Firefighter Challenge!

8/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^® served as the title sponsor for the Firefighter Challenge Championship Series! During this three-day event, first responders competed in vigorous tasks that showcased the immense strength, effort and dedication that goes into their duties on a daily basis. Participants from fire departments nationwide demonstrated their heroic qualities by completing obstacles such as climbing a staircase with a heavy load and carrying a 175-pound dummy across the course in under two minutes.

SERVPRO of Cecil County continues to be impressed by the feats accomplished by the fire department members, and we are honored to know several of them personally.

SERVPRO of Cecil County remains committed to supporting our first responders through various efforts!

Tree Collapse Destroys North East Shed

7/5/2024 (Permalink)

A homeowner in North East contacted us following a tree collapse in his yard that resulted in the destruction of a shed.  In such instances requiring tree removal, SERVPRO of Cecil County collaborates with local partners to provide assistance.  Our team then will relocate all items for storage, demolish the structure if necessary, and clear the area of debris.

When needed, SERVPRO of Cecil County offers storage services until a property is fully restored, often extending this support during fire or severe storm incidents.  Additionally, we provide board up and other services like security fencing to safeguard properties when necessary.  This particular area was quickly cleared within hours to prevent further damage or risks.

SERVPRO of Cecil County provides a variety of services to aid home and business owners with their unique needs.  When your property suffers a natural disaster, give us a call to learn how we can help!

Summer Preparation!

5/28/2024 (Permalink)

As we approach the summer season, it is important to recognize the potential risks to both yourself and your property due to the shift in climate and activities associated with this time of year.  SERVPRO of Cecil County would like to remind you to stay cautious while enjoying the season!

• Grilling: If you're planning a barbecue or cookout, make sure to follow proper grilling safety guidelines to help prevent fire damage.  Keep your grill at least 10 feet away from your home or any flammable materials, and never leave it unattended while in use. Regularly clear the grill of excess grease and cooking residue.
• Fireworks Safety: If you plan to use fireworks during any celebrations, follow local laws and regulations regarding their use.  Always have a designated adult supervise fireworks activities, and never point them at people, animals, or structures.
• Mold: Regularly clean areas that are prone to moisture. This will help to prevent mold from growing. Bathrooms and the area around your windows are often found to contain mold.
• Hurricane Season: Stay alert to local weather reports and have an evacuation plan prepared. Create an emergency kit in the event of a power outage or other storm damage disaster.

By keeping these safety tips in mind, you can ensure an enjoyable summer while prioritizing the well-being of yourself and those around you.  Should you suffer an unexpected disaster, SERVPRO of Cecil County can restore the affected areas to preloss conditions!

Preventing Mold Damage in the Spring!

2/22/2024 (Permalink)

Spring brings its own mold challenges.  The rainy season and warmer climate can cause mold to form unexpectedly.  Luckily, there are ways to stop mold in its tracks!

Keep your home dry. 

Mold feeds on moisture and wet areas.  Check your property for signs of leaks or cracks along your windows and doors where warm air can get in.

Inspect mold-prone areas.

Mold can grow quickly in places such as bathrooms where shower curtains and wet tiles are present.  Laundry rooms attract mold due to damp clothes or a humid environment, while window sills can collect moisture.  Clean these areas often.

Invest in an air purifier.

These help to trap and eliminate mold spores in a given space in addition to helping prevent those spores from entering a property.

Look for signs of water damage or strange odors.

After a water leak, mold can often be found inside the walls where it needs to be tested by a professional for the degree of severity.  A strong odor can be a questionable concern.

If you suspect mold, act fast!  Mold can spread in as little as 48 hours, but SERVPRO of Cecil County is equipped to respond immediately!  For a free assessment, give us a call!

Preventing Seasonal Water and Storm Damage

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

While we typically think of snow and frigid temperatures this time of year as well as what that may bring, we have also experienced a vast majority of rain this season!  It is important to always remain prepared for any storm when it comes to your Cecil County property.  Below, we list several preventative actions that can help!

When it rains…

• Clear your gutters and downspouts of any debris to avoid a potential blockage. You should also ensure that your drainage system is pointing away from your property.
• Make sure that your sump pump is working properly.  We recommend investing in a battery backup to help prevent water damage.
• Look for signs of leaks. Moisture or wet walls are a bad sign.

 When it snows…

• Do not let snow accumulate too heavily on your roof. When the snow freezes, the ice can cause a blockage and leave the melting snow to have nowhere to go but into your property.
• In low temperatures, check for signs of frozen pipes.  This includes strange noises or odors as well as low or no water pressure.
• Check any signs of roof damage before and after any severe storm. This could save you from water damage later. Look for broken or missing roof tiles or signs of leaks.

SERVPRO of Cecil County is on standby for when water or storm damage strikes!  Should you suffer an unexpected disaster and not know where to turn, give us a call!  We will guide you through the process as we perform the proper cleaning and restoration services!

