our customers say it best. For example, George from West Yarmouth said, “We had a great team. Phil did a phenomenal job addressing all our needs. He worked tirelessly to clean out our basement and ensure that our things were taken care of. He and his team made our loss experience bearable. Thank you so much” Also, Joe and Judy from Dennis said, “The workers have finished and all of the crew did an awesome job. Mike was so informative and helpful. To our questions and concerns. Everyone so respectful and it was nice to know that we could leave our home and that the trust we had in SERVPRO was justified. Thank you”

                SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is proud serve our local community and will always make sure no customer is left dissatisfied. If your home or commercial property is suffering from water, fire or mold damage, give us a call at 508-778-7378. We’re available 24/7 for emergencies and will work to make your situation, “Like it never even happened.”

The SERVPRO Difference

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

There's no shortage of restoration companies on Cape Cod, so why should you choose us? Here's a few ways we stand ahead of the competition, making SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod your one-stop shop for all things restoration:

• 24/7 Emergency Response: We're on call every hour, every day. We understand that disaster related emergencies can rarely wait. Getting your property and life back to normal ASAP is our top priority
• We Aim to Restore, Not Replace: We pretest every emergency to see what can be restored instead of replaced, saving you valuable time and money
• Highly Trained Staff: All team members at SERVPRO undergo training meeting the IICRC standards for water and fire restoration

SERVPRO may be a large, national company, but SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is a proud member of the community. We strive to be the best local fire, water, smoke and mold remediation business the Cape can offer. From Mashpee to Provincetown, call us at 508-778-7378 and we'll be happy to help.

Why Homeowners Should Leave Pest Cleanup to the Professionals

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

When homeowners discover pest infestations in their homes, their first instinct is usually to call an exterminator. This is definitely the right thing to do, but after the exterminator is gone, the job is far from over. Droppings, urine, damaged insulation, damaged infrastructure and many other unignorable issues are still left to be resolved. Another instinct homeowner have is to clean up and repair after all the pests are removed. However, for the sake of the property owner and the property itself, this is not likely to be the right thing to do. Rodent infestations are a very specific biohazard that must be treated as such.

So, what does SERVPRO do differently from homeowners and competitors? First, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is trained to safely remove animal related biohazards and dispose of them properly in accordance with OSHA and health regulations. Equipped with the necessary safety apparatus and cleaning products, we can help transform these unhealthy environments back into clean, safe homes and offices. Also, anytime animals stow away in your home, it’s more than likely that your insulation needs to be replaced. Trust SERVPRO to clean or replace your insulation fast, easily, affordably and efficiently. If you’re in need of a pest cleanup, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378 to set up your free estimate.

Dealing with a Burst Pipe in Your Cape Cod Home

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most stressful and common home disasters to strike during winter are frozen pipe burst. Every second a pipe is burst, the damage done to your home and belongings grows exponentially. We here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod have discussed frozen pipe prevention on our blog before, but what about after a pipe has burst? Before you or someone you know panics, only to make this kind of situation worse, follow these three universal steps for aiding in the mitigation of this kind of disaster.

1. Shut off the source of the water: It’s essential for all homeowners to know where their house’s main water valve is located. Knowing the location of all water valves not only prepares the homeowner for dealing with a burst pipe, but other water related disasters as well. For those living in apartments or other rented properties, be sure to contact your landlord immediately in order to shut off all appropriate valves. If the affected rooms have power outlets and electric appliances, cut off all power to the room to prevent the risk of electric shock.
2. Make sure insurance covers your disaster: Take notes and inventory of where the water damage is, what it’s damaged and where it came from. Prepared with this information, call your homeowner’s insurance agent to see if the damage is covered and who they recommend calling to professionally mitigate the disaster. At SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod, we’re on alert 24/7 to mitigate water damage related disasters and will work with your insurance company to make dealing with the situation as easy as possible.
3. Safely attempt to mitigate some of the water before help arrives: Use towels, wet/dry vacuums, buckets and mops to mitigate the water. Do NOT use a normal household vacuum to suck up water as it will destroy the appliance and put the user at high risk of electric shock. Also, if floors and carpets get dry to the touch, a professional mitigation company or repairman will still need to be called. Water leaks into drywall, floor padding, subfloor and many other areas only professionals can properly dry and repair.

A burst pipe can be an expensive and time-consuming fiasco. By following these 3 steps and calling SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod when disaster strikes, you can save time, money and the stress of further water damage. Call us any time at 508-778-7378 for 24/7 emergency restoration services. At SERVPRO, we’ll make it "Like it never even happened."

Frozen Pipe Prevention on Cape Cod

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

If you're in Barnstable, Provincetown, Eastham, Dennis, or any place in between, trust SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod for your water restoration needs.

