What's Sump?

4/21/2024 (Permalink)

Sump pump failure lead to flooding in the basement

The Importance of Sump Pump Maintenance

All too often we at SERVPRO of Mankato/ Owatonna receive frantic calls that a Sump Pump has failed and a basement is flooded.  For us Minnesotans, this is a disaster to all our cherished treasures and holiday décor that we have tucked away for safe keeping.

In Minnesota, where weather can be wildly unpredictable and often harsh, ensuring your home is equipped to handle potential flooding is essential. This makes the maintenance of your sump pump and the installation of a reliable battery backup not just advisable, but necessary.

Why Sump Pump Maintenance Matters in Minnesota

Our climate features everything from heavy spring rains and summer storms to rapid snow melts in late winter. A sump pump plays a crucial role in protecting your home by diverting water away from your foundation. Here are a few key reasons to maintain your system:

Seasonal Readiness: Before the onset of heavy rains or Springtime snow thaws, checking your sump pump can prevent unforeseen failures. Regular maintenance ensures it’s ready to handle increased water volumes.

Prevent Blockages: Debris accumulation in your sump basin can occur.  Regular checks allow you to clear potential blockages, ensuring efficient operation.

Testing: It’s good practice to periodically test your sump pump by pouring water into the basin to ensure it activates and pumps the water out effectively. 

Battery Backup

Power outages are a common occurrence during Minnesota’s severe storms and are precisely that moment when you need your sump pump the most! A battery backup system is critical for these reasons:

Uninterrupted Protection: A battery backup ensures that your sump pump operates continuously, even during a blackout, safeguarding your home from rising water.

Secondary Support: If the primary pump fails from mechanical issues or if the water influx is too great, having a battery-powered backup pump can provide the additional support needed to prevent flooding.

Reliability When Needed Most: Knowing that your home’s defenses against water damage will hold up even during power outages can bring immense peace of mind during the volatile storm seasons typical in Minnesota.

Choosing the Right Backup System

Selecting an appropriate battery backup involves several considerations:

• Capacity: Choose a battery with sufficient capacity to support your sump pump through extended power outages common in Minnesota’s storm season.
• Durability: Select a high-quality, maintenance-free battery designed for sump pump use, which can withstand the rigors of frequent use.
• System Compatibility: Ensure the backup system is compatible with your existing sump pump configuration.
• Professional Installation: Considering the critical nature of this system, professional installation can ensure optimal functionality and safety.

For Minnesota homeowners, the combination of regular sump pump maintenance and a reliable battery backup system is your best defense against basement flooding. A proactive approach not only prevents the inconvenience and cost of water damage but also protects your home.

Storm Season if Upon Us

4/10/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is your trusted partner in storm damage water restoration services 24/7

For us Minnesotans, perfect sunny Summer days are cherished, mainly because we know winter is right around the the corner! 

But Summer also means storms can come out of anywhere and we should be prepared. At SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, we understand the unique challenges that Minnesotans face during this season and want to equip you with expert tips to navigate and minimize the impact of storms.

Stay Informed

Knowledge is your best defense against unpredictable weather. Stay tuned to local weather forecasts and invest in a reliable weather app to receive real-time updates. Understanding the forecast allows you to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions ahead of time.

Prepare Your Property

Inspect your home or business  for potential vulnerabilities. Ensure that your roof, windows, and doors are in good condition to withstand heavy winds and rain. Trim overhanging branches and secure loose outdoor items to prevent them from becoming projectiles during high winds.

Create an Emergency Kit

Be ready for power outages and potential evacuation by assembling an emergency kit. Include essentials such as non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, batteries, important documents, and any necessary medications. Having a well-prepared kit can provide peace of mind and make a significant difference during storm-related challenges.

Protect Your Basement

Basements are particularly susceptible to flooding during spring storms. Ensure your sump pump is in working order and consider installing a battery-powered backup. Elevate valuables off the basement floor to reduce the risk of water damage.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

Evaluate your homeowners' insurance policy to ensure it adequately covers potential storm-related damages. Understand the extent of your coverage, including provisions for wind and water damage. Consider adding additional coverage if needed.

Seek Professional Restoration Services

In the unfortunate event of storm damage, trust SERVPRO's expertise in storm and flood damage restoration. Our highly trained professionals are equipped to handle the aftermath, from water extraction to structural drying and comprehensive cleanup like mold.

By proactively implementing these tips, you can better safeguard your home and family during the unpredictable weather in Minnesota. At SERVPRO®, we're here to support you with industry-leading restoration services when storms strike. Stay safe, stay prepared, and let us help you weather the storms this spring.

If you’re experiencing water, fire, or storm damage in your home and need professional restoration services, call us  at 507-200-3700.

Revitalize Your Space with SERVPRO's Expert Spring Cleaning Tips

3/19/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® is your trusted partner in cleaning and restoration.

As spring emerges, it brings with it the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your living spaces. SERVPRO®, your trusted partner in cleaning and restoration, is here to guide you through effective spring cleaning, ensuring a healthier and happier home and office building. Follow our expert tips to make the most of your spring cleaning endeavors.

Develop a Comprehensive Cleaning Plan:

Start by creating a thorough cleaning plan that encompasses all areas. Prioritize tasks, focusing on high-traffic areas, forgotten nooks, and commonly overlooked spaces. A well-organized plan will help you stay on track and ensure no corner is left untouched.

Declutter and Organize:

Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to declutter and organize your living spaces. Sort through items, donate what you no longer need, and find proper storage solutions. Decluttering not only creates a visually appealing environment but also promotes a sense of calm and order.

Focus on Air Quality:

Consider the quality of the air you breathe in your home. Clean or replace HVAC filters, vacuum, and dust regularly, and invest in air purifiers to reduce allergens and enhance indoor air quality. SERVPRO offers professional air duct cleaning services for a more comprehensive approach.

Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery:

Refresh your carpets and upholstery by scheduling a professional cleaning. SERVPRO's advanced cleaning techniques can remove embedded dirt and allergens, leaving your carpets and furniture looking and feeling revitalized.

Sanitize High-Touch Surfaces:

In the current health-conscious climate, it's essential to prioritize the sanitization of high-touch surfaces. Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, countertops, and other frequently used areas to create a hygienic living environment for your family.

Inspect and Clean Appliances:

Extend the lifespan of your appliances by giving them a thorough cleaning. Clear out refrigerator coils, clean oven interiors, and descale coffee makers. Regular maintenance not only enhances efficiency but also contributes to a healthier home.

Consider Professional Cleaning Services:

For a truly deep and comprehensive clean, consider enlisting the expertise of SERVPRO. Our trained professionals utilize advanced cleaning technologies and eco-friendly solutions to tackle even the toughest cleaning challenges.

Green Cleaning Practices:

Embrace eco-friendly cleaning practices by opting for green cleaning products. These environmentally conscious solutions are effective and safe for your family and pets, ensuring a sustainable and responsible approach to spring cleaning.

As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, let SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna be your partner in achieving a cleaner, healthier home or office space. Our expert tips, coupled with professional cleaning services, will leave your space revitalized and ready to welcome the vibrant energy of spring. Trust SERVPRO to bring a new level of cleanliness and freshness to your living spaces. Call us today at 507-200-3700

SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated.

Technicians that go Above and Beyond

3/18/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians exceeding customer satisfaction.

At SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna, exceeding customer expectations is our priority. We are committed to helping you overcome water damage and other disasters, striving to make the restoration process as seamless as possible. With SERVPRO, you can trust that your property is in capable hands, and we'll work tirelessly to ensure that it's "Like it never even happened."

"Our production manager Kyle Crout was fantastic. He was very thorough as well as extremely polite and empathetic. He took care of our home as though it was his own. 100% would recommend Kyle for any job you may have for SERVPRO! I felt confident that my home was water-free after he completed his recommended water mitigation treatment."

Jennifer S.

At SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna, our technicians treat your home and belongings with the utmost care and respect, just as they would their own. We prioritize thoroughness, politeness, and empathy in our service, ensuring that your property is restored to its pre-damage condition efficiently and effectively. We're always Here to Help® Call us today at 507-200-3700 for prompt and professional restoration services.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Choose SERVPRO for your restoration needs.

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

Choosing the right cleaning and restoration provider is important.

When disaster strikes, choosing the right restoration partner is paramount to reclaiming normalcy swiftly and efficiently. At SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, our commitment to excellence sets us apart as the preferred choice for restoration services.

IICRC Certifications:

SERVPRO® proudly holds certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), a globally recognized standard-setting body for the restoration industry. Our technicians undergo rigorous training to achieve and maintain these certifications, ensuring that they are equipped with the latest industry knowledge and techniques.

Ongoing Training:

At SERVPRO, we believe in the power of continuous learning. Our technicians participate in ongoing training programs to stay abreast of the latest advancements in restoration technology and methodology. This commitment to education ensures that our team is well-prepared to handle any restoration challenge with precision and expertise.

High-Powered Industrial Drying Equipment:

Efficiency is at the core of our restoration process. SERVPRO invests in cutting-edge, high-powered industrial drying equipment to expedite the drying and restoration phases. Our advanced technology allows us to mitigate damage swiftly, minimizing the impact on your property and reducing downtime.

Technicians Striving for Excellence:

Our team of dedicated technicians is driven by a passion for excellence. From initial assessment to the final touches of restoration, our professionals are committed to delivering the highest standard of service. Each member of the SERVPRO team takes pride in their work, ensuring that every restoration project is completed with meticulous attention to detail.

Customer Satisfaction:

At SERVPRO, customer satisfaction is not just a goal – it's our commitment. We understand the stress and disruption that comes with property damage, and our team is dedicated to providing empathetic, responsive, and reliable service. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we go above and beyond to exceed your expectations.

Choose SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for a restoration experience that combines industry expertise, advanced technology, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. When you trust SERVPRO, you're choosing a partner dedicated to restoring not just your property but also your peace of mind. We’re always Here to Help.®

SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated.

Minnesota Fluctuating Temperatures Could Lead to Hidden Mold Growth

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

Mold can thrive in environments with fluctuating temperatures.

As Minnesota temperatures fluctuate, many homeowners may not be aware of the hidden threat that can emerge within their living spaces—mold. Mold thrives in environments with moisture, and fluctuating temperatures can create ideal conditions for its growth. Unfortunately, temperature variations contribute to mold issues and why calling a restoration professional like SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna is essential for effective remediation.

Condensation Concerns:

Fluctuating temperatures often lead to condensation, especially in areas with high humidity. When warm air meets a cool surface, moisture can accumulate, creating a breeding ground for mold. Areas prone to condensation, such as windows, walls, and ceilings, should be closely monitored.

Hidden Havens for Mold:

Temperature fluctuations can create thermal bridges in buildings, causing cold spots. These areas may go unnoticed but can harbor mold growth. Dark, damp corners or spaces behind walls can become havens for mold, posing a threat to indoor air quality.

Moisture Buildup in HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can experience condensation and moisture buildup when temperatures change rapidly. Mold can then thrive in the damp conditions of these systems, spreading spores throughout the home.

Importance of Professional Assessment:

Recognizing the signs of mold isn't always easy, especially when it lurks in hidden or less accessible areas. Calling a restoration professional, such as SERVPRO, is crucial for a comprehensive assessment. These experts can identify the extent of the mold issue and develop a tailored remediation plan.

Effective Remediation Techniques:

Restoration professionals have the expertise and tools to address mold issues effectively. Our technicians will employ advanced techniques like containment, air filtration, and precise removal to ensure thorough remediation. DIY solutions may not provide long-term results, making professional intervention essential.

Fluctuating temperatures can indeed elevate the risk of mold growth in our homes. To safeguard against this hidden threat, it's vital to stay vigilant, especially in areas prone to condensation and thermal bridges. When mold is suspected in your Owatonna or Waseca home, seeking the expertise of restoration professionals like SERVPRO ensures a thorough assessment and effective mold remediation plan that fits your specific mold problems. We’re Here to Help® you 24/7/52 and can be reached at 507-200-3700 for all your fire, water mold mitigation, and clean-up needs.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Trust SERVPRO to handle all your fire damage restoration needs

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

Trust the SERVPRO experts to handle your fire damage with the utmost precaution, care, and consideration

At SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna, we acknowledge the profound impact a fire can have on your life. From the origin of the fire to the extent of the damage, including what was burned and how far the soot and smoke have permeated, our dedicated teams consider every aspect. At SERVPRO, we grasp the emotional toll a fire can exact, and that's why we approach every restoration project with the utmost precaution, care, and consideration for your home's belongings. Our franchises are dedicated to providing professional, compassionate, and thorough fire damage restoration services to help you navigate through the aftermath of a fire with confidence.

Certified Expertise:

Our technicians undergo rigorous training in the art of restore vs replace when it comes to fire damage restoration services. Certified by the Institute of Inspection and Restoration Certification (IICRC), our team is equipped to handle the intricacies of each unique fire damage situation. We strive to alleviate the burden on our clients with expertise, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

Advanced Methods and Equipment:

Utilizing state-of-the-art methods and equipment, our certified crews employ a range of tools for comprehensive fire damage restoration, including:

• HEPA Air Scrubbers
• Air Duct Cleaning and Sanitizing
• Ozone Generators
• Thermal Fogging
• Vapor Modifications
• Hydroxyl Generators
• Specific Cleaning Solutions tailored to remove smoke and soot particles from various materials.

Turning Disasters into Restoration:

At SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, our certified, experienced, and highly skilled crews make fire damage disasters "Like it never even happened." We understand the importance of restoring not just the physical damage but also the sense of normalcy and comfort within your home.