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl!

12/28/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^® is proud to hold its own college football game every December in honor of our national police, fire and EMS departments that put their lives on the line every day!  This game acknowledges these departments and some of the officials involved.  This year, the game was once again held at the Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas and broadcast on ESPN!

The SERVPRO^® First Responder Bowl gives back through various organizations, such as the Guns and Hoses Foundation of North Texas.  This foundation aids in the support needed for families of fallen firefighters, police officers and other emergency personnel.  As SERVPRO^® continues our commitment to our first responders, it was recently announced that the games have been extended for another three years!

SERVPRO of Cecil County strives to support our local fire and police departments when the need arises!  We are proud to be a part of growing our support to first responders on a local level!

Assisting Through the Disaster!

12/13/2023 (Permalink)

What do you do when you have fire or water damage?

An electrical fire, water leak or structural issue can lead to a big disaster, especially if you don’t know where to turn.  SERVPRO of Cecil County can lift that burden off of you!

Our first step is to visit the site, assess the damage and determine the best plan of action for restoring the property.  We then work with your insurance provider on getting started and ensuring that you are covered for any restoration and repairs needed.

Once the water or fire damage restoration process begins, we utilize our advanced techniques and equipment to remove signs of water and smoke from all surfaces.  We tear out structural components that are damaged such as the drywall, baseboards and trim affected.  The areas that pose a larger threat to the integrity of the structure, such as a ceiling on the brink of collapse, are also removed safely.

As we continue the process of fire and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Cecil County will continue to check in with you and your insurance company to ensure everything is running smoothly with no concerns.  Our team is here to help guide you throughout this process as we clean up the mess!

Restoring What Was Lost

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be overwhelming for our clients, but what do you do once the water is gone?  During the water restoration process, SERVPRO of Cecil County often needs to remove various structural components of your home or facility, such as drywall, insulation or even the affected flooring.  By removing these elements, water can be found in areas that are difficult to reach where our air movers can then eliminate further signs of water that can cause mold later down the road.

But once this is complete, those areas need to be replaced with new materials.  That’s where our Reconstruction Department can help!  SERVPRO of Cecil County has an entire division focused on your rebuilding needs in order to help make any size disaster truly “Like it never even happened.”  We provide services in areas such as the replacement of insulation, drywall, trim, baseboards, carpets and various flooring.  Our reconstruction team can also help with painting, document drying and furniture restoration.

When it comes to higher scale disasters, we work with our local partners on needs such as boarding up and temporary fencing to secure a property after a fire has occurred.  After a storm, we can also assist with roof tarping and tree removal services.

SERVPRO of Cecil County is proud to have the resources and expertise to handle a water or fire damage disaster from beginning to end in order to help our customers put an upsetting situation behind them!

Identifying Odors

9/8/2023 (Permalink)

An odor can be a sign of a serious problem in your Cecil County home or business.  Odors should be assessed and handled immediately to help eliminate and prevent further damage.  Should you have a musty smell in your basement for instance, this could be a sign of mold growth.  The stronger the odor, the more likely that you have a significant mold issue.

Other odors to be wary of include a dirty or stale smell that may even smell like rotting plants.  This is a sign of mold damage.

If an area of your home smells like rotten eggs, this could mean that you have water damage.  This odor can be created due to the water and humidity present in those areas.

Strange or oily smells emanating from your boiler or furnace in the winter can be a sign that the oil in your system is building up and potentially preparing to burst out of your heating system.  When this occurs, the smoke and soot damage left behind is called a puffback.

When these odors occur in your property, services should be performed immediately to identify and recover the affected areas.  Should you suspect an issue, SERVPRO of Cecil County can provide a free assessment to determine the source of the problem.  In the event that you suspect mold, we also can provide information for mold testing.  We work with several providers for that service and your peace of mind!

Sewage Cleanup in Conowingo

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County has cleaned up our fair share of sewage damage.  Several Cecil County homes were recently affected by septic backups, including this extreme loss in Conowingo.  The toilet had malfunctioned, causing this gruesome sewage mess that should only be handled by professionals.

Our restoration team properly removed the sewage and cleaned the affected areas with our hospital-grade cleaning solution which is also environmentally friendly for those who are sensitive to various chemicals.  Our crew performed top to bottom disinfection of the floors, walls, toilet and bathroom vanity in this space.  This was not the first time the homeowner had suffered this type of damage, so luckily some of the affected areas were already torn out and therefore easier to mitigate.

Incorrectly handling a sewage backup can lead to hazardous health conditions, so SERVPRO of Cecil County always recommends bringing in someone who can handle the loss from beginning to end!  We can also ensure that the proper steps are being taken, such as not running fans that will allow the sewage particles in the air to circulate throughout the home.  We have our own air scrubbers to help capture those particles!  Should you suffer sewage damage, give us a call before taking any drastic steps!