We don’t have to tell you how harsh and unpredictable winters on Cape Cod can be. Ocean effect snow, unusual amounts of ice and nearly impossible to plow roads are just a few of the pains we all have to deal with as Cape Codders. This winter, be sure not to add frozen pipes to that list. As water freezes and expands during these cold winter months, water pipes in and around your house have the potential to burst, causing flooding and other forms of water damage. Fear not, preventing burst pipes is simple and will save you a great deal of repair expenses. We here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod have seen and cleaned up after quite a few burst pipes. Here’s what we wish we could’ve told those water damage victims before disaster struck:

• Be Sure You’re Insulated: Even if your pipes are indoors, some uninsulated parts of your house will reach freezing temps. Be sure your home is properly insulated this winter. Other benefits to checking on/updating your insulation are massive savings in energy costs and keeping your home comfortable temperature wise every season.
• Keep Your Home Temperate: When leaving the house, make sure your thermostat is set to at least 55 degrees. Many homeowners will set thermostats to below 55 when they leave the house in order to save money on natural gas and oil. However, the price of mitigating a water disaster runs much higher.
• Keep Air Circulating: By leaving kitchen cabinets and cabinets slightly open throughout the house, pipes fitted behind these areas will stay warm. Keeping houses completely shut up on the inside during the winter has the potential to make cold pockets that are dangerous for pipes.
• Leave Faucets Dripping: When temperatures are especially low, it may be wise to leave faucets dripping or slightly running to keep water in pipes from remaining stagnant. When water remains stagnant in your pipes, it has large amounts of freezing potential. Any sort of water movement will exponentially prevent a pipe burst.

If your pipes burst and the worst happens, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is available 24/7 for your emergency water restoration needs. Call us at 508-778-7378 and we promise to arrive faster to any size disaster and make it "Like it never even happened."

Thank You and Merry Christmas from SERVPRO

12/24/2020 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod would like to wish our community a safe and happy holiday season! During this season of giving and gratitude, we’d like to take a moment to appreciate our thoughtful and loyal customers who’ve shared some kind words and praise with us, something that we’re always grateful of. Charlie from Marston’s Mills said, “The service manager kept in constant contact with me and the insurance company, looking out for our best entirely. Communication, professionalism, friendliness and follow-up were all A-one. Great suggestions to keep with future problems and prompt service. Phillip was absolutely a class act service man - just the best!”.  

                Also, Susan from East Falmouth states, “I just wanted to thank you and your crew for an exceptional job. I can even see that the walls are brighter. I especially appreciated the excellent communication skills you exhibited. Haven't run into that very often. I will recommend you to anyone I can.” At SERVPRO, we take pride in putting the customer’s needs first. We also take pride in being able to serve the great people of our strong community every day. With their kind words, our customers give us the greatest gift of all; knowing that we were able to exceed their expectations and leave behind a job well done. For all of your fire, disinfection, mold, cleaning and water restoration needs, know that SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is on alert 24/7 for your emergency needs. Thanks to all of our loyal customers. We’re excited to serve you this holiday season and for years to come.

Home Restoration Myths

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Ever stumble upon a large mess or home emergency and immediately think, “how much is this going to cost me?” We’ve all been there. Most homeowner’s first instinct is to try to take care of the situation themselves to save time and money. This has led to the rise of common home cleaning and repair myths that, in reality, cause more harm than good. From mold to water-logged carpets, if there’s a home cleaning or repair problem, there’s a hair brained home remedy for it. We here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod aren’t saying all of this in order to encourage more customers to use our services. In actuality, calling professionals instead of using these home remedy myths will save homeowners time, money and will ensure that the problems won’t persist. Here are a few home remedies you should be sure to avoid:

• Myth: Bleach will kill most types of mold. The Truth: bleach is only useful for killing mold on non-porous, solid services. In other words, If the mold isn’t on a stone counter-top, bleach won’t do anything except feed the mold problem. If you carefully read the warning section of any mold bottle, you’ll see that mold isn’t meant for porous surfaces. These porous surfaces include drywall, carpets, wooden surfaces, furniture, clothes, bedding, etc. If any of these moldy surfaces are scrubbed or soaked in bleach, it will only add more moisture to the problem and feed the mold, making the problem larger than it was in the first place.
• Myth: Dishwashers and clothing washing machines clean themselves through normal usage. The Truth: Washing machines, both in the kitchen and laundry room, need to be properly cleaned about once a month. Both dishwashers and washing machines build up mineral deposits and other harmful residues that need to be removed manually. However, self-cleaning these machines is easy if done monthly. Running these machines with specialized appliance cleaning agents will do the trick.
• Myth: Smoke damage can be cleaned with dish soap or vinegar. The Truth: Smoke damage is very tricky to fully remove. If not properly removed, smoke damage will permanently discolor walls, china, furniture, clothes and internally destroy electronics. Using soap on smoke damaged fixtures and furniture may cause the smoke to set in further, making it harder to properly remove. It’s highly recommended that a professional restoration company should be called to take care of smoke damage for you’re the sake of repairing your house and for your own safety. Uncleaned and permanently set-in soot damage can make your living space less habitable in terms of air quality and appliance safety.
• Myth: Shop Vacuums will clean up and dry water-logged carpets. The Truth: When water sets into a carpet, it sets into several other parts of your home as well. Not only does your carpet get soaked, but so does the subfloor, drywall, floor padding and baseboard. If a large amount of water is soaked into a carpet, professional water mitigation will be needed to prevent mold growth. If mold ends up growing on a carpet, scrubbing it away will only temporarily remove the appearance of mold. Meanwhile, mold will be spreading under the carpet and will appear on the surface again and again. The only way to prevent this is professional dehumidification and chemical treatment.

