Preparing Your Home for Storm Season | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

9/16/2024 (Permalink)

Don't delay! When storm damages affects your property, call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to restore your space.

Living in this part of Georgia means enjoying warm weather and beautiful surroundings, but it also means being prepared for severe storms that can hit unexpectedly. From thunderstorms to hurricanes, the damage these storms can cause to your home is no small matter. Understanding the risks and knowing what to do can save you time, money, and stress.

Keeping Your Home Safe from Summer Storms | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

7/15/2024 (Permalink)

When storms strike, call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to restore your property to preloss condition faster!

Summertime in our part of Alabama means long, sunny days and warm nights, but it also brings the potential for severe storms. With a combination of high humidity, heat, and atmospheric instability, summer storms can be intense and unpredictable. At SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners protect their homes from storm damage all summer long.

Prepare Your Home for Severe Thunderstorms | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

6/17/2024 (Permalink)

Whether its storm damage cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is ready to respond in a moments notice to your call.

Storm Planning to Avoid Fears | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to help you recover.

Dark skies, booming thunder, anxious dogs and nervous kids—these are all a recipe for disaster. When storms are moving in, your home can easily fall into chaos. It can be hard to know what to do and when to do it.

We all know that Alabama weather can be pretty volatile. Strong thunderstorms, tornadoes and heavy rains are possible year-round. Even our winters can come with some high winds and the occasional freeze. There isn’t a lot we can do about the weather, but we can take steps to prepare ourselves so that we respond in the best way possible to every storm.

Making a plan and gathering supplies with your family won’t just ensure you are ready when a thunderstorm or worse pops up, it can also help ease fears.

The Basics of Flood Damage Prevention | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

4/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties is ready to help in a moments notice after spring showers leak in to your home or business.

When you want to do something well, it is best to start with the basics. If you have children who are learning multiplication, this is a fact that you already know (painfully) well.

Starting with the basics is the best way to protect your home from potential damage that disasters could leave you with. We can’t control what Mother Nature is going to do, but we can prepare for it.

Flooding is one of the most damaging natural disasters—and it can affect any house anywhere. That makes covering the basics of flood prevention and protection incredibly important.

Be Alert! Spring Storms Are Coming | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties help you get from April showers to May flowers.

There is no better time of the year in Alabama than spring. The cold temperatures of winter are gone, and the oppressive heat of the summer has not yet set in. Grass begins to turn green again and flowers bloom—it really is a beautiful season.

While the beauty of spring can’t be denied, we also know that it can come with volatile weather. It isn’t unusual to see strong thunderstorms, tornadoes and flash floods after torrential rain, especially as we get closer to summer.

With the possibility of such weather extremes in our community, it’s crucial to be prepared. Receiving timely and accurate weather alerts is one of the most important ways to keep your family safe.

A Look at Common Home Damage Types | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties right away.

Do you ever think about how your home might be damaged? There are actually lots of risks—from weather, aging or just neighborly accidents. Your home is at risk on a daily basis.

While there may be plenty of daily risks, no one should spend a whole lot of their day thinking about them. Instead, you can prepare for them and lower your chances of a total disaster. When you stay ready, even a completely unpredictable natural disaster won’t leave you too blindsided.

In order to get and stay prepared, you need to first develop an understanding of the risks you face. Not only can understanding your risks help you prepare, but it can also help ease the sting of the recovery process when you know how simple it can be. With SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties around the corner, your restoration won’t only be simple, it will be quick.

The Biggest Risks

There are a lot of wonderful things about living in Alabama, but the weather isn’t always one of them. Temps can flip at the drop of a hat, heavy rain and thunderstorms happen year-round, and we are vulnerable to tornadoes in the warmer months . Flash floods also occur pretty commonly, and strong winds can blow through at any time of year.

While the weather is a mixed bag, you also should focus your attention on three main kinds of damage that can happen to anyone’s home. Roof damage, water damage and fires are some of the greatest threats to houses everywhere.

Your roof is vulnerable from heavy rains, but it can also be damaged by the rogue limb that was loose in a tree. In the same way, water could enter your home from a flooded yard or the occasional frozen pipe when the temps take a deep dive. Fires can also come from a number of sources, both external and internally, but many fires are due to human error.

Compounding Damages

Suffering through a disaster can be completely traumatic, but when you begin to see the compounding damage left behind, things can feel really out of control. One kind of damage will almost always lead to another.

Water damage doesn’t just leave everything in its path wet, it also creates the perfect environment for mold that can get out of control and affect your structure. A fire can spread smoke and soot throughout rooms that never even saw flames. The firefighting efforts can also create other damage from water or chemicals.

No matter what kind of damage your home has, your restoration process will likely take several steps. SERVPRO® is ready to handle all of them. With experience in water, wind, fire, mold and construction, there isn’t anything we can’t handle. Every restoration is unique, and our team is ready to walk with you through yours.

When a flash flood enters your home or a heavy rain leads to a leak in your ceiling, our team will start drying things out right away. We will make sure everything is structurally sound as well, including replacing roof beams or part of your foundation as needed. Before the whole recovery is over, our team will also sanitize and rid your home of any odors, as well as seal everything in order to prevent mold from returning.

Fire recovery happens in much the same way, starting with the most damaged areas first. When the crew arrives, they will make sure your home is safe from the elements and start removing anything destroyed by the flames. The fire restoration process will involve your whole home as we inspect to ensure smoke, soot and odors are completely removed. If the fire left a part of your home damaged beyond repair, our construction experts can tear it down and rebuild it.

SERVPRO works directly with your insurance company to ensure everything is handled as it needs to be, and we coordinate with any additional contractors you may need. We are here to address your every need with one phone call, and with ²⁴⁄₇ availability, we are always ready to get started the moment you need us.

Does your home need restoration and you don’t want to make more than one call? Contact us to get everything handled by one team.

When Winter Storms Get Strong | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties has your back with these helpful tips.