Team Hughes Has Grown!

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County is proud to share our big news!!  Team Hughes has acquired two new franchises to add to our portfolio and areas of service, SERVPRO of Lancaster East and SERVPRO of Southern Lancaster County.  We are excited to welcome Lancaster into our territories, which also includes our SERVPRO of Kennett Square/Oxford franchise.

Should you need our expertise in Cecil County, Chester County or our newly obtained Lancaster area, please give us a call!  Our teams are prepared to respond to any cleaning or restoration need for local residential and commercial clients.  We are also excited to meet our local business partners and organizations in this new territory as we expand our coverage!

Are You Prepared for Spring?

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

Spring is almost here, which means that a lot of us will begin our spring cleaning routines.  SERVPRO of Cecil County would like to remind you that we are here for those needs as well!

If you are thinking about getting your carpets, tile floors, upholstery or even area rugs cleaned, we can help with that!

When’s the last time you took a look at your ducts?  Duct cleaning is recommended every 5-7 years, depending on certain factors in your home or business such as pet dander.

Looking for more of a deep cleaning?  Our cleaning professionals can clean and disinfect all walls, ceilings and surfaces from top to bottom, even light switches and door knobs.

No matter the level of cleaning you are considering this spring, SERVPRO of Cecil County can assist you.  We offer free estimates for all of our services, and we can help you to determine what level of cleaning you may need to help keep your property in great shape!

A Mix of Water and Mold Damage

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

Discovering water damage and mold growth in your home or business is nothing to delay, especially when they go hand in hand.  Mold can grow quickly and in as little as 48 hours. When hidden water damage is added to the mix, the issue becomes much more serious, since this means your structure has not been fully dried like you had thought.

Hiring a certified restoration professional can help with this issue.  SERVPRO of Cecil County uses advanced drying equipment and mold remediation techniques that can help to remove all further signs of water or mold, even from those hard to reach or concealed areas.

Recently, our water restoration professionals stopped out to a local home that had suffered water damage from a faulty kitchen faucet.  The cabinet was removed, and we discovered this mold along the drywall.  Water had also traveled into the basement of the home.  We began mold and water damage services immediately for this contractor who we have assisted on many occasions for the properties they work on.  All damages were handled properly, and the affected areas were restored to preloss conditions.

SERVPRO of Cecil County provides 24/7 services to those who have suffered a water or fire damage event, but we also take as much care in the common issues that arise in our homes and businesses.  Mold remediation, general cleaning, biohazard cleanup and post construction cleaning are just a few of the services we provide to the Elkton area.  Our team strives to help restore any disaster you may suffer as quickly and efficiently as possible!

Is Your Business Covered?

9/8/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that business interruption insurance is a separate form of insurance coverage from your typical plan?  This additional coverage will help to cover you in the event that your Cecil County business has to close due to unforeseen circumstances.  While typical insurance will cover your structure and content due to events such as fire, water, and mold damage, business interruption insurance will help cover the rest!

When your Cecil County property is forced to close, the effects can be a substantial financial burden on your company.  This type of insurance will help to cover the costs that your business will lose due to its closure.  Damaged goods that would otherwise be sold, the cost of a temporary building while the property is being restored, and even payroll for your employees out of work are all potential benefits of holding this insurance policy.

SERVPRO of Cecil County recommends speaking with your insurance provider in order to determine the best policy for your business and what to expect if an unexpected disaster occurs.  Should your home or facility suffer an unforeseen water, fire or storm damage situation, our restoration team can help restore the property to preloss conditions.  We will work with your insurance provider to help make the process run as smoothly as possible!

Three Levels of Cleaning

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County specializes in cleaning services for a variety of needs in our community.  Our team can handle services including carpet cleaning, HVAC duct cleaning, biohazard and hoarding cleanup and post construction cleaning.

During the cleaning process, we utilize several methods to help eliminate all potential signs of dirt, dust, and bacteria from all surface areas.  There are three cleaning levels:

Sanitize

Enough microorganisms are destroyed in order to promote good health.  Not all bacteria is removed.

Disinfect

99.9% of microorganisms are eliminated.  This level rids surfaces of harmful bacteria and viruses using harsher chemicals.

Sterilize

All microorganisms are destroyed.  This is the highest level of cleaning and is used in hospitals and other commercial settings.

SERVPRO of Cecil County often assists commercial facilities with their cleaning matters on the basis of urgency in order to minimize the damages and help keep the business open.  We offer hospital-grade and environmentally friendly cleaning solutions to help restore your Cecil County property from bacteria, viruses, dirt, and dust.  We also provide emergency response services for more pressing situations in order to help maintain a healthy and safe environment.

