Sewage Leaks Will Always Stink | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is always ready to respond to your call when biohazard incidents strike.

One thing that none of us ever want to deal with is finding a sewage leak in our home or business. It might not be the most extensive damage your space will ever see, but it will be a stinky, messy situation.

Sewage leaks are actually pretty common, and they can happen anywhere. Knowing how to handle them quickly is the best way to prevent a major disaster and keep yourself and your space safe (and a little less smelly).

Be Alert for Spring Storms | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls help you get from April showers to May flowers.

Even though our winters can often feel like they last forever, spring does eventually arrive. As the temperatures start to improve and the snow starts to melt, storms become more frequent—and more dangerous.

The further into spring we get, the stronger storms can become. Flooding is a common issue, too, especially as more and more snow melts away and heavy rains start to fall. Thunderstorms and high winds can’t be ruled out either.

With such potential for volatile weather, it is crucial that we are prepared for anything. One of the most important parts of being prepared is receiving weather alerts as fast as possible.

Preventing Mold in the Kitchen | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to Help® when you have a mold emergency on your property.

The kitchen is the heart of a home. If you have ever hosted a party and spent hours cleaning your living room, you know that it is inevitable that almost everyone in attendance will end up in the kitchen. 

The kitchen is also one of the prime places that mold develops. Moisture from appliances and cooking makes it easy for mold to form and spread. 

With some simple prevention steps, you can stop mold before it becomes a very unwelcome party guest in your kitchen. 

Find It

In order to prevent potential mold growth, you have to first locate the places it is most likely to form and spread. It only takes 24–48 hours for a mold colony to start making your kitchen its home, so it’s crucial to regularly check and clean these spots.  

Mold needs moisture, so anywhere that can be wet is the first place you should check. This includes under the sink, but don’t forget about appliances that use water. Weekly, check around your kitchen sink for potential water leaks. Run your hand along the pipes and other water lines to feel for drips. 

Along with moisture, mold needs an organic material to grow, which means if it has started growing, the most likely place will be the wooden bottom or back of your cabinet. Keep an eye out for spots as a key indicator that there is a bigger issue. 

Every three to six months, pull your refrigerator and dishwasher out to look for excess moisture or mold growth underneath them or behind them. Keep a close eye around your stove, too. Always use a hood vent when you cook in order to pull moisture out of your kitchen. 

Prevent It

There are a few other ways to keep your kitchen protected along with putting the top places that mold can form on your regular cleaning list. 

Keeping moisture under control will always be the best way to stop mold before it starts. If there is a window in your kitchen, open it when you cook—especially on days you are using multiple cooking devices. 

Avoid clutter in the kitchen, and keep things clean. Cluttered counters can not only prevent seeing mold formation, they can also give moisture sneaky places to hide out. Put unused appliances away (make sure they are completely dry), and don’t forget to wipe down the backsplash daily. 

Clean the trash can, too, and try to avoid throwing steamy foods out. Don’t put dishes away wet. It doesn’t take much moisture on a wooden cabinet to result in mold growth. 

With regular maintenance and cleaning, you can prevent mold in your kitchen. Remember to allow for plenty of air flow when you cook, and if you do find spots, get remediation started with a single phone call to our office. We will get things taken care of so your kitchen can be the heart of your home again. 

Are you concerned about mold growth in your kitchen? Contact us to get things assessed and remediated fast. 

When You Have to Deal With a Disaster | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

2/16/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here for your business every step of the way, from ERPs to disaster recovery.

Damage from a disaster can feel pretty overwhelming. Your home, your office and your entire community could be affected, leaving your head spinning as you try and figure out how to take the next step.

When a disaster does strike, getting our homes put back together will always take top priority, but when you are a small business owner, getting back to work can be just as important. The good news is that with some preparation and a little help from our team at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, your life will be back on track before you know it.

One Call Can Handle Multiple Kinds of Damage | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!

Is there a particular cliché that you just can’t stand? The saying “when it rains, it pours” is one that is said entirely too often—and one that is often entirely too true. The idea of one thing going wrong leading to another thing going wrong holds especially true when it comes to dealing with damage from a disaster.

When Mother Nature deals a particularly nasty blow to the area or one of your appliances decides to spring a leak, one kind of damage will almost always create another.

That is why having a crew like ours at SERVPRO® right around the corner is so crucial. With a single phone call, we will have you on the road to recovery no matter what has happened.

Uncommon Places for Mold Growth | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

Don't let mold invade your home! Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for fast remediation!

We often talk about the places the mold can commonly be found in your home. It is essential to find and correct mold growth before damage sets in, and checking the hotspots around your living space is a great way to stay ahead of the spread.

In order to truly protect your home from mold growth, though, you also need to get to know the uncommon places it can thrive as well. The more you know about where mold likes to hang out, the safer you can keep your house.

Your Appliances

You might already have your appliances that use water on your list of regular places to check for mold, but you need to make sure you are checking all the right areas. Leaks can be common underneath large appliances, but because water touches many more surfaces, there are several spots you need to keep an eye on in order to prevent potential spread.

In your washing machine, check around the seals on the door. Mold commonly grows there on front-loading washers, but regardless of what kind you have, keep it clean.

Leave the door open between uses so that things can dry out completely.

The same spot in your dishwasher is prone to mold growth, so keep an eye on the seal around the door. Don’t put away wet dishes, either—this can cause mold to grow on their surface or in your cabinets.

Your HVAC unit is another spot you may not be checking often enough. Maintain regular temperatures in your home in order to prevent excess humidity. Check around your vents to make sure things are staying clean and dry. Dust is a great meal for mold, so the cleaner things are, the less growth you will have.

Storage

Another uncommon area of our home where mold can thrive is in storage. It is easy to pack things away and forget about them. Even if you do check your attic or basement for extra moisture regularly, you need to also check cardboard boxes, papers filed away and stored toys.

Paper is a great catalyst for mold growth due to the natural materials it is made out of. If you have filing cabinets in your basement, use a dehumidifier to keep things dry. Avoid putting paper in cardboard or other paper-based storage containers as another way to prevent moisture access to the contents inside.

Keep toys that are stored away clean and dry as well. If you have young children, assume toys that should never be wet could be wet. It only takes one of your kiddos having a quick taste of his favorite plaything to leave behind bacteria and enough moisture to start the formation of mold.

Keeping mold at bay can feel like a challenging task when it can live in so many different places, but keeping a close eye on things regularly and maintaining steady temperatures in your home can go a long way in preventing growth. Getting to know the uncommon places can help you stop mold before it starts and keep your home safe from damage.

Have you found mold in your home? Contact us for fast remediation!

Keep Your House Warm and Fire-Safe | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

The best time of the year is when we can spend time playing in the snow and then cuddled up under a blanket with a warm fire at the end of the day. The cozy season is one of the best seasons.

It may be one of the best seasons, but it is also the time of year that house fires rise dramatically. Fireplaces, space heaters and other heating items put our home at risk when they are not used safely.

Everyday Ways to Prevent Mold | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Don't let mold take over your home. Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at the first sign of mold!

Mold and moisture are best buddies, but as much as we all love seeing best friends spending time together, these are two we need to do everything we can to keep apart.

While you can’t rid your home of all moisture, you can do something every day that will help keep your moisture levels in check and prevent mold growth.

Before you start dreading the thought of adding something new to your daily to-do list, fear not! These are easy, and there is a good chance you already do some of them.

Keeping your home free of mold problems can be pretty simple.

Start Outside

In order to protect the inside of your home, start outside. Take a look at the seals around your windows and doors in order to ensure water isn’t dripping in between your siding layers. Clean your gutters regularly as well so that water can’t sit anywhere on the outside of your home.

Not only should you keep your gutters cleared out, but you want to make sure your entire gutter system is in good shape. This is so important for ensuring water runs away from your home.

Your downspouts should stay clear, and they should be long enough to keep water moving quickly out of your yard. That means you should clear the snow away from them after a storm!

Your yard can also play an important role in keeping excess moisture out of your home. Make sure you have plenty of organic materials that create sloping away from your foundation. Keep your yard in good shape throughout the year to control moisture from the outside in.

Keep the Inside Dry

Taking care of the outside of your home is a great way to prevent excess moisture inside, but there are also things you can do every day inside. Most things are pretty simple, like hanging wet towels instead of leaving them on the floor and drying up spills right away (if you have kids, you know why this is a daily activity).

There is some other home maintenance you can do in order to keep mold at bay inside. Check for leaks regularly under your sinks, around your toilets and near your tubs.

These are hot spots for mold, so looking at them at least once a week will help you stay ahead of any growth and prevent potential damage.

Keeping your floors clean is another way to keep things safe from mold. When you mop, make sure you aren’t leaving behind puddles. If you have carpets or rugs in your home, it is crucial to make sure they stay completely dry after a spill or cleaning.

With a little bit of work each day, you can protect your home from potential foundation damage that extensive mold growth can cause. Get the whole family involved, and make sure everyone in your home understands the importance of keeping things dry.

Have you found mold in your home? Contact us to get remediation handled fast!

Where Moisture Hides | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.

Without instant access to water, things would be much more difficult in our day-to-day lives. Just think about how often you wash a load of laundry or run the dishwasher. Even something as simple as cleaning muddy feet at the end of the day is made much easier with water that is readily available.

Water makes things easier, but when it ends up hiding out in the wrong places, it can create a complete mess. We may not be able to do a whole lot about Mother Nature when she brings us heavy rains or floods, but we can take action to protect our home from hidden leaks in order to avoid costly damage. When you know where to look, you can keep things safe.

The Causes of Mold | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here for your when you need mold removed!

Mold feels like one of those words that you should only whisper in secret. It can quickly cause a little bit of panic in any homeowner’s heart when the topic of potential mold growth comes up in conversations.

Mold actually grows everywhere, though, and is always present in the air outside, too. But it can quickly become a problem when it begins to hang out and spread, and it can even leave your home dealing with structural issues.

Understanding what causes mold is the best way to take preventive steps against it. Most everyone knows that mold and moisture are best buds, but get to know some of the other factors that could lead to a mold problem so you can stop the spread.

The Main Causes

Mold thrives in dark and damp atmospheres, but it can also grow just about anywhere. In your home, attics, bathrooms, kitchens and basements are the most vulnerable to rapid and damaging mold growth.

Moisture and organic materials are required for mold to grow and spread, but there are a few other things you should look for when you are investigating for potential mold development.

1. Poor ventilation. Rooms with high levels of humidity are at risk for mold growth when the moisture in the air has nowhere to Bathrooms and kitchen commonly have this problem, but any room in your home that lacks air flow can be at risk. Uneven temperatures in your home can also lead to an increase in humidity.

2. Leaks. This one might feel a little more obvious, but did you know that a leak the size of a pinhole can waste between two and 20 gallons of water a day? Leaks under appliances or sinks can often go unnoticed, creating a moist environment perfect for mold development.

3. Condensation. Water droplets that form on pipes, appliances or air vents create a good atmosphere for mold growth. Like with small leaks in water lines running under appliances, condensation often goes unnoticed until it becomes a much bigger problem.

Preventive Steps

The good news is that even with these often overlooked mold-prone areas, there are steps you can take to keep your home protected and stop growth before damage is done. A little regular maintenance can go a long way in avoiding costly repairs.

Pull your appliances with water lines out and away from the wall every few months. Look for mold on walls near the appliance and under it, and check to make sure there are no drips or soft spots in the floor.

Update the ventilation in your bathrooms and kitchens to ensure moist air has somewhere to go. Even just opening a window after a shower or while you cook can help prevent excess moisture. Maintaining a steady temperature in your home is another helpful way to stop mold before it can start.

Mold really isn’t a dirty word, and it really isn’t something we should fear either. The more you understand about how it forms and what to do about it, the safer your home will stay.

Have you spotted mold in your home? Contact us for fast remediation.

Local Companies Make the Difference | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

12/15/2023 (Permalink)

No job is too big or too small for our team of industry leading experts at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls!

It’s safe to say that most of us don’t spend time thinking about a disaster striking. Imagining one happening far from home is hard enough, but thinking about our house or community experiencing damage is something none of us want to do.

There are a lot of ways to prepare your home for potential disasters, but sometimes even the most prepared home might still end up with damage. A disaster that strikes inside your house from a manmade issue can create even more chaos and catch you completely off guard.

No matter how or when it happens, getting your life put back together quickly after a disaster is important. That is why local companies will always make the difference.

What to Do About Water in Your Business | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call to get that resolved!

A new day has begun, and it is time to get work started. As you walk through the door and start flipping on the lights, a musty odor wafts into your nose. As you feel your panic begin to rise, you start to wonder if there is a leak leaving your building wet somewhere.

This scenario can be pretty scary, but if you ever walk into your business and step directly into a puddle, it can be a true nightmare.

Whether water in your business comes from a plumbing failure or a natural disaster, the faster you can respond, the less damage your building will have. In order to take fast action, you will need to know exactly what steps to take.

Damage to Your Home | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls right away.

Our homes can be damaged in a lot of different ways—strong storms, a fire, aging to the structure or even just the neighborhood ball game that gets out of control and sends a ball flying through your window.

Even though there may be a lot of ways your home can be damaged, you can’t spend all of your time thinking about them. Instead, you can get your home prepared so that even an unexpected storm blowing through only leaves you with minimal damage.

In order to prepare, you need to understand your risks. Getting to know the specific threats to your home can also help you better understand how easy restoration after a disaster can be. With SERVPRO of Sioux Falls right around the corner, your restoration won’t just be easy, it will also be fast and smooth.

The Benefit of an Emergency Ready Plan | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for disaster? SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here for you when disaster strikes!

Were you aware of the recent rise in natural disasters? When you look at statistics, you see that not only has there been more occurrences of natural disasters in the last five years, but they are getting stronger and leaving behind more damage than ever.

Even if your business is spared from ever experiencing damaging natural disasters, manmade disasters are still a risk that everyone faces. Regardless of how a disaster happens, they can all leave your business facing losses.

No one enjoys considering ways your business may be damaged, but it is crucial to stay ahead of your risks. When you are prepared, you can mitigate losses and keep work going.

Have the Safest Holiday Season | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls on the case!

It’s the most wonderful time of year! No matter how you feel about the holidays and when you celebrate, there is no denying that there are some pretty good foods that come along with the season. If you are the favorite family cook, a little fire safety can go a long way in keeping your home safe.

The number of house fires always go up during the holiday season, and an alarming number of them start in the kitchen. That doesn’t mean skipping the family recipes and ordering takeout, though; instead, with some proactive steps in place you can cook to your heart’s content knowing that all is well.

Navigating Winter and the Storms of the Season | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has your back with these helpful tips.

Winter can be a real bear in Sioux Falls. Although we do sometimes see our share of mild weather, we also see blizzards, ice storms and below freezing temperatures. Really, winter in South Dakota comes with a lot of different moods.

Regardless of how the season treats us, when we are prepared, we can weather any storm well. Taking the time to get our homes and our families ready ahead of a storm can keep us safe and help us avoid total disasters.

Control the Mold by Controlling the Moisture | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Mold invading your space? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get your home back in shape.

Can you think of all the sources of moisture in and around your home right now? Sinks, refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, showers, tubs, gutters, faucets…the list could get pretty long.

Water is such a dominant factor in our everyday life, and we are accustomed to being able to control sources of water at the turn of the handle. But with so many sources of water all around, our homes are also vulnerable to mold.

Mold loves moisture, and it doesn’t take much for it to start growing and spreading. The good news is that with a little regular maintenance and control, you can keep your home dry enough to ensure mold growth is kept at bay.

Start Outside

In order to keep mold from growing, you have to keep water out. Your landscaping is a great place to start ensuring that the elements remain outside. By creating slopes with natural materials, you can ensure water runs away from your home quickly. These materials also help absorb water, which can prevent puddles from forming near your home.

Keeping the gutters clean is another way to protect your home from the outside in. With our snowy weather in the winter, getting your gutters cleaned out is especially important in order to avoid ice dams from forming.

You should also consider your roof and the rest of your home’s exterior. Shingles or other roofing material should be layered properly in order to allow water to run down quickly. Flashing should be added to flat places or anywhere that is uneven in order to create enough sloping to keep water moving.

In general, as you consider the outside of your home, you want to think about where water is going and ensure it isn’t flowing toward your house. Drainage in your yard will go a long way in protecting your home from excessive moisture that will lead to mold.

Prevention on the Inside

The interior of your home should be watertight, but with so many different ways that water enters our homes, the possibility of a leak is always present. Get used to checking under sinks and around toilets and tubs regularly to check for moisture.

Mold loves to hide in these areas, and something as small as a pinhole can create a problem quickly.

Keep a steady temperature in your home, even when you are out of town for a while. Resist turning your HVAC off altogether when you are going to be gone, and instead, set it at a temperature that it won’t run often but will keep your home dry.

Always use exhaust fans in the bathroom and the kitchen, and check the seals on your windows and doors. If you have spent time doing all you can to prevent excess moisture and still notice water droplets or musty smells, consider bringing in a professional. Your home may need extra ventilation or other repairs that can help prevent mold growth long-term.

Concerned about mold and want to talk about the remediation process? Give us a call.

Preventing Mold in the Kitchen | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Don't let mold hold you back! Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls if you think mold is in your home.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, right? You spend so much time in the kitchen preparing delicious meals, grabbing a quick snack or praying the coffee brews a little faster. It seems like no matter what you do to make the rest of your home inviting, when you have guests over, they all end up crowded into the kitchen.

The kitchen may be a favorite spot to congregate, but if excess moisture is allowed to set up, the kitchen can quickly become a mold hotspot.

Take a few simple steps to protect your kitchen from mold. You can keep things clean and dry so only welcome guests take up space.

Find the Hiding Places

In order to prevent mold, you have to first find it. Mold is notorious for being excellent at playing hide and seek, and the longer it hides, the more it will grow. If you add checking some of the most likely places mold is growing to your regular cleaning responsibilities, you can win hide and seek every time.

Kitchen cabinets and under the sink are two of the most common places mold could be hiding out. Check under your sink every week and fix any drips, leaks or spills quickly. Feel the back of your cabinets for moisture that could indicate mold growth, and check for any musty odors.

Every few months, remove all the items from your kitchen cabinets and give them a thorough cleaning. This will not only help you find a problem, but it can also prevent one by removing anything that could cause excess moisture.

Consider the appliances in your kitchen when you are checking for mold as well. Leave the dishwasher door open until it completely dries after it has completed a cycle, and feel under your refrigerator regularly to watch for leaks. Any soft spots in the flooring near an appliance that uses water is another indicator of an issue that could cause mold growth.

Oh, and clean or replace your kitchen sponge regularly!

Keep It Dry and Keep It Clean

Moisture and mold are best buds, so one of the easiest ways to prevent mold growth is to keep things dry. But if you have kids, your kitchen might be one part of your home that faces constant spills and drips.

Keep a towel handy and dry up anything as soon as it hits the ground. Allow towels and rags to dry out completely, or switch them out on a daily basis to prevent moisture from those as well.

Run the exhaust fan on your stove when you are cooking to help draw moisture out of your kitchen. Maintaining a steady temperature throughout your house can also go a long way in the fight against mold. For the kitchen, that might mean adding an extra fan or cracking a window to alleviate the heat of the stove or other cooking elements.

Keep your kitchen as the hangout spot in your home, but don’t allow mold in. Your guests will all be so thankful!

Have you spotted mold in your kitchen or anywhere else in your home? Contact us for fast remediation.

Get Your Commercial Team Ready for a Weather Emergency | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

If your home or business was damaged in a storm, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get you back in action.

Preparation is always the best way to keep a business going. You never really know what each day is going to bring you, so the more you are ready to jump over any hurdle, the better you will fare.

While you prepare your team to tackle everything that comes their way in order to thrive, consider getting your employees ready for weather emergencies.

With a great safety plan in place, you can prevent panic and keep everyone safe.

Steps to Protect the Outside of Your Home From Storms | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has your back when you experience flood and water damage.

Snow, sleet, rain, wind, hail, flooding…fortunately, this is not the current forecast, but it is a short list of some of the ways your home can be damaged by weather. While we see a lot of seasonal changes and different areas have different risks, there is always something we need to be prepared for.

When you own property, your to-do list of things that need to be maintained is likely very long. Along with keeping things clean and beautiful every day, take some steps seasonally to keep your home protected from the outside when storms roll through.

While our spring and summer can be fairly mild when it comes to severe weather, we do have flooding, wildfires and thunderstorms to contend with. Winter snowmelt can mean even the slightest rain creates rivers of water. We also have strong winds that can whip through at any time of year.

In order to be the most protected from storm damage, the best place to start preparations is on the outside of your home.

Backyard Fire Safety | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get your space back in shape.

Summertime might just be the sweetest time. Sioux Falls is bursting with lush greenery and bright flowers, while the temperatures remain mild. Summer is also the best time to get out in the backyard and throw some burgers on the grill.

While there might not be anything better than flame-kissed meat straight off the grill, backyard grilling can become dangerous quickly. Improper use of grills is a leading cause of house fires in the summer. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls wants to make sure you can enjoy every moment this season has to offer without a single worry.

When Water Damages Your Home | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls right away.

Water is a powerful source. Even in our homes, where we do our best to control it, water can have a surprising power as we turn it on and off with the touch of our hands. If you have ever visited the ocean, you have seen water in its true and natural power.

Water plays a huge role in our lives, and certainly we can’t live without it, but when water seeps into places it doesn’t belong it can create a complete mess. Flooding is possible anywhere, but Sioux Falls has seen more than its share of flooding. From the Big Sioux River overflowing to the massive amounts of snowmelt we see, we know that we have to be prepared for water to leave our homes in turmoil.

You can prepare and protect your home from water damage in a number of ways, but you can’t always stop or predict a disaster. That is why having restoration professionals in your own backyard is an incredible resource.

When a Storm Brings Damage | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to restore your space in no time!

The power of storms can be pretty incredible. Even when you have had plenty of time to prepare for it, something as simple as a thunderstorm can blow through your neighborhood so fast it leaves you feeling completely overwhelmed.

We may have mostly cooler weather in Sioux Falls, but that doesn’t exempt us from severe storms, particularly tornadoes. The months of May and beyond, while later than some more southern areas, are particularly dangerous for spinning up strong storms. In 2022, May brought us a derecho that carried wind damages throughout the state.

Knowing how to prepare for this kind of severe weather can do a lot when it comes to mitigating damages, but do you know what to do when a storm rolls out and you find your home damaged in its wake?

Make sure safety is always your first priority, take a deep breath and find some sturdy shoes. With a few simple steps, you can ensure your recovery is fast and smooth.

What to Do When There’s Rain in Your Home | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls on the case!

Do you love or hate rain? Even if you are firmly in the latter camp, you can’t deny that a soft, steady rain on a hot summer day is just what the earth and the air needed.

Rain may be necessary and even welcomed when the weather is hot and dry, but when it gets heavy, it can leave your home at risk for leaks. Heavy rain can bring other threats, too, like strong winds, that create other damages. Intense rain can overwhelm streets and yards, creating dangerous flash flooding.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to not only dry out your home fast when you are dealing with flooding, but to also help you learn the best ways to keep your family safe and mitigate as much damage to your home as possible.

Keeping the Fire Pit Safe | SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

Have you felt the cool breeze in the air lately? After a particularly hot summer, it might be hard to believe, but a break in the heat and humidity is growing ever nearer as fall finally starts to approach. It’s time to get the pumpkin decorations out and play in the leaves.

As the season changes, many of us also start spending more time outdoors around the campfire. While you gather your friends and family around the fire pit, make sure you are taking action to keep everything safe.

SERVPRO® is always available if a fire does leave your yard or home damaged, but we also want to help you prevent a disaster from ever starting in the first place.

How Water Damage Fuels Mold Growth | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

No job is too big or small. Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls today to schedule your mold remediation estimate.

Water damage is a nightmare in and of itself, but the hidden difficulties that might arise long
after the initial incident can be even worse. Mold is one such sneaky intruder that can emerge when you least expect it.

Water damage is not always visible, and it can appear and lurk under your appliances, walls,
flooring and other items. The hidden nature of water damage is what makes it easy for mold to
settle and hide.

Learning how mold follows water damage is a great place to start as you work to prevent growth. Your Sioux Falls house does not have to suffer from this devastating combination, and there are
measures to prevent water damage from adding to your problems.

When Moisture Invades
Mold spores can be found all around us, searching for the proper circumstances to grow. Sadly,
water damage creates an ideal breeding environment. Moisture is one of the elements of water damage that allows mold to quickly form.

Things like a broken pipe, a leaky roof or heavy rain can send moisture seeping into your drywall,
carpet and insulation. Once it’s soaked in, excess humidity and improper ventilation allow mold to
pop up in these moist areas.

Leaks You Spot Too Late
One of the problems with water damage is that it sometimes goes unrecognized or is not properly
treated. Even a tiny amount of water that leaks into your home unnoticed can quickly worsen,
leading to mold growth when the environment is perfect.

These leaks can occur almost anywhere in your home, but they are most commonly found near your appliances, in your bathroom or in your kitchen. These concealed crevices, hidden from view, provide an ideal climate for mold to bloom. Frequent inspections and repairing water damage quickly can help keep this problem from worsening.

Putting Aside Repairs
Putting off repairs is one of the most common mistakes people make after a water emergency. When you delay restorations, you not only enable water damage to develop, but you also invite mold growth to form in the same spots.

Even if the water issue you’re dealing with is small, it can still have a big impact on your home.
To properly mitigate water damage and avoid future mold issues, it is critical to seek the
assistance of specialists armed with advanced technologies and years of experience.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to handle your water issue before it becomes a mold problem. Through an initial inspection and expert restoration, you can have peace of mind that mold won’t be invading your home anytime soon!

Don’t let a water problem turn into a mold problem—contact SERVPRO today! We'll
control the matter before it gets out of hand.

Fire Safety Doesn’t Have to Be Scary | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/10/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here for you and your family if you experience a fire in your home or business.

There are a lot of rewards that come with raising children, but the responsibility certainly isn’t without some incredibly hard work. You have the blessing of watching them grow and explore the world while teaching them about life. Some lessons, however, are harder to teach than others.

Fire safety is an incredibly important life skill that needs to be taught early and often. It is a scary concept to teach, though, no matter what age you are working with.

When you introduce how to stay safe in a fire emergency to your children in a fun and comfortable way, they can absorb your lessons and your whole family can stay safe.

Prevent Wind Damage With Preparation | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/5/2023 (Permalink)

If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Sioux Falls your first call.

When the weather is warm and the sun is bearing down, is there anything better than a cool breeze whipping through your hair? Wind is one of those things that we know is always there, whether we want it to be or not.

A cool breeze can be a sweet gift on a hot day, but when wind gets strong, it can quickly become very destructive. Most of the time strong winds are associated with severe weather, but even on a blue sky day, gusts can pick up enough to leave behind damages.

The more you get to know about what wind can do, the more steps you can take to protect and prevent damages on your property.

The Different Kinds of Wind

Most of the time when wind damage is reported, it is associated with thunderstorms. Sioux Falls may not experience a lot of thunderstorms, but it is still not a threat we want to take lightly.

Thunderstorms are particularly damaging because they come with so many different threats. Winds in a thunderstorm can reach close to 60 miles per hour, and at that speed, debris in your yard will quickly become airborne. When thunderstorms roll through our community, derecho wind storms often come with them. These are long-lasting wind storms that can create a lot of chaos.

Derecho storms can knock out power, take down trees or even lead to dust storms. Even without a strong thunderstorm or snow storm, when the wind picks up in our area, there is a strong chance of damage being left behind.

Another kind of wind we often experience in this part of South Dakota is “straight-line wind.” These are winds that are not associated with rotation that can reach nearly 100 miles per hour. Straight-line winds can be far-reaching, leaving behind damages in areas that did not experience any other parts of a storm.

Tornadoes are another storm that comes with quite a few threats, including a wide variety of winds.

Downdrafts, straight-line winds and bursts of winds called micro- and macro-bursts are all common when a tornado forms. All of these combined often leave a complete path of destruction for anything near it.

Wind Damage and Prevention

Common kinds of wind damage include knocked-over trees, damage to power lines and projectile debris. When the wind gets higher than 80 miles per hour, it can even take out anchored but non-permanent structures like outbuildings and mobile homes.

In order to protect both your home and your family, familiarize yourself with the different kinds of weather alerts that might be issued when wind is getting strong. Strap down loose objects around your home as well, securing things permanently that you can’t move indoors.

Trim the trees in your yard as often as you are able, and schedule professional maintenance of your tall trees every five to 10 years in order to prevent the possibility of downed trees during strong winds. Clear your yard from loose limbs often, as well as anything else that could become a projectile.

Identify an interior room inside your house where you can shelter away from windows when a warning is issued. Consider shutters for your windows if your home doesn’t already include them.

After the winds have eased and it is safe to do so, walk your property to look for damage. Call SERVPRO night or day if you spot any, particularly on your roof. We can respond quickly so you avoid additional damages from water or snow.

Has your home been damaged by wind? Call us and get things cleaned up fast.

When Mold Invades the Bathroom… | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

5/11/2023 (Permalink)

Do you need to protect your health and home from mold? Trust our experts at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to remove it.

Mold isn’t particular about where it establishes itself in your home, but there are a few
spots it could be drawn to. Mold can be found in your attic, basement or, more typically,
deep within your bathroom.

Mold can grow in the darkest corners of your bathroom due to a variety of factors,
including poor ventilation and a heated environment. There are numerous reasons why
mold could be growing in your Sioux Falls bathroom, but excess moisture is the primary
culprit.

The good news is: There is always a solution, no matter how or when mold grows in
your bathroom! You just need to take the necessary actions to guarantee mold is
effectively removed.

Know the warning signs. Mold and mildew can both grow in the bathroom, and
despite their similar appearances, they mean very different things for the safety of your
property.

Mildew appears in lighter colors such as gray, yellow or white, while mold appears in
black, green or orange. Mildew will feel powdery to the touch, whereas mold will feel
slimy and damp.

One of the most obvious signs of mold is the foul odor it releases as it begins to grow. If
you fear mold is taking over your bathroom, sniffing around will be the most effective
technique to locate it.

Search for the cause. As previously stated, poor ventilation, humidity and excess
moisture are all causes of bathroom mold. When all of these elements are present in
your bathroom, mold growth is unavoidable.

Mold and leaks go hand in hand, and if a bathroom leak isn’t repaired, mold will emerge
somewhere nearby. If you believe that your bathroom fixtures are leaking, you must act
quickly to prevent mold growth.

A lack of ventilation is a mold problem waiting to happen. If your bathroom lacks an
exhaust fan or a window, moisture has nowhere to go, leading to a mold problem near
any damp areas.

Call a remediation specialist. So you’ve finally identified the cause of your mold
infestation. What’s next? Your best plan of action is to call in the professionals who can
kick mold to the curb once and for all!

Trying to address mold development on your own is a temporary solution that may lead
to a bigger, more expensive problem in the long run. When you work with our
SERVPRO professionals, we use innovative technologies and certified remediation
techniques to solve the problem so you don’t have to deal with the frustrating fungi
alone.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has the solution for your bathroom mold emergency! We can
begin the remediation process as soon as you get in touch.

Places Water Might Be Lurking in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to find the source.

We use a lot of water in our days. Water does a lot of good when it is in the right place, but when it ends up in the wrong places, it can create a complete disaster. Slow leaks that hide out can be particularly detrimental and can even lead to other damages from mold growth.

You can take action, though, simply by getting to know some of the top places that leaks tend to hide in your home. When you are proactive in prevention, you can protect your home and stop issues before they become huge.

Get familiar with a few of these areas and let water only be used for good in your home:

The roof of your house. Taking care of the roof is important for a number of reasons, but when it comes to finding slow leaks, it is one of the more challenging places to locate them.

Our extended winters and heavy snowfalls in Sioux Falls make getting on the roof difficult. It’s crucial to inspect your roof at least once a year, though, and to walk your property and keep a close eye on the roofline throughout the rest of the year. You can also inspect your attic often.

A small, dark space like the attic is a prime location for mold growth when moisture is present. Replace insulation as needed, and watch for puddles or dripping places.

All the bathrooms. In a room where so much water is used every day, finding water problems can actually be a real challenge. It can be easy to overlook drops of water on the floor or ignore a dripping sound.

Look under the sink often for puddles of water, and check behind the toilet for the same. You should also feel around the base of both the toilet and the tub for excess moisture. Seal up any loose pipes and fix caulk that has worn down.

Watch for slow-moving drains, and pay attention to how moist the bathroom is staying. These are both indicators of bigger problems.

Large appliances with water features. There are a lot of appliances around your home that use water almost on a daily basis, and any appliance that uses water has the potential to leak. Just like in the bathroom, get used to checking under sinks and around appliances in your kitchen and laundry room.

Pull your refrigerator, dishwasher and washing machine out and away from the wall at least once a year. Inspect the hoses attached for signs of wear and tear, and clean underneath and behind them. If you find water drops or mold growth, there is a good chance a bigger issue is at play.

Be cognizant of problems when these items are in use as well. If something is slow to fill up or you hear a dripping sound there may be a leak from one of the water lines. Plan to replace your large appliances after their 10th birthday to stop problems before they ever start.

If you do spot an issue around your home, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls right away. We have the expertise and industry-leading equipment to stop damages fast so you can get back to everyday life.

Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!

Restoration With A Trained Team You Can Trust | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

Is your home or business in need of restoration? SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is ready to help you recover around the clock.

Decision-making is hard, and when it comes to making decisions for your home, there are a lot of things to consider. While some minor decisions are easier to make, if your home suffers damages in a disaster, deciding who is going to put everything back the way it was can be one of the most challenging decisions to make.

Imagine your home takes on water in a flood, or a fire breaks out in your kitchen. You know that it is crucial to make decisions fast when it comes to recovery, but it is also important to choose someone that will walk with you from start to finish.

When you choose to work with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, you are working with a company that is available around the clock, that has highly trained professionals and that is completely certified. We adhere to the most advanced processes in restoration and ensure that everything is completed safely and quickly.

We Adhere to Industry Trainings

At SERVPRO, our team follows a specific set of standards set for the restoration industry called the IICRC standards. This means that our professional staff follows the best guidelines and training in the industry for cleaning and restoration projects. While we adhere to these standards in everything we do, this particularly includes:

• Water damage restoration

• Fire and smoke damage restoration

• Mold remediation

• Carpet and upholstery cleaning

We also offer our employees a specific training program called Employee Certification Training to ensure they are fully equipped to be successful. We run this training at their pace, which means they can fully absorb all the knowledge presented to them in the time that works best.

We Never Stop Learning

Training is so important to who we are that we start as soon as someone is hired. Once the onboarding process is complete, our staff are offered continuing education courses and e-learning opportunities. This way they can keep their skills completely up to date all the time.

Along with training, we make it one of our goals to have industry-leading equipment in order to get every home back in order after any size disaster.

By staying ahead of the latest information, we can change how we do things whenever it is needed. We utilize a lot of different technology in our business, so it is important we shift as it shifts in order to have the latest materials, knowledge and equipment so that you can fully recover anytime you experience a disaster.

Why This Matters for You

There is a lot of benefit to having a fully trained and certified crew right around the corner from your home. We can start your restoration at any time, and we will be with you throughout the entire process. Our team will stick around until you are completely satisfied with the finished product.

Choosing a company that is not certified that or lacks the training to fully complete a project could leave you needing more work and repairs that are not up to par. When you choose to work with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, you are in the hands of a team whose only goal is to get your life back on track.

When you need help recovering from a disaster, SERVPRO is here for you. Get in touch 24/7 to start your disaster recovery.

Commercial Buildings and Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

3/2/2023 (Permalink)

Experienced water damage in your commercial building? SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can help you get dried out quickly.

If you have damage in your commercial building, there is a good chance that water is the cause. Even a leaky toilet that seems like a small problem can cause a large amount of damage faster than you would imagine.

Owning and operating a commercial building comes with a long list of responsibilities, and trying to track down every leak or drip can feel like a huge challenge. Learn the top places leaks start so you can stay proactive at prevention.

All the Ways Hidden Mold Reveals Itself | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

If you find hidden mold SERVPRO of Sioux Falls should be your first call!

One of the main reasons mold becomes such a severe issue for homeowners is because of its
ability to go undetected until it evolves into a headache that cannot be avoided. Those tiny
spores that form as a result of excess moisture are excellent at hiding, and if you don’t know
what to look for, they can grow into a terrible home infestation.
In many cases, there are no visible signs of growth, but there are a few other subtle indicators to
look for. It’s possible that mold is intruding on your home and making small, unusual changes
around the house.
So, if you suspect mold is growing in your home but see no visible evidence, you’re not crazy!
You could be dealing with invisible mold that requires a closer inspection to lead you to the
source.
What’s That Smell?
Whether mold is hidden or visible, it will always produce a musty, unavoidable smell. The nasty
odor is commonly described as earthy, rotten and stale.
Sniff around your home with your nose; wherever the smell is strongest, that’s where your mold
problem may be hiding. If you smell something but can’t figure out where it’s coming from, look
in places that are prone to leaks, such as your bathroom.
Cosmetic Changes to the Home
If your wall, ceilings or floors aren’t looking as clean as they usually do, it could be mold.
Changes such as warped walls, peeling paint and discoloration could be mistaken for a home in
need of a touchup.
Dark stains or spots can appear in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colors. As you search around,
be on the lookout for spots in hues of black, brown, green and white.
Previous Moisture Problems
If you’ve ever had a toilet overflow or a pipe leak that let water into your home, you may have
had it repaired and forgotten about it. Locations where flooding or leakage occurred should be
one of the first places you look if you detect mold growing in your home.
Unfortunately, mold can appear quickly, and even if there is no visible leak, you may still have a
problem hidden deep where it occurred.
Mold growth can be devastating for homeowners, but our team can kick mold to the curb for
good! Reach out to SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for rapid mold remediation.