Next time you try a home remedy for your home restoration needs, do some research and make sure that it’s safe. If not, the restoration experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod are here to help. You can reach us 24/7 at 508-778-7378. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we’re faster to any size disaster. If you need disinfection, fire, water, storm or mold restoration, trust SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."

Does The Musty Odor in My Dennis, MA House Mean I have Mold?

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

An early indication of mold can be an odor described as ‘musty’ and although it may not be as strong as a moldy odor, it is a good idea to try to find the source quickly to avoid the health effects that mold can cause. Mold spores are everywhere in our environment and although it occurs naturally and is part of nature’s cleanup of decomposing organic matter, we certainly don’t want to find elevated levels of mold in our homes.

A few places to check for potential mold-friendly environments:

• Water leaks – plumbing, roof, walls, basement
• Air conditioning units or drain lines
• Materials that have been wet (newspapers, books, carpets, etc.)

Mold thrives in a moist, humid environment so keeping your home dry by making sure leaks are repaired quickly and the area is thoroughly dried, reducing humidity by running a dehumidifier in areas that tend to be damp – like our Barnstable County basements – are good ways to prevent mold growth.

If you do find mold in your home, SERVPRO® of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is here to help! Call us at 508-778-7378.

Autumn is Around the Corner, Be Sure to Prevent Puffback

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

As summer is coming to a close, the time to turn heaters back on is approaching at a fast pace. With furnaces kicking back on soon, the chance of a puffback incident is once again a threat. So, you may be thinking, “What is a puffback?”. A puffback is when a boiler or furnace misfires, causing your home to fill with soot and smoke. These misfires are caused by unburned oils at the bottom of furnaces and boilers suddenly igniting. Preventing a puffback is important as the soot and smoke emitted by these incidents are notoriously hard to clean up after. Puffbacks will damage and corrode electronics, permanently stain painted surfaces and cause a myriad of health concerns. However, puffbacks are avoidable if you stay on alert for the warning signs of an impending incident.

                Look for The Signs: There are many telltale signs of an impending puffback. First, if soot-like residues are appearing on or around a furnace, its time to have it serviced by a professional. Also, if dark cobweb-like webs start to form around your heating appliance, your furnace may have been puffing back for a long time, meaning it may need to be replaced or serviced. Other signs of an impending puffback are gas odors, leaking oil pipes, and weaker appliance performance. Regardless of the warning signs, be sure to get furnaces serviced and maintained at least once a year.

                What to do After a Puffback: Even though puffbacks CAN be devastating doesn’t mean they HAVE to be. If a puffback occurs, don’t panic. The worst possible thing a puffback victim can do is to try and take cleanup matters into their own hands with any experience. Trying to clean the soot with soap and water or bleach will cause the soot residue to set into household items more, making it harder to properly clean. Soot and smoke damage needs to be cleaned with certain specific chemicals with the aid of a dry chemical sponge. Consider hiring a professional fire and smoke restoration company to do the job right and prevent further harm to your home and health.

                If your home or workplace suffers from a puffback, give SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod a call anytime at 508-778-7378. We specialize in fire, smoke and soot restoration and will make your property look "Like it never even happened." From Mashpee to Provincetown, We’re on alert 24/7 for your fire, water, mold, cleaning and disinfecting needs.

How to Prevent Electrical Fires at Home

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

The devastating and sudden nature of electrical fires is unmatched by any other household fire accident. Electrical fires can be unpredictable, striking whenever an appliance or wire decides to malfunction. However, these instances are very preventable. With all the appliances running during this sweltering summer season, its very important that you follow these helpful tips and avoid disaster. However, no matter what season is, these tips may just save your home, belongings and even your life. Here’s a look at the various hazards around your house and how to deal with them responsibly.

• Air Conditioners
  • A/Cs Draw a Lot of Electric Current: Air conditioners use more electricity than most other appliances. For this reason, make sure they have their own outlets. Plugging A/Cs into extension cords or power strips may cause outlets draw too much current and start a fire. Also, make sure your A/C power cord is up to date and has a power reset button in case your unit’s power shorts out.
  • Limit A/C Usage: Somedays, it’s hard to go through the summer heat for even a minute without the aid of an A/C. This leads many homeowners leaving their units on 24/7. This habitual usage can lead to outlets and appliances catching fire while the owners are either sleeping or away. Turn off A/Cs for a few hours a day or use other cooling methods like fans when possible.
  • Make Sure You’re Up to Date: Air Conditioners get more dangerous with age. If Air Conditioners aren’t serviced regularly or replaced every few years, they’re highly likely to malfunction. If your unit is constantly tripping circuits, needing to be unplugged, heavily leaking or making more noise than usual, replacement or repair may be needed.