Lightning and Storm Safety

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to lightning, SERVPRO of Cecil County would like to remind everyone to please stay safe and follow all protocols in the event of storm damage.

One solution to help keep your Cecil County home safe from lightning is to install lightning rods.  These are used to intercept a strike and help force the energy safely away from your property.  While lightning rods can help prevent a direct lightning strike that can lead to a power outage or even fire damage, it isn’t always enough.  A complete protection system may be needed to prevent even further storm damage.

We recommend that you stock up on supplies for an emergency kit before a storm occurs. Items such as flashlights, extra batteries, a radio, non-perishable food and water should be easily accessible for those in your household or business.

In the event of fire or storm damage, a property should not be entered until you are told it is safe to do so.  These damages are often overwhelming, but SERVPRO of Cecil County can work with you and your insurance provider to make the process run smoothly.

Vandalism and Other Services in Cecil County!

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County provides a full spectrum of services to our community.  In addition to fire, water and mold services, we also assist our Elkton area with many situations that can be just as overwhelming to the customer, such as those involving hoarding and oil cleanup.

Our professionals also provide vandalism services in the event of structural damage to your home or business.  Our Reconstruction team can assist you with boarding up your property after fire or storm damage.  We offer full structural repairs including those involving damages to doors, windows and even your roof.  We also offer advanced vandalism services for needs such as graffiti removal.

Should you need assistance with your Elkton property after an unforeseen event, SERVPRO of Cecil County is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”  Our professionals can help to repair all damages utilizing our advanced equipment, techniques and expertise.  We are trained in various aspects of the industry, strictly following the guidelines required by organizations such as the IICRC.

Cecil County Chamber Involvement!

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County is happy to participate in many community events in support of our local residents, businesses and organizations.  We play an active role in several Chambers of Commerce as well as the Cecil County Board of Realtors in our Elkton area.

Our franchise recently attended the Cecil County Chamber’s State of the County Address.  The Cecil County Executive and County Council President held this event for our local Elkton community.  Updates on the County were discussed as well as goals for the future. 

We appreciated that we were given the opportunity to attend this meeting while learning about what to expect next in support of our great community!  SERVPRO of Cecil County continues to contribute to the county, and we are proud to assist in more ways than our restoration and cleaning services!

Fire Safety this Holiday Season

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County hopes that everyone has a wonderful holiday season!  We want your holidays to be safe and free of fire hazards.  Below, the American Red Cross offers some helpful tips on how to keep your family, friends and business safe from fire damage.

• Christmas trees, candles and other decorations should be kept at least three feet away from fireplaces, heaters and heat vents.
• Only use lights that are in good condition.  Frayed electrical cords can cause a risk of fire damage.  Do not leave the tree or lights on if no one is present for an extended period of time.
• Do not use lit candles to decorate a tree.  Candles that are used in your home or business should be extinguished before leaving the premises.
• Use sturdy tree stands that will not pose the risk of falling over.
• Do not leave cooking unattended.  Keep materials that can catch fire away from the stove, including towels and pot holders.

SERVPRO of Cecil County is always prepared for fire or water damage in our local Elkton area.  We offer emergency services for your unexpected disaster, no matter the extent of the damage.  Our team is here to help at a moment’s notice and when it matters most!

Storm Damage in Cecil County after Hurricane Ida

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

After Hurricane Ida did its worst, Cecil County was heavily affected by the heavy winds and downpours in our region.  SERVPRO of Cecil County helped recover our Elkton area with many storm-related losses including flooding, sewage and structural damage.

One Elkton business that was significantly affected by the storm damage was a commercial flooring business.  The property had suffered a flooding of muddy water throughout the entire structure.  This took our advanced mitigation and drying procedures to a higher level since the building required much more equipment and attention in order to fully restore the business in an ample amount of time.

Our goal is always to keep our local businesses running and back to normal as quickly as possible.  We are proud to have the equipment and team available to do just that in times of need.

Should your home or business be affected by storm damage, SERVPRO of Cecil County is here to assist you in getting life back to normal.  We provide services after a hurricane, tornado or other large disaster.  Our highly trained team can help to restore storm damage including a roof collapse or sewage backup.  We are here to help and “Ready for Whatever Happens.”

Biohazard and Sewage Cleanup for a Local Municipality!

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County recently received a call from one of our local Municipalities regarding severe sewage damage in their facility.  Sewage had flowed into two rooms of the facility and required mitigation in addition to a thorough cleaning of the affected areas.  This included the ceiling, floors and content affected.

When sewage is present, it is critical to utilize best practices for cleaning and disinfecting all areas affected by the contamination.  Our IICRC-Certified team applies advanced anti-microbial and anti-fungal treatments in addition to hospital-grade cleaning solutions to fully sanitize and remediate the problem in regards to everyone’s health and safety.