If you've experienced a fire in your Eagle Lake home or business, trust the compassionate experts at SERVPRO. Call us as soon as it is safe to do so at (507)-200-3700.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Our SERVPRO teams are available 24/7 for you!

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

Our commitment to restoring your property with precision and care!

When water wreaks havoc on your property through floods, leaks, or other unforeseen events, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna stands as your trusted partner for a comprehensive restoration. Armed with both professional expertise and cutting-edge equipment, we specialize in the meticulous restoration of homes and businesses after any size disaster. Our team's professionalism is exemplified not only by our Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) certification but also by our extensive experience, exceptional skills, and state-of-the-art equipment.

Professional Approach:

With a scientific approach to water removal and damage cleanup, our seasoned professionals are well-versed in addressing the aftermath of floods, leaks, and water-related incidents. We bring a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring that every step of the restoration process is executed with precision and efficiency.

Client Testimonial:

“We were on vacation, and our neighbor discovered a burst pipe in our basement. Unsure of what to do, she remembered a magnet from SERVPRO® at the Steele County fair and gave them a call. Their prompt response, assistance in turning off the water main, and comprehensive restoration efforts saved our home from extensive damage. From drying the house to coordinating with the plumber and handling insurance paperwork, their professionalism and support were invaluable.”

24/7/52 Availability:

Water damage can strike at any time, day or night. Recognizing the urgency of such situations, our Mankato/Owatonna professionals are available 24/7/52. Whether it's a minor leak or a major flood, our dedicated team is ready to provide emergency water and flood damage restoration services promptly and efficiently.

In times of water-related emergencies, trust SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for unparalleled professionalism, expertise, and reliability. 

Our commitment to restoring your property with precision and care sets us apart as your go-to partner in water damage restoration.

Elevating Business Safety Amidst COVID Variants

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

Allow SERVPRO to navigate the challenges posed by COVID variants for your business.

In the face of evolving challenges posed by various COVID variants, businesses are striving to create a safe and welcoming environment for their customers. At SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna, we understand the critical importance of instilling confidence and peace of mind in both business owners and patrons. Our Certified SERVPRO Cleaned program offers a comprehensive solution, ensuring businesses are not only compliant with health guidelines but also go above and beyond to provide a meticulously sanitized space.

The SERVPRO Certified Clean Advantage:

Expertise in Biohazard Cleaning

Our technicians are well-versed in biohazard cleaning, including the thorough removal of viruses and bacteria. We follow the highest standards set by health authorities to guarantee a safe and hygienic space for your customers.

Tailored Cleaning Protocols

Recognizing that different businesses have unique needs, we tailor our cleaning protocols to suit your specific industry. From retail spaces and offices to restaurants and healthcare facilities, our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program is adaptable to various business environments.

Use of EPA-Approved Disinfectants

We exclusively use EPA-approved disinfectants that are effective against a wide range of pathogens, including coronaviruses. Our cleaning products are safe for both surfaces and occupants while ensuring optimal disinfection.

Cutting-Edge Equipment and Techniques

Equipped with advanced technology and industry-leading techniques, our teams employ state-of-the-art tools to achieve maximum efficacy in cleaning and disinfection. This includes fogging, electrostatic spraying, and targeted surface cleaning.

As businesses navigate the challenges posed by COVID variants, the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program emerges as a beacon of assurance. Contact SERVPRO today at 507-200-3700 to schedule your business's Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned service and let us be your partner in creating a safer and healthier space for all.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Safeguard Your Office Space with SERVPRO's Swift Response to Commercial Water Damage

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

Don't Let Water Damage Dampen Your Office and Commercial Space

Water damage in commercial spaces can be a costly and disruptive ordeal, impacting your business operations and overall productivity. When unforeseen water emergencies disrupt your office space, swift and reliable action is crucial to getting your operation back up and running quickly. At SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, we are the certified experts ready to tackle commercial water damage with speed, precision, and a commitment to minimizing downtime for your business.

Rapid Emergency Response:

Water damage doesn't wait, and neither do we. Our certified professionals are available 24/7 to respond swiftly to your commercial water damage emergencies. The faster we address the issue, the better we can mitigate damages and reduce the overall impact on your business.

Certified Expertise:

Trust the experts in commercial water damage restoration. Our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), ensuring that they bring the highest level of knowledge and skills to every project.

Advanced Equipment and Techniques:

Equipped with state-of-the-art tools and advanced techniques, our teams can efficiently extract water, dry affected areas, and restore your office space to pre-damage conditions. Our commitment to using cutting-edge technology sets us apart in delivering reliable and effective results.

Comprehensive Restoration Services:

From assessing the extent of the damage to implementing a tailored restoration plan, SERVPRO® covers every aspect of the water damage restoration process. Our goal is to get your office space back to normal as quickly as possible, minimizing disruptions to your business operations.

Insurance Coordination:

Dealing with insurance paperwork can be overwhelming during a water damage crisis. Our professionals assist in coordinating with your insurance provider, providing documentation, and ensuring a seamless claims process, reducing stress and saving you valuable time.

Water damage can strike any Mankato area business unexpectedly, jeopardizing the functionality and aesthetics of your office space. Don't let it disrupt your business operations. Trust SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to handle commercial water damage emergencies promptly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on what matters most – your business. Call SERVPRO, the certified experts at 507-200-3700 for a fast and reliable response to your water damage emergencies.

SERVPRO's Expertise in Biohazard Cleanup and Restoration

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's certified technicians are available 24/7 for biohazard clean up.

When faced with a biohazardous situation, it is essential to turn to professionals with the knowledge, experience, and specialized equipment to handle the cleanup and restoration effectively.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is a trusted leader in the restoration industry, and stands out for its expertise in biohazard cleanup and restoration services.

SERVPRO's certified technicians are trained to handle a wide range of biohazard situations, including crime scenes, trauma incidents, sewage backups, and hazardous material spills. With a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and sanitation, our professionals approach each biohazard cleanup with meticulous attention to detail.

One key aspect of SERVPRO's biohazard cleanup services is the adherence to industry regulations and guidelines. Our team follows protocols established by health and safety authorities, ensuring that the cleanup process is thorough and compliant. We understand the sensitivity of these situations and the potential risks involved, which is why we prioritize the safety of both our team and the occupants of the affected space.

SERVPRO® uses professional equipment and advanced cleaning techniques to decontaminate and restore affected areas. This includes specialized cleaning agents, air scrubbers, and personal protective equipment to ensure a comprehensive and safe cleanup process. Whether it's removing biohazardous materials such as blood, bodily fluids, viruses, disinfecting surfaces, or addressing lingering odors, our professionals are equipped to handle the entire restoration process.

In addition to technical expertise, SERVPRO excels in providing compassionate and discreet services during challenging times. Our professionals understand the emotional toll of biohazard incidents and approach each project with empathy and professionalism within homes, commercial businesses, childcare centers, schools, or elderly care homes.

Biohazard situations demand a prompt and thorough response.

Trust SERVPRO for unparalleled expertise, adherence to safety standards, and a commitment to restoring biohazard-affected spaces to a clean and safe condition.

Call us today at 507-200-3700. We’re always Here to Help®.

Swift Kitchen Water Damage Mitigation and Restoration After Garbage Disposal Leak

1/30/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responds swiftly to a kitchen garbage disposal leak.

Experiencing water damage in your kitchen due to a garbage disposal leak can be a stressful situation. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna has your back. You can trust that your mitigation and restoration needs will be handled with precision and efficiency.

Identifying the Issue:

The first step in handling kitchen water damage resulting from a garbage disposal leak is to promptly identify the source. Our trained technicians will conduct a thorough inspection to pinpoint the exact cause, whether it's a malfunctioning appliance, damaged pipes, or faulty connections.

Mitigation Measures:

Once the source is identified, our team implements immediate mitigation measures to prevent further damage. This includes stopping the leak, extracting standing water, and utilizing advanced equipment to dry affected areas promptly. Acting swiftly is crucial to prevent mold growth and structural damage.

Specialized Cleaning:

Our experts employ specialized cleaning techniques to ensure that all affected surfaces are returned to a sanitized, safe and healthy environment in your kitchen, again.

Structural Drying:

To prevent long-term damage, we use state-of-the-art drying equipment to eliminate excess moisture from walls, floors, and ceilings. This step is vital in preserving the structural integrity of your kitchen and preventing the growth of mold and mildew.

Restoration Services:

Dealing with water damage in the kitchen caused by a leaking garbage disposal can be a challenging situation but you don’t have to deal with the mess on your own. At SERVPRO, we specialize in providing professional water damage mitigation and restoration services and are always  Here to Help® make kitchen flood disasters “Like it never even happened.” Contact us today at 507-200-3700 for swift and reliable assistance in restoring your kitchen to its former glory.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Frozen pipebreaks in Minnesota happen, SERVPRO has you covered.

1/10/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is available 24/7 for all your restoration emergencies.

Pipe breaks in Minnesota can pose significant hazards to homes, making timely inspection by SERVPRO® professionals crucial. The state's frigid temperatures amplify the risk of pipes freezing and bursting, leading to water damage that can wreak havoc on residences. When left unaddressed, these pipe breaks can result in severe structural damage, compromising the integrity of a home.

One of the primary concerns is water damage to walls, ceilings, and floors. The leakage from a burst pipe can saturate building materials, fostering the growth of mold and mildew. Additionally, water seepage can weaken the foundation and structural supports, leading to long-term issues that may be more costly to repair if not addressed immediately by a professional restoration provider such as SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna.

Another potential hazard is the damage to electrical systems. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and a pipe break can expose wiring to moisture, increasing the risk of short circuits, electrical fires, and other safety hazards. Immediate inspection by SERVPRO professionals is essential to mitigate these risks and ensure your home or business’s safety.

SERVPRO's expertise lies in comprehensive damage restoration, addressing visible water damage and potential hidden threats. Their trained professionals can assess the extent of the damage, implement effective drying techniques, and prevent secondary issues such as mold growth. By relying on SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for pipe break inspections, homeowners in Mapleton and surrounding areas can safeguard their properties from extensive damage and protect the well-being of their families.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is always Here to Help® with all your restoration needs and can be reached at 507-200-3700

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO's 24/7 Restoration Rescues Frozen pipe disaster

1/10/2024 (Permalink)

An undetected Frozen Pipe Break in a wall caused extensive damage.

Bathroom frozen pipe restoration can be a homeowner's nightmare, especially in regions like Minnesota where freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on plumbing. When faced with a flooded bathroom due to a burst pipe, a swift and effective response is essential. In such crises, SERVPRO® professionals stand out as the go-to solution for comprehensive restoration.

The 1-4-8 response guideline of SERVPRO ensures a rapid and efficient approach.

1. Within the first hour of your call (the 1), SERVPRO teams mobilize to assess the situation. This quick response is critical in mitigating further damage and minimizing the overall restoration costs.
2. The next four hours (the 4) involve formulating a detailed restoration plan and communicating it to the homeowner and insurance representatives. This transparency ensures that everyone is on the same page and allows for quick decision-making.
3. Finally, within eight hours of your initial call (the 8), SERVPRO professionals initiate the restoration process. This includes water extraction, drying, and addressing potential secondary damages such as mold growth. The efficiency of the 1-4-8 response model is a testament to SERVPRO's commitment to swift and thorough restoration, ensuring that your bathroom returns to its pre-flood condition.

Tip: If you don't regularly use an extra bathroom in your basement home, keep the doors open to allow warm air circulation to both the plumbing and bathroom to prevent frozen pipes. 

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna’s expertise extends beyond just fixing visible water damage; they understand the importance of addressing underlying issues to prevent future problems such as mold. By entrusting your bathroom frozen pipe restoration to SERVPRO professionals, you not only ensure a prompt and effective solution but also gain peace of mind knowing that your home is in capable hands. Don't let a burst pipe turn into a prolonged headache—make SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna your first and only call for swift, reliable restoration.

Call us today at 507-200-3700 for prompt, efficient, and reliable restoration services. We are here to make the frozen pipe damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Professionals Remediate All Your Mold Concerns

1/10/2024 (Permalink)

Count on SERVPRO to address and inspect all your mold concerns.

Mold remediation demands a prompt and professional response, making SERVPRO® the ultimate choice for comprehensive restoration services. The challenging climate in Minnesota can create conditions ripe for mold growth, especially after water damage incidents. When faced with mold issues, it's crucial to act swiftly, and SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna’s expertise in mold remediation ensures a thorough and effective restoration process.

SERVPRO's trained technicians utilize advanced techniques to identify and eliminate mold at its source. Their mold remediation process involves not only removing visible mold but also addressing the underlying moisture issues to prevent future outbreaks. This comprehensive approach is crucial in the Minnesota climate, where damp conditions can persist, providing an ideal environment for mold to thrive.

Beyond mold remediation, SERVPRO excels in restoration services, ensuring that your property is returned to its pre-mold condition. You can count on our certified technician's restoration expertise. The seamless integration of mold remediation and restoration services sets SERVPRO apart as a one-stop solution for homeowners and business owners facing the challenges of mold-infested environments.

By choosing SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for mold remediation, you benefit from their commitment to excellence, advanced technology, and the assurance that your property will be restored to a safe and healthy environment.

Don't let mold compromise your home or business—trust SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for expert mold remediation and comprehensive restoration services tailored to the unique needs of our Minnesota climate. From Owatonna, Waseca, to Mankato or the St. Peter and surrounding areas, SERVPRO is Here to Help. Call us today at 507-200-3700 for help with any mold concerns. Were always Here to Help®

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

24/7 Commercial Water Damage Restoration

1/10/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO responds 24/7 to commercial property flooding.