• Lamps and Other Lighting
  • Lighting and Lamps, The Leading Cause of Electrical Fires: For many reasons, lamps are a huge, but seemingly innocent, hazard. If your lamp is constantly tripping circuits, gives off a burning plastic smell when turned on or only works intermittently, stop using the lamp and seek a replacement.
  • Check Lightbulb Wattage: Check the factory recommended wattage requirements for your lamps and lighting fixtures. ONLY use lightbulbs that require the same wattage. While this seems like common sense, many people cause fires by replacing dead bulbs with whatever possibly unsafe new bulbs they may have lying around

• Power Cords
  • Be Careful with Extension Cords: Extension cords can come in handy, but can also cause a lot of destruction if not used right. A few things to avoid when using extension cords include using them with high-wattage appliances, using a cord with exposed wiring and plugging extension cords into power strips.
  • Don’t Overuse Outlets: Every outlet can only handle a certain amount of electric current. Exceed this current, and you run the risk of tripping circuits and destroying outlets. Make sure all of your appliances have the factory or manufacturer recommended power cords.
  • Invest in Surge Protectors: If you need a large number of outlets with very few installed in your home, investing in a surge protector is the way to go. They handle high voltage better than a standard power strip and protect against sudden power surges, keeping your outlets and appliances safe.

• Old Appliances
  • Signs You Need to Contact Your Landlord/An Electrician: As appliances age, they’ll give some warning signs that they are either failing or hazardous. Contact an electrician or your landlord if you see any of the following signs:
    • Sparking outlets
    • Flickering lights
    • Warm or discolored outlets
    • Burning rubber smell
    • Constantly blown fuses

If Your Home Suffers an Electrical Fire: If the worst-case scenario happens and an electrical fire breaks out, shut the power to your home off immediately. If you suffer from fire or smoke damage, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378. We’re on alert for your fire damage and smoke removal emergencies 24/7. From Mashpee to Provincetown, trust us to make it "Like it never even happened."

How to Clean Up after an Air Conditioner Leakage in Your Barnstable Home

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

During this summer heat, our air conditioners have been working overtime. During hot times like this A/Cs will often be left on 24/7 to keep our homes cool and comfortable. However, there’s nothing relaxing about coming home to a massive air conditioner leakage on your hardwood or carpeted floor. Both window and standing units have potential to cause disastrous leaks. For window unit A/Cs, make sure they’re fastened into the window sill with the back grate facing slightly downwards. This will often redirect all leakages outside of the house. For standing units, place a towel beneath the unit. At the first sign of the towel becoming damp from leakage, turn off the A/C and attempt to resolve the issue.  Check the unit’s instruction manual to see proper draining techniques. If you find yourself in an A/C leakage related disaster, follow these helpful tips.

Leakage on Hardwood

• Why Hardwood Leaks are Different from Carpet Leaks: When water leaks onto hardwood flooring, it causes what’s known as, “cupping”. Cupping is when the unfinished underside of floorboards warp due to water absorption. If the floor is only minorly warped at the seams, you can either hire a water mitigation company to quickly return them to normal, or wait up to a year for the boards to naturally dry and flatten out. This can be aided through the use of fans and dehumidifiers.
• How to Deal with Heavy Water Damage: If the cupping of your floorboards is so severe that nails and other fasteners start to lift off of the floor, a professional water mitigation company will be needed to dry and replace the floorboards. At the point of severe cupping, the damage has likely set into the subfloor, walls, etc. Leaving these areas untreated may cause permanent damage.

Leakage on Carpet

• Dealing with water leakage on Carpets: Cleaning up water from carpeting is a much more complicated and involved process than hardwood. Not only does water leak into the carpet, it leaks into the Baseboard, drywall, padding and subfloor. Not properly drying carpets will most likely cause deep and dangerous mold damage. Use fans, wet-dry vacs and dehumidifiers to dry. Do not use a household vacuum to suck up water.
• If mold appears on your carpet, don’t use bleach to attempt to remove it. Bleach is good at removing mold from non-porous surfaces like walls, but will not work on porous areas like carpets. For moldy carpets, limit the air flow in the room and make sure to run a dehumidifier. Call a professional restoration company to take care of the rest. In many cases, the carpet may need to be replaced at this point.

When it comes to repairing water damaged floors, taking shortcuts will only lead to more headaches in the future. Make sure you do it right the first time. If your home or business has suffered water damage from an Air conditioner leak, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. We’re ready for your call 24 hours a day at 508-778-7378. Trust us to treat your floors right and get you back home or back to work faster than the competition. We’ll work to make it "Like it never even happened."

A Closer Look: Brewster, MA Home Water Remediation

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can be unsuspecting, damaging your home slowly over time without you even knowing. For this Brewster home, the living room windows were slowly leaking into the floor. Because of this, every rain storm, no matter how small, caused more and more unseen water damage. Upon replacing their floors, these homeowners were surprised to see the damage and called SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to quickly remediate the situation. Because of our fast and thorough service, this Brewster home can go on with their floor renovations as planned with little interruption. If you don’t want to end up finding hidden water damage like this Brewster home, be on the lookout for the following:

• Visible mold
• Stains and discolorations on painted surfaces
• Warped flooring
• Dank/musty odors
• Higher than usual water bill, possibly pointing out a leak

If your Brewster home or business is in need of water damage repair or water mitigation, call the restoration experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. We’re on alert 24/7 for your water restoration emergency needs. Call us at 508-778-7378 to set up a free estimate anywhere from Mashpee to Provincetown.