There aren’t a lot of people in this area who love winter, and when a winter storm moves in, it can cause a lot of chaos. They may not happen often, but when they do, we can see snow, ice and freezing temperatures.

Because our winters can bring such a wide variety of weather, being prepared is the best way to protect both your home and your family. When you are prepared you ride out anything winter brings us.

Protecting Your Home from Storms With Outdoor Prep | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties has your back when you experience flood and water damage.

Tornadoes, strong winds, heavy rains, flooding, thunderstorms…the number of weather threats your home face is great. Things change according to the season and your location, but there is always something you need to be prepared for.

When you own your property, you might feel like you have a never ending to-do list. Adding a few extra steps to that list seasonally can go a long way in keeping your home safe.

Alabama weather offers a little bit of everything throughout the year, with spring and summer being the worst for severe storms. Strong thunderstorms, flash floods and tornadoes cannot be ruled out during these seasons, while wind and rain are something we see all year.

Take steps to protect your home by preparing the outside of your home to handle anything that is thrown at it.

How to Start Recovery After a Storm | SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties to restore your space in no time!

Storms can be incredibly powerful and alarmingly hard to predict sometimes. Even when there is plenty of time to prepare for it, a thunderstorm can blow through harder and faster than expected and create damage everywhere it hits.

Alabama weather has always been a bit unpredictable, but we know that our warmer climate can bring strong thunderstorms and tornadoes. While these mostly occur in the spring and the summer, our mild winters still leave us vulnerable to some pretty strong storms. Heavy rains and flash flooding can never be ruled out either.

With the constant threat of severe weather always hanging around, we understand how important it is to stay prepared and heed warnings. Knowing what to do after a storm hits can be just as important to ensuring a smooth recovery.

If a storm has rolled through your neighborhood and left you with damages to clean up, take a few steps to start your recovery well.

Get Your Home Ready to Avoid Wind Damages | SERVPRO® of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties

6/12/2023 (Permalink)

If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties your first call.

Wind: It’s one of those things that is ever-present in our lives even though we can’t see it. On a hot day, a cool breeze can feel like a sweet gift, but when wind gets strong, it can result in utter chaos.

Strong winds are most often associated with severe weather, but breezes can get high even when the skies are blue, leaving lives upturned and homes destroyed.

When you educate yourself about the different kinds of wind that might blow through your life, you can take action and prepare your home while you protect your family.

Preparation Is Key!!

6/23/2022 (Permalink)

Storms and inclement weather can be devastating to any business. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. There’s never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business. 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.

•  24 Hour Emergency Service
•  Faster to Any Size Disaster
•  A Trusted Leader in the Storm and Water Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
•  Highly Trained Storm and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (256) 378-1319!

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial storm or water damage emergencies. Regardless of your property type or size, we will respond quickly to clean the property and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about our training and certifications.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties will respond immediately to the storm or flood event affecting your commercial property, regardless of the size or scope of the damage. We are part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large scale events and disasters.

We are proud to be a part of our community and strive to provide the residents and business owners in our area the fastest response times and our best work each and every day.

SERVPRO Tornado Facts

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Every household should have an emergency plan in place before a disaster happens.  And part of that plan should include a stocked, ready to go, emergency preparedness kit.

An emergency preparedness kit is usually needed for you to survive for at least 72 hours. Make sure to keep an emergency kit at home and in your vehicle. Most items are easy to find and inexpensive:

Water – 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days

Food – Non-perishable food for at least 3 days

Manual can opener for food

Flashlight

Batteries

Hand crank radio or battery powered radio

First aid kit

Whistle

Matches

Dust Mask

Local Maps

Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Prescription medications

Infant formula, diapers, wipes, bottles

 The most powerful Tornadoes occur in the United States.

A typical tornado only lasts for a few minutes.

Every tornado has its own color, sound and shape.

You need to step on the pedal of a car pass 70 miles per hour to outrun the fastest tornadoes.

The chances that a tornado is a F5, the highest classification for a tornado on the F-scale, is less than 0.1%

Tornadoes have been reported in every state in the US and also in every season.

A Tornado can occur at any time, but most often between 3pm and 9pm.

The direction in which a tornado twists depends a lot upon which hemisphere you're in. In general, most tornadoes in the northern hemisphere rotate cyclonically, or counter-clockwise. Only around five percent of tornadoes in the northern hemisphere rotate clockwise, or anti-cyclonically.

 Remember to call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties @ 256-378-1319 for all of your needs.

SERVPRO Emergency Kit Facts

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Be Prepared at your home or business with an Emergency Kit. Ready. gov suggests you have enough supplies to last for at least three days. Below are some suggested items to include in your kit: 

• 3 day supply of non-perishable foods
• Water (one+ gallon per person per day) 
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medication 
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Fire extinguisher
• Hygiene products
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone charger
• Change of clothes
• Matches in waterproof container
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities 
• Whistle to signal for help
• Pet supplies
• Infant formula and diapers
• Important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, and bank records in a plastic container
• You can also keep a condensed emergency kit in your vehicle as well.

Before And After Storm

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Insurance companies encourage you to take precautions and be ready to take action following a major storm. Your safety and swift recovery are the top priorities for both you and your insurance company. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and return to regular daily life after a catastrophic event.

What should I do before a disaster strikes?

• Call or visit your insurance agent prior to a storm to discuss your policy.
• Keep the name, address, insurance policy and claims reporting telephone number of your insurer and agent in a safe and easily accessible place.
• Take inventory of your household items, especially valuables. Photograph and videotape items for verification and keep in a safe place such as a safety deposit box, and/or send copies of records to a trusted relative or friend who lives another state.
• Read your insurance policy and know what YOUR responsibilities are. Know what is and isn't covered, such as flooding, and know your general/specific policy limits and deductibles.

A storm has hit and my house is damaged. Now what?