In the realm of commercial enterprises, the impact of water damage can be substantial, both financially and operationally. Swift and efficient restoration is paramount to minimize downtime and ensure the continuity of business operations. When faced with the daunting task of commercial water damage restoration, choosing a certified professional like SERVPRO® becomes a non-negotiable step toward a successful recovery.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets the industry standard for water damage restoration. Opting for a certified IICRC professional guarantees that the restoration process adheres to the highest industry standards. Among the top-tier providers in this realm, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna stands out as a trusted name, holding IICRC certifications that underscore their commitment to excellence.

SERVPRO's certified technicians bring a wealth of experience to commercial water damage restoration scenarios. Their proficiency in utilizing advanced equipment and industry-best practices ensures a prompt and thorough restoration process. From water extraction to structural drying and comprehensive cleanup, SERVPRO's services cover the spectrum of commercial water damage restoration needs.

Choosing SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna not only ensures a meticulous restoration but also provides peace of mind to business owners. With the complexities associated with commercial spaces, the proficiency and reliability of a certified provider become invaluable.

By entrusting your commercial water damage restoration to SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, you not only safeguard your property but also expedite the return to normal business operations. Prioritize the expertise that comes with IICRC certification and elevate your commercial water damage restoration experience with a trusted industry leader. Call us today at 507-200-3700. Were always Here to Help® make commercial floods “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated.

Merry Christmas & Fire Safety tips during the Holiday Season

12/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Wishes All a Happy & Safe Holiday Season!

The holiday season is upon us, and as we gather around the warmth of our homes to celebrate Christmas, it's essential to prioritize safety. While twinkling lights, crackling fires, and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere, they can also pose potential fire hazards. At SERVPRO®, we understand the importance of a safe and joyous holiday season. Here are some valuable fire safety tips to ensure your Christmas is merry and bright for all the right reasons.

1. Mindful Decorating

Tip: Choose decorations wisely, opting for flame-resistant or flame-retardant materials. Keep decorations, especially those made of paper or fabric, away from heat sources such as candles and heaters.

2. Responsible Lighting

Tip: Inspect all Christmas lights before hanging them. Replace any damaged or frayed wires, and avoid overloading electrical outlets or extension cords. Turn off decorative lights before leaving home or going to bed.

3. Cautious Candle Use

Tip: Consider using flameless LED candles instead of traditional candles. If you choose traditional candles, keep them in sturdy holders on a stable surface, away from flammable items.

4. Smart Tree Care

Tip: If you have a live Christmas tree, water it regularly to prevent it from drying out. Keep it away from heat sources and ensure that the tree stand is stable. Dry trees are highly flammable. Proper hydration reduces the risk of your beautiful tree becoming a fire hazard.

5. Fireplace Safety

Tip: If you're enjoying a roaring fire in the fireplace, never leave it unattended. Use a sturdy screen to keep sparks contained, and have the chimney inspected and cleaned regularly.

6. Emergency Preparedness

Tip: Ensure everyone in your household knows the location of fire exits and how to use fire extinguishers. Develop and practice a fire escape plan, especially if you have guests during the holidays.

This holiday season, let's prioritize the safety and well-being of our loved ones. By following these fire safety tips from SERVPRO, you can create a festive and secure environment for a Christmas filled with joy and cherished memories. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna would like to wish you and your family a safe, happy, and cozy holiday season!

SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated

Making flooded basements "Like it never even happened."

12/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO rescues another flooded basement.

SERVPRO is Your Trusted Partner in Property Damage Recovery & Restoration.

When water damage strikes, especially in basements, a swift and effective response is crucial to prevent secondary damage such as mold or further structural damage to your home. SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna stands out as your reliable partner in property restoration, employing advanced tools and industrial equipment to ensure optimal results in every situation.

Advanced Tools and Industrial Equipment:

At SERVPRO®, we lead the restoration industry with cutting-edge tools and industrial equipment. Our technicians utilize state-of-the-art moisture detection devices, thermal imaging cameras, and advanced drying equipment. This technology enables accurate assessment of water damage and the creation of customized restoration plans tailored to your specific needs.

Basement Floods: Year-Round Challenges:

Basement floods are a common and year-round challenge for property owners. Whether caused by heavy rain, plumbing failures, pipe breaks due to freezing conditions or natural disasters, the aftermath of a basement flood can be devastating. SERVPRO recognizes the unique challenges posed by basement water damage and has developed specialized techniques to address these situations comprehensively.

Make SERVPRO Your Reliable Partner:

Choosing SERVPRO as your restoration partner means entrusting your property to a team of highly trained professionals committed to delivering exceptional results. Our rapid response, advanced tools, and industry-leading equipment set us apart in the realm of water damage restoration. We work tirelessly to minimize downtime and restore your property to its pre-damage condition, making us the reliable partner you can count on in times of crisis. We also work directly with your insurance company to make the experience less of an inconvenience.

If you experience a flood of any size in your New Richland home, call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700. We are always Here to Help® make basement flood disasters “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Responds Rapidly to Bathroom Floods

12/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help® after toilet flood disasters!

SERVPRO®, Your Trusted Partner in Property Damage Recovery & Restoration

When water damage strikes, especially in basements, a swift and effective response is crucial to prevent secondary damage such as mold or other structural damage to your home. SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna stands out as your reliable partner in property restoration, employing advanced tools and industrial equipment to ensure optimal results in every situation.

Advanced Tools and Industrial Equipment:

At SERVPRO, we lead the restoration industry with cutting-edge tools and industrial equipment. Our technicians utilize state-of-the-art moisture detection devices, thermal imaging cameras, and advanced drying equipment. This technology enables accurate assessment of water damage and the creation of customized restoration plans tailored to your specific needs.

Basement Floods: Year-Round Challenges:

Basement floods are a common and year-round challenge for property owners. Whether caused by heavy rain, plumbing failures, pipe breaks due to freezing conditions or natural disasters, the aftermath of a basement flood can be devastating. SERVPRO recognizes the unique challenges posed by basement water damage and has developed specialized techniques to address these situations comprehensively.

Making SERVPRO Your Reliable Partner:

Choosing SERVPRO as your restoration partner means entrusting your property to a team of highly trained professionals committed to delivering exceptional results. Our rapid response, advanced tools, and industry-leading equipment set us apart in the realm of water damage restoration. We work tirelessly to minimize downtime and restore your property to its pre-damage condition, making us the reliable partner you can count on in times of crisis.

If you experience a flood of any size, call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700. We are always Here to Help® make basement flood disasters “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Water damage in basements is a year-round challenge that demands prompt and professional attention. SERVPRO's commitment to utilizing advanced tools and industrial equipment, coupled with our expertise in handling basement floods, makes us the ideal partner for property restoration. When water damage strikes, make the smart choice—choose SERVPRO for swift, efficient, and reliable restoration services. Our focus on advanced technology and unparalleled expertise ensures that your property is in the best hands, allowing you to recover and move forward with confidence.

Facing a toilet flood or overflow is a homeowner's nightmare, with the potential for significant structural damage looming. However, making the right choice in the aftermath can make all the difference. Choosing SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna restoration services after a toilet-related disaster as your trusted partner in property restoration is a smart choice. It is crucial to take swift action to prevent further structural damage. Insurance companies trust SERVPRO as a preferred restoration provider because of our advanced technology, techniques, and professional drying equipment along with our immense training and knowledge to effectively and thoroughly complete restoration after floods.

Preventing Structural Damage with Quick Action:

Time is of the essence when dealing with toilet floods. Swift action is crucial to prevent water from seeping into walls, floors, and structural elements, causing long-term damage. SERVPRO's rapid response team understands the urgency and is equipped to mitigate the damage promptly.

Advanced Tools and Techniques:

SERVPRO utilizes advanced tools and techniques to address toilet-related floods efficiently. From moisture detection devices to specialized drying equipment, our training and tools are designed to assess and restore your property with precision. By employing cutting-edge technology, SERVPRO ensures a thorough restoration process, minimizing the risk of structural damage.

Professional Industrial Equipment:

Industrial-grade equipment is a hallmark of SERVPRO's restoration services. High-powered extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers work in unison to remove excess water, dry affected areas, and restore your property to its pre-flood condition. This professional equipment is instrumental in preventing secondary damage like mold growth and structural issues to your property.

Faster to Any Size Disaster:

SERVPRO takes pride in its ability to respond rapidly to emergencies. Whether your home or business is affected, choosing SERVPRO as your response to floods ensures that the restoration process begins promptly, reducing the potential for additional extensive structural damage that may not be covered by your insurance policy.

Direct Collaboration with Insurance Companies:

Navigating flood claims can be a complex process, but SERVPRO simplifies it by working directly with insurance companies. Our experienced team understands the intricacies of flood claims, ensuring a smoother and more efficient process for homeowners.

SERVPRO is Here to Help®

By choosing SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, homeowners, and businesses can rest easy knowing that their property is in capable hands, with a team dedicated to restoring it to its pre-flood condition promptly and efficiently. For comprehensive restoration service, call us today at 507-200-3700 for complete and professional mitigation.

SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Responds 24/7 to Fire Damage

12/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help you take back control of your life after a fire damage event.

As winter sets in, the risk of home fires increases significantly, making the need for prompt and professional fire damage restoration crucial. SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna stands out as a reliable partner for comprehensive fire and smoke damage.

The most common fire-related incidents occurring in the winter months are:

Heating Equipment Issues: Malfunctioning or improperly maintained heating equipment, such as furnaces, space heaters, and fireplaces, can be a common cause of winter fires. Lack of maintenance, mechanical failures, or ventilation issues can lead to fire hazards.

Electrical Fires: Increased use of electrical appliances, holiday decorations, and heating devices during winter can contribute to electrical fires. Overloaded circuits, damaged wiring, or the use of unsafe electrical practices can be factors in these incidents.

Cooking Fires: Cooking-related fires are a year-round concern, but during the winter, there may be an uptick in home-cooked meals and holiday cooking. Unattended stovetops, misuse of kitchen appliances, or flammable items near heat sources can lead to fires.

Chimney Fires: Fireplaces are commonly used in winter for warmth and ambiance. Failure to clean chimneys regularly can result in the buildup of creosote, increasing the risk of chimney fires.

Candle-related Fires: Candles are often used for decoration and during holiday celebrations. If left unattended or placed too close to flammable materials, they can cause fires.

Carbon Monoxide Incidents: Increased use of heating appliances can lead to carbon monoxide leaks if the equipment is not properly maintained. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can pose serious health risks and fire hazards.

Residents need to be vigilant about fire safety during the winter months, follow proper maintenance practices, and have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in place.

Fortunately, if you or your Ellendale home or business experiences a fire, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help® and can be reached at 507-200-3700 for all your fire and smoke-related damage restoration needs.

SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Your Reliable Partner in Winter Fire Damage Restoration

12/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is available 24/7 for emergency fire and smoke damage restoration.

Winter fires pose a significant threat to homes, and the aftermath requires a swift and professional response. SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help® make fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

Swift Response:

Time is of the essence in fire damage restoration, and SERVPRO's commitment to a rapid response ensures that a team of experts is on-site promptly to assess and mitigate the damage.

Comprehensive Restoration Services:

From smoke and soot removal to structural repairs, SERVPRO offers end-to-end fire damage restoration services. Their experienced technicians address every aspect of the aftermath, ensuring a thorough recovery process.

Advanced Technology and Techniques:

SERVPRO's state-of-the-art tools and techniques to tackle fire and smoke damage effectively. This includes advanced cleaning methods, specialized equipment, and odor removal technologies that leave your property restored and odor-free.

Understanding Smoke Damage:

Smoke damage extends beyond what meets the eye. SERVPRO's experts understand the intricacies of smoke behavior, allowing them to identify hidden damage and implement targeted remediation strategies.

The Importance of Professional Assistance:

Attempting to handle fire damage without professional assistance can exacerbate the situation. Smoke particles and soot can penetrate surfaces and materials, causing long-term damage if not addressed correctly. SERVPRO's experience and expertise in fire damage restoration ensure that every aspect of the damage is thoroughly addressed, preventing further complications down the line.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna’s proven track record as a reliable partner in fire and smoke damage restoration makes them the go-to choice for homeowners facing the challenges of winter-related incidents. With a commitment to a rapid response, advanced technology, and comprehensive services, SERVPRO is ready to restore your property to its pre-fire condition, providing peace of mind during the challenging winter months. Call us today at 507-200-3700.

SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

24/7 Emergency Commercial Water Damage Services

12/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Restores and Protects Commercial Space from Flood damage.

When it comes to commercial water damage, the choice of a restoration partner is pivotal. SERVPRO's® commercial water damage services offer a seamless blend of cutting-edge equipment, certified IICRC expertise, and rapid response capabilities. Trust SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to safeguard your business from the detrimental effects of water damage, providing a swift and effective path to restoration and business continuity.

At SERVPRO we understand the urgency of commercial water damage situations, and SERVPRO is committed to a rapid response model to minimize any downtime to your business.

 Our 1:4:8 response strategy signifies our promise to:

• 1 Hour: We respond to your call within one hour to assess the situation.
• 4 Hours: Our team is on-site within four hours, ready to begin mitigation and prevent further damage.
• 8 Hours: We provide a preliminary scope and communicate the plan with you and your insurance adjuster within eight hours.

This prompt response is instrumental in preventing secondary damage, such as mold growth, and helps businesses resume operations at the earliest. SERVPRO’s dedication to minimizing the disruption to your business and getting your business back up and running after a water damage event is what we do best. You can count on SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to help you whenever you experience water damage in your commercial space, big or small. SERVPRO has you covered 24/7.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is prepared and ready to take your call at 507-200-3700 any time you experience a water damage emergency in your business space. We are always Here to Help. ®

SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO to the RESCUE

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

Is there a mold infestation hiding in your home or business?