Safe Home Heating All Winter| SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/24/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls if you experience any smoke, soot or fire damage.

The winter chill set in a long time ago, and you have probably been heating your home for some time now. If you are not taking good care of your heating system, though, you could be creating a fire risk in your home.

Life in Sioux Falls means that you have to enjoy cold weather at least a little bit, but you deserve to be able to warm up as much as you want. Take care of your units now so you can rest easy.

Stop Mold From Setting Up Shop in Your Basement | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/17/2023 (Permalink)

When you find hidden mold call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

If you live in a house with a basement, it may not be your favorite location to visit. The stale air
and dim lighting are reasons enough to get in and out as quickly as possible. While visiting the
basement may be unsettling, it is vital to do so on a regular basis to check for threats like mold
growth.
Basement mold growth is a common issue that can lead to substantial damage. Darkness,
humidity and excess moisture make your basement an ideal breeding ground for mold. And
since you might not frequent your basement, mold might grow there without your knowledge.
Regular maintenance and inspections are the most effective ways to keep mold at bay in your
basement. The more you maintain it, the fewer scary trips you’ll have to make down to your
basement!
Eliminate Seepage
You should start by ensuring there are no areas of your basement water that might be able to
seep in. Inspect your foundation for cracks and gaps along the walls and seal them up. Cracks
aren’t always a cause for concern, but it’s important to keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t
expand.
Cracks aren’t the only issue that can create moisture problems. Your pipes and appliances can
both flood your basement before you know it. Inspect your pipes and the appliances you keep in
your basement after each usage to ensure there is no leakage.
Even if there is no water leak, the moisture levels in your basement may be high, allowing mold
to flourish. Using a humidifier in your basement can lower humidity and control moisture. The
humidity levels you need to set will vary depending on the season and climate, but 30 to 50% is
the ideal range.
Protect the Inside From Outside
Creating safeguards around the exterior of your property is another great technique to secure
your basement. Small tasks like cleaning your gutters, maintaining your roof and extending your
downspouts can help keep outside water from leaking in and growing mold.
The landscape that surrounds your home also has an impact on how much water seeps down
into your basement. Grading your yard is an effective way to send excess water flowing away
from your home’s foundation. Create a slope using dirt to allow water to flow away from your
home rather than pooling at the sides.
If you find mold lurking in your basement, we are the team to call! SERVPRO can perform
expert remediation and return you to a safe, mold-free property.

Protect Your Home From Water Damage This Year | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/10/2023 (Permalink)

When a new year rolls in, it brings with it the opportunity to take on new projects that can make life a little easier to live. This year, make one of the projects you tackle protecting your home from water damage by adding simple steps into your regular routines.

Water is one of the most common damage causing natural disasters, and it only takes a tiny pinhole to leave your home in complete chaos. Protect your home for water damage this year with a resolution you can really keep.

SERVPRO Is Your Best Choice for Odor Removal | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

2/3/2023 (Permalink)

Our expertise in odor removal is why you should call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

You might already know that SERVPRO is your best choice for professional cleaning and restoration after a disaster strikes. We have professionals everywhere who are ready to handle storm, water, mold and fire damage. But did you know we can also handle pesky odor removals?

A disaster damaging your property is certainly a worst-case scenario for all of us, and when it happens, it can lead to a stressful recovery. In the midst of getting everything put back together, worrying about odors is likely far from your mind.

Unfortunately, every disaster can come with smells that might linger long-term in your home when they are not taken care of in a timely fashion. Even when your home is immaculately clean, you might have odors hiding out in places you never thought to look.

The good news is that there is a solution to every odor problem, and our professionals can kick smells to the curb quickly.

Stop Water Seepage | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

1/30/2023 (Permalink)

Got Water Seepage?

You may not notice it, but water could be seeping through your house. If your air quality is low and you notice a musty smell or you have seen peeling paint or bubbled spots on your walls, there may be a problem causing damage somewhere.

Rust on your indoor appliances may be another indicator of a water leak. While these can be fairly hard-to-spot signs, there are obvious ones to look for, too. If you come across standing water on the floor that can’t be otherwise explained, you should dig a little deeper to find unseen problems.

It doesn’t take a lot of water to do serious damage, so learning what to look for, how to prevent leaks and ways to correct them is crucial for keeping your home safe.

Can Mold Still Grow During a Frigid Winter? | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

1/25/2023 (Permalink)

Got Mold? We can help!

Mold demands three important ingredients in order to thrive and spread. Excess moisture, the
right location for growth and the ideal temperature all combine to produce the ideal setting for
mold to wreak havoc on your home. So, this must imply that mold gets cold feet during the
winter, right? Wrong!
Mold growth isn’t a seasonal issue. Even when temperatures drop below mold’s sweet spot,
there is still a risk of growth. You need to be aware of a number of factors that make mold a
year-round threat.
Winter weather doesn’t give your Sioux Falls home a break from the risk of mold development.
To keep mold at bay this season, make sure you understand how mold can grow even in
subfreezing temperatures.
Does Mold Freeze Up in the Winter?
Cold weather might not scare away mold completely, but it can slow it down. If your home
already has a mold problem, cold weather does not kill the spores; instead, they become
inactive until the conditions are right.
A sudden increase in indoor temperature and winter weather threats that create excess
moisture are two factors that keep pesky mold at work during the cold months.
Indoor Heating Creates the Perfect Environment
When winter arrives, we use many different heating appliances to make sure our homes stay
warm and cozy. When indoor heating is turned on and the outside temperature is cold, excess
moisture is created, which can result in condensation build-up.
Thanks to this rise in condensation, mold growth around your windows is very common
throughout the winter. Keep an eye on your window sills during these cold months and seal up
any cracks to prevent water from leaking inside.
Winter Weather Brings Water Into Your Home
It should come as no surprise that severe water damage problems could result during these
cold seasons. Sioux Falls’ winter weather brings hazards such as snow and ice storms and
freezing temperatures. When water damage strikes and goes unnoticed, mold is sure to follow!
Snow melt, a frozen pipe rupture and ice dams are just a few of the issues that could send
water straight into your home, increasing your chances of mold growth. When water makes its
way indoors, humidity increases, allowing mold to develop even faster.
If you detect mold growth in your home this winter, call our SERVPRO experts. We can perform
professional remediation and get you back to your cozy home in no time.

Winter Is a Wonderland | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

11/23/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience damage due to a winter storm, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls. We have the experience and equipment for any issue.

Winter doesn’t officially begin until Dec. 21 this year, but depending on where you are, that date may feel very early or very late. In our area and others near us, we know that winter begins much earlier with extreme lows and heavy snows, while other regions mostly slip into winter with only slightly lower temperatures than the rest of the year.

Regardless of where you are, the winter season brings a different set of threats that could leave your property with damages and your family facing the cold (or fog, or rain, or…well you get the picture).

When you know what to anticipate and how to prepare for it, you can rest easily throughout the season knowing your family is safe.

Keep Mold at Bay After a Water Emergency | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

Mold typically grows in the lower portion of a room, particularly behind the baseboard.

As if a water disaster isn’t trouble enough, mold is capable of popping up fast when water is left standing and affected areas are left untreated. Water damage worsens quickly, and mold growth can appear shortly after, ready to wreak havoc.
Once you’ve found the source of your leak and completely shut it off to prevent any more damage, it’s a smart idea to call in a mold remediation expert like our team at SERVPRO to get your problem under control.

Until our team arrives at the scene of your disaster, there are plenty of ways to keep mold at bay. Quickly taking action after water seeps into your home will allow you to avoid a much bigger problem until help arrives:

Quickly Dry Out the Area

You may not be able to dry out everything depending on the severity of your situation, but you can take steps to start the drying process. This won’t just keep mold under control, but it could also mitigate damage caused by standing water.
If possible, open up any doors and windows around your property to allow some ventilation. If water is puddled, clean up anything you are able to with towels. Mold can be prevented by using equipment such as a dehumidifier or a box fan to circulate air and reduce humidity.

Remove Any Affected Items

When it comes to water damage, any items that are soaked can possibly create mold. Collect any affected items and move them to a safe location, preferably one that can hasten the drying process.
It’s helpful to move any items out of impacted rooms even if they aren’t waterlogged to keep anything else from being damaged.

Keep an Eye Out for Growth

The location of your water emergency will play a significant role in the development of mold. Mold may appear quickly in areas like your bathroom, basement and attic since these rooms provide the ideal environment for growth. So it’s helpful to keep an eye out for any signs of mold development.
Even when you dry out areas that are soaked with water, hidden mold coils still become a problem right under your nose. To ensure your water emergency and the risk of a pesky mold problem are both remediated, contact our crew at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, a certified remediation and rapid restoration partner.

Don’t let mold become an out-of-control problem in your home. Count on SERVPRO to dry out your home and keep mold at bay.

The Effect of Water Damage on Your Business | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

10/31/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls are your local commercial restoration company. We will always be here to help and get you back in business.

Flooding from internal or external sources can have a huge impact on any building. An overflowing septic system, a leaky roof or a pipe that bursts can leave your business with destroyed inventory, closed off bathrooms or floors, or at its worst, a closure of your business.

The Sioux Fall River has taught us all in this area how quickly floods from outside can leave behind damages. We have also had to deal with drenching rains and snow melt flash floods that have left behind enormous messes.

With the risk of flooding so high for our area, it is important to prepare before an event can happen. Getting your building ready now means that you can recover that much faster with less stress.

You Should Choose SERVPRO Because We Are Your Neighbors | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

10/10/2022 (Permalink)

No job is too big or small. Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls today to schedule your estimate.

There are many reasons to choose SERVPRO as your partner in restoration. Our highly trained professional staff have years of experience in handling fire, water and storm damage. When you work with SERVPRO, you work with a large amount of expertise.

If you have spotted mold growth in your home or commercial building, our mold remediation services are certified and can take care of your problem before the mold can do structural damages. We also handle specialty concerns, like graffiti removal and biohazard cleanup situations.

But one of the best reasons why you should choose SERVPRO? We are your neighbors.

What to Do When You Suspect Mold Growth | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

Improper humidity control in a bathroom can lead to mold growth.

Mold growth is a problem that can go unnoticed and worsen over time, but even when you don’t see it spreading, you’ll still be able to notice its effects. When mold begins developing in your home, there are a number of signs that you’ll notice.
To ensure this pesky annoyance doesn’t make itself comfortable, you’ll need to know what to look for as soon as you suspect its growth. Since mold can be good at hiding, you might need to rely on growth indicators to locate the source.
Whether you’re dealing with mold or mildew, acting fast should be your top priority to ensure this problem doesn’t worsen. Here’s what you should do if you detect mold growing in your home.

Be Aware of the Signs

When it comes to mold growth, no two situations will be the same. Mold can appear in various shapes and sizes, each of which produces its own distinct characteristics. Thankfully, the warning signs will be relatively similar regardless of the type of mold you’re dealing with.
A musty, rotten smell is one of the first and most apparent indications you’ll notice. Mold’s overpowering earthy smell is an instant giveaway that it’s developing inside your home.
Your carpet, ceiling and walls can all be a breeding ground for mold. Inspect these areas for signs of growth through discoloration, dark spots and warping. If your problem is growing from a leak, you might also find wet spots or condensation around your home.

Search for the Source

Once you’ve identified where the signs first appear, you’ll be better able to pinpoint where mold may be growing.
Mold will thrive in your home as long as the conditions are present and there is enough moisture. Factors such as moisture and humidity can all contribute to the development of mold. Keeping your home well-ventilated and ensuring moisture levels are under 50% can help keep mold under control.
Another problem that could result in mold growth is a hidden leak. Your roof, basement, bathroom and just about any area of your home could begin leaking and eventually result in mold. Have these leaks fixed immediately to ensure mold doesn’t have the moisture it needs to flourish in your home.
And if you need some extra help finding the source of growth, our experts in mold remediation can give you a hand! Our team can inspect your entire property, determine the areas where mold is forming and get the problem under control.

Don’t let mold take over your home! Contact our crew at SERVPRO and we can stop the spread of mold in your home or business.

Don’t Let Lightning Threaten Your Home | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with smoke or fire damage from a recent fire, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to learn about a restoration solution for your issue.

The proper fire safety equipment is essential to protecting your home and keeping your family safe. Home fires are typically preventable, but there are some risks that we can’t do anything about.

Lightning caused 70,000 insurance damage claims during the year 2020, and it can strike 6,000 times a minute. Protecting your home is crucial when you face such high risks.

Easy Ways to Keep Mold at Bay | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

9/12/2022 (Permalink)

Think you may have found mold in your home? Call 605-213-3303 for an inspection.

Mold can have disastrous consequences for your property and any belongings inside. Because mold growth isn't always easy to detect, it’s best to take preventive actions before it develops. Although dealing with mold can be challenging for homeowners, there are easy measures to make it less likely you’ll ever have to.
Factors like excess humidity, the cleanliness of your home and moisture levels can all contribute to mold growth. Controlling these mold growth factors can help you keep mold from invading your home.
Taking steps to ensure mold can’t make itself at home starts with making small changes around your property:

Control Indoor Humidity

High humidity not only causes discomfort in the home, but it can also lead to mold growth! To ensure humidity levels in your home aren’t conducive to mold, use an air conditioner or a humidifier. A humidity meter is a great tool you can use to ensure levels are under 50%.
Exhaust fans are another essential way to ensure rooms like your bathroom or kitchen don’t get too humid. Turn on your fan while showering or when cooking in the kitchen. Make sure not to turn them off right away, leaving them running for a few minutes after you're done.

Keep Moisture Out

Multiple sources of water might introduce moisture into your house. Mold can establish itself fast within your home when moisture is produced by events like powerful storms or a leaking pipe. You might notice excessive dampness in areas like your bathroom, basement or attic.
To stop water from leaking into your house, make sure to fix any leaks from locations like your pipes or roof before they get out of hand. Check your appliances regularly to ensure they’re connected to water securely and aren’t leaking.
Plants can be a decorative way to help keep moisture and humidity levels at bay, as well. Use houseplants to spruce up your home and regulate humidity by sapping up excess moisture!

Keep It Clean

Mold can be prevented in your home by regularly cleaning and disinfecting the surfaces in areas like the kitchen, laundry room and bathroom. With a little elbow grease, mold can be removed from surfaces such as tile, wood or fabric.
Of course, not all mold can be eliminated by simple cleaning, and mold could still be lurking deep within whatever surface it’s growing on. Calling in specialists to properly rid your property of mold spores is the best course of action if you discover mold patches that return despite your cleaning efforts.

When mold develops in your home, don’t wait for it to spread! Call on our experts at SERVPRO to remediate your mold problem before it worsens.

Inside and Out Flood Protection | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get the restoration process started right away.

Regardless of where you live, you need to be protected from floods. It takes as little as an inch of water to do damage that could end up costing any property owner quite a bit.

Not everyone can rely on private insurers or federal funds for help, which means prevention is key to minimizing your losses.

Protecting your home first means you need to understand your risks. Over the years, we have seen substantial flooding in Sioux Falls. Our springs typically bring snow melt that can lead to flash floods.

We also have to contend with ice dams that can cause rivers to overflow. These risks mean the more we can protect our homes, the safer we can stay.

End of summer storms

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Even if the skies are green, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help!

While we are nearing the end of summer and moving in to fall, severe storms are still possible in the Sioux Falls area. Last year we received a 7 inch rain on the first weekend of September. With a heat wave gripping the nation, including temperatures in the 90’s in South Dakota, the conditions are ripe for thunderstorms and potential hail damage. 

if your home or business is damaged by any late summer storms, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by at the ready to help you through your emergency situations. Our crews are available 24/7 to help remediate water and storm damage and restore your home. Any structural damage resulting from storms can be restored and rebuilt with the help of our construction team! 

SERVPRO Wants to Handle Your Restoration | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

8/25/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what type of disaster you face, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is only a phone call away.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is independently owned and operated, which means that like so many of you, we understand how difficult the day-to-day of running a business can be. You have to handle so much all at once, and a disaster can throw everything off-course.

Natural disasters can’t be prevented, and sometimes they can’t even be predicted, but you can prepare yourself for them. And we know that disasters don’t just strike the office, so that means preparing yourself at home as well.

The American Red Cross is a great source for general disaster knowledge. They have data from a variety of disasters that have happened across the United States that can serve to help you protect yourself from several different scenarios.

For more localized information on the most common disasters we see in South Dakota, keep our state emergency management website marked so that you are aware of any statewide information that may be put out. You should also stay familiar with our city website for use when an event is taking place right here at home.

When you do experience damages at home or the office, response time will always be the most important way to minimize the effects. The faster you can start restoration, the more of your property you can save. That is why you want SERVPRO as your go-to professionals.

Common Storm Damages | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Sioux Falls your first call.

A severe storm can be a real headache for anyone, but as a homeowner, you have the extra worry of wondering if your home will receive damages. Most recently built homes can withstand a high level of weather-related trauma, but sometimes storm damage just can’t be avoided.

While threats will change with the seasons, severe thunderstorms, hail, snow showers or freezing rain can all cause damage to your property, even hurting the structure of your house.

Your risk level when it comes to storm damages will change according to different factors, including the kind of storm moving through, the way your home is built and even what you have done with your yard. Sometimes, though, whether your home is damaged in a storm just comes down to luck.

While our warmer months tend to be fairly mild in Sioux Falls, we know that our cold winters can come with heavy snowfalls, freezing rains and frozen rivers. And when all of that begins to melt, we have flooding to contend with as well.

Since we also cannot rule out the occasional thunderstorm, we need to be particularly prepared in order to keep ourselves safe. The more we can learn about the most common kind of storm damage, the more we can do to mitigate our risks and save ourselves that headache.

Wind

Wind damages are a frequent occurrence in a lot of different storms in every season when gusts beat buildings at high speeds. Tornadoes and hurricanes come with these kinds of winds, but even a regular thunderstorm can have gusts of up to 100 mph and cause a lot of damage.

When winds get up to this kind of strength and speed, they can easily throw loose items into homes or vehicles. To protect yourself and your property when a storm is predicted to have high winds, seek shelter in a room of your home where you can steer clear from windows and walls. Debris moving at this rate can easily pierce walls and break windows.

You can take action before a storm moves in that can help prevent damages on your property. Get rid of large limbs and rocks.

Secure your outdoor furniture and flower pots so they don’t budge when the wind gets strong. The more debris and loose items you can anchor or get rid of, the less damages high winds can do.

Water

Water creates damage all around the nation and is one of the more common hazards of weather-related disasters. Even a short-lived storm can dump enormous amounts of rain and leave the ground completely saturated. This can lead to leaks through the seals on your window and doors.

If enough rain pools up outside your house, it can begin to soak through your floors and leave the foundation of your home wet, which can result in structural damages.

Just as you can take steps to protect your property from wind damages, you can also take action to minimize the damages that water can do. Your landscaping around your home is often the first line of defense, and it can be used to force water away. You should consider installing a rain garden, which is highly effective at absorbing water before it becomes a problem.

You should also clean your gutters to ensure water is flowing well. If gutters become clogged, water can leak over the sides and puddle on the roof, which can mean a leak that drips onto every level of your house.

Impact

Another form of storm damage that is actually quite common and can happen in any storm is called “impact damage.” Impact damage occurs when an object hits another object, or makes impact, as a result of wind or saturated soils. Downed trees are one of the common sources of impact damage.

To protect your home from impact damages, keep trees well-trimmed and remove any dead greenery. Take out trees that are not doing well or Mother Nature may try to do it for you.

In 2021 alone, weather-related disasters created an excess of $145 billion in damages. When you protect your property, you can save yourself money and rest easier knowing your home is safe.

If you do end up with damages as a result of a weather event, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls. We have years of experience and industry leading equipment to get your restoration started ²⁴⁄₇. No matter what you may face, we can handle it and get you back home and back to life faster.

When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get your storm damage restoration started faster.

From Start to Finish

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the scope of your damage, our team is equipped to help!

Whether it’s fire damage, water damage, or any type of damage, having your home life disrupted can be an emotional and stressful time. Even for the brave DIY folks out there, sometimes damage is too much to handle on your own. 

When that happens, it’s time to call SERVPRO Of Sioux Falls. At SERVPRO, we are built to help you restore, clean, and repair your home, no matter the extent of damage. Our crews are trained and experienced in the mitigation of fire, water, and mold damage.

Depemding on the scope of your damage, we are a licensed general contractor able to help you with any constructions needs. From a drywall patch all the way up to a new build on a home, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help!

The Many Places Mold Can Grow | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

8/1/2022 (Permalink)

Find a strange growth on your walls? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls!

When it comes to mold, there is almost no surface where it can’t grow. Your clothes, food and many of the rooms you frequent inside your home daily can all be mold hosts. As long as it has every ingredient mold needs to form, you could be looking at a huge problem waiting to worsen!
Not only does mold grow super quickly when conditions are right, but it can find a spot in almost every corner of your home. Of course, there are some rooms where you’ll be more likely to find your mold problem developing.
In any case, here are a few locations in the home where mold can pop up and what it takes for it to grow:

The 3 Key Ingredients for Mold Growth
Mold needs a few key conditions to flourish in order to spread rapidly inside your home. The combination of all these factors gives mold the perfect opportunity to create a major issue in your home.
Moisture is the main component of mold development; without it, mold wouldn’t be able to form in the first place. After this, humidity is what gives mold an environment to survive in.
Finally, all mold needs is a place to grow inside your home. Whether it’s on your walls, ceiling or floor, mold can find a home on almost every surface of your property. Mold is especially favorable to dark rooms inside your home because UV light helps to kill mold spores.

So, where could you find these annoying spores in your home?

Deep within your basement. As stated above, mold thrives in dark corners of the home, so it’s no surprise mold is commonly found in the basement. Moisture is prevalent in basements due to foundation leaks or condensation from your appliances.

Up in your attic. Another place you could spot mold is in your home’s attic. The attic can be the perfect environment for mold due to it being humid and collecting moisture from issues like a leaky roof or poor ventilation. Wood framing in the attic can also collect moisture which leads to mold growth.

Inside your bathroom. The bathroom is one room in your house where water is used practically everywhere. Mold loves a humid environment and the moisture from your shower or bathtub, which provides it the ideal breeding ground.

Rooms that utilize appliances. The kitchen and laundry room both contain water-using equipment like refrigerators, dishwashers and washing machines. While these appliances are helpful in many ways, they can sometimes malfunction and lead to leakage. Water drips onto your floors or walls and gives mold the opportunity to swoop in and leave you with a big problem!

If you detect mold in your home, we can remediate it no matter where it pops up. Our team at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls uses advanced techniques and equipment to make your home mold-free.

Disruption to Business Caused by Fire

7/29/2022 (Permalink)

Extensive smoke and soot damage in a stairwell of a local business.

Fires can happen any where, at anytime. Caused by a myriad of issues such as electrical problems to human error, a fire in your business can seem devastating. Your business is disrupted, your inventory could be damaged. Don’t lose hope! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help! 

Our team is experienced in helping to restore your place of business. Depending on the extent of damage, our crew can quickly devise a plan of action involving cleaning, possible demolition, and construction if necessary. 

Using proprietary cleaning solutions, our team is able to clean both your building structure and the contents of your building. We will assess your inventory and work with you on cleaning and salvaging what can be saved of your inventory.

A closed business means you are not making any money, our goal is to get your business operable as quickly as possible! 

Staying Fire-Aware in the Backyard | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

Sitting around the fire with your family is the perfect summer memory maker. Roasting hot dogs, toasting marshmallows and embarrassing your teenagers with stories of your childhood lead to an unforgettable night.

Fire serves us in many ways around our home, including grilling our dinner, keeping the bugs at bay and cleaning up the yard. You may feel like that small brush fire you started is completely in control, but in an instant, it can grow to a dangerous size. The National Park Service found that 85% of wildfires are started by humans.

Like the rest of our state, we have experienced high risk of grassland fires for most of spring and summer this year. The combination of dry grounds, low humidity and high winds created red flag warning days throughout March.

2021 was a very difficult year for wildfires as we watched so much land burn throughout the state. It is important that we are consistently fire-aware in order to keep our homes safe.

This does not mean you have to stop all of your fun. Follow local safety regulations when they are in place, make sure your own safety measures are ready to go and use your backyard as you wish. And don’t forget the chocolate.

Staying Fire-Aware in the Backyard | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

Sitting around the fire with your family is the perfect summer memory maker. Roasting hot dogs, toasting marshmallows and embarrassing your teenagers with stories of your childhood lead to an unforgettable night.

Fire serves us in many ways around our home, including grilling our dinner, keeping the bugs at bay and cleaning up the yard. You may feel like that small brush fire you started is completely in control, but in an instant, it can grow to a dangerous size. The National Park Service found that 85% of wildfires are started by humans.

Like the rest of our state, we have experienced high risk of grassland fires for most of spring and summer this year. The combination of dry grounds, low humidity and high winds created red flag warning days throughout March.

2021 was a very difficult year for wildfires as we watched so much land burn throughout the state. It is important that we are consistently fire-aware in order to keep our homes safe.

This does not mean you have to stop all of your fun. Follow local safety regulations when they are in place, make sure your own safety measures are ready to go and use your backyard as you wish. And don’t forget the chocolate.

Storm Alert Meanings Can Help You Stay Safe | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration need.

If you find yourself overwhelmed with information after looking outside and seeing scary clouds, you are likely not the only one! There are 42 different kinds of weather alerts broken down into seven different categories. That is a lot of information to take in when you simply want to stay safe.

Understanding what different weather advisories mean allows you to prepare your family and move to safety quickly. You can also take preventive action to prepare your house before the storm in order to minimize damages later.

Having a good idea of how multiple weather systems work is helpful, but understanding the most commonly seen severe weather that happens right here in South Dakota is crucial in protecting your home.

Commercial Loss Response

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Our truck mounted desiccant dehumidifier on action.

Typically, commercial businesses are larger than your average home. This logic would dictate that a water loss at a commercial business would be larger with more damage. While these are typically true, at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we treat every loss the same. We know for small business owners, their business may be just as important as their home.

A commercial water loss may require more equipment, but SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is equipped to handle any size of loss! Take for instance our recent water loss at a local Sioux Falls hotel. We received a call from the hotel after they had a water main break. Upon arrival our teams began extracting water and placing equipment strategically to achieve the best drying results. With the whole first floor affected, our crew spread out over the property and got to work getting this business owner back to normal!

What Causes Mold Growth in Your Home or Business | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

7/8/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth visible on corner of wall.

Mold can grow in any area where moisture or dampness is present. Mold isn’t a slow-growing problem. It can start growing in your home in as little as 24 hours!

We’ve compiled a list of some of the most common sources of mold growth within the home. Read on to discover what you can keep an eye out for to keep your home mold-free:

Humidity: Humidity in the air can allow mold to develop quickly within the home. Humidifiers, dryers, and even the stove or the shower can cause humidity levels to rise. Try to keep your home’s humidity between 30 and 50% to avoid any unwanted mold.

Leaking roof: Rain or flood water can enter your home through your roof, causing excessive humidity and allowing mold to thrive. Improper seals, clogged drains and insufficient or faulty roofing materials can all allow water to leak into your home. Have your roof inspected and repaired when damage is present at least once a year to prevent unwanted moisture from creating mold.

Leaking appliances: Faulty appliances can create a mold nightmare when left unresolved. Equipment like your dishwasher, air conditioner, fridge and any other appliances that use water can malfunction, resulting in hidden moisture that allows mold to grow in places that aren't visible. If any of your appliances begin to leak water, turn off your home’s main water source and immediately clean up any standing water to prevent mold growth.

Flooding: Flooding can result in a large-scale mold infestation. Mold can grow in floods when conditions such as power outages, hot temperatures and, of course, excess flood water are present. Mold and standing water should be dealt with by a professional in the field of repair and remediation to ensure the best possible outcome in getting your house back in good condition.

We are the experts to call when you find mold lurking in your home!Contact us today, so we can act fast to ensure your property is free of mold.

Common Causes of Damage to Commercial Properties

6/16/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is your local commercial disaster team. Contact us to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services.

Our country thrives on small businesses, and it always has. We all likely visit several every day between work, play and supplying our homes with the things we need.

When you own a business, you carry a heavy load with the ins and outs of daily operations. If a disaster strikes, it can have devastating consequences not only on your building but on your business as a whole.

The cost of damages from natural disasters has been on a steady incline in the United States recently. Actually, in the last five years, there has been as estimated $153 billion worth of damages done annually. This represents a large increase from previous periods and is quite alarming.

Here in Sioux Falls, we know to anticipate cold, snowy winters and warm summers with lots of clouds year-round. Along with our high amounts of snowfall, we can also experience severe thunderstorms, floods and even the occasional tornado in the warmer months.

In May of this year, we saw a round of storms that created a good deal of damage across the Midwest, including in our own neighborhoods. These widespread storms brought straight-line winds, heavy rain and a tornado touching down in the Castlewood area that left the high school with roof and wall damage.

This round of scary storms was a strong reminder of why we should always be prepared. The more we can learn about the ways our businesses can be damaged, the more we can do to protect them.

Sneaky Signs That Mold Has Become an Issue in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

Microscopic photo of mold growth.

Mold may be something that you typically associate with produce that is past its prime or decaying plant matter in your compost bin, but mold in your home is a different and far more insidious issue. Mold within the home is persistent and pervasive, and once it sets up a colony, getting rid of it becomes more difficult with each passing day.

There are some clear signs that mold is present in the home: A persistently musty odor, black spots on the walls or a thin film on your ceiling are all tell-tale signs. However, there are some sneakier signs of mold as well, and these can often go unnoticed while the problem is allowed to pervade.

Here’s a look at some of these sneaky indicators so you can be vigilant in keeping an eye out around your own home for a mold problem:

Peeling paint or wallpaper- Mold loves moisture, and one common sign that you have a moisture issue in your home is wallpaper or paint that has begun to bubble or peel. This may indicate that the humidity in an area is high or that there is water damage behind the impacted wall—and if this is the case, that can also be a sign that mold has set up shop somewhere nearby, too.

Discoloration on the walls or ceiling- Any time you notice discoloration within your home, it is important to take note. Discoloration is almost always due to a water stain—this may mean that there is a leak impacting the discolored area, or something else is allowing water to pool behind the surface. Either way, this is something you will want to address as soon as possible in order to address any mold that has been allowed to arise.

An odd smell from your air conditioning unit- Because of the condensation they produce, air conditioning units can be prime spots for mold to begin growing—especially standalone or window units. If you notice yours is putting off an odd odor when it is switched on, that may be an indicator that something is amiss.

If you think you may have a mold issue on your hands, we are here to help. You can get in touch with us 24/7 to learn more about our mold remediation process—contact us now.

When Do I Need to Install a Dehumidifier in My Home? | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

A dehumidifier for trouble areas in your home can be a great tool for lowering humidity and possibly preventing microbial growth.

If you have ever had a mold infestation on your hands in the past, you know it is something that no one wants to deal with. Mold can be insidious and far-reaching, and once it becomes established, it is essential to have it properly remediated to prevent it from becoming a recurring issue.

For this reason, many people are hoping to be proactive in regard to preventing mold. Mold prevention is a much more sustainable strategy, and because we know that mold likes damp, humid places, addressing the moisture levels in an area is a great method for abating any growth. 

Can a Dehumidifier Help Prevent Mold? Mold thrives the best on areas that are damp, humid or otherwise have a high moisture content, which is exactly what a dehumidifier is designed to combat. A dehumidifier can be a great tool in reducing the overall humidity of the air, so if you have an area that is persistently damp or poorly ventilated, this can be a great tactic. That being said, if you are dealing with a water damage issue, such as previous flooding that was improperly addressed or a hidden leak, it is important to get proper restoration that addresses the root of the matter, otherwise the mold will likely keep returning. 

What Type of Dehumidifier Should I Choose? There are a lot of options when it comes to the types of dehumidifiers to choose for your home. Some models are portable and plug into a wall outlet, so they can be utilized in various areas of the home as needed—but these must be emptied regularly to remain effective. Other models, designed for garages, basements, crawl spaces and other areas notorious for high moisture content, can be installed permanently with a drainage system so they can kick on and off as needed. 

How Do I Know If I Need a Dehumidifier? If you are not sure if a dehumidifier is what you need in your home, measuring the moisture in the air with a hygrometer is advised. Ideally, humidity levels should remain below 50% throughout the home to discourage mold and mildew growth. *If you have discovered mold in your home, we are the team to call. We specialize in mold remediation and are here 24/7. Contact us today!

What Is Your Storm Emergency Plan? | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how bad the storm is, SERVPRO is Here to Help!

Each year, there are close to 100,000 thunderstorms around the nation. These frequent weather events can be scary, bringing strong winds, lightning, hail and intense rain, all of which can cause personal danger and property damage.

Our extremely cold temperatures might give us a sense of security when it comes to dangerous thunderstorms, but we are far from immune. Thunderstorms and tornadoes are not uncommon, especially in the spring and summer months. We always need to be prepared for any weather that may come our way.

Your Severe Weather Communication Strategy

Understanding weather terms, particularly the differences between a watch and a warning is the first step in keeping your family safe. By knowing when to wait and when to go, you can clearly communicate with your household and activate the weather plan you have created together.

It is a good idea to have several ways to receive warnings from weather officials. Your cell phone and a weather radio from the NOAA are good tools to have ready to go when a storm is rolling in.

Create a designated safe area in your house (typically a bathroom or basement) and ensure that everyone in your family knows where it is. A communication plan for your household is also recommended to ensure that everyone can check in during and after a storm. Be sure this plan includes a way for anyone who may not be home at the time of the event to check in so that all can be accounted for.

Your Severe Weather Emergency Kit

An emergency kit can be prepared ahead of time and updated throughout the year. It should contain enough water and food for each member of your family to sustain them through 72 hours. First-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries and any comfort items that can aid in the calming of your household should also be in the kit.

Your Severe Weather Aftermath Checklist

Time matters after a storm, so it is essential to take quick action to mitigate losses. You should have a plan in place before a storm strikes so that you can act quickly and get your family to safety. As soon as you can, you should walk your property and assess any damage.

As you walk the property, pay special attention to your roof, windows and doors to ensure they are still properly sealed and note any water damage that may have occurred.

If your home is damaged, call us at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls. We are available 24/7 and can offer you peace of mind after the storm as we take on your restoration and get you back to normal faster.

Once the storm is gone and recovery has started, gather your family and note how your plan worked. Is there anything you can change to make your family safer or more comfortable? Were you all able to successfully communicate with one another? How was your emergency kit stocked? Your emergency plan should be updated periodically so you are always ready for the next storm.

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here 24/7 to spring into action—get in touch with us today.

Keep Your Home Safe From Fires | SERVPRO® of Sioux Falls

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration need.

The American Red Cross has responded to more than 20,000 house fires in 2022, and that is only a fraction of the fires the nation has seen so far.

Smoke detectors are the best fire-preventive tool in your home, but there are steps you can take to protect your life and loved ones. Even simple acts of cleaning can help make your home fire-safe.

The Progression of Water Damage

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is your 24/7 water restoration expert. Call us right away if you need immediate service.

A dripping faucet or a little water spot may not seem like a big deal, but you should never underestimate the amount of damage moisture can cause. On average, a household leak can lose up to 10,000 gallons of water per year.

Water can quickly damage floors, walls and any soft surface it comes into contact with. Addressing an issue immediately can mitigate damage, and following this timeline can help produce the best result.

SERVPRO Is the Trusted Restoration Expert

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the damage sustained, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has the tools and team to help your home return to a normal state quickly.

While you may know SERVPRO for our general cleaning, restoration and construction services, there is so much more to who we are. SERVPRO is here to take care of you after even the worst disaster, natural or manmade.

Our services cover all your restoration needs, including water, fire and storm damages. Here in South Dakota, we know how important it is to have a trusted restoration service in our own backyard.

Water Damage

Flooding causes more than $10 billion in damages nationwide each year. Whether it is an inch or a foot, flooding can occur anytime.

We know well the risk of flash flooding resulting from snowmelt or ice dams in Sioux Falls. We have also seen the damage in the past resulting from river flooding when the Big Sioux River has overflowed.

Flooding will affect all of us that own a home or business at some point, but SERVPRO has the experience to help. We can determine the extent of your damage and set up a plan for recovery so that you can make informed decisions.

We have the tools to uncover hidden water damage and eliminate standing water. Our restoration plan will ensure that your home is dry and back to preloss condition as soon as possible.

Fire Damage

Every 23 seconds, a fire department is responding to a disaster in the United States. There was an estimated $8.1 billion dollars in property damage and other losses in 2020.

With our seven-step restoration plan, we start your recovery immediately with inspection, damage assessment and any other step necessary when your home or business experiences fire damage.

Storm Damage

South Dakota weather brings blizzards, river flooding and flash floods. We know the damage this destructive weather can cause, and our goal is to get you back in your space as fast as possible.

Storm and water damage not only affects the structure of your home but your belongings, too. SERVPRO specializes in restoring the contents of your space, so that you can restore rather than replace.

Some of the services we offer include dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleansing and abrasive cleaning. If your location requires a deeper clean, we also offer move-out services, so we can bring you back to preloss condition as soon as possible.

What Sets SERVPRO Apart?

We are available 24/7, and our experts are part of the No. 1 cleanup and restoration company in the nation. SERVPRO has more than 50 years of experience and is backed by a network of more that 1,900 locations in the United States.

We are your Sioux Falls neighbors, and we want to have your home or business back to “Like it never even happened” status as quickly as possible.

Regardless of the type of damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when you need a dependable team to help you rebuild your life.

Do You Know the 4 Things That Cause 3 Types of Flooding?