• Find out the time limit on filing claims and notify your insurance agent in writing of the damage as soon as possible.
• If there are holes in your roof or your windows are broken, be sure to cover them as quickly as possible so that wind and rain do not cause further damage.
• Save receipts of what you spend and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.
• Don't throw away any damaged items until an adjuster visits your home.
• Photograph or videotape the damage for your records and the insurance company. Make a copy of your home inventory for your adjuster.

What kind of questions do I ask my insurance company?

• Does my claim exceed my deductible? Make sure you know the amount of your deductible. In many coastal areas, deductibles may range from 1 to 5 percent of your home's value.
• Will I need to obtain estimates for repairs or replacements? Before an estimate can be reimbursed, some companies may require an estimate to be approved first.
• How much insurance is enough? Check if your policy pays replacement cost or actual cash value for a covered loss. If you have increased the value of your property, be sure to increase the protection for your property.
• Does my policy provide reimbursement for additional living expenses when a property is determined to be uninhabitable due to damage? If you must evacuate the area, notify your insurance company and verify your insurance policy for coverage for temporary lodging. This provision helps pay for living expenses, restaurant food, overnight parking, and laundry services.

What should my insurance company be doing?

• Once you have made a claim, the company will send you the necessary claim forms. Properly fill the forms out to avoid delays.
• Your company will send out an adjuster to inspect your home. Make a list of structural damage to your home that you would like to show the adjuster.
• Once you and your insurance company agree on the terms of your settlement, state laws require that your payment is sent promptly.
• Damage to trees, shrubs and other plants during a hurricane or windstorm are not covered under a standard homeowners policy. However, insurance may pay to remove the debris from a fallen tree if it caused damage to a structure covered by insurance.

How To Storm Proof Your Garage

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Make storm-proofing your attached garage a priority when planning to protect your home from storms. Being one of the largest spaces in any home, your garage is also the most vulnerable place when it comes to high winds. Here are some tips to stormproof your garage, which will also protect the rest of your home:

1. High Impact Ratings. Storms with extreme wind will cause the most damage; when a garage is breached, the rest of your home is at risk. Water can come in, and even just an inch of water can cause expensive and unwanted damage. If you live in an area prone to tornadoes, it is recommended that you invest in a door that can withstand winds of 130 mph or higher. Doors with high impact-ratings will protect your home and belongings from flying debris.
2. Bracing system. You can reinforce your garage door with a proper bracing system. Most garage doors are secured only by the tracks or hinges, which will be of no benefit during a powerful storm. A bracing system works by anchoring the door to the walls and floors and into each hinge.  
3. Maintenance. If there are any holes, cracks, or breaches in your garage door, that will allow storm winds through. Perform a monthly inspection looking for these types of issues as well as problems with the weather stripping or any parts of the garage door mechanisms and functionality to ensure that any repairs are performed as soon as possible.
4. Secure all windows. If you have windows in your attached garage, these are considered weak points during extreme weather. Ensure they are in good repair and the weather stripping is strong at all times. Having wrought-iron window protection installed can also be a protective addition to keep your glass safe from flying debris.
5. Install drainage and flood vents. Make sure that your entire home is properly outfitted for the drainage of large amounts of water. You can have a trench drain installed around your home and on the sides of your driveway to divert water, and flood vents inside the garage can quickly drain any water coming inside before levels rise and cause damage.

Here at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, we are always ready to help you if you experience water or fire damages; whether at home or in a commercial setting. Contact us today by phone at (256)-378-1319.

Preparing For A Storm

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Preparing for a storm can be intimidating, let us give you some tips to make the process a lot easier for you.

Before The Storm:

1. Build an emergency supply kit and make a family communication plan.
2. Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
3. Postpone outdoor activities.
4. Remember the 30/30 Lighting Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lighting, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
5. Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
6. Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lighting strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
7. Remember, rubbed-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lighting. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
8. Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
9. Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

If you have experienced storm damage please give us a call at 256-378-1319 where we can make it "Like it never even happened."

How To Storm Proof Your Garage

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Make storm-proofing your attached garage a priority when planning to protect your home from storms. Being one of the largest spaces in any home, your garage is also the most vulnerable place when it comes to high winds. Here are some tips to stormproof your garage, which will also protect the rest of your home:

1. High Impact Ratings. Storms with extreme wind will cause the most damage; when a garage is breached, the rest of your home is at risk. Water can come in, and even just an inch of water can cause expensive and unwanted damage. If you live in an area prone to tornadoes, it is recommended that you invest in a door that can withstand winds of 130 mph or higher. Doors with high impact-ratings will protect your home and belongings from flying debris.
2. Bracing system. You can reinforce your garage door with a proper bracing system. Most garage doors are secured only by the tracks or hinges, which will be of no benefit during a powerful storm. A bracing system works by anchoring the door to the walls and floors and into each hinge.  
3. Maintenance. If there are any holes, cracks, or breaches in your garage door, that will allow storm winds through. Perform a monthly inspection looking for these types of issues as well as problems with the weather stripping or any parts of the garage door mechanisms and functionality to ensure that any repairs are performed as soon as possible.
4. Secure all windows. If you have windows in your attached garage, these are considered weak points during extreme weather. Ensure they are in good repair and the weather stripping is strong at all times. Having wrought-iron window protection installed can also be a protective addition to keep your glass safe from flying debris.
5. Install drainage and flood vents. Make sure that your entire home is properly outfitted for the drainage of large amounts of water. You can have a trench drain installed around your home and on the sides of your driveway to divert water, and flood vents inside the garage can quickly drain any water coming inside before levels rise and cause damage.

Here at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, we are always ready to help you if you experience water or fire damages; whether at home or in a commercial setting. Contact us today by phone at (256)-378-1319.

Steps Before & After Storm

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Insurance companies encourage you to take precautions and be ready to take action following a major storm. Your safety and swift recovery are the top priorities for both you and your insurance company. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and return to regular daily life after a catastrophic event.

What should I do before a disaster strikes?