Contaminated sewage water can quickly degrade into a more severe and hazardous issue if left untreated.  Any bacteria present in the sewage can quickly spread and cause health issues.  Therefore, we stress calling a certified professional immediately to resolve the problem before further damage can occur.

Should you have a biohazard, sewage or cleaning emergency, SERVPRO of Cecil County is prepared to help restore your Elkton home or facility at a moment's notice.  Our Biohazard team specializes in cleaning, disinfecting and deodorizing the affected areas involved in your contaminated environment!

Ceiling Leak and Water Damage in Perryville

6/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County was called to assist with water damage that had affected two stories of a local home in Perryville.  After the fire suppression system had been damaged on the second floor of the residence, water had leaked through the ceiling and into the living room of the home.

Our water restoration crews removed the pad and floated the carpet in several areas in order to fully extract and dry every inch of the home that could have been potentially affected by the water leak.  Treating these areas properly will prevent the risk of further water damage or mold growth.

Our Reconstruction Department also completed services for repairs and replacement of the ceiling and floors in order to fully restore the home to a preloss state.   As a locally owned and operated franchise, SERVPRO of Cecil County is happy to have the team, expertise and equipment to offer these services to our local Elkton community!

Surprising Mold Growth in North East!

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County recently visited a local home in North East with this extensive mold damage.  The home had suffered water damage several months ago, but the issue was not addressed properly.  The water damage and insufficient drying procedures then led to this gruesome mold growth.  Unaware of the growth, this homeowner’s situation became much more than a minor problem, and the mold damage had spread throughout the entire basement.

Our Elkton team frequently handles entire mold remediation projects such as this North East disaster.  This process includes capturing mold spores as well as preventing them from spreading further by utilizing our air scrubbers and containment techniques.  We also use anti-fungal and anti-microbial treatments to eliminate all signs of mold growth in the affected areas in addition to treating the air with our odor deodorization treatment to fully neutralize the contaminated areas.

SERVPRO of Cecil County provides mold remediation services to our local Elkton area for any extent of mold damage.  Our restoration team also offers 24/7 emergency services for fire and water damage throughout the Cecil County area. For a free consultation or estimate, give us a call today at 410-620-3322!

Preventing Sewage Damage in Elkton

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage damage can be an overwhelming experience due to its unpleasant nature and health risks.  At SERVPRO of Cecil County, we often restore homes and commercial facilities that have experienced some form of this damage.

Sewage water needs to be properly removed and dried in order to ensure a healthy and safe environment.  The best way to combat this damage is to prevent it in the first place.  Below are a few important actions you can take to help prevent sewage damage in your home or facility.

• Maintain your sewage pipeline and inspect the system for cracks or damage where contaminated water can enter the system.
• Dispose of products properly.  Regularly clean your drains to eliminate the risk of clogs.
• Install plastic piping for tree roots.  Some trees can grow roots that eventually grow into and block your sewer system.
• Install a backwater valve.  This is used to ensure that sewage exits the system properly.  It also prevents the sewage from entering the system again.

Sewage water is never pleasant.  SERVPRO of Cecil County is here to help, should the need arise.  We offer 24/7 emergency services to those in need regarding fire, water and sewage damage.  We also provide other biohazard services for our local Cecil County and Elkton communities.  Our crew is IICRC trained, meaning we have the proper training and cleaning techniques to fully clean and restore your Elkton property “Like it never even happened.”

Battling COVID-19 in North East, MD and Beyond!

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

During the pandemic, SERVPRO of Cecil County has received dozens of calls to help assist our local homeowners and businesses with helping to prevent and eliminate COVID-19 in our community.  We are proud to play a small part in fighting the virus by offering our cleaning and disinfecting services to those in need.

We recently received a call from a popular restaurant and fellow member of the Cecil County Chamber of Commerce after they suffered a confirmed case of the virus.  The owner of the North East facility requested our specialized cleaning services in order to disinfect and help remove any signs of COVID-19 in the building so that they could reopen immediately for their Cecil County guests.

SERVPRO of Cecil County is happy to offer this immediate service to our local businesses in order to minimize or prevent business interruption.  To learn more about our cleaning and disinfecting services or our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program for preventative cleanings on an ongoing basis, please give us a call at 410-620-3322.  We offer cleaning and disinfecting for any size facility on a proactive level as well as for potential or confirmed threats of COVID-19 in your home or business. 

Is Your Duct System Ready for the Cold?

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

The weather is getting cooler, which means you may have started to use your heating system. Before you turn on your system for good this fall, be sure to check for signs of dirt and debris that can circulate throughout the ducts in your home or business when the system is back up and running.

Heating systems should always be inspected and cleaned by a certified professional.  This will ensure that all systems are working properly and safely.  When it comes to unwanted particles in the system or your ductwork that can pose a threat to the air quality in your home, these professionals can also inspect those areas for you and recommend a duct cleaning if needed.

