Fall Prep: Smooth Seasonal Transition

8/30/2024 (Permalink)

How to Prepare Your Property for Fall: Essential Tips for a Smooth Transition

As the vibrant hues of summer give way to the crispness of fall, it's the perfect time to prepare your property for the changing season. Proper preparation can help protect your home from the elements and ensure a smooth transition into the cooler months. Here’s an in-depth guide to getting your property ready for fall:

1. Thoroughly Inspect and Clean Gutters

The fall season brings a cascade of leaves that can quickly clog gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which might damage your roof, walls, and foundation. Regularly clean your gutters to prevent these issues. Additionally, ensure downspouts direct water at least five feet away from your home’s foundation to prevent water accumulation that could lead to basement flooding.

2. Prepare Your Heating System

Before the temperatures drop, it’s crucial to have your heating system inspected by a professional. Replace air filters to ensure efficient airflow and check for any repairs or maintenance needs. An efficiently running heating system not only keeps your home warm but also helps in avoiding sudden breakdowns when you need it the most. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat to optimize energy use and manage heating costs more effectively.

3. Seal Drafts and Enhance Insulation

As fall settles in, drafts around windows and doors can lead to increased heating costs. Inspect your home for drafts and use weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps. Additionally, evaluate your home’s insulation. Proper insulation in attics, walls, and basements can prevent heat loss, improve comfort, and protect against issues like frozen pipes during the colder months.

4. Prepare Your Yard and Landscaping

Your yard requires attention as fall approaches. Rake leaves regularly to prevent them from piling up and causing potential damage to your lawn. Trim overgrown branches and shrubs that might pose a risk of falling or blocking walkways. Fall is also a good time to plant winter-resistant plants and fertilize your lawn to prepare it for the spring.

5. Inspect Your Roof and Chimney

Your roof and chimney endure a lot throughout the year, so it’s essential to give them some attention before the fall weather arrives. Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles and have any issues repaired promptly to avoid leaks. For homes with chimneys, schedule a cleaning and inspection to remove soot and creosote buildup, which can prevent dangerous chimney fires and ensure safe operation when you use your fireplace.

6. Check and Winterize Exterior Faucets

Exterior faucets are susceptible to freezing in colder weather, which can lead to burst pipes and water damage. Disconnect garden hoses and drain any remaining water from outdoor spigots. Insulate exterior faucets with foam covers or wrap them in insulation to protect them from freezing temperatures.

7. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies

Fall can bring severe weather, including storms and power outages. It’s wise to prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as a flashlight, batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, and a first aid kit. Having these supplies on hand ensures that you’re ready for any unexpected events.

8. Inspect and Clean Dryer Vents

Fall is an excellent time to check and clean your dryer vents. Lint buildup can be a fire hazard, so ensure your dryer is vented properly and clean the lint trap and vent hose regularly to prevent potential fires.

9. Update Home Safety Devices

Test and replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Properly functioning safety devices are crucial for protecting your home and family during the fall and winter months.

How SERVPRO® Can Assist

While preparing your property for fall involves proactive measures to safeguard against potential issues, unexpected problems can still arise. That's where SERVPRO comes in, offering comprehensive support to help you navigate any challenges. Here’s how SERVPRO can be your trusted partner:

1. Water Damage Restoration

Fall rains and clogged gutters can lead to water damage in your home. SERVPRO’s highly trained technicians use advanced equipment to quickly remove water and dry affected areas, preventing mold growth and further damage.

2. Mold Remediation

Increased moisture levels can lead to mold growth, especially in hidden areas like attics and basements. SERVPRO’s mold remediation services include thorough inspection, containment, air filtration, and removal, ensuring your home is safe and mold-free.

3. Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration

As you start using your fireplace, the risk of chimney fires increases. If a fire does occur, SERVPRO provides comprehensive fire and smoke damage restoration, including soot and odor removal, to restore your home to its pre-fire condition.

4. Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration

Severe fall storms can cause significant damage to your property. SERVPRO offers 24/7 emergency services to help you recover quickly. From removing fallen trees to repairing structural damage, SERVPRO is equipped to handle all aspects of storm damage restoration.

5. HVAC Cleaning and Maintenance

A well-maintained HVAC system is crucial for staying comfortable during the colder months. SERVPRO offers HVAC cleaning services to improve air quality and system efficiency, helping you stay warm and healthy all season long.