When faced with a mold invasion, swift and professional action is essential. This is where SERVPRO®, a leading restoration company, steps in. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is known for its expertise in mold remediation and restoration, offering a comprehensive approach to tackle mold issues and restore homes to their pre-mold condition.

SERVPRO’s Restoration Facts:

Rapid Response: SERVPRO understands the urgency of mold remediation. Our company operates 24/7, ensuring a rapid response to restoration emergencies. Mold can weaken the structure of a building, causing damage that may be both costly and hazardous, but choosing SERVPRO as your quick responder to a mold discovery can prevent further damage to your property.

Advanced Technology: SERVPRO employs cutting-edge technology to detect, isolate, and eliminate mold. This includes advanced moisture detection tools, air scrubbers, and industrial-grade dehumidifiers to create an environment inhospitable for mold growth.

Trained and Certified Professionals: The SERVPRO team comprises certified technicians with extensive training in mold remediation. Trained by the accredited (IICRC) Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, our expertise ensures that the restoration process is carried out efficiently and effectively.

SERVPRO doesn't just remove mold; they provide comprehensive restoration services tailored to your specific mold-infested situation.

Mold may be a silent intruder, but with SERVPRO on the job, it doesn't stand a chance. Understanding the dangers of mold and recognizing the importance of prompt and professional restoration is crucial for maintaining a healthy home or business. So, the next time mold threatens to compromise your Amboy or surrounding area living space, remember that SERVPRO is ready to come to the rescue, armed with expertise, advanced technology, and a commitment to restoring your home to its pristine condition.

SERVPRO is your partner in mold restoration and we can be reached at 507-200-3700 for prompt and efficient mold mitigation and restoration. We are always Here to Help®.

SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Another Satisfied Customer

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO strives for Customer Satisfaction!

SERVPRO® understands the worry and concern many homeowners and business property owners face when discovering a mold outbreak or infestation. Our technicians are trained by the (IICRC) Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification and have seen a vast amount of different and unique mold situations. Our years of experience and advanced tools and techniques offer peace of mind to the communities we serve.

Our technicians, sometimes specifically called by name, are why many choose SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna. Here is a recent review outlining the incredible work our certified technicians provide to keep our community safe from mold infestations.

Kyle was awesome. Mold removal is never fun and he made it as quick and painless as it can possibly be while still explaining everything really well. Even dealt with the surprise of a dead mystery animal in the wall. Communicative. Professional. Left it clean with no mess for me to deal with. Highly recommend.

Lori J

SERVPRO is your trusted partner in mold remediation. We are here for you and ready to help tackle any size mold infestation. Our team will provide a comprehensive plan to tackle your mold concerns (Big or small) because we’ve seen and restored it all. For prompt, efficient, and successful mold remediation, call our offices today at 507-200-3700.

SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Thanksgiving Fire Prevention Tips and SERVPRO's® 24/7 Restoration Expertise

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

A Feast Without Flames

Thanksgiving, a time for gratitude and gathering, often involves a festive feast. However, the joy of the holiday can quickly turn to sorrow if fire safety precautions are overlooked. In this blog, we'll explore essential fire prevention tips for a safe and happy Thanksgiving celebration, along with the assurance that SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna professional fire damage restoration services are available around the clock.

Fire Prevention Tips for Thanksgiving:

Mind the Kitchen: Never leave the stove or oven unattended, especially when cooking multiple dishes.

Keep flammable items like kitchen towels and oven mitts away from open flames and hot surfaces.

Check Smoke Alarms: Test smoke alarms before the festivities begin to ensure they are in working order.

Replace batteries in smoke alarms if needed and have a fire extinguisher readily available in the kitchen.

Keep a Clear Space: Maintain a clear area around the cooking area to prevent any accidental tripping or knocking over of items onto the stove.

Candle Caution: Consider using flameless candles as a safer alternative to traditional candles.

If using real candles, keep them away from flammable decorations and place them in sturdy, tip-resistant holders.

Outdoor Cooking Safety: If deep-frying a turkey, do so outdoors and away from structures.

Ensure the turkey is completely thawed and dried to avoid oil splatters.

SERVPRO's 24/7 Restoration Expertise

Accidents happen, even with the best precautions. In the unfortunate event of a fire, SERVPRO is Here to Help with 24/7 professional fire damage restoration services. Our trained technicians employ advanced techniques to assess and address fire damage promptly.

SERVPRO understands that emergencies don't wait for business hours. Our 24/7 availability ensures a swift response to mitigate further damage. Trained professionals conduct a thorough assessment of fire damage, identifying both visible and hidden issues. SERVPRO employs state-of-the-art restoration techniques to clean, deodorize, and restore your property to its pre-fire condition.

This Thanksgiving, prioritize fire safety to safeguard your festivities. Follow these prevention tips to minimize the risk of fires during the holiday season. However, should the unexpected occur, remember that SERVPRO's 24/7 availability and professional fire damage restoration techniques are just a phone call away at (507)-200-3700. With a commitment to swift, thorough, and expert restoration, SERVPRO is your trusted partner in the aftermath of a fire, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – a joyful and safe Thanksgiving celebration.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Fire Prevention Safety tips for this Halloween

10/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Responds to Fire damage Restoration 24/7

Fire prevention during Halloween in Minnesota is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone. SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna wants you and your family to stay safe this Halloween. Here are some safety tips to minimize any fire risks during this festive season:

Choose Flameless Decorations: Opt for flameless candles or LED lights in your Halloween decorations instead of traditional candles. They provide a realistic flickering effect without the fire hazard.

Costume Safety: When selecting or making costumes, use flame-resistant materials. Ensure that costumes, especially those for children, are not too long, as they can pose a tripping hazard near open flames.

Jack-o'-Lantern Safety: If you carve pumpkins, use battery-operated lights or glow sticks inside them instead of candles. If you prefer real candles, keep them well away from flammable materials and place the pumpkin on a sturdy surface.

Clear Pathways: Ensure clear and well-lit pathways for trick-or-treaters. Remove any obstacles or potential trip hazards to prevent accidents, including fires from knocked-over candles.

Decorative Lights: If you use decorative lights outdoors, make sure they are designed for outdoor use and are in good condition. Don't overload electrical outlets and turn off lights when you're not home or when you go to bed.

Safe Bonfires: If you plan a bonfire as part of your Halloween celebration, follow local regulations and safety guidelines. Keep a safe distance from structures, trees, and flammable materials.

Fire Extinguishers: Have fire extinguishers readily available and know how to use them. Ensure that your smoke detectors are working correctly and have fresh batteries.

Supervise Children: Always supervise children when they are around open flames or candles. Teach them about fire safety and the potential dangers of playing with fire.

Pet Safety: Keep pets away from Halloween decorations and open flames to prevent accidents and injuries.

We hope everyone enjoys the Halloween festivities this year by keeping these safety tips in mind. SERVPRO specializes in fire damage restoration, and we are always Here to Help® Call us at 507-200-3700 if you require any Water or Fire/Smoke damage restorations services.

Happy Halloween from our SERVPRO team.

SERVPRO® Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fall Maintenance tips to reduce property damage during Minnesota storms.

10/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna specializes in storm damage restoration services..

As the vibrant autumn leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, homeowners in Mankato and surrounding cities in Minnesota should turn their attention to the essential task of winterizing their homes. Preparing your home for the harsh winter months is crucial for maintaining comfort, energy efficiency, and preventing potential damage. Here are some important tips to consider when winterizing your Mankato and surrounding cities home this fall.

Sealing Drafts: Begin by inspecting windows and doors for drafts. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps or cracks that allow cold air to infiltrate your home. This will not only keep your interior warmer but also reduce heating costs.

Insulation: Ensure that your home is adequately insulated. Check the insulation in your attic, walls, and basement. Adding or replacing insulation can significantly improve energy efficiency and comfort.

HVAC Maintenance: Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system. Change air filters, clean ducts, and make any necessary repairs to ensure your HVAC system is running efficiently throughout the winter.

Gutters and Downspouts: Clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water damage. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the buildup of debris.

Exterior Maintenance: Trim overhanging tree branches that could potentially damage your home during winter storms. Ensure that your roof is in good condition and repair any loose shingles.

Pipe Protection: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and potential bursts. Also, shut off outdoor water sources and drain hoses to prevent damage.

Chimney and Fireplace: Have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional to ensure safe and efficient use during the winter months.

Emergency Supplies: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food items. Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector and smoke detectors.

By taking these proactive steps to winterize your Mankato home, you can enjoy a cozier, more energy-efficient winter while protecting your property from potential cold-weather damage. Don't wait until the first snowfall; start your preparations this fall to ensure a warm and worry-free winter season.

SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna specializes in storm damage restoration services in your area and can be on site to help make the storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today for reliable and professional emergency restoration services at 507-200-3700

SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated.

Local SERVPRO Flood Response Team Is Available 24/7

8/11/2023 (Permalink)

We Restore Residential and Commercial Water Damage 24/7

When storms threaten your home or commercial property, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to help you with storm-related disasters. Our team of experienced restoration technicians are no stranger to storm damage, extreme flooding, or any type of secondary damage, better known as microbial growth. We have the training to combat biohazard clean up and any specialty cleaning services including our SERVPRO Certified Clean program, the protocol cleaning program required to eliminate dangerous pathogens such as the Covid 19 and Coronavirus.

Once we’ve conducted a thorough inspection of your storm damage, we will always address the safety concerns first, build a restoration plan unique to your situation and contact your insurance adjuster, monitor and document the progress and communicate with your insurance company, giving you peace of mind and less paperwork to worry about.

A typical water damage process:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and damage assessments
3. Water extraction
4. Drying and Dehumidification
5. Cleaning
6. Restoration

Every water damage situation is different and unique. We will explain the entire process to you every step of the way. Our team is dedicated to helping you recover from all storm-related water damage restoration services.

Flooding from storms can happen any time, day or night, which is why we are available for you 24/7.

For fast, reliable emergency restoration services with experienced and accredited technicians, call our offices any time at (507)-200-3700. We are always Here to Help® our community recover from storms.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Residential Flooring Saved from Water Damage

8/11/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Rescues another Hardwood Floor with Advanced Techniques and Equipment

The local SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna team provides 24/7 emergency water damage restoration services. Our technicians are certified by the non-profit Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) organization trusted by all insurance companies which means when you call our offices, you can expect professional-knowledgeable restoration technicians to restore your property back to normal humidity levels and back to the comfort you enjoy each day.

Your home is one of the largest investments you make in life, and you can trust our local certified technicians to restore your water damage emergency, no matter how big or small the damage is. We have the most advanced drying techniques, Powerful Truck Mounted Equipment that can extract the largest amounts of water, and industrial-sized equipment to bring your home back to its comfort.

Dried-in-place methods are the latest advanced drying technique that allows our technicians to thoroughly dry water-damaged property significantly faster and saves the property owner time, money and avoids unnecessary floor replacements. Insurance companies like how SERVPRO utilizes these types of drying techniques because we can not only save the insurance company money but also save the policy owner’s treasured floors and time, further limiting the disruption water damage can have on you and or your family's time.

Rescue Mat System

A Rescue Mat System is applied directly to the water-damaged area, forcing the evaporation out of the flooring. This technique and equipment ensure floors can be thoroughly dried, preventing unnecessary floor replacement or damage to trim and baseboards.

If you experience any type of flooding to your home whether due to a broken pipe, toilet overflow, or an appliance malfunction, call us at (507)-200-3700 for fast water damage restoration services. Our technicians are always Here to Help®.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

24/7 Emergency Services for Your Commercial Business

8/11/2023 (Permalink)

Professional Commercial Emergency Restoration Services are Available 24/7

When water damage threatens your business or commercial property, trust the experts at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to help.

Our team of experienced restoration technicians are no stranger to storm damage, extreme flooding, or any type of secondary damage, better known as microbial growth. We have the training and experience to combat biohazard cleanup and specialty cleaning services including our SERVPRO Certified Cleaned Program, the protocol cleaning program required to eliminate dangerous pathogens such as the Covid 19 and Coronavirus.

The Restoration Experts You Can Depend On.

We understand running a business can take up a large amount of your time and energy. That's why you can count on the crews at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to help you get your business operational again as quickly and efficiently as possible.

From large to small jobs, our highly trained technicians are dedicated to providing commercial cleaning and restoration services. Count on us for:

• Commercial Cleaning and Specialty Cleaning for your Business
• Commercial Property Damage Restoration
• Commercial Large Loss
• Advanced Water Inspection, Extraction, and Drying Equipment
• Easier Insurance Claim Process
• Faster to any size disaster™
• 24/7 Emergency Services

If your business experiences any damage requiring professional restoration services, call us as soon as it is safe to do so at (507)-200-3700. We can help make disasters “Like it never even happened” and provide you and your customers peace of mind knowing your facility and business property has been professionally cleaned and thoroughly free of contaminants, water intrusion, or mold infestations.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO Technicians Hard at Work for You

8/11/2023 (Permalink)

Technicians are performing restoration work.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for Emergency Water Damage Restoration?

Our technicians are certified, attend regular training and continued education on the most up-to-date best practices, guidelines, and regulations in all restoration services we provide. Equipped with experienced knowledge, expertise, advanced moisture-detecting tools, and powerful industrial drying equipment, our technicians will take care of your damage as if it were their own.

• Advanced moisture-detecting tools to find hidden water damage.
• Powerful water extraction equipment to remove any size amount of water from your property. 
• Industrial-sized dehumidifiers to properly remove the excess moisture inside ceilings, walls, and flooring.
• Powerful air movers and fans dry the structure to normal humidity levels. 
• Highest certified education/training, and always on top of new and advanced restoration techniques and best practices.
• We monitor and document all services for you and your insurance company.
• Embrace the Restore vs Replace approach to save you money, keep your cherished belongings, and bring stress-free Insurance claim services.
• Our office wizards will help you with all the insurance paperwork.

