Archived General Blog Posts
Meet Our Team-Christine Osborn
9/21/2020 (Permalink)
Christine Osborn - General Manager
Christine Osborn is the General Manager for SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin, and Gilmer Counties servicing the Hiawassee, Blairsville, Young Harris, Blue Ridge, and Ellijay communities. She has been apart of the SERVPRO family for approximately 6 years.
When Christine is not assisting her SERVPRO team members, she likes to ride horses and spend time with her two little boys.
The most influential thing Christine has gained by working at SERVPRO has been a change in mindset. She believes that life has absolutely no limitations except the ones you make. Take the chance to Make a Difference with every opportunity you are presented, the world needs your smile!
What she likes most about working at SERVPRO is she has the opportunity to Make a Difference every day, whether that be with a co-worker, with a customer or helping her community in a time of need – she is always there to help.
Christine is IICRC certified in WRT, FSRT and OCT and is ready whenever help is needed.
Meet Our Team-Caleb Weaver
9/20/2020 (Permalink)
Caleb Weaver - Production Manager
Caleb Weaver has been Production Manager for SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin, and Gilmer Counties servicing the Hiawassee, Blairsville, Young Harris, Blue Ridge, and Ellijay communities.
Caleb has been with SERVPRO for approximately 11 years and has IICRC certifications in WRT, ASD, AMRT, FSRT, and he is a certified lead paint renovator in the states of Georgia and North Carolina.
The thing Caleb likes most about being a part of the SERVPRO team is helping our community and the skills he has learned in customer service to serve our customers.
When he is not at work, he enjoys spending time in the woods. But most of all, Caleb enjoys spending quality time with his adorable daughter.
Meet Our Team-Clancy Shelton
9/19/2020 (Permalink)
Clancy Shelton - Crew Chief
Clancy Shelton has been a Crew Chief for SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin, and Gilmer Counties for approximately 2 years servicing the Hiawassee, Blairsville, Young Harris, Blue Ridge, and Ellijay communities.
Clancy has the an IICRC certification in WRT.
The thing Clancy likes most about being a part of the SERVPRO team is going to different places, meeting new people, and being able to help customers through what can be an over-whelming situation.
He has learned how to focus on what needs to be done in a chaotic situation.
When Clancy is not at work, he enjoys doing anything outdoors. But most of all, he adores spending time with his adorable daughter.
Meet Our Team-Karon Davis
9/18/2020 (Permalink)
Karon Davis - Accounting Clerk
Karon Davis has been an Accounting Clerk for SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin, and Gilmer Counties for approximately 8 years servicing the Hiawassee, Blairsville, Young Harris, Blue Ridge, and Ellijay communities.
Karon has the following IICRC certifications in WRT and notary public.
The thing Karon likes most about being a part of the SERVPRO team is working with a team that truly cares about their customers and each other. Also, experiencing a team caring and treating one another like family.
While at SERVPRO, Karon has learned that your duct work needs cleaning often; as well as water and humidity can be very damaging.
When Karon is not working, she enjoys to cross stich and read. But most of all, she enjoys spending time with her wonderful family and grandkids.
Meet Our Team-Jeff Van Mill
9/16/2020 (Permalink)
Jeff Van Mill - Marketing Representative
Jeff Van Mill has been a Marketing Representative for SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin, and Gilmer Counties for 1 year servicing the Hiawassee, Blairsville, Young Harris, Blue Ridge, and Ellijay communities. Over that time period he has learned how important mold coverage is to have on your insurance policy and that close-knit teamwork is needed when handling crisis situations. He has also learned how a terrible flood, and how important it is be handled promptly to turn the situation around.
The thing Jeff likes most about being a part of the SERVPRO team is helping customers get thru a bad situation they’ve never gone through before. He also values working with a great team and customers, with no drama, and meeting new people and networking.
When Jeff is not working, he enjoys gardening and taking care of plants. He likes going to parks, waterfalls, and vineyards with his dogs, along with taking day trips to new places.
Meet Our Team-Chris Henson
9/13/2020 (Permalink)
Chris Henson-Crew Chief
Chris Henson has been a Crew Chief for SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin, and Gilmer Counties for approximately 2 years servicing the Hiawassee, Blairsville, Young Harris, Blue Ridge, and Ellijay communities.
Chris has the following IICRC certifications in WRT and CCT.