Often, our professionals at SERVPRO of Cecil County are asked to take care of duct cleaning for residential and commercial purposes.  We are happy to clean the entire duct system in your home using our specialized equipment and disinfectant.  We always strive to leave your home with a cleaner, healthier and safer environment for you and your family.  For cleaner and healthier air quality, give us a call today at 410-620-3322 for a free quote.

Hurricane Isaias Storm Damage

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

Our Storm Restoration team has been extremely busy helping to restore many homes in our local area after the damage that Hurricane Isaias left behind.  In addition to power outages and dangerously flooded roads, the massive rain and winds caused many homeowners and businesses to experience overwhelming water damage.  We received over 500 calls for storm damage including issues with flooded basements, failed sump pumps and sewage backups.

SERVPRO of Cecil County was happy to step up to help our local community with this high impact storm.  Over four weeks after the initial storm, we are continuing to work countless hours to help restore every customer’s property and are still receiving calls for damages.  Our Reconstruction Department is also at maximum capacity in order to repair the destruction and make each customer’s particular disaster “Like it never even happened.”  When storms happen, we are proud to assist our local community when it is needed the most. Should another storm invade our area during hurricane season, we will be prepared to help when the skies clear.

Preventing Roof Damage to your Cecil County Home

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County often receives calls from our local residents about roof damage to their homes.  During hurricane season and strong storms, this damage is extremely common.  Often, this damage can lead to water damage and flooding in your home as well.

As storms continue to occur in our area, our water and storm restoration professionals would like to remind you to inspect your property for any signs of roof or structural damage, or have a certified professional visit your home in order to take a closer look.

• Check your roof for broken or missing shingles or flashing.  This issue can cause strong storms to destroy parts of your roof as well as allow water to enter your home.
• Be mindful of water collecting on your roof.  This can mean that your roof is susceptible to leaks and therefore water damage.
• Gutters should also be checked and repaired if they are loose as well as cleaned to ensure they are not clogged.  This will ensure that water is being carried away from your home during a storm.
• It is important to trim any nearby trees and keep branches and limbs away from the roof.
• Inspect your attic as well for signs of roof damage by checking for signs of water or mold on the ceiling.

SERVPRO of Cecil County is here to help during any size storm disaster!  We offer 24/7 emergency services for fire, water and storm damage.  For more information, please give us a call at 410-620-3322.

We are Experts in Cleaning and Disinfecting!

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables.  Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

• Kitchen/Food Areas
• Bathrooms
• Schools/Classrooms
• Offices
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Shelving/Racks
• Sales Counters
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair Handrails
• Elevator Cars
• Playground Equipment
• Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus.  Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims.  While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Cecil County, 410-620-3322

Content Restoration

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Cecil County, our cleaning and restoration professionals can handle the heavy work, but we also work hard to restore damaged contents that have been affected by water or fire damage.  We can clean, disinfect and restore your belongings, including even your personal documents and photos.

Often, we are called to clean and restore damaged items after a large water or fire event has taken place. During this process, we store all contents at a secure location and complete the cleaning process within a matter of days or even weeks, depending on the extent of the damage.

SERVPRO of Cecil County is happy to help in any way possible when it comes to a water, fire or mold damage event and getting your life back on track. Whether you experience a large water leak or minor smoke damage that has affected your home or the items inside it, our restoration professionals are here when you need us!

Christmas Tree Fire Safety

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

It’s almost time to take down your live Christmas tree!  SERVPRO of Cecil County finds it just as hard to part with these festive trees, but we want to remind you that they can be a fire hazard if they are left up too long after the holiday season is over.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 1/3 of home fires in the United States that are caused by Christmas trees happen in the month of January, so it’s important to remove your tree before it dries out.  The drier your tree becomes, the more you will have a risk of a fire in your home.

Please dispose of your tree promptly after the holidays.  The NFPA recommends using your community’s recycling program, rather than simply placing them outside.

To limit the risk of a fire even further, do not unplug the light cords from an electrical outlet by pulling the cord.  This can damage the cord and increase the risk of an electrical fire.  When packing up lights, inspect them for any damages.  Wrap each set of lights separately and store them in a dry place where they will not be damaged by water.

At SERVPRO of Cecil County, we understand how unexpectedly a fire can occur, and we are always here to help. We hope everyone stays safe during this holiday season.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

11/6/2019 (Permalink)

With winter approaching, it is critical to protect your home or business from the frigid temperatures.  Frozen pipes can be a large issue during the upcoming months.  When pipes break, water damage follows.  SERVPRO of Cecil County restores many homes and businesses from water damage caused by frozen pipes.  However, there are ways you can prevent this common winter disaster by properly maintaining your pipes.