6. Sewage and Biohazard Cleanup

Flooding and heavy rains can sometimes lead to sewage backups, posing serious health risks. SERVPRO’s professional cleanup services ensure that contaminated water is safely removed, and affected areas are thoroughly sanitized.

7. Preventative Maintenance and Consultation

SERVPRO can also provide preventative maintenance services and expert consultations to help you identify potential risks and implement effective solutions. By addressing issues before they become major problems, you can save time, money, and stress.

At SERVPRO, we understand the importance of protecting your home and family as the seasons change. Our team is dedicated to providing prompt, efficient, and professional service to help you prepare for and navigate the challenges of fall. Contact SERVPRO today to learn more about our comprehensive services and how we can assist you in maintaining a safe and comfortable home.

For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Frankfort at (815)485-6901 or https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/il/SERVPRO-of-frankfort.

Essential Safety Checks for a Safe and Cozy Season

8/14/2024 (Permalink)

As the warmth of summer begins to fade and the crisp air of fall approaches, it's time to start thinking about preparing your home for the change in season. With just a few more weeks until fall, there's no better time to focus on safety measures that will keep your household secure throughout the colder months. Among the most critical tasks are checking your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are your first line of defense against potentially life-threatening situations, and ensuring they are in working order is essential as you transition into fall.

Why Fall Is the Perfect Time for Safety Checks

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, we naturally spend more time indoors. This increased indoor activity often includes the use of heating systems, fireplaces, and candles—elements that can elevate the risk of fires and carbon monoxide exposure. Fall is also the season when many of us start using space heaters or lighting the fireplace for the first time in months, making it crucial to ensure that all safety devices are functioning properly.

The Importance of Fire Alarms

Fire alarms are vital in providing early warnings of a potential fire, giving you and your family the crucial seconds needed to evacuate safely. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by 55%. However, these alarms need regular maintenance to function correctly. As you prepare for fall, take the time to test each fire alarm in your home. Replace batteries if necessary, and consider upgrading to alarms with a 10-year sealed battery, so you don’t have to worry about changing batteries annually.

Don’t Forget About Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in large quantities. CO can leak from any fuel-burning appliance, such as furnaces, water heaters, stoves, and fireplaces. Since these appliances are often in higher use during fall and winter, ensuring your carbon monoxide detectors are working is critical. Just like fire alarms, CO detectors should be tested regularly, and batteries should be replaced as needed. If your detector is more than five years old, it may be time for a replacement.

Simple Steps for a Safer Home

Here are a few simple steps you can take as part of your fall home safety routine:

1. Test All Alarms: Press the test button on each alarm and listen for the alert. If the sound is weak or nonexistent, replace the batteries or the entire unit if necessary.
2. Check Expiration Dates: Smoke alarms and CO detectors have a limited lifespan, typically 7-10 years. Check the manufacturing date on the back of the device to ensure it's still within its effective period.
3. Install Alarms in Key Areas: Make sure alarms are installed on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas and in the kitchen.
4. Practice a Fire Drill: Ensure that everyone in your household knows the sound of the alarms and what to do in case of an emergency. Review your escape plan and identify two ways out of every room.

How SERVPRO® Can Help

As you prepare your home for the upcoming fall season, remember that SERVPRO is here to assist. Whether you need a thorough cleaning after a summer of fun or you're looking to ensure your home is safe and secure, SERVPRO offers services to help you maintain your home’s safety and cleanliness. Our team of professionals can perform inspections and cleanings that help reduce fire risks, ensuring your home is ready for whatever fall brings.

Taking the time now to check your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors can make all the difference in keeping your home and family safe this fall. And remember, SERVPRO is always just a call away, ready to help you with all your home preparation needs.

For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Frankfort at (815)485-6901 or https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/il/SERVPRO-of-frankfort.

A Blend of Meaningful Work and Outstanding Benefits

8/3/2024 (Permalink)

What Makes a Good Job Suitable?