When your Mankato/Owatonna area home or business has water damage due to a burst pipe, or if an appliance failure floods your kitchen or your home suffers damage from a recent storm, our skilled team members can assist in mitigating your damage and restoring your home or business “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is always Here to Help® and we’ll deliver exceptional restoration services 24/7.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has your back.

When faced with disasters, SERVPRO will be the best call you make, guaranteed. For Fast Emergency Water or Fire Damage Restoration, Mold Mitigation, or Specialized Cleaning Services, Call us at # (507)-200-3700.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Kitchen fires are the leading cause of fire damage claims in the United States

2/23/2023 (Permalink)

Fire Damage in a Minnesota Home

We’re only human, and we can all make mistakes. Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fires in the United States.

Our SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna have been restoring fire and smoke damage in homes and commercial buildings for years. We take everything into consideration when assisting with a fire loss.

The source of how the fire was started, what was burned, and how far the soot and smoke have traveled. We understand how devastating a fire can be. That's why we take the best precaution, care, and consideration for your home's belongings. 

Our Restoration Technicians are trained to restore first vs replace when it comes to fire damage restoration services. Our team is certified by the Institute of Inspection and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We use the following methods/equipment to complete the restoration needed for each and every unique fire damage situation:

• HEPA Air Scrubbers
• Air Duct Cleaning and Sanitizing
• Ozone Generators
• Thermal Fogging
• Vaper modifications
• Hydroxyl Generator
• Specific Cleaning Solutions designed to remove smoke and soot particles from all kinds of material.

Our team at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna are certified, experienced, and super talented at making fire damage disasters turn into a slogan we live by, “Like it never even happened.”

If you've endured a fire in your home or business, trust the experts an call us as soon as it is safe to do so at at (507)-200-3700

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO is your trusted restoration provider for all mold, and microbial growth issues

2/23/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians always win at the game that mold often likes to play, -Hide-and-Seek

With sensational news stories and misleading advertising, you can easily understand why so many people are misinformed about indoor mold. Mold, microbial growth, and mildew -they all sound scary, however, some molds are not a bad thing. Take Penicillium, for instance, which is used in the production of some types of cheese. Did you also know mold is everywhere in the atmosphere? Our technicians know a thing or two, actually, we know a thousand things about mold because we have been in the classes, receive continuously updated training and certifications, and because we’ve assisted so many customers with mold remediation throughout the years.

Mold testing

We have the skills, tools, and incredible equipment to detect, find and eliminate mold and our technicians always win at the game that mold often likes to play, -Hide-and-Seek. While using our techy-testing equipment, we can capture which types of mold are in your environment and create the most effective and safe plan of action for the remediation of mold in your property.

Mold containment

When needed, our technicians use different types of containment procedures to prevent the spread of mold and keep it contained in the area that’s affected. We may use negative air chambers to isolate the contained area with physical barriers. I know, it sounds complex, but our technicians will explain this on-site so you can understand why we take such measures in helping our customers feel safe in the environment they’re in.

Air Filtration

Our technicians will use powerful-industrial grade air scrubbers and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of mold spores. These air filtration machines capture the microscopic mold spores out of the air. They are, "beasts of machines," and we enjoy having this top-of-the-line industrial equipment.

Air Duct Cleaning and Sanitizing

Whenever microbial growth is present in a home or a business, we always suggest getting the air ducts thoroughly cleaned to prevent any mold spores from spreading and creating another problem in other areas of your home or commercial property.

The actions listed above are just some of the services we can provide when you’re faced with a microbial growth issue. Yes, there is more! Call us today if you suspect mold, microbial growth, or any amount of excess moisture. We are Here to Help. You can reach us 24/7/52 @ 507-200-3700

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

24/7/52 Services that are always available for you

2/23/2023 (Permalink)

Count on SERVPRO to have your back, even while on vacation!

Our teams are available 24/7/52 for you!

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna has the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property after floods, leaks, and more. With our experience and scientific approach to water removal and water damage cleanup, we can dry and restore your home or business after any size disaster. Not only are we Certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) but we have loads of experience and stellar skills and tools to get the job done right.

            “We were on vacation and had our neighbor routinely check on our home and a pipe had burst in our basement. She felt so bad this happened on her watch. She had no idea how to clean it up or what to do. I asked our neighbor to remain calm, take a few breaths of air, and then turn our water main off. With bad cell phone reception in a different country, I remembered I had a magnet on my fridge given to me by technicians at the Steele County fair in Owatonna and asked her to call them. I was so glad I kept that magnet because it literally saved my home from so much damage. They helped dry my house, fix the issues, called the plumber for me, and kept me informed on every step of the process through emails. They even helped with insurance paperwork, the communications with my agent and adjuster. I was so relieved for all their help and won’t hesitate to call them again should I need to.”

Water damage happens at all times of the year, day or night which is why our Mankato/Owatonna professionals are on call 24/7/52. If you experience the above scenario, don’t hesitate to call us for emergency water/flood damage restoration services at 507-200-3700.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

WEATHER doesn’t always COOPERATE with our EXPECTATIONS.

2/23/2023 (Permalink)

Another Win for SERVPRO vs Winter Snow Storms

Weather doesn’t always cooperate with our expectations. Storm damage happens at all times of the year in Blue Earth and Steele counties. Mankato/Owatonna technicians combat all storm-related water damage.

Here’s the truth… Water and storm damage causes significant damage the longer it sits in your home or business which is why it is so important you call a professional restoration company like SERVPRO right away. The sooner you call us, the sooner our technicians can prevent secondary damage such as microbial growth (mold) from happening which in turn, saves you and your insurance company $ money $. 

All seasons, all year round (365), 24 hours a day, we're available and Here to Help make water damage “Like it never even happened.” We service everyone who needs help with water damage restorations services:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office Buildings
• Non-profit buildings
• High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• Any Size Residential home
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military
• And more…

If a county-wide storm disaster hit the Mankato or Owatonna area, we can help everyone. When choosing SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna you don’t just get our independently owned and operated franchise, you also get our incredibly large resources. We can call upon the strategically placed SERVPRO disaster teams throughout the United States and Canada and ensure everyone is helped. Choosing a professional restoration company like Mankato/Owatonna is the right call to make. Call us at 507-200-3700

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Trained and Certifiably ready to handle any size MESS you may experience.

2/23/2023 (Permalink)

Rely on SERVPRO to take care of all the imaginable and unimaginable messes!

CLEANING BLOG

SERVPRO is the number 1 rated professional restoration and clean-up company in the Mankato, Waseca and Owatonna areas. The cornerstone of our business is not just limited to water and fire damage restoration.

Ever wonder who cleans up the mess after a crime scene? Ever wonder how or when that graffiti was removed from a storefront? Yes, that’s us. For years SERVPRO has been cleaning up the area you live! Listed below, you can see for yourself, all of expertise services we provide that is not limited to:

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Odor removal
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup
• Meth lab cleanup
• Pathogen cleaning like (Covid19)
• SERVPRO Certified Clean programs
• And more…

At SERVPRO, our technicians are trained and certified to professionally clean any mess you can imagine. Our training has produced proven results in all the services we perform. We are Here to Help you, your family, and your business with all Fire & Water damage Clean-up and Restoration needed in your Mankato/Owatonna rea home and business. We’re always available to take your call 24/7/52 at 507-200-3700.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Commercial restoration available for all businesses

2/23/2023 (Permalink)

All commercial properties can suffer water damage. Thankfully, SERVPRO is Here to Help

When fire and water damage threatens your business, we are Here to Help you take it back.

If you experience a flood at your business it is crucial you call us immediately. The longer the damage sits in your commercial building, the increased chances of lost revenue begins to threaten your business. When you call our offices, our friendly staff will ask you several questions, alert our crews and assemble all we need to help you and save your business from having to permanently close your doors. We really do live by the slogans on our bright green trucks. We are “Faster to any size disaster” because we understand how fast water and fire damage can spread into secondary damage.

When our professionals arrive on site, we inspect and assess the damages and get right to work. You may see technicians heading in several different directions with the speed of lighting and you may want to help too. That’s okay with us, as long as it is safe to do so. We understand when faced with a tragic event of water or fire damage, it can be devastating. After all, this is your business, and sometimes people refer to their business as their baby, their livelihood, their life.

We understand the stress and chaos you may feel when faced with these disasters. So, sometimes we may need to do the following best practices to ensure the best restoration outcome:

• Pack outs- this is required when we know we can save particular items that are important to your business, but they also require to be stored in a secured temporary location.
• Set up containment areas -To protect your business from further damage
• Remove hazards that could be harmful to you or your employees.
• Mitigate any damage caused by the incident.
• Bring in specialized equipment to start the restoration process

We will keep you informed on every step of the process, communicate with your insurance company, and provide all documentation needed. We will treat your business, its contents, and employees with the same care and consideration as our own business.

If your business is affected at an extreme level, we’ll help with an offsite location. For instance, just because your business has suffered a major water loss, doesn’t mean we can’t find a way to provide a pop-up sale with tents, banners, and the help of social media marketing a special event. Our team is dedicated to helping our community in any way we can.

SERVPRO has your back 24/7/52. If your business experiences damage from a storm, a water loss, or fire/smoke damage, call us at 507-200-3700.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Commercial restoration available for all businesses

2/23/2023 (Permalink)

All commercial properties can suffer water damage. Thankfully, SERVPRO is Here to Help

When fire and water damage threatens your business, we are Here to Help you take it back.

If you experience a flood at your business it is crucial you call us immediately. The longer the damage sits in your commercial building, the increased chances of lost revenue begins to threaten your business. When you call our offices, our friendly staff will ask you several questions, alert our crews and assemble all we need to help you and save your business from having to permanently close your doors. We really do live by the slogans on our bright green trucks. We are “Faster to any size disaster” because we understand how fast water and fire damage can spread into secondary damage.

When our professionals arrive on site, we inspect and assess the damages and get right to work. You may see technicians heading in several different directions with the speed of lighting and you may want to help too. That’s okay with us, as long as it is safe to do so. We understand when faced with a tragic event of water or fire damage, it can be devastating. After all, this is your business, and sometimes people refer to their business as their baby, their livelihood, their life.

We understand the stress and chaos you may feel when faced with these disasters. So, sometimes we may need to do the following best practices to ensure the best restoration outcome:

• Pack outs- this is required when we know we can save particular items that are important to your business, but they also require to be stored in a secured temporary location.
• Set up containment areas -To protect your business from further damage
• Remove hazards that could be harmful to you or your employees.
• Mitigate any damage caused by the incident.
• Bring in specialized equipment to start the restoration process

We will keep you informed on every step of the process, communicate with your insurance company, and provide all documentation needed. We will treat your business, its contents, and employees with the same care and consideration as our own business.

If your business is affected at an extreme level, we’ll help with an offsite location. For instance, just because your business has suffered a major water loss, doesn’t mean we can’t find a way to provide a pop-up sale with tents, banners, and the help of social media marketing a special event. Our team is dedicated to helping our community in any way we can.

SERVPRO has your back 24/7/52. If your business experiences damage from a storm, a water loss, or fire/smoke damage, call us at 507-200-3700.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Mankato/Owatonna Areas

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has been providing restoration services for families and businesses for years. We believe it is our job to ensure our community doesn’t have to face water or fire damage emergencies alone.

If a pipe bursts inside your home, it can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs. Calling SERVPRO can reduce those costs and prevent secondary damage from occurring.  

•   It is always a good idea to leave the kitchen cabinet and vanity doors open where pipes are located 
•   Making sure your thermostat is set to a minimum of 55 degrees will help prevent frozen pipes from freezing
• Drip water from faucet to prevent the freeze
• Insulate pipes in unheated areas

When frozen pipes burst, the damage is not limited to just the plumbing. Drywall, ceilings, floors, and the contents of your home also suffer significant damage. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help ®

LET’S FACE IT

Water is a force of nature; therefore, it is heavy and will do extensive damage spreading throughout your home. It is important that you call us right away so we can prevent further damage from happening, save as much of your property and contents as possible, and keep costs down.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is available 24/7/52. If you suspect a pipe has burst, call us immediately. If a blizzard forces a large tree into your roof, call us now. If you see water stains on your ceiling, still call us.

We work directly with your insurance company (handling the paperwork and communications), and keep you updated on all steps of the restoration process to ensure a stress-free restoration from start to finish.

Because SERVPRO is no stranger to water damage restoration: we are HERE to HELP ® make the disaster “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 507-200-3700 for fast, reliable, and friendly restoration services.  

Franchises are independently owned and operated

SERVPRO wants everyone to stay safe this holiday season

12/19/2022 (Permalink)

Holiday safety tips are essential in preventing home fire damage

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna wants everyone to be safe this holiday season. We understand accidents can happen and we have also witnessed many home fires that could have been preventable.

• Fresh trees require additional safety precautions
• Always place your tree away from any heat sources
• Ensure all lighting equipment used is safe, up to code and be sure to plug into GFCI circuit protector
• We remember all the emergency service calls we have received over the years, and we could provide thousands of examples but it’s much easier to take the necessary precautions to prevent fires from happening at all.
• Don't forget to water the tree. Making a reminder on you phone can help prevent your tree from getting dry. 
• Unplug your tree lights when not home or while your unable to supervise. Animals are curious

Download the Winter Holiday Safety tip sheet from the National Fire Protection Association here to keep you and your family (pets included) safe this Holiday season. To keep children busy while reading this important life-saving literature you can print out these coloring pages also provided by the NFPA here.