• Insulate any exposed pipes.
• Close indoor valves that supply water outdoors. Open the outdoor valves to drain any excess water.
• Disconnect any outside hoses from your hose bib.
• In dangerously low temperatures, allow cold water to drip from the faucets. This will allow water to continuously flow through the pipes and prevent them from freezing.
• To thaw frozen pipes, use a heating pad or towels soaked in hot water.

Water damage caused by frozen pipes is a common issue in the winter months.  If you have any issues with frozen pipes, our water restoration professionals will be there to help.  We offer 24/7 emergency services for our local customers when they experience a fire, water or mold damage event. Contact us at 410-620-3322 to learn more.

Always Prepared for Water Damage

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

The water restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Cecil County had to remove all the flooring in this kitchen after a local homeowner suffered significant water damage.  The owners had returned to their home in Port Deposit to find that their basement had been flooded from a leak in their upstairs bathroom.  After the ceiling had caved in, most of the damage was left in the basement.  However, the water had affected all three floors of the home and much of the flooring had to be removed and restored.

SERVPRO of Cecil County visited the property immediately to begin the water mitigation process.  Our team was happy to help restore the home back to preloss conditions.  Once the water was extracted from the affected areas, we laid down our drying equipment in order to ensure the space was fully dry.

The customer was very satisfied with our services and crew and stated that we made her feel at ease.  Our team strives for this with every disaster we encounter.  SERVPRO of Cecil County knows how devastating a leak or flood can be for you and your home.  We hope to make every situation better for our customers by giving them this same impression after we have left the water damage in your home “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO and Disaster Preparation

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Cecil County is always prepared for unexpected disasters from fire, water and mold.  Our restoration professionals help restore properties daily from emergencies such as pipe breaks and smoke damage, and the situation can often be overwhelming.  We are reminding local homeowners and businesses to plan and help protect their properties in order to prevent such a disaster.

This week is Fire Prevention Week.  Now is the perfect time to prepare and create or update your evacuation plan in case of any type of emergency. Click here to learn important fire prevention guidelines and safety measures from the American Red Cross.

Building an emergency kit is a helpful way to be prepared for a disaster. You should also know what to do in case of power outages in your area.

In order to protect your property even further, SERVPRO of Cecil County also offers an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) to businesses for free. This is a digital file with information such as water shutoffs, fire suppression systems and key personnel that businesses can utilize in the event of an emergency to help minimize downtime and prevent further damage. Click here to learn more about the ERP.

It is critical to be prepared if disaster does strike.  Should you experience fire, water or mold damage, SERVPRO of Cecil County is ready to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fifty Years of SERVPRO!

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has just celebrated 50 years of service in the restoration and cleaning industry!  This is no small task, and we were happy to be a part of the celebration during the 50^th Annual SERVPRO Convention in Sacramento, California.  The annual Convention included educational workshops, events and numerous awards given to franchises and owners.  We were honored to take part in this event and to have the opportunity to celebrate SERVPRO’s 50 years of successful service.  We are proud to be a part of the #1 restoration and cleaning company!

SERVPRO of Cecil County has been proudly serving communities in our own local area.  Our cleaning and restoration professionals are dedicated to making any size disaster “Like it never even happened.”  If you experience a fire, water or mold disaster, SERVPRO of Cecil County will be there to help at a moment’s notice.  Call us today at 410-620-3322.

We Know the Restoration Industry!

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Cecil County, our restoration specialists are highly trained in property restoration services in areas including fire, water and mold damage.  Our crews are IICRC certified, meaning we are equipped with the proper training, expertise and experience to efficiently recover your home or business from an unexpected disaster. 

Employees of SERVPRO can choose to complete Employee Certification Training to become more knowledgeable and skilled experts in areas such as fire and water restoration.  We also offer courses for insurance agents and adjusters, real estate professionals and employees in order to inform them about the restoration process and new areas of the industry.  We take pride in educating members of our community and in growing professionally both individually and as a whole unit to serve our local area.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is a proud supporter of our first responders throughout the country who put their lives on the line every day.  To show our gratitude, we held the first ever SERVPRO First Responder Bowl to honor our national heroes. 

The First Responder Bowl is more than just a college football game, and SERVPRO of Cecil County was happy to be a part of it.  Our franchise got in on the action by sending part of our very own team to the big game.  Our Marketing Manager, Cliff Masscotte and our Sales Representative, Brian Arencibia were selected to attend the game and help unfurl the American flag on the field with many others who are proud to work at SERVPRO.  They were honored to be chosen to do so and to take part in this event for our first responders.

The game wasn’t quite what we expected, but it was exciting nonetheless.  Due to severe weather conditions, the unfurling of the American flag and the flyover of C-1370 military cargo planes were cancelled as well as the game itself in the first quarter.  The unanimous decision was made by emergency personnel, both teams, ESPN and Cotton Bowl Stadium Staff for the safety of the fans and players.  We were disappointed that this big event did not turn out like we had hoped.  However, the game was to honor our first responders, and we achieved that in a new and unique way.  SERVPRO of Cecil County is excited to do the same at next year’s big game.  Rain or shine, we will continue to thank our first responders both locally and nationally in any way we can.