The thing Chris likes most about being a part of the SERVPRO team is being able to assist our customers in their time of need.
The most influential thing he has learned by being apart of the SERVPRO team is it’s better to work together as a family.
When Chris is not working, he takes pleasure in spending quality time with his beautiful grandchildren.
Bleach Disinfects – But it Can Also Be Dangerous
5/7/2020 (Permalink)
Chlorine-based bleach has been around for a long, long, time. It was invented in Europe in the late 18th century, and many consider it the be-all and end-all solution to their cleaning needs. And now with concerns about the coronavirus (Covid-19), it’s use has greatly increased. The good news is that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a diluted bleach solution for disinfecting your home against Covid-19. But make sure your bleach isn’t past its expiration date or it’ll be ineffective against the virus.
The CDC recommends using the following solution on an appropriate hard surface. (See ‘Why Not to Use Bleach’ below.) Be sure to let this solution set for at least one minute:
- 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
OR - 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water
For soft or hard surfaces, the CDC recommends you disinfect with any of these EPA-registered household disinfectants. They meet EPA’s criteria for use against COVID-19.
Why Not to Use Bleach
But while bleach can help disinfect your home, in reality it’s a dangerous chemical that can do you great harm if you’re not careful. Here are the Top Ten reasons why bleach isn’t always a good choice for cleaning your Northeast Georgia home:
- Chlorine lacks detergency – in other words, it contains no wetting agents that allow it to penetrate soils, so surfaces must be pre-cleaned before chlorine will effectively kill germs. This is a 2-step process that requires more time.
- Chlorine is very caustic to human tissue. It can produce irritation and burning on your skin and could cause blindness.
- Chlorine reacts with other chemicals to create toxic byproducts and gases. For instance, when bleach mixes with ammonia, it can form chlorine gas, causing cellular damage in nasal passageways and lungs. The accidental mixture of these two products has resulted in death. It’s also incompatible with products that contain hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid and acetic acid (vinegar).
- It may harm your children. After using, bleach remains on surfaces and continues to emit fumes. Recent studies show that children who been exposed to bleach in their homes are more likely to suffer from respiratory illness. In addition, various studies have linked the use of bleach in a household to a higher prevalence of asthma and allergies.
- Using bleach can hurt your pets. Your cleaning products can stay on a pet’s paws or fur. Since cats and dogs often lick themselves, they may ingest harmful chemicals. Due to their tiny size, birds can become sick upon inhaling only a small amount of the fumes. Bleach poisoning in pets can result in vomiting, convulsions, and sometimes death.
- Bleach can kill mold, BUT it depends on the surface the mold is on. Mold grows on both porous and non-porous materials. When dealing with mold on non-porous materials such as shower tiles, tubs, vinyl window trims, counter tops, etc. you can use bleach to kill the mold and disinfect. But using bleach to remove mold from porous materials like drywall and wood can actually accelerate mold growth rather than killing it!
How? When bleach is used on porous materials, the chlorine is left on the surface and only the water component of the bleach is absorbed into the material, aggravating the situation as this provides more moisture for the mold to feed on, where it may then produce allergens and irritants. If you have a mold infestation, call SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties to professionally remove it.
- Chlorine is extremely corrosive to metal surfaces and can permanently discolor countertops. It can also damage floor finishes, requiring them to be stripped and recoated, which is an expensive process.
- Chlorine discolors fibers and colored surfaces. Carpets, upholstery and clothing are just a few of the materials that may be damaged.
- Chlorine bleach’s disinfectant power is rapidly inactivated by contact with organic matter, such as blood, saliva, tissue, urine, feces, dirt, etc. Chlorine is also weakened by sunlight.
- Diluted chlorine bleach quickly loses its effectiveness, is unstable and can lose its disinfectant qualities very rapidly compared to other, more stable disinfectants.
Safe and Effective Alternatives to Bleach
- Baking soda and white vinegar – they’re non-toxic and non-corrosive. Use them to freshen fabrics, eliminate grease, and clean glass. (Not effective against COVID-19)
- Rubbing alcohol – effectively cleans plastic surfaces of electronics (A concentration of around 70% will kill COVID-19)
- Hydrogen peroxide – it’s nontoxic and can be used to disinfect household surfaces. Unlike bleach, hydrogen peroxide is safe to use around food products. (Effective against COVID-19)
- Soap and warm water – the basics! It’ll clean just about anything in your home and won’t present any health risks. (Effective against COVID-19)
Although bleach products may be a bargain, you owe it to yourself, your family or coworkers to use a product that truly cleans, thoroughly disinfects and is safe to use.