• Call or visit your insurance agent prior to a storm to discuss your policy.
• Keep the name, address, insurance policy and claims reporting telephone number of your insurer and agent in a safe and easily accessible place.
• Take inventory of your household items, especially valuables. Photograph and videotape items for verification and keep in a safe place such as a safety deposit box, and/or send copies of records to a trusted relative or friend who lives another state.
• Read your insurance policy and know what YOUR responsibilities are. Know what is and isn't covered, such as flooding, and know your general/specific policy limits and deductibles.

A storm has hit and my house is damaged. Now what?

• Find out the time limit on filing claims and notify your insurance agent in writing of the damage as soon as possible.
• If there are holes in your roof or your windows are broken, be sure to cover them as quickly as possible so that wind and rain do not cause further damage.
• Save receipts of what you spend and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.
• Don't throw away any damaged items until an adjuster visits your home.
• Photograph or videotape the damage for your records and the insurance company. Make a copy of your home inventory for your adjuster.

What kind of questions do I ask my insurance company?

• Does my claim exceed my deductible? Make sure you know the amount of your deductible. In many coastal areas, deductibles may range from 1 to 5 percent of your home's value.
• Will I need to obtain estimates for repairs or replacements? Before an estimate can be reimbursed, some companies may require an estimate to be approved first.
• How much insurance is enough? Check if your policy pays replacement cost or actual cash value for a covered loss. If you have increased the value of your property, be sure to increase the protection for your property.
• Does my policy provide reimbursement for additional living expenses when a property is determined to be uninhabitable due to damage? If you must evacuate the area, notify your insurance company and verify your insurance policy for coverage for temporary lodging. This provision helps pay for living expenses, restaurant food, overnight parking, and laundry services.

What should my insurance company be doing?

• Once you have made a claim, the company will send you the necessary claim forms. Properly fill the forms out to avoid delays.
• Your company will send out an adjuster to inspect your home. Make a list of structural damage to your home that you would like to show the adjuster.
• Once you and your insurance company agree on the terms of your settlement, state laws require that your payment is sent promptly.
• Damage to trees, shrubs and other plants during a hurricane or windstorm are not covered under a standard homeowners policy. However, insurance may pay to remove the debris from a fallen tree if it caused damage to a structure covered by insurance.

Storm Proof Your Garage

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Make storm-proofing your attached garage a priority when planning to protect your home from storms. Being one of the largest spaces in any home, your garage is also the most vulnerable place when it comes to high winds. Here are some tips to storm-proof your garage, which will also protect the rest of your home:

1. High Impact Ratings. Storms with extreme wind will cause the most damage; when a garage is breached, the rest of your home is at risk. Water can come in, and even just an inch of water can cause expensive and unwanted damage. If you live in an area prone to tornadoes, it is recommended that you invest in a door that can withstand winds of 130 mph or higher. Doors with high impact-ratings will protect your home and belongings from flying debris.
2. Bracing system. You can reinforce your garage door with a proper bracing system. Most garage doors are secured only by the tracks or hinges, which will be of no benefit during a powerful storm. A bracing system works by anchoring the door to the walls and floors and into each hinge.  
3. Maintenance. If there are any holes, cracks, or breaches in your garage door, that will allow storm winds through. Perform a monthly inspection looking for these types of issues as well as problems with the weather stripping or any parts of the garage door mechanisms and functionality to ensure that any repairs are performed as soon as possible.
4. Secure all windows. If you have windows in your attached garage, these are considered weak points during extreme weather. Ensure they are in good repair and the weather stripping is strong at all times. Having wrought-iron window protection installed can also be a protective addition to keep your glass safe from flying debris.
5. Install drainage and flood vents. Make sure that your entire home is properly outfitted for the drainage of large amounts of water. You can have a trench drain installed around your home and on the sides of your driveway to divert water, and flood vents inside the garage can quickly drain any water coming inside before levels rise and cause damage.

Here at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, we are always ready to help you if you experience water or fire damages; whether at home or in a commercial setting. Contact us today by phone at (256)-378-1319.

What To Do Before The Storm!!

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

Preparing for a storm can be intimidating, let us give you some tips to make the process a lot easier for you.

Before The Storm:

1. Build an emergency supply kit and make a family communication plan.
2. Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
3. Postpone outdoor activities.
4. Remember the 30/30 Lighting Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lighting, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
5. Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
6. Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lighting strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
7. Remember, rubbed-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lighting. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
8. Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
9. Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

If you have experienced storm damage please give us a call at 256-378-1319 where we can make it "Like it never even happened."

Hail Damage

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Are you aware that during a hail storm more than just your vehicles are potentially vulnerable to damage and future repairs? When hail hits, it can damage the roof or covering of your home as well as other personal property. Although hailstorms can be destructive, the amount of damage can vary greatly. Following are some factors that affect the type and degree of damage that may be impacted by a hailstorm, as well as a guide on how to identify hail damage to different types of shingles and roofing materials.

• Wind – During a hailstorm, wind direction and wind speed can vary. Changes in wind conditions can affect the location and severity of hail impacts.
• Size and density – The size of the hailstones can affect the degree of damage, if any, to your property. A hailstone can be as small as a pea, or as large as a softball. Most hailstones do not have smooth edges, which can impact the type of damage they cause.
• Building materials – Building materials absorb hail impacts differently. For example, hail can cause dings in aluminum siding, gutters or asphalt shingles, whereas it can crack vinyl siding or wood shakes. Alternatively, softball-sized hailstones can be dense enough and strong enough to puncture a roof. Additionally, the age and condition of a roof could affect the degree of damage.
• Barriers– The position of neighboring structures and natural barriers, like tree cover, landscaping, fences or adjacent homes can reduce the ability of hail to cause damage.

Surviving Flood Damages!!