A Closer Look: Water Damage in Chatham, MA

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Appliances can fail at any given time, causing your home or commercial business a great deal of damage. This Chatham, MA home went through that exact problem. A toilet water supply line burst on the second floor of the home and flooded the entire main level. A technician from SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod removed the wet hardwood flooring from the kitchen in order to properly dry the subfloor and structure. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, here are some helpful tips if you find yourself in a similar situation:

• Shut off the source of the leak
• Shut off circuit breakers for water-logged areas
• Mop up excessive water to the best of your ability
• Remove lamps/electronics from tables and wipe water off of wooden furniture
• Remove and dry wet cushions
• Lift furniture legs off of wet carpets with tin foil or wood blocks
• Move items vulnerable to water to a safer place

Need water restoration? We’re here to restore your home or commercial building at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we’re on call 24/7 for your water restoration emergency. Call us any time at 508-778-7378.

Defend Against Mold Growth

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has a water/moisture problem, take care of it before mold has time to grow

Coming home to your summer property or going back to your place of business soon? You might be shocked to find mold growth may have taken place while you were gone! If this is the case, don't hesitate to call your local mold remediation experts to your property. If you don't see mold growth, you still might have be at risk for a nasty infestation. If you'd like to keep your property safe, be sure to follow these helpful mold prevention tips:

• Keep humidity levels between 30 and 60 percent
• Make sure you have proper drainage away from building foundations
• Inspect appliances and plumbing for leaks
• Keep drains and gutters debris-free
• Make sure water can't enter through roofing, windows or other leak-prone areas
• Take care of any leakages/water-related incidents ASAP
• If excessive mold growth or water intrusions occur, call a mold remediation/water mitigation expert

If you're in need of water mitigation or mold remediation, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378. We're on alert 24/7 for all of your emergency restoration needs, from Mashpee to Provincetown.

Dealing with a Harmful Waste Incident: The Signs, The Dos, and The Don’ts

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

If you suffer from a sewage backup like in this Orleans property, call the cleanup and restoration experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod

We deal with all sorts of emergency restoration and remediation jobs here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod, even the ones people don’t like to talk about. We’ve seen and carefully dealt with harmful waste incidents at numerous homes and commercial buildings. These backups can range anywhere from large, noticeable intendents that professional crews have to trudge through, to unnoticed sewage seepages under floorboards or crawlspaces. By staying vigilant in spotting the signs of sewage buildup, you may be able to spare yourself from a messy and potentially harmful sewage disaster. Here are some of the more subtle signs of a backup:

• Multiple drain backups
• Multiple drain clogs
• Improperly flushing toilets that can’t be plunged
• Excessive water bubbling when draining water
• Increasing foul waste-like odors

 If you find yourself with a sewage backup in your home or office, follow these helpful dos and don’ts:

Do:

• Stay away from affected areas
• Treat all fluids as if they were contaminated
• Call emergency services if the situation is life threatening

Don’t:

• Attempt any kind of cleanup
• Touch any items that may be contaminated

If you fall victim to a hazardous sewage backup, don’t hesitate to call the cleanup professionals at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we’re on guard 24/7 for all of your emergency cleanup and restoration needs. Call us at 508-778-7378 to set up a free estimate or get an emergency cleanup crew within 24 hours.

Get Your Business Ready for Re-Opening with a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaning

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

With business re-openings on the horizon, many businesses and customers have questions about what the, “new normal” for cleanliness standards will be. The definition of what it means to be a clean, sanitary business has changed forever in the wake of Covid-19. Employees may be hesitant to return to work and customers may not trust the establishments they patronize to be up to the new cleanliness standards. We here at SERVPRO of Mid Outer Cape Cod have a solution, the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program.

A Certified: SERVPRO cleaning is specialized disinfection SERVPRO offers to commercial locations tailored to meet the needs of a business during and post Covid-19. Our cleaning goes well beyond the scope of a traditional janitorial cleaning. We target high-touch surfaces with the CDC recommended chemicals and cleaners that stop the spread of pathogens in its tracks. Our program is based on what we call the 3 C’s:

Consult: We’ll send a Cleaning Protocol Consultant to your business to identify your commercial building’s specific and unique disinfecting needs. Your program will be created based on factors including business type, size, amount of high frequency touch points, foot traffic and congestion points. We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all cleaning, we offer a carefully curated plan of attack that’ll get your business ready to serve the general public.

Clean: Based on your business’s specific needs, we’ll get to work disinfecting your home or business while strictly following protocol set forth by the CDC. With over 100 exclusive cleaning products at our disposal, we have the right tools of the trade to disinfect your unique property. If your property has a suspected or confirmed Covid-19 event, we’ll clean it in less than 24 hours to get you safely back in business as soon as possible.