Emergencies happen. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help make fire damage "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 507-200-3700 for fast, reliable, experienced water and fire damage restoration services.

Franchises are independently owned and operated

Mold tends to hide wherever it can

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

Mold hides behind a bathroom mirror causing significant damage

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna and our crews have been remediating/mitigating mold for many years and we have the advanced experience, equipment, technology, and certified skills to attack any mold of any concern. Most people tend to scare easily at just the word "Mold" however, mold is present everywhere, even in outer space. Of course, the mold was in a space station, but it just goes to prove, it is everywhere.

Mold fact: 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 is everywhere. Mold requires water, food, and oxygen to grow. It also requires an environment with a temperature it can survive. While mold cannot spread without these conditions, its spores may survive in a dormant state.

The culprit(s). Excess moisture or a leak is usually the culprit behind mold colonies. In many cases, humidity is the key factor in the spread of mold. If your humidity level is above 45% you should think about running a dehumidifier.

Detecting mold. Proper advanced tools are sometimes needed to locate mold. It's one thing to visibly see the mold, but that's not always the case. if you have allergies that act up in certain areas of your home or commercial building, now is the perfect time to call for a professional inspection. 

Rest assured because SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help you with our advanced technology, industrial-grade equipment, advanced testing, and superbly-trained-certified and caring technicians. 

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Learn more about our mold remediation process.

• Emergency Contact - (507) 200-3700 Calling us is always the first step ;)
• Inspection of Mold Damage. A free-no cost assessment of your unique situation
• Mold Containment-Preparing to prevent further mold spores to travel and create further damage
• Air Filtration-advanced industrial-grade equipment are used to prevent further travel and catch as many of the mold spores making the areas breathable again.
• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials-removing mold is necessary, and certain types of materials and surfaces must be cleaned accordingly. 
• Cleaning Contents and Belongings-all surfaces and contents must be addressed differently and once we've established what type of mold you could possibly have; a plan of action is put into place. 

If you suspect any mold or a musty smell in your home or office, do not hesitate to call us at 507-200-3700 for a free inspection. We will arrive quickly and prepared to help in every way possible. Our number one goal is helping to make any property damage, whether from mold, water/fire, or storm damage a thing of the past. 

Fires can cause significant damage

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

A technician is on site at a fire loss

Christmas is just around the corner. So close we can almost taste the holiday meal, feel the wonderful presence of our family members and see the lights and snowflakes falling outside the windows. But did you know the holiday seasons are also peak times for emergency calls for fire damage? 

Once the first responders extinguish the fire, your home will be left with smoke, soot, and other fire hazards. Your air ducts may be filled with corrosive elements making the air you breathe unhealthily. There are many steps to fire damage restoration and it's important that you hire a professional company to help with the aftermath of a fire, such as SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna. Although every fire is unique in itself, so is the restoration process. To give you an idea of what it looks like when you call a highly skilled company to help is below:

The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” fire damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The fire restoration process begins when you call us. Our friendly office staff will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the type of fire damage you experienced, and determine the equipment and resources needed.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

We carefully inspect and test adjoining rooms of your property to determine the extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step is crucial to developing a plan of action.

Step 3: Immediately Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)

Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs. To maintain security and to protect against further damage, we can board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if fire fighting efforts were involved)

If needed, we can begin the water removal process with powerful pumps and extraction units. This removes most of the water. We complete the water removal and drying process with industrial-strength dehumidifiers and air movers. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces. 

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean and sanitize the restorable items and structures damaged by the fire. Our professionals use a variety of cleaning techniques to restore your belongings to pre-fire condition. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

Restoration is the final step—getting your home or business to its pre-fire condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet; or it may entail major repairs such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

If you require professional fire/water damage restoration services, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is just a call away @ 507-200-3700. We will respond quickly and make the damage "Like it never even happened." We are Here to Help you and our community 24 hours, 365 days a year.

Fires are more frequent during the holidays

11/18/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fires are the most frightful but common fires that happen.

A cozy holiday season may look a lot like the crackling of logs in a fireplace, a scented candle to fill your home with a comforting aroma, a flicker or glow of Christmas lights in the room, and a tasty meal cooking away in the kitchen but, did you know, all of these things can be a risk for fires? That said, unfortunately, the holiday seasons are usually the highest season for fires, usually caused by decorative faulty wiring (Christmas lights), distracted cooking in the kitchen, and sometimes a fire can be the result of a "not so good" candle placement or a curious family pet.

The top 10 safety tips below may help keep you, your loved ones and home safer this holiday. 

• Install alarms on every level of your home, inside each sleeping area. You can never have enough smoke alarms!
• Plan your escape route. Make sure your family has a plan in place and practices it.
• Keep an eye on smokers and provide a designated area outside with an option to soak cigarette butts in water. 
• Cook carefully. Distracted cooking is the leading cause of fires during the holiday season.
• Ensure all decorative lighting is in good working order and complies with electrical codes.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children.
• Give space heaters space-always ensure the space heater is not located near drapes or anything that could catch fire.
• Use all electricity safely-replace cracked or frayed cords, don't overload extension cords.

We hope no one experiences a fire this holiday season, but if you do, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help. If you do experience a fire that requires a 911 call, it's important to know that your property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts.

Please call us immediately if you experience a fire, small or large; we are always just a call away at 507-200-3700

Your mold restoration professionals are just a call away

11/18/2022 (Permalink)

This commercial property suffered a large mold loss

The professionals at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna have become the #1 trusted leaders in mold damage mitigation and remediation services in Blue Earth, Steele, and Waseca counties and we are always Here to Help the community in every way possible. Our technicians have undergone extensive training and certifications to tackle any size mold damage. The IICRC (Institute for Inspection Cleaning and Restoration) is just one of the few incredibly accredited certifications our technicians hold.  

No one likes mold. Mold can be a microscopic horror to some, but did you know, mold is always present in the earth's atmosphere? Yep, sure is! Therefore, mold can never be 100% eradicated and SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna urges you to seek caution if any company tells you otherwise.

Our techs at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna are never afraid of mold, actually, many of our techs find the challenge rewarding (thoroughly enjoying the satisfaction of restoration and providing another healthy home or office building.)

Please read on to learn about the real facts about microscopic growth (mold). 

Mold Facts and Myths:  

• There is always, sadly, a little mold everywhere.
• Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, and pets can carry it indoors.
• Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners to combat mold. Mixing bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products will produce dangerous, toxic fumes.
• Mold is often the result of excess water damage and SERVPRO professionals have the advanced equipment to locate microbial growth. 
• Not all molds are dangerous to our health. Some types of molds are actually used in medicines and in our food (such as specific cheese).
• Preventative actions do reduce the possibility of mold outbreaks. Preventative action can be done by controlling the humidity in your home, proper ventilation inspections, and inspecting for any small leaks regularly. 

Above all, DO NOT disturb any mold growth. Call us to inspect immediately @ 507-200-3700

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna does not charge for mold inspections. Just call us and we'll provide you with peace of mind knowing we've been able to combat every mold scenario we've encountered. Our technicians have outstanding experience, certifications, and training to attack any mold situation. Please refer to these tips and call us immediately at if you see any signs of mold or suspect a musty smell in your home or business. 

Your mold restoration professionals are just a call away

11/18/2022 (Permalink)

This commercial property suffered a large mold loss

The professionals at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna have become the #1 trusted leaders in mold damage mitigation and remediation services in Blue Earth, Steele, and Waseca counties and we are always Here to Help the community in every way possible. Our technicians have undergone extensive training and certifications to tackle any size mold damage. The IICRC (Institute for Inspection Cleaning and Restoration) is just one of the few incredibly accredited certifications our technicians hold.  

No one likes mold. Mold can be a microscopic horror to some, but did you know, mold is always present in the earth's atmosphere? Yep, sure is! Therefore, mold can never be 100% eradicated and SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna urges you to seek caution if any company tells you otherwise.

Our techs at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna are never afraid of mold, actually, many of our techs find the challenge rewarding (thoroughly enjoying the satisfaction of restoration and providing another healthy home or office building.)

Please read on to learn about the real facts about microscopic growth (mold). 

Mold Facts and Myths:  

• There is always, sadly, a little mold everywhere.
• Mold is found both indoors and outdoors. Mold can enter your home through open doorways, windows, vents, and heating and air conditioning systems. Mold in the air outside can also attach itself to clothing, shoes, and pets can carry it indoors.
• Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners to combat mold. Mixing bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products will produce dangerous, toxic fumes.
• Mold is often the result of excess water damage and SERVPRO professionals have the advanced equipment to locate microbial growth. 
• Not all molds are dangerous to our health. Some types of molds are actually used in medicines and in our food (such as specific cheese).
• Preventative actions do reduce the possibility of mold outbreaks. Preventative action can be done by controlling the humidity in your home, proper ventilation inspections, and inspecting for any small leaks regularly. 

Above all, DO NOT disturb any mold growth. Call us to inspect immediately @ 507-200-3700

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna does not charge for mold inspections. Just call us and we'll provide you with peace of mind knowing we've been able to combat every mold scenario we've encountered. Our technicians have outstanding experience, certifications, and training to attack any mold situation. Please refer to these tips and call us immediately at if you see any signs of mold or suspect a musty smell in your home or business. 

Mold tends to hide wherever it can

11/18/2022 (Permalink)

Mold hides behind a bathroom mirror causing significant damage

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna and our crews have been remediating/mitigating mold for many years and we have the advanced experience, equipment, technology, and certified skills to attack any mold of any concern. Most people tend to scare easily at just the word "Mold" however, mold is present everywhere, even in outer space. Of course, the mold was in a space station, but it just goes to prove, it is everywhere.

Mold fact: 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 is everywhere. Mold requires water, food, and oxygen to grow. It also requires an environment with a temperature it can survive. While mold cannot spread without these conditions, its spores may survive in a dormant state.

The culprit(s). Excess moisture or a leak is usually the culprit behind mold colonies. In many cases, humidity is the key factor in the spread of mold. If your humidity level is above 45% you should think about running a dehumidifier.

Detecting mold. Proper advanced tools are sometimes needed to locate mold. It's one thing to visibly see the mold, but that's not always the case. if you have allergies that act up in certain areas of your home or commercial building, now is the perfect time to call for a professional inspection. 

Rest assured because SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help you with our advanced technology, industrial-grade equipment, advanced testing, and superbly-trained-certified and caring technicians. 

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. Learn more about our mold remediation process.

• Emergency Contact - (507) 200-3700 Calling us is always the first step ;)
• Inspection of Mold Damage. A free-no cost assessment of your unique situation
• Mold Containment-Preparing to prevent further mold spores to travel and create further damage
• Air Filtration-advanced industrial-grade equipment are used to prevent further travel and catch as many of the mold spores making the areas breathable again.
• Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials-removing mold is necessary, and certain types of materials and surfaces must be cleaned accordingly. 
• Cleaning Contents and Belongings-all surfaces and contents must be addressed differently and once we've established what type of mold you could possibly have; a plan of action is put into place. 

If you suspect any mold or a musty smell in your home or office, do not hesitate to call us at 507-200-3700 for a free inspection. We will arrive quickly and prepared to help in every way possible. Our number one goal is helping to make any property damage, whether from mold, water/fire, or storm damage a thing of the past. 

Faster to any size disaster

11/18/2022 (Permalink)

Arriving promptly to a service call

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Faster to any size disaster. Having a professional company like SERVPRO handle your water damage is the best choice you can make.

Why? Because we have stellar technicians who have gone through massive amounts of training, use the most advanced technology and industrial grade equipment and will handle any size disaster at any time of the day. 

Let's face it. Water damage is never planned but every water damage is an emergency. If not assessed and treated immediately secondary damage such as microbial growth can occur making more costly repairs and lowering the chances of restoring a family's home and contents. 

Our goal is always RESTORE VS REPLACE. That is perhaps why many insurance companies require homeowners to hire accredited professionals (like SERVPRO) in fire and water damage restoration. 

Our technicians receive great feedback from our customers because we do everything in our power to make the damage "Like it never even happened." 

If you experience vandalism, require biohazard clean-up or endure a flood, fire; suspect mold or need any commercial or residential deep cleaning, give us a call at 507-200-3700. We are Here to Help.

Choose SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for all your water damage emergencies

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Our technicians are prepared for all the ages in your family when you experience a water damage emergency:)

Why choose SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna? 

When your faced with a water damage disaster, our technicians go above and beyond to help make the damage less stressful on you and your family. 

Story Time…from our technician/owner operator to you.

I arrived at the residence to scope out the water damage emergency. The “washing machine failed to do its job” as the homeowner had put in those exact words. I could tell it was a stressful event for her. I started the inspection immediately and turned the water off and got to work. After all the water was extracted, I went to my truck to grab equipment to start the drying process and saw a little boy watching me in the window. We always carry little green SERVPRO ducks in the dash of our vans, so I grabbed one on my way inside the home. Little did I know there were two more kids and I had only one left in the van that afternoon. I mean, “what we’re the chances of that happening?” As promised, the very next day, I brought more. The kiddos had such a great time playing with the SERVPRO ducks and it kept them busy while I discussed the next steps of the restoration process. I gave the mother a few more ducks to stash in case the children lost them. That was the highlight of my day, seeing those happy faces, mom included, and I was glad to help. 

Ken

At Mankato/Owatonna, we will go above and beyond to help you and your family during a water damage crisis. 

If you find yourself in need of water damage restoration services, seek no further than the professional crews at Mankato/Owatonna. We are here to make the damage “Like it never even happened.” You can reach us at 507-200-3700 or online here, by submitting a contact form for us to call you at your convenience. 