Finding the right job is a crucial step toward career satisfaction and personal fulfillment. A suitable job not only meets financial needs but also aligns with personal values, career goals, and lifestyle preferences. Here are some general qualities that make a job suitable:

1. Meaningful Responsibilities: Engaging tasks that challenge and provide a sense of accomplishment.
2. Work-Life Balance: Hours and flexibility that support personal and professional life harmony.
3. Benefits and Compensation: Comprehensive benefits and fair pay for long-term security and well-being.
4. Growth Opportunities: Chances for professional development and career advancement.
5. Positive Work Environment: A supportive, collaborative atmosphere that promotes job satisfaction.
6. Clear Requirements: Defined job expectations and necessary qualifications that match your skills.

Why SERVPRO® is a Great Job Choice

SERVPRO, a leader in fire and water restoration services, exemplifies these key factors, making it an excellent job choice. Here's why:

Responsibilities

At SERVPRO, you will engage in a variety of meaningful and challenging responsibilities, including:

• Fire and Water Restoration: Play a crucial role in helping families and businesses recover from disasters.
• Cleaning: Maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene in various settings.
• Inventory Management: Ensure that all necessary equipment and supplies are available and accounted for.
• Driving Company Vehicles: Transport materials and personnel to job sites efficiently and safely.
• On-Site Cleanup and Restoration: Perform hands-on tasks to exceed customer satisfaction and make a tangible difference in people's lives.

Work Hours

SERVPRO offers a structured yet flexible work schedule:

• Core Weekday Hours: Standard hours of 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM provide consistency and predictability.
• Extra Hours: Opportunities for additional work hours when needed allow for increased earnings.
• Emergency Services: Some positions include after-hours emergency service rotation, adding variety and excitement to the job.
• Steady Full-Time Work: Enjoy a reliable 40+ hour workweek, ensuring job stability.

Benefits

SERVPRO provides a comprehensive benefits package that supports long-term well-being:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive Coverage for Peace of Mind SERVPRO offers a robust health insurance plan that ensures you and your family have access to quality medical care. This coverage includes a range of services from routine check-ups to emergency care, helping you maintain your health without the worry of high medical costs.
• Paid Vacation: Time to Recharge and Reconnect Employees at SERVPRO enjoy paid vacation time, allowing you to take necessary breaks to rest and recharge. This time off is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, preventing burnout, and spending quality time with family and friends.
• Retirement Matching: Secure Your Financial Future Planning for the future is made easier with SERVPRO’s retirement matching program. This benefit helps you build a substantial retirement fund, ensuring financial security in your later years. By matching your contributions, SERVPRO shows a commitment to your long-term well-being.
• Professional Development: Invest in Your Growth SERVPRO values the professional growth of its employees. The company offers various training programs and opportunities for advancement within the organization. This investment in your development not only enhances your skills but also opens doors for career progression.
• Employee Assistance Programs: Support When You Need It SERVPRO understands that life can present challenges. Employee assistance programs are available to provide support for personal or work-related issues. These programs offer confidential counseling and resources to help you navigate difficult times.
• Recognition and Rewards: Acknowledging Your Hard Work At SERVPRO, hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed. The company has a robust recognition and rewards program to celebrate employee achievements and milestones. Whether through bonuses, awards, or public acknowledgment, your contributions are valued and appreciated.
• Wellness Programs: Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle SERVPRO promotes a healthy lifestyle through various wellness programs. These initiatives might include gym memberships, wellness challenges, and health-related workshops aimed at improving your overall well-being. Staying healthy and active is easier with the support of your employer.

Requirements

To ensure you are a good fit for the job, SERVPRO has clear requirements:

• Valid Driver's License: Necessary for driving company vehicles.
• Background Check: Ensures a safe and trustworthy work environment.
• Physical Ability: Capability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Helping Nature: A genuine desire to assist others in their time of need.

Job Highlights

Working at SERVPRO offers several unique advantages:

• Rewarding Work: Hands-on tasks with direct supervisor interaction provide a fulfilling and dynamic work experience.
• Room for Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement are abundant.

Choosing a job at SERVPRO means not only meeting your career and financial goals but also becoming part of a team that makes a real difference in people's lives. If you value meaningful work, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for growth, SERVPRO could be the perfect fit for you. Join the SERVPRO team and help restore hope and normalcy to those in need.

For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Frankfort at (815)485-6901 or https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/il/SERVPRO-of-frankfort.

Why Choose Us?

8/1/2024 (Permalink)

Why Choose SERVPRO ® for Your Restoration Needs?