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

The most common natural disaster is flooding, claiming more lives per year than tornadoes, hurricanes or lightning. Flooding affects everything from individual homes to entire communities and cities.

There isn’t a state or territory in the U.S. that isn’t affected by flooding, and there are similarities in each part of the nation with the types of floods and the casualties they can cause. There are three types of flooding that are common and four main reasons they happen.

<h4types-of-natural-flooding">3 Types of Natural Flooding

Flash floods happen when a storm sits over an area and dumps a high amount of moisture, overwhelming the ground’s ability to absorb all the water. Runoff forms and can carry away large and small objects.

River floods are exactly what they sound like, excess water in a river that causes spillage over the banks and boundaries.

Coastal floods occur near large bodies of water as a result of weather events that force the ocean or gulf to rise. Cyclonic activity, rising tides and storm surge can all create coastal flooding.

<h44-most-common-causes-of-natural-flooding">The 4 Most Common Causes of Natural Flooding

Heavy rainfall. We know when we get heavy rain that we are at risk for flooding from the Big Sioux River and Skunk Creek. These storms that move in with excessive rain can also lead to flash flooding, which is amplified in our developed areas that have more concrete and asphalt than soil for moisture absorption.

Oceanic activity. Our ocean bordering neighbors deal with flooding from weather we don’t have, such as hurricanes, storm surges and rising tides. These floods can create massive damage in coastal communities.

Dams and levees failing. In 2005, one of the most notable levee breaks occurred during Hurricane Katrina. Dams and levees fail when they are cracked or under extreme pressure due to excessive water, causing a massive flood and catastrophic damage.

Snowmelts and ice dams. You can’t live in South Dakota and not understand the risk that comes as our massive amounts of snow begins to melt. Our prolonged freezing temperatures over the winter also lend to the creation of ice dams or ice jams in our rivers. Once a river is blocked water is forced over the banks and flooding ensues in the surrounding area.

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO Of Sioux Falls has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when flooding or water damage makes a mess in your life.

Protein Fire Damage Pt.1

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Food cooking on stove in cast iron pan

We’ve all had the vision, you’ve made it through crunch time and the Top Chef judges are just sampling your offering. Unanimous agreement that your dish is the best! Snap back to reality, and your day dreaming has caused your beautiful ribeye in the cast iron to overcook and start smoking. The smoke detector starts ringing and you rush to turn on a fan and open the windows to air out the house. Crisis averted! Well, maybe not entirely.

Smoke and soot damage from cooking may not be as evident as smoke and soot damage from a traditional fire. While cooking animal proteins such as beef or pork, burning the meat in question can produce smoke that is partly composed of animal fats. This smoke will stick to your walls, however, it may not show on your walls like you would think with traditional smoke. Protein smoke leaves behind a sticky film that is hard to see, but can be just as damaging to your home. Over time, other materials will stick to the film of protein smoke on your walls, such as soot from candles or household dust.

Do not worry though! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is equipped to help you clean and restore your home! Read part two of our protein fire blogs to find out how!

Protein Fire Damage Pt.2

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke damage on walls in top image, smoke damage removed from walls in bottom image

Hopefully you read our first blog in the series and you called SERVPRO of Sioux Falls immediately after you burnt your steaks on the stovetop! As we discussed in the previous blog entry, smoke damage from protein fires doesn’t always make itself evident immediately, but the damage can become costly over time. As the film sits and breaks down it can begin to damage the walls and ceiling of your home, and often times leaving an odor.

Cleaning your walls may seem like a Herculean task, but SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is ready to answer your call! Upon receiving a call, our team will jump in to action and develop a cleaning and restoration protocol for your home. Our staff will perform the necessary cleaning as well as any painting that is necessary. When smoke damages your home, you know who to call!  

You Need an Emergency Prep Plan for Your Business—Here’s Why

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Sioux Falls will be there to help.

If the last two years have taught us anything, it’s to expect the unexpected. Most businesses in the United States and across the world have been impacted in one way or another by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic struck without much advance notice and had ramifications no one expected.

Many of those businesses were forced to close, at least temporarily—and some never reopened at all. That shines a light on a startling fact: It can take only one disruption to push a business off its tracks. 

According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses never reopen after a disaster strikes. Of those that do reopen, around a quarter of them close again within one calendar year.

It’s more important than ever to have an emergency plan in place for your business. But the reality is—most businesses don’t. 

Three-quarters of all small businesses don’t have a plan in place. That has to change! You’ve worked hard to set your business up for success, and you need to plan ahead so you can keep it there.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is proud to help businesses in our community create what’s known as an Emergency Ready Plan. This plan outlines what to do in nearly every situation, from natural disasters to data loss. The goal is that if your business is ever faced with disaster, your team will know exactly what to do, how to do it and when to do it. 

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all plan. We begin by carefully analyzing the needs of your business, including industry-specific concerns, as well as the needs of your employees and customers. These specific factors are used in formulating a plan personalized for your business.

Don’t let a lack of disaster planning put your business at risk! Let our experts at SERVPRO get you prepared with an Emergency Ready Plan. It could be the difference between your business surviving and thriving, or closing down entirely.

When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO of Sioux Fallsto get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery!

SERVPRO is the Business Partner You Need!

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls are your local commercial restoration experts. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

As a business owner or property manager, you know that to keep your company afloat means all hands on deck. In order to make things run smoothly, you need all the help you can get. A loss or a major disruption can be devastating to your commercial property.

Your retail space, rental property or manufacturing facility has a silent business partner built in right here in our Sioux Falls neighborhood. SERVPRO wants to cover so many different business needs for you that it is like having an ally invested in your company.

We can carry the burden of emergency planning, recovery and cleaning.

Large Loss Recovery. Some of the top reasons businesses suffer losses are fire, storms and flooding. These disasters have caused major financial damages across the United States. SERVPRO offers highly trained professionals available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our proven emergency response services can minimize your time apart from your business and get your company back on track.

Emergency Ready Plan. Recovery can begin long before an emergency happens when your business prepares. We can cover your needs completely when we work with you to write an Emergency Ready Plan. This plan can include alternate work locations, a chain of command and temporary vendors. The plan takes action when you say “go.”

Cleaning of All Kinds. SERVPRO has been cleaning a long time, and we can handle basic deep-cleaning of high-traffic areas, carpets and upholstery, as well as specialty cleaning needs including trauma site cleanup and safe biohazard removal. There isn’t a situation we haven’t seen, and we can cover any deep-cleaning your business could ever need.

Restoration Services. A heavy storm brought on flooding. Your new coworker scorched lunch in the office. A pipe burst when the temperatures dropped on one of our many cold nights. Your business may need restoration for a number of reasons, and SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can handle them all. We are experienced in everything from water removal to reconstruction, and we want to get your business back to work faster.

Industry Specialization. We have lived and worked in the Sioux Falls area for a long time. There isn’t an industry we haven’t trained to work with. Whatever your business requires, we are prepared. In many cases, we can even restore or repair while you keep your business running.

Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

You name it, we offer it!

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowner on the phone while looking at computer screen

When you own a home or a business, your plate is full of responsibilities. As a homeowner, you’re responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of your home, your property and your possessions. As a business owner, you add other responsibilities to that plate, overseeing employees and even the safety and welfare of customers.

A disaster can throw a wrench into all your plans. But the good news is: No matter what life throws at you, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls offers the services you need to overcome it. Our expansive services include:

-Water damage recovery: Even the smallest, persistent drip of water can lead to a major problem. Whether you have a leak in your roof or an appliance hose that bursts, our experts can get to you fast to help you recover.

-Fire damage recovery: Would you believe it if we told you that a fire occurs in a U.S. household every 23 seconds? It’s true! We’re here to repair damage caused by the flames, as well as related damage due to soot, smoke and even the water used to put out the fire.

-Mold removal: Have standing water in your home? Mold is likely to follow. Humid, moist conditions are a common breeding ground for mold, so it’s important to have water damage cleaned up promptly. If you spot mold in the house, our team can safely remediate the problem.

-Storm recovery: Mother Nature doesn’t listen to anyone! Weather hazards, including intense thunderstorms and tornadoes, can strike at all times of year. If your home or business is affected by storm damage, we can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

-Commercial needs: You know we cover all the bases for homeowners, but did you realize we offer those same services to businesses, too? In fact, we even have some extra commercial services, designed with the unique needs of businesses in mind.

-General cleaning: After a long day at work, the last thing you want to think about is scrubbing the house. That’s OK! Give us a call when you need your carpets, furniture, drapes and other surfaces cleaned at home.

-Specialty cleaning: Have cleaning needs that are beyond the norm? Our technicians have specialized training in a variety of situations, including biohazard cleanup and document restoration.

-Construction: In some cases, basic restoration won’t be enough to bring your house or business back to preloss condition. We can still handle it, though! We offer a full scope of construction services to help.

-Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get the job done.

Spring Comes With Varying Weather Across the Nation

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Image with Cloudy, Rainy, Sunny, and Snowy Skies

We live in a large nation. The United States is second only to Russia and Canada in total size (though China is also larger if you don’t count all outlying U.S. territories).

With a territory this big comes seasonal weather that can vary greatly. Different geographic regions experience a wide variety of weather patterns, and different weather threats throughout the year.

As we enter into the spring season and warm air increases in the atmosphere, let’s look at what areas of our nation can expect, and specifically what we need to watch out for here in Sioux Falls and our surrounding neighborhoods.

The Pacific Northwest experiences heavy rain in spring, which can cause flooding and water damage. Higher elevations are colder and could still have snow, which can cause melting and runoff issues for the residents of this area.

In the Northeast and here in the Midwest, we tend to have the longest season of winter’s chill. While we are fortunate here in Sioux Falls to enjoy milder days with slightly rising temps, residents from Maine to the northern Dakotas can expect extreme cold and blizzards until early summer. Spring is typically our driest season, however, snowstorms are still a possibility in our forecast until late April.

Far from our landlocked home, the southern West Coast will experience a quick and intense warm up resulting in excessive heat waves that can endanger lives and safety. Places in the South Pacific, including Hawaii, have to watch for possible tsunamis caused by tectonic shifts.

The middle of the country, with states from Iowa to Texas, also moves into spring with much warmer temps than we are accustomed to here in South Dakota. Residents in these states will need to be aware of windstorms, derechos and the risk of wildfires, which spread easily in their dry, windy weather. This region also experiences a high number of tornadoes, giving it the nickname of Tornado Alley.

Finally, the Southeast experiences a variety of extreme weather, from tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in the landlocked states to dangerous rip currents, plus early-season hurricanes later in the spring. While the south is generally far warmer than we are, the southern states still have to contend with swinging temps and the occasional late frost.

While those of us that enjoy cooler temps and dry weather may think our spring season in Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas are ideal, we are not exempt from experiencing severe weather like our neighbors across the nation. No matter what spring may bring, it always pays to be prepared.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

What causes Mold to begin growing in the home?

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Photo of mold spores under a microscope

We have likely all experienced mold growth on spoiled food, but experiencing mold growth on
elements of your home is a much larger concern. Mold is a stubborn and pernicious
species—once it is allowed to take hold, it can cause serious damage and even structural
concerns in the home.
Understanding the characteristics of mold is key to preventing it from growing. Below, we will
look at what mold is, why it grows and how to prevent it so you can keep its spread at bay.

What Is Mold?
Mold is an organism that is always found in the air, both indoors and outdoors. However, it only
becomes a problem when it is allowed to take hold and start growing.
There are several different types of mold that display different coloring and growth patterns, but
all of these can cause serious damages if left untreated and must be remediated as quickly as
possible.

What Encourages Mold to Grow?
Mold spores may be constantly floating around in the air, but they can only begin to grow if
conditions are right. Mold can find its way into homes through open doors, windows, HVAC
systems and even by hitching a ride on the clothing of people or the fur of pets.
The only concern is when these mold spores find their way to areas of excessive moisture.
Areas that have flooded, are experiencing leaks or other types of water damage, or areas that
are extremely humid are all susceptible to mold growth. Mold tends to prefer porous materials
such as wood, drywall, carpet, insulation and fabric, but it can grow in a variety of places.

• How Can I Prevent Mold Growth in My Home?
  Because mold can be extremely stubborn and difficult to handle once it takes hold in the home,
  it is best to approach it with a strategy of prevention instead of remediation when possible.
  Some key ways to prevent mold growth include:
  * Having water damage professionally treated as soon as possible after a leak
  * Promptly repairing any areas that may have grown prone to leaks
  * Increasing ventilation in humid areas without much airflow, such as bathrooms
  * Using a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels in the home under 50% at all times
  *When you discover mold in your home, having professional mold remediation is a must—and
  we are the team to call. Contact us today at 605-213-3303 to learn more about our services.

Caring for your contents after a fire

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

stuffed toy unicorn cleaned after fire damage

Many people are under the assumption that anything in your home that gets damaged by fire, smoke, or soot must be thrown out. Quite the contrary. With developments in technology and the hard work SERVPRO's chemists do in developing the best cleaning products, saving and cleaning your clothing, toys, and most valued possessions can be very possible. 

Granted, depending on material type, some items are non-salvageable. We also see this on items that may have been in the room that the fire occurred in. However, after deeming salvageability, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is able to carefully pack out, inventory, and re-locate your items to our shop for cleaning. 

At our shop, our crew are able to utilize different cleaning products, standard laundry machines, and our state of the art Ultrasonic cleaning machine to get you back your most prized possessions and family heirlooms! 

Spring Storms

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Rain water that entered through foundation crack after spring storm

As we start to hear birds chirping and temperatures inching upwards, that means we are seeing the first signs of spring. What a wonderful time of year. Full of life and excitement. We are excited to be done with winter here at SERVPRO. 

While gearing up for Spring, there are some important things to be aware of regarding spring snows. Often, a Spring storm in South Dakota can bring with it snow, ice, rain, or a combination of all three. The high moisture content of the precipitation can cause issues in your home or business if snow melt has already saturated ground water levels. With the ground saturated, any new precipitation can cause issues with your sump pump or through foundation cracks and leaks. Be prepared for what Spring storms can bring. 

Sioux Empire Home Show 2022

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Logos and memorabilia displayed for a trade show

Another year, another home show in the books! The Sioux Empire Home Show was held on the last weekend of February. The show is an opportunity for vendors such as ourselves to promote our services to the many current and future homeowners of the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area. 

A great opportunity to get potential customer eyes on your business, the Sioux Empire Home Show is help annually by the Sioux Empire Home Builders Association. The Home Builders Association is a fantastic organization that brings together the many home service providers, such as SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, that comprise the Sioux Falls area. 

Not only does the home show provide us with an opportunity to meet new potential customers, it gives us a chance to network with businesses adjacent to ours such as realtors, insurance agents, and potential subcontractors. 

Commercial Water Damage

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage backup in basement of commercial office space

Businesses may not deal with all the same issues as homeowners in regards to their properties, but that does not mean damage does not occur. A large commercial structure may not encounter sump pump backups or foundation leaks as frequently as a homeowner may, but one thing businesses and homes have in common is their connection to the same sewage system. 

Often times through no fault of their own, a business may encounter a sewage backup or toilet backup. Both options are a messy cleanup that take expertise to be done properly. A water loss that includes sewage is considered Category 3 water, meaning it is grossly contaminated and may contain disease-causing organisms and toxins. 

A category 3 water loss is not a loss you simply want to dry. Material demolition may be needed as well as extensive disinfection and cleaning. If you experience a category 3 water loss at your place of business, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303!

Spring precipitation

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fan pointed toward ceiling to help drying process

As we get closer and closer to the beauty and warm temperatures that spring brings, it is a good time to recognize the typical elevated levels of precipitation that come with Spring. As resident South Dakotan’s know, spring can mean snow, ice, rain, or a nasty combination of all three.

An early Spring snow can bring snowstorms that leave snow on your roof. While the snow may melt during the day, temperatures can still get below freezing. This freezing and melting cycle can cause an ice dam to form on your roof. An ice dam occurs when melting water becomes blocked by ice. With nowhere to travel, water can get below your shingles and cause damage to your roof. If you encounter water issues with your roof this spring, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call!

Spring precipitation

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fan pointed toward ceiling to help drying process

As we get closer and closer to the beauty and warm temperatures that spring brings, it is a good time to recognize the typical elevated levels of precipitation that come with Spring. As resident South Dakotan’s know, spring can mean snow, ice, rain, or a nasty combination of all three.

An early Spring snow can bring snowstorms that leave snow on your roof. While the snow may melt during the day, temperatures can still get below freezing. This freezing and melting cycle can cause an ice dam to form on your roof. An ice dam occurs when melting water becomes blocked by ice. With nowhere to travel, water can get below your shingles and cause damage to your roof. If you encounter water issues with your roof this spring, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call!

Check Your Sump Pumps!

2/28/2022 (Permalink)

Sump pump system in utility room

As we inch closer to Spring, it’s important to test the functionality of your sump pump system. Spring in South Dakota brings with it unique challenges as a homeowner. With rain and snow both possible within the same day, sump pumps are often working overtime come Spring. 

A snowstorm in the Spring can blanket the ground with snow cover. As this snow melts, it saturates the ground. This can cause an issue when a rain shower comes through. As the ground water levels have already reached saturation, a heavy rain can cause flooding and sump pump backups. 

it is crucial to test your sump pump now, so you have time to see if you need to make any upgrades to your system. Get ahead of any potential issues in your home. 

Winter Water Damage

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Basement after demolition due to water damage.

When most folks think of a vacation home they imagine a house on the coast somewhere or a winter home in the Southwest. Us South Dakotans do things a little differently. A resident of the area may have a home on a lake or the river that they use in the months where Mother Nature cooperates. These homes are used as a weekend getaway for fishing and other outdoors activities. 

Unfortunately, the winter months can wreak havoc at your home that you may not visit for months at a time. A malfunctioning heating unit can lead to frozen pipes which can cause a lot of damage. If you have any water damage in your warm weather South Dakota home, give a call to SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303! We are standing by to help you get your home back! 

Board up after Fire

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Exterior of home with damage from fire

While responding to a fire, a firefighter will oftentimes knock out a portion of an exterior wall to help combat the flames, depending on the location of the fire within the home. Once extinguished, you are left with a hole from the exterior of your home in to the interior. This can be particularly concerning if the fire damage in minimal enough that the home can be occupied during cleaning. In the cold winter months in South Dakota, it can easily get cold enough to freeze pipes, causing a burst than can greatly damage your home with water. 

A part of SERVPRO of Sioux Falls’ fire damage response includes board up services to protect the interior of your home against the harsh exterior conditions. When your home is damaged by fire, know that we are standing by to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Fire Damage Reconstruction

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Top floor of home damaged by fire

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is uniquely positioned to help you get your home back to normal after a fire. As a company that provides both fire damage mitigation and construction services, we are able to help you from the start of cleanup and contents pack-out through rebuild and resetting of your contents!

No matter the level of damage present, our construction team is Here to help! If the fire was minimal and requires cleaning and maybe some simple drywall repairs, we’re standing by to help. 

Fire cause a significant amount of structural damage? No worries! Our crew can salvage what applies and then build back the rest exactly how you want it! A fire in your home can be a very traumatic and stressful occurrence, allow us to take some of that stress off your hands! 

Winter Storm Damages

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen Water Pipe

You may think a water restoration company such as SERVPRO of Sioux Falls may not do a lot of water work in the winter as precipitation mainly falls as snow which does not cause sump pump failures or ground water issues. On the contrary, we often deal with different types of winter water damage!

Water damage in the winter can come from a variety of sources. Snow pack on your roof can melt and re-freeze, leaving a blockage of ice in your gutters. This is referred to as an ice dam. As more snow melts but can't escape through the gutters, it can get inside your roof and cause interior water damage. 

Power outages from a winter ice storm can cause heat to shut off and pipes can become frozen, leading to a pipe burst in your home that can cause an immense amount of damage. 

Even outside of water damage, dangerous driving conditions can cause a vehicle to spin out and potentially strike a structure such as a garage or home. 

No matter the damage that occurs, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help! Our crews are able to respond to winter storm damage 24/7, ready to help all customers in the Sioux Falls and Eastern south Dakota areas!

Year in Review for SERVPRO of Sioux Falls

12/15/2021 (Permalink)

Holiday Greeting Card with SERVPRO logo

Happy Holidays! 

Another year has come and gone. We’re blessed to be celebrating our eighth holiday season in business! It’s been a year full of excitement and growth for the SERVPRO of Sioux Falls Team. Our team stepped up to the call and used our gained knowledge and experience to help us fulfill our goal of creating happy customers!

It was a busy year for our staff in terms of professional development. On top of our weekly staff training meetings and ongoing training through SERVPRO University, several members of our team were able receive certifications in a variety of IICRC courses. The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is responsible for creating and upholding the standards that help shape the industry. 

Our Office Manager Shelby Casale earned her Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration certification to add to her previous certification in Water Damage Restoration. 

Our Business Development Professional and Estimator Josh Baker attended courses and gained his certification in Water Damage Restoration and Applied Microbial Remediation. Josh has also taken time this year to serve on the membership committee of the Sioux Empire Home Builders Association. 

Our Lead Crew Chief Travis Yunginger added his certification in Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration to a previously held certification in Water Damage Restoration. Travis is making great use of his certifications in helping our customers with all levels of restoration by completing their construction projects.

Owner Adam Birger continued to add to his certifications, earning a Triple Master designation. Adam is a Master Textile Cleaner, Master Fire and Smoke Restorer, and Master Water Damage Restorer. As well as running his business, Adam has taken the time to help the community of Tea grow by serving as an officer on the Tea Chamber for Development. He and his wife, and business partner, Jessica are also part owners of a 29 year old home building company currently based out of Watertown SD. 

We are excited for the New Year and the many opportunities it will bring! Happy Holidays from our SERVPRO family to yours!

Water damage in heavy machinery shop

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Water mixing with debris and dirt on machine shop floor.

On Saturday afternoon, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls received a call from a customer who operated a specialized machine shop where they build radiators for trucks and large vehicles. One of their machines caught fire during operation and in turn, the fire suppression system which combined water with a fire suppressant powder, covered the working area with water and debris.

We received the call after the company had reached out to one of our competitors and had started work, which was not up to the level that the company needed. They were on a deadline to get the normal operation of their assembly line ready to go by Monday morning, or else risk losing $75,000 per hour that they were not able to operate. 

Our crew ended up working on Saturday and Sunday evening, even working until 2:00 AM Monday morning to get the job done to our customers specs! 

The radiator company was thrilled with the level of clean we achieved, and our willingness to work into the early morning to get the job done! 

Wait, snow in the forecast already?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Snow on roof of customer’s home.

Well, thankfully, not for the Sioux Falls area yet. Our ten day forecast looks like the beautiful fall weather will continue for some time yet. But what better time to start preparing for winter and the harsh weather it can bring?

South Dakotans know how harsh and brutal the winds can be on the plains during the winter season. Winds so strong that they bring the windchill down by 20 degrees sometime. These strong winds don’t only require us to wear the proper clothing, we need to be aware of the damage they can cause to our homes and businesses. High winds can cause tree limbs and branches to snap off and hit structures. A hole in your roof is a big problem. Add in winter temperatures and possibly even precipitation, and all the sudden we have some trouble on our hands. If you have an emergency issue at your home or business that requires emergency board up service, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls anytime day or night.

Mold in the crawl space

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on Crawl space wall

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls was recently called out to look at a possible mold growth in the crawl space of a lake home. Homes upon the waterfront are notorious for having high humidity and encountering water damage from ground water seepage. 

The home in question had about 2 feet of water for almost over a year. As you can guess, this provided the optimal conditions for the growth and spread of mold. 

Working in a crawl space or other confined spaces are one of the areas that SERVPRO specializes in! Our crews are ready to perform the work, wherever it needs to be done. Using the proper PPE and mold remediation techniques, our technicians are able to successfully remediate mold in nearly any setting. 

If you have a possible mold growth in your home or business, give a call to SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303 to schedule your mold estimate today! 

We clean the messes you shouldn't clean on your own

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Photo of sewage loss in customer's basement

Most messes around the home are easy to clean up on your own. Your child spills a glass of milk, that's easy enough to clean up. Maybe you are snacking on chips during the big game and you spill crumbs all over. Simply get the vacuum out and you're good to go. But, what do you do if your sewage system backs up. Or if you are sharpening your kitchen knives and you accidentally cut yourself, leaving behind blood? In those instances, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help!

Our crew are properly trained to clean sewage and other biohazards such as trauma or crime scenes. Using the correct protective equipment and our specially developed cleaning supplies, our team will help you do the cleaning that you need. 

What to do after the fire is out

9/15/2021 (Permalink)

Kitchen of home damaged by fire

A fire in your home can be a very traumatic event. Your life will most likely be disrupted for a number of months. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to Help restore your home and get you back in your normal lives.

After the important realization that your family is not harmed, you may then start to be concerned with your belongings. We understand this concern and that is why we begin the contents packing and tracking as soon as initial board up and clean up is complete. We know you will be displaced and how important it is to you to have some of your personal belongings in your temporary home to help ease the transition. We will inventory your clothing and other contents and bring them back to our shop to begin the cleaning process. Once at the shop you can tell us which items are a priority for cleaning, such as clothes for work, and we will get those cleaned and returned as quickly as possible.

Once the contents are removed from the home we can begin the necessary demolition and cleaning of the structure. As this process is taking place, our rebuild team will be working with you and your insurance to come up with a plan to make your home a home again!

We know we can’t make the entire process quick and easy, but we will work our hardest to make the job process as smooth as possible with clear communication along the way.

Area Thunderstorms

8/27/2021 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO fans loaded up in a van, ready for a job site.

Having received some rain and thunderstorms early Friday evening, the ground will be saturated with rain. Local farmers are rejoicing but as a homeowner you may want to be sure to keep an eye on your sump pump and any other areas where ground water could get in to your home. The forecast calls for thunderstorms through the weekend. 

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by to help with any emergency damage you may receive from the storms. Our crew is able to respond to emergencies 24/7 and is ready to help with your storm response. If wind or rain damages your home or business, our team can be there quickly to do any necessary emergency board up to prevent any further damage. Once further damage has been prevented, our crew can begin the mitigation and drying process and get on the path to restoring your property! 

Prepare your business for emergencies!

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Be Ready logo

Risk management is a huge part of being a business owner. Risk management can cover many things, from inventory control to employee safety. Many aspects of running a business need risk management strategies that you may not even think of. When it comes to the risk management of the physical structure of your business, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to help!

At SERVPRO, we have a wonderful program we offer free of charge to our commercial customers. The program is known as the Emergency Ready Profile, or ERP for short. In the simplest of terms, the ERP is an assessment of the structure of your business. We will tour through your facility and find areas of importance to know of when an emergency strikes. Say your office complex has a burst pipe and you need to know where the water main shutoff is in a hurry to stop more water from coming out. With an ERP performed at your business, you will have that information at the tip of your fingers.

After compiling the necessary information from your business, our team will send over a completed hard copy profile as well as an invitation to download the ERP app, which allows you to have all the necessary emergency information available to you on your phone.

To schedule an ERP for your commercial facility, call us today at 605-213-3303.

Mold found during home inspection

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growing through drywall in corner of basement.

In the the Sioux Falls area, we are currently experiencing one of the hottest real estate markets ever. Interest rates are low and demand for homes is at an all time high as many people are moving to our great city. As a homeowner, you may be seeing what homes are selling for and getting interested in listing your own home to see what kind of money you can make. One of the steps of trying to sell a home is having a home inspector look at your property to look for signs of damage or anything that needs to be fixed before sale.

One of the most common issues spotted on a home inspection is mold. Mold often likes to hide in spots that aren’t visible to the eye unless you have the intention of looking for it. This allows mold to often grow unchecked until something like a spring cleaning or home inspection occurs.

If mold is spotted by a home inspector in your home, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call. Our crew will schedule a time to perform an estimate at your home, with no charge in the Sioux Falls area. Our team can come up with an action plan that will take care of the mold and get your home ready to sell!

Damage from fridge leak

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

Damage to basement of home, below fridge leak.

One of the most common non-storm generated sources of water losses we see in homes are a leak from your refrigerator. Unfortunately, these losses can be quite tricky. As refrigerators are often wedged in between cabinets, we cant really see what’s happening below or behind the unit. If your fridge is leaking but its not making itself evident by showing in the front of the fridge, the leak can continue for weeks, even months in some cases. Oftentimes, a fridge leak is not noticed until damage shows through in the ceiling below where the fridge sits. If you get to this stage before noticing your leak, don’t fret, its not the end of the world.

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, our crew is experienced in handling damage from fridge leaks. Depending on the condition and composition of your flooring below the fridge, we have many different drying techniques to try and salvage what we can. Below the fridge, our team can make necessary drywall cuts to allow us to dry the subfloor from below so as to avoid removing it. Any necessary rebuild work after mitigation can be taken on by our reconstruction team! We’re Here to Help get your home back!

No duct cleaning too big!

8/19/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial HVAC unit

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we are the leaders in clean! While most businesses may have a janitorial cleaning staff for day to day cleaning and upkeep, many businesses may never even think about getting their ducts cleaned. This is where we can help! 

At SERVPRO, no duct cleaning job is too big! Our staff can handle jobs ranging from a single family home to    Large commercial facilities such as a hospital or supermarket. A professional duct cleaning can have great benefits for both your customers and your staff.

A professional duct cleaning can improve the air quality in your facility, help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, and possibly save you money on your utility bill! What business owner doesn’t love saving money?

If you think a duct cleaning might be right for your business, give us a call! 605-213-3303

On the Road Again

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO fleet of vehicles on a job site.

Why choose SERVPRO? Our franchise is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, but that is far from the limits of our service area. We understand that losses happen everywhere, and some customers in smaller towns may not have access to a proper restoration company. Our goal is to serve as many customers in any way we can.

In the past 6 months our team has responded to fire losses, water damage calls, and mold work in Minnesota, Iowa, and North Dakota, on top of our service areas in South Dakota. Our goal is to creat happy customers, wherever they may be. 

If you are in need of mitigation or remediation services, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call anytime day or night! We are here to help!

Commercial Duct Cleaning with SERVPRO!

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial HVAC Unit

As a business owner or manager, your day is filled with managing your staff, seeking out new business, and making sure your customer’s needs are met. It’s enough to keep your mind occupied, that’s for sure. Some things are bound to slip through the cracks, particularly regular maintenance of your business place.

Allow us to help with that! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help by performing a duct cleaning at your Sioux Falls area business. 

A duct cleaning at your business can have many benefits. A duct cleaning can help to remove dust, dander, and other irritants from your HVAC system, helping to improve both the cleanliness and air quality of your business. On top of the health benefits, a duct cleaning can potentially help you save money! Removing dust and buildup in your HVAC system can help to allow it to run at its peak efficiency, thereby saving you money over time. 

Call to schedule a duct cleaning for your business today! 

Great Time for a Duct Cleaning

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Ducts before and after a cleaning by SERVPRO.

While summers in South Dakota typically get hot, we don’t typically see that heat until late July and in to August. This summer has been the exception. We kicked off June with two weeks of temperatures above ninety degrees! While this has led many folks to seek solace at their favorite local watering hole, it also means you have probably been running your air conditioner more than usual. Looking for a way to improve the efficiency of your HVAC unit so it doesn’t have to work as hard to keep up? SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has just the solution!

Our team can perform a duct cleaning at your home that will get your air flowing at peak efficiency. Over time our HVAC system picks up dust and debris that can make your system run less efficiently. A duct cleaning with SERVPRO knocks the dust and debris loose so it can be vacuumed out and collected, leaving you with a clean, efficient HVAC unit! 

Summer storms affecting your business?

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial water damage image.

As summer rolls on in Southeastern South Dakota, we have had an uptick in storms and weather incidents occurring recently. The past week alone has brought hail damage, heavy rains, and thunderstorms to the Sioux Falls area. We have seen a steady stream of calls in to our office to help customers throughout the area with water issues in their homes and businesses.

If your business receives any storm damage, our teams are standing by 24/7 to help! If a hail storm causes a hole in your roof or a stone breaks a window, our team can board up any damaged areas so as to limit further damage from the elements. Upon our arrival our team will assess your business, perform any necessary extraction, and come up with the correct drying plan to get your business operating as its supposed to!

Damage to your business caused by fire?

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Office with visible fire damage.

Upon receiving a call from your business regarding a fire, our on-call team of IICRC certified technicians will spring in to action to help you mitigate the damage and begin the restoration process. A fire in a business often times includes the need to board up any areas damaged by the fire or by the firefighters. Our team can arrive on scene and board up your business so as to not further invite any damage from elements such as rain.

A response to a fire in a business can actually include water extraction as well, depending on the size of the fire and amount of water needed to extinguish it. If necessary, our team can complete that process before moving on. One of the biggest concerns of business owners is the status of their inventory. With SERVPRO, your inventory is in good hands. Our crews can catalogue and inventory every item that can be cleaned and salvaged. Using a bar code system our team can track your inventory throughout the cleaning process.

Once the initial stages are complete, the cleaning, necessary demolition, and rebuilding can begin. We know fires can be very traumatic experiences and SERVPRO of Sioux Falls wants to be there to help you through the whole process!

Sewer Backup

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage backed up through floor drain in cement basement.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls recently completed a mold mitigation job in Salem, South Dakota. A member of our team arrived the next day to pick up our air scrubber, they noticed a mass of sewage had come up through the basement drain after a heavy rain event in the area. We immediately alerted the customer and made an agreement to send a team up to the area the next day to help clean and sanitize the affected space. After all, who wants to deal with a messy, stinky, hazardous cleanup job?

Well, we do! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is well-equipped to handle the cleaning jobs that are too nasty and dangerous for you to want to tackle. Our team is trained in the use of using the proper cleaning techniques and products, wearing the proper protection against hazardous waste, and making your home look “Like it never even happened.”

Our team is ready to help clean your biohazard messes throughout Eastern South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Minnesota!

Heavy Rains in Eastern South Dakota

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

Flooded office basement

After a summer that has been dominated by drought, South Dakotans on the eastern half of the state finally got some relief. After some lighter rain earlier in the week, some areas of Eastern South Dakota received well over an inch of rain, with some spots seeing as much as 3 inches in a day! Not only was this a great relief for the many agricultural professionals in our state, but for those of us sick of paying high water bills to keep our lawns alive!

However, not all is positive after a big rain event like this. When we see rain amounts that high in a day, oftentimes we will see sump pump backups, sewer backups, and water entering homes through cracks in foundations. But, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to help you out! Our team of IICRC certified technicians is standing by at the ready to help you get your home or business back to normal! We can’t control the weather or when water losses happen, but that is why we are standing by 24/7 to be ready to help whenever its needed!

Hail storm in SIoux Falls

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Roof pockmarked with hail damage.

If you live in the Sioux Falls area, their is a good chance you were woken up in the early hours of July 9th by hail hitting your roof and siding. As a property owner, whether it be a home or a vehicle, the sound of hail falling can be very stressful. 

As the weather has cleared and you have an opportunity to assess any potential damage, be sure to safely examine your roof and siding for any damage. Damage caused by hail can leave the interior of your home susceptible to future water damage. 

If the hail damaged your home enough to tear siding or rip off shingles, there is a chance you may have received some water damage in your home. If you find any moisture in your home, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is just a phone call away at 605-213-3303

Fireworks Safety Tips

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls logo laid over fireworks display.

We are in the heat of the summer and our favorite summer holiday is right around the corner. We love to celebrate the 4th of July here at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls. And who doesn’t love seeing the joy on the faces of young ones as the fireworks dance across the sky?

As the 4th of July is basically the only time of year that fireworks are legally allowed to be used by amateurs, the risk for fires in the home greatly increases during this time of year. We want to provide you with a few simple tips to keep you, your family, and your home safe!

Fireworks Safety Tips:

• Do not let young children to handle fireworks. Even sparklers can be dangerous as they can burn at temperatures around 2,000 Degrees Fahrenheit.
• Don’t use fireworks while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
• Never hold lit fireworks in your hand.
• Be a safe distance away from any structures that could catch fire.
• Do not point or throw fireworks at other nearby.

Mold growth from Humidity

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Visible mold growth on corner of basement wall.

Depending on where you live in the United States, on top of heat during the summer, you may be experiencing a little bit of humidity. If you’re reading this in Southeastern South Dakota, you are nodding along. In our part of the world, we are very familiar with humidity. As our air conditioning units struggle to keep up with our cooling demands, its important to also focus on other things that may be caused by the humidity.

On a recent estimate for mold, while inspecting an evident mold growth, our technician noticed a small seam in the basement wall of a small home being used as an office. When their is no obvious source of water damage, we believe moisture and humidity are seeping in through the foundation, providing the perfect conditions for mold to grow.

Take the time to inspect the dark and sometimes damp corners of your home. Garages, utility rooms, etc. You may not spend a lot of time in these rooms, but often they may be areas where moisture can be present. If you do find something you would like inspected, please call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303!

Hail Damage

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Pockmarks on shingles caused by hail damage.

Thankfully, our summer so far has been devoid of any storms that have caused heavy property damage. In a typical summer in South Dakota, you may see thunderstorms, hail, and even tornadoes! Today we would like to talk about hail and the damage it can do to your home.

For those unfamiliar with the phenomenon, hail is formed when droplets of water in the upper atmosphere combine and freeze together. Hail falls from the sky when the updrafts of the thunderstorm can no longer support the weight. The size of hailstones can very from smaller than a marble, up to the size of a softball! If you can imagine someone pelting softballs down at your home from hundreds of feet up in the air, you can start to picture the kind of damage that hail can cost.