 Franchises are independently owned and operated 

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Your emergency is our emergency. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.

Whether you experience a flood or require deep commercial cleaning, our highly skilled and experienced technicians are just a call away.

We understand you probably have enough to do in your day-to-day business schedule that you don’t have time to clean up after a water damage disaster. Our crews at Mankato/Owatonna can help you overcome the water damage emergency while you continue attending to your everyday business.

Your emergency is our emergency. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. Your commercial property’s appearance speaks volumes to your clients and allows for your employees to work in comfort. So, when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna has the training, expertise, and industrial grade equipment to handle any size disaster.

The longer you wait to call a professional restoration company like us, the probability of secondary damage is likely to happen which can include microbial growth of any kind. Our Techniques and cleaning solutions meet the requirements of:

• (CDC) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• (EPA) Environmental Protection Agency
• (FDA) Food and drug Administration
• (OSHA) Occupational Safety and health Administration

We offer a wide variety of services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business.

If you need a particular service and are unsure if we can provide it, just give us a call; we’ve seen and cleaned it all. You can reach our friendly office staff at 507-200-3700 or submit a contact form here for us to reach out at a time that works for you.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.  

Kitchen fires are the leading cause of fire damage in the U.S

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire restoration services available 24/7/52

Fires are not only devastating and destructive, but they leave behind harmful smoke and soot particles and, in most cases, water damage from the firefighting efforts. Not only does fire and smoke damage affect the structure of your home, but it also affects your personal belongings as well. Our focus is on Restoring vs replacing and you’d be surprised what we can clean and restore to preloss conditions.

Soot spreads fast and leaves behind a greasy residue that can be hard to clean all on your own. It is crucial to remove the residue and smoke odor with the appropriate techniques and solutions, otherwise the soot will just spread, and the odor will remain in the structure and in your belongings for years to come.  

Our Mankato / Owatonna team specializes in restoring contents damaged by water, fire, or mold. Our expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that can’t be replaced. We pretest your belongings to determine what items we can restore to pre-fire condition, and we use several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned.
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product.

We also provide onsite content claim inventory services for you and your insurance company. Our Contents Claim Inventory Services:

• Pre-loss list and value of contents
• Detailed and accurate reports
• Better information to settle claims quicker
• Assistance with burden of proof for claims
• Organized list of what is salvageable and “in worse cases” what is not

Check out our website gallery photos to see what we’re capable of cleaning and restoring here.

If you or someone you know has suffered through a fire loss, do give us a call before you toss anything out. We have over 20 years of experience cleaning, restoring and we are Here to Help. Call us now at 507-200-3700 for fast, reliable fire & water restoration and cleaning services.

Franchises are independently owned and operated

Faster to any storm sized disaster

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Floods can happen at any time.

Restoring storm and flood-damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your Mankato / Owatonna property to its pre-storm condition.

Firstly, make sure you and your family or employees are safe and have taken shelter and care during a storm. Remember the saying, when thunder roars, go indoors. If there is no underground or reinforced shelter available, you need to find a location that is:

• As close to the ground as possible and away from trees
• As far inside the home or building as possible and put as many walls between you and the outside as you can
• Away from doors, windows, and outside walls
• In as small a room as possible such as a bathroom, closet, hallway or under stairs

You can find more safety information at your local safety depts or at the following links below:

• MN Dept of health and safety
• Weather.gov
• Redcross.org

The aftermath of a storm varies on many factors, such as high winds, hail, and lighting strikes, however, one fact is certain, that the team at Mankato/Owatonna is prepared and ready to help you regardless of the time or day you call. We are here to help you with fire damage, sump pump failures, sewer backs up, mold remediation, and any commercial storm damage help right down to boarding up the storefront of your business.

If the storms damaged the entire county, we have corporate sized resources to help every homeowner/business owner that calls. No job is too large and just as important, no job is too small. With disaster recovery teams strategically placed, our resources stretch throughout all areas of the United States and Canada. SERVPRO has a large support system because we want to help everyone and help make disasters, “Like it never even happened.” Call us as soon as it is safe to survey your property damage at 507-200-3700 and we’ll arrive promptly in our green trucks, ready to help.

Franchises are independently owned and operated

Moisture Can Lead to Mold

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

We have the advanced equipment, resources and training to handle any mold remediation situation.

Our teams at SERVPRO of Mankato/ Owatonna are ready and prepared for any water damage that can occur to your home or business.

Moisture hides in cracks, under floors, behind baseboards, within drywall and the list can go on and on and we’ve seen it all.  Our certified and trained Water Restoration Technicians have the best professional equipment to measure the moisture in your home and in all those unsuspecting place.  You just never know where moisture can hide but if it’s not found and professionally dried, secondary damage such as mold can occur. 

Trust the professionals. Here is an outline of the water damage restoration process below:

1. The restoration process begins when you call us. Our team will ask pertinent questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources to bring.
2. While on site at your property, we determine the scope of your water damage at the current stage. Then, we inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.
3. The water removal process begins immediately, and our team removes the majority of the water by using powerful industrial pumps and vacuum extraction units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and possible mold growth.
4. Our Water Restoration Technicians will take room measurements, temperature readings, and relative humidity readings to determine the optimal number of commercial air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.
5. In addition we clean, remove, and pack up any contents that are in your space as requested.  We clean all the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are adept at cleaning contents using an array of techniques and solutions. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.
6. Restoration is the process of restoring your home or business to its pre-water damage condition.  It could take a day or many days depending on the damage. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.
7. We will ensure that you understand each step of the process and document all work with photos, meter readings, and provide this to your insurance team if you chose to make an insurance claim as well as communicate directly with your adjuster.

If you face damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Mankato/ Owatonna at 507-200-3700 for fast, emergency restoration help.

What should you do when you discover mold in your home or business?

8/19/2022 (Permalink)

When you discover mold in your home or business, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help immediately assess, contain, and provide expert remediati

If you discover mold in your home or business, your immediate response is probably along the lines of panic. You’re probably wondering, what should I do if I discover mold in my home? You may even be tempted to google; how do I get rid of mold? Or how do I clean mold? But you don’t have to panic or do all the extensive, not to mention, exhaustive research because the team at Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help make that mold damage you discover “Like it never happened.”

Our teams have already completed massive amounts of training, certifications and mastered proper techniques to remediate and when necessary, remove the mold carefully. Not only that but our team at Mankato/Owatonna has all the powerful equipment and solutions to attack any type of mold situation that arise.

If you discover mold or even suspect mold growth “our team WILL find the source” growing in your home or business, give the Mankato/Owatonna team a call @ 507-200-3700 and follow these tips below until we can get to you and assess the damage:

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and any fans you may have on.
• Contact SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

Understanding Mold

Some restoration companies advertise “mold removal” and may even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy because removing all mold from a house or business is impossible; microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, both indoors and outdoors.

Here are the facts:

• 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.

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna @507-200-3700 for a free, no cost estimate of services or reach us online here and we'll call you when it's convenient at your schedule. Whether it’s a large area discovered or a small surface amount of mold, our teams have the training, equipment, and expertise to tackle any mold situation. We’ve been helping the communities of Blue Earth, Steele, Waseca, and surrounding cities for years and are here for you 24/7/52. 

Franchises are independently owned and operated

ONE CALL-DOES IT ALL

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Technicians available to help you 24/7/365

Why call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for professional water damage mitigation? 

As an IICRC Certified Firm and trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna has highly trained technicians that are dedicated to responding faster to any size disaster. Our staff is highly trained in property damage resulting from fire damage, water damage, stubborn mold growth, and more. We provide 24-hour emergency service and have the training and expertise to handle your restoration and cleaning needs in a timely manner because we’re:

• “Faster to any size disaster.”

• Will handle everything from start to finish, even helping with all the insurance paperwork and communications with your adjuster. 
• We have powerful industrial equipment to handle any size job. 
• On call 24/7/52 which means you’ll always be greeted by a friendly voice no matter what time of day or night you call for help
• We are always on top of the latest trends, practices of water damage restoration 
• Certified in every service we offer
• Guarantee on all our work performed in your home or business 
• This list -could go on and on

Our knowledge of water damage restoration will make your eyes pop. No, we’re not kidding. IICRC training, e-learnings, and continued education are just a few trainings to mention we employees undergo to be the best restoration specialists available for you 24/7/365. For a more detailed list, visit our website training pages for yourself to see the training all our staff takes pride in.

Know, that when you call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, you’ll be making the right phone call. We’ve got your back and we’re always Here to Help®

Give us a call at 507-200-3700 as soon as you notice any signs of water damage.

No such storm can stop SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna from getting to your home or business to help you.

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

What you may see is a tree blocking travel to your home, but what we SERVPRO technicians see is just another challenge we’re excited to overcome.

We’ve maneuvered around just about anything, and we’ve done it safely. We can tell you a funny story when we get to you but first, you just have to call us. The owner, Ken Green, has been in the restoration field for nearly 30 years and has a story for every obstacle he's overcome while helping customers during a storm. 

With storm and water damage, time is of the essence. It's incredibly important you call us immediately because the sooner we get to your water damage, the better chances we have to prevent secondary damage from occurring which may not always be 100% covered by your insurance company.

Because we don’t know what kind of coverage you have and at times, most people we’ve helped don’t know how much coverage they have until they need it, so call us as soon as you can, and we’ll be on our way in a bright green truck to save the day.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is part of SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team and we have ample experience to overcome even the toughest obstacles to get to you. 

Whenever you need help, even if you’re unsure of the service, we probably offer it and if we don’t, we’ll certainly find a way to add it. We are SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna and we’re always ready to help make the damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Call us today, at 507-200-3700

You can reach us by calling 507-200-3700 or jump on our website and chat with us or submit a form for us to contact you.

Water damage happens in vehicles too

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

We Use Advanced Drying Equipment and Techniques to dry out any type of structure.

Water damage is no fun no matter where or what from. 

Broken or burst pipes can happen on any level in a home. Even dishwashers and washing machines can malfunction causing water to spill everywhere. One environment you may not consider water damage to happen in, can and will.

Leaving a glass water bottle in a cold vehicle during the winter is another way water damage can happen. You’d think common sense would play a fair role in this photo, but reality and a tired body or mind can lead to small mistakes that can turn into big ones. 

COULD YOU BELIEVE...

Anything can freeze in a vehicle overnight in the winter season, but did you know, this glass bottle, as we are told, was only in a vehicle for the duration of four hours in Minnesota's harsh and cold winters?

As you can see, the water in this glass bottle froze allowing for the glass to crack under pressure. What’s next you ask? 

Well, if you’re not able to safely remove the glass water bottle while still frozen, the end result would be having to wait for the ice to defrost resulting in, you guessed it, water damage. 

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

Every water disaster is different, from the amount of water to the level of contamination of the water. Each scenario requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our process for the “typical” water damage emergency.

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair

Step 6: Restoration

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna can dry our structures of homes and businesses but we can also, if need be, dry out a vehicle too. The professionals at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna have these super amazing psychometry skills they’ve learned and become certified in, so we can dry out anything that has water damage. Yes, even a vehicle. Have we done it before? Of course, we have. 

Call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700 for all your water damage restoration needs. We are Here to Help® you 24hrs a day. 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 

The Minnesota Thaw in April

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

An air-to-air exchanger can build up towering icicles that could lead to home flooding.

Water Damage Repair and Restoration

Now that spring is slowly arriving, it is important to do a walk around maintenance check on all the plumbing exiting your home or business. 

Some of us are fortunate to have an air-to-air exchanger installed in our homes. Most newer homes have this feature, some installed in older homes too and while it’s quite a refreshing pleasure to have, you should also be aware of any ice buildup than can occur over the winter. 

HERE COMES THE MUD AND FLOOD

Spring can be muddy in Minnesota. Shoes, pets and kids can bring in a lot of mud and dirt making "Spring cleaning" an extra chore in itself.

Did you also know? Spring can be a sign to do a thorough maintenance check on your home to prevent said "Floods." It is always important to be ready for a flood. The Minnesota department of public safety HSEM Home - Spring Flooding (mn.gov) has some useful tips to be prepared for the melting of our winter snow.

Before a Flood

The following list includes action steps everyone can take to prepare for any type of flooding:

1. Assemble an emergency kit: It should include provisions for you and your family to live on for a at least three days. Do not forget medications, medical equipment needs, phone chargers and pet supplies.
   
   
2. Make an emergency plan: Communicate and practice that plan with your family. Choose an evacuation route. Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government.
   
   
3. Get a NOAA Weather Radio: Listen for information, including advisories, watches and warnings. Watch news reports for information and sign up for text alerts.
   
   
4. Prepare your home: Elevate appliances such as the furnace, water heater and electric panel. Install "check valves" to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home. Construct barriers to stop water from entering the building and seal basement walls.
   
   
5. Get flood insurance: Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage and any disaster assistance will not cover all damages. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider additional coverage. Flood insurance takes 30 days to go into effect, so purchase now to protect your family. 

If you were too late to check these maintenance checks and perhaps are experiencing a Spring flood, don’t worry, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is just a call away to help. Call us at 507-200-3700 for fast emergency services.

Even if you’re unsure if there is damage, we have specialized equipment to check your home or business for any excess moisture. As part of the community, we are your neighbors and would be glad to be your first call for a free investigation or estimate of services. 

When you call our offices, you will be greeted by one of our sincere and skilled office personnel who will ask you important questions about your specific situation. We will then, ready our crews and trucks and be on our way, “Faster to any size disaster” and prepared to make any damage, "Like it never even happened."

Franchises are independently owned and operated

Blizzards and snowfall are still possible

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Although we know you want to, because we do too, don't pack away your shovels just yet.

Don't put that shovel away just yet!