Certify: After your property has been expertly cleaned, you’ll have access to digital and physical signage letting customers know you’ve been professionally disinfected by SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. This will ensure your customers that your place of business is safe and ready for action. We include the date of service on the signage to let customers know you’re up to date and on top of your cleanliness game.

If your home or business could benefit from a proactive or post Covid-19 exposure disinfection, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod. We’re on alert 24/7 for your emergency disinfection needs. From Mashpee to Provincetown, give us a call at 508-778-7378 to set up your free estimate or request emergency disinfection.

Trust SERVPRO To Restore and Repair Your Fire Damaged Home on Cape Cod

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

What you do with your property during the first 48 hours after a fire determines how much of your home needs to be restored or replaced. We here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod have years of experience in fire restoration and smoke removal. Be it a fire, smoke or puffback incident, we have the expertise needed to get you back to your home in a safe, timely and inexpensive manner. No matter what kind of fire-related incident strikes your Cape Cod home, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape cod has a carefully planned course of action for restoring homes from most every disaster.

Puffback: A puffback is the result of unburned oil at the bottom of boilers, furnaces and water heaters. These unburned oils can suddenly ignite, not only covering your house in soot, but also damaging your appliances, furniture, drapes and virtually everything in your home. If you fall victim to Puffback, don’t attempt to clean/shampoo the smoke damage out of your home, as this may cause the damage to further set in and become impossible to get out. Call a professional restoration service to assess the damage and determine a plan of action that’s best for your situation

Fire: At SERVPRO, with every disaster we deal with, our aim is to restore as much of a damaged property as possible to avoid the costs and hassle of replacing damaged items and fixtures. Fire related disasters are no different. Many things factor into repairing a fire damaged home, such as restoring items that suffered from water damaged due to extinguishing, smoke damage that spread to places that can’t be seen by the untrained eye, and transforming the property back into a livable environment. As experts in most every restoration field, we have the knowledge and technology to tackle anything fire damage throws your way.

Soot and Smoke: Anything from gradual smoke damage or heavy soot damage from a fire are all in SERVPRO’s restoration wheelhouse. We have the tech, the proper chemicals and the training to take on smoke damage, making it "Like it never even happened." More often than not, smoke and soot damage effects more of the house than can be seen. In the event of smoke or soot damage, call a professional restoration company to test your property to see exactly where smoke damage is hiding and how to properly remove it.

For your fire and smoke restoration needs, trust SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to get the job done right. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we’re on alert 24/7 to restore most any fire or smoke damage emergency. Call us at 508-778-7378 to set up your free estimate today.

Does Your Cape Cod Home Have A Mold Problem?

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

As the humidity rises, be on alert for signs of mold growth in your home. Managing your mold before the hot summer months will save you time and money all while improving the overall health of both you and your home. Any intrusion of water into your home, be it large or small, has the potential to create a large mold problem. Using the old trick of adding one cup of bleach to a gallon of water and using it to scrub the mold only takes care of mold on the surface level. More often than not, if you discover your home has a mold problem, you’ll likely need to call mold remediation experts. If your home has a moisture problem, be on the lookout for the following:

• Visible mold presence
• Musty odors
• Evidence of past moisture problems
• Unusual humidity

If you notice any of these signs for potential mold in your home, you may need professional assistance. Trust the mold remediation experts at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to expertly remove your mold problem fast and completely. Call us anytime at 508-778-7378. From Mashpee to Provincetown, we’re on alert 24/7 to clean and restore.

Cape Cod Fire Restoration: The SERVPRO Difference

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

The Cape has no shortage of fire restoration experts that a victim of puffback or smoke damage can choose from. We here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod are aware that there's plenty of competition out there, that's why we go the extra mile to be your one-stop shop for your fire restoration needs. We quickly remove fire, soot or smoke damage through our one-of-a-kind restoration process:

Pretesting

We start the cleaning and restoration process by thoroughly pretesting the property. This allows us to determine which restoration process will be best for your home or business. This also allows the customer to preview our results.

Contents Claim Inventory Service

We use Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) technology to generate hyper-accurate inventories for every room. We organize the contents of your home into three categories: salvageable, non-salvageable and questionable. Our goal is to restore as much of the damaged parts of your home as possible, rather than wasting valuable time and money replacing everything. 

Cleaning and Restoration

SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod will professionally deodorize and clean all restorable contents and structure to their preloss conditions. Our fire restoration expertise includes restoring ceilings, walls, furniture, rugs, upholstery, drapery, electronics, art and many more items susceptible to fire damage. In cases of emergency restoration, SERVPRO will prioritize the cleaning of contents that the customer needs immediately. 

Move Outs

In the event that a customer needs to be moved out due to extensive damage, trust our professionals to move you out and keep a 100% accurate contents inventory during the process. 

In the event of fire damage, smoke damage and puffbacks, trust SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod to restore your home or business. We're on alert 24/7 to help with your restoration needs. From Mashpee to Provincetown, call us anytime at 508-778-7378 to schedule an estimate or get emergency restoration assistance.