Depending on other factors such as wind, hail may fall in a vertical fashion, or it can be buffeted around, falling almost sideways. This can cause the roofing and siding of your home to be stripped, as well as even puncturing holes in the structure of your home. If shingles and siding are stripped away, this can lead to water damage in your home as any rain after a hailstorm could easily get in your home. That’s where SERVPRO of Sioux Falls comes in. Our team is standing by 24/7 to respond to storm damage in the area. If your home was damaged by hail, our team can arrive and provide emergency services such as boarding up damage to prevent further damage to the interior of the home, or water extraction if water was able to get in to your home. When an emergency happens, We’re Here to Help!

Teapot Days 2021

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our Marketing department taking a selfie to show the crowd at the Teapot Days parade!

After taking last year off due to the global pandemic, residents and businesses all over Tea were able to celebrate Teapot Days again in 2021! Teapot Days is a multi-day celebration of everything this wonderful community of ours has to offer. An opportunity for businesses such as SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to be able to promote their services while having fun with community members.

Festivities kicked off mid-week with a blood drive and community picnic. An excellent opportunity to catch up with people we hadn’t seen in quite some time, while also donating blood and giving back to the community.

Friday brought the carnival for all ages to town. It was great to see so many smiling and laughing faces. In the evening a section of downtown was blocked off for a street dance.

On Saturday, our team got lined up to throw candy to the hundreds of citizens lining the streets of tea for the parade. What a turnout! After the parade, the community got to enjoy the carnival, food trucks, live music, and the end of the evening fireworks display!

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls was so happy to be back celebrating our wonderful community!

Spending time with the Realtor’s Association of the Sioux Empire

6/22/2021 (Permalink)

Our Marketing employee Josh waiting to give a presentation to the realtors of the Sioux Empire.

As SERVPRO of Sioux Falls works in customer’s homes as well as their businesses, we aim to have strong relationships with the realtors in our area. This morning, we got the opportunity to sponsor a continuing education class put on by the Realtor’s Association of the Sioux Empire (RASE). RASE is a wonderful organization that provides resources and continuing education for its many members in the Sioux Falls area.

Our marketing department got the opportunity to speak to the attendees for a short time before the class actually started. Our team will stay behind for the day to answer questions and inform during breaks and lunch.

Events like these are wonderful opportunities for our staff to get in front of area realtors, who can be very hard to pin down right now with the market moving like it is! We want to be a source of knowledge for realtors and their clients, while also being Here to Help whenever something goes awry with them to their clients!

Summer Safety Series: High Temperatures

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

When the temps get this high, take note and be safe!

As South Dakotans, we are pretty familiar with temperatures in the 90’s and low 100’s. However, we don’t typically reach these highs until August! As soon as June started, the temperatures began to rise. After nearly a week of temps over 90 degrees, and with no sign of stopping in the near future, you may be ready to give up on summer already!

We know it’s hot out, but don’t give up hope quite yet! We have put together a handful of tips to help you stay safe with the heat:

• Hydration, Hydration, Hydration! Being properly hydrated is important always, but particularly during heat spells like the one we are going through. Drink plenty of water and drinks that can replenish your electrolytes. Avoiding sugary drinks such as soda and juice.
• Don’t be afraid to take a break! We know its great to be out enjoying the sunshine, and it can be difficult to get the kids out of the pool. But, when temperatures are this high, it is wise to take scheduled breaks, indoors preferably, but at least in the shade out of the direct sunlight. 
• Cooling techniques. Keep wet towels in your cooler. These can be a good resource for quickly cooling down your neck/head. 
• Look for and know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke: Heavy Sweating, Tiredness, Dizziness, Pale Skin Color, Headaches, Muscle Cramps, Nausea.

All of us at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls hope you have a safe, exciting, and wonderful summer!

Freshen up your home

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee cleaning the ducts of a large commercial property in Sioux Falls.

With everything in full bloom in the late spring, you probably have your home opened up, enjoying the fresh air before it becomes air conditioner season. You’re likely enjoying the sweet smells of flowers and vegetation. If you would like to keep that sense of freshness going, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can help!

Booking a duct cleaning with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can help in a multitude of ways. For people with allergy sensitivities, a duct cleaning is a great way to remove excess dust and other particles from your home and HVAC system. Removing dust also helps you keep your home clean as debris that typically circulates through the home will be removed. 

A good duct cleaning can remove weird smells from your HVAC system, while at the same time improving efficiency and potentially saving you money on your utility bill.

Call 605-213-3303 to schedule yours today!

Classifications of Water Damage

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Overflowing toilet in Sioux Falls area home.

As a provider of water damage cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has just about seen it all when it comes to water damage. As experienced experts in cleaning up after a water loss, we have seen water damage from just about every source, including ground water, water supply lines, and sewer backups. With water damage coming from multiple sources, the restoration industry has set guidelines for the classification of water damage categories.

Category 1 Water Damage: Clean Water Source

This would be the best case scenario for a water loss in your home. A category 1 water loss stems from a source of clean water such as a water supply line or an overflow from a sink. As this water is sewage and toxin free, a loss with Category 1 water damage is the easiest to treat. Depending on the materials affected, SERVPRO can often dry the structure in place with minimal demolition.

Category 2 Water Damage: Grey Water Source

A category 2 water loss can come from sources such as a washing machine or toilet. These sources may not always contain toxins or harmful pathogens, but as the source is not from a clean water supply line, appropriate steps must be taken with regards to disinfection. Most materials will be able to be dried in place without demolition, but will need to be treated with the proper disinfectant.

Category 3 Water Damage: Black Water Source

A category 3 water loss is from a source of water than is grossly contaminated. Black water can contain pathogens, bacteria, and fungi. A common source of a category 3 water loss would be as sewage line backup. Other sources such as flooding or ground water may occur. When your home has been effected by a category 3 water loss, it is important to call a professional like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls immediately to begin the extraction and decontamination of the affected areas to minimalist health effects. When contents and structures, such as carpet and pad, are affected with Black Water, they need to be replaced.

Water Damage in Sioux Falls Hotel

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

Strategically placed SERVPRO drying equipment being used on a commercial water loss in a Sioux Falls are hotel.

Bright and early Saturday morning, 5:00 AM to be exact, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls received a call from a high-end hotel in Sioux Falls. A customer had placed an item of clothing up to hang on the in-room sprinkler system. Outside of  attacking plumbing with a wrench, this is the best recipe for causing water damage in a hotel.

Despite the customer ignoring the signs to not hang anything on the sprinkler, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls was able to quickly respond on scene. As water damage removal and mold prevention are time sensitive, SERVPRO franchises operate on a 24/7 basis for emergency work.

While you may be experiencing stress and confusion when you have water damage in the middle of the night, let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls and our certified technicians take the stress away from the situation. We will respond to your home or business as fast as we can to begin the cleanup!  

Summer Storms

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

Stunning photo of tornado-producing storm in South Dakota.

In a Spring with minimal rainfall for the Sioux Falls area, storms are probably the farthest thing from your mind. Why worry about storms when its time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather! Well, as cleanup after storms is one of the things we do best, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is always thinking about storms! Not hoping for them, but being prepared for them. Our team is always working on the best way to serve our customers, and this includes the planning of a response to a large storm event in the area, such as the Sioux Falls area tornadoes in 2019.

As most South Dakotans know, summer storms can be unpredictable, sudden, and violent. Preparation is the key for making it through the summer storm season. Have plans made with your family for different scenarios. For instance, where to go in the home in the event of a tornado, or where to meet up after the storm has passed. Having essentials such as bottled water and canned food is always a good idea in the event that a storm knocks the power off at your home.

As you begin to work on your family’s preparations for the storm season, know that SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by to help you after the storm! 

Tracking, Packing, and Cleaning Contents

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee overseeing packing of contents damaged by smoke and soot.

Many folks assume that when you have a fire in your home, the smoke and soot damage is too great and you must dispose of all of your possessions. A common misconception that we run in to with our clients. Boy are they thrilled when they learn the SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has the ability to clean and restore their most treasured family possessions.

The contents cleaning process begins with a cataloging of items that can be salvaged and restored. Our teams carefully pack each item and tag the box with a bar code that communicates with our internal software, allowing us to easily keep track of your possessions.

After everything has been logged and boxed, our team will carefully transport your items back to our shop where we have the space, products, and equipment to get your possessions cleaned and restored.

The cleaning process varies from item to item. Some require detailed cleaning by hand, while other items, such as dishes and glass wear, we are able to utilize our state of the art UltraSonic cleaning system. No matter what we need to do, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help restore your home and your valuables!

We handle the mess when you can’t!

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO crew in protective Tyvek suits cleaning a basement for a customer.

Why choose SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to help you with your residential cleaning needs? Because we can handle the jobs that are too big for you! 

Often times, we are contacted by customers after they have attempted to start a large cleaning project and realize the job is too much for them to handle. These jobs can include cleaning out a relative’s home to prepare for a move or to downsize. Another typical call we receive is a call for assistance in cleaning out the home of a hoarder. These jobs can be very emotional for the involved parties. We have experience in making the process as painless as possible for everyone involved. 

With our extensive training and proprietary cleaning chemicals, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is well equipped for whatever cleaning job you can come up with! From a carpet clean, to a biohazard cleanup, SERVPRO is here to help!

Move Out Cleaning

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Basement filled with garbage and debris

Our team was recently contacted by a customer who needed the basement of their parent’s home cleaned so they could make preparations for the sale of the home. 

After an initial inspection, our production manager realized it will be a big, multi-faceted job. The basement was not taken care of and random garbage was mixed in throughout items that can be cleaned and saved. So on top of throwing out unnecessary items, our team will not be cataloging certain contents to bring back to our cleaning station and restoring for the customer! 

After we had got a few sections of the basement clean, our crew noticed some mold growth on the lower sections of the wall and decided to begin mitigating the mold damage after consulting with clients.

Jobs like this happen frequently with SERVPRO. We may be called in for one thing and recognize another issue that needs addressing. We want to be your go to for any damage in your home. If we can’t restore it, our re-construction team can certainly rebuild it to your specifications! 

Mold Remodel

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth on drywall

A customer contacted SERVPRO of Sioux Falls this week while in the middle of a kitchen remodel. Upon removing a set of cabinets, the customer found a fairly extensive mold colony on the wall that had been covered up by the cabinet. 

They immediately placed a call to our team to get the issue sorted out quickly so their remodel could continue. After performing an estimate on the same day that we received the call, the customer agreed to our scope of work and we began the process of remediating the mold in the home. 

Our team loaded up on fungicide and got to work. We decided to remove a small portion of drywall as the mold was extensive and had grown through to the backside. After completion, our reconstruction crew got to work replacing the drywall! A total job process of three days got the homeowners back on track with their remodel. 

Water Damage in Rural Minnesota

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying equipment in place

Our team was recently called out to rural Minnesota to help on a water loss stemming from a plumbing error. Within four hours of receiving the call we had a crew on site beginning the initial walk through and mitigation. 

The damage incurred was in two rooms, one above the other. The bathroom upstairs had an issue with a toilet valve and had sprayed water for hours before the homeowner got home to find the damage. As water follows the path of least resistance, it had seeped from the bathroom upstairs to the bathroom below it. 

After some initial demolition to open up wall cavities, our team began the work of placing our specialty drying equipment throughout the affected rooms. We were able to dry out the customer’s home with minimal reconstruction, even drying and saving the newly installed flooring in the upstairs bathroom! 

Mobile Contents Cleaning

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Damage and debris after fire in home

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls was contacted last week by another SERVPRO franchise to assist them on the cleanup and restoration of a home damaged by fire. We were asked to handle the contents cleaning portion of the job. Our team loaded up on our cleaning equipment and products, including our state of the art Ultrasonic cleaning system. 

After the five hour drive and getting settled in to the hotel, our team arrived on site the next morning to start the process of cleaning contents. 

Contents cleaning is a very delicate job, both in that you may be handling delicate and precious items, and delicate in the sense that the trauma after a fire can be very emotional for the homeowner. Our team worked a week straight, cleaning and salvaging everything they could, much to the satisfaction of the homeowner! 

Smoke and Soot get everywhere!

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage on wall that was covered with decorations.

Our fire damage mitigation team recently responded to a residential smoke and soot cleanup job in Sioux Falls, and quickly realized the massive effort it would take to clean up after this small fire. Upon inspection, our team realized they would have their hands full with cleaning contents. The customer we were helping collected posters and other knickknacks from traveling and had every inch of the walls in the basement covered. The smoke and soot damage wasn’t entirely evident until they started removing items for cleaning. As you can see in the photo, smoke and soot can get everywhere. Even though a surface may be covered, if there is enough space for air to move, there is enough space for smoke to cause damage! 

Restoring your valuables after a fire

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Before and After photos of possession’s cleaned after a fire in Sioux Falls.

A structure fire in your family home is a very traumatic experience. You may be forced to leave your home while cleaning and repairs are completed. Displacement can be difficult, but especially difficult when you don’t have access to your possessions and valuables. 

You may think that your possessions may not be salvageable after a fire and you must purchase new items. This is not the case! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is experienced in the cleaning of contents damaged by smoke and soot. After arriving on the scene of a house fire, our team will salvage and pack out any contents you may wish to save. Using our proprietary line of SERVPRO cleaning products and our state of the art Ultrasonic cleaning machine, our team is able to clean your salvageable contents! From leather couches to electronics, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to help with your contents cleaning! 

Do you have mold in your home or business?

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth found under air vent cover in a Sioux Falls home.

Mold spores are constantly around us both indoors and outdoors. They are carried by the wind as well as on our clothing. However, just because mold spores are constantly present, that does not mean that you have a mold growth that can become a problem. There are a few tell-tale signs to look for when you think you may have a mold growth in your home or business.

• The first and most obvious is a visible mold growth. Mold can come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Common signs include a fuzzy appearance and the colors of white, green, or black.
• Another big sign of an active mold growth is a musty smell in the affected room. A smell of dampness that doesn’t seem to dissipate.
• Damp areas or past water damage that was not properly dried.
• An uptick on health effects that are irregular.

Mold needs three items to grow in your home of business:

1. Water: Mold needs a source of moisture to grow. This is can be a constant source of water such as a leaky pipe, or it can be a damp spot on your drywall that received water damage that was not properly dried.
2. Oxygen: This is the food source that we really can’t work on preventing. If there is a room in your home or business that is not oxygenated, you may have some bigger problems.
3. Food source: A food source for a mold colony includes basically any organic material such as wood or drywall.

If you believe you may have a mold growth in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls for a free estimate in the Sioux Falls area! 605-213-3303

Here for your commercial restoration needs!

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees and vehicles on a commercial job site.

When a disaster strikes your business, are you ready with a plan to respond? At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we are! Nobody can predict when a fire will start or your overhead sprinkler system could fail, causing quite a bit of damage in your business. This unpredictability is one of the reasons SERVPRO franchises are standing by 24/7 ready to help you and your business recover after a disaster. Another reason for the standby emergency service is to be able to help our commercial customers begin the process of restoring their property and getting their business back to normal operating processes as quickly as possible. 

On top of our emergency services, one of the primary benefits of working with a SERVPRO franchise is the Commercial Large Loss Division and the Disaster Recovery team. When a natural disaster occurs, such as the 2019 tornadoes in Sioux Falls, SERVPRO is able to mobilize highly trained teams with the necessary capability to handle any size of loss! 

Multi-Floor Damage

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Removed portion of basement ceiling due to damage from water source on main floor.

We recently received a call from a customer that had a water line in their refrigerator burst. Unfortunately, the water took the path of least resistance, as water does, and leaked down into the ceiling and walls of the basement. By the time the customer knew something was wrong, the damage had been done. 

But, the story doesn’t end there! Our team promptly arrived and began the process of assessing the damage and calculating the proper amount of equipment needed to adequately dry the affected structures and materials. After letting the fans and dehumidifiers work for a day, our team returned the next day to begin the necessary demolition process. Once that process is complete and our drying standard has been met, our team can begin the process of replacing the drywall and other affected materials! 

The best way to minimize the damage from a water loss is to promptly have the damage assessed and treated by a restoration company. That’s why us at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls are on call 24/7 to help you handle emergencies in your home! 

Improper drying can lead to mold growth

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth found in closet of Sioux Falls area home

Imagine a scenario where your water heater malfunctioned and led to a small water loss in your utility room. You may not have even known there were such things as restoration companies, so you decided to place a couple of fans and dry it out yourself. The room has concrete floor, you tell yourself, there can’t be too much damage. After a few days of running fans, the area looks dry to you. 

Fast forward two months as you go to your utility room to grab supplies and you notice a funky-colored growth on the drywall behind your water heater. Mold? How did this get here?

Most likely, water from the damaged water heater seeped up in to your dry wall and was not properly dried. This presence of moisture acted as a fuel to promote the growth of mold. 

What do you do now? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls! Not only do we do mold remediation, we are the company to call when you have a water loss in your home! Proper drying after water damage goes hand in hand with preventing mold growth. For a company who excels in both, call SERVPRO!

Water Damage in a Furniture Store

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls equipment ready for pickup after completing the drying process.

In the midst of record breaking low temperatures that affected nearly the entire nation, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls received a number of calls stemming from a burst pipe. We answered the call for both residential and commercial customers. Our biggest job during the freeze was from a burst pipe in a home furniture store over in Marshall, Minnesota. After receiving the initial call, we mobilized two teams with our vehicles packed full of air movers and dehumidifiers to head over and help out. 

First Steps

Upon arrival, our team began the process of moving affected materials and got started on the extraction process. Proper drying cannot be completed without first extracting as much water as possible before placing drying equipment. On our first day there, we extracted over 7,000 lbs of water from the furniture store! 

Placing Equipment

After the extraction was complete, we strategically placed our air movers and dehumidifiers in a fashion that created an optimal drying chamber. After placing equipment, we returned back to the shop to prepare for monitoring the next day. 

Monitor and Adjust

Upon our return to the furniture store, our mitigation team took and recorded a number of atmospheric measurements, such as temperature and humidity, to check the progress of the drying process. After recording measurements, it was time to make some slight adjustments to our equipment and let them do their magic. 

Final Step: Creating a Happy Customer!

After repeating the monitoring process one more day, our team was able to achieve the dry standard we had set out to achieve. Our quick response and knowledge of the drying process allowed the business to remain open throughout the entire process! Our customers were thrilled with the work we did, and creating happy customers is our main goal! 

If your business experiences water or fire related damage, please call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303! We are standing by, ready to travel, to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO at the Home Show!

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls display at Sioux Empire Home Show.

We look forward to the last weekend in February every year. Not only does it signify that Spring is near, but the Sioux Empire Home Builders Association hosts its annual Sioux Empire Home Show. The home show provides businesses such as SERVPRO of Sioux Falls the opportunity to get in to direct contact with as many area homeowners as possible. It is a wonderful event that allows us to not only showcase the services we provide, but how we are able to differentiate ourselves from our competitors in the area.

We always get plenty of great questions from homeowners and we look forward to helping them understand why choosing SERVPRO is the way to go! If you did not make it this year, we hope to be able to see you next year! 

What to do with Standing Water in your home

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Standing water in flooded home

After the cold weather has passed and the thaw has begun, you may be noticing some unpleasant changes in your basement. Are you seeing damp spots on the walls? Are there cracks appearing in the mortar joints of your cinder blocks? A wet basement can be a real concern for home and business owners.

A water loss that produces standing water can be a breeding ground for some pretty nasty bacterias and fungi. Typically, when standing water from a water loss is found in a home, it is usually in the basement or lower levels of a home. The first thing you want to do is turn off any electricity that may be connected to the affected area. The safety of you and everyone around you is the number one priority! Now, leave the rest to us at SERVPRO. We will clean up the standing water and anything affected by it! We are here to make it "Like it never even happened." So, make SERVPRO your first call for broken pipes, flooding, leaky foundation, gutter problems and more! We are here to help get your home back. The best course of action when you experience a water loss in your home is to call a professional restoration company like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

How often should I have my carpets cleaned?

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Employees cleaning carpet

Getting your carpets cleaned is a lovely refresher for your home. The natural bounce of the carpet picks up a bit and your home feels more fresh and clean. Unfortunately, we often forget about getting our carpets cleaned as our daily lives can get busy or hectic. Who has time to rent a carpet cleaning machine and set aside the time to use it when you’re running kids to appointments and practices. There is no magic number to how often your carpets should be professionally cleaned. Some people say one to two times a year. Really it depends on the type of traffic in your home. Pets and kids running around? Family member with a bad habit of leaving their shoes on in the home? You might want to consider getting your carpets done twice a year. Want to not worry about it at all and have a team of professionals take it off your hands? Well, you’re in luck!

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is trained in using hot water extraction techniques to clean your carpets and bring new life in to them! Whether the job calls for a portable unit or our more powerful truck mounted system, SERVPRO has the tools and the know how to get the job done right!

Frigid temps ahead, be on the lookout for frozen pipes!

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Exterior pipe covered with ice

If you’re not a fan of winter and cold temperatures, you may just want to avoid any prognostications for the Sioux Falls area and bunker down inside. After what has been a relatively mild winter, the area is expected to be hit with very low temperatures and a biting wind chill. As temperatures will top out in the single digits, the wind chill is expected to be as low as -30.

What does this mean for you?

With extreme cold like this, we recommend stocking up on supplies and then hunkering down inside. Avoid the outdoors as much as possible. When wind chills are as low as -20, frostbite can occur within as little as ten minutes of exposure. If you do need to venture outside, make sure you are properly bundled up and wearing multiple layers to increase heat retention.

What does this mean for my home?

As a homeowner, it is important to know about risks to your home when temperatures drop as low as expected. We recommend keeping your home at 65 degrees at the minimum to avoid any issues with plumbing and frozen pipes. A burst pipe from frozen piping is one of the biggest issues to try to avoid when the temperatures get this low. The plumbing most at risk are pipes that are in under-insulated areas such as along exterior walls or under a crawl space. If you are able to access these areas, you can put foam insulation around the pipes to help them retain heat. It is also helpful to run water through your pipes at least hourly. Also, know where your water main shutoff is so you can shut off the flow if you do experience a burst pipe.

Should you have any damage from a burst pipe, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls anytime, day or night. We are standing by 24/7 to help you with emergencies in your home or business! 605-213-3303

First steps after a fire

1/22/2021 (Permalink)

Damage in Sioux Falls home after a fire

After experiencing a house fire it is common to feel overwhelmed, stressed, worried and have increased feelings of uncertainty. A house fire can be a terrifying experience, especially for children and pets. After the fire is extinguished and everyone is deemed safe, one of the first things to do is call your insurance agent. They will get the fire damage claims process started for you. You will need to find a safe and comfortable place to stay, even if it is for one night. Your insurance agent should be able to help you with this, as your policy likely includes provisions for lodgings if you have been displaced. Once you have shelter, you can begin to get a plan in place and give you and your family time to rest. After helping you secure lodging and any necessary items such as clothing, your agent will begin the process of restoration in your home. When you reach this stage, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7 to help. We are able to provide emergency board up services and begin the cleaning and removal of smoke and soot. We know the stresses that can come with a fire in your home, and we want to help you recover, every step along the way.

Number one cause of fires in the home?

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Fire blazing in kitchen

There are many potential causes of fires in the home. From faulty wiring to an appliance failure, issues can arise suddenly.

#1 Cause of fires in the home:

The most frequent cause of house fires is unattended cooking!

Now that we know the most frequent source of fires in the home, here are some tips to help stay safe.

• Be sure to stay in the room while cooking with a heat source. Keeping an eye on your cooking will help you be prepared for any accidents.
• It is also important to use a timer while cooking so you don’t lose track of time.
• Vigilance in the kitchen is particularly important during the holidays when cooking and baking more than you usually do.
• Even while cooking with precautions, accidents can happen. Be sure to have  fire extinguishers throughout your home. Be sure you are properly educated on the use of a fire extinguisher to be prepared in the event that you have to use one.

Should you experience a fire in your home, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7 to help you through an emergency! 

Most Frequent mold strain

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Mold growth spreading across walls in Sioux Falls home

The most common mold found throughout homes is known as Alternaria.  Alternaria mold tends to grow where ever dampness occurs, which can come from a variety of sources in your home. Mold can grow just about anywhere and Can be very difficult to prevent. No matter how clean your home may be it will always contain invisible mold spores. But don’t fret! Mold is most commonly found in bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.

The ten most common sources of moisture that can aid mold growth in your home are:

1. Persistent humidity
2. Leaky pipes in the home
3. Leaking roof
4. Build up of condensation
5. Poor ventilation in your home
6. Wet and Damp Clothing
7. Home flooding
8. Damp basement
9. Foundational leak  
10. Leaking or condensation from an A/C System. 

If you’re looking for a Mold Remediation Specialist, Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303! We will make that pesky mold growth in your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Mold on the Move

1/19/2021 (Permalink)

Visible mold in air ducts

A mold growth in your HVAC unit can be a nuisance for you and your family. As our HVAC systems move air continuously throughout the home, this too means mold spores in the system are being moved throughout your home. Mold can harm our respiratory system in a number of ways. Not sure if you have mold present in your HVAC system? Here are some potential signs:

• Visual Signs: Fortunately, some mold may be easy to spot and can give you a definitive answer. Check the spots of your HVAC system that you can easily see regularly. This includes around the furnace and A/C units, as well is any intake or outflow vents. For some examples of what mold can look like, please visit our photo gallery.
• Odors: Pay attention for any odors you don’t normally sense around your home. Oftentimes mold can give off a musty scent as it thrives with sufficient moisture.
• Symptoms: If you or anyone in your home is noticing persistent respiratory issues or increased severity of allergies, mold could potentially be the culprit.

What should you do if you believe you have mold in your HVAC system?

Our recommendation would be to call a mold remediation company as well as a company that can clean ducts. It just so happens, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is equipped to help with both! With our industry experience in both areas, we will be able to help you get your home back to tip-top shape.

Avoid costly water damage

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage on sub-flooring

As this picture clearly shows, it is very easy for a water loss to seep through your flooring and cause damage to the sub-flooring beneath. Damage to sub-flooring can be very costly and can lead to the growth of mold if not properly dried and treated.

The key to avoiding this is locating the source and stopping it. Sometimes you will be able to find the source and make the necessary correction. Other times, say maybe a burst pipe in a non-visible location in your home, you may need to contact a plumber for their assistance in stopping the source of the loss.

After stopping the source, your next course of action should be to call a professional water damage restoration company such as SERVPRO of Sioux Falls! We operate  24/7 for emergency water losses and aim to be at your home helping as fast as possible. We will extract any water and begin the drying process using items such as our air movers and dehumidifiers. We recommend using a professional restoration company as an incorrectly dried flooring surface can lead to mold growth or a number of other potentially costly issues.

SERVPRO gives back

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls team presenting donation to Tea Volunteer Fire Department

This past fall the Tea Volunteer Fire Department had to put off hosting their annual dueling pianos community fundraiser. To show our appreciation for the hard work and selflessness these volunteers provide, we decided to put together a fundraiser. 

We partnered with a local realtor to solicit donations from local businesses in the community as well as some generous private donors. The support from the community was overwhelming! We had over twenty local businesses donate an item to be raffled off. We also partnered with six different local businesses to act as host locations for the community to purchase tickets at. 

The support from the community went beyond our wildest dreams! We were able to present the Tea Volunteer Fire Department with over $11,000 in donations from the Tea Community! 

The whole process was very rewarding for the whole SERVPRO of Sioux Falls team and we look forward to helping out the community in the future!

Water-Damaged wood flooring

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

Wood flooring that has buckled from water damage.

No matter the flooring you have in your home, water damage can be a real pain. Fortunately, SERVPRO has different technologies and different techniques to extract and dry out any water damage in your home. 

On a recent call, our crew responded to a water loss where a dishwasher had been slowly leaking for a couple days. The kitchen and dining room area that was affected by the loss had very nice wood flooring. Upon arrival we were able to begin the extraction and drying process quickly enough to avoid any permanent damage such as warping or buckling. 

A quick response to water damage  is key in minimizing the damage to your home. That’s why SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7 to quickly respond to emergencies in your home! 

Mold in your dream home!

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

Mold under cover of air vent

Depending on the market and what you are looking for, the home buying process can be either exciting or excruciating. You have to have a keen eye on homes coming on to the market and have trust in your realtor that they are looking for what suits your needs. 

After countless tours and maybes, you’ve finally found your dream home! You put an offer in and are now waiting on the home inspection. Everything looks great until you see the inspector found a few spots of mold in the utility room in the basement. Don’t worry though, it’s not the end of the world! SERVPRO can help!

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls we are well-versed in the remediation of mold. We offer free local estimates, aimed to be returned within two days of the inspection. We know the home-buying process can be on a strict timetable so we aim to perform our work as efficiently and effectively as possible to make your dream home your home!

Realtors: We can help your client with the closing process!

12/28/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growing in closet of Sioux Falls home

As a realtor, customer service and doing everything you can for your client to differentiate yourself from your competitors is an important part of the business. As we all know, the closing process of buying a home can go smoothly or it can be a headache for all involved. 

We want to assist you in making the process as smooth as possible for your client! As a local leader in the cleaning and restoration industry, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is equipped and prepared to help your clients with a variety of issues in their home! 

Whether your client needs a carpet cleaning, a duct cleaning, or there is a pesky mold issue that popped up during the home inspection process, our team of technicians is standing by to quickly respond and resolve issues for your client! 

Fire Danger around the Holidays

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire in Sioux Falls

A fire in the home can be a traumatic experience for everyone involved. With Christmas quickly approaching it is good to remember that the risk of fires in the home are generally higher during the winter months. There are various things this time of year to be cautious of to keep your home fire free. We have compiled a list of the most common causes of fires in the home around the holidays and winter months:

1. Cooking- Distractions can pull you away from the kitchen, leaving food material susceptible to burning.
2. Candles- Candles should be extinguished if you are leaving the room.
3. Christmas trees- An improperly cared for tree can dry quickly and be prone to combustion.
4. Holiday Lights- Frayed wires or electrical issues can cause fires in the home. 
5. Space Heaters- Improper use or having the heater set near combustible materials can cause fires.

If you experience a fire make SERVPRO your first call. We understand the value of your possessions,  and our team will work  hard to bring life back into your home or business after a fire. As the local leaders in cleanup and restoration after a fire, let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls help you get your home back.

Fire Cleanup & Restoration Process: Board up and Contents Cleaning

12/16/2020 (Permalink)

Items before and after smoke and soot removal.

One of the biggest disruptions to daily life can be a fire in the home. After the flames are out, the cleaning and restoration work should begin immediately. While some projects around the home can be completed without the aid of a business, dealing with fire damage in the home should be done with the help of a business like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

From the start of the project until the finish, we are there to help you along the way. Upon initial arrival at the damaged home, we can begin the cleanup process by boarding up any necessary areas and starting to organize and load up contents. It is a common belief that items affected by smoke or soot are not salvageable. This is an incorrect line of thinking. At SERVPRO, we have the knowledge and the resources to clean and restore many of your belongings. We will track and log all items that we remove from your home, letting you know which items are unsalvageable and which ones we can clean. Using our Ultrasonic cleaning machine and detailed hand-cleaning procedures, we will have your items back to you in the best condition possible.

Common sources of water damage in the home

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

Burst pipe spraying water in to living room of home.

Water damage in your home or business can be frightening and stressful. The top five causes of water damage in the home are:

1. Leaking or burst pipes

2. Plumbing issues

3. Backup from clogged gutters

4. Storm Damage

5. Sewage backups

Most of these are preventable through simple and regular upkeep of your home.
Obviously, damage from storms or sewage is out of our hands. The first step after noticing you have a water loss is to shut off the water in your home until you can determine where the issue is. The next step is to call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls! A timely response is the most important factor in successfully mitigating water damage and preventing the growth of mold. Even in rooms that were not directly affected by the loss, high moisture content will increase the chances for mold to grow and in time this mold can affect the structure of your house. At SERVPRO, we aim to quickly extract the water in your home, dry out the affected area, and reduce moisture levels to make that water loss in your home “Like it never even happened.”

Removing Vaping Residue from your Sioux Falls Home

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Residue from vaping viewed under black light

As many folks have turned to vaping to get off of their smoking habit, some people assume that vaping does not leave a residue in your home as the material is vaporized rather than combusted, as is the traditional method with nicotine consumption.

While it may not leave the signature yellow tinge or odor of cigarette smoke, vaping can still leave residue clinging to the surfaces of your home. In this instance we used a black light to highlight for the home owner the residue left behind. As you can see in the photo, while not always visible to the untrained eye, vaping indoors does leave a residue behind.

As your premiere local cleaning company, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to help remove those stains from your walls! With our industry leading cleaning products created in-house, we can clean up any home “Like it never even happened.”

Red Stain Removal

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Glass of red wine spilled on carpet.

As we walk on them daily, carpets are bound to get dirty. It’s simply a fact of life. While we know that carpets will get dirty and wear, we still remain vigilant and try to refrain from spilling foods and liquids on our carpet. However, nobody is perfect, and eventually you will spill something on your carpet. One of the most difficult stains to remove from carpet is a stain that stems from a source with red coloring, such as red wine or cranberry juice.

Carpet Care Experts

Should you spill a big glass of red wine on your carpet over the holiday season this year, don’t worry! SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to help! With our years of experience in the industry and the access to SERVPRO’s proprietary internally-developed cleaning solutions, we can make that red wine stain “Like it never even happened.”

Winter Storms are on the way, are you prepared?

12/10/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storm conditions

With Winter weather SLOWLY approaching take the time to be sure your house is prepared for winter storms. Freezing weather can cause various problems throughout your home. Frozen pipes are one of the most common problems when temperatures start to drop. Typically, your home's pipes begin to freeze when the outside temperature is atleast 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Frozen pipes are at risk of rupturing, leading to serious leaks and flooding throughout your home or business causing increased damage.

If you are expecting a storm in your area or a drop in temperature, it is always smart to be prepared for the worst. Basic preparation such as having a family emergency plan, stocking a basic emergency kit, and understanding your insurance policy will help you to be prepared for any damage that may occur. 

Don’t let damage shut down your business!

12/8/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded office space in Sioux Falls.

It’s the middle of December, your business is rocking the holiday rush.  The community has banded together to support local businesses like yours. Optimism is high and it seems like nothing can go wrong. Unfortunately, you come in to your shop to open up one morning and find water dripping down onto your merchandise form the ceiling. The unthinkable has happened and effected your business at the busiest time of the year.

Don’t panic! SERVPRO is Here to Help! With our 24/7 readiness, we are standing by waiting to respond to the emergency in your business! Whether its a fire, a flood, or you need an emergency disinfection of your business, we thrive on quickly responding to your business emergency. We understand the importance of having your business open. Every minute spent with your doors closed is a minute spent not generating revenue for your business. In some instances, you may not even need to close your shop! Depending on the size and category of damage, we have the capability to set up containment around the affected area so as to allow your business to stay open and work around the affected space.

If you’re Sioux Falls area business is impacted by fire, water, mold, or any other type of damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls. We can be reached at 605-213-3303 at anytime, day or night!

All About Mold

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

Black Mold growth in Sioux Falls home

Did you know that there are over 100,000 strains of mold! Keep in mind not all types of mold are a threat, some are benign while some are even used in medicinal treatments.

TYPES OF MOLD

Some of the most common types of molds we come across are Aspergillus,  Chaetomium, and Stachybotrys Atra (commonly known as black mold). Each strain has its own characteristics and can affect humans in different ways. Due to possible effects on health, it is important to remediate mold in your Sioux Falls area home. The most common areas to keep an eye out for mold in your home are basements & cellars, under or around sinks, and behind walls that also house plumbing.

Prevention Tips:

• To help prevent mold in your house be sure to make sure the humidity level is below 60, with the recommended range between 30-60.
• Dry items completely before storing them.
• Repair Leaks. Responding quickly and treating the source of a leak is crucial to preventing mold growth.
• Use methods to improve the airflow throughout your home. For instance, getting your ducts cleaned regularly can help!

If you find or suspect mold in your home be sure to reach out to a professional like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to get it taken care of as soon as possible; living with mold in your house doesn’t always cause health problems, but it should always be removed! If you think your home may have mold don’t wait, give us a call at 605-213-3303!

Winter Driving Preparedness

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Vehicle covered in snow on side of road

While we may love living in South Dakota during the beautiful Spring-Summer-Fall seasons, winter in the Dakotas is a harsh wake up call that ultimately helps us appreciate the months of the year we can enjoy the outdoors. Along with the grey skies, winter in the Sioux Falls area can bring high-volume snow storms as well as extreme winds that greatly affect the wind-chill. For those of us who have lived in the area, we know the hazards of a harsh winter on the plains. For those who are new to the area, and as a reminder for us who have lived here, we wanted to give you some pointers on what to do if you are caught in your vehicle during a snowstorm.

Driving during a winter storm

Our first bit of advice on traveling during a winter storm, is to not do it! But we know that is not always realistic. When traveling during a snow storm:

• Slow Down! Higher speeds increase the risk of injury during an accident.
• Clear your vehicle of snow and ice before embarking on your trip.
• Be sure to have an emergency road side kit as well as blankets, food, and bottled water.
• If your visibility deteriorates to the point that driving is unsafe, pull over to the shoulder of the road and turn on your emergency lights.

Should you have to stop your vehicle and wait out a snow storm:

• Do not leave your vehicle unless to get an item from the trunk.
• Run the motor in ten minute intervals each hour to retain heat inside the vehicle.
• Clear snow buildup from the tail pipe if necessary.
• Turn on your dome light at night while running the vehicle so help can find you.
• After snow has stopped falling, put up your car hood so your vehicle is easily visible.

For even more great information visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter-during.

Damage from Burst Pipe

11/19/2020 (Permalink)

Frozen pipe that has burst

Frozen pipes can be dangerous for a multitude of reasons. They can create an inconvenience but, more seriously, can cause severe damage to your home or business.