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Floods can happen at anytime and anywhere as a result of rain, snow coastal storms, storm surges and the overflow of dams as well as water systems. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down and 1 foot of moving water is enough to sweep your vehicle away. Remember the following:

• Depending on where you are and the impact and warning time of the flooding, go to a previously identified safe location.
• If you are told to evacuate, leave immediately. Never drive around barricades that local responders have used to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
• Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn around.
• Stay off bridges over fast moving water. Bridges can be wash away without warning.
• If your vehicle is trapped in fast moving water, stay inside unless the water is rising inside the vehicle, then seek safety on the roof.
• If trapped in a building, go to the highest level. Do not go into a closed attic where you may be trapped by rising floodwater. Go to the roof if necessary and signal for help.
• Always remember to listen to authorities for information and instructions during a flood situation and return home only when they say it is safe to do so.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties at 256-378-1319 for all your water restoration needs.

A Homeowner's Defenses Against Flood Damage

3/17/2020 (Permalink)

The peace of mind that comes with being prepared is priceless.

Flooding is a common occurrence in some parts of the country, but did you know that it could also be brought on by natural disasters? In fact, 90% of natural disasters have flooding involved.

Natural disasters can happen to anyone, anywhere, which is why it is so essential to be prepared.

How Can Homeowners Prevent Flood Damage?

Though natural disasters are unstoppable forces, homeowners can plan ahead and prevent excessive water damage from happening in their own homes:

Know your risk. Use the FEMA Flood Map Tool or call the local branch of your emergency management office to better understand your risk and the precautions to take.

Anchor fuel and propane tanks. Even if a tank is full and heavy, anchoring it is a wise idea in case waters begin to rush in.

Protect appliances. Elevate appliances when possible to prevent their electrical and internal components from being waterlogged and damaged beyond repair.

Elevate hazardous materials. If you would not want it to come into contact with your bare skin, it should be elevated out of the flood water’s path. Pollution can make the water more dangerous for the entire region, and can even lead to fires.

Digitize valuables. Precious and irreplaceable items, such as family memorabilia, tax records and household documents, should be digitized and the physical copies kept off-site or in a waterproof safe.

Turn off electricity. Even if you feel it’s unlikely that the waters would reach electrical appliances or outlets, having live electricity near floodwaters can still be dangerous. Shut off the electrical breaker to any rooms that are at-risk for a flood.

Taking steps to protect your home is a responsible precaution that you will be grateful for in hindsight. The peace of mind that comes with being prepared is priceless.

If you’ve experienced flood damage or water damage from other causes, SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties here to help. Our fully trained water remediation technicians will be there for you when you call.

Storm - Steps Before and After

7/27/2019 (Permalink)

Insurance companies encourage you to take precautions and be ready to take action following a major storm. Your safety and swift recovery are the top priorities for both you and your insurance company. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and return to regular daily life after a catastrophic event.

What should I do before a disaster strikes?

• Call or visit your insurance agent prior to a storm to discuss your policy.
• Keep the name, address, insurance policy and claims reporting telephone number of your insurer and agent in a safe and easily accessible place.
• Take inventory of your household items, especially valuables. Photograph and videotape items for verification and keep in a safe place such as a safety deposit box, and/or send copies of records to a trusted relative or friend who lives another state.
• Read your insurance policy and know what YOUR responsibilities are. Know what is and isn't covered, such as flooding, and know your general/specific policy limits and deductibles.

A storm has hit and my house is damaged. Now what?

• Find out the time limit on filing claims and notify your insurance agent in writing of the damage as soon as possible.
• If there are holes in your roof or your windows are broken, be sure to cover them as quickly as possible so that wind and rain do not cause further damage.
• Save receipts of what you spend and submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.
• Don't throw away any damaged items until an adjuster visits your home.
• Photograph or videotape the damage for your records and the insurance company. Make a copy of your home inventory for your adjuster.

What kind of questions do I ask my insurance company?

• Does my claim exceed my deductible? Make sure you know the amount of your deductible. In many coastal areas, deductibles may range from 1 to 5 percent of your home's value.
• Will I need to obtain estimates for repairs or replacements? Before an estimate can be reimbursed, some companies may require an estimate to be approved first.
• How much insurance is enough? Check if your policy pays replacement cost or actual cash value for a covered loss. If you have increased the value of your property, be sure to increase the protection for your property.
• Does my policy provide reimbursement for additional living expenses when a property is determined to be uninhabitable due to damage? If you must evacuate the area, notify your insurance company and verify your insurance policy for coverage for temporary lodging. This provision helps pay for living expenses, restaurant food, overnight parking, and laundry services.

What should my insurance company be doing?

• Once you have made a claim, the company will send you the necessary claim forms. Properly fill the forms out to avoid delays.
• Your company will send out an adjuster to inspect your home. Make a list of structural damage to your home that you would like to show the adjuster.
• Once you and your insurance company agree on the terms of your settlement, state laws require that your payment is sent promptly.
• Damage to trees, shrubs and other plants during a hurricane or windstorm are not covered under a standard homeowners policy. However, insurance may pay to remove the debris from a fallen tree if it caused damage to a structure covered by insurance.

Storm Proofing your garage

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Make storm-proofing your attached garage a priority when planning to protect your home from storms. Being one of the largest spaces in any home, your garage is also the most vulnerable place when it comes to high winds. Here are some tips to storm-proof your garage, which will also protect the rest of your home:

1. High Impact Ratings. Storms with extreme wind will cause the most damage; when a garage is breached, the rest of your home is at risk. Water can come in, and even just an inch of water can cause expensive and unwanted damage. If you live in an area prone to tornadoes, it is recommended that you invest in a door that can withstand winds of 130 mph or higher. Doors with high impact-ratings will protect your home and belongings from flying debris.
2. Bracing system. You can reinforce your garage door with a proper bracing system. Most garage doors are secured only by the tracks or hinges, which will be of no benefit during a powerful storm. A bracing system works by anchoring the door to the walls and floors and into each hinge.  
3. Maintenance. If there are any holes, cracks, or breaches in your garage door, that will allow storm winds through. Perform a monthly inspection looking for these types of issues as well as problems with the weather stripping or any parts of the garage door mechanisms and functionality to ensure that any repairs are performed as soon as possible.
4. Secure all windows. If you have windows in your attached garage, these are considered weak points during extreme weather. Ensure they are in good repair and the weather stripping is strong at all times. Having wrought-iron window protection installed can also be a protective addition to keep your glass safe from flying debris.
5. Install drainage and flood vents. Make sure that your entire home is properly outfitted for the drainage of large amounts of water. You can have a trench drain installed around your home and on the sides of your driveway to divert water, and flood vents inside the garage can quickly drain any water coming inside before levels rise and cause damage.