Keep Your Daycare Safe Post Covid-19

4/23/2020 (Permalink)

Daycare centers will, without a doubt, be one of the most important industries in terms of revitalizing the economy. We at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod appreciate those who care for the children of our nation's workers. Here are some tips for daycare centers still currently open and those who plan on reopening in the near future.

• Safer Drop-off and Pick-up Procedure

At the entrance of your daycare, be sure to have hand cleaning options for children to use before entering the building. A hand washing station with soap and water or sanitizer station will do. Be sure to have disinfectant wipes ready for cleaning door handles, sign-in pens, etc. Also, limit direct contact with parents by having a designated staff member or parent volunteer to escort children to and from their cars and the classroom.

• Classroom Social Distancing

Limit the roster of child care classes to include the same group of kids and same group of staff everyday to prevent new opportunities for harmful pathogens to enter the environment. Also, be sure to time activities so that different groups of children are separated and don't constantly mix. This includes having separate and consistent groups engaging in art programs, recess, and music programs at staggered times.

• Be Sure Your Workers and Children Are Healthy

Make sure all staff and children with Covid-like symptoms and illness stay home without exception. Be constantly on the lookout for children or staff members with a dry cough, sore throat, and cold/flu like symptoms. If anyone appears to be suffering from these symptoms, separate them from the rest of the group until they can be sent home. Be sure to have a backup plan in case a staff member needs to be replaced due to illness and monitor staff absenteeism. If any staff members are at a higher risk of contracting the virus due to age or pre-existing conditions, consult with a medical professional to determine if they should stay home.

These tips and many more can be found on the CDC website (cdc.gov). If your daycare center is in need of a pathogen-targeting disinfection, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is here 24/7 to help. We also provide fire, smoke, water, storm and mold damage repair services. Call us at 508-778-7378 with any questions or to schedule an appointment.

Get Your Restaurant Ready With SERVPRO

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

There's never been a stranger time to be a restaurant. From going takeout-only to completely closing, the way food is served and the way we eat has completely changed. Whatever your restaurant's current situation is and whatever the future holds for it, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is here 24/7 to keep your eatery operating as clean and safely as it can be. SERVPRO knows the extensive health codes and food safety regulations that restaurants need to adhere to, letting us give your restaurant the most thorough and thoughtful disinfection on the market.

However, we offer more than disinfection. If your restaurant is suffering from mold damage, fire damage, smoke damage, water damage or storm damage, SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape has the tools and expertise to make it "Like it never even happened." Call us at 508-778-7378 any time of the day, any day of the week and let us know how we can help you.

Preparing Your Commercial Business For Recovery

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Whether your business is essential and open or closed by mandate, your business will likely have adequate to booming traffic after Covid-19 is conquered. Before we resume life as usual, be sure your commercial property is ready to serve your valued clients again. SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod offers commercial water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, storm damage restoration and professional disinfection services.

SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod can do what it takes to prevent the interruption of business in your company. With SERVPRO's long history of dealing with contaminants, we are equipped with hospital grade cleaners to clean your business to CDC recommended standards. We go beyond the scope of what janitorial services can do and target high-touch surfaces, preventing the spread of pathogens.

If any other unexpected disasters strike your commercial property, SERVPRO can also be of great service. Fire, water, storm and mold damage are also in our wheelhouse of mitigation and remediation expertise. If you want your commercial property back in fighting shape, call SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod at 508-778-7378.

A Thank You to the Community from SERVPRO

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

We here at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod would like to thank everyone in our community for coming together and doing their part to create a safe environment during the current outbreak of Coronavirus. Across Cape Cod, these efforts can help immensely and should not go unnoticed. Restaurants have closed their dining rooms, schools are going completely digital, Police and Fire Departments are protecting the community despite the new risks, and our very own neighbors are practicing social distancing and other precautions. Countless other business and organizations are sacrificing time and resources in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Whether your business or organization wants to reduce the risk of spreading this disease or needs help getting back to the cleanliness needed for fully operating in the future, SERVPRO is here to help. SERVPRO has all the right tools for your cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting needs. Our team uses hospital-grade disinfectants that meet the CDC requirements for cleaning certain pathogens and viruses, which have also been approved by the EPA. We also use proper personal protective equipment for the safety of both your team and ours. SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod wants to help you take necessary sanitation precautions during these uncertain times.

We’re proud to serve this strong and persevering community and offer our sincere gratitude to all those whose efforts continue to keep us safe and unified. If you need to put your best foot forward to ensure cleanliness, SERVPRO is here to help.

Coronavirus: Disinfect, Sanitize, Proactive Cleaning

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Stop the spread of germs with a proactive cleaning for your home or business - we are here to help!

At SERVPRO® of Mid-Outer Cape Cod, we are closely monitoring the COVID-19 / Coronavirus situation. We have professional, trained, and certified technicians ready and able to handle any specialty cleaning needs for your business. We can clean, sanitize, and disinfect your structure, surfaces and contents to help reduce the spread of viruses and pathogens.