Detecting Frozen Pipes

One of the first signs of frozen pipes is a lack of running water, causing an inconvenience in performing your everyday tasks. The first step to take when you notice you may have a frozen pipe is to try to locate where the frozen pipe is situated in your home. Fortunately, if the pipe in question is easy to access, such as a pipe under a kitchen sink, you might be able to thaw the blockage using a hairdryer or a small space heater. This is the best case scenario. Unfortunately, many people do not recognize a frozen pipe in time before it becomes a burst pipe or the pipe is in an exterior wall where it may not be noticeable, which can lead to severe damage.

That is where SERVPRO can help!

Should you experience water damage from a burst pipe in your home, call the experts at SERVPRO Fire & Water Cleanup & Restoration immediately. We are standing by 24/7, ready for your call to help restore your home after water damage. From extraction and cleaning to any necessary contents cleaning, we are Here to Help.

Emergency Office Cleaning

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ad for emergency cleaning services.

As the fall draws closer to winter and the prospect of gathering outdoors fades away, for South Dakota at least, people will be spending more and more time indoors until the spring thaw. As we gather for holidays and recreation, it is important to keep health and safety top of mind. We are Here to Help your business stay open, and your employees and customers safe!

How can SERVPRO help?

As soon as businesses began re-opening across the nation, SERVPRO was standing by, ready to help with our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned initiative. As the year has progressed, our franchise has helped disinfect spaces as large as a manufacturing facilities, and as small as a two person office. No matter the size of your business, SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 to help clean and disinfect your workspace! Call us at 605-213-3303 to schedule yours! 

Holiday Fire Safety

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

Decorated Christmas tree

“Oh the weather outside is... Well not quite frightful yet, thankfully.” But we are racing in to cooler temps, snow, and the holiday season. The Holiday’s bring about a certain sense of cheer and togetherness. You’re gathered with the family, snuggled up in a cozy blanket, going back for another slice of pie. What’s missing from this scenario? For a lot of families, a nice scented candle like cinnamon apple to tie the whole ambiance together. If you’re going that route, be sure the extra helping of pie doesn’t make you take a nap with the candle burning. With the modern materials in today’s home furnishings, fires can start and spread quickly. If you plan on burning a candle, be sure to always have someone alert with an eye on it, and extinguish the candle before leaving the room.

Christmas Trees... Go with the real thing or Artificial?

A Christmas tree to gather the family around for the holidays is a wonderful sight. Decorated with ornaments and family memories, presents at the bottom, and pretty lights strung throughout. A great image for the holiday season. When choosing a tree for the holiday season, you have the option of using a real tree or an artificial. On the safety side of things, we would recommend using an artificial tree. However, a real tree can be a totally safe option if you maintain the care of it properly. This involves regular watering to keep the tree from drying out. An improperly cared for, dry tree can go up like a matchbox if exposed to a candle or perhaps an electric short from the lights you have used to decorate the tree.

Standing by to help your family!

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable holiday season, surrounded by the ones you love. If the worst should happen to your family and you experience a fire in your Sioux Falls area home this season, we are standing by 24-7, “Ready for whatever Happens!”

Why to get your ducts cleaned

11/4/2020 (Permalink)

Duct work before and after cleaning

Why is it so important to have your air ducts cleaned? The air that fills your home circulates through ducts multiple times a day while filling your living spaces. This is also the air that you and your family are breathing in. Ducts often get clogged with dust and debris, often times workers find toys, animals, loose change, food and so much more! Here at SERVPRO we do air duct cleaning that has multiple benefits such as:

• Create a cleaner living environment for you and your family
• Reduce allergens and irritants
• Removes unpleasant smells and odors
• Improves airflow quality

When your duct system is clean it does not work as hard to maintain your desired household temperature decreasing the amount of energy being used. It is important to have your air ducts cleaned every 3-5 years.

Quick Response to Water Loss

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying equipment in room

After a water loss in your Sioux Falls area home, a quick response to begin the drying process is key. As mold can begin to grow under the right conditions within 24-72 hours of exposure to moisture, getting your home dried out quickly and efficiently is important.

SERVPRO Process

At SERVPRO, we aim to have high standards in responding quickly to our customers’ water loss. We know that having your home back to normal as quick as possible is the most important thing for you. Our phone lines are open 24/7, as emergencies can happen at anytime. Upon receiving an emergency call, our team of on-call technicians will be mobilized to respond to your home, and make that water loss “Like it never even happened.”

Mold in the workspace

10/28/2020 (Permalink)

Technician removing moldy drywall

Finding Mold in your Sioux Falls area workplace is not a matter to take lightly. Mold colonies in the workplace can lead to health complications for your employees, as well as negatively affecting their pre-existing conditions such as allergies or asthma. A workplace with employees out sick regularly means a workplace where operations aren’t running as efficiently as they should.

Where to find Mold in the office:

While mold spores are all over the natural and indoor world, they really don’t cause any damage to humans until they find a safe, dark, and damp environment to begin growing and multiplying. Mold growth in the office can commonly be found in cupboards below a water source, such as a kitchen sink. Spots where previous water damage has occurred are ripe locations for mold growth if not properly dried.

What to do:

To remove a mold growth in your office, call the experts at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls! We are trained to remediate mold in any setting, be it your attic at home, or a large commercial office space. During our mitigation efforts, we can set up containment around the affected area to isolate the mold, and to keep the rest of your office space functioning. Keep you employees and customers healthy, call us today at 605-213-3303!

Unprecedented Times with SERVPRO

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO staff cleaning office space.

In these uncertain times, it is easy for stress to rule our minds. With so many uncertainties regarding the global pandemic, it’s understandable to have fears about the unknown. That is where we can help! Let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls help you and your clients with a little peace of mind. 

As a business owner, you must be concerned with running your business profitably while at the same time keeping your customer’s health and safety at the top of mind. We can help with that. With our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program, we can tailor a cleaning procedure to fit your specific needs. Whether you are looking for a proactive cleaning before hosting a large event or you need our services in the event of a confirmed case emergency, we are Here to Help. 

We are available 24/7 at 605-213-3303. We are treating confirmed case cleanings as we would an emergency water loss because we know how important a quick response is for your business. 

Home smoke alarms

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke alarm with smoke visible

As fires in the home can be devastating, we wanted to help our customers be prepared in their homes. Today we will talk a little bit about smoke detectors and the important role they play in protecting your family from harm.

Why you need smoke detectors in the home

Smoke detectors are the last line of defense between your family and the dangers of a fire. A sleeping person could miss the sight and smell of smoke and be completely oblivious to any threats. This is one of the reasons it is recommended to put smoke alarms inside and just outside of every room where someone sleeps in your home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, three out of five home fire deaths occur in homes with either no smoke alarms or non-functioning smoke alarms. Functioning smoke alarms are a must have in your home.

Smoke Alarm Maintenance

When you have functioning smoke alarms installed, it is important to conduct routine tests and maintenance. It is recommended you test your smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button on your alarm. While not always possible with older models, if you purchase new models, try to get them on an interconnected network so when one sounds, all the other in the home go off. Smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years.

Fall Weather Outlook

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Leaves changing color with the seasonal change

As the temperature starts to drop and the leaves change color, its time to embrace fall. The smell of pumpkin spiced everything permeates the air and we begin to pull out our favorite sweaters and blankets. As we begin to settle in for winter and the snow storms to come, let’s take a moment to focus on what type of weather events occur in the fall.

Thunderstorms

As cooler air begins to mix with the leftover warm, humid air from the summer, we can see strong thunderstorms develop. Fall is the secondary peak season for thunderstorms after spring. Fall storms may not be as frequent but can be as powerful. If a storm passes through the Sioux Falls area, be prepared and know what to look for after in terms of damage. Check to see if heavy winds knocked any tree limbs loose that can damage your home. Severe thunderstorms can also bring a lot of rain, so be sure to check for water damage in your home, particularly with your sump pump.

Fog

Cooler and longer evenings lead to the development of fog. As the ground absorbs heat from the sun all day, the cooling in the evening can produce fog. Fog won’t do any damage to your home, but it can impair visibility while driving. Be sure to allow yourself extra time when traveling under a fog advisory.

Frost

An early frost can wreak havoc on your garden or other vegetation. If you are still trying to squeeze the last bits of productivity out of your garden, be sure to keep an eye out for frost advisories and cover your plants in the early evening.

Tornadoes

While tornadoes are typically found in the spring and early summer, the same forces that can cause fall thunderstorms to develop can produce a tornado as well. Be aware and updated on local weather developments. We also recommend having a safety plan in place with your family. Tornadoes can cause devastating damage in a matter of seconds.

Cleaning Clocks with SERVPRO

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

Side by side of before and after clock cleaning

A few weeks back we were contacted by a customer with a request to restore and refurbish a clock. Typically our contents restoration stems from a fire or water loss, but this customer had found a vintage panda clock and wanted to see if we could restore it to its former glory.

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls... We’ll clean your clock!

The customer brought the clock in and we assessed it. It had been stained yellow after years of exposure to nicotine and smoke. We had a big task ahead of us. We got to work on restoring the clock, using our specially-designed cleaning chemicals developed in house by SERVPRO. The customer asked us only to restore the look of the clock, but along the way we noticed some of the functioning parts of the clock weren’t working as intended. So we reached out to some people in the industry and were actually able to track down some replacement parts. After our cleaning and a touch of paint, the clock was as good as new.

A Gift for Family

After returning the clock to the customer, they were incredibly thankful. The clock was to be a gift for the niece of the gentleman who brought us the clock. The niece had just started working in nursing out in California, in the middle of a pandemic. She had relayed to her uncle that the little time away from work that she had was spent at the San Diego Zoo, where she had become enamored with pandas. Her uncle found the clock and wanted to send it to her to show his appreciation for the brave work she was doing as a nurse. We were so happy to be able to help restore the clock and we hope the gift is appreciated!

Proactive or Reactive Viral Pathogen Cleaning

9/16/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned promotional image.

The nation has examined and reconfigured nearly all of our cleaning and hygiene protocols over the past year. It has been a time of change and reflection, with the intention of providing customers and citizens with the peace of mind that the places that they frequent have been cleaned with the best procedures. As information has been changing regularly over the past year, SERVPRO has been at the forefront of developing new procedures and programs for cleaning. 

Even with enhanced cleaning protocols at your business, something may come up that you are not prepared to handle. Let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls help you out! We are experienced in viral pathogen cleanings and know how best to clean your business space to better protect your clients. With our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned program, we are able to consult with you and tailor a cleaning program that fits your business needs. As we know unforeseen events can happen at anytime, we are treating viral pathogen cleanings as emergencies and aim to respond to your cleaning inquiries with the same quickness that we do a fire or water loss. 

Call us today at 605-213-3303! 

Carpet Cleaning with SERVPRO

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technician cleaning carpet

Renting a carpet cleaning unit from your local hardware store and cleaning your carpets seems like an easy enough task to complete. You need to plan ahead and find a time that you can try and get the other people in your home and any pets you may have out of the home. Furniture needs to be arranged moved around so the majority of your carpet can be cleaned. You need to reserve the time to rent the cleaning machine and make sure you know how to use it as well as any stain removal techniques. Okay, maybe this isn’t as simple as we thought.

Why you should use SERVPRO

If the process of cleaning your carpets gets to be too much of a headache, give SERVPRO a call! We have staff trained incarpet cleaning, stain removal, and upholstery cleaning. Let us take the stress off your mind and professionally clean your carpet using our hot water extraction techniques. Using a professional service like SERVPRO means instead of a rented, weaker portable unit used to clean your carpets, we will come to your home with our truck mounted system to make your carpets look and feel brand new! A truck mounted system uses hot water blasted in to your carpet to knock loose and dirt and debris and the high powered suction of our truck mounted vacuum system to pull the water, dirt, and debris from your carpets.

If your Sioux Falls area home is ready for a deep carpet clean, call the pros at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to schedule today! 

605-213-3303

What to do with belongings after a fire?

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

Surfboard damaged by fire before and after cleaning by SERVPRO

After the fire has been extinguished in your home or business, the true magnitude of damage can be assessed. On top of structural damage caused by the fire, smoke and soot damage can permeate your Sioux Falls area home. The emotional weight we tie to our personal belongings and family memories can make this a very stressful time. 

Let SERVPRO take some of that stress off of your hands. We are experienced in after-fire pack outs and will come to your home or business to collect, log, and track all of your belongings throughout the contents cleaning process.

Once we have the items in our shop, we can begin to use our many proprietary SERVPRO-developed chemicals specifically made to clean different materials after a fire. On top of contents cleaned by hand, we also use an Ultrasonic cleaning system that uses sound waves to produce millions of imploding bubbles that help scrub soiled items cleaned. 

If you should experience a fire in your home, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call at 605-213-3303, and we will do everything in our power to restore your items “Like it never even happened.”

Free Mold Estimates with SERVPRO

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Growth on basement walls

After being cooped up at home the past five months, students are returning to school and your home might be getting a break from the chaos. Maybe you take this opportunity to get your home deep cleaned and freshened up. Vacuuming, dusting, maybe even getting your carpets cleaned. Perhaps you are packing up some toys and putting them in to storage. While moving stuff around in your storage space, you notice a weird fuzzy patch on your wall. If you’re unsure if its just dust or mold, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call!

Free estimates within 30 mile radius:

At SERVPRO, we will come assess your home for a mold growth and give you a free estimate on remediation and potential reconstruction should you fall within a 30 mile radius of our shop. With this estimate you will be able to decide the correct course of action for your home.

Water Damage: DIY or call the pros?

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Water restoration

Do It Yourself (DIY) projects around the home have plenty of appeal. They provide you with a sense of accomplishment upon completion. Typically they present an opportunity to save money by avoiding contractor fees. Frankly, some folks just enjoy completing projects on their own. DIY projects have their time and place, however, water damage restoration is one project we recommend hiring a professional restoration company for.

Unforeseen complications of water damage: Water damage in your Sioux Falls home can be a frustrating experience. Even experienced DIYers may not have the expertise to handle a water loss in the home if they don’t have experience in the industry. It may seem a simple process on paper. Remove the water and use fans to dry the area, that’s it right? Well, not exactly. Water damage in the home is not so easily treated. There are many factors to take in to consideration that the average homeowner may not recognize.

Why you should use a professional water restoration company:

• Expertise: This type of work is a restoration company’s bread and butter. They have handled water losses before and know all factors to consider. For instance, what was they source of the loss? Is the water clean or contaminated? How much equipment will be needed to properly dry the damage? Can the carpet be dried out or does it need to be removed and replaced?
• Equipment: Restoration companies like SERVPRO have all the necessary tools and equipment on hand to properly mitigate your water damage. Imagine a scenario where the area sees a flash flood event. You will have people running to stores to pick up fans, dehumidifiers, shop-vacs and generators. A supply shortage is a very real issue to consider. SERVPRO has all of this equipment as well as specialized equipment like moisture meters that can find moisture in walls and other spots you may not think to look.
• Insurance Claims: Depending on your insurance coverage, oftentimes, water damage may be covered under your policy which can save you money on repairs. However, some insurance companies will not pay out a claim if the necessary work is not done by a professional. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls works closely with all insurers and can give you the peace of mind that your insurance will help cover costs.
• Full Service: SERVPRO provides emergency response to water losses. We know the importance of a quick response time to mitigate the potential for mold growth that can occur 48-72 hours after a water loss. Along with our expertise, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is equipped to handle your loss from beginning to end. We can handle the initial response, any necessary demolition, as well as any necessary rebuild you may need.

Should you experience water damage in your home, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303, anytime, day or night!

Where is mold commonly found?

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth behind drywall

As mold has a tendency to grow in cramped, poorly-lit locations in your home, you may not have any idea that you even have a mold infestation. The physical signs of a potential mold growth can present itself in your body in the form of health effects. These symptoms may be difficult to separate from the same symptoms that allergies produce in people. However, if someone has been dealing with allergies their whole life, they likely know when their symptoms are stemming from normal allergies and when something may be amiss and causing more issues than usual. Whether you have allergies or not, if you are experiencing health effects, it may be time to investigate for mold in your home.

Common places for mold:

Mold requires oxygen, moisture, and a food source to grow. To start eliminating potential locations of mold growth, exclude places that typically don’t get moisture. This typically can mean eliminating rooms such as bedrooms and living rooms. However, window sills in these rooms can still be a potential spot of mold growth if they are not sealed tight and prone to receiving moisture.

The most common locations for mold to be found include:

• Bathrooms- A poorly ventilated bathroom, which consistently is exposed to moisture in the form of showers and baths, is a prime location for mold growth. Check in and around your shower, as well as below your sink.
• Basement/Utility Rooms- Mold likes to grow in locations with lack of UV light. This makes subterranean rooms ripe for mold growth. Condensation from an air conditioning unit can lead to potential mold growth. An improperly dried room after a water damage event can also lead to mold growth.
• Kitchen- Another room of your home that sees a lot of moisture, in the form of washing dishes and the processes involved in cooking.

These are not the only rooms where mold can be found, but are typically a good place to start looking. Mold can also grow in your HVAC system, which gives it the opportunity to be spread throughout your home.

 If you believe you have a mold growth or you have found a mold colony in your Sioux Falls area home, it’s best to call a company that has expertise in mold testing and mold remediation. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has been a local leader in the mold remediation business for years. Call us to schedule a an estimate in your home today. We can find mold, begin the remediation process, and perform any necessary rebuild to get your home back to tip-top shape.

Commercial Fire Restoration

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO commercial fire damage image

As an emergency fire restoration company, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls should be your number one call if you experience fire damage in your South Dakota business. We understand the necessity of keeping your business open so you can continue to make money and keep operating. We have an emergency 24/7 response policy so we can respond quickly and begin the work of restoring your business “Like it never even happened.”

The process begins with an initial inspection which will provide us with the information necessary to begin restoration. We will then begin with any smoke, soot, and odor cleaning and remediation necessary. As fires tend to damage structures, we will be able to assess any structural damage that may need to be addressed through reconstruction. After smoke and soot remediation is complete, as a licensed general contractor, we will be able to begin and handle any necessary rebuild. We want to be there for you throughout the entire process, making it a smooth process from initial notification of loss to completion of rebuild.

Differences between cleaning and disinfecting; and how to combine them for great results!

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Animated image of cleaning bucket and cleaning solution.

Creating Healthy Homes and Workplaces

What is the difference anyway? Cleaning. Disinfecting. Aren’t they the same?

It does not matter if you are in an office setting, school, business, or home-cleaning and disinfecting have become words that are interchanged and used more often in these uncertain times. Understanding the true meaning of these terms can help reduce the spread of illness, creating a healthier environment.

Cleaning and disinfecting are two different processes. Understanding the difference and then combining the two are a powerful way to remove and kill germs that can lead to sickness.

Know the Difference

What is Cleaning?

Cleaning is the process of physically removing germs, dirt, and other particulates or impurities from surfaces. Bacteria and germs are not killed and can continue to spread or reproduce.

Imagine that you just finished an amazing supper with the family. As you remove the dishes and left-over food from the dining room table you see a few crumbs and spills on the table. Most of us would take a dishcloth and wipe down the table with a cleaning agent, such as dish soap or an all-purpose cleaner.  Cleaning the table only removes the food spoils and debris from the surface, it does not kill germs, bacteria, or pathogens. Cleaning is a very important first step in a multi-step process for cleaning and disinfecting.

Cleaning can be achieved by using the Fundamentals of CHAT:

• C – Chemical• H – Heat• A – Agitation• T- Time 1. Chemical: Choosing the right cleaning product for the job is the first step. For example, when you are about to clean those supper dishes would you use a detergent or a toilet bowl cleaner? Different chemicals or cleaning products are designed for particular tasks. 2. Heat: Hotter the better? Think about the scenario of washing the dishes. If you take a greasy pan and run cold water over it, even with detergent, there is limited soil removal. But turn up the temperature and you see a huge difference in cleaning effectiveness. By adding heat to the cleaning equation, you increase chemical reaction and yield better results. 3. Agitation: Using the scenario of washing dishes again. The dirty, greasy pan that you are cleaning with heat and detergent is being stubborn, now what? The right amount of agitation can greatly affect the cleaning equation. By using a steel wool, brush, or a scrub pad you are adding agitation to the equation, allowing the soiling to break loose. 4. Time: Time for the product to dwell on a surface plays an important role. Soaking time with that dirty, greasy pan in the detergent, hot water, and scrubbing now yields the perfect equation for cleaning.

What is Disinfecting?

Disinfecting can kill or inactivate the reproductive properties of germs, bacteria, and pathogens. Disinfecting destroys bacteria and viruses stated on their label for hard, nonporous surfaces. Disinfecting does not clean soiling from surfaces. Disinfecting is the most reliable way to help reduce the risk of spreading germs and viruses from touch points. 

Why is Disinfecting Important?

When used properly by pairing cleaning and disinfecting, you can kill up to 99.999% of bacteria and viruses on hard, nonporous surfaces. The key is also to read the label and follow all manufacturer recommendations. Consider the following while disinfecting:

• Coverage Area Make sure to cover every inch of an area with disinfectant. Leaving an area untouched will not kill the germs. • Dwell Time Amount of time a disinfectant needs to remain wet on the surface to effectively kill the organisms. Read the label to adhere to that products dwell time. Some are only 2 minutes up to 15 minutes. Not following the products dwell time does not properly disinfect. • Kill Claims Reading the label will list the bacteria, viruses, organisms, and germs that the product has proven to kill. There is no one size fits all. • EPA Registered Make sure the product is registered with the EPA. This gives you security in knowing that it has been tested and proven to kill the organisms on its label. 

Considerations when Choosing a Disinfectant. 

Below is a framework that will help determine the best disinfectant that meets your home or business needs.

1. Effectiveness: Read the product label to ensure it is effective for your home or industry needs. Some viruses have multiple strains and the product may not be effective against them all. 2. Kill Time: Knowing how quickly a product can kill a specific pathogen. Does the product keep the surface visibly wet to comply with these kill times? 3. Safety: Some disinfectants are toxic, some stain, others are corrosive, yet others have an undesirable odor. Check toxicity and flammability ratings on products, as well as any personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations for disinfectants you apply. Be sure a disinfectant will not damage any surface it is intended for. 4. Ease of Use: Are the recommendations on how to use practical in your environment? Is it easy to apply or cumbersome?

SERVPRO creates, manufactures, and uses a proprietary disinfectant called SERVPROXIDE,™  an EPA registered, stabilized chlorine dioxide-based disinfectant and sanitizer. It carries the EPA’s lowest toxicity rating, requires no PPE for general purpose use and is safe for everyday use. It is designed to kill harmful bacteria, viruses and mold on hard surfaces and is an effective sanitizer for soft surfaces. It is also NSF rated as a no rinse required on food contact surfaces.

EPA Registration # 82972-1-93012

Sorting through information about the various types of disinfectants takes time, but it’s a critical step to ensure you are making the best decision for your family and facility. Having the right products on hand along with a solid plan of proper cleaning and disinfectant practices, gives added peace of mind to you, your staff and any visitors that come through your doors. SERVPRO as always, is Here to Help.

Should you schedule a dryer vent cleaning?

8/11/2020 (Permalink)

Dryer vent before and after cleaning.

Getting your dryer vent cleaned is something that might often slip your mind. You probably don’t give much thought about your dryer unless it is not working as it should. One of the easiest signs to notice on a dryer vent that needs cleaning is clothes still being wet or damp after a normal cycle.

Why should you get your dryer vent cleaned?

A dryer vent clogged with lint can be a very dangerous fire hazard. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, clothes dryer fires are responsible for $35 million dollars in property damage annually, with failure to clean dryer vent being the most frequent cause at 34%. If the vent is clogged with highly flammable lint, the heat produced by a normal drying cycle can easily start a fire in your home.

Benefits of getting dryer vents cleaned:

On top of the peace of mind from knowing that your dryer vent is clear and poses a lower risk of causing a fire in the home, a dryer vent cleaning can vastly improve the efficiency of your dryer. On top of saving time, a clean, efficient drying machine can help save money on your utility bill. If you typically dry 4-5 loads of laundry a week, the industry recommendation is to have your dryer vents cleaned annually.

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we know the importance of having a clean dryer vent system. We are equipped to clean your vents using our truck mounted system. Call us at 605-213-3303 to schedule yours today!

Benefits of Commcercial Duct Cleaning

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Dirty ducting

Running a business takes a lot of effort and a lot of oversight. On a daily basis you might be interacting with staff, customers, vendors, and sub-contractors. You’re paying bills, managing your facility, setting up appointments, and catering to customer service. There is a lot on your plate, and sometimes things fall between the cracks. SERVPRO can help ease your mind and help you manage your facility.

What’s in your ducts?

One of the most often overlooked components of a business or commercial facility is the HVAC system and duct work. We often don’t give it a second thought unless its summertime and the A/C isn’t working. Getting your ducts cleaned can greatly improve your Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and provide a healthier environment for your employees and customers. Each day, contaminants such as hair, dust, and chemicals are cycled through our HVAC systems 5-7 times a day on average. Over a period of time, these contaminants can build up in your system.

How a cleaning from SERVPRO can help your business:  

On top of improving IAQ, a duct cleaning from SERVPRO can greatly improve the efficiency of your HVAC system, saving you money on your utility bill. Who doesn’t like saving money? A cleaning of your commercial duct system can also eliminate any unpleasant odors that may be circulating through your property.

Call us at 605-213-3303 to schedule a duct cleaning for your Sioux Falls area business today!

Don’t let a storm disrupt your business

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Storm Alert Logo

Major storm events can pose a potential disruption to the functioning of your business. A flash flood can leave your Sioux Falls area business with standing water that can damage both the structure of your building as well as materials such as documents in storage. At SERVPRO, we want to help put your mind at ease about how to respond after a storm event affects your business.

Emergency Response:

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7 to respond to storm related emergencies. We know storms can hit anytime, day or night, and a quick response can make all the difference in mitigating damage to your business. Timely extraction of water and dehumidifying efforts can be key in preventing potential mold growth. On top of our franchise’s 24/7 readiness, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls also has the ability to mobilize roving units of SERVPRO storm response specialists to help respond to storm events. 

Be prepared and have a plan in place for dealing with storm damage to your business. Include SERVPRO in that plan and allow us to put your mind at ease, knowing that SERVPRO has the knowledge, equipment, and resources to help your business, no matter the size of the damage. 

Mold in your office space

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth in commercial facility

Mold in the office:

Finding a mold growth in your business can be a hassle. Treating the mold growth quickly is the prudent thing to do as a mold colony can have detrimental effects on the health of your employees. Time spent dealing with the mold growth in your business can disrupt the functioning of your business. For a quick resolution of your issue, a call to SERVPRO is your best bet!

How SERVPRO can help:

As a leader in the mold remediation business for years, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has the knowledge and equipment to treat your mold growth quickly and efficiently, saving your business both time and money. Mold colonies have the tendency to spread quickly when untreated. Should a mold infestation be found in your business, SERVPRO can set up the proper contamination units to isolate the growth and treat it without spreading mold to other sections of your business. Should the mitigation of your mold issue require the removal of drywall or any other structural work, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls also offers reconstruction services to get your business back  up and running “Like it never even happened.”

Here to Help Philosophy

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Here to Help image

One of the biggest advantages to choosing SERVPRO as your fire damage experts, is the level of commitment and customer care we bring to each job. We know any type of loss in your home or Sioux Falls area business can be a deeply emotional experience, and we want to remind you that we are Here to Help.

What does Here to Help mean?

One of our core customer philosophies is the phrase Here to Help. Simple enough, but what does it actually mean? When you work with SERVPRO, we want to be able to use our expertise to make the entire project as smooth as possible for you. What does this entail? It means we are a full service, one stop shop provider for you after a loss. When dealing with a fire, we are capable of handling the smoke and soot damage cleaning, contents pack out and cleaning, any necessary demolition, as well as handling any necessary rebuild you may need. We aim to mitigate the trouble and trauma of a fire in your home and business, and give you the peace of mind that your home or business is in great hands. We know each job is different, and we’re here to work with you to tailor our services to fit your needs.

Peace of Mind with SERVPRO

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees fully suited up in PPE

As consumers in South Dakota try to be supportive of their favorite local establishments during the pandemic, we want to be able to provide support to these businesses and their clients. Cleanliness and sanitation are top of mind for most consumers right now. As a business trying to navigate these uncertain times, safety and peace of mind for your customers are difficult challenges to meet. Let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls take some of that concern off of your mind.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned:

As a leader in the cleaning industry for over 50 years, SERVPRO stood ready to answer the challenge that the current pandemic has presented. Instead of standing by and letting the pandemic dictate our actions, SERVPRO has been at the forefront of providing safety and peace of mind for local businesses. SERVPRO developed a program known as Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. With this program, we are able to consult with your business and create a cleaning plan that is right for you. Whether you are looking for preventative cleaning, or a disinfecting fogging of your business after a confirmed case, SERVPRO is Here to Help.

Call for Consult:

To set up a consultation with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, call us at 605-213-3303. We can set a time to sit down or meet with you virtually to get a grasp of your business and what type of cleaning would be right for you. Our number can also be reached 24/7 should you have need of emergency cleaning services.

Give your customers the peace of mind, knowing that the space they are in has been cleaned by professionals.

Don’t let water damage disrupt your business

7/24/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in office space

A rapid response to water damage is the key to getting your Sioux Falls area business back to normal. Should you experience a water loss from a burst pipe, or perhaps a storm event, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Emergency Response:

As a provider of emergency water loss response, SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 to take your calls. As we know a fast response time is key in mitigating damage from water, we have on-call staff at the ready to respond to your home or business.

Like it never even happened:

At SERVPRO, we understand that any time a loss event disrupts your business, this is likely time spent that your business cannot operate as normal.With a quick response time form SERVPRO, we will begin water extraction immediately, do any necessary cleaning and sanitation stemming from the source of loss, and set up drying equipment to have your business up and running in no time!

Sioux Falls commercial facility cleaning

7/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees cleaning commercial facility

As your Sioux Falls area company grows and expands you may be required to look for a new space to fit the needs of your company for years to come. It can be a very exciting, yet stressful time. Let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls take some of that stress off of you by hiring us for all of your commercial facility cleaning needs. What better way to welcome your employees to their new workspace than having it professionally cleaned before moving in.

What does a commercial facility cleaning from SERVPRO entail?

The simple answer is, whatever you want it to. No matter how detailed and in depth you want your facility cleaned, SERVPRO is Here to Help. We bring to the table over 50 years of cleaning experience, over 100 proprietary cleaning products, and the equipment to get the job done. From a small scale single occupant office space, to manufacturing facilities over 50,000 Sq. Ft., no job is too big. We can handle something simple like sweeping and mopping, while also being able to provide more extensive cleaning services such as odor removal or HVAC system cleanings. 

Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303 to schedule your cleaning today. 

Summer Safety Series: Mold in the home

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on windowsill

In the Sioux Falls area, we haven’t had to worry about rainfall totals quite as much as last year. It has been an uncharacteristically hot with rain events spaced out every few weeks. However, we have been experiencing high levels of humidity. Usually humidity does not become a factor until late July and August, however, this year we have been seeing extremely high humidity levels throughout the summer. While the lack of rain has been preventing extensive water damage, its important to monitor your home for humidity as mold growths can begin with just small amounts of moisture in your home.

How Humidity can start mold growth:

There are a few factors that need to be present for mold to grow. The most important factor is moisture. Next, the mold needs a source of food. This can include drywall, wood, and other materials used to build your home. The next most important factor needed for mold growth is a lack of UV light. Mold likes to grow in often unseen parts of our home that receive little to no light. Think of a utility room in your basement.

Sources of moisture in the home:

Excluding a large rainfall event, the most common causes that create moisture in the home during the summer are typically linked to keeping your home cool. One common place for mold growth in the summer is around windows that are not often used or may not receive a lot of direct sunlight. As the temperature and humidity rise outside, we often run our air conditioning unit more to compensate for the high heat. This juxtaposition of heat outside and cool air inside, can lead to condensation forming on your windows and running down onto wooden window frames, creating an environment for mold to grow. We recommend drying and cleaning your windows and their frames regularly if you notice moisture buildup. The next most common culprit for mold growths in the summer stem from runoff from air conditioning units. Typically, an AC unit will have a drain line that takes moisture away from the unit and towards a proper drainage system. However, older models can leak, leading to moisture getting in to crawl spaces and other hard to access areas of the home.

What should I do if I find mold?:

If you are unsure if you have a mold growth in your home, it is best to reach out to a company like SERVPRO that handles mold remediation in the Sioux Falls area. At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we are capable of performing mold tests and mold estimates. Our standard is to have a quote returned to you within two business days of a mold estimate. Should you need mold remediation services, SERVPRO is trained and has the necessary chemicals to treat your mold growth. Should any tear out and reconstruction work be needed, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can handle the entire process from beginning to end!

Summer Safety Series: Fireside Safety

7/16/2020 (Permalink)

Fire at camp site.

One of the best summer pastimes is sitting outside by the fire, enjoying a beautiful night. The familiar smells, marshmallows for s’mores slowly roasting over the flames, maybe a cold beer, and some good company. Whether you are out camping or you’ve got a fire pit in your backyard, the comfort of sitting around a warm fire with friends and family is a real treat. While you are out enjoying your time, its important to remember some basic fire safety tips to keep your friends and family safe.

What to have on hand:

Ideally, they safest way to start a fire is to use small kindling and rolled up newspapers. A starter log is also another safe bet. Try to avoid using lighter fluid. If you are finding yourself in need of an accelerant, it may mean your wood is too wet, or the conditions are too windy. Never start a fire if the conditions are too windy. It is very easy for embers to get picked up in high winds and spread to areas that could catch fire. We recommend having a bucket of water or a garden hose on hand at all times when building and enjoying a fire.

What to avoid:

Never use an accelerant such as kerosene or gasoline. They are too volatile to be used around open flames. Even pouring a little gas in the bottom of the pit and dropping a match from a distance is very dangerous, as the fumes will ignite first, potentially blowing hot air or flame at your person.

Make sure your fire pit is far enough away from any structures and is not covered by low hanging tree branches.

Make sure you and your guests are seated a safe distance from the fire pit.

When you are finished with the fire for the evening, be sure to properly extinguish it. Stir the ashes and douse thoroughly with water.

From all of us at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, have a safe and fun summer!

Before and after the storm

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Be Ready Image

There aren’t many things more peaceful than falling asleep to the sound of rain against your window. We appreciate the good that rain brings to us; the great smell of fresh earth, lawns turning a rich shade of green, new life being brought to our crops and plants. While being thankful for the good rain brings us, we must also be mindful of potential water damage from a rain event or other storm system.

What to look out for:

Be prepared for storm eventualities by knowing as much as you can about your property. Do you reside in a location that is prone to flooding? Do you have a sump pump, and if so, does it work as intended? Do I have any faulty roofing that could lead to potential leaks in the home? Do I know how to safely access my water and utility shut offs in event of a power outage or sewage backup?  These questions are a good starting point in your quest to be prepared for everything a storm can bring.

What to do if a water loss occurs:

Depending on the source of water loss and the extent, your best bet is to call a professional water damage cleanup and restoration company like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls! If the source of loss is an unclean source, such as sump pump failure or sewage backup, you definitely want to contact a professional company as the water could contain contaminants that will need treating after mitigation. The type of materials in the room where the loss occurred can play a factor in necessary mitigation efforts. If the loss occurred in a room with carpeting and drywall, a timely response in extracting and drying is important as mold can begin growth after just 48 hours of the right conditions.

What can I do for my business:

Take the above steps in to consideration and know as much about your property as possible. Have a plan in place for your company’s response to a storm that could affect your business. Not sure where to start? SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can help with that! We offer a free program to commercial businesses in the Sioux Falls area known as our Emergency Ready Plan, or ERP. An ERP performed by SERVPRO consists of a inspection of your facility to find pertinent energy and utility shut offs, as well as information gathering of businesses you work closely with and may need to contact in case of emergency. Finally we will get the necessary chain of command contact information to determine everyone who needs to be contacted in event of a loss. For more information or to set up an ERP for your businesses today, call our office at 605-213-3303!

Smoke and Soot Damage

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen after fire damage.

After the fire has been extinguished and everyone in the home is safe and settled, the next step to take in recovering after a fire in your Sioux Falls area home is to call SERVPRO! We are your local leaders in fire cleanup and restoration. Whether the fire was mild and only includes smoke and soot damage, or the damage to the structure is extensive and a rebuild is needed, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help!

Smoke and Soot Damage after a fire:

After a fire in your home, you may jump in and begin the cleaning process on your own. This is a natural instinct and the right instinct. However, the chemicals present in the home after a fire can be detrimental to the health of the homeowner while also being very difficult to fully remove without industrial cleaners and equipment. Let SERVPRO handle the cleanup for you. We have the know-how and the cleaning chemicals to clean and restore your home. Smoke odor can be very tricky to remove. Using our proprietary cleaning chemicals we are able to either clean the smoke and soot damage or trap the particles so no odor residue remains.

Contents Cleaning:

Even in rooms where the fire wasn’t physically present, the small particles and nature of smoke and soot allow it to travel through your home, often aided by your home’s HVAC system. Worry not, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is able to pack out your clothing and other personal belongings and bring them to our contents cleaning department to clean and restore your items to their best condition.

Reconstruction:

After cleaning has taken place and contents have been collected, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is a licensed general contractor that is able to help you with any of your construction needs. We strive to be a one stop shop for our customers and provide them with great service from first notice of loss all the way through reconstruction.

Document Restoration with SERVPRO

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO document restoration image

Document Restoration

A water loss in your business can be a huge disruption to your day to day operations. Depending on the severity, you may have to close down for a short amount of time. On top of damage done to carpets, walls, and office equipment, important documents and records could have gotten damaged as well. If you’ve handled water-logged documents before, you may think there is no recourse. That’s where SERVPRO can help!