Here at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties, we are always ready to help you if you experience water or fire damages; whether at home or in a commercial setting. Contact us today by phone at (256)-378-1319.

Do You Know What to do BEFORE the Storm?

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Preparing for a storm can be intimidating, let us give you some tips to make the process a lot easier for you.

Before The Storm:

1. Build an emergency supply kit and make a family communication plan.
2. Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a severe thunderstorm.
3. Postpone outdoor activities.
4. Remember the 30/30 Lighting Safety Rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lighting, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
5. Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.
6. Get inside a home, building, or hard top automobile (not a convertible). Although you may be injured if lighting strikes your car, you are much safer inside a vehicle than outside.
7. Remember, rubbed-soled shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lighting. However, the steel frame of a hard-topped vehicle provides increased protection if you are not touching metal.
8. Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades or curtains.
9. Unplug any electronic equipment well before the storm arrives.

If you have experienced storm damage please give us a call at 256-378-1319 where we can make it "Like it never even happened."

Have you suffered hail damage ? Here's how to tell!

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Are you aware that during a hail storm more than just your vehicles are potentially vulnerable to damage and future repairs? When hail hits, it can damage the roof or covering of your home as well as other personal property. Although hailstorms can be destructive, the amount of damage can vary greatly. Following are some factors that affect the type and degree of damage that may be impacted by a hailstorm, as well as a guide on how to identify hail damage to different types of shingles and roofing materials.

• Wind – During a hailstorm, wind direction and wind speed can vary. Changes in wind conditions can affect the location and severity of hail impacts.
• Size and density – The size of the hailstones can affect the degree of damage, if any, to your property. A hailstone can be as small as a pea, or as large as a softball. Most hailstones do not have smooth edges, which can impact the type of damage they cause.
• Building materials – Building materials absorb hail impacts differently. For example, hail can cause dings in aluminum siding, gutters or asphalt shingles, whereas it can crack vinyl siding or wood shakes. Alternatively, softball-sized hailstones can be dense enough and strong enough to puncture a roof. Additionally, the age and condition of a roof could affect the degree of damage.
• Barriers– The position of neighboring structures and natural barriers, like tree cover, landscaping, fences or adjacent homes can reduce the ability of hail to cause damage.

What Does Hail Damage to Your Roof Look Like?

Shingles can react differently when struck by hail. As an example, hail damage to asphalt and composition shingles can look very different than hail damage to wood shingles. It is important to know the different effects of the damage to properly identify whether or not you have roof damage from hail.

Asphalt and Composition Shingles Hail Damage

• Random damage with no discernible pattern.
• Hail hits that are black in color.
• Loss of granules, which may expose the roof felt.
• Asphalt and/or mat that appears shiny.
• Hail hits that are soft to the touch, like the bruise on an apple.

Wood Shingles Hail Damage

• Random damage with no discernible pattern.
• A split in the shingle that is brown/orange in color.
• A split in the shingle that has sharp corners and edges.
• A split in the shingle that has little to no deterioration at the edges.
• Impact marks or dents along the splits.

There are many other types of damage to shingles that can be mistaken for hail damage. For example, exposure to inclement weather and sunlight makes shingles brittle and gives them an aged appearance. This type of damage is normal wear and tear of shingles, which is sometimes misidentified as hail damage. Other types of normal wear and tear may include blistering, cracking, granule loss, flaking and algae. Manufacturing defects and mechanical imperfections in shingles can also be mistaken for hail damage.

If you believe you have sustained hail damage to your home or business, give SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties a call.  We specialize in the emergency board up to take preventative damage, to fixing the damage to your roof or siding and putting your home or business back together.

Surviving a Flood

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding can happen at anytime and anywhere as a result of rain, snow coastal storms, storm surges and the overflow of dams and water systems. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down and 1 foot of moving water is enough to sweep your vehicle away. Remember the following:

• Depending on where you are and the impact and warning time of the flooding, go to a previously identified safe location.
• If you are told to evacuate, leave immediately. Never drive around barricades that local responders have used to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
• Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
• Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn around.
• Stay off bridges over fast moving water. Bridges can be wash away without warning.
• If your vehicle is trapped in fast moving water, stay inside unless the water is rising inside the vehicle, then seek safety on the roof.
• If trapped in a building, go to the highest level. Do not go into a closed attic where you may be trapped by rising floodwater. Go to the roof if necessary and signal for help.
• Always remember to listen to authorities for information and instructions during a flood situation and return home only when they say it is safe to do so.

If a flood does strike your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties at 256-378-1319 for all your water restoration needs.

Facts about Tornadoes!

5/21/2019 (Permalink)

Every household should have an emergency plan in place before a disaster happens.  And part of that plan should include a stocked, ready to go, emergency preparedness kit.

An emergency preparedness kit is usually needed for you to survive for at least 72 hours. Make sure to keep an emergency kit at home and in your vehicle. Most items are easy to find and inexpensive:

Water – 1 gallon of water per person per day for at least 3 days

Food – Non-perishable food for at least 3 days

Manual can opener for food

Flashlight

Batteries

Hand crank radio or battery powered radio

First aid kit

Whistle

Matches

Dust Mask

Local Maps

Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Prescription medications

Infant formula, diapers, wipes, bottles

 The most powerful Tornadoes occur in the United States.