Continuing Education
9/13/2019 (Permalink)
Everyone loves the opportunity to go back to school, right? Of course we do, especially when it’s “Continuing Education” sponsored by SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties!
On November 15, we will be hosting our much requested Continuing Education Sessions in our Blue Ridge office. This year, we are offering 2 different courses that will provide 2 hours of credit for each session for a total of 4 credit hours. This year’s courses are “Restorative Drying for Water Damage”, Course # 51896 (2 insurance credit hours) with registration at 9:00 a.m. and teaching time at 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon and also “Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry”, Course # 52382 (2 insurance credit hours) with registration beginning at 12:15 pm and course time from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served during course times and lunch will be provided between courses. The courses will be held at our Blue Ridge office at 5800 Appalachian Highway (just across the highway from T J Maxx).
You can make your reservation by calling SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties at 706-898-1880 or by emailing.
Remember that you must attend 100% of the session to receive course credit. It is also extremely important that you be on time for each course as course regulations require a point that doors are locked and no one else will be admitted.
Hope to see you then!
The Next Step After Having Fire And Water Damage
7/26/2018 (Permalink)
Fire and water damage are nightmares for any home or business owner because they typically force expensive repairs. This is particularly true when the building is flooded or a pipe bursts. Such disasters can destroy entire floors of a building, and make it uninhabitable until it is cleaned out. But cleaning it out is something that only professionals should be allowed to handle, especially if there is contaminated fluid or a lot of ash residue present. Certified technicians will have the tools and expertise needed to restore the building to normal and allow people to work or live in it without fear of health issues.
How do professionals perform fire and water damage restoration?
The only way to deal with a flame’s aftermath is to clean the area up thoroughly. Even a small fire can leave behind a good deal of ash and soot, and it will become more than just an annoyance if it is allowed to spread through the building. Smoke is another concern, as it will create noxious odors that penetrate through walls and seemingly last forever. Technicians are prepared to work through the building, scrubbing down all affected surfaces, and surveying the property to find areas where the residue has settled. This includes the ventilation system as well, as ash is readily picked up by the building’s climate control system. In places where the residue has formed a thick, almost lacquer-like substance, technicians have special detergents that can eat through the muck and make it easy to wipe away. As for smoke odors, professionals typically use a device known as a thermal fogger. This device will fill the building with particles designed to neutralize smoke odors, and these particles are small enough to reach through walls, so they can go where the smoke is.
Floods, sewage backflows and plumbing disasters offer their own challenges, and take a lot of equipment that only fire and water damage restoration professionals have access to. For example, if the building is harboring several inches of water, industrial strength pumps will be needed to pull it out, and these pumps are often mounted to a truck. Once this is done, trained professionals will be able to identify what materials can be rescued and what materials are completely compromised. It is essential to get this part right because destroyed materials that are left behind can ferment mold and bacterial growth.
Technicians will then work to dry the building, a process that requires several heavy duty air mover fans and dehumidifiers. This normally takes several days to see through, and technicians will monitor drying progress with moisture meters and regular inspections. Also, if there are any areas infested with mold or other microbes, fire and water damage restoration professionals can eliminate the threat with fungicides or other cleaning solutions.
Certified fire and water damage restoration professionals are the people to call when disaster strikes. They can operate in any environment and ensure a building is as good as new, giving people the peace of mind they need when returning home or to work.
www.IICRC.org
For Immediate Service in Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties, Call SERVPRO
7/26/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster inUnion, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 –706-896-1880
Residential Services
Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Remediation
- Storm Damage Restoration
- Cleaning Services
- Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: http://www.SERVPROuniontownsfanningilmercounties.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning
- Commercial Water Damage Restoration
- Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Home
7/26/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
http://www.SERVPROuniontownsfanningilmercounties.com/crew-photos
Ready for Whatever Happens!
7/17/2018 (Permalink)
As severe weather approaches, you and your family are reminded to check our emergency supply kits, we are also reminded of the SERVPRO slogan "Ready for whatever happens". The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least one full emergency supply kit for your home and smaller portable kits for your office and vehicles.