When disaster strikes, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your home or business will be restored to its pre-damage state. This is where SERVPRO comes in. As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO provides advanced training and equipment necessary to clean and restore your property efficiently and effectively. Here’s why you should choose SERVPRO for your restoration needs.

Expertise and Advanced Technology

SERVPRO stands out due to its unparalleled expertise and cutting-edge technology. Each team is locally owned and operated, consisting of certified professionals ready to respond any day, any time. We provide comprehensive residential and commercial services, including 24-hour emergency service. Our advanced restoration technology and cleaning techniques ensure we are faster to any size disaster™, making us the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration.

Comprehensive Services

Whether you’re dealing with fire, smoke, or water damage, SERVPRO has you covered. Our teams are equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies, minimizing the disruption to your life and quickly making it "Like it never even happened." We understand the stress and worry that come with property damage and are committed to restoring your home or business with the utmost care and efficiency.

Local Commitment, National Reach

SERVPRO has been proudly serving communities for over 10 years, offering expert cleanup and restoration services tailored to meet the specific needs of each community. While we are locally owned and operated, we also benefit from a nationwide network of qualified franchises. This means that no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO. Our extensive network ensures that we can provide swift and comprehensive services, regardless of the scale of the disaster.

Continuous Training and Certification

Our staff undergoes continuous training at SERVPRO’s corporate facility and maintains IICRC-industry certification. This commitment to ongoing education ensures that our teams are always equipped with the latest knowledge and technologies in the restoration industry. When you choose SERVPRO, you can rest assured that you are getting the best in property damage restoration.

24/7 Availability

Emergencies don’t wait for convenient times to occur, which is why SERVPRO offers 24-hour emergency service. Our teams are always ready to respond to your call, providing quick and efficient restoration services whenever you need them. We pride ourselves on our quick response times and our ability to act swiftly to mitigate damage and begin the restoration process.

Customer Satisfaction

At SERVPRO, our goal is to minimize the interruption to your life and ensure complete customer satisfaction. We understand how overwhelming property damage can be, and we provide compassionate and comprehensive services to restore your peace of mind. From the moment you call us to the final walk-through of your restored property, we are committed to delivering exceptional service and results.

Don't just take our word for it—check out our rating! With an overall rating of 4.8, our satisfied customer testimonials speak volumes about the quality of our services. We take pride in the positive feedback and high ratings we consistently receive from our clients, reinforcing our commitment to excellence.

Call Us Today

If you need service for your home or business, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO today. With our expertise, advanced technology, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we are here to help you through any restoration challenge. Let us make it "Like it never even happened."

Contact SERVPRO

We are here to help you recover from any disaster, big or small.

By choosing SERVPRO, you are choosing a company that combines local commitment with national resources, ensuring that you receive the best restoration services available. Trust SERVPRO to handle your property damage restoration needs with professionalism, efficiency, and care.

For more information on our services or to schedule an appointment, contact SERVPRO of Frankfort at (815)485-6901 or https://www.SERVPRO.com/locations/il/SERVPRO-of-frankfort.

4 Homeowner Fix-it Hacks for Your Frankfort Home

2/22/2018 (Permalink)

Use these handy time-saving and stress-reducing hacks around the home and make your life easier:

How to Stop Window Screen Tears

Got any nail polish around the house?  Apply some clear nail polish on window screen fray’s and cuts to stop them in their tracks!!

Fill Nail Holes with Toothpaste

Need to fill some nail holes but don’t have any spackling handy?  That’s ok.  Just grab a tube of non-gel toothpaste, smoosh it into your nail holes, and wipe of the excess.  Presto!

Free Up a Clogged Shower Head

Fill up a ziplock sandwich bag about halfway with vinegar and tie it over your shower head with rubber bands, let it sit overnight, and in the morning remove the bag.  Now your previously clogged shower head will shoot out water likes it’s brand new again!

Sharpen Dull Scissors Easily

Sharpen up dull scissors with this handy trick: take several sheets of aluminum foil and fold them in half.  Then cut them with the scissors eight times.  Your scissors will now be razor-sharp and ready to use.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Frankfort provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Get The Most Out of Your Firewood This Winter

2/8/2018 (Permalink)

Use these 4 practical steps to get the most out of your firewood this winter:

Use Seasoned Firewood - Good fire wood is “aged”, or seasoned, just like a good wine.  It takes time to for enough moisture to get out of a tree once it’s cut down.  You want your firewood to be seasoned at least a few months, if not a full year.  However, you can save money if you buy unseasoned, or green, firewood in the spring and store it yourself until the cold weather comes.  