A typical tornado only lasts for a few minutes.

Every tornado has its own color, sound and shape.

You need to step on the pedal of a car pass 70 miles per hour to outrun the fastest tornadoes.

The chances that a tornado is a F5, the highest classification for a tornado on the F-scale, is less than 0.1%

Tornadoes have been reported in every state in the US and also in every season.

A Tornado can occur at any time, but most often between 3pm and 9pm.

The direction in which a tornado twists depends a lot upon which hemisphere you're in. In general, most tornadoes in the northern hemisphere rotate cyclonically, or counter-clockwise. Only around five percent of tornadoes in the northern hemisphere rotate clockwise, or anti-cyclonically.

 Remember to call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties for all of your needs.

Preparation is the key!

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster and having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive.  Preparation can get you back in the building faster following a disaster.  Don't wait until disaster strikes.  Call us today to establish an Emergency Ready Profile for your property and be ready for whatever happens. 

Build an emergency kit:

- Water (one gallon per person per day)

-Food (Non perishable, 3-day supply)

-Manual can opener

-Battery operated radio

-Flashlight and extra batteries

-First aid kit

-Whistle to signal for help

-Clothing

-Dust masks or bandanas

-Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

-Hygiene items

-Important documents-insurance-financial

-Cash

-Fire Extinguisher

-Matches in waterproof container

Remember to call SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph County!

We are always ready!

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph County, we are always storm ready. As we enter into storm season we stand ready to join store in teams and other franchises across the country to help when disaster strikes. We have been honored to have participated in many storm events and help those in need. It is important to always be prepared with equipment and supplies and properly trained crews because we have to be ready to respond in a moments notice when we get the call. Currently, SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph County is signed up with all five SERVPRO storm teams across the country meeting that we have met all criteria to be a participant. Whether it be storms that come in the shape of hurricanes, tornadoes, hail, ice, or fire, we stand ready to respond to the call when it comes.

Build an Emergency Kit

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

Be Prepared at your home or business with an Emergency Kit. Ready. gov suggests you have enough supplies to last for at least three days. Below are some suggested items to include in your kit: 

• 3 day supply of non-perishable foods
• Water (one+ gallon per person per day) 
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medication 
• Sleeping bag or blankets
• Fire extinguisher
• Hygiene products
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone charger
• Change of clothes
• Matches in waterproof container
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities 
• Whistle to signal for help
• Pet supplies
• Infant formula and diapers
• Important documents such as insurance policies, IDs, and bank records in a plastic container
• You can also keep a condensed emergency kit in your vehicle as well.

For a more extensive list, go check out Ready.gov. 

In a disaster, SERVPRO is "Ready for whatever happens."

7/2/2018 (Permalink)

When a storm or disaster strikes, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is poised and "Ready for whatever happens." With a network of more than 1,700 Franchises, the SERVPRO System strives to be faster to any size disaster. Strategically located throughout the United States, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team is trained and equipped to handle the largest storms and highest flood waters. Providing experience, manpower, equipment, and other resources, the Disaster Recovery Team assists SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Cos Franchise Professionals. SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team has responded to hundreds of disaster events. In the aftermath of a disaster, there is only one objective, to help you make it "Like it never even happened." We helped with 2017 Hurricane Harvey, 2017 Mid-West Flooding, 2018 Mid-Atlantic Freeze, 2018 Indiana Area Microburst, 2018 Mid-West Freeze, 2018 Maryland Flooding.

Storm Damage!

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

Storms and inclement weather can be devastating to any business. Wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding can occur suddenly and cause substantial damage in a matter of minutes. There’s never a convenient time for flooding or storm damage to strike your business. 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.

•  24 Hour Emergency Service
•  Faster to Any Size Disaster
•  A Trusted Leader in the Storm and Water Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
•  Highly Trained Storm and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today (256) 378-1319!

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial storm or water damage emergencies. Regardless of your property type or size, we will respond quickly to clean the property and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Learn more about our training and certifications.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties will respond immediately to the storm or flood event affecting your commercial property, regardless of the size or scope of the damage. We are part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises with special Disaster Recovery Teams placed strategically throughout the country to respond to large scale events and disasters.

We are proud to be a part of our community and strive to provide the residents and business owners in our area the fastest response times and our best work each and every day.

Building Reconstruction

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

When your home or business has been damaged by fire, water, or storm damage, the immediate concern should be temporary protective measures such as placing roof tarps to prevent additional damage, and boarding up to secure the building and remove water and debris.

After protecting and securing the structure, professionals at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties can begin the restoration process. Your home or business may need reconstruction work to get your property back to its preloss condition.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay & Randolph Counties can provide this continuity by supervising a full range of restoration services that will bring a building back to full functionality.

• Board Up
• Carpet Repair and Installation
• Document Drying
• Dry Cleaning
• Drywall Installation
• Drywall Removal
• Electrical
• Electronics Restoration
• Fine Art Restoration
• Furniture Restoration
• General Contracting
• Hardwood Floor Repair
• HVAC Services
• Linoleum Floor Repair
• Marble Floor Repair
• Move Out
• Painting
• Plumbing
• Portable Power
• Roof Tarp
• Roofing Services
• Scalable Resources
• Temporary Fencing
• Temporary Warehouse Space
• Tile Floor Repair
• Tree Removal

Storm!

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Storm and flood damage can be devastating. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today 256-378-1319!

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Water Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises

Why Choose a SERVPRO Franchise Professional?

They’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

Learn More

They're Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

They specialize in water and storm damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have extensive water damage restoration training that enables them to get you back to normal.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

Learn More

They Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have a national network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Team strategically located throughout the country.

Learn More

Regardless of the Storm Damage, They Can Help

Storms occur with little warning and can be especially devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion. Regardless of the type of storm, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can handle any size disaster. During catastrophic storms and major events, our Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with additional resources.