A basic emergency supply kit should contain at least the following:
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
- Manual can opener
- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA weather radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Clothing
- Dust masks or bandanas
- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Hygiene items
- Important documents; copies of insurance policies, ID and bank account information
- Cash
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
Remember, this is only a basic kit. Your circumstances may require additional items. Check out the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website on readiness at www.ready.gov for more information. You can also contact SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties to learn more and be "Ready for whatever happens!"
The Next Step After Having Fire And Water Damage
3/22/2018 (Permalink)
Fire and water damage are nightmares for any home or business owner because they typically force expensive repairs. This is particularly true when the building is flooded or a pipe bursts. Such disasters can destroy entire floors of a building, and make it uninhabitable until it is cleaned out. But cleaning it out is something that only professionals should be allowed to handle, especially if there is contaminated fluid or a lot of ash residue present. Certified technicians will have the tools and expertise needed to restore the building to normal and allow people to work or live in it without fear of health issues.
How do professionals perform fire and water damage restoration?
The only way to deal with a flame’s aftermath is to clean the area up thoroughly. Even a small fire can leave behind a good deal of ash and soot, and it will become more than just an annoyance if it is allowed to spread through the building. Smoke is another concern, as it will create noxious odors that penetrate through walls and seemingly last forever. Technicians are prepared to work through the building, scrubbing down all affected surfaces, and surveying the property to find areas where the residue has settled. This includes the ventilation system as well, as ash is readily picked up by the building’s climate control system. In places where the residue has formed a thick, almost lacquer-like substance, technicians have special detergents that can eat through the muck and make it easy to wipe away. As for smoke odors, professionals typically use a device known as a thermal fogger. This device will fill the building with particles designed to neutralize smoke odors, and these particles are small enough to reach through walls, so they can go where the smoke is.
Floods, sewage backflows and plumbing disasters offer their own challenges, and take a lot of equipment that only fire and water damage restoration professionals have access to. For example, if the building is harboring several inches of water, industrial strength pumps will be needed to pull it out, and these pumps are often mounted to a truck. Once this is done, trained professionals will be able to identify what materials can be rescued and what materials are completely compromised. It is essential to get this part right because destroyed materials that are left behind can ferment mold and bacterial growth.
Technicians will then work to dry the building, a process that requires several heavy duty air mover fans and dehumidifiers. This normally takes several days to see through, and technicians will monitor drying progress with moisture meters and regular inspections. Also, if there are any areas infested with mold or other microbes, fire and water damage restoration professionals can eliminate the threat with fungicides or other cleaning solutions.
Certified fire and water damage restoration professionals are the people to call when disaster strikes. They can operate in any environment and ensure a building is as good as new, giving people the peace of mind they need when returning home or to work.
www.IICRC.org
Ready for Whatever Happens!
3/22/2018 (Permalink)
As severe weather approaches, you and your family are reminded to check our emergency supply kits, we are also reminded of the SERVPRO slogan "Ready for whatever happens". The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least one full emergency supply kit for your home and smaller portable kits for your office and vehicles.
A basic emergency supply kit should contain at least the following:
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
- Manual can opener
- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA weather radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Clothing
- Dust masks or bandanas
- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Hygiene items
- Important documents; copies of insurance policies, ID and bank account information
- Cash
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
Remember, this is only a basic kit. Your circumstances may require additional items. Check out the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website on readiness at www.ready.gov for more information. You can also contact SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties to learn more and be "Ready for whatever happens!"
Christine Harriott : Office Manager
8/7/2017 (Permalink)
Christine Harriott : Office Manager
Meet Christine Harriott, the Office Manger of SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties!
Christine wears many, many hats for SERVPRO. She manages all of the functions that happen in the office as well as acts as marketing's side kick. She has also suited up and helped out production to assist our customers to get their homes back to normal again.
Her background is in management, marketing and graphic design. She grew up on a farm in a small town in Iowa. She was in the Iowa Army National Guard and studied Music Education at a private university in Storm Lake, IA. She has a very wide variety of talents and interests.
Christine is the mother of a very intelligent and loving autisic son, Braxton, who is her entire world. In her free time she enjoys motivating others to set goals because her goal in life is to "Make A Difference". She says nothing is impossible as long as you tell yourself you can do it. Her and her son are also huge supporters of the Armed Services...past, present and future.