SERVPRO is Here to Help

As part of a franchise system, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has access to SERVPRO’s state of the art document restoration systems. While responding to a water loss in your Sioux Falls area business, we can collect any damaged documents and transport them to our corporate headquarters where a devoted team can assess the damage and perform restorative duties as needed.

The Process

We use the latest in vacuum freeze drying techniques to preserve your documents, the same process that is used by the Library of Congress to preserve and restore historical documents. As a water loss can stem from a flood, sewage, or other contaminated water sources, we use Gamma irradiation technology to sterilize your documents.

Safe and Secure

At SERVPRO, your documents will be handled by HIPPA master-certified technicians under 24/7 surveillance to protect the security and confidentiality of your documents. After cleaning and restoring your documents, SERVPRO will also digitize your files for you to better help protect you from loss events in the future.

Types of content SERVPRO can restore:

• paper documents
• books and magazines
• manuscripts and files
• photographs, films, negatives, and microfiche
• x-rays
• blueprints and maps
• parchment

If you have a water loss in your Sioux Falls area business, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help through the whole process!

Improving Indoor Air Quality with SERVPRO

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Side by side image of duct work before and after cleaning.

Importance of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

According to the EPA, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants. Adverse health effects from indoor air pollutants can manifest immediately or potentially not until years later. It is important to know the types of indoor air pollutants, and how to combat them.

Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants

• Mold Growth
• Fuel-buring combustion appliances
• Tobacco products
• Building materials and furnishings as diverse as:
• Deteriorated asbestos-containing insulation
• Newly installed flooring, upholstery or carpet
• Cabinetry or furniture made of certain pressed wood products
• Products for household cleaning and maintenance, personal care, or hobbies
• Central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices
• Excess moisture
• Outdoor sources such as:
• Radon
• Pesticides
• Outdoor air pollution.

Effects of Indoor Air Pollutants on Employees and Customers

Responses to indoor air pollutants can vary from person to person, depending on many factors such as age and time of exposure. People with existing allergies can be adversely affected by indoor air pollutants. Often times, indoor air pollutants will cause irritation of the eyes and the respiratory system. People with asthma may notice their symptoms are worse when in an office space with poor IAQ. Other common signs of indoor air pollution include dizziness, headaches, and fatigue.

How can SERVPRO help your business?

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is trained in multiple lines of service that can help improve air quality in your Sioux Falls area office space. Upon being contacted by a business to treat poor IAQ, SERVPRO will often examine the building for any signs of mold growth. As mold spores are able to be moved throughout a building by fans and HVAC systems, a mold growth can expand and effect air quality to a great extent. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is trained in mold remediation and can help you treat any mold growths.

Another service SERVPRO can perform to help improve your business’ IAQ is duct cleaning. We are trained and capable of handling commercial duct cleanings of any size. Depending on the amount of time since your last duct cleaning, your HVAC system could be filled with dust, construction debris, and other irritants that can play a big role in effecting IAQ. We can clean and disinfect your duct work, improving both IAQ and your building’s energy efficiency.

Concerned about your Sioux Falls area business’ IAQ? Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls today at 605-213-3303 for a free estimate on duct cleaning and mold remediation!

Rebuilding After Fire

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen reconstruction undertaken by SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

A fire in the home is one of the more traumatic experiences you can go through. Once everyone is safe and the danger from the fire has abated, it is time to assess the damage and move forward on what needs to be done. 

Let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls take that stress out of your hands. Our team of restoration and construction experts are here to help walk you through the whole process to help you find your peace of mind. 

We can treat smoke and soot damage with our array of proprietary cleaning products, while also using our knowledge to best restore any personal contents that may have been damaged in the fire. 

As a general contractor, after cleanup is done, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls will perform a reconstruction estimate for you, and are standing by to complete the reconstruction process. 

Working for the Weekend

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded office space

Not much feels better than stepping away from your job as the weekend hits. You had a productive week, the business is doing well, morale is high! You say goodbye to your employees and look forward to a weekend of relaxing. Suddenly, at 2 AM on Saturday, you get an alert on your phone from your office security system about potential damage. You race to your business and realize an overhead pipe has burst, covering your office space with water, documents and all.

What do you do when your business encounters water damage at 2 AM? Why, you call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls of course! SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 with employees on call ready to respond to any disaster, at any time! We know the importance of a timely response to water damage, in both removing and mitigating water damage, as well as preventing potential mold damage. On top of our mitigation and reconstruction efforts, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls also provides contents and document cleaning!

Should you need our emergency services, we can be reached anytime at 605-213-3303!

Odor Eliminators

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

Information about SERVPRO odor elimination

Dealing with odors in the home can be a nuisance.They can stem from many different sources and could take multiple treatments before the odor is eliminated. Sources of odors around the home can stem from tobacco and nicotine usage such as smoking and vaping, or pet debris and bodily fluids. Whatever the cause, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help!

At SERVPRO, we have the technology, training, and products to get your home smelling fresh in no time. Whether it means cleaning walls and carpets with our proprietary cleaning products, or using an Ozone machine to attach to and break down organic compounds causing odors.

If you recently moved in to or own a property in the Sioux Falls area where a noxious odor is present, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303 to schedule an inspection and consultation ASAP!

Storm Watches Vs. Warning

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO storm ready image

Severe weather season is underway so it’s a good time to review the difference between tornado and severe thunderstorm watches and warnings.  A WATCH means that the potential exists for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes to develop.  A tornado watch does not mean that a tornado has been seen, it just means that conditions are favorable for one to develop.  The same applies to a thunderstorm watch.  Conditions are conducive for the development of severe weather.  When watches are issued there is no immediate action for you to take, but do keep up to date on the current weather situation.

WARNINGS on the other hand need to be taken seriously and demand action.  A severe thunderstorm warning indicated that severe weather is imminent in your area or already happening.  Severe refers to wind gusts exceeding 58 mph and hail greater than 1” in diameter.  A tornado warning means that a tornado has been indicated by radar or spotted by a human observer.  Take cover immediately when a tornado warning is issued for your area as the likelihood of you beingdirectly impacted by a tornado is at a heightened risk.

With this knowledge of watches and warnings, you will be better prepared the next time severe weather threatens your area.  Remember too that SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help the Sioux Falls area during severe weather events if you should have any damage.  We provide services from start to finish to get you and your family back to pre-storm condition.

Sump Pump Maintenance

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

Sump pump and well in basement of home.

If you have a sump pump in your Sioux Falls area home, you may often find yourself not thinking about it unless something goes wrong with it. To avoid potential sump pump disasters, it is important to perform regular maintenance on your pump.

Sump pumps are typically installed at the lowest point of your home. Sump pumps are used to pump water out of your home when water levels reach your foundation. A properly functioning sump pump will kick on when water levels get too high, sending water out to help keep your basement dry. The typical sump pump runs on electricity, but if you live in an area prone to violent storms that can cause power outages you may want to consider purchasing a battery back up-operated sump pump or a water pressure-activated sump pump. The middle of a storm is a terrible time for you to discover your sump pump has failed.

Performing a full maintenance check on your sump pump system is a pretty simple process that can potentially help you avoid a costly water loss.

• Before adjusting or moving sump pump, disconnect the sump pump from its electricity source.
• Remove the pump from the well and check the intake grate for any rocks or debris that could have been pulled in.
• Clear well of any debris.
• Put sump pump back in to place and reconnect to power source.
• Fill a 5 gallon bucket with water and pour in to the sump well to make sure the system kicks on and is operating as should.
• Outside your home, check the condition of the pump discharge pipe, making sure it is free of blockage and debris.

If your sump pump appears to not be operating as intended, do not hesitate to call a professional to assess your system.

Should you encounter a sump pump failure in your home or business, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7 to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Summer Safety Series: Storm preparedness

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Storm Alert Logo

Summer is finally here and that means its storm season!  Wind, hail and thunderstorms usually happen during the warm months in the afternoons or evenings.  But keep in mind, they can occur throughout the entire year at any time of the day or night.  Protect yourself and your home by preparing and knowing what to do before, during and after a storm hits.

Preparations

The first step is to create a disaster plan.  Make sure everyone in your family knows what to do when a severe storm hits and where to meet if you should get separated from one another.  Have an emergency kit, including a first aid kit.  Some basic supplies to have on hand include, battery-powered flashlight, canned goods, bottled water, candles and a battery-powered radio.

There are some simple precautions you can take in almost any situation.  If there’s a concern about flooding, wind or lightning, you can:

• Clean your gutters• Keep tree limbs trimmed• Be aware of weather forecasts and patterns• Secure loose patio furniture• Seek shelter in a basement or interior room away from windows

The Aftermath

After the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, go and take a look at your homes exterior.  Note any damage including broken windows, fallen tree branches or missing shingles.  Don’t overlook the small things like dents and dings.  These could be signs of worse damage.

The next step is to call your insurance agent.  Be prepared by having your policy number at the ready and by reviewing your policy and having an understanding of your coverage.

We hope disasters don’t strike, but if they do SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help 24/7 to make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold in your HVAC system?

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

Moldy vent before and after treatment.

Keeping Cool

As we reach the warmest part of the year, many folks will be rushing to turn on their air conditioning to try to beat the heat. As you turn on your system for the first time since using it for heat in the winter months, it is important to assess your system to make sure it is operating effectively and efficiently.

Musty Smell

As you run your air conditioner for the first few times, be sure to assess the system and see if any condensation is forming around your unit. Excess condensation along with a musty smell throughout the home can be signs of a potential mold growth in your HVAC system. A large mold infestation may be visible around vents as well if they mold has had time to grow. If after changing the air filter, the musty smell persists, it’s best to call a professional mold remediation company like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls.

Treating your HVAC system

At SERVPRO, we both clean ducts and are in the business of mold remediation. We offer free mold estimates and have the technology to assess and clean your duct work. Should you encounter a mold growth in your HVAC systemin the greater Sioux Falls area, call the experts at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls 605-213-3303!

Duct cleaning in your newly built home

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

New home under construction

As Sioux Falls consistently ranks near the top in terms of opportunity and low cost of living, it is a very appealing city for someone looking to find a place to call home. On top of the thriving real estate market, Sioux Falls is full of many great home construction companies that can help you build your dream home.

If you do have a new home built in the Sioux Falls area, you might find yourself not thinking twice about your HVAC system and duct work unless something is not working. Why would you need your ducts cleaned when the home and system are entirely new?

As a new home is constructed, typically the HVAC system is installed before a majority of the flooring and drywall is installed. With all these materials being cut, hauled, and installed throughout the home, it is likely that dust and debris will find it way in to your HVAC system and duct work. It is a very treatable issue, and SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to help! Give us a call at 605-213-3303 to schedule a cleaning today. We’ll have your home and HVAC system operating as it should in no time!

Water Loss Do’s and Don’ts

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage image

In the case of an emergency water loss in your home or business it is important to know what to do until professional help like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can arrive on scene. A water loss can be a shocking and sometimes traumatic experience if your personal belongings have been affected.

Here are some helpful Do’s and Don’ts on dealing with a water loss:

Do:

If possible shut off the source of water if it can be safely reached. If unsure about the safety, contact a qualified party to help you.

If you can access the circuit breaker, turn off the electricity for the areas affected by water.

Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting with towels.

Try to move affected valuables to a dry space.

If sewage is involved with the loss, avoid all contact with the water and any items contaminated by sewage.

Don’t:

Enter rooms with standing water, where electrical shock hazards can exist.

Enter affected areas is electrical outlets, switches, or any other type of electrical equipment has been exposed to water.

Use your household vacuum or any other electric powered device to try to extract standing water.

In case of a water loss with sewage, don’t walk through the contaminated area and spread contamination to other areas.

Use the HVAC system as it can spread contaminated air throughout your home.

Should you encounter a water loss in your Sioux Falls area home or business, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7, ready to respond faster to any size disaster. We can be reached anytime day or night at 605-213-3303.

For more info, visit our website! 

Build it Back

6/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO restoration services image

As a full service Fire &Water Cleanup & Restoration company, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help you from the first initial notice of loss. As a company that operates 24/7 we always have someone standing by to help. Should the damage incurred at your home or business require construction and building services, SERVPRO can help with that as well!

As a licensed general contractor, SERVPRO is able to help homeowners and businesses mitigate any damage, and then we will help you build back “Like it never even happened.” The professionals at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls can simplify the restoration process by handling both theinitial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.

On top of providing mitigation, restoration, and construction services, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is also able to help you with contents cleaning. From furniture and clothing to electronics and personal valuable, we will clean and restore anything in your home or business that is salvageable.

The Lungs of your Home

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Ducts before and after a cleaning.

The Lungs of Your Home - Allergens and Asthma

Through our everyday living, we contribute to contaminants and allergens in the home by shedding hair, dander, and skin cells. According to the HVAC Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Association, these contaminants are cycled throughout your home 5-7 times daily on average.  These contaminants are particularly dangerous to people with allergy and asthma issues. As these allergens are with us year round, it is important to remove the buildup of allergens in our duct system so we aren’t constantly fighting an uphill battle. Reducing the amount of allergens in your home by having a duct cleaning performed is a good start to alleviating the ailments associated with allergies and asthma.

Bacteria, Viruses, Mold and Pathogens 

Research has shown airborne viruses like Covid-19 that are primarily spread by respiratory droplets can be taken in and circulated by your HVAC system, contributing to the spread of airborne viruses. The small particles of viruses and bacteria can be kept alive in your HVAC system if they have access to food (skin cells) and moisture. The absence of UV Light and the presence of the other two elements are the perfect breeding ground for biological growth, including mold. Mold growth in the home, and particularly your HVAC system, can greatly exacerbate allergies and asthma.

Schedule a duct cleaning with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls today, our office can be reached at 605-213-3303. Breathe free with the knowledge that the lungs of your home have been cleaned by SERVPRO! 

Summer Safety Series: What to do after Hailstorm

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Apartment complex and car with hail damage.

Summer Storms

The warm temperature’s of summer give us reason to spend time outside enjoying the company of our friends and family. Pool parties, cookouts, boating and camping, the possibilities are endless. While enjoying the season and its many activities, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls would like to remind you to be mindful of the powerful thunderstorms that can develop in a moment’s notice.

Hailstorms

Thunderstorms form when moist warm air rises and meets cold air. This process which causes water vapor to produce small water droplets. Depending on the conditions this can produce heavy amounts of rain in a small time or if cooled quickly enough, hail can form. Should a hailstorm come through the Sioux Falls region, it’s important to check your home for damage after the storm has passed.

Checking your home for damage

Unless you are a professional, it is recommended you do not climb up on your roof after a storm. You can still examine your home for signs of hail damage. Check the siding for dents which would indicate that your home was hit with hail, meaning your roof experienced it as well. If you have trees close to the home, make sure to inspect them for signs of broken branches which could cause damage to your home. Missing or damaged shingles are usually easy to spot from ground level. It’s important to check your attic and ceiling for signs of water damage as well.

How can SERVPRO help after a hail storm?

If you see signs of water damage inside your home or exterior damage that could produce a water loss in your Sioux Falls home, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call anytime day or night. We know the importance of a quick reaction to water damage. SERVPRO has staff on call 24/7, ready to respond faster to any size disaster. Should hail cause damage to your home, SERVPRO is able to help you with the initial water loss through any necessary reconstruction!

Let SERVPRO help sell your Sioux Falls area home

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Green SERVPRO vehicle in front of home.

Why Realtors work with SERVPRO

Realtors and their clients know the importance of having the home they are trying to sell be as appealing as possible. Realtors want to have every available tool at their disposal to help their clients sell their homes. SERVPRO of Sioux Falls provides realtors with quite a few of these tools!

Carpet Cleaning

There is little less appealing in a home than dirty, stained, and worn carpets. They are often the first thing a prospective buyer may notice about a home. SERVPRO is standing by to help you clean and freshen up your carpets to get them in the best possible condition.

Duct Cleaning

No matter the time of the year, while showing your home, your realtor will likely have the HVAC system active to keep the home at a welcoming temp. Get your ducts cleaned by SERVPRO to have the highest quality of air moving through your home. Getting ducts cleaned also helps removed dust from the home as it will not be circulated throughout your home, helping it stay cleaner longer.

Mold Remediation

Should a home inspector find a pesky mold growth in your attic upon closing inspection, fear not, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to Help! We offer free, timely mold inspections as well as the ability to treat the mold infestation, and perform any necessary reconstruction! If you are looking to sell your home in the Sioux Falls area, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call at 605-213-3303 to see how we can help!

Benefits of changing HVAC air filter

6/11/2020 (Permalink)

Clean air filter next to dirty air filter

Summer has sure gotten off to a hot start in the Sioux Falls area. If you can’t make it to the pool or a body of water, staying inside with the air conditioning on is about your only other option for keeping cool.

As usage of your HVAC system increases so does your energy bill and the amount of dust and debris being circulated through your home. These are just some of the reasons to regularly change your HVAC system air filter. A clean filter will improve efficiency, saving you money, as well as more effectively trapping more dust and debris. Cleaner air circulating through the home will help alleviate allergies and odors.

On top of helping maintain higher air quality, changing your air filter can help extend the life of your HVAC system. To get a fresh start with your HVAC system, pair the next changing of your HVAC air filter with a duct cleaning from SERVPRO of Sioux Falls! We will use our truck-mounted duct cleaning system to clean and remove debris from your entire home’s HVAC system.

To schedule a duct cleaning with SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, please call our office at 605-213-3303!

Commercial Water Loss Response in Sioux Falls

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team trailer.

Recent storms in the Sioux Falls area produced high winds, a large amount of rain in a small time frame, and some small hail. As leaders in the large loss industry, SERVPRO wants to let the Sioux Falls business community know we are Here to Help!

One of the keys to mitigating a commercial water loss is a timely response. Fortunately for your business, SERVPRO has staff on call 24/7 ready to respond to emergency water losses. We know any time spent with your doors closed due to water damage is time spent that your business is not making money. We aim to help you get back to normal operations as soon as possible.

On top of the equipment and knowledge our staff bring to the table, should the Sioux Falls area encounter a storm event such as a tornado, we are able to call on SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Teams that are specifically built and equipped to respond timely to large storm events.

Should your business need our services, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7, ready to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”

Get Your Carpets Cleaned By SERVPRO

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Person cleaning the carpet

While doing your spring cleaning did you remember to have your carpets cleaned?  The cleaning professionals at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls recommend having your carpets cleaned every six months.  With regular cleaning, carpets can retain that new look, feel and smell for longer. 

Your carpet acts as a filter, trapping damaging air pollutants like pollen, chemicals, bacteria, cigarette smoke and residues.  These trappings can trigger asthma attacks, eczema and rhinitis attacks.  Dirty carpets can lead to serious health problems in otherwise healthy people.  While you may be looking for solutions to your condition it may be as simple as what is right under your feet.  While vacuuming once or twice a week is recommended, it only clears the top layer of dirt and grime away.  Professional carpet cleaning can remove 98 percent of deep down grit and dirt that wears away any stain-resistance and cuts at carpet fibers.  Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls to extend the life of your carpet and improve your health by scheduling your carpet cleaning today. 

Always here to help at 605-213-3303

Because of You Award

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee displaying certificate from Because of You award.

In recent weeks, we have created the Because of You Award to celebrate our team members. As management, we know we are only as good as the people working with us. We took the opportunity to create the Because of You award as a thank you to our excellent team of technicians.

As a company that provides 24/7 emergency restoration services, we know the importance of being able to rely on your staff at all hours of the day. We have a great crew of trained restoration, mitigation, and reconstruction experts who are Here to Help our customers in any way they can.

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, our number one priority is creating happy customers. Fortunately, with the staff we have, we are able to meet this priority! We love nothing more than hearing a customer single out a staff member during the end of job process to sing their praises!

The winner of our award gets to wear our ceremonial crown for the whole week’s morning meeting, as well as an opportunity to spin the wheel of prizes! Not too mention VIP parking at the shop!

Mold in the summer cabin?

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on drywall

It’s that time of the year folks. Weather is getting warmer, the flames on the grill are roaring, and its time to take the family to the lake cabin on the weekends. You load up the car, pick out your snacks and cheesy road trip songs and head out on the road for a weekend of fun. As you unload your luggage when you get to the lake house you start to notice a musty smell. Suddenly, the magical weekend is on hold.

As you start to investigate you notice some black fuzzy spots around the window sills in your cabin. A little old fashioned google research tells you that you have a mold infestation growing in your summer home. Oh no! There goes the summer right? Wrong! At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls we are Here to Help remediate that mold and get you back to enjoying your summer!

 Should you encounter what you believe is mold, give us a call at 605-213-3303 and we will perform a free estimate. At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls we will use our proprietary disinfectants to eradicate the mold growth. Worried about having to hire multiple contractors if drywall needs replaced? Fear Not! We are staffed and equipped for all of your reconstruction needs.

Riding the Waves

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee using our Rover water extractor

We know a water loss in your home can be a turbulent and stressful time. Let SERVPRO of Sioux Falls put you at ease! 

Training

Our staff is regularly trained on water extraction and drying techniques throughout the year. As technologies and techniques evolve, so do we. We know the importance of drying and restoring your home and aim to do so as efficient and effectively as possible. 

Equipment

As you can see in the photo from a recent water leak in Sioux Falls, we have access to many different pieces of impressive equipment that allow us to extract water and dry out your home as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Response

At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls, we know the importance ofresponding to andacting on a water loss. That is why we are on call 24/7. Pipes can burst overnight, the washer can overflow when you’re not home. Quick response time is key to mitigating the circumstances that lead to mold growth. Should you need our services in  Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas, we are only a phone call away at 605-213-3303.

Summer Safety Series: Grill Safety

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Spread of food on grill

Nothing goes quite as well with the heat of summer as the smell of burgers and brats over flames on the grill. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole neighborhood, its important to remember your basic grill safety techniques so you can safely enjoy your time with the people you love!

Grill Outside and Away From Structures

This may seem like a no brainer, but is possibly the most important safety tip. Use caution when setting up your grilling space. Make sure you have adequate space between your grill and any surrounding structures. Be sure to look out for low hanging tree branches over the grill as well.

Keep Your Grill Clean

Not only will this improve the efficiency and taste of your grilling experience, cleaning your grill is an important step for grill safety. As we cook burgers and brats stuffed with cheese, fat will drip down off the grill grates and collect in the bottom of the grill. You may have to do some scraping to knock it loose, but after that a vacuum can be used to collect any ash or grease.

Grill on Stable Surface

Keeping your grill on an even, stable surface is the next important step for grill safety. You want your grill to be stable as you do not want the grill to roll away, or tip over, potentially causing harm to you or your home.

Be Mindful While Grilling

As we tend to get out the grill when we host friends and family, it is very important to be mindful of the grill while it is operating. It is easy to get distracted by pets or children running around having fun. Try to keep anyone not involved with cooking a safe distance away from the grill so they don’t bump in to it, potentially causing a burn.

Most importantly, Have Fun!

Tear out or Dry out? Dry out when you can!

5/28/2020 (Permalink)

Drywall wet from water loss.

Moving in to your dream home

Imagine you just got moved in to the dream home you had built in Sioux Falls. Everything is finally unpacked and put where you want it. The family is all settled and ready to go out to grab some dinner and unwind. You decide to put a load in the wash in your finished laundry room in the basement before you head out. After a fun family meal, you come home to find the washer wasn’t connected properly and now you’ve got standing water in you’re newly finished home. Worst case scenario right? Not with SERVPRO standing by 24/7 to help with emergency water removal and drying!

Initial Response

The scenario listed above is a very fortunate one for the homeowner as far as water losses go. A water loss stemming from an appliance is considered a category 1, or clean water loss, meaning the water itself poses no threat to humans. In a scenario like this we would begin the water extraction process as soon as possible to avoid mold growth. 

Dry out, not tear out

After the water has been extracted, we will begin the drying process. This consists of using SERVPRO fans, dehumidifiers, and any other equipment we need to do the job right. Your first thought upon seeing that the bottom portion of your dry wall is wet may be that it is soiled and needs to be replaced. With a quick response time, this is not the case! Our team has the know how, and the equipment to dry and salvage your drywall, saving both you and your insurer money. Using equipment like our Injectadry system, we can actually make small holes in the drywall that will allow the hose system to pump warm, dry air in to the drywall to dry from within.

What’s Next?

After completing the drying , SERVPRO will clean and disinfect any surfaces that need it as well as perform any reconstruction services needed. That’s right, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is Here to Help every step of the way, from initial notice of water loss, through drying, cleaning, and reconstruction. We are your one stop shop for making it “Like it never even happened.”

Employee Appreciation Party

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees enjoying an appreciation party.

We took an opportunity to reward our hardworking employees and held an employee appreciation party this week. Management knows we are only as good as our employees, and we’ve got some great ones!

Our teams were called back to the shop late in the afternoon to enjoy a taco bar and some fun SERVPRO-oriented trivia games. 

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Our defensive cleaning program gives your business a way forward by providing your employees and customers ongoing safety and assuredness.

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleanedreflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls today at  605-213-3303 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

* #1 Choice in cleanup & restoration based Commercial Attitude & Usage Tracking study. Polling 816 commercial business decision makers on first choice for future needs related to cleanup & restoration work. Study conducted by C&R Research: October 2019

Are you prepared for Spring and Summer storms?

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Weekend weather forecast for Sioux Falls

Calm Spring

Fortunately, the Sioux Falls area has not been inundated with crazy amounts of rain like last spring, however, at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls we want to help you be ready for when a storm does come through town. 

What to Expect

A storm system passing through the area can wreak havoc on your home. From flash floods, to hail and tornado damage, its best to prepare for the worst. A large amount of rain in a short amount of time can lead to sump pump backups, foundational flooding, and sewer water backups as the waste water system cannot keep up with the high demand. 

No matter the type of damage, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls stands at the ready to help! Our crews are trained in the extraction of water and the drying of surfaces in your home. Should you need reconstruction after a water loss or damage from a tornado, we are equipped to help you clean up, and build back “Like it never even happened.”

How to Prepare

• Know the types flood risks in your area. 
• Keep non-perishable food at the ready should the power be out for an extended time. 
• Have candles and flashlights, with extra batteries, ready to be used in case of power outage. 
• Know where your utility and electric shut offs are, these will be important to know in a flood scenario. 
• Avoid driving through flooded roads.

For more great information on how to prepare for storm events, visit https://www.ready.gov for more great information and resources for developing a disaster plan. 

For more information about SERVPRO of Sioux Falls please visit our Google listing: Check out SERVPRO of Sioux Falls on Google!
https://g.page/SERVPROofSiouxFalls?id

Mold in your rental property?

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Growth in Closet

A mold growth in your rental property can cause a huge headache for property managers and owners. You notice some mold as you are prepping a rental unit for a new occupant and suddenly everything is put on pause. We know that the time spent addressing the mold growth is time that you are not receiving revenue.

Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls help you! Mold remediation has been a staple of our business since its founding. Our team will come and inspect your mold problem, treat the issue, and then be able to perform any necessary reconstruction. We are your one stop shop for mold remediation!

Call us at 605-213-3303 to schedule today!

For more details visit our Google My Business page: https://g.page/SERVPROofSiouxFalls?id

Emergency Facility Cleanings

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Ad for professional cleaning services

As businesses in Sioux Falls and the state of South Dakota start re-opening and trying to get back to a semblance of normalcy, we want you to know we are here and ready to help. At SERVPRO of Sioux Falls we are available to come clean and disinfect your business at a moment’s notice. As we know anytime a business has to close its doors, that is a potential loss of revenue. We are treating proactive and confirmed case cleanings as emergency work, just like we would a water loss. You call us and we’ll come running. We know how important it is to you and your customers to have a clean facility and to be able to provide peace of mind to both your customers and your employees.

Being a part of the SERVPRO family brings with it access to EPA and CDC approved disinfectants developed by our own in-house chemists. This includes our premiere disinfectant SERVPROximist. We have the equipment to take our primary disinfectant, SERVPROXIDE, and use it to mist your commercial facility.

We will gladly consult with you and gather some information on your current cleaning and disinfecting practices. Once we have an estimate of what we would recommend needs to be done, we will work with you to put together an option and pricing package that works for you and your business! As a staple of the Sioux Falls area business community since 2014, we want to put you at ease and let you know that “We’re here to help!”

Call us today at 605-213-3303 to schedule your cleaning today!

For a more detailed explanation of our Covid19 response and recommendations, please refer to this post: https://www.SERVPROwestsiouxfalls.com/blog/post/207631/why-SERVPRO/we-are-cleaning-experts

Rain is on the forecast, We’re ready, are you?

5/4/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded utility room.

After a relatively dry April in southeastern South Dakota, May looks to begin with a bang. As professionals in water damage cleanup and restoration on standby 24/7, we are ready and “here to help”. Have you done all you can to prepare your home for a storm or rain event? 

 If you haven’t, fret not, we will shortly discuss some quick tips that can help you be prepared. 

1. Make sure you gutters and downspout are clear of debris, so they are able to operate as intended. 
2. Make sure your downspout and sump pump discharge pipe are positioned to let water flow freely away from your home.
3. If you have a sump pump, check to make sure it is functioning as it should. You can test it by pouring a 5 gallon bucket of water in to the well until the pump kicks on and engages. 
4. Know where your gas and electrical shut offs are located in case of emergency. 

For more great tips please visit: https://www.hometips.com/diy-how-to/get-house-ready-rain-storms.html for a complete listing of how to prepare your home for a storm. 

If you encounter water damage, no matter the source, call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303 anytime, day or night, and we will help you clean and restore your home, “Like it never even happened.”

Our google listing for our business and the services we provide can be found at 

https://g.page/SERVPROofSiouxFalls?gm

From first notice of fire loss, through reconstruction, We’re Here to Help

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help

A fire in your home or business can be a damaging and traumatic experience. It’s an event that you know can happen, but you don’t give it much thought until it actually happens. When a fire does happen, Call SERVPRO of Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303; Fire cleanup and restoration is our business. We have the staff and know-how to help you throughout the entire process.

Worried about clothing and valuable family heirlooms? Our staff will collect, track, and clean your valuable contents. We have products created by our in-house chemists designed specifically to clean household items damaged by smoke and soot. On top of our products, we also use an ultrasonic cleaning machine to help us restore your items.

Worried about dealing with multiple contractors and strangers coming in and out of your home? Our construction team is here to put you at ease. We have the staff to help you through the whole process, from demolition to reconstruction, to handing your house back to you, “Like it never even happened.”

Musty smell in the basement?

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth behind drywall.

Can’t seem to shake that musty, damp smell in your basement? Perhaps you had a small water loss that you worked on yourself, but it took you a few days to get the area completely dry. 

If this is the case, mold could be growing in your basement. Under the right conditions, mold growth can begin within 48-72 hours of a water loss event. Give our team at SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call at 605-213-3303! We can assess your situation and get to work on drying your basement and remediating the mold! We offer free estimates for mold remediation with an expected turnaround time of two business days. If removal of drywall or any other materials is necessary after the remediation is complete, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is a licensed general contractor and we are able to help with any reconstruction. 

Commercial Duct Cleaning

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Before and After Duct Cleaning

These past several months have been unlike any that many of us have ever experienced. Businesses are closed, school are closed, churches are closed and our way of life has changed dramatically. SERVPRO Fire and Water -Cleanup and Restoration is here to help in anyway that we can. Our hearts go out to everyone that has been affected by this pandemic and know that we are all in this together.

There are things that we can assist with while your business is temporarily closed. One is to ensure good air quality when you open up again. A duct cleaning can be very beneficial to you and your employees. Having your ducts cleaned will ensure that you and your employees are coming back to a healthy and clean work environment. Often times duct cleanings are difficult to find time to do when your business is open due to time conflicts and restraints. It would be an ideal time right now to get those ducts cleaned. Our technicians use an EPA registered, hospital grade disinfectant. So not only will your ducts get cleaned but also disinfected.

There are several reasons that you should have your ducts cleaned:
• Dirty ducts can circulate odors
• It can restore peak energy efficiency
• It can remediate bacteria, fungi and mold
• It can reduce potential for mold growth

Give us a call at 605.213.3303 to schedule your duct cleaning today!

Spring is here and the flood could be too

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

Water Clean-Up

Spring has officially arrived and with the newness of tree buds and plants popping through the ground, there is also the dreaded threat of spring flooding.  Last year, South Dakota saw historical flooding and it is being forecasted that the same may hold true this year as well.   So what can you do to prevent flooding and what do you do in the event that despite your best efforts, flooding still occurs? 

To start, here are some tips to potentially alleviate your flooding risk:

• Clean and maintain gutters and downspouts
• Properly landscape your yard
• Inspect and repair foundation cracks
• Practice proper sump pump maintenance
• Inspect sewers and clean septic systems
• Install window well covers
• Get familiar with your insurance

If you have taken all of the above precautionary measures and flooding still occurs, do not fear, SERVPRO is here no matter the size of the disaster.  We are available 24 hours a day, seven (7) days a week and we are faster to any size disaster.  Here are some tips that you can do while you are waiting for us to get to you. 

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock
• Remove as much excess waster as possible by mopping and blotting. 
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Move items that you can to a safe, dry place
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet floors. 

DO NOT

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist
• Leave books, newspapers, magazine of other colored items on wet floors or carpets to cause possible staining
• Leave oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall to wall carpets to cause staining
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as it could possibly cause electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner
• Used tv’s or other appliances while standing on wet floors
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceiling are sagging from retained water.

Once we arrive, the project manager  will access the situation while our remediation expert begins to extract the water.  We will then consult with you about the best  plan of action to mitigate your flooding situation.

At SERVPRO we are always “here to help.” 

If you have any questions or would like to know about any of the other services we provide, please call us at 605.777.9055

Cruisin for a Cause

4/13/2020 (Permalink)

Residents of Tea lined up in their vehicles to meet the Easter Bunny.

As our community adjusts and adapts to social distancing, we still find ourselves wanting to see and make contact with our friends and family. The community of Tea has come up with a great idea to help us see our friends in the community. Every Saturday evening from 7-8 PM, Tea residents load up in to their vehicles and hit the roads through Tea for a leisurely cruise. Each week the town picks a theme to follow and the participants decorate their cars and dress up. An inventive solution to a new a problem we haven’t had to deal with before. It’s great to see the community finding ways to stay connected. Look for our SERVPRO green vehicles weekly during the Tea Cruise! Drive Safe!

Why SERVPRO of Sioux Falls?

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Image

Over the past several months, what used to be normal is no longer normal and as a city, state and nation, we are navigating through what a new normal looks like and whether that new normal will be on-going for months, years to come or if we will gradually get back to what “used to be,” SERVPRO of Sioux Falls hopes you find that regardless of what happens, we are still and will remain the same SERVPRO we were a week, a month, a year or 50 years ago.  Circumstances whether it be natural disaster, fires, or pandemics will not change who we are.  We pride ourselves in our integrity, ethics, the quality of work we provide and most importantly customer service.   Our customers and their safety have and will always remain our top priority.  We will always be “faster to any disaster” and our services will always be available 24 hours a day, seven (7) days a week.  While the Covid pandemic has certainly been unprecedented, it is normal every day work for us as we are prepared for anything. 

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls realizes that these times are difficult and we are here to make these difficult times easier for you in your time of need.  Our thanks go out to all the first responders, doctors and nurses and all of those that are on the front lines of the Covid crisis.  We are proud to not only service Sioux Falls and the surrounding towns, but are also proud to call this area our home. 

If you have any water, mold, fire, flooding, Covid or other emergency needs, we are here to help!!  Please call us at 605.213.3303.

Importance of Safety Training

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls team members wearing Tyvek suits.

As a team, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls meets together for a group training meeting at least once a week. This is a great opportunity to educate our staff and helps to educate the office support staff as to the day to day functions of the production team. A meeting can range from discussing the proper equipment and how to use it on a water damage call, to doing exercises where we all learn how to sketch and scope a loss. 

At this morning’s meeting we went over the procedure of donning and doffing Tyvek suits. As a company who regularly responds to mold, sewage, and bioremediation calls, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is well-versed in the process. But you know what they say, practice makes perfect. One can never be over prepared when it comes to health and safety. 

We are Cleaning Experts

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee consulting with a client.

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 Sioux Falls 605-213-3303. 

Yes, We’re Open

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Yes We’re Open Sign

In the past several months, life all around the world has changed dramatically. People are working from home, parents are adding teacher to their resume, dance, sports, cheer, prom and other extracurricular events are canceled, churches are not meeting, clerks at the grocery stores, convenience stores and elsewhere are wearing gloves to protect themselves. NYC and other normally busy cities are now quiet and still. The times are definitely unlike anything that many of us have experienced before. However, in this time of uncertainty, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls wants you to know that we are open, and we are here to help.

Unfortunately, flooding, fires and other disasters don’t stop in unprecedented times such as these. Excellent Customer Service and Safety have been and will remain our number one priority. Be assured that we have in the past and will continue to take the necessary steps and appropriate sanitation methods to ensure your well being if you find yourself needing our assistance.

If you find yourself in need, please know we are here, we are open, and we will assist you in restoring your home or business back to it’s original state “Like it never even happened.”

We are all in this together

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Photo of dog and cat - we are all in this together

How to manage stress during these unprecedented times

We live in a world where news and information are available with just a few taps on our keyboard.  Often times, that news and information isn’t always good news and lately, with the pandemic of Covid 19, it seems that uplifting stories are few and far between.  So what can we do to manage the stress most of us are feeling during these times of either self-confinement, sickness or possibly job loss or job cutbacks or all of the sudden we are faced with having your kids home and now you have had to add teacher to your job description?