The SERVPRO First Responder Bowl was held in Dallas, Texas on December 26th in the famous Cotton Bowl Stadium and aired live on ESPN. 

We Can Restore Your Documents Too!

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

After a fire or water loss, important documents are often damaged and in danger of being non-restorable.  As a leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Cecil County knows timely mitigation is the key to recovering damaged items before it’s too late.  Water or smoke damaged paper can rapidly deteriorate, but with proper handling, our restoration professionals can help you recover your important files utilizing a variety of methods.

Vacuum Freeze Drying

This is the most effective way to restore documents after a water loss.  Our Document Restoration Team uses sublimation, which skips the liquid stage to turn a solid right into a vapor to avoid causing more damage.

Digitizing

Keeping your important documents on a computer is a good idea to eliminate the stress and work of replacing and losing files in an emergency.

Gamma Irradiation

This method is used to clean and disinfect documents that are infected by bacteria. This is frequently used in events where sewage or flood water are involved.

Certified Destruction

Often, documents must be completely destroyed to protect a business’s liabilities, image or other information.  We guarantee that your sensitive files will be disposed of properly.

 To learn more about our Document Restoration services, contact SERVPRO of Cecil County.  We offer 24-hour emergency services in our local community.

Be Ready When Disaster Strikes!

11/16/2018 (Permalink)

No one wants to think about disaster striking their business, but you should always have a plan just in case.  The SERVPRO ®  Emergency READY Profile ® (ERP) is a free service offered to local area businesses that helps prepare them to be “Ready for whatever happens".  In the event of an emergency, the ERP can minimize the interruption to your business.  This document contains critical information about your business, including employee and emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations, insurance contacts, property overview and building access information.  By already having this information in a secure file that can be accessed at a moment’s notice, the right actions will be taken immediately to ensure the safety of your business. 

Knowing who to call in advance is the key to timely mitigation, and timely mitigation reduces the effects of fire and water damage.  By establishing an Emergency READY Profile, your business will be well prepared for any size disaster.

To create an Emergency READY Profile for your business, call SERVPRO of Cecil County at (410) 620-3322.

Where did SERVPRO get its green color?

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

The restoration crews of SERVPRO of Cecil County are always close by, helping to recover disasters in your area from fire, water and mold loss.  It’s hard to miss our green service vehicles as they drive through your local community.  But where did the green color come from?

In the early 1970s, the founders of SERVPRO® used a color chip paint sample chart to identify the most eye-catching color.  It was a highly technical process.  The founders showed the chart to as many people as they could and asked, “Which color on this chart would be impossible to miss?”  By a wide margin, the color most identified was 1970 rally green, a color used on Porsche 911 automobiles.

Now used on entire fleets of vehicles in every SERVPRO franchise across the nation from production vans to disaster recovery storm trailers, our vehicles are prepared for any size disaster. 

SERVPRO Named to Entrepreneur's Top 10 Franchise List for Ten Consecutive Year

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO retains top ranking in restoration services category in the 2018 Franchise 500 rankings.

SERVPRO, maintains its hold on the top ranking in the Restoration Services industry for the 10th consecutive year in the 2018 Franchise 500 rankings from Entrepreneur magazine. 

"This recognition affirms that SERVPRO is a dynamic organization that continues to grow and strives to always provide superior support for its franchisees, and by extension, its customers," said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc., chief executive officer. "The recognition that the company earns year after year in this prestigious list is confirmation of a commitment to excellence that starts at the top and is evident in the service that each franchisee provides to each and every customer."

According to Steen, a number of differentiators set SERVPRO apart from the competition and fuel the attractiveness of the company to both existing franchisees and would-be entrepreneurs looking for a strong business opportunity. Key among these are:

•SERVPRO's commitment to being a learning organization, which keeps training and support at the forefront of the company's culture and philosophy of success and helps franchisees plan, track, and deliver best-in-class services to consumers.

•SERVPRO's focus on continued development and support for proprietary software and systems to allow the company's operational capacity to keep pace with an aggressive growth strategy.

"Today, as a mature franchise organization with more than 1,700 locations under a single brand, recognition like this makes it clear we are reaping the rewards of having laid a solid foundation and a framework to handle quick growth. As our brand continues to grow, we will continue our winning strategy of supporting and improving upon our infrastructure and investing resources in training and support."

SERVPRO specializes in fire and water cleanup and restoration services, helping both commercial and residential customers recover from property damage emergencies "Like it never even happened." For more fire prevention tips and information about fire and water damage restoration services, please visit http://www.SERVPROcecilcounty.com