Our team uses hospital-grade disinfectants that meet the CDC requirements for cleaning certain pathogens and viruses, which have also been approved by the EPA. We also use proper personal protective equipment for the safety of our team and yours.

We at SERVPRO of Mid-Outer Cape Cod and are taking the COVID-19 / Coronavirus outbreak very seriously and are here to help with any of your cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting needs.

Is it Covered?

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Review Your Homeowners Insurance Before Disaster Strikes

Most of us feel comfortable in the knowledge that we have an insurance policy that will cover major disasters like a fire or water damage.  Not all disasters, however, are created equal in the eyes of your insurance company. It is a good idea to check with your agent about what is and isn’t covered.  You may want to consider purchasing additional coverage.

 Although most standard homeowners policies provide coverage for water damage resulting from broken pipes, the policy usually does not cover flood damage from storm surges during hurricanes, overflowing rivers, and sewer backups. Consider purchasing a sewer backup supplement to your homeowners policy before you experience the impact sewage backup can cause to your property. Flood insurance is a separate policy that your provider can purchase through the NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program).

When was the last time you reviewed your homeowners insurance policy?

Simple Fire Safety Tips

10/23/2019 (Permalink)

October is Fire Prevention Month! Did you know that in 1922 the National Fire Protection Association designated the second week of October as Fire Prevention Week to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871? Over the years, October has been designated as Fire Prevention Month - dedicated to raising fire safety awareness to communities across the United States. As we come to the close of Fire Prevention month, here are a few simple fire safety tips for every household that we should follow  every month!

• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children or in a cabinet with a child lock.

• Candle caution! Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Do not leave candles burning when you are not in the room or when going to sleep! Consider using the battery-operated candles that look like they have a real flame, without the risks.

• Space heaters need space! Leave at least three feet between the heater and anything that can burn. Turn them off when leaving the room, and do not leave them running when going to sleep! Never use a space heater in the bathroom – water and electricity are a hazardous mix!

• Inspect electrical cords – replace cords that are damaged, frayed, or have broken plugs.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.

If your home is damaged by fire or smoke, it is critical to contact a company certified in Fire and Smoke Remediation as soon as possible to prevent additional damage. Your locally-owned SERVPRO® of Mid-Outer Cape Cod is available 24/7 to help you through the cleanup process and minimize the cost of fire and smoke damage to your home. Call us at 508-778-7378 - we are here to help!

Nor'Easters on The Cape

3/2/2017 (Permalink)

Need help securing your Cape Cod property? We have the experience, expertise, and training to handle any size job! Call us at (508)778-7378

It’s always better at the beach, even in New England where the weather could change in a minute.

Nothing quite changes a Mother’s Day brunch or High School graduation like the whipping winds and heavy rains of a Nor’Easter. While most Nor’Easters happen between September and April, storms in the Atlantic can bring in a deluge of water, wind, and damaging coastal flooding in the warmer months too. Regularly maintaining your home and keeping your yard clean of debris is always the first defense in preventing storm damage. Keeping an emergency kit of supplies and knowing the route of evacuation for your community is essential.

Our highly trained technicians are ready to respond immediately to prepare your home against upcoming storms.

The Surface vs The Suspect

2/26/2017 (Permalink)

Kitchen mold and damage can run deep.

Sounds like a Struggle? The Struggle is Real!

Water damage, mold, fireplaces and pet traffic are the first things that come to mind when odor problems arise or won’t go away. Keeping your home dry and clean is the best, most efficient first measure of prevention.

Surface cleaning works fantastic to remove dust and visible debris from areas. Offensive smells get trapped in the porous materials in your home; carpets, walls and just about everywhere. When swiffering and running the vacuum isn’t cutting it, call the professional odor removal experts.

If you find mold or suspect that you may have a mold problem, stay out of the affected area and call SERVPRO of The Mid and Outer Cape.

Remember, every mold damage scenario is different, and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. 

In these uncertain cases no matter how small the issue may seem. It is always best to call a professional cleaner. 

Storm Prep

1/13/2017 (Permalink)

Wind can bring down trees and shingles, rain often causes water damage and a Nor’Easter has the potential for severe damage from all the elements.

Protecting your property from storm damage is and should be on every homeowners mind. Particularly in Massachusetts, where we never know what’s coming next!

Heavy rains, wind, and blizzards can wreak havoc on any property. Wind can bring down trees and shingles, rain often causes water damage and a Nor’Easter has the potential for severe damage from all the elements. Protect yourself and your property by securing your landscape and keeping your trees properly pruned and free from damage.

Check your house regularly for: loose gutters, shingles, cupolas, or anything else that could potentially fly off in a storm. Check your attic and basement for leaks before a big storm hits and properly repair and seal those areas that may need extra care.

Should you find yourself in a position where your home has been hit hard by a Coastal Storm or a Nor'Easter, call SERVPRO at 508-778-7378

As water and storm damage specialists, we have the experience and advanced training that enables us to restore your property quickly. We use scientific drying principles and provide validation and documentation that your property is dry and the job is complete.