First thing I would highly recommend is becoming educated on the virus, the do’s and don’ts of what to do, however, don’t become obsessed with it.  Limit the time you spend watching tv coverage about the virus. 

You can also take this time to reconnect as a family.  For years we have been glued to our phones and other obligations that seem to have chipped away at the time we spend with our families – and sitting in the same room doesn’t count as spending time together.  Put the phones down – find out what’s going on with your spouse and your kids.  How and what are they thinking about what is going on?  If they are feeling scared or down, this is a perfect time to come up with some ideas that you can all do together and lighten the atmosphere in your home.  Below are a few suggestions to start you out:

• Play games as a family
• Put together that 500 piece puzzle you bought twenty years ago and it’s still in the original wrap
• Make a list of fun self care ideas – i.e. take a long bath, work out to your 1980’s Sweatin’ to the Oldies Richard Simmons tape
• Cook together or have everyone take a night to put their favorite meal together
• Light some candles and read a good book
• Learn how to make your own cleaning supplies
• Put a care package together for an elderly person in your neighborhood and put it outside their door
• Look through old family pictures together
• Do projects around the house that you have wanted to do for some time but haven’t gotten the chance to

Remember – in time, this too shall pass and we can and will make it through this time.   Be vigilant to what you are asked to do – such as practice social distancing, home confinement, proper hand washing techniques, etc.   If we all do what we are suggested to do, this will be a memory sooner rather than later. 

We here at SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls care about our customers and our community and we are wishing you all good mental health! 

What’s that smell??

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

Mold on wood

What’s that smell?  What is that growing on the walls?  Why don’t I feel good? 

Mold is many times the culprit of a strong musty odor or what you might visibly see growing on your walls or the reason you may not feel well. When untreated water intrusion has occurred at your home or business place, it can produce mold and also an unhealthy environment.  When water damage is not addressed right away mold spores may grow and multiply.  If you find yourself with mold, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here to assist you.  Not only can we assist in water remediation but we can also assist in the remediation of mold.  Our team is professionally trained in mold remediation.  If you would like more information about mold removal, please reach out to us at 605-213-3303.  We want to get your living space or work space back to normal and “Like it never even happened.”

Spring Showers brings.........floods?

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

Photo of umbrella and rainy sky

In many South Dakota counties, 2019 proved to be a challenge with the unprecedented flooding that occurred.  In the spring of 2019 in Sioux Falls alone there was approximately $2.7 million dollars worth of damage.  Early predictions show that we are going to be faced with the same challenges in 2020 as Spring has officially begun.   SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here to help in your time of need.   Not only are we leaders in the area for our customer service, we are also committed to respond to your needs in a timely manner as time is of the essence when a loss occurs.  Our franchise specialists have the training and experience in cleanup and restoration and are equipped to get your home, business or whatever it may be back to normal “Like it never even happened.”  Call us at 605-213-3303.

Don’t Wait for a Disaster - Plan NOW!

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Too often businesses don’t think about a disaster until disaster strikes.  When it strikes we are often unprepared, stressed, scared and don’t have any idea where to start.  SERVPRO of Sioux Falls of can help!  We have a an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) that will give you the guidance you need if you find yourself face to face with a disaster.

50% of businesses may never recover following a disaster but the majority of businesses that had a preparedness plan in place did in fact survive.  

The ERP will give you the preparedness that you need to make it through any small disaster.  The ERP will give you the critical information that you will need to start mitigation and recovery services quickly and the sooner you start, the better the outcome will be in reducing total loss as well as minimizing the time that your business is inactive.  

The SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls Emergency READY Profile Advantage provides the following:

• A no cost assessment of your facility
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster
• Establishes your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.  

Call us at 605-213-3303 to get your ERP started today!!

Mold in the home

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on wall

As the season turns to spring and fresh air fills your home, you might be struck with the motivation to do some spring cleaning. Maybe you do some dusting, vacuuming, and cleaning of your windows so the sun can shine brightly through them.

Maybe the sunshine even has you feeling good enough to the point that you’re ready to tackle the growing pile of stuff in the utility room in the basement. You know, the stuff you swore you needed but ended up tucking away after one use. The time has come to donate, throw out, and de-clutter. Things are going well and you’re on your last box tucked away in the corner of your basement. Feeling triumphant you pick up the box and see a weird black fuzzy spot on the wall behind it. Uh-oh, what is that? That, my friend is mold.

Mold loves to grow unchecked in moist, dark places in your home. If the conditions are right, even a small amount of water that does not get properly dried can lead to a mold growth in the home. Which can be frustrating as a homeowner. It doesn’t take a burst pipe to cause a mold growth.

Should you find a mold growth while doing your spring cleaning, give SERVPRO of Sioux Falls a call at 605-213-3303. As your local mold damage experts, we will give you a free estimate on the work needed. We have the technicians and technology to remediate the mold growth and do any necessary reconstruction to repair your home “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls Fire Restoration

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

Home after fire damage

A fire in the home is a devastating experience. It’s hard to calculate the emotional toll a fire can have on someone, not to mention the financial and physical stress. Your whole life has been turned upside down. It seems like things can’t get better. But they will, and we’re here to help. With our proprietary cleaning chemicals we will be able to remove any soot or smoke residue and odors. 

SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has been a local leader in fire restoration services since 2014. Our team of trained professionals aim to create happy customers. We use the latest techniques and technologies to clean smoke and soot, deodorize any smoke smell, and build back your house “Like it never even happened.”

For more information, please visit the fire damage section of our website: https://www.SERVPROwestsiouxfalls.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

Get a jump start on your spring cleaning by scheduling a duct cleaning with SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Duct work before and after cleaning

The sun is shining, birds are chirping, plant life has begun anew. That’s right, its almost spring time! There is just something about the beginning of the spring season that brings me joy. Being outside, breathing the fresh air and enjoying the sunshine can do wonders for us.

Wouldn’t you want that same fresh air coursing through your house when you have the windows closed up? Believe it or not, scheduling a duct cleaning with SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls could do wonders for your respiratory system.

Scheduling a duct cleaning with SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls will give us the chance to assess and clean out your HVAC system so as to rid your home of the dust and pollen that has collected. Think of your HVAC system as the lungs of your home. Wouldn’t you want your lungs running at optimal strength? A duct cleaning can do wonders on decreasing potential allergens in the home, as well as increasing the efficiency of your HVAC system.

Call SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303 to schedule yours today!

SERVPRO at the Home Show

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Photo of SERVPRO booth at local home show

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls had the pleasure of running an exhibit at the local Sioux Empire Home Show over the weekend. It was a great opportunity for us to promote brand awareness and showcase how our services can be helpful to local homeowners. 

We had a great time explaining the value of our services to interested homeowners. A trade show like this, with thousands of attendees, was a great opportunity to show local homeowners and the businesses who cater to them how SERVPRO’S fire, water, and mold cleaning and restoration services stand out from our competitors. 

Sump Pump Awareness

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Diagram of sump pump in home.

As we have been experiencing beautiful, sunny weather as of late in Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls wanted to get you prepared for the spring thaw that is not far off. Boy, I hope I didn’t just jinx us there.

One of the most important lines of defense against water damage in the home is your sump pump. Sump pumps are often forgotten when people think about the appliances in their home. You probably haven’t thought of your sump pump unless something has gone wrong with it.

Sump pumps are typically installed at the lowest point of your home. Sump pumps are used to pump water out of your home when water levels reach your foundation. A properly functioning sump pump will kick on when water levels get too high, sending water out to help keep your basement dry. The typical sump pump runs on electricity, but if you live in an area prone to violent storms that can cause power outages you may want to consider purchasing a battery back up-operated sump pump or a water pressure-activated sump pump. The middle of a storm is a terrible time for you to discover your sump pump has failed.

If you already have a sump pump installed, we recommend testing its functionality some time before the spring rains arrive. A simple way to test your sump pump is to fill a bucket of water and then slowly fill your sump basin and see if it kicks on when water reaches a high enough level.

Should you experience any water damage in your home from a failed sump pump, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303. Our trained team of water damage professionals will clean up and restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

Extreme cold conditions

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Outside faucet frozen over with ice.

If you live in the Sioux Falls area, we don’t have to tell you how cold it was this morning. What we do want to talk about in regards to the freezing temps is the risk of frozen and burst pipes. Extreme temperature swings like the one we are currently experiencing can wreak havoc on your home.

The general cut-off temperature point to be on alert for frozen pipes is around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point pipes can begin to freeze. You may not think that would be a big concern as the internal temperature of your home is well above that. While you may be comfortable in your home, pipes that run along the outside of the house or say a kitchen sink that is against an outside wall of the house. These areas typically have less insulation.

Unfortunately it is not always possible to tell if your pipes have been frozen until they thaw and burst. This is why precaution is the best course of action. Some possible courses of action include:

• Setting taps to run on cold at the slowest possible rate of flow. Even a tiny amount of water moving through the pipes can prevent freezing.
• Set your thermostat higher than normal and open cabinets that contain pipes so they are exposed to warm air circulating throughout the house.
• Another option is to add insulation to pipes that are in un-heated areas.

Stay warm and stay safe! Should you experience any damage related to frozen and burst pipes, call SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303 and our team of water damage experts will help restore your home "Like it never even happened."

Water levels high ahead of Spring thaw

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement

Areas surrounding Sioux Falls are already at flood action stage, which means water in streams and rivers is already at or near the top of the banks. As we haven’t even entered our winter thaw season, Sioux Falls residents could be in for some costly water damage this year.

As spring rains are sure to come, its important to know the common causes of home flooding. Egress windows that are built below ground level are at specific risk for water seepage. While constructed to prevent water entering through the actual window opening, over time the structures supporting and surrounding window wells can form small cracks in which water can travel into when ground water levels are at saturation.

Another common cause to be aware of is foundation flooding. Foundation flooding can occur as foundations age, settle, and form cracks over time. It is important that your drainage gutters are far enough away from your foundation that no extra water buildup will affect its integrity. If the ground is saturated with water, that water still needs a path to follow, so any small pathway in your foundation could be exposed.

Another common cause of water damage during high water level periods is a failed sump pump. As we enter the time of the year with elevated precipitation it is crucial to make sure your sump pump is operating effectively. We recommend testing the functioning of your sump pump as well as possibly installing a second, water-pressure activated sump pump that does not run on electricity.

We at SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls are standing by to help you with any issue that arises from potential water damage!

Ribbon cutting ceremony for SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls

1/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls and community members celebrating ribbon cutting.

On January 24th, 2020, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls celebrated a ribbon cutting ceremony for our marketing department office in Tea. 

As we continue to grow as a company, we also want to grow within the communities that we serve. We appreciate the welcoming embrace we have received and hope to return that appreciation. 

Our staff was joined by members of the Tea Chamber for Development as well as some of our local business partners. 

Mold growth within three days of water loss?

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Mold growth on wall

Do you know how quickly mold can grow after a water loss? The timeframe is probably shorter than you might imagine. Given the right moisture level and temperature, mold can begin to germinate within 24-48 hours. Part of the reason people may not feel concerned regarding mold growth after a water loss is because it can take 18-21 days for this mold colony to be visible.

This is why proper drying techniques and quick response time after a water loss is crucial to avoiding mold growth. That’s where SERVPRO can help! At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls we follow the 1-4-8 response guidelines. Within one hour from notice of loss a SERVPRO franchise professional will contact you to arrange for service. Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO mitigation professional will be on-site to start mitigation services if necessary. Within eight business hours, a verbal briefing of the scope of the loss will be communicated to you by a SERVPRO Franchise Professional.

No matter the size of your water loss, call the professionals at SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls and we will assess your water loss and begin mitigation if needed!

Benefits of scheduling a regular dryer vent cleaning

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

Dryer vent well overdue for a cleaning.

At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls, we know the value of a good dryer vent cleaning. As we handle textile cleaning and drying after a water loss or home fire, we know the importance and benefits of having a clean dryer vent.

If you’re noticing your dryer takes more than one cycle to dry your clothes, this is a good indicator that you may be due for a dryer vent cleaning. Another indicator of a clogged dryer vent is a musty smell on clothing items after they have been dried.

Getting your dryer vent cleaned will greatly improve the effectiveness and efficiency of your dryer, saving you both time and significant money on your electrical bill. Regularly cleaning of your dryer vent will also help your dryer last longer.

Most importantly, regularly cleaning your dryer vent and removing clogged lint can help prevent a house fire. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 17,000 home clothes dryer fires are reported each year, causing upwards of $230,000,000 damage.

If you are experiencing issues with your dryer or you can’t remember the last time you had your dryer vents cleaned, do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls at 605-213-3303 and set up your appointment today!

Do you know the details of your insurance coverage?

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded home

If you’ve been fortunate enough to not have to file a claim before, you may not know the full extent of your coverage. Especially when it comes to dealing with water damage claims. It is better to be prepared for the worst and understand what the process of dealing with a water loss entails.

Water damage can stem from a variety of causes. In the winter months maybe it’s frozen pipes or an ice dam built up on your roof causing the damage. In the springtime, perhaps the Sioux Falls area is hit with an early spring torrential rain when the ground is still partially frozen and the rain has nowhere to be absorbed.

Even if Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas are fortunate enough to have a mild winter and spring, Mother Nature isn’t the only cause of water damage in the home. Our appliances such as water heaters and washing machines can fail and cause you to file a claim for a water loss incident.

At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls, we work closely with insurers and know the value of understanding your policy. We recommend you schedule a meeting with your agent to review your policy as soon as possible. Get ahead of the damage and know what your options are, should the worst come to pass.

The Ultrasonic cleaning process

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Before and after ultrasonic cleaning process

Any time a business acquires a piece of equipment that can improve efficiency and results, the excitement is hard to measure. At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls we are absolutely ecstatic about the newest equipment added to help the cleaning and restoration process.

The addition of an Ultrasonic cleaning machine will be a game-changer for our restoration process. You may be asking yourself, what is an Ultrasonic cleaning machine? An Ultrasonic cleaning machine is a device that uses intense vibrations to produce sound waves that produce tiny, exploding bubbles that are able to get in to every nook and cranny of the item you are trying to clean. Now if that sounds like Science Fiction to you, don’t worry, I will try to break it down a bit.

Essentially the bubbles produced by the sounds waves form and explode at such a high rate that they create heat and pressure of their own. As the bubbles explode all around the item being cleaned, dirt, grime, smoke, and other tough damage like soot is being broken down and removed off of the item. As the item is submerged in water and surrounded on every available surface, the Ultrasonic cleaning process gets to places that regular hand cleaning can not.

Say you’ve had a ceramic vase that is a family heirloom, handed down through generations. Now imagine you experience a small home fire and the vase is absolutely covered in smoke and soot damage. You’re devastated and ready to just chalk it up as a loss. This is where the Ultrasonic cleaning process comes in to save the day! The high heat of the water, the proper cleaning chemicals, and the ultrasonic cleaning process all combine to clean your contents, “Like it never even happened.”

The Ultrasonic cleaning machine is able to handle all sorts of contents, from clothing and jewelry to finished wood and electronics. Yes, even electronics! After removing electronics from the machine, we are able to dry them with out blow dry gun so they are able to properly dry and function correctly when re-assembled.

Cleaning contents after a fire

12/31/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls unboxing new cleaning equipment.

Unless you’ve experienced a home fire, you may not be familiar with all the mess and stress that comes with it. Reconstruction, new paint and carpet, and new light fixtures probably come to mind. One area that may not be familiar when it comes to fire damage is contents damage. This can cover clothes, dressers, lamps, anything that isn’t a structural part of your home. Your first thought is that those items are probably discarded and replaced. 

It doesn’t have to be that way. SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls specializes in contents cleaning stemming from fire damage. 

We recently added an ultrasonic cleaning machine to our cleaning equipment arsenal and are excited for its potential. We will now be able to clean your valuables in an even more effective and efficient manner. 

We do this because we care. We know you have special items that hold sentimental value and we will do our best to return them to mint condition! 

Help! Our dream house has a mold infestation!

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

Mold colony

Imagine going through the home buying process for months before finally settling on your dream home. All the leg work is done, you’re just waiting on the inspection and closing paperwork.

Everything is moving in the right direction until the home inspection report comes back and shows a mold infestation in the attic. What do you do now?

Don’t panic! You will still be able to purchase your Harrisburg area dream home! Call SERVPRO of  Sioux Falls at (605)213-3303 and we will send a team of trained mold mitigation specialists out to asses your home. We offer free estimates with a two business day turn around on estimates. Let us take care of the hard work and we will clean up, restore, and build back your dream home “Like it never even happened.”

Winter Storm Approaching 11-27/11-29

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Power lines coated in ice

To all SERVPRO customers in Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas, be prepared for a winter storm starting the evening of December 27th and continuing on through Monday December 30th. West and North of Sioux Falls are predicted to get the heaviest snowfall. However, freezing rain before the snow will be the real danger to look out for.

Heavy freezing rain can weigh down power lines and cause power outages. For more information on preparing for a winter storm Please refer to our recent blog.

After the storm passes, be sure to read Our blog on preventing and treating ice dams.

Should anything happen to your home, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is standing by 24/7 to help you clean up, restore, and build back “Like it never even happened.”

Dealing with Sewage Backup

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Sewage backup in bathroom

Imagine coming home after a lovely holiday vacation and your Tea area home smells like a sewer. Understandably, both the smell and the scale of the damage has overwhelmed you and you don’t know what to do.

Fear not, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has you covered. We have staff standing by 24/7 to help you deal with a sewer back up. Our staff of trained water damage professionals will clean the sewage up and disinfect the area. Should any materials need to be removed and replaced, SERVPRO will handle that for you as well as we a licensed general contractor, equipped to handle all of your construction needs.

Should the worst happen in your home, call (605)213-3303 and SERVPRO of Sioux Falls will help you restore your home “Like it never even happened.”

Steps to take after fire in the home

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Home after a fire, and then the same home after restoration.

So you’ve had a fire in your home. Maybe someone left a candle burning over night. Perhaps you had to step away from the stovetop popcorn and the oil spilled and started a small fire. 

Whether it be a small kitchen fire or multi-level structure damage from a fire, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here to help. 

After the immediate danger from the fire subsides the first step as a homeowner is to file a claim with your insurer. Once this process is begun, the next step is searching for a restoration and mitigation company. This is where SERVPRO is ready to help.

Our team of professionally trained fire damage technicians are ready 24/7 to help take all of the worry out of your hands. At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls we are able to help throughout the process of dealing with fire damage. Our technicians will be able to pack out any contents deemed salvageable and start restoring them to their original condition. 

Our teams are trained in mitigating and cleaning smoke damage from your home. As we have our own construction teams in place we will do as much work as possible in house to simplify the process for both the insured and the insurer. 

Our staff deeply cares about providing a happy experience for the customer. We know that a fire in the home can be a traumatic experience. Our goal here at SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is to clean up, restore, and build back your home “Like it never even happened.”

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Awareness

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

One home safety issue that is often overlooked is Carbon Monoxide poisoning. As Carbon Monoxide, or CO, is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas, it can be near impossible to detect without proper equipment. 

What causes Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon Monoxide is produced in the home by appliances and engines that burn fuel for a source of energy. CO poisoning is caused when these appliances or engines are not properly vented. 

Symptoms of CO poisoning

Carbon Monoxide poisoning can manifest itself in a variety of symptoms. The most common include: Dizziness, shortness of breath, blurred vision, nausea and vomiting, confusion, and loss of consciousness. As CO poisoning can quickly become deadly in high concentrations it is key to know the symptoms. Immediate steps need to be taken to receive fresh air and seek medical assistance. 

How to prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Install CO detectors in your home wherever you have a sleeping area. Check their status as often as you do with smoke detectors. 

• Always back your car out of the garage when warming it up during cold winter months. Even a car running in the garage door with the door open can cause significant CO buildup. 
• Use your gas burning appliances as directed by manufacturers. Never use stove or oven to heat your home. 
• Keep your fuel burning appliances properly vented and consider having a professional asses your CO producing appliances regularly.

Preventing and addressing ice dams

12/16/2019 (Permalink)

Ice dam along roof

You may be entranced by the beauty of icicles hanging in the winter time. We even decorate our holiday trees with faux icicles. Unfortunately, these pretty growths can come with a nasty underbelly. 

What causes ice dams?

Icicles hanging off your structure more often than not means you have a build of ice restricting the flow of melt water off of your roof, commonly known as an ice dam. 

As snow on your roof melts from sunlight and internal heat produced by your HVAC system, it runs down where it can freeze when it reaches the eaves, where internal heat from the structure does not reach. 

As the ice dam builds in the eaves, fresh meltwater will try to run off but will get blocked by the ice dam. As this water needs somewhere to disperse, it has a tendency to seep into the structure through the shingles. Water damage from an ice dam can cause numerous headaches for the home owner. 

How can SERVPRO help? If you have damage from an ice dam this winter, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls is here to help. Our expertly trained staff of water loss professionals are able to help you with any damage that stems from an ice dam. We are here to clean up, restore, and build back your home “Like it never even happened.” 

Signs you may have mold in your home

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Household mold.

Mold can be a tricky problem to deal with. Some mold colonies may be wreaking havoc without your knowledge as they aren’t always easily visible. As mold growths stem from a moisture source, such as a leak, we might not notice unless the leak is substantial enough to have caused other damage. 

Be on the lookout for the following signs of mold:

• Condensation: places where condensation regularly accumulates, such as a small bathroom with shower.
• Musty odor: If you’re home has a damp, musty, strange smell, this may be a sign of mold.
• Look for Warping: Moisture in materials such as drywall can lead to warping. If warping is present you may want to test the area.

What to do if you spot mold: 

If you do find a mold colony, there are steps you can take to try and clean on your own. 

However, if the problem is too large or you are concerned about the associated health risks and want your mold treated by trained professionals, Give SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls a call. We are standing by 24/7 to help you make it “Like it never even happened”. 

Happy Holidays from SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO ornament

From our family to yours, we would like to wish you a Happy Holiday season! During this joyous time, we hope you spend ample time with friends and family alike. 

We here at SERVPRO want to provide you peace of mind this holiday season. Know that if anything should happen to your home this holiday season, we are here to help! Our trained staff of restoration professionals is available 24/7 to respond faster to any size disaster. 

Holiday Fire Safety

11/27/2019 (Permalink)

Flames from oil fire

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls would like to wish a happy and safe Thanksgiving for all! Nothing beats gathering around the dinner table with family and friends to enjoy a bountiful feast. 

With the added chaos of extra visitors around the house, residents need to be aware of this risks and how best to prevent fire damage. 

As our picture can attest, a house fire can do a lot of damage in a small time frame. 

Tips for avoiding Holiday Fire Damage:

• If you plan on frying a turkey be sure that it is fully thawed before frying. 
• Keep the fryer on a flat, level surface, away from any buildings or wood structures. 
• Use proper techniques and kitchen tools. 
• Never leave the fryer unattended. 
• Should a fire break out, prevent fire damage by having a fire extinguisher on hand, do not use water to put out an oil fire. 
• Keep an eye on all stovetop-cooked foods.
• Do not leave candles burning unattended. 
• Keep hot or flammable objects out of the reach of children. 
• Be smart, safe, and have fun!

If the worst case scenario does happen, know that SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here to help. Our team of fire damage Franchise Professionals will be there to help mitigate smoke and soot damage, and will build back your damaged home “Like it never even happened.”

Benefits of duct cleaning

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

Before and after duct cleaning

As we get to the colder months of the year and we use our forced air systems more consistently, it can be a great reminder to look in to getting your ducts cleaned. The standard recommendation is to get your ducts cleaned every 3-5 years. 

Let’s first discuss some of the negative affects of having dirty ductwork. Dust, mold spores, and pollen tend to collect in air vents. These three contaminants can cause a variety of respiratory issues. Residents with allergies or asthma can be greatly affected by the air quality they breathe. 

Getting your ducts cleaned can help prevent issues arising from contaminants in the airflow system. Benefits to duct cleaning include:

• Improvement of air quality
• Increased energy efficiency helping to save money
• Fewer allergens disrupting everyday life
• Can remove unpleasant scents

How can SERVPRO help?

We at SERVPRO offer duct inspection and cleaning services. Call us to schedule an appointment and we will send a team to assess your ductwork and take the necessary steps to improve your air quality.

We’re Here to Help

How to prevent frozen pipes

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Damage from frozen and burst pipes.

Frozen pipes can happen to anyone. Businesses, homeowners, renters, frozen water doesn’t differentiate. A typical burst pipe stems from a build up of pressure between the water source and the blockage, in this instance, frozen water. 

Most common causes of burst pipes: 

• Piping that runs against exterior walls, as they do not have the typical insulation.
• Pipes that are in unhealthy eated areas of the structure such as under stairs or in basements. 
• Pipes that are exposed to external conditions such as outdoor hose lines.

Best methods for preventing frozen pipes:

• Try to periodically get heat to pipes that are in unheated  areas such as under cabinets. A simple solution would be to open the cabinet and let the warm air circulate.
• Improve insulation around pipes that are unprotected. 
• Keep your structure’s temperature well above freezing when gone for extended lengths above time, ideally no lower than 55 degrees. 

How SERVPRO can help!

If you find yourself with damage resulting from a burst pipe, the immediate aftermath can be overwhelming. We are here to help! SERVPRO mitigation and restoration specialists are ready 24/7 to respond to your emergency. We aim to respond in a timely manner and help you clean up, dry down, and build back your structure “like it never even happened”. Our aim is to provide top notch service and peace of mind. 

Mold Training for Property Managers

10/29/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Training for Property Managers

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls recently held a breakfast meeting for this group of Property Managers to educate them about mold. Mold growth occurs from moisture that has not properly been cleaned up. Most people don’t realize that it’s not just serious water damage, such as flooding or a visible leak that leads to mold. Any kind of leak that isn’t properly fixed can cause mold to grow. Wet will migrate to dry. An example is a small area of carpet that is wet four feet from the wall. If this is not dried properly the moisture will work its way to the wall where it’s dry and cause further damage, most times going unnoticed. As many of these managers have seen, moisture will also build up from not running exhaust fans in laundry rooms, kitchens and bathrooms and not running AC units. Mold can begin to grow and spread in 24 to 48 hours under the right conditions so taking care of the source of the problem is critical to preventing mold growth. SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here help, whether it be through educating or doing the cleanup of mold. Call us today to schedule your next staff training.

September EF-2 Tornadoes

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Some of the damage to this commercial site caused by the tornado.

Three EF-2 tornadoes tore through the Sioux Falls metro area on September 10^th around midnight. They caused significant damage to businesses and residences, 37 in all. This commercial site had damage from the rooftop units being ripped off and tumbling across the roof. The building sustained heavy water damage to the contents and flooring. SERVPRO’s project managers and technicians, along with assistance from our large loss partners, were able to start the cleanup process the next morning. Large generators were used to supply power for the drying and cleanup equipment. Many hands make little work on projects of this size and we are so grateful to all that helped. We are proud to say that in a little over a week the business was able to re-open after this devastating storm. SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is here to make it "Like it never ever happened."

Nobody Wants To Come Home To This!

9/4/2019 (Permalink)

Devastating to return home to this

Of all the fires reported in the United States every year, 31 percent happen in residential homes. Negligence, open flames, cooking and more are factors in these fires. Half of all house fires start in the kitchen. Not surprising since it’s where you do the most cooking and house many appliances. The dinner hour, between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m. is when most fires happen. The picture is showing a devastating kitchen fire that was likely caused by a small appliance. All levels of the home have a thick covering of black soot and will require demolition and rebuild. Appliances account for about 4 percent of house fires. Here’s some appliance safety tips to follow to decrease your chances of something malfunctioning and catching on fire. Make sure it’s UL approved, never plug them into an extension cord or two-slot outlet and unplug anything, within reason, when you’re on vacation.

SERVPRO’s compassionate staff was there to help this family during the initial walk through to look at the extent of the damage, talk with the adjuster and will continue to be there for them into the pack out phase, demolition and rebuild. Our hearts go out to this family and we’re glad that we’re faster to any size disaster to make this difficult situation as little easier for them.

Mold Prevention

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

There is no practical way to eliminate all of the molds and mold spores in the indoor environment.  But there are ways to help control moisture and mold growth in your home.  Here is a partial list:

Stop the water

• Fix leaks in pipes, and any damp areas around tubs and sinks.
• Rebuild, or retrofit with water resistant building materials.
• Prevent seepage of water from outside by have the ground around the house slope away and gutters drain away.  
• Cover dirt crawlspaces with plastic to prevent moisture from coming from the ground.

Keep it clean

• Clean fabrics often and keep them dry.  Soil promotes mildew growth.  Keep clean fabric items in a well ventilated area.
• Have air ducts cleaned if you suspect mold exists on the duct's inside surface, or if duct insulation has been wet.

Keep it dry

• In hot weather, reduce moisture by using dehumidifiers, fans, air conditioners and open windows.  Do NOT use fans if mold may already exist.
• Keep humidity below 40%.
• Choose carpets of man-made fibers for moisture prone areas.
• Reduce condensation on cold surfaces by insulating.

Disinfect it

• Bathrooms, laundry rooms and mechanical rooms need to be routinely checked for moldy odors, and disinfect often with a 10% solution of bleach or a commercial disinfectant

Getting Educated

8/12/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you are a small business or a multi unit housing complex we are here to teach you about SERVPRO and all the services we provide.  Call Melissa today to schedule a lunch and learn at your office for any size group.  We cover everything from spot cleaning carpets to major restorations due to fire or water damage.  A popular topic has been the emergency ready profile that we can create for your company so if a disaster happens we can react faster to minimalize the damage.  Call 605-368-0363 to reserve a time today!

Terminology Used in Mold Cleanup

8/6/2019 (Permalink)

The first term you might hear is mitigation. Mitigation means reducing the severity, seriousness or painfulness of something. SERVPRO’s goal is to reduce the severity of mold to a safe level in your home or business. The photo shows a basement wall with mold. Mold loves to grow on organic materials such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation. The plastic covering the stud wall and insulation is called vapor barrier. Contractors use this to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls of a basement by stapling it to the frame of the wall before drywall is hung. It also helps to keep a basement insulated and warm. When our technicians identify mold, it is critical to isolate it so it is not disturbed and sent airborne. Using containment does exactly this. Containment can be as simple as closing a door to the room and not allowing anyone in there or having to use plastic sheeting to enclose the area. Mold is one of the most common problems we see and we are proud to have qualified SERVPRO staff ready to help you 24/7/365 with your needs. Call us today at 605-213-3303.

Have An Emergency Ready Profile In Place

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, strike back with the Emergency Ready Profile app and get back to your vacation

Did you know that 50% of businesses will not reopen after a disaster? And 75% of those that did reopen had some type of preparedness plan in place?

You don’t show up to the OK Corral for a gun fight to step in and see if you have enough bullets. Nor would you want to be in the middle of a disaster trying to prepare for it.

Disasters seem to happen when you are away from the office or on vacation. What information do you need with you, 7/24, in order to manage a crisis remotely? SERVPRO has developed a really cool app that organizes information for you to have at your fingertips. So when you’re sitting on the beach in Hawaii and receive a call saying that your office building has flooded, you can, at the touch of a finger, pull up information as to where to shut-off the gas or water from your beach chair. SERVPRO, at no cost, will prepare an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) to help us become more familiar with your property and therefore, can respond faster, mitigating secondary damage. This also gives owners/managers a snapshot of your building for an immediate plan of action. This way you know in advance what to do, who to call and what to expect, saving you time and money.

If you’re a commercial property owner/manager interested in having an ERP in place, give SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls a call today.

Rain Rain Go Away

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Above Average Year

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. This year’s moisture has been near record breaking. We have been able to help many Sioux Falls homes and business clean up, dry down, and build back. 

Faster to Any Size Disaster

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Sioux Falls, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

After The Storm

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Mold growing on wall damaged by water coupled by high humidity

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is not accurate. Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet. Mold spore thrive on moisture and can quickly form into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants. A strong, musty odor can lead you to a possible mold problem area. Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed, otherwise the mold may return. Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth so keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

If you are concerned about indoor air quality or possible mold damages let SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls help investigate and make a plan to attack the mold. 

Vandalism

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

If your Sioux Falls business falls victim to vandalism, we are here to help. 

Vandals can cause a variety of destruction from broken items, structural damage to windows, doors, walls, etc. They not only cause psychical destruction but they also rob your sense of security. 

No one appreciates having his or her property vandalized.  Dealing with things like graffiti can be stressful.  

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls understands the emotions surrounding the events and aftermath of such acts.

We have the ability to help navigate through the steps to clean up and rebuild the damages caused by acts of vandalism and work with your insurance company.

The photo below shows a wall that was painted vandals. We have the expertise in cleaning methods and products to erase it “Like it never even happened."

Continuing Education Course on Fire

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

Attendees using the SERVPRO products

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls recently hosted a continuing education course for insurance professionals. The course was designed to teach and explain the special procedures used by SERVPRO professionals in mitigating and restoring fire damage claims for the insured. The course provided the insurance professionals with a better understanding of the work performed by the mitigation vendor at fire damage work sites. Participants had hands on training using products that SERVPRO technicians will use to clean surfaces after a fire. Emergency tips were given which can drastically reduce the cost of the claim if performed in a timely manner. Some of the tips are: Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from spreading and additional damage from occurring, place clean towels or old linens on rugs and high traffic areas and upholstery, coat chrome faucets, trim and appliances with petroleum jelly or oil and place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpet. Examples of work performed to mitigate fire damage were shared. The course helped give agents and adjusters a better understanding of what their insured goes through when they have fire damage.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls Receives Outstanding Performance Award

7/26/2019 (Permalink)

Adam and Jessica Birger, Owner's of SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls

As Published in the Tea Weekly Newspaper July 19, 2019

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls received the PRESIDENT’S Gold award at SERVPRO’s recent 50^th Annual Convention. The event, themed “Making History,” was held in Sacramento, California, where the company was founded.

“It is always gratifying to earn a distinction for our business,” said Adam Birger, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls Owner, “but it feels especially good this year. We are proud to be a member of the SERVPRO franchise family as the company celebrates 50 years of franchising success. SERVPRO’s ongoing commitment to providing innovative tools, ongoing training, and an ever-evolving business framework gives entrepreneurs like us a roadmap for success. We are proud to be part of SERVPRO’s team of dedicated disaster remediation professionals, and to know that we have both the tools and the knowledge to serve home and business owners in our community should the need arise.”

The company’s 50^th Annual Convention was a celebration of the company’s history and a showcase of small business best practices and cutting-edge restoration and remediation technology. The event featured a variety of workshops and group sessions ranging across 37 different topics. Attendees gained knowledge and hands-on experience to help them build and grow their businesses and strengthen ties with both residents and businesses in their local communities. Highlights of the convention included a keynote address by motivational speaker Jon Gordon and an awards ceremony recognizing the achievements of top-performing franchisees.

“SERVPRO has come a long way since Ted and Doris Isaacson started the company as a painting business in Sacramento in 1967,” said Rick Isaacson, chief executive officer of SERVPRO. “In 1969, they used their cleanup and restoration background to take their new company in a different direction and never looked back. SERVPRO’s professional services network now includes more than 1,700 individually owned and operated franchises across the U.S. and Canada. Our annual convention brings this diverse group of entrepreneurs together to learn from industry experts and gives us an opportunity to recognize our top-performing franchises. We are incredibly proud of each of these dedicated professionals and the world-class service they provide to their customers and their communities.”

Smoke Damage after a Fire

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Glass vase with heavy wet soot

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate soft goods, small openings and anywhere in your home, causing hidden damage and odor.

We master smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (605) 213-3303

Indoor Air Quality For Commercial Businesses

7/10/2019 (Permalink)

Intrusion of water into your place of business can result in mold growth.  Water intrusions can result from Sioux Falls recent storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. 

When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.  Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments.  If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged business environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply.  Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish.  Excessive mold growth can lead to the business having indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat. We want to keep your staff happy and healthy.

To have SERVPRO evaluate your Sioux Falls commercial restoration needs, give us a call at (605) 213-3303.

Document Restoration

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Helping Businesses Save Their Information

Did you know that SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls has the ability to save important documents? 

Many business have vital documents that are key to operating their businesses and housing information for their clients. Patient records, attorney files, and other financial information. What would you do if suddenly these documents have been damaged by fire, water, mold, or sewage?

Recovery Process

After water damage or fire damage our Sioux Falls team will be there to help. 

Packing

We carefully pack the damaged documents in banker boxes often lined with plastic to help protect them. 

Freezing

Damaged documents should be frozen as quickly as possible to stabilize them, and prevent further damage. 

(HIPAA) Compliance 

What is HIPAA?

HIPAA requires the protection and confidential handling of protected health information (PHI) and is considered the gold standard for handling all documents. 

Why HIPAA is important:

Medical professionals by law cannot release PHI (Protected Health Information) to just anyone. With that being said, covered entities (Hospitals, Physicians, etc.) cannot release PHI for recovery and/or restoration to anyone unless that Business Associate (BA) is HIPAA compliant. This is to ensure that their patient records are being handled properly and with minimal risk for any PHI to be compromised.

HIPAA Certifications

Our team members are Master HIPAA certified, allowing them to handle PHI.
This certification allows us not only to handle PHI, but tells Covered Entities that we are held to a high standard and can and will be held accountable if any information is compromised.

Chain of Custody

Chain of Custody must be maintained according to HIPAA guidelines.

Chain of Custody is the tracking of sensitive documents (or any documents) through a process. This depicts whose hands the documents passed through and when, allowing any company to track down any leaks of sensitive information (if such situation where to occur).

Chain of Custody is crucial when handling sensitive documentation, especially when dealing with protected health information (Commonly Referred to as PHI).