• Flooding caused by heavy rains
• Hurricanes and tidal surges
• Tornadoes and wind damage
• Ice and snowstorms
• Wild fires

Storm Damage Coming Through!!

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

Storms and inclement weather can bring wind damage, heavy rain, and flooding that can devastate any business in a matter of minutes. There’s never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike, and storms don’t just strike during regular business hours; that’s why SERVPRO Franchise Professionals offer 24 hour emergency service 365 days per year.

Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give our Professionals a call and they’ll be there fast with the help you need.

•  24 Hour Emergency Service
•  Faster to Any Size Disaster
•  A Trusted Leader in the Storm and Water Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
•  Highly Trained Storm and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 256-378-1319!

Disaster Recovery Team

The SERVPRO Disaster Recovery Team can provide help whether it’s a tornado, hurricane, blizzard or flood. The SERVPRO System has a network of strategically positioned storm teams on standby should a disaster strike near you. Available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are prepared for the unpredictable. Learn more about the Disaster Recovery Team.

Always Ready To Get Things Done Right

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

In 2016, Baton Rouge, Louisiana got hit with one of the worst floods in US history. In just a few hours, the flood waters were rising and homes and business fell victim to the flooding rain. Residents fled their homes and business owners had no choice but to evacuate as quickly as possible.

The area was completely devastated in a very short time. When home and business owners were finally able to enter back into their properties, the work that needed to be done to clean up what was left was truly overwhelming.

In the meantime, SERVPRO Storm Teams were already making plans to send production crews to the area to help these home and business owners with getting their lives back together. SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties was honored to participate with the SERVPRO Storm Teams in the cleanup efforts. Within hours, we were packed, fully loaded with equipment and crew, and in route. Thousands and thousands of phone calls were flooding our SERVPRO call center from residents of the Baton Rouge area needing our help. As a crew representing our SERVPRO Storm Team, it was our responsibility to contact the customers, schedule on site visits to their home or business, provide a thorough job scope and estimate of required work, and if given the go ahead from the customer, start the cleanup and drying process. We talked to dozens and dozens of home and business owners who needed an expert to help them with the mitigation process. Our production crews provided demo or tear-out service removing carpet, drywall, etc., tested areas for moisture and set up air movers and dehumidifiers, hauled out damaged items, among other services. We monitored equipment daily to make sure the drying process was complete. Sometimes our help meant offering a shoulder to cry on or a hug as we walked through a customer's living room which had been completely destroyed by the floodwaters. It was hard work both physically and emotionally to walk alongside the people we met and work hand-in-hand making a dent in the work that needed to be done.  Our SERVPRO green trucks were everywhere. We are "Faster To Any Size Disaster."

Rain Rain Go Away Come Again Another Day

6/20/2017 (Permalink)

There is never a good time for it to be raining inside a building. But when it's June in Alabama, AND the building is an elementary school, AND over half the building is saturated, AND a new school year is fast approaching we are really in a pickle!  An in-depth job scope and work plan are developed quickly to get the water out and dry the interior. Industrial water extractors, a desiccant dehumidifier the size of a tractor trailer, plenty of staff, and SERVPRO know-how to get the job started quickly and correctly. Working around the clock for days, our employees and hundreds of pieces of equipment work away to get the elementary school cleaned up and ready for the first day of school.  What a sense of satisfaction it is to see this school opening right on time due to the hard work of our SERVPRO employees along with the faculty and staff of the school and the community!! It just goes to show that no job is too big or to small for our SERVPRO team. With over 50 years in the industry, we know just what to do in the case of a water event that causes damage to a school, business or home! We make it "Like it ever even happened"!! 

When storms hit and cause floods

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties 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.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process puts an emphasis on scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring and documentation.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties, 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 256-378-1319

Be Prepared When Storms Hit

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

Whether there is heavy rain, freezing temperatures, damaging winds, or sleet and snow; all of these can cause property damage. You can't control Mother Nature but you can be prepared so here are some tips to help you:

-Check for tree limbs and branches that might have fallen.

-Roofs, pipes and gutters should all be inspected and make sure they are in proper working order. Clear gutters from debris, a damming effect could cause roof damage or interior water problems. Downspouts should be facing away from the home or building.

-Clean your chimneys and exhaust systems from debris.

-Test your gas lines for leaks.

-Inspect your property for proper drainage.

-Protect pipes from freezing by allowing water to drip when temperatures dip below freezing. If any pipes are under cabinets leave the cabinets open. Make sure exterior pipes are properly insulated.

-If there are any outdoor faucets, you might want to shut the water off.

-Make sure all exterior doors and windows have sufficient weather stripping.

Emergency Food List!

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

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

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

• Choose foods your family will eat.

• Remember any special dietary needs.

• Avoid foods that will make you thirsty.

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

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

• Protein or fruit bars

• Dry cereal or granola

• Peanut butter

• Dried fruit

• Nuts

• Crackers

• Canned juices

• Non-perishable pasteurized milk

• High energy foods

• Vitamins

• Food for infants

• Comfort/stress foods

Contact us in any kind of disaster at

       256-378-1319

Wintery Stormy Weather

5/10/2017 (Permalink)

Here in Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties, we get excited when we have even the slightest "threat" of snow. What we usually experience is some flurries, then heavy freezing. So many homeowners are unaware how to handle a situation in which their pipes freeze in these winter storms. 

A heavy winter freeze when your home is unprepared can lead to pipes freezing, cracking and then severe water damage in your home. As bipolar as mother nature is in Alabama, within a few days of this water damage to your home, microbial growth can begin if the right conditions are in place. 

Homeowners also sometimes forget safety precautions when it comes to indoor wood fires, space heaters, and gas logs. One in six home fires during the winter months (December, January, February) are caused by home heating elements. Be sure to check your smoke alarms regularly. Be sure to treat space heaters and fires with EXTRA caution. 

Know that SERVPRO of Talladega, Clay and Randolph Counties is always here to help. 

Call us for water and fire damages at 256-378-1319