Keep Your Stored Firewood Off The Ground - This will help keep moisture, bugs and critters away from your firewood, and prevent rot, mold growth and decay.  Use a couple of 2x4’s, wood pallets or a tubular wood rack.

Keep Your Stored Firewood Far Enough Away From Your House - Store your firewood in the closest practical location to your fireplace, but remember, your wood pile will attract critters, so stack firewood at least six feet away from your house.

Stack Your Wood Pile In a Criss Cross Pattern -  This will allow air to circulate through your wood pile and help keep it dry.  However, be suspicious if a company offers to stack your wood for you this way.  Wood piled in this manner naturally takes up more space, so make sure you are getting all the wood you have paid for.

As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Frankfort provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Be prepared for a local disaster in Frankfort

9/14/2017 (Permalink)

The United States has been affected by many disasters, including Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Erma in Florida. In order to be prepared for such disasters, you must think ahead and have a plan in place. For information on disaster preparedness, visit www.ready.gov, or call your local SERVPRO of Frankfort. SERVPRO® Professionals can help your business prepare for the unexpected by creating an Emergency READY Profile® for your facility. The Profile is designed to be a quick and easy snapshot of your business, providing critical facility information needed for detailed emergency preparation.

The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you and your business is “Ready for whatever happens.” In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations, and priority areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO’s free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet. The ERP establishes your local SERVPRO® of Frankfort Professionals as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to 50 years’ experience and a System more than 1,700 Franchises strong. Knowing what to do and who to call in advance is key to quick response and timely mitigation. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire or an area flood. The best time to plan for such events is not when the event happens, but well before it happens. No one ever plans on a disaster, but now, you can plan for it. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save a lot of time in the future. Call your local SERVPRO® of Frankfort Professionals to establish your Emergency READY Profile®.

Are you Prepared for a power outage?

3/8/2017 (Permalink)

You may need to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days. Depending on the nature of the disaster road conditions may prevent help from arriving in a timely manner. 

Additionally, basic services such as electricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages.  If the power goes out keep your pipes from freezing by shutting off the valve that allows water to come into your home. Then, open any drain valves and all faucets and let them run until the pipes are empty (it's helpful to identify these valves in advance). Next, flush all toilets and pour denatured alcohol into toilets and sinks to prevent water in the traps from freezing. Do NOT use automotive antifreeze in case there's trouble with your water system; you don't want the antifreeze to contaminate your drinking water. You may, however, use nontoxic antifreeze that's made for winterizing motor homes.

Be prepared for a power outage by keeping necessary items centrally located in your home. Take the time to ensure that everyone in your family is aware of the "kit." Periodically check your kit to see that batteries operate properly. The following is a list of items that are suggested to keep on hand:

1.     Flashlights for each family member

2.     Battery-operated radio and clock

3.     Extra batteries

4.     Containers of bottled water

5.     Canned, freeze-dried or dehydrated food, powdered milk, baby supplies for infants

6.     Non-electric can opener

7.     List of important phone numbers

8.     First-aid kit

Following a disaster, there may be power outages that could last for several days. Stock canned foods, dry mixes and other staples that do not require refrigeration, cooking, water or special preparation. Be sure to include a manual can opener and eating utensils. The following items are suggested when selecting emergency food supplies. You may already have many of these on hand.

•Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

•Choose foods your family will eat.

•Remember any special dietary needs.

•Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

•Choose salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned foods with high liquid content.

•Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables and a can opener

•Protein or fruit bars

•Dry cereal or granola

•Peanut butter

•Dried fruit

•Nuts

•Crackers

•Canned juices

•Non-perishable pasteurized milk

•High energy foods

•Vitamins

•Food for infants

•Comfort/stress foods

These and many other helpful tips are available at ready.gov Here is the link to winter tips for before during and after a winter storm http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather When winter weather strikes the Frankfort Lincoln-Way area knowing what to do until SERVPRO of Frankfort arrives will make a difference.  Call us directly at 815-485-6901.