Inventory

Inventories are an essential part of the process. Many items are critical that might be needed at any moment, having a detailed inventory will assist with locating essential documents that are needed on an emergency basis. 

Drying Process – Sublimation:

 The direct conversion of a solid (Ice) into a gas (water vapor), without passage through a liquid stage.

 Vacuum Freeze Drying is the only method that is approved by NARA (National Archives and Records Administration) and the GSA (General Services Administration).

• Gamma Irradiation
• Digitization
• Certified Destruction/Incineration
• Cleaning
• Deodorizing

Our processes will deliver your businesses vital documents clean, dry, and free of bacteria and other microorganisms. Helping your business get back to normal.

Restore or Replace

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

In progress results of the restoration progress.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls delivers on the promise of restoring your home after a fire.

After a fire, the soot penetrates all of your home’s furnishings. Our team will go through every item and determine what is restorable and inventory items that cannot be salvaged.

There are many variables that go into determining what should go through the restoration process or be replaced. 

Determinations are made depending on the type of soot, how close the item was to the source of the fire, the material affected, and the value of the item. 

Every home is unique as well as every fire. Our team carefully assesses the damages and involves you and your insurance company in every step to draft a plan and timeline to restore your home.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is committed to helping make it “Like it never even happened."

Removing Fire Odors

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

Odors from smoke and fire damage can be hard to remove. The odors are complex. Fire damage odors depend on several factors; what materials burned in the home, how hot the fire was, and length of time damages sit before cleanup. 

At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls, we understand the process of contents restoration.  We take a restore vs. replace approach, saving our customers time and money. 

Ozone is one method that we use to deodorize items after cleaning them.  When used properly, this is a very effective method.  Used improperly, it can be dangerous or ineffective. 

We have a variety of cleaning and deodorizing methods based on science and years of specialized training. Every odor is unique and must be handled differently. Remember that who you choose to clean after a fire is one of the most important decisions you can make and choosing SERVPRO we will remove that smell, "Like it never even happened."

Detecting Moisture

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

How do you know if something is really dry? You can tell by looking at it, right? What about touching it, that surely shows that it’s dry.

When water initially invades your home or business you can visualize the water. Most people rely on their sense of sight and touch to determine if a material is dry. This often leads to thinking that after the initial water has been cleaned up that it’s dry.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls has a variety of tools and knowledge to detect moisture where it is not seen or felt. 

The picture shows one of our moisture detecting tools. This moisture meter penetrates a material such as drywall and it reads the moisture content. This reading tells us if the material is still wet or dry. 

Next time you have water invade your home or business let the professionals help you determine if it is truly dry.

Why do I need a professional?

6/19/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is an IICRC firm. What does this mean, anyway? Why is this important? It is very important to know when choosing a restoration company. If a company that states they perform restoration services and isn't properly educated it would be like handling the restoration from your fire, mold, water, or storm damage yourself. 

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. 

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls specializes in the cleanup, drying, and rebuilding of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage or storm event. 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.

SERVPRO Science

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Developing restoration cleaning products

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls utilizes specialized professional cleaning products.  SERVPRO not only manufactures and distributes these products, we have chemists on staff that develop our propriety products. 

This allows us to have a good solution for most situations.  We can clean things like rust, marker, soot, or even tricky red stains from carpets.  We clean soot from walls, ceilings, even hard and soft contents.  We also clean up bio-hazard materials  such as trauma scenes. 

Because of our arsenal of products, we are able to clean, deodorize, disinfect almost anything we encounter.  Not all companies can say they have the resources to do that. 

When fire damage, water damage, mold, duct cleaning, carpet cleaning or specialty stain removal services are needed, we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls at (605) 213-3303.

Mold Rampages Sioux Falls Homes

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

Don't let mold get out of control

This year has brought a lot of water to our area. Meteorologist state this has been one of the wettest springs on record. 

Mold colonies begin to multiply as moisture sits in a material for too long. With moisture fueling this food source coupled by heat and humidity, mold can quickly spread. 

We use state of the art Thermal Imaging to help make sure our inspection of your home is thorough. We also have the ability to conduct indoor air quality testing. These samples help tell us what types of mold are present in the air and give us a count of spores to determine if they are in normal ranges. 

If you see anything or smell anything that you think might be mold, contact us immediately to come do an inspection.  Your health can be compromised from exposure to mold, and you don't want to put it off. Have us come help you get back "Like it never even happened." 

Teapot Days 2019

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

Join us for Teapot Days!

June is one of our favorite times of the year. Celebrating Teapot Days in Tea, SD! The four days of events are full of fun, family, and celebrating our amazing town!

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is located in Tea, SD. In addition to operating locally our leadership team and two members of crew also call Tea home. We are fiercely proud or our Titans, schools, churches, First Responders and entire community. 

We are excited for the carnival rides provided by Mighty Thomas Carnival. This is always an amazing time to spend with the family. 

We love participating in the parade. We enjoy seeing the kids' eyes open wide seeing our green SERVPRO vehicles and then the sweet candy flying out the windows and hands of our own SERVPRO family. 

The festivities wind down on Saturday with an outstanding fireworks display followed by a night of dancing in the streets. 

Supporting Local Associations

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

South Dakota Claims Association 

Any organization is only as good as its membership. The members of the SDCA are fantastic and we are proud of our membership and support to the organization. Their organization is a valuable resource for SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls and the all the other vendors that are involved in property, liability, and auto claims. 

 The South Dakota Claims Association provides claims professionals and associated professionals the opportunity to learn more and make valuable connections within the claims industry. Their learning opportunities and events provide a broad range in diverse areas important to the claims professional.

If you are a claims professionals that has been a past member, seasoned adjuster,  or new to the claims industry. The SDCA offers you additional and increased valuable networking opportunities as well as educational topics which improve your career, your organizations, your institution knowledge, and your personal relationships. Check out their website to learn more www.sdclaimsassociation.com and be part of a great organization!

Grandma's Ducks

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

When you hire SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls we not only restore your home we bring your memories back to life. 

Saving Memories

Monica came home to smoke pouring out of her windows. She was in complete awe of what was happening. The fire department knocked out the fire in twenty minutes. 

Once she was able to tour her home, she was completely overwhelmed. She was at a loss for words and overcome by so many emotions. It was SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls' privilege to help Monica and her family. 

We not only were able to clean, deodorize, and rebuild her home; we helped restored memories. The first picture seems like an ordinary duck, full of soot and odor.  You could probably go to a local retail store and purchase a new one. This was not the story. The duck was an important memory; Monica shared that the duck was her grandmother's and when she passed away she made sure she was able to keep it. It reminded her of Grandma's cookies and the fun times as a child. We were able to clean this precious memory and Monica was elated. 

Intelligent Targeting Drying

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Committed to adding new equipment to help dry homes and business faster.

Patented Target Drying Technology

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is proudly introducing our new Wall & Floor System. This targeted drying mat is a patented solution that dramatically improves drying times compared with conventional methods. Precisely distributed micro-jets of heated airflow are targeted directly on to the water damaged materials. 

Heating the structure and wet materials helps to increase the diffusion rate of water bound within the material; resulting in significantly reduced drying times. 

The heated drying system can attack deeper floods, more extreme wicking, or a leak that started inside your wall. The mats work equally well on all types of construction, and the precision heat created by the targeted mats are safe for concrete, block, brick, wood studs and drywall construction, or even plaster.

That's the technical side; What does this mean for your home our business? Traditional drying methods with just air movers alone average from 3 to 5 days. Utilizing the targeted heat drying could reduce the drying cycle up to 50% saving time and costs, getting you back to "Like it never even happened." faster. 

" Old House Smell"

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

What is that smell?

Ever walk into a house are greeted, more like slapped in the face, with a mysterious stench? That stale or old house smell?

There are few things that homes share that could be causing the odor: Poor ventilation, darkness, and high humidity. 

Scientifically speaking, this stench is likely the off gassing of chemicals associated with a stage in the life cycle of mold or MVOCS. They are evaporating and causing the odors. 

How can I get rid of the smell?

Start by checking the humidity level in the home. Ideally the relative humidity should be under 45%. If your readings are higher you should invest in a dehumidifier. 

Check for any moisture leaks such as from a faucet, drain, lines from your furnace or soft water heater. Fix any leaks even if they are small. SERVPRO can investigate your humidity levels and perform a moisture inspection to ensure the home is dry.  

Carpet and soft furniture in the home will absorb that smell and retain it. These items should be professionally cleaned to eliminate the odor. SERVPRO is happy to help clean these materials with our hot water extraction method. 

Sometimes it's where you can't see, the lungs of the home. The furnace and duct system. Those pesky odors, dander, dust, and bacteria are recirculating the odors. Our hepa- filtration system can clean the duct system and we also have options for deodorizing or sealing the duct work rid odors. 

You're proud of keeping a clean house, yet don't forget about the walls. With heating and cooling the pores in your walls open and close and odors will permeate the walls trapping odor. 

Lastly, for deodorization Let the sun shine in! The sun is a powerful deodorizer and disinfectant. You can also place coffee grounds in an old nylon stocking and place behind doors, in closets, and on top of kitchen cabinets. The coffee grounds will absorb the odors and have your home smelling like a cup of fresh brew. 

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls has a wide array of products, processes, and experience to help rid your home of those lingering odors. 

Major cause of water damage to basements

4/30/2019 (Permalink)

Have you checked on me lately?

Walking down the neighborhoods in Tea, SD; I begin to see a familiar site. Most homes have a sump pump hose discharging in the city drains. You can hear the sounds of rushing water and see the hoses expand with flowing water. 

Sump pumps are installed into a sump pit. Water flows into the pit either through drain tile or naturally by the soil. The sump pump's top function is to pump the water out of the pit and away from your home. 

It is important to periodically check your sump pump to ensure it is properly running. In addition to checking the pump, make sure to look at your drain hose to ensure it is not blocked, plugged, and pointing away from the house. 

Sump pump failures can cause major damage to your basement. Costs can far exceed $5,000 for drying the home and all the repairs depending on the size of your living space. We have seen some water damage losses from sump pump failure exceed $15,000. Reach out to your insurance agent and double check to see if you are covered and what limits of coverage apply to you. 

Nationwide Heroes Banding Together

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

When a large commercial building suffers a catastrophic event such as water damage, fire, or storm damage, it can be hard to find a restoration company with enough bandwidth to handle the job. You may think of SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls as your friendly, neighborhood clean-up and restoration company, which we are! Yet, did you  know that since we belong to the SERVPRO franchise system, we are well-equipped to handle any disaster even faster? Whether it's 2 am on a Saturday night or in the middle of the day.

Much like superheroes banding together to fight against a powerful enemies, SERVPRO franchises are also able to band together to clean-up and restore your commercial property disaster. We’ve responded to many large losses and worked together as one solid team to help businesses get back to working condition. You will “marvel” at what we’re able to do together.

While SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is your trusted source for clean-up and restoration, we’re also the powerhouse that can drive the restoration process for any large disaster. It may look like an end-of-the-world event, rest assured our teams are qualified to handle it from beginning to “Endgame”. You can trust us to “SHIELD” you from any additional worries and be the “Avengers” to restore any size disaster you face and make it, "Like it never even happened."

Faster to Any Size Disaster

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Any day, any time!

From responding to a commercial water loss at 1 am in less than an hour, to traveling two hours for a residential loss that the local  restoration company said they couldn't get to that night or the next day.  We were able to help at a multi level apartment building when other restoration companies had failed to respond for DAYS after the loss. Three hundred sixty five days a year. Anytime day or night. We are Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

Our focus is on you when you have a loss, large or small and we try to always respond in a timely manner. The difference is, We Care Because We've Been There. 

We strive to always be there when you need us.  Please call 605-213-3303 when you need help.

Local Best

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Vote for us at https://thelocalbest.com/vote/212509/

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is proud of the Sioux Falls community. Our residents make our area an amazing place to work, raise our families, and strengthen our relationships with one another. 

Over the last several years we have seen so many devastating damages to homes. Whether water damaged your home by: heater malfunction, sump pumps overflow, burst pipes. Or a roaring fire smoked up or caused significant damage to your property. We have been there to clean up, dry down, and rebuild "Like it never even happened."

We thank all of our amazing customers for the last five years and look forward to serving you for many more!

Having the best customers make it easy to be a BEST business. We appreciate your vote in this year's Local Best competition. Vote for us at the following link,  VoteUsLocalBest

Spring Cleaning- Duct Systems

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

Is your duct system making you sick?

Our furnace systems are the lungs of our home. The duct system filters and cycles air through out the home. Over the winter homes have been sealed up allowing allergens, dirt, pet dander, and dust, cooking odors, and bacteria to constantly circulate.

This time of year is a great time to have your ducts cleaned. Indoor air quality is important to everyone, especially those that suffer allergies or who suffer from chronic illnesses.  It's recommended to have your ducts cleaned every 3-5 years. 

Give us a call to schedule your appointment today and we will revive the lungs of the home. Increasing efficiency, reducing the need to dust, reducing allergens, reducing harmful bacteria, odor and increasing overall indoor air quality. Creating a healthier happier home.

DIY - Lessons Learned

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

DIY

Problem:

Jack's dishwasher overflowed onto his kitchen laminate floor and the water also traveled to living room carpet.  Jack states "It's just a little water on the floor. I cleaned it up with my shop vac. It's no big deal. Everything is fine. Why would I need to call a water restoration company?"

Jack was feeling pretty confident that he cleaned up all the water himself and now all that was left was to sit down and watch the much anticipated football game.

Several days passed and the dishwasher overflow was a distant memory, until Jack's wife arrived home from a week long business trip. She looks around and asks Jack, "What is that SMELL? What did you do to the kitchen floor? What is that brown spot on the ceiling downstairs?"

The kitchen floor had started to curl and warp as water was trapped underneath. There was a large unsightly stain on the ceiling in the family room below the kitchen. Mold was starting to spread near the stain. The carpet pad was saturated in the living room and the lower level family room. All these wet materials contributed to the awful stench in the home.

Professionals:

Solution:

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls understands what, where, why, and how water damage affects your home or business. Our commitment to training and education in our industry gives us the ability to quickly reverse the damages from water. If Jack would have called SERVPRO first, he  would have saved thousands of dollars in repairs that may have been avoided completely if the professionals were called in to make it "Like it never even happened."

Hide and Seek

4/12/2019 (Permalink)

Anatomy of a Sioux Falls basement wall after water damage.

Water damage can be tricky and mischievous. Finding ways to hide and travel. Imagine your water heater bursting and all that water soaked your carpet. Every step you hear squish, squish. This is no day at the beach!  
 

It makes sense to many of us that once the carpet is dry everything is fine and goes back to normal. But does it really? 
 

We rely on what we can see, but what about what we can't see? Once carpeting is wet is soaks the carpet pad as well. This pad acts like a sponge retaining the water. With all the trapped water it tries to find dry areas. In most Sioux Falls basements, the anatomy of the walls is drywall on the front, a plastic vapor barrier, and some type of insulation inside wood framing. The water in the pad migrates to the dry wood framing, wicks up the drywall and insulation. Other areas of carpet that was dry at the beginning are likely now slowly becoming wet. These are the hidden damages from the water that we can’t see.  

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls are experts in seeking out water damage that can't be seen. Time is so important after the water damage to slow that wicking process. The drying equipment used is for what is not seen. If the carpet is dry it doesn’t mean your walls are dry. If not dried quickly it can create a birthplace for mold.  

Lightning Facts

4/10/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning Facts

According to Weather Underground.

• An average of 85 lightning fatalities occur each year
• Approximately 10% of the people struck by lightning are killed
• 70% of lightning strike victims suffer long-term effects
• Approximately 400 people survive lightning strikes each year
• The primary cause of death from lighting is cardiac arrest
• Most lightning injuries and deaths can be prevented with advance planning and being aware of developing weather situations

We have long been in awe and fascinated by watching the skies for lightning. This beautiful wonder also can be a source of a major disaster in your home.

Lightning related fires are more common in June through August. The biggest threat lightning poses is a fire to your structure. Wood and other flammable construction materials can easily explode due to the high temperature of a strike. In addition, current travelling through wires and pipelines instantly burns them causing complete damage to property.

Fire Damage

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls understands how these damages affect your home. Our teams are ready to respond to ensure your home and personal belongings are safeguarded, restored and your home is put back together "Like it never even happened."

Sioux Falls Flooding

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

March 2019 Storm

Water Where It Doesn't Belong?

Many Sioux Falls residents have had to deal with flooded basements and are continuing to see the damages.

The recent storm has affected so many families. Some unfortunately have experienced water damage before and many this is their first time.  It is so disheartening that so many folks are on lists for restoration companies to get help. There is such a great need and please stay patient as all companies are working hard to help.

What Can You Do?

Keep in mind the wet carpet isn't the only concern, it is your walls, behind your walls and the framing. If these materials stay wet it begins a breeding ground for mold that can start in a few days.

Here are some things that you can do while waiting for help to arrive, or if you chose to perform all the work yourself.

Water that came in from windows, doors, and foundation:

• Move all belongings out of the area
• Remove carpet pad
• Remove carpet
• Remove baseboard
• Remove drywall 2 feet up around all walls
• Remove Insulation and plastic sheeting
• Clean floor:
  • Clean surface with soap and warm, clean water.
  • Rinse with clean water.
  • Sanitize using a mixture of 1 cup (240 mL) of bleach to 5 gallons of water.
  • Allow to air dry.
  • Place any types of fans to help evaporate the moisture from the wet materials and install a dehumidifier to absorb the evaporation and dry everything down.

If water came in due to sump pump overflowing or failing. Follow steps above with the exception that the carpet can be saved. In addition, the interior walls do not have to be cut 2 feet up.  If you can't remove drywall at least drill holes under the baseboard line every several inches.

What's Next

If you worked on your basement with out professional help, the next step would be to hire a restoration company as they catch up to perform a water assessment. During the assessment we can determine if the basement is dry or if there are still wet materials that need attention. We can advise you on what else can be done or continue to assist you to make sure the home is safe, dry, and a healthy environment.

Dealing with Winter Storm Damage

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Is winter wreaking havoc on your home?

Know the Risk of Winter Weather

Punxsutawney Phil may have predicted an early spring, yet with the forecast outlook for the Sioux Falls area it seems winter weather will continue to linger for a while longer.

Winter storms, blizzards and threats of more snow continues to plague Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities. Many homeowners may be facing the inevitable side effects of these storms.

Snow by itself doesn’t seem all that heavy, yet when large amounts accumulate on rooftops, it can be problematic. The heavy load can cause roofs to collapse inwards, falling trees and limbs, and other ice related troubles.

The snow and ice can cause a backup in the gutters and produce an ice dam. Ice dams are when snow melts and then refreezes, which can also cause potential water damage in the home.

The frigid temperatures and South Dakota winds can also cause frozen pipes. Once these pipes thaw can cause major flooding. These types of breaks typically cause major damage to the home and personal belongings.

Other than flooding, water damage may not be as easy to detect because it can sometimes take several days or even weeks to notice, and it doesn’t always appear in ways you’d think it would. Discoloration, cracks, drywall tape loosening and water spots can take days to show up on ceilings.  

Despite all of its icy coldness, winter can also bring increased risk of fire. During these cold spell we tend to utilize other heating sources to maintain our homes. These space heaters increase the risk potential of fire.

How to Respond to Winter Storm Damage

• Contact your insurance company- Let them know about the damages to your home. Review your coverages, policy limits on the policy and your deductible.

• Take photos of the damages

• If water is intruding in your home, take immediate action and call SERVPRO, we are here to help.

Regardless of the damages to your home, the most important steps is keeping yourself and family safe. It can be emotionally and physically exhausting for homeowners to deal with storm damages. Take time to care for yourself while your home is being mitigated and repaired. Ask questions often to fully understand the process. This includes questions to the claims adjuster, restoration contractor, and other parties involved in the claim. Take notes to help process all the information you are receiving. Save all your receipts of out of pocket expenses to discuss with your claims adjuster.

We are here to help, "Like it never even happened."

Sioux Falls Tips for Smoke Alarms

2/28/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke detectors saved this family!

Tragedy Strikes

It was a cold evening in January with the wind howling outside. A family of four snuggled on the couch to watch their favorite movie. After the movie the family performed their evening bedtime routine. Each child was tucked into bed and drifted off to sleep. After the evening news the Mother and Father couldn’t keep their eyes open and soon were fast asleep.

Loud and intimidating sounds filled the house. One by one the smoke alarms were warning the family of the present danger. The family raced to safety.

A small unattended candle in the bathroom caught the shower curtain on fire. Thanks to their dedicated monthly ritual of testing their smoke alarms the family escaped and were not harmed.

Tips for testing your smoke detector:

Check Location:

• Smoke detectors should be placed on the ceiling or high up on the wall. Most models look like small, white discs with a single LED light on the top or side.
• Do not place near doors, windows, or ventilation systems. This may affect air flow of how the smoke would travel to set off the alarm.

Determine Power:

• Check the power by pressing the test button

• The alarm should be sounding

• Walk away and ensure you can hear the alarm from other rooms

Check Smoke Sensor:

• Hold matches or a lighter in your hand and, while you’re below the smoke detector, hold the flame. Blow it out immediately and let the smoke rise to the detector. The smoke should trigger and set off the alarm. If it does not activate, your detector is not operating correctly.
• Be careful when handling matches to avoid burning your hands.
• After the test, you can clean the smoke with a handheld vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth.

 Fire alarms are essential safety devices that, when activated, will alert you of danger and quite possibly save your life by giving you more time to evacuate. Testing your alarms monthly ensures that the detectors and alarms are working properly and will operate as intended during a fire.

How To Handle Storm Damage

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

Taking immediate action can limit the damage caused by a storm.

When storm damage hits Sioux Falls homes and businesses, it's important to know what to do until SERVPRO crews get on site.

• Call SERVPRO at (605) 213-3303 immediately upon discovering damage.
• Shut off the source of water (ie: replace sump pump) or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.  Use a shop vac or carpet cleaning machine to suck water from carpets.  Do Not use a household vacuum cleaner.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove electronics, documents, sensitive or valuable items to a dry place.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting and window curtains off damp floors.
• Pull carpet back from the walls to limit water wicking into the drywall.

Don't forget that when storm damage strikes in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area, SERVPRO is here to help.

Commercial Damage Tips

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a solution for your commercial cleanup concerns.

Commercial property damage in the Sioux Falls area comes in different forms.  SERVPRO has provided some tips on how to best handle the situation until the SERVPRO Franchise Professional arrives on site.

Vandalism Damage:

• Hose or wash egg damage from the building exterior as soon as possible.
• Vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery in the affected area.
• Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics, and paints.  This will assist greatly in the removal of these products.
• Do not attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains yourself.  You may accidentally set the stains permanently.
• Make sure not to operate damaged lamps or appliances.
• Never discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects.

When your business has damage caused by vandalism, call SERVPRO in Sioux Falls at (605) 213-3303. 

Contaminated Water

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

No matter the size, SERVPRO makes commercial water losses "Like it never even happened".

Commercial property damage in the Sioux Falls area comes in all different forms.  Here are some ways to handle the situation until SERVPRO arrives on site.

Water Damage From Contaminated Water:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
• Do not spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Leave the HVAC system turned off if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air. 
• Don't blow household fans to try to dry the structure and spread the contaminants to other areas.
• No longer use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas. 

When contaminated water is a concern in your Sioux Falls business, you'll want to call SERVPRO at (605) 213-3303.

Air Quality In Businesses

7/6/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO can help with any commercial water damage or commercial mold growth concerns.

Intrusion of water into your place of business can result in mold growth.  Water intrusions can result from Sioux Falls storm damage, plumbing or equipment failures, long-standing leaks and poor humidity control. 

When water intrusions are not addressed right away, the resulting damage can present increased risk of harmful mold growth.  Some amount of mold spores are normally present in most environments.  If the humidity and moisture levels in a water-damaged business environment are not promptly returned to normal, mold spores may grow and multiply.  Organic materials found inside a building, such as wood, paper, drywall and insulation, provide food sources for mold to flourish.  Excessive mold growth can lead to the business having indoor environmental conditions that pose a health threat.

To have SERVPRO evaluate your Sioux Falls commercial restoration needs, give us a call at (605) 213-3303.

What to do after a fire in Sioux Falls

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

In Sioux Falls, SERVPRO is here to help.

After a fire is an overwhelming time.  The things that you do next can help or hurt the cleanup process.  If you have a fire in the Sioux Falls area, here are some tips to follow.

Do:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean.  Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork. 
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system. 

After a fire, call SERVPRO in Sioux Falls at (605) 213-3303.

Things to avoid after a fire

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO in Sioux Falls to help restore your home.

After a fire is an overwhelming time.  The things that you do next can help or hurt the cleanup process.  If you have a fire in the Sioux Falls area, here are some tips to follow.

Don't:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO  Franchise Professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water.  (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.  Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner.  Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor. 

After a fire, call SERVPRO in Sioux Falls at (605) 213-3303.

Ordinary Mold

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls provides mold testing services to help determine if there is a concern.

If you discover mold in your home in the Sioux Falls area, there are many questions that arise.  Here's a little bit of information about ordinary mold that can help your understanding of the issue.

Fungi and mold naturally occur in our environment.  In fact, over 100,000 kinds of fungi have been identified.  Fungi produce some very useful results.  Yeast is a type of fungi used in preparing breads, baked goods and other food products, including some alcoholic beverages.  The unique flavor of blue cheese is a result of mold.  An edible mushroom is simply a type of fungi, and lifesaving penicillin is a product of mold (Penicillin chrysogenum).

Even though some forms of mold can add value to our lives, other forms can be harmful.  Excessive amounts of mold, different types of mold, and/or exposure to molds may present health concerns for some people. 

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls provides mold testing services to help determine if there is a concern.  SERVPRO also provides mold cleanup to Sioux Falls and the surrounding area. 

Call (605) 213-3303 to speak with our experts.

Take Precautions

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals handle water damages every day and know prompt action is required to prevent mold growth.  Mold is more likely to spread in your Sioux Falls home or business when an environment has been subject to moisture for a long period of time.  If your property has sustained a recent water damage, it is vital to remove excess water and dry the structure promptly.  If there is an ongoing moisture problem in the building, it is important to be alert for:

• The presence of visible mold.
• Strong musty odors which may indicate mold is present.
• Any evidence of past moisture problems that might have caused undetected mold growth.
• Excessive humidity.

These conditions may require the expertise of a qualified Indoor Air Quality/Environmental Professional to inspect the building for mold growth and water damage problems.

If you need assistance with water damage or mold in the Sioux Falls area, call SERVPRO at (605) 213-3303.

Sioux Falls Smoke and Soot Cleanup

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Sioux Falls Home.

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (605) 213-3303

Restoring Your Sioux Falls Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Sioux Falls commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.

http://www.SERVPROwestsiouxfalls.com/employee-photos

http://www.SERVPROwestsiouxfalls.com/company-profile

Does Your Sioux Falls Home Have A Mold Problem

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

After a major thunderstorm rolled through the area. This house was left unchecked for days.

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is not accurate.

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
• Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
• Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
• Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
• Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.

 Iff your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

 Call SERVPRO Today – 

(605) 213-3303

Sioux Falls 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Sioux Falls

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (605) 213-3303

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls 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.

When Storms or Floods hit Sioux Falls, SERVPRO is ready!

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Sioux Falls.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Sioux Falls, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (605) 213-3303

Teapot Days 2018

6/11/2018 (Permalink)

Our family is proud to be part of the Tea community.

Don't forget to watch for our SERVPRO vehicles in the Teapot Days parade again this year.  Here's a schedule of this year's events. 

We're so proud to be a part of this amazing community.

Source: teasd.com

TEAPOT DAYS JUNE 13-16, 2018

SCHEDULE (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

NO COOLERS ARE ALLOWED IN THE PARK AT ANY TIME

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 13, 2018

CommuniTEA BBQ at Trinity Lutheran Church Parking Lot - 335 W. 1st St. 

• 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
• Free Hamburgers, hot dogs & drinks
• Inflatables! 
• Meet community members. 
• Tour a Tea Fire Truck, Tea Police Car and a Bus
• Bloodmobile
  
  

THURSDAY, JUNE 14, 2018

• The Mighty Thomas Carnival - 5:00 pm to dusk - 105 E. Brian St.

• Crowning of Ma & Pa Teapot - 7:00 pm Tea Community Hall, 200 W. Maple St.

FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2018

• The Mighty Thomas Carnival - Noon - dusk - 105 E. Brian St.
• Free Kids Pedal Pull - Registration begins at 6:30 pm - Pulling starts at 7:00 pm.  Ages 3-11, Tea Park Picnic Shelter, 105 E. Brian
• Teafest Hot Rod Show & Shine - Tea Athletic Park - Registration at 5:00 pm.  $10 registration fee includes t-shirt.
              Car Show from 6pm to 9pm - Concessions and beverages by Squealers Smoke Shack  -
              Music from 6pm - 9pm by Weston Frank 
• Tea Steak House Dance featuring Driven - 9:00 pm -1:00 am - Main Ave.

SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2918

• Pancake Breakfast - 7:00 -9:30 am - Tea Community Hall, 200 W. Maple St. - Free will donation 
• Junior Achievement 5K Bacon Run - 8:00 am start at Tea Athletic Complex.  For more information and to register go to  https://secure.qgiv.com/for/2tbr/
• Parade - 10:00 am Start - Line up at Tea Area High School from 9:00 to 9:45 am.  
• Northern Plains Boxer Recue Poker Run - 
• The Mighty Thomas Carnival - Noon -10:00 .
• Food Vendors - 10:00 am - 10:00 pm - Tea Park
• Beer Garden - Noon - 10:30 pm
• Vendors - 10:00 am - 4:00 pm - Tea Park 
• Bean Bag Tournament - 1:00 pm - 2 person teams - Check in from 11:45-12:20 pm  - Must pre-register - $40.00 per team - Late registration $50.00 per team.  Proceeds benefit TAPPS.  Bring Lawn chairs.  CLICK HERE FOR AN APPLICATION
• Tea Lions Pork Feed - 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Tea Community Hall - 200 W. Maple
• Free Music - Guilty Pleasures Orchestra - 11:30 am - 3:30 pm
                       Working Class Hero - 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm
• Fireworks - 10:30 pm - viewing from the Tea Park
• Sky Lounge Street Dance featuring Too Drunk to Fish from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm and Bad Hamster from 9:00 pm - 1:00 am - 2nd St. & Main Avew.

Disaster Cleaning

6/6/2018 (Permalink)

Our custom red stain remover utilizes heat that transfers the stains out of the carpet.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls utilizes specialized professional cleaning products.  SERVPRO not only manufactures and distributes these products, we have chemists on staff that develop our propriety products. 

This allows us to have a good solution for most situations.  We can clean things like rust, marker, soot, or even tricky red stains from carpets.  We clean soot from walls, ceilings, even hard and soft contents.  We also clean up bio-hazard materials  such as trauma scenes. 

Because of our arsenal of products, we are able to clean, deodorize, disinfect almost anything we encounter.  Not all companies can say they have the resources to do that. 

When fire damage, water damage, mold, duct cleaning, carpet cleaning or specialty stain removal services are needed, we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls at (605) 213-3303.

Temporary Heat Sources

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Indirect fire furnaces like this one allow us to dry out your Sioux Falls home.

Sometimes water damage can cause a structure to be without a working furnace.  Because temperature is such a crucial part of the drying process, this can pose a problem that not all companies are equipped to deal with.  In Sioux Falls, SERVPRO has the equipment and expertise to handle this type of situation when it arises.  Whether it's temporary electric heat, or something like an indirect fire gas furnace, we've been there and can create a customized drying plan for any size water loss. 

By creating a drying zone that maintains the proper temperature, we are able to utilize air movement and dehumidification to dry things out "Like it never even happened." Our friends and neighbors in the Sioux Falls area know that SERVPRO is the company to call when the unexpected happens.  We have a staff of certified water restorers that specialize in water damage cleanup and restoration. 

7 Tips To Prevent Spring Flooding

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Spring water damage often occurs in the basement or crawlspace of Sioux Falls homes. We have special equipment to handle this.

7 tips to prevent spring flooding.

Gutters

Clean your gutters and downspouts annually, and inspect them for any leaks. Make sure downspouts are positioned away from the foundation. The goal should be to drain the water at least three feet away, using extension pieces or troughs if necessary.

Landscaping

Inspect the grading around your house. If possible, walk around the house during a heavy rainstorm to ensure that water is not pooling at or near the foundation.

Windows and Doors

Remove debris from window wells, and consider clear acrylic covers that will allow light to enter while keeping debris, water, and pests out.

Septic Tank/Sewer Lines

Spring is a good time to have your septic tank cleaned or your sewer line inspected. Heavy rain can overflow sewers and septic systems, causing a back-up into your house.

Sump Pump

Consider getting a back-up in case of power failure, either a generator or a battery operated back-up pump. A water alarm will alert you when water is accumulating in your basement.

Foundation

Inspect the exterior foundation, as well as the floors and walls in your basement, for cracks. Depending on the size of the cracks, they may be easily repaired with masonry sealer or caulk. Larger cracks may require professional help. Keep all exterior walls of your home well painted and sealed.

Insurance

Review your property insurance policy and consider additional coverage, especially if you have a finished basement. Usually homeowners insurance does not cover flooding or sewer backups unless additional coverage is written into the policy.

Spring Pipe Leaks

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Water running down the walls and through the ceiling of your Sioux Falls home should result in an immediate call to SERVPRO.

Water damage can strike your Sioux Falls home unexpectedly in the Spring time.  One of the things that is a major cause of water damage is the pipe going to a frost free water spigot.  If a garden hose is left connected during the freezing months of the year, it can cause the pipe to expand because of the water trapped inside it.  This leads to a crack in the pipe.  More often then not, when this happens it is not realized until the home owner turns on the spigot in the spring so they can wash their cars or water the lawn.  Because the frost free spigot shuts the water off 8-12 inches inside the home, the crack does not receive a fresh flow of water until that spigot is turned on.  Once turned on, the result can be massive amounts of water leaking into the home. 

In the Sioux Falls area, SERVPRO is the company to call if you experience water damage or a flooded basement.  Call SERVPRO at 213-3303.

Mold In Sioux Falls Homes

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

Left untreated or undiagnosed, mold can quickly get out of control.

This year has brought a lot of water to our area.  Coupled with damaging winds, water has come in from up above through damaged roofs and from down below with severe basement flooding. 

When moisture is present too long, mold can grow.  If you see anything or smell anything that you think might be mold, contact us immediately to come do an inspection.  Your health can be compromised from exposure to mold, and you don't want to put it off. 

We completed an inspection recently where we were able to help the homeowner determine that their smell was actually due to a natural gas leak.  Had they not questioned the smell, thinking it was from previous water damage, the consequence could have been severe. 

We use state of the art Thermal Imaging to help make sure our inspection of your home is thorough.  So when you have a concern, don't put it off.  Have us come help you get back "Like it never even happened." 

Storms In Sioux Falls Area

8/23/2017 (Permalink)

Our Tea Titans start school Thursday. We understand how busy life gets. Sometimes you need to call for help. Call SERVPRO at (605) 213-3303

Monday brought a lot of rain to Sioux Falls, Tea, Harrisburg, Brandon, Dell Rapids and other surrounding towns.  We welcomed the rain since it has been a very dry year for us.  The rain did choose to come down in a manner that created flash flooding.  A lot of water all at once.  This caused a lot of sump pumps to either fail, or just not keep up fast enough.  There were many flooded basements in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area.

With school starting this week for a number of people, there just isn't a lot of time to deal with things like water damage in your home.  If you haven't been able to get the damage taken care of yet, call SERVPRO to come take a look at it and make sure your home doesn't suffer further damage, such as mold growth. 

http://www.SERVPROwestsiouxfalls.com/storm-flooding-restoration

Sioux Falls Smoke and Soot Cleanup

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and Soot Damage Can Cause a Pervasive Odor in Your Sioux Falls Home

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (605) 213-3303

Sioux Falls Water Damage Equipment

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

Our specialized drying equipment, such as the Direct-It In, makes us the pros to trust when you have water damage in your Sioux Falls home.

SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls is your local Fire and Water Cleanup company.  We use specialized equipment and products to ensure that the job is done right.  If you have a flooded basement in Sioux Falls or a kitchen fire, call the experts who have the right tools to bring your home back to "Like it never even happened." 

Our specialty is Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration.  We do restoration work every day, so we have the knowledge and the tools to handle even the most unique situation.  No two fire or water damage situations are the same.  This is why it's crucial to choose a team with the know how to get your life back to normal quickly. 

Call SERVPRO at (605) 213-3303

Water Cleanup You Can Afford

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

The new AirMax air movers dry your home in Sioux Falls with the same airflow as older fans, but use a lot less electricity to do it.

When you have water damage in Sioux Falls, you need to turn to professionals you can trust.  At SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls, we are IICRC certified water restorers.  We also hold a Residential Building Contractor license with the City Of Sioux Falls, so we can help with the reconstruction side of the property damage as well. 

We utilize the newest technologies and equipment in order to be sure your home is restored in the most energy efficient way possible. This saves you money and makes the whole process much smoother for the property owner. 

If you find yourself experiencing property damage from fire, water, or mold, give SERVPRO of West Sioux Falls a call.  We'll make it "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO at (605) 213-3303

SIoux Falls Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

6/5/2017 (Permalink)

This Sioux Falls home's basement flooded due to heavy rains.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall.Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building andare normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why yourSioux Falls basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding? Call Today – 605-213- 3303 If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, andcause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse theproblem will get. The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’sintegrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Sioux Falls and let our trained, professionalcrews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds ofhomeowners, business owners, and property professionals. We are Flooded Basement Specialists: