Fire Causes for Homewood

9/25/2024 (Permalink)

Fire Causes of Homewood 

Every 20 seconds in the United States, a fire department is responding to a fire somewhere. While your home is where you should always feel safe, it can also be a dangerous place if a Homewood fire occurs. In fact, four out of five fire-related fatalities occur in the home. However, if you are aware what causes a potential fire that could lead to severe Flossmoor fire damage in your home, you may be able to prevent the fire from occurring in the first place. Below are some of the main factors that can cause a residential fire. 

One of the major causes of Homewood fire-related deaths is smoking materials such as cigarettes and other tobacco products. About 800 people die annually in the U.S. because of careless handling of cigarettes in the home. Typically, smoking material that is forgotten or carelessly discarded ignites trash, furniture or bedding. Most of the deadly smoking-related fires occur in a family room or living room, not the bedroom because bed upholstery and mattresses are manufactured with excellent fire-resistant qualities. 

A cooking fire is another leading cause of house fires which can cause catastrophic fire damage in your home. Cooking equipment is the leading cause of residential fire-related injuries and the fourth leading cause of residential fire-related fatalities. Cooking fires usually take place whenever foods cooking on the stove are left unattended. Cooking oils are most susceptible to catching fire. These types of fires begin within the first 15 minutes of cooking. 

The third leading cause of residential fire-related fatalities and the second leading cause of home fires is improperly used heating equipment, such as portable space heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, and chimneys. Space heaters can cause a fire when they are placed too close to drapes, furniture or other combustible materials. A fire can start in a fireplace or chimney that is clogged with creosote buildup as well. 

Candles can also cause residential fires. From 2009 to 2013, candles were to blame for 3 percent of residential fires, 3 percent of residential fire-related fatalities, 5 percent of property damage and 6 percent of residential fire-related injuries. Nearly all candle-related fires are started whenever something too close to the candle catches on fire. 

Also, electrical failures within the home lead to about 45,000 residential fires during 2013, which resulted in 410 fatalities and $1.3 billion in property damages. Electrical failures or malfunctions happen when there is a problem with the home's lighting, cords, wiring or another type of equipment using electricity. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Severe Flossmoor fire damage to your home calls for fast and professional help and SERVPRO of Matteson/Homewood is your solution. Using advanced technology, our highly trained technicians can get your home back to normal in a short amount of time. We're locally owned and operated to serve Homewood and the surrounding areas. For more information, call us at (708) 747-9925.

Trust SERVPRO To Work Tirelessly To Reduce The Costs Of Fire Damages

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood cleanup and restoration services work tirelessly to reduce the costs of a fire damage claim. When restoring smoke-damaged materials, the goal is to restore materials to preloss condition.  Restoration experts follow the following basic principles of cleaning to accomplish this task. Locate smoke residues by carefully inspecting the damaged area. The inspection will start near the source of the fire and trace how far smoke moved through the structure. Identify the type of residues.

Different types of smoke residues can exist in the same loss environment. The restoration team will select a cleaning method that will effectively remove the type of smoke residues present. Identify the type of surface. The type of surface determines which cleaning methods and products are safe to use on that surface. Restorers must be careful to preserve the material or surface being cleaned, and some materials may be not savable because they cannot withstand the cleaning process. Capture and remove residues. Smoke residues bond with surfaces they contact. The restorer uses dry and wet cleaning processes to release and carry the carcinogen/smoke particles away from the affected surface. Dispose of residues. The restorer properly disposes of debris and cleaning waste for a safe, and healthy, living or working environment.

Causes of Flossmoor Fire Damage

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

Every 20 seconds in the United States, a fire department is responding to a fire somewhere. While your home is where you should always feel safe, it can also be a dangerous place if a Flossmoor fire occurs. In fact, four out of five fire-related fatalities occur in the home. However, if you are aware what causes a potential fire that could lead to severe Flossmoor fire damage in your home, you may be able to prevent the fire from occurring in the first place. Below are some of the main factors that can cause a residential fire. 

One of the major causes of Flossmoor residential fire-related deaths is smoking materials such as cigarettes and other tobacco products. About 800 people die annually in the U.S. because of careless handling of cigarettes in the home. Typically, smoking material that is forgotten or carelessly discarded ignites trash, furniture or bedding. Most of the deadly smoking-related fires occur in a family room or living room, not the bedroom because bed upholstery and mattresses are manufactured with excellent fire-resistant qualities. 

A cooking fire is another leading cause of Flossmoor house fires, which can cause catastrophic Flossmoor fire damage in your home. Cooking equipment is the leading cause of residential fire-related injuries and the fourth leading cause of residential fire-related fatalities. Cooking fires usually take place whenever foods cooking on the stove are left unattended. Cooking oils are most susceptible to catching fire. These types of fires begin within the first 15 minutes of cooking. 

The third leading cause of residential fire-related fatalities and the second leading cause of home fires is improperly used heating equipment, such as portable space heaters, wood stoves, fireplaces, and chimneys. Space heaters can cause a fire when they are placed too close to drapes, furniture or other combustible materials. A fire can start in a fireplace or chimney that is clogged with creosote buildup as well. 

Candles can also cause residential fires. From 2009 to 2013, candles were to blame for 3 percent of residential fires, 3 percent of residential fire-related fatalities, 5 percent of property damage and 6 percent of residential fire-related injuries. Nearly all candle-related fires are started whenever something too close to the candle catches on fire. 

Also, electrical failures within the home lead to about 45,000 residential fires during 2013, which resulted in 410 fatalities and $1.3 billion in property damages. Electrical failures or malfunctions happen when there is a problem with the home's lighting, cords, wiring or another type of equipment using electricity. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Severe Flossmoor fire damage to your home calls for fast and professional help and SERVPRO of Matteson/Homewood is your solution. Using advanced technology, our highly trained technicians can get your home back to normal in a short amount of time. We're locally owned and operated to serve Flossmoor and the surrounding areas. For more information, call us at (708) 747-9925.

SERVPRO Is Quick To Respond To Any Size Disaster!

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

Fore Damaged home needing Board Up Services

SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood is quick to respond to fire damage and securing property losses once the fire department has cleared the scene. Because most of our team members live in Homewood Flossmoor and the surrounding areas, our response time is typically less than one hour from the dispatch call.

Police and Fire Departments recommend SERVPRO because we show up on time and prepared for anything. Our board up trucks are state of the art. Lighting, power, extraction capabilities are just a few necessities we bring to fire scenes. 

Our board up teams start by removing all broken glass from the work areas to avoid liability issues and injuries. They then measure and cut all boards to fit securely into place. Doors are usually removed and then covered with plywood. A pad lock and hasp is then installed. The client is given a key as is the fire department for investigation purposes. 

Fire Board Up can also include winterizing pipes in the winter time, putting up caution tape or temporary fencing to keep the scene secure. If there are roof penetrations, SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood also provides roof tarping services. 

Fire Board Up and property securing is the very first mitigating service your insurance company recommends. By securing homes professionally, home owners reduce the risk for more damage from weather, vandals, or other unexpected issues. Following a fire damage, rely on SERVPRO for all your Board Up needs.