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. If we can assist you with any restoration needs, do not hesitate to contact our office.
Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Home
8/4/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
http://www.SERVPROuniontownsfanningilmercounties.com/crew-photos
For Immediate Service in Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties, Call SERVPRO
8/4/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster inUnion, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 –706-896-1880
Residential Services
Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Remediation
- Storm Damage Restoration
- Cleaning Services
- Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: http://www.SERVPROuniontownsfanningilmercounties.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning
- Commercial Water Damage Restoration
- Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
Ready for Whatever Happens!
7/28/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties is always "Ready for whatever happens!"
As severe weather approaches, you and your family are reminded to check our emergency supply kits, we are also reminded of the SERVPRO slogan "Ready for whatever happens". The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least one full emergency supply kit for your home and smaller portable kits for your office and vehicles.
A basic emergency supply kit should contain at least the following:
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
- Manual can opener
- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA weather radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Clothing
- Dust masks or bandanas
- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Hygiene items
- Important documents; copies of insurance policies, ID and bank account information
- Cash
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
Remember, this is only a basic kit. Your circumstances may require additional items. Check out the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website on readiness at www.ready.gov for more information. You can also contact SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties to learn more and be "Ready for whatever happens!"
The Next Step After Having Fire And Water Damage
7/28/2017 (Permalink)
Fire and water damage are nightmares for any home or business owner because they typically force expensive repairs. This is particularly true when the building is flooded or a pipe bursts. Such disasters can destroy entire floors of a building, and make it uninhabitable until it is cleaned out. But cleaning it out is something that only professionals should be allowed to handle, especially if there is contaminated fluid or a lot of ash residue present. Certified technicians will have the tools and expertise needed to restore the building to normal and allow people to work or live in it without fear of health issues.
How do professionals perform fire and water damage restoration?
The only way to deal with a flame’s aftermath is to clean the area up thoroughly. Even a small fire can leave behind a good deal of ash and soot, and it will become more than just an annoyance if it is allowed to spread through the building. Smoke is another concern, as it will create noxious odors that penetrate through walls and seemingly last forever. Technicians are prepared to work through the building, scrubbing down all affected surfaces, and surveying the property to find areas where the residue has settled. This includes the ventilation system as well, as ash is readily picked up by the building’s climate control system. In places where the residue has formed a thick, almost lacquer-like substance, technicians have special detergents that can eat through the muck and make it easy to wipe away. As for smoke odors, professionals typically use a device known as a thermal fogger. This device will fill the building with particles designed to neutralize smoke odors, and these particles are small enough to reach through walls, so they can go where the smoke is.
Floods, sewage backflows and plumbing disasters offer their own challenges, and take a lot of equipment that only fire and water damage restoration professionals have access to. For example, if the building is harboring several inches of water, industrial strength pumps will be needed to pull it out, and these pumps are often mounted to a truck. Once this is done, trained professionals will be able to identify what materials can be rescued and what materials are completely compromised. It is essential to get this part right because destroyed materials that are left behind can ferment mold and bacterial growth.
Technicians will then work to dry the building, a process that requires several heavy duty air mover fans and dehumidifiers. This normally takes several days to see through, and technicians will monitor drying progress with moisture meters and regular inspections. Also, if there are any areas infested with mold or other microbes, fire and water damage restoration professionals can eliminate the threat with fungicides or other cleaning solutions.
Certified fire and water damage restoration professionals are the people to call when disaster strikes. They can operate in any environment and ensure a building is as good as new, giving people the peace of mind they need when returning home or to work.
www.IICRC.org
The Next Step After Having Fire And Water Damage
3/20/2017 (Permalink)
Fire and water damage are nightmares for any home or business owner because they typically force expensive repairs. This is particularly true when the building is flooded or a pipe bursts. Such disasters can destroy entire floors of a building, and make it uninhabitable until it is cleaned out. But cleaning it out is something that only professionals should be allowed to handle, especially if there is contaminated fluid or a lot of ash residue present. Certified technicians will have the tools and expertise needed to restore the building to normal and allow people to work or live in it without fear of health issues.
How do professionals perform fire and water damage restoration?
The only way to deal with a flame’s aftermath is to clean the area up thoroughly. Even a small fire can leave behind a good deal of ash and soot, and it will become more than just an annoyance if it is allowed to spread through the building. Smoke is another concern, as it will create noxious odors that penetrate through walls and seemingly last forever. Technicians are prepared to work through the building, scrubbing down all affected surfaces, and surveying the property to find areas where the residue has settled. This includes the ventilation system as well, as ash is readily picked up by the building’s climate control system. In places where the residue has formed a thick, almost lacquer-like substance, technicians have special detergents that can eat through the muck and make it easy to wipe away. As for smoke odors, professionals typically use a device known as a thermal fogger. This device will fill the building with particles designed to neutralize smoke odors, and these particles are small enough to reach through walls, so they can go where the smoke is.
Floods, sewage backflows and plumbing disasters offer their own challenges, and take a lot of equipment that only fire and water damage restoration professionals have access to. For example, if the building is harboring several inches of water, industrial strength pumps will be needed to pull it out, and these pumps are often mounted to a truck. Once this is done, trained professionals will be able to identify what materials can be rescued and what materials are completely compromised. It is essential to get this part right because destroyed materials that are left behind can ferment mold and bacterial growth.
Technicians will then work to dry the building, a process that requires several heavy duty air mover fans and dehumidifiers. This normally takes several days to see through, and technicians will monitor drying progress with moisture meters and regular inspections. Also, if there are any areas infested with mold or other microbes, fire and water damage restoration professionals can eliminate the threat with fungicides or other cleaning solutions.
Certified fire and water damage restoration professionals are the people to call when disaster strikes. They can operate in any environment and ensure a building is as good as new, giving people the peace of mind they need when returning home or to work.
www.IICRC.org
Ready for Whatever Happens!
3/20/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties is always "Ready for whatever happens!"
As severe weather approaches, you and your family are reminded to check our emergency supply kits, we are also reminded of the SERVPRO slogan "Ready for whatever happens". The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least one full emergency supply kit for your home and smaller portable kits for your office and vehicles.
A basic emergency supply kit should contain at least the following:
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
- Manual can opener
- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA weather radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Clothing
- Dust masks or bandanas
- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Hygiene items
- Important documents; copies of insurance policies, ID and bank account information
- Cash
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
Remember, this is only a basic kit. Your circumstances may require additional items. Check out the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website on readiness at www.ready.gov for more information. You can also contact SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties to learn more and be "Ready for whatever happens!"
For Immediate Service in Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties, Call SERVPRO
7/11/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster inUnion, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
- 24-Hour Emergency Service
- Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
- Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
- A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
- Locally Owned and Operated
- Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment
Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 –706-896-1880
Residential Services
Whether your home needs emergency flood damage or your upholstery cleaned, you can depend on us. Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:
- Water Damage Restoration
- Fire Damage Restoration
- Mold Remediation
- Storm Damage Restoration
- Cleaning Services
- Building/Reconstruction Services
Commercial Services
There's never a convenient time for fire or Water damage to strike your commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services: http://www.SERVPROuniontownsfanningilmercounties.com/commercial-restoration-cleaning
- Commercial Water Damage Restoration
- Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
Our Highly Trained Restoration Specialists can restore your Home
7/11/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties is an IICRC firm. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.
IICRC Certified Firms must
• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.
The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry
The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.
Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.
About SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
http://www.SERVPROuniontownsfanningilmercounties.com/crew-photos
Snowball Gala
6/13/2016 (Permalink)
Keith, Sharla and Carnie at the Snowball Gala.
1st Annual Fundraising Snow Ball Gala hosted by the Mountain Marty. This event was held on November 15th at Brasstown Valley Resort and was a huge success.
The Next Step After Having Fire And Water Damage
4/21/2016 (Permalink)
Fire and water damage are nightmares for any home or business owner because they typically force expensive repairs. This is particularly true when the building is flooded or a pipe bursts. Such disasters can destroy entire floors of a building, and make it uninhabitable until it is cleaned out. But cleaning it out is something that only professionals should be allowed to handle, especially if there is contaminated fluid or a lot of ash residue present. Certified technicians will have the tools and expertise needed to restore the building to normal and allow people to work or live in it without fear of health issues.
How do professionals perform fire and water damage restoration?
The only way to deal with a flame’s aftermath is to clean the area up thoroughly. Even a small fire can leave behind a good deal of ash and soot, and it will become more than just an annoyance if it is allowed to spread through the building. Smoke is another concern, as it will create noxious odors that penetrate through walls and seemingly last forever. Technicians are prepared to work through the building, scrubbing down all affected surfaces, and surveying the property to find areas where the residue has settled. This includes the ventilation system as well, as ash is readily picked up by the building’s climate control system. In places where the residue has formed a thick, almost lacquer-like substance, technicians have special detergents that can eat through the muck and make it easy to wipe away. As for smoke odors, professionals typically use a device known as a thermal fogger. This device will fill the building with particles designed to neutralize smoke odors, and these particles are small enough to reach through walls, so they can go where the smoke is.
Floods, sewage backflows and plumbing disasters offer their own challenges, and take a lot of equipment that only fire and water damage restoration professionals have access to. For example, if the building is harboring several inches of water, industrial strength pumps will be needed to pull it out, and these pumps are often mounted to a truck. Once this is done, trained professionals will be able to identify what materials can be rescued and what materials are completely compromised. It is essential to get this part right because destroyed materials that are left behind can ferment mold and bacterial growth.
Technicians will then work to dry the building, a process that requires several heavy duty air mover fans and dehumidifiers. This normally takes several days to see through, and technicians will monitor drying progress with moisture meters and regular inspections. Also, if there are any areas infested with mold or other microbes, fire and water damage restoration professionals can eliminate the threat with fungicides or other cleaning solutions.
Certified fire and water damage restoration professionals are the people to call when disaster strikes. They can operate in any environment and ensure a building is as good as new, giving people the peace of mind they need when returning home or to work.
www.iicrc.org
Ready for Whatever Happens!
4/5/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties is always "Ready for whatever happens!"
As severe weather approaches, you and your family are reminded to check our emergency supply kits, we are also reminded of the SERVPRO slogan "Ready for whatever happens". The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least one full emergency supply kit for your home and smaller portable kits for your office and vehicles.
A basic emergency supply kit should contain at least the following:
- Water (one gallon per person per day)
- Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
- Manual can opener
- Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA weather radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Clothing
- Dust masks or bandanas
- Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Hygiene items
- Important documents; copies of insurance policies, ID and bank account information
- Cash
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
Remember, this is only a basic kit. Your circumstances may require additional items. Check out the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website on readiness at www.ready.gov for more information. You can also contact SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties to learn more and be "Ready for whatever happens!"
SERVPRO Ranks #7 on 2015 Franchise 500 List
4/16/2015 (Permalink)
SERVPRO maintains its hold on the No. 7 spot overall on the Entrepreneur magazine's 2015 Franchise 500 list. This recognition marks the sixth consecutive year Entrepreneur has included the company in its Top 10 list and the 12th consecutive year SERVPRO has earned the top spot on the magazine's list in its own industry-Restoration Services.
'It's very satisfying to represent the ongoing brand leadership of SERVPRO for disaster cleanup and restoration services in the Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties areas," said Keith Wall, owner of SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties. "As a SERVPRO franchise, we have the tools and knowledge--and the responsibility--to provide the best possible service to every customer."
2014 Georgia SERVPRO Franchise of the Year
2/25/2015 (Permalink)
We are excited, humbled and blessed to announce the we were named the 2014 Georgia SERVPRO Franchise of the Year at the State meeting on February 20th. We are grateful to our customers for their trust in us, to our employees for the hard work they perform all the time, and to those who refer business to us. We will always work to make our customers feel comfortable and confident as we bring their homes and businesses back to pre-loss conditions. "Like it never even happened."
Employee of the Month
10/7/2014 (Permalink)
Employee of the Month
Congratulations to Russ Clouchete for being our September Employee of the Month. Russ was chosen for his hard work and attention to detail. Russ is also responsible for all the mechanic work at our company and does a great job of staying on top of any issues. Russ was awarded a $150 gift certificate at the place of his choice. WAY TO GO RUSS!
Production Crew
5/30/2014 (Permalink)
From Left to Right: Owner-Keith Wall, Production Manager-Matthew Parton, Brett, John, Russ, David, Kaleb, Dalton, Roy and Jason.
Our Production Crew and their new uniforms. A huge thank you to all of our guys for their hard work and continually putting their best foot forward to do their best. So proud of them! Thank you for all you do!!
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