There Is No Better Time To Practice Your Home Fire Drill, But Now!

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood is ready 24/7, 365! Call us at (708) 747-9925!

In these times of uncertainty and endless questions, it is important to focus on things that we can control.  One of those things is fire safety!  Being at home together with your family is a perfect time to practice a fire drill.  Remember the days when fire drills happened in school? Most of us loved them because it was a time to get out of our classrooms and get some fresh air! Well did you know that fire drills are not just for schools? They should be practiced by businesses and even with your families in case of an emergency happening! There is nothing better than being prepared ahead of an emergency. It is very important to the safety of everyone at home that you know more than one way to exit. An important thing to cover is a designated meeting spot.  This will be extremely important when first responders arrive because you will already know if anyone is still inside.  Here at SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood, we suggest that you regularly perform a “fire drill” so that the plan is understood to each member of your family. If disaster should strike your home or business, know that SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood is ready 24/7, 365. Call us at (708) 747-9925 to help walk with you through the cleanup and repairs if an emergency happens in your home!

Did You Know That SERVPRO Offers Extra Services After Fire Damage?

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Electronics and artwork, if not initially destroyed, can still take on severe damage even after the dust has settled through staining and corrosion.

In addition to our fire damage repair and restoration services, SERVPRO also offers a number of accompanying services to help get your home, belongings, and family in order as soon as possible following a fire. Our technicians are trained not only to repair your home, but also to help and work with you, and as such, they can directly take on a number of bonus services or negotiate with licensed contractors for further help.

 Inventory Management

With advanced software and tracking technology, our professionals can help to take inventory of everything in your home following fire damage in Homewood, room-by-room and with your guidance. Not only does this help you to better understand what was and was not lost in the fire, but it also helps when negotiating with insurance providers, so that they can compare inventories and know what was lost in the fire.

Moving Services

Our technicians will help to move out furniture, equipment, and anything you may need if you need to leave the home while it is being restored. This goes hand-in-hand with our inventory services, and one will typically accompany the other. As always, we do everything under your watch and guidance, so that there are no misunderstandings or issues that arise.

Electronics and Artwork Cleaning

Electronics and artwork, if not initially destroyed in the fire, can still take on severe damage even after the dust has settled through staining and corrosion. Depending on the damage, a SERVPRO professional may be able to restore it manually, or we can employ a licensed and trained contractor or specialist to handle the items. These professionals understand the delicate tasks associated with the repair of these items and are the best individuals available to handle these restorations.

 At SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood, we train each and every one of our technicians to always work closely with the homeowner and to provide services to help you to get through your crisis. If you require our cleanup and restoration services, just give us a call 24/7 at (708) 747-9925.

Cold Weather Is Just Around The Corner - Let's Stay Safe While Using Space Heaters

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get back to normal fast. Call SERVPRO of Matteson - Homewood today!

 Fire does not care what season it is or whether or not its cold outside. Winter related fires are extremely common, especially when you are trying hard to keep warm.
 
Our offices in the Matteson-Homewood area have experience in fire damage from space heaters and can provide you with some tips to help avoid having to deal with these types of destructive events this winter season.
 
SERVPRO technicians understand that accidents happen. Placing space heaters too close to other objects or using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems. Please take a moment to consider some factors leading to these fires.
 
Oil Heaters - Should be used in areas where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance to avoid contact burns.
 
Electric Heaters - These heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be useful for many areas in your home. However, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the device and never use extension cords.
 
Our SERVPRO staff gets an incredible amount of space heater-related calls every winter. People are trying to stay warm and use space heaters quite often for this purpose. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Just use common sense, and always follow the directions of the manufacturer.

The professional technicians at SERVPRO state that you follow a few simple guidelines when operating your space heaters.
 
1) Always place space heaters on a flat, solid surface for proper stabilization.
 
2) Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers from tipping.
 
3) Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home.
 
4) Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters.
 
5) Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep.
 
Following these guidelines does not ensure that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are less likely to have an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home this winter season, make the call to our offices immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get back to normal fast.
 
Call SERVPRO of Matteson - Homewood today at (970) 493-6335

Ask The Experts: When Fire Hits Your Flossmoor Home or Business, Where Should I Turn?

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire damage can be disastrous for any homeowner to tackle. Not only can charring and odors affect your fixtures, furniture, and appliances, but it can also affect your food supply, including canned and jarred items. Worse still, exposure to moisture can make soot deposits acidic, which can corrode metals and plastics in your kitchen.

If your Flossmoor home needs fire damage mitigation after a kitchen fire, IICRC-certified SERVPRO technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to restore your home to a preloss condition. These experts strive to salvage items when it is safe and feasible to do so to help homeowners save time, money, and stress. SERVPRO teams can also assist homeowners in filing claims by taking a thorough, detailed inventory of affected items after a disaster. 

How SERVPRO Removes Fire Damage

SERVPRO technicians can get straight to work on removing debris as contaminated items after your insurance adjuster has evaluated the situation the appropriate paperwork has been signed approving its removal. Once the debris has been extracted from the kitchen, technicians can focus on cleaning using both wet and dry cleaning methods and working from ceiling to floor. 

If the fire was caused by cooking a protein in the oven, chances are there are invisible protein residues present that can impart especially foul odors in your kitchen. Technicians can use enzyme digesters to turn proteins into odorless, water-soluble byproducts that can be cleaned with ease.

SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood is a team that serves the community by being Faster to Any Size Disaster. Call (708) 747-9925 for cleanup that can begin within hours.

See more about Flossmoor.

Ask The Experts: What do I need to know about oven fires?

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Most people aren't prepared 100% for a fire in their home or business. Even if you have the right tools on hand, fire and the devastation that it brings can leave you frustrated and confused about what you need to do next. Depending on the kind of fire, there are things you should know that can help you when a fire does occur. Today, we will discuss oven fires. 

If the source of your kitchen fire is in the oven, keep these tips in mind:

• Leave the oven door closed. The lack of additional oxygen can smother the fire and prevent it from spreading. Turn the oven off and allow it to burn out.
• If the fire does not extinguish on its own, call 911. If it does, open your windows to improve ventilation.
• Once the fire is out, and it has had time to cool, open the oven door carefully and remove the burnt baking pan. Let the smoke clear before you do anything else in the kitchen.

If disaster does strike, call the professionals at SERVPRO! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened." 

Restoring Homes After Fires is What We Do

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Matteson- Homewood is trained to restore your home after a fire.

Restoring a fire damaged Bradley home to its original condition takes a professional service, trained to handle physical damage, smoke residues, and odors. Most house fires are relatively small and extinguished quickly. For SERVPRO restoration teams, that means they deal primarily with cleaning and removing smoke residues, and eliminating the odors they generate.

As an example of what specialists clean and deodorize are the cabinets in a kitchen fire. Since these wood or composite surfaces are smooth, team members can usually wipe off the residues with a dry sponge. For thicker, or stickier residues left behind, they break them up with a minimal amount of water or cleaning agent for easier wiping and removal. In some homes, it might be necessary to remove the handles and hinges and clean them separately.  

The problem here for SERVPRO specialists are the odors the wood or composite absorbs before they can remove the residues. If the residues are dry and powdery and removed quickly after extinguishing the fire, then very little odor transfers to the cabinets. Stickier residues take longer to remove, so the cabinets absorb more odor particles.

With either type of residue, if odors linger after removal, team members start with a deodorizing spray. They apply it to the surface, allow it to dry, and repeat as needed. If odors remain after several applications, they can use a stronger deodorizing agent, switch to another method, or dispose of it.

To remove the deeper odors from the cabinets, specialists use a fogger to create a cloud of deodorizing particles. This cloud can penetrate as deeply as the smoke from the fire to neutralize the odor and eliminate it.

Our goal at SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood is to return every residence to a clean, safe, and odor-free condition it enjoyed before the fire. If your home has had a fire of any size, call our office 24/7 at 708-747-9925 to schedule a service call. We are Here to Help you restore everything to normal.

Be Safe When Enjoying Fall Events

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

This is how quickly a small fire in a fire pit can turn into a disaster.

Fall in the Midwest usually brings a lot of hay rides and sipping cider by a fire with friends and family.  It is very important to remember safety when having a fire outdoors and near your home.  On a windy day, even a small fire can turn into a huge disaster.

Homeowners rarely think that a small fire will get out of control, but one large gust of wind can take ambers flying in the air and should they hit the right spot, you can experience large amounts of damage.  Siding is typically one of the first things that will burn and melt.  Oftentimes glass near the area will brake as well.  It is important to have an experienced team to help you clean up and repair the damage.

At SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood we are trained to board up windows, clean up glass, remove odors, and repair you home both inside and out.  

For more information please call our office today at 709-747-9925.

Fire Services that are offered to homeowners

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

Technicians are highly trained to restore you personal property after a fire.

In addition to our fire damage repair and restoration services, SERVPRO also offers a number of accompanying services to help get your home, belongings, and family in order as soon as possible following a fire. Our technicians are trained not only to repair your home, but also to help and work with you, and as such, they can directly take on a number of services or negotiate with licensed contractors for further help.

Inventory Management
With advanced software and tracking technology, our professionals can help to take inventory of everything in your home following fire damage in Homewood, room-by-room and with your guidance. Not only does this help you to better understand what was and was not lost in the fire, but it also helps when negotiating with insurance providers, so that they can compare inventories and know what was lost in the fire.

Moving Services
Our technicians will help to move out furniture, equipment, and anything you may need if you need to leave the home while it is being restored. This goes hand-in-hand with our inventory services, and one will typically accompany the other. As always, we do everything under your watch and guidance, so that there are no misunderstandings or issues that arise.

Electronics and Artwork Cleaning
Electronics and artwork, if not initially destroyed in the fire, can still take on severe damage even after the dust has settled through staining and corrosion. Depending on the damage, a SERVPRO professional may be able to restore it manually, or we can employ a licensed and trained contractor or specialist to handle the items. These professionals understand the delicate tasks associated with the repair of these items and are the best individuals available to handle these restorations.
 
At SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood, we train each and every one of our technicians to always work closely with the homeowner and to provide services to help you to get through your crisis. If you require our cleanup and restoration services, just give us a call 24/7 at (708) 747-9925.

Our Quick Response Is Vital After A Fire In Your Homewood Home

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

“Like it never even happened.”

The Best Response To Factors That Complicate Minor Fire Damage Incidents In Homewood

Controlling a fire incident before it consumes the entire structure is a great achievement because it only takes a few seconds for a minor fire to turn to a raging inferno. However, even the minor fire is likely to damage property, especially through soot and other smoke residues. During combustion, the way various factors such as heat, moisture, oxygen, and other gases interact can leave stubborn residues. You can address such fire damage better with help from a professional team.

Pretesting To Establish Residue Distribution
Residues spreading all over the property can complicate minor fire damage incidents in Homewood because you need to remove all of them to restore your home to its preloss state. The residues have different properties, including visibility and adherence to surfaces. Finding and identifying the residues helps determine the best response. Our SERVPRO technicians inspect and pretest particular items establishing the distribution and types of materials affected.

Using TACT to Deal With Porous or Old Surfaces
Soot and other smoke residues can penetrate materials. Older materials and surfaces made from naturally porous materials are therefore hard to clean because residues penetrate beyond the surface. Temperature, Agitation, Chemical Action and Time, or TACT, in short, are the four elements of cleaning. Varying any of these aspects can help improve the outcome of the process, especially on porous surfaces. For example, increasing heat when using cleaning agents helps quicken the chemical reaction because of faster molecule movements. Agitation, on the other hand, breaks bonds between soils and materials. Our SERVPRO crews use different approaches to agitate surfaces, including:

    •    Water Pressure
    •    Air Pressure
    •    Rotating Brushes
    •    Blasting Equipment

Understanding Residues
Soils react differently when exposed to cleaning agents. The basic principle is that like dissolves like so understanding the properties of a residue can help in choosing the right cleaning solution. Our SERVPRO technicians evaluate residues based on whether they are hydrophilic, hydrophobic, lipophobic, or lipophilic. It is easy to clean smoke residue from the combustion of natural materials using water, unlike smoke residues from fuel oil, which are hydrophobic.

Even when a fire incident is minor, it can be difficult to address. Call SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood at (708) 747-9925 to assist. We have the resources to deal with any issue “Like it never even happened.”

For more about Homewood click here.

Professional Fire Damage Restoration Company in Homewood Talks 'After the Fire'

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

As the firefighters rolled out, SERVPRO rolled in and began the restoration process of this home.

What to Expect from Professional Fire Damage Recovery in Homewood

The chances are good that the fire at your Homewood residence is the first you must manage in your experience. Because the scenario is likely new to you, the protocols followed over the days to weeks until your home returns to its preloss condition are unfamiliar. Here is a synopsis of how our managers and technicians approach household fire mitigation and remediation.

Water Damage Mitigation and Remediation 

Surprising until you think about how we fight fires, a Homewood fire damage recovery plan nearly always starts with water removal and applied structural drying. Our technicians are multi-certified, avoiding any delays as we take care of this initial step.

Soot Evaluation and Selection of Appropriate Interventions 

One fire can produce several different types of soot as it moves through a dwelling. It all depends on the temperature, oxygen level, and materials burned. SERVPRO’s Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained Fire and Smoke Restoration Technicians (FSRT) classify the soot residues as dry, wet, or protein-based. The cleaning products, tools, and methods used for each type vary, and our experts report success if time is taken to coordinate the approaches.

Charring Evaluation and Selection of Appropriate Interventions

The depth and intensity of charring determine the choices SERVPRO recommends among restoration, repair, and demolition and rebuilding options. Safety and structural integrity are paramount considerations, but appearance and odor issues also weigh in. 

Contents Evaluation and Selection of Appropriate Interventions 

Contents inside your home also suffer from heat, flames, smoke, and soot. An option is to pack-up and remove items to a safe place on your property or our production facility for review and appropriate restoration efforts. The toxic, corrosive characteristics of fire residues can etch, tarnish, and discolor items. However, our Contents Processing Technicians (CPT) have many resources available to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

Deodorization 

Fire residues smell strong and unpleasant, and the malodor can linger for months or more if unaddressed. If debris disposal and deep residue cleaning do not eradicate the smells, we have access to advanced technologies such as thermal foggers, ozone machines, and hydroxyl generators that neutralize odors through chemical reactions. 

When the firefighters authorize post-blaze assessment, contact SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood at (708) 747-9925. We respond swiftly, 24/7, ready to help you get your life back on track and your home back to pre-fire condition.

More about Homewood.

We Are The Right Choice For Your Fire Damage Restoration Services In Homewood

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

After a fire disaster you can rest easy knowing help is on its way. We are a call away and are ready 24/7.

Fire Damage Removal And Cleaning In Homewood 

Being just off I-80/295, Homewood is a great community to live in, with access to not only a certain big city to the north but also Lake Michigan and nearby forests for recreation. Flooding is not usually a problem in our neighborhoods, but a fire can be just as damaging. 

Treating fire damage in Homewood neighborhoods means dealing with not only the physical damage from heat and flames but also the residues and odors they leave behind. Dealing with such a wide variety of damage and repair requirements takes a full-service operation with trained, and experienced personnel. Every SERVPRO team meets those requirements.

Our certified FSRTs (Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technicians) can perform every task needed to clear a home of debris, clean the restorable surfaces and items, eliminate odors, and make the home look new again.

SERVPRO team members begin clearing each home as soon as the fire department, and sometimes the insurance company gives the Okay to enter. They sweep out the entryways and hallways first to prevent grinding cinders and residues into carpets and floors. Where needed, specialists also carefully demolish burned structural property still attach to the wall framing and other support structures.

After completing debris removal, technicians clean the home. In a bedroom fire, the items there are usually destroyed, but everything else in the home has various layers of smoke residues. Close to the flames, some items often strong cleaning agents and even some level of scrubbing to remove the residues completely. Farther away from the origin of the fire, the residue layers require milder cleaners. Technicians can often remove them with a sponge and simply wiping down each surface.

The same is true for removing odors from home. Close to the fire damage origin point, odors are very pungent. Depending on the value of an affected item, the insurance company may prefer the replacement cost instead of attempting removal using expensive methods like neutralizing them with an ozone machine. In rooms on the other end of the home, away from the fire, odor removal can be as simple as wiping away the smoke residues that cause them before they can penetrate the surface of walls, ceilings, and furniture.

For SERVPRO of Matteson – Homewood customers, our goal is to put each homeowner and resident into a clean, safe structure as quickly as possible. Call us at (708) 747-9925 today when you need us here or in the nearby communities of Flossmoor, Country Club Hills, and Olympia Fields.  

See more about Homewood.

We Have The Advanced Equipment To Restore Your Homewood Home After A Fire Disaster

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

Extensive damage was done to this bedroom after a fire struck this home. We showed up as soon as they called and started restoration.

How We Clean the Four Floor Types to Mitigate Smoke Damage in a Homewood Residence

Restoring your Homewood residence to normal after a fire of any size means taking care of the floors in each part of the house. Soot is a highly tricky substance to remove from a large number of surface types, and the individual particles can adhere to minute depressions or within the pores of natural materials. One area that needs skilled professionals is your floors.

Our specialists know how to restore the floors in your Homewood location using fire damage mitigation methods. Flooring falls into four main types – resilient, non-resilient, concrete, and wood. Our building services handles a large portion of the restoration process regarding floors.

After our cleaning process finishes removing the soot and other debris, we re-assess the floor's condition. Some flooring needs nothing else for us to consider it clean and restored to preloss condition. However, many situations call for additional restorative measures.

Resilient floors include those made from vinyl. Slight buffing and several coats of sealer quickly restore such flooring. When needed, drying the floor from underneath, if possible can help preserve the floor.
If your home contains non-resilient floors, including marble, the natural pores and minute depressions that make these substances so beautiful can become clogged with the by-products of smoke and fire damage. An alkaline cleaning agent works well in most cases, but we must wait until the floor completely dries after a thorough rinsing to see how well the floor responded. If residues remain, we can discuss an acid-based cleaning method suitable only for non-polished surfaces.

We check concrete floors for sealants that can make cleaning after a fire much more manageable. Non-sealed floors remain porous, leading to stains from smoke residues that flowed deeper into the concrete with the liquid cleaning agents. Because of the possibility of causing permanent staining, we dry clean such surfaces as thoroughly as possible before applying any liquids.
Hardwood flooring absorbs water from firefighting efforts. Some wood floors made from small-sized pieces, called parquet, suffer significantly during a fire. The heat, humidity, and the soiling tear these types of floors apart at their very base, making replacement a much better option than restoration. Strips of wood often fare much better than their pieced-together counterparts. They can retain water underneath them, and soot can also find its way around to the underside of wooden boards during and after a fire. We use gentle cleaning agents that contain no solvents to pull soot out of the wood's grain.

Homes in Flossmoor and Olympia Fields, as well as those in Country Club Hills with fire damage need the skilled professionals at SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood. Contact us at (708) 747-9925 to see how our mitigation, restoration, and building professionals can help you and your family.

See more about Homewood.

We Have The Experience Necessary To Handle Your Flossmoor Home Fire Damage Restoration

6/4/2019 (Permalink)

Our technicians were called in after a fire in a home, extensive damage was done to this bedroom. We restored it back to normal.

Fire Damage Restoration from a Candle Fire in Your Flossmoor Home

It has become increasingly popular to use candles in Flossmoor homes for decoration and relaxation. Candles are used to mark special occasions and create a unique atmosphere. However, they also bring fire into your home, so they need to be treated with care. Candles result in home fires each year, and most of these can be avoided if you are using the candles properly and taking the right precautions.

When your home in Flossmoor has experienced fire damage from a candle, it can be quite unsettling. The fire damage needs to be taken care of right away, however, to prevent further damage to your home. To help you, reaching out to a professional remediation company such as SERVPRO is the best course of action. With our experience and training, we can restore your home and make it look as if nothing happened.

An easy step to start with to protect your home and family while using candles is first putting candles on a surface that is heat resistant and in a proper holder. Candles have to be held upright by the holder, so they do not tip over. The holder should also be stable, so it does not fall over, either.

Set candles away from curtains or other flammable fabrics and furniture. Keep them out of drafty areas, and do not place them underneath a shelf. It is easy to forget how hot it can get above a burning candle. Putting it under a shelf or other surface can allow the candle to burn that surface. There should be three feet or more between a candle and any surface above it.

Depending on how bad the fire damage is, SERVPRO techs use various mechanical actions to make friction and agitate and loosen smoke residues. When medium agitation is needed, there are a few options for us. Dry rubber sponges can remove loose soils. Dusting clothes which are treated with alight mineral oil attract light dust and soot. Crumbly cleaner works like an eraser. It self-destructs as it is rubbed over a surface, and the pieces of the cleaner absorb soils from the surface. A white, clean towel can also be used to apply wet cleaning solutions.

Of course, keep pets and kids away from any burning candles, and make sure not to lean over a candle while it's burning to prevent hair or clothing from catching on fire. There should also be at least four inches between each burning candle, and do not move candles while they are lit.

SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood understands that any fire damage in your home in Hazel Crest, Richton Park, or Olympia Fields can be traumatic for you and your family. Let us help you restore your home – give us a call at (708) 747-9925 as soon as the flames are extinguished.

If you are new to Flossmoor, click here for information, that will ease your transition into the community.

Why You Need Our Team After A Matteson Home Fire

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

We are here for your fire damage restoration services 24/7. We have the experience and the equipment for any job big or small.

Why Insurance Recommends Fire Restoration for Matteson Homes

Whenever you get posed with a disaster like a fire in your Matteson home, you might consider several different options in getting the damage restored. For many homeowners, this is a decision that gets made by their insurance company footing the bill to return the property to its original condition. Once your insurance provider has approved a damage claim, they want to ensure that your home is in the most competent hands so that there are no delays or concerns about restoring the property fully.

You might wonder why your insurance company wants professional technicians to clean up and restore the fire damage in your Matteson residence. Our SERVPRO professionals have often worked closely with many of the major and local insurance providers throughout the region to bring our mutual customers the quality result that they have come to expect. It is this commitment to exceeding your expectations with our restoration work that makes us a respected consideration for insurance companies serving our area.

One of the reasons why DIY restoration and cleanup is a poor decision for homeowners to make is that many do not realize the full extent of what a home needs to return it to preloss condition. Our team can assess the full extent of the damage and what your property needs. We have the industry-leading equipment and expertise to handle any facet of fire restoration in your home.

Another reason why your insurance company wants the job done professionally is the experience that our technicians bring to your home. We can get the job done quickly and thoroughly, ensuring that every potential concern following the fire has gotten cleaned, deodorized, reconstructed, or restored. We have the means to restore your home at a much faster rate than you could do on your own.

Fire damage is nothing that a homeowner should attempt to resolve on their own, and their insurance provider is often going to push for professional restoration as well. Our SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood technicians have the experience and equipment to make fire damages “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (708) 747-9925.

Check out a show at the Freedom Hall, a theatre and concert venue, click here.

Dangers of Space Heaters

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Warns About the Dangers of Space Heaters When Not Used Properly

Fire does not care what season it is or whether or not its cold outside. Winter related fires are extremely common, especially when you are trying hard to keep warm. 
 
Our offices in the Matteson-Homewood area have experience in fire damage from space heaters and can provide you with some tips to help avoid having to deal with these types of destructive events this winter season. 
 
SERVPRO technicians understand that accidents happen. Placing space heaters too close to other objects or using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems. Please take a moment to consider some factors leading to these fires.
 
Oil Heaters - Should be used in areas where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance to avoid contact burns. 
 
Electric Heaters - These heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be useful for many areas in your home. However, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the device and never use extension cords.
 
Our SERVPRO staff gets an incredible amount of space heater-related calls every winter. People are trying to stay warm and use space heaters quite often for this purpose. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Just use common sense, and always follow the directions of the manufacturer.

The professional technicians at SERVPRO state that you follow a few simple guidelines when operating your space heaters. 
 
1) Always place space heaters on a flat, solid surface for proper stabilization. 
 
2) Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers from tipping. 
 
3) Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home. 
 
4) Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters. 
 
5) Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep. 
 
Following these guidelines does not ensure that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are less likely to have an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home this winter season, make the call to our offices immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get back to normal fast. 
 
Call SERVPRO of Matteson - Homewood today at (970) 493-6335

Holiday Safety Tips

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

Holiday Safety Tips

The holidays offer many opportunities for family and friends to gather, but they also come with an increased fire risk. With a little extra attention and care, you can help your family have a happy and safe holiday season.

Cooking

The holidays don’t feel like the holidays without delicious food. While cooking always presents potential fire hazards, home cooking fires always spike up around the holiday season.

When you have lots of cooks in the kitchen, it’s easy for things to get messy and confusing. However, a cluttered, chaotic kitchen is a hazardous kitchen. Make sure to keep flammable objects, like towels, packaging, and potholders, away from the stove. Communicate with everyone in the kitchen so you don’t leave the stovetop or oven on when it’s not in use. Wipe up spills quickly, and don’t let grease pile up around a burner.

If a deep-fried turkey is on the menu, make sure you fry it on a flat surface outside at least 10 feet away from the house.

Holiday Lights

While holiday lights can add a fun ambience to your home, it’s important to decorate safely. When you first open a package of new lights or crack open a box of previously-loved strands, take time to inspect each strand. If you find frayed or cracked wires or any broken sockets, return them or throw them away.

Don’t put more strands of lights on your tree than the packaging recommends. Overloading trees (and outlets) are a common cause of holiday fires. Unplug your holiday lights (and tree, if applicable) before you go to bed or leave the house.

If you want to hang lights outside, don’t use nails or staples as they can damage the wiring. Invest in quality hooks or hangers. Once the holidays are over, take down all outside lights. Small animals, like squirrels, may start chewing on the wires if you leave them up all year.

Menorahs

If your family uses menorahs for Hanukkah, you could consider using an electric one to cut down on fire hazards. If you prefer traditional candles, just be careful.

Keep the menorah at least three feet away from flammable items, and make sure you place a non-flammable surface, like an aluminum foil-lined tray, underneath the menorah to catch the melting wax.

Christmas Trees

Setting up the Christmas tree can mark the beginning of the Christmas holiday for many families. Unfortunately, if they are not properly set up and taken care of, they pose a large fire risk.

Keep the Christmas tree at least three feet away from fireplaces or heating elements in your home.

If you prefer a live Christmas tree, make sure to care for it properly. A dry tree can start to engulf a room in flames within a minute of ignition. Help reduce fire risks with the following guidelines:

• Buy a fresh tree. When you first choose the tree, the pine needles should be green and not easily broken.
• Cut off the bottom. When you get the tree home, cut two inches of the bottom to create a raw cut so the tree can soak in water.
• Water the tree daily. Well-watered trees are less likely to catch fire.
• Throw it out promptly. No matter how much you water it, your tree will dry out over time. Once the pine needles start to fall off and the tree starts to dry, it’s time to throw it out.

If you choose an artificial tree, consider flame-resistant or flame-retardant options.

Taking steps to prevent holiday fires can help reduce the risk, but there’s always a possibility of a fire. If your home suffers fire damage, SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood can help.

We have the knowledge and experience to properly treat fire and smoke damage to make your home “Like it never even happened.” We offer 24/7 emergency service; call us anytime at (708) 747-9925.

SERVPRO after fire services

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Extra Services SERVPRO Provides After A Fire

In addition to our fire damage repair and restoration services, SERVPRO also offers a number of accompanying services to help get your home, belongings, and family in order as soon as possible following a fire. Our technicians are trained not only to repair your home, but also to help and work with you, and as such, they can directly take on a number of bonus services or negotiate with licensed contractors for further help.

Inventory Management 
With advanced software and tracking technology, our professionals can help to take inventory of everything in your home following fire damage in Homewood, room-by-room and with your guidance. Not only does this help you to better understand what was and was not lost in the fire, but it also helps when negotiating with insurance providers, so that they can compare inventories and know what was lost in the fire.

Moving Services 
Our technicians will help to move out furniture, equipment, and anything you may need if you need to leave the home while it is being restored. This goes hand-in-hand with our inventory services, and one will typically accompany the other. As always, we do everything under your watch and guidance, so that there are no misunderstandings or issues that arise.

Electronics and Artwork Cleaning 
Electronics and artwork, if not initially destroyed in the fire, can still take on severe damage even after the dust has settled through staining and corrosion. Depending on the damage, a SERVPRO professional may be able to restore it manually, or we can employ a licensed and trained contractor or specialist to handle the items. These professionals understand the delicate tasks associated with the repair of these items and are the best individuals available to handle these restorations.
 
At SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood, we train each and every one of our technicians to always work closely with the homeowner and to provide services to help you to get through your crisis. If you require our cleanup and restoration services, just give us a call 24/7 at (708) 747-9925.

SERVPRO does more to help you after a fire

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Extra Services SERVPRO Provides After A Fire

In addition to our fire damage repair and restoration services, SERVPRO also offers a number of accompanying services to help get your home, belongings, and family in order as soon as possible following a fire. Our technicians are trained not only to repair your home, but also to help and work with you, and as such, they can directly take on a number of bonus services or negotiate with licensed contractors for further help.

Inventory Management 
With advanced software and tracking technology, our professionals can help to take inventory of everything in your home following fire damage in Homewood, room-by-room and with your guidance. Not only does this help you to better understand what was and was not lost in the fire, but it also helps when negotiating with insurance providers, so that they can compare inventories and know what was lost in the fire.

Moving Services 
Our technicians will help to move out furniture, equipment, and anything you may need if you need to leave the home while it is being restored. This goes hand-in-hand with our inventory services, and one will typically accompany the other. As always, we do everything under your watch and guidance, so that there are no misunderstandings or issues that arise.

Electronics and Artwork Cleaning 
Electronics and artwork, if not initially destroyed in the fire, can still take on severe damage even after the dust has settled through staining and corrosion. Depending on the damage, a SERVPRO professional may be able to restore it manually, or we can employ a licensed and trained contractor or specialist to handle the items. These professionals understand the delicate tasks associated with the repair of these items and are the best individuals available to handle these restorations.
 
At SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood, we train each and every one of our technicians to always work closely with the homeowner and to provide services to help you to get through your crisis. If you require our cleanup and restoration services, just give us a call 24/7 at (708) 747-9925.

Board Up - Park Forest - Fire Damage

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Board up of a Property in Park Forest, IL

Fires are one of the most devastating forces in nature, so when one of them happens to your home or commercial business, they are a life changer.

That is why its important to prepare for such events ahead of time so you can at least put yourself or your business in the best position to recover and recover quickly. That is where the Restoration Experts at SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood can help. Whether is preparing your business ahead of time with one of our Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP) or having us programmed ahead of time in your smart phone. This simple preparation cannot be overstated.

Acting quickly after a fire strikes can mean the difference in thousands or tens of thousands of dollars in secondary damage, that can happen after the fire is already out.

Securing your property with a Board Up is only the first step in this process. Proper Mitigation and Restoration, from highly trained crews to leading edge cleaning technology, SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood has you covered.

SERVPRO has been helping families and businesses recover when disaster strikes, for almost 60 years and has been the #1 Restoration Company in the Nation for the last 16 years. Trust the fire professionals that the insurance professional trust.... trust SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood. 

                        708-747-9925

#BoardUp #FireDamage # SmokeDamage #WaterDamage #Mold #BioCleanUp #SewerDamage #SERVPRO #PlanetSERVPRO #DisasterRecoveryTeam #LargeLossResponseTeam #FirstResponders #SERVPROMattesonHomewood #MABAS24 #MABAS27 #

Be sure to keep your dryer vents clean in Flossmoor home

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

Dryer vent cleaning prevents fires. You will want to make sure that your home or commercial property is completely safe. Whether by flooding, fire or some other mishap, there are plenty of ways that your property can be threatened. One of the best ways to ensure that you are prepared for a catastrophic emergency is always to have a local residential and commercial property cleanup and restoration service.

Dryer Vent Cleaning Prevents Fires 

Keep your property from sustaining irreversible fire damage. Making sure your dryer vents are clean and free from obstruction will help keep your property safe from the possibility of a fire. It's also an excellent precaution to take to keep the air in the building from getting choked up with dust, lint and other health hazards that can accumulate in a dryer vent. 

Get Help from a Local Cleanup and Restoration Service 

It's up to you to contact an expert local cleaning and fire restoration service to ensure that your vents get cleaned in a correct and timely fashion. When you are in doubt as to whether the vents or other areas in your home are functioning correctly, a good, thorough cleaning is never a bad idea. 

Even if it turns out that your property is not quite yet due for a full cleaning, a reputable local cleanup service can help such as removing any excess pollen or debris that has accumulated in the vents. This way, you can save a great deal of time, money and worry by taking timely preventative measures. Keeping the proper level of air quality in your home or commercial building will go a long way toward keeping the structure safe for your family or employees to inhabit. An expert local service will ultimately save you a great deal of time and stress.

Expert Help for Dryer Vent Cleaning Is Available 

At SERVPRO of Matteson - Homewood, we know that dryer vent cleaning prevents fires. This is only one of the many services that we can provide for you to make sure that your home or commercial property will be safe against the event of an unforeseen mishap or emergency. If an emergency should befall your property, you'll want to call a service that can get to you in a prompt and timely manner. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

If you are in need of quick and efficient dryer vent cleaning, we're here to assist you. 

Space Heater safety

12/6/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Warns About the Dangers of Space Heaters When Not Used Properly

Fire does not care what season it is or whether or not its cold outside. Winter related fires are extremely common, especially when you are trying hard to keep warm. 
 
Our offices in the Matteson-Homewood area have experience in fire damage from space heaters and can provide you with some tips to help avoid having to deal with these types of destructive events this winter season. 
 
SERVPRO technicians understand that accidents happen. Placing space heaters too close to other objects or using the wrong type of heater in a particular area can cause severe problems. Please take a moment to consider some factors leading to these fires.
 
Oil Heaters - Should be used in areas where there is the possibility of moisture. This eliminates any electrical hazards that may be present due to water conductivity. Always keep a safe distance to avoid contact burns. 
 
Electric Heaters - These heaters come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be useful for many areas in your home. However, they should never be left unattended. Thinking of electric heaters as giant toasters can help you understand how important it is to keep a constant eye on them. Make sure you have sufficient wattage to run the device and never use extension cords.
 
Our SERVPRO staff gets an incredible amount of space heater-related calls every winter. People are trying to stay warm and use space heaters quite often for this purpose. However, using a space heater does not need to cause so many problems during a cold spell. Just use common sense, and always follow the directions of the manufacturer.

The professional technicians at SERVPRO state that you follow a few simple guidelines when operating your space heaters. 
 
1) Always place space heaters on a flat, solid surface for proper stabilization. 
 
2) Purchase heaters with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent dangers from tipping. 
 
3) Maintain proper spacing between heaters and other objects in your home. 
 
4) Never leave children or pets unsupervised around operating heaters. 
 
5) Shut your heaters off properly before leaving your home or going to sleep. 
 
Following these guidelines does not ensure that you will never have to deal with fire damage from space heaters. However, you are less likely to have an unwanted consequence. If this sort of incident still strikes your home this winter season, make the call to our offices immediately. We will respond quickly and provide you with the services you need to get back to normal fast. 
 
Call SERVPRO of Matteson - Homewood today at (970) 493-6335

Holiday Fire Tips for Matteson

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

The holidays offer many opportunities for family and friends to gather, but they also come with an increased fire risk. With a little extra attention and care, you can help your family have a happy and safe holiday season.

Cooking

The holidays don’t feel like the holidays without delicious food. While cooking always presents potential fire hazards, home cooking fires always spike up around the holiday season.

When you have lots of cooks in the kitchen, it’s easy for things to get messy and confusing. However, a cluttered, chaotic kitchen is a hazardous kitchen. Make sure to keep flammable objects, like towels, packaging, and potholders, away from the stove. Communicate with everyone in the kitchen so you don’t leave the stovetop or oven on when it’s not in use. Wipe up spills quickly, and don’t let grease pile up around a burner.

If a deep-fried turkey is on the menu, make sure you fry it on a flat surface outside at least 10 feet away from the house.

Holiday Lights

While holiday lights can add a fun ambience to your home, it’s important to decorate safely. When you first open a package of new lights or crack open a box of previously-loved strands, take time to inspect each strand. If you find frayed or cracked wires or any broken sockets, return them or throw them away.

Don’t put more strands of lights on your tree than the packaging recommends. Overloading trees (and outlets) are a common cause of holiday fires. Unplug your holiday lights (and tree, if applicable) before you go to bed or leave the house.

If you want to hang lights outside, don’t use nails or staples as they can damage the wiring. Invest in quality hooks or hangers. Once the holidays are over, take down all outside lights. Small animals, like squirrels, may start chewing on the wires if you leave them up all year.

Menorahs

If your family uses menorahs for Hanukkah, you could consider using an electric one to cut down on fire hazards. If you prefer traditional candles, just be careful.

Keep the menorah at least three feet away from flammable items, and make sure you place a non-flammable surface, like an aluminum foil-lined tray, underneath the menorah to catch the melting wax.

Christmas Trees

Setting up the Christmas tree can mark the beginning of the Christmas holiday for many families. Unfortunately, if they are not properly set up and taken care of, they pose a large fire risk.

Keep the Christmas tree at least three feet away from fireplaces or heating elements in your home.

If you prefer a live Christmas tree, make sure to care for it properly. A dry tree can start to engulf a room in flames within a minute of ignition. Help reduce fire risks with the following guidelines:

• Buy a fresh tree. When you first choose the tree, the pine needles should be green and not easily broken.
• Cut off the bottom. When you get the tree home, cut two inches of the bottom to create a raw cut so the tree can soak in water.
• Water the tree daily. Well-watered trees are less likely to catch fire.
• Throw it out promptly. No matter how much you water it, your tree will dry out over time. Once the pine needles start to fall off and the tree starts to dry, it’s time to throw it out.

If you choose an artificial tree, consider flame-resistant or flame-retardant options.

Taking steps to prevent holiday fires can help reduce the risk, but there’s always a possibility of a fire. If your home suffers fire damage, SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood can help.

We have the knowledge and experience to properly treat fire and smoke damage to make your home “Like it never even happened.” We offer 24/7 emergency service; call us anytime at (708) 747-9925.

SERVPRO after fire services

11/20/2017 (Permalink)

Extra Services SERVPRO Provides After A Fire

In addition to our fire damage repair and restoration services, SERVPRO also offers a number of accompanying services to help get your home, belongings, and family in order as soon as possible following a fire. Our technicians are trained not only to repair your home, but also to help and work with you, and as such, they can directly take on a number of bonus services or negotiate with licensed contractors for further help.

Inventory Management 
With advanced software and tracking technology, our professionals can help to take inventory of everything in your home following fire damage in Homewood, room-by-room and with your guidance. Not only does this help you to better understand what was and was not lost in the fire, but it also helps when negotiating with insurance providers, so that they can compare inventories and know what was lost in the fire.

Moving Services 
Our technicians will help to move out furniture, equipment, and anything you may need if you need to leave the home while it is being restored. This goes hand-in-hand with our inventory services, and one will typically accompany the other. As always, we do everything under your watch and guidance, so that there are no misunderstandings or issues that arise.

Electronics and Artwork Cleaning 
Electronics and artwork, if not initially destroyed in the fire, can still take on severe damage even after the dust has settled through staining and corrosion. Depending on the damage, a SERVPRO professional may be able to restore it manually, or we can employ a licensed and trained contractor or specialist to handle the items. These professionals understand the delicate tasks associated with the repair of these items and are the best individuals available to handle these restorations.
 
At SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood, we train each and every one of our technicians to always work closely with the homeowner and to provide services to help you to get through your crisis. If you require our cleanup and restoration services, just give us a call 24/7 at (708) 747-9925.

SERVPRO goes above and beyond with extra services after a fire.

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

Extra Services SERVPRO Provides After A Fire

In addition to our fire damage repair and restoration services, SERVPRO also offers a number of accompanying services to help get your home, belongings, and family in order as soon as possible following a fire. Our technicians are trained not only to repair your home, but also to help and work with you, and as such, they can directly take on a number of bonus services or negotiate with licensed contractors for further help.

Inventory Management 
With advanced software and tracking technology, our professionals can help to take inventory of everything in your home following fire damage in Homewood, room-by-room and with your guidance. Not only does this help you to better understand what was and was not lost in the fire, but it also helps when negotiating with insurance providers, so that they can compare inventories and know what was lost in the fire.

Moving Services 
Our technicians will help to move out furniture, equipment, and anything you may need if you need to leave the home while it is being restored. This goes hand-in-hand with our inventory services, and one will typically accompany the other. As always, we do everything under your watch and guidance, so that there are no misunderstandings or issues that arise.

Electronics and Artwork Cleaning 
Electronics and artwork, if not initially destroyed in the fire, can still take on severe damage even after the dust has settled through staining and corrosion. Depending on the damage, a SERVPRO professional may be able to restore it manually, or we can employ a licensed and trained contractor or specialist to handle the items. These professionals understand the delicate tasks associated with the repair of these items and are the best individuals available to handle these restorations.
 
At SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood, we train each and every one of our technicians to always work closely with the homeowner and to provide services to help you to get through your crisis. If you require our cleanup and restoration services, just give us a call 24/7 at (708) 747-9925.

The ERP Plan from SERVPRO is a Valuable Tool Against Fire and Water Damage in Glenwood

8/2/2017 (Permalink)

The ERP Plan from SERVPRO is a Valuable Tool Against Fire and Water Damage in Glenwood

What is your preference if disaster strikes -- prepared or panicked? When fire or water damage threatens your property, knowing you have a detailed action plan solidly in place gives you confidence that your home or business is on the road to a speedy and sure restoration. We partner with you to get a complete recovery blueprint crafted and in place. 
 
Developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile and Plan safeguards your investment by streamlining our response to your troubles. Select us as your SERVPRO Franchise Representative, and start by scheduling a free, no-obligation walk-through of either your home or your business with one of our professional assessors. A review of your physical plant sharpens our focus on how to best respond to your property’s unique needs in the event of a catastrophic fire event in Glenwood. We also recommend adjustments for you to better prepare for loss based on our experience. 
 
The next step is to create your account online. Complete an Emergency Ready Profile for your property, following the template provided. Owning or operating more than one property simply means you fill out a Profile for each. The Profile app directs the procedure, including prompts to take and archive pictures and layouts of all areas. Utility locations and shutoffs are pinpointed, and sprinkler and alarm systems are delineated. Key managers or employees to whom you delegate decision-making authority are determined. Identify the owner of the building if you lease space. 
 
We suggest the use of a tablet or phone to record the data requested in the SERVPRO Ready Plan Application, including taking pictures. A Field Form downloaded, printed, and completed as you tour the property also is acceptable for you to use as a preliminary source of information. Once you finish the walk-through, log into your account and load the details online, adding the pictures taken per the prompts. 
 
Once your Emergency Ready Profiles and Plan (ERPs) are saved our SERVPRO will hit the ground running when you or your representative contact us after a disaster or mishap. Use the mobile app to log into your account and alert us about the specific situation. The app speedily leads you through the process, using the information you previously inputted. We have a clear and concise plan at our fingertips, permitting our technicians to get to work immediately to restore the damage. The established plan is vastly preferable to our crew familiarizing themselves with the building under stress and needing many questions answered. 
 
Being "Ready for whatever happens" inspires faith in your customers, employees, and family. It is clear your business recovers and thrives, or your home again provides comfort and shelter. Work with the professionals at SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood to devise an Emergency Ready Profile and Plan to protect your business, home, or other property from fire damage by calling (708) 747-9925 before a disaster occurs.

The Importance of Dryer Vent Cleaning in Homewood

6/28/2017 (Permalink)

Dryer vent cleaning prevents fires. You will want to make sure that your home or commercial property is completely safe. Whether by flooding, fire or some other mishap, there are plenty of ways that your property can be threatened. One of the best ways to ensure that you are prepared for a catastrophic emergency is always to have a local residential and commercial property cleanup and restoration service.

Dryer Vent Cleaning Prevents Fires 

Keep your property from sustaining irreversible fire damage. Making sure your dryer vents are clean and free from obstruction will help keep your property safe from the possibility of a fire. It's also an excellent precaution to take to keep the air in the building from getting choked up with dust, lint and other health hazards that can accumulate in a dryer vent. 

Get Help from a Local Cleanup and Restoration Service 

It's up to you to contact an expert local cleaning and fire restoration service to ensure that your vents get cleaned in a correct and timely fashion. When you are in doubt as to whether the vents or other areas in your home are functioning correctly, a good, thorough cleaning is never a bad idea. 

Even if it turns out that your property is not quite yet due for a full cleaning, a reputable local cleanup service can help such as removing any excess pollen or debris that has accumulated in the vents. This way, you can save a great deal of time, money and worry by taking timely preventative measures. Keeping the proper level of air quality in your home or commercial building will go a long way toward keeping the structure safe for your family or employees to inhabit. An expert local service will ultimately save you a great deal of time and stress.

Expert Help for Dryer Vent Cleaning Is Available 

At SERVPRO of Matteson - Homewood, we know that dryer vent cleaning prevents fires. This is only one of the many services that we can provide for you to make sure that your home or commercial property will be safe against the event of an unforeseen mishap or emergency. If an emergency should befall your property, you'll want to call a service that can get to you in a prompt and timely manner. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

If you are in need of quick and efficient dryer vent cleaning, we're here to assist you. 

Why It Is Important to Eliminate the Soot from Fire Damage in Homewood Properties

11/19/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Rids Your Homewood Property of Smoke and Soot

Odor and Cleaning After a Fire Takes Skill and Equipment

You might think that the biggest danger a domestic fire can pose is burning flames. After all, it is the most obvious, immediate indication that a major problem is developing. Yet, we know that this isn’t always the case because soot and smoke are far more insidious.

They move faster than flames and produce toxic debris that can enter the lungs and cause respiratory difficulties. For this reason, you’re advised to steer well clear of a house fire and let the professionals safely neutralize it. Fire damage in Homewood properties is a stressful experience, but with help from the SERVPRO team, you can turn things around quickly.

This guide to dealing with fire damage will tell you a little bit about why soot residue is such a challenge and how it can be eliminated.

What Is Soot?
Soot is a by-product of incomplete combustion between a form of fuel (vinyl or plastic for example) and the oxygen in the air. It is a fine, black and greasy substance which clings to walls and ceilings after a fire. Soot can be tough to clean because it stains and smears surfaces. It usually produces a pretty unpleasant smell too.

How Is Soot Removed from Fire Damaged Properties?
SERVPRO has access to a range of cutting-edge tools and equipment. We have also developed a number of highly effective techniques for soot removal and restoration. The team will use a combination of brushes, cleaning detergents, and ozone deodorizers to lift the oily substance from furniture and prevent it from leaving stains.

This is a delicate process, but it is important that high standards are adhered to, and the right methods are used. We follow the best practices of the IICRC. Just wiping at soot patches isn’t usually effective, especially when it comes to soft furnishings like sofas, mattresses, curtains, and carpets. Porous items will need the most attention and some objects may have to be removed from the site and sent to our Esporta Washers or one of our specialist cleaning facilities.

Can You Get Rid of the Smell Too?
As soot and smoke produce an acrid, lingering odor, deodorizing machines will be brought into the property to boost the circulation of fresh air and push denser, toxic particles towards special odor killing ‘ozone’ molecules. These molecules eliminate the unwanted smell on contact and then revert back to oxygen. This process requires vacating the premises until the ozone gas has dissipated or converted.

Once complete, the deodorizing process leaves the home smelling fresh and clean. However, this is the final stage of the remediation project. First, a full inspection is carried out and then the home is cleaned as thoroughly as possible.

If your home or business suffers fire damage, you need the best help and advice around. SERVPRO of Matteson-Homewood is a locally based franchise so that we can respond to emergencies in this region at any time. Call us 24/7 at (708) 747-9925.