According to the Minnesota DNR, Historic April Snowstorms | Minnesota DNR, Minnesota is known to have historic snow fall and blizzards leading into April. The top eleven largest April Snowstorms in the Twin Cities areas from 1891-2019 are as followed:

#1 April 13-16, 2018, 15.8 inches

#2 April 14, 1983, 13.6 inches

#3 April 27-28, 1907, 13.0 inches

#4 April 19-21, 1893, 10.0 inches 

#5 April 10-12, 2019, 9.8 inches

#6 April 29-30, 1984, 9.7 inches

#7 April 6-9   1923 9.6 inches

#8 April 13-14, 1928, 9.5 inches

#9 April 13-14, 1949, 9.3 inches

#10 April 2-3   2018 9.0 inches

#11 April 8-9   1980 7.6 inches

#11 April 1-2   2002 7.6 inches

We're quite astonished by those numbers too.

however, like we suggested, don't pack away the shovels just yet. Although we've had a nice warm up towards the end of this March, there is still a chance of blizzards and snowfall to come. 

We recommend using these tips from the CDC for preparations if you have not done so yet. Preparing for a Winter Storm|Winter Weather (cdc.gov)

Heavy winds alone from a blizzard can do horrendous damage to your roof causing heavy impacted snow to cave into your ceiling. We hope you do not experience any damage from a blizzard, but if you do, rest assured the professional, experienced technicians at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna are Here to Help® make the storm damage, "Like it never even happened."

For Fast Reliable Storm Damage Emergency Services, call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is here for you

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Powerful industrial equipment, exceptionally trained Technicians and 24/hr service for you.

Why choose SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna when you experience a flood/fire or mold emergency?

Let us tell you why.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has been serving the communities of Blue Earth, Steele and Waseca counties and surrounding counties since 2018. Before that, the owner, Ken Green, serviced other metro areas in a previous franchise and more. 

With over 20 years of experience, owner/operator, Ken Green and the teams at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna have been compassionate about helping others during stressful and difficult times. 

We know that when you are facing a sudden disaster, such as a flooded laundry room, mold in the guest bathroom or "Gasp" a basement filled with sewage; it can become scary and anxiety levels can quite literally climb the levels of your home. 

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna understands how stressful these situations can be. We see it every single day. However, everyone's situation is different, but the super skilled and certified technicians at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna know how to handle each and every scenario and damage you may come across.

Don't fret, climb the walls of your home, or scream; actually, scream quick if you'd like but then, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700. You'll be glad you did. 

We can attack any size disaster. Big or small. It doesn't matter to us if the mold is just a small spot in the celling, or if your entire basement is covered in sewage or water. We have your back with powerful industrial grade extraction and air mover equipment, top notch cleaning methods and solutions and one very valuable asset we bring to each and every destination we're called to:

• Initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility
• Regular IICRC industry certifications
• Ongoing online E-learnings
• Employee Certification Training in all services offered and needed to get your life back after disasters strike. 

You can trust the technicians at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna have the professional training and skills, not to mention, the "quick, fast acting know how" to handle even the toughest, most complicated disasters that can happen in a home or commercial building. 

Call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700 for 24hr emergency services. We'll make all the mentioned disasters, "Like it never even happened."

Storm damage can happen anytime of the year in MN

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

Winter storm damage in March can be just as harsh as July storms in MN.

If you didn't live in Minnesota, you wouldn't know that we Minnesotans experience harsh storms all year long. 

Blizzards with heavy snow and high winds can rip through roofs, down power lines and even kids' toys left out during the seasons just as much as a large July thunderstorm can. 

We experience all kinds of weather in Minnesota, which is why many of us dress in layers, prepare for rains, snow and sleet. At times it can be difficult to prepare for damaging winds, thunderstorms, heat lightning storms, possibly hail and more. That's just Minnesota tough weather. But if the job becomes too tough for you to handle on your own, call the experts at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700.

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

We have ample experience dealing with flooded basements, ice dams, roof damage from thunderstorms that can allow the storm indoors and when you call us right away, we can help the disaster from spreading or becoming worse. 

Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your Mankato / Owatonna property to its pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to our local Mankato / Owatonna residents and business owners to help where help is needed. Our team of technicians will help ease any worries you might have and develop a plan that best suits you and your restoration needs.

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

One thing to always remember is, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna technicians are here for you 24hrs a day, 7 days week and 365 days a year. That's right! Anytime an emergency or disaster can strike, we are also available at those times.

Major storms and flooding events can overwhelm many restoration companies. However, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna can access resources from over 1900 Franchises across the state and country and even utilize Disaster Recovery Teams for major storms and disasters.

You are never alone or need to wait until normal business hours to call for help because we are available whenever you need us for emergency services. 

Preventing home fires

3/12/2022 (Permalink)

We are your professional and experienced emergency fire damage restoration company.

Have you checked the lint trap in your dryer lately?

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna stays busy all year long helping residents and businesses with fire damage emergency services. 

Did you know? A fire can become life-threatening in just two minutes. A residence can be engulfed in flames in just only five minutes.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has been helping people get their lives back on track from fire, smoke, and soot damage all year long. There are many sources online to educate yourself and family members such as the following Home Fires | Ready.gov

SERVPRO wants everyone to stay safe all year and would like to share some practical tips and facts about fires.

• Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames.
• Fire is HOT! Heat is more threatening than flames. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs and melt clothes to your skin.
• Fire is DARK! Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness.
• Fire is DEADLY! Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy.

Smoke Alarms

A working smoke alarm significantly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire.

• Replace batteries twice a year unless you are using 10-year lithium batteries.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement.
• Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 10 years or according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never disable a smoke alarm while cooking – it can be a deadly mistake.
• Audible alarms are available for visually impaired people and smoke alarms with a vibrating pad or flashing light are available for the hearing impaired.

SERVPRO is always Here to Help®

If you are dealing with fire damage, the experienced team at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is ready to respond. Call us anytime you experience a fire at 507-200-3700, but first, go check that lint trap in your dryer while it’s still on your mind.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO technicians rescue commercial floods 24/7/365.

3/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna can help you with your commercial damage, 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Did you know that SERVPRO can help your business during any emergency?

Disasters come in all shapes and sizes. A paper jam in your office printer 10 minutes before that big meeting could seem like a disaster all its own. No problem. You can fix that by maneuvering out that jam and adding new paper. A flooded office is a different disaster. Now what do you do?

Let’s hope that an important meeting isn’t about to happen when your office(s) flood but if it does, don’t worry, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna will be there to rescue such disasters and more.

We’re a locally owned and operated company who takes pride in helping the community. As a small business owner ourselves, we want the best for other business leaders too. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna responds quickly to your Mankato fire, water, or mold damage emergency, 24 hours a day. Whether the damage occurs in a small business building or a big box store, we have the training, experience, and equipment to handle the situation. Our national network of 1950 Franchises gives us access to personnel and resources to respond to any size restoration emergency. We can help the following buildings and more:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

That’s why we use the most advanced equipment, professional team leaders and our valuable skills acquired through IICRC certifications.

When a crew arrives at your home or business you will be guaranteed professionalism at its highest. Our technicians undergo certification classes online and in person and maintain the continued education to stay up to date on industry best practices. Not only that but we offer a five year guarantee on our services.

If your offices have a flood due to a broken pipe, water main break, toilet overflow or whatever the situation; you can trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to be there as quickly as possible to rescue the damage like superheroes, to prevent further damage, and help make said damage "Like it never even happened."

Call our offices at 507-200-3700 and speak to one of our kind and compassionate office personnel, answer a few questions about your emergency and we’ll be ready to roll into your neighborhood packed and ready to help.

Franchises are independently owned and operated

Professional cleaning services are just a call away

3/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna's professional cleaning services can fit all your cleaning needs.

Whether you purchased a property that needs a deep cleaning, or you’ve just become too busy with life to be able to catch up with household chores. Whatever the scenario, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has got your back.

The majority of the time, SERVPRO is known for emergency services such as basement floods, fire damage restoration or mold mitigation but, did you know that SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna also provides deep cleaning services for commercial and residential customers? Services that go above and beyond the routine cleaning.

If you can imagine it, we’ve seen it. Trust us on that one. We have the best cleaning solutions and techniques to clean any disaster.

We can clean just about anything you can set your eye on. We can also work within your schedule that is convenient for you to make small and large disasters, "Like it never even happened." 

We’re Here to Help® get the grime out, take the burden off your shoulders, remove pet messes, and above all, renew your home to the relaxing environment it should be, Home Sweet Home.

You’d be surprised what our professionals at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna can accomplish with our cleaning methods, experience, and equipment. But… if you’d rather dare us, then by all means, let us show you how we can make a difference in the appearance of your offices or residential home.

Whatever unique challenges your office or commercial property faces, our team will respond quickly and work with you to develop a plan of action that best fits your needs.

Call our offices to schedule your cleaning needs and we’ll accommodate whatever we can to make you, yet another valued returning customer. Call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna today at 507-220-3700

Franchises are independently owned and operated 

When You Need Help NOW

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Our team is ready to help 24/7 day or night

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster in southern MN. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs quickly!

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Have Questions? Call Us 24/7 or use our ZyraChat function on our website.

SERVPROmankatoowatonna.com

507-200-3700

Residential Services

Whether your home needs emergency flood control or mold remediation, you can depend on us.  Our technicians have extensive cleaning and restoration training and can make your property look its best. Learn more about our residential services:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building/Reconstruction Services

Commercial Services

There's never a convenient time for fire or water damage to strike your Mankato/Owatonna commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. Learn more about our commercial services:

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation

We are the experts in your area ready and on call to help when disaster strikes. Call your locally owned location in Mankato/Owatonna for a quick response at 507-200-3700.

Commercial COVID Cleaning to Support Customer Needs For a Higher Standard of Clean

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Keep Your Commercial Building Clean for Customers

• Four in five (81%) respondents strongly agree or agree that businesses need to be more aggressive in their cleaning procedures and standards now compared to pre-COVID standards.
• Two-thirds of respondents consider hand sanitizer dispensers (68%) and employees wearing masks (67%) as must-haves for feeling comfortable entering businesses such as bookstores, clothing stores, hardware stores, restaurants, etc.
• Three in five respondents (58%) think companies that use professional cleaners will be much or somewhat cleaner than those that use their own staff.
• Almost two-thirds (64%) of respondents are much or somewhat more likely to choose to shop at the store that has a decal stating the store has been professionally cleaned.

(From a survey of 1,000 people conducted by SERVPRO)

Getting back to business relies on getting your customers back through your doors. And that will only happen if they feel safe and secure in your space. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean with 40% of consumers citing store cleanliness as a top concern. Are you ready to not only help keep your customers and employees safe but to communicate that you’ve chosen a higher standard of cleanliness for all Americans? Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that goes way beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration, we stand on over 50 years of experience and expertise so you can rest assured that you have selected a higher standard of clean for all Americans – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

CONSULT

A TAILORED CLEANING PROGRAM TO MEET YOUR NEEDS.

• We will assign you a Cleaning Protocol Specialist who understands your business.
• Programs are based on a range of factors: type of industry, business type, size of space, amount of high-frequency touchpoints, foot traffic, and congestion points.

CLEAN

PROACTIVE AND COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE CLEANING PROGRAM.

• Trained and experienced in biohazard cleaning and decontamination for porous and non-porous surfaces – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards for your facility set by the CDC.
• EPA-approved products, including our proprietary cleaning agent SERVPROXIDE, a hospital-grade disinfectant that is NSF certified for direct food surface use.

CERTIFY

A COMMITMENT TO CLEAN FOR YOUR EMPLOYEES AND CONSUMERS.

• Leverage SERVPRO’s trusted brand to reassure your customers and employees that you are taking the steps needed to keep your space at a higher level of clean.
• Communication touchpoints include a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned window emblem, signage, marks for your digital footprint, and more.

Call today to book a cleaning with SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to show your employees and customers you believe in a higher standard of clean.

507-200-3700

How to Prevent Mold in a New Build

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Find out how to prevent mold in your new build!

How to Build a Mold-Resistant Home or Commercial Building

Mold infestation can occur on almost any organic surface, and it is not a good look. When we think of mold, we think of rotten food that’s been left in the fridge for too long. But any place with moisture can attract mold and serve as a breeding ground.

No one likes having an unwelcomed outsider in their house, and mold in your homes can be extremely annoying. Getting rid of mold can be quite costly, and not only is it a bad look on your home, but it also causes many health effects.

So, instead of waiting around for your place to get infested with mold or taking precautions, it is safer to build a mold-resistant home or any building. Mold can make a living hard for the habitants and reduce the market value of your place as well. Here are some ways you can prevent this from happening in the first place:

Construction Strategies

You can get advice from a mold prevention consultant before you get started with your property’s blueprint. You can incorporate strategies in your building designs and water installation plans. Many construction materials are made of stuff that can withstand moisture and airflow.

You can use water-resistant material when you start the construction process, and you can have it installed for your walls, flooring, and roofs. Often, during rain or snowfall, water seeps into your walls and roofs, which can lead to mold infestation.

To prevent this from happening, you need to utilize well-coated moisture-proof wood or any other building material. Often, people design their building structure in a way that keeps water and rain from seeping inside your building’s foundations.

Keep the Building Dry

Just like when food is left in a place with heavy moisture, it can grow mold. The same thing can happen if any space or corner of your building is wet, and it can lead to mold. You can invest in a dehumidifier if you live in a place where the weather is often humid.

Mold can often start growing in places you don’t even think of! Cracks in your walls, cupboards, and cabinets are some of the places you should look into immediately. Make sure to seal and repair any cracks in your walls and roof as soon as possible.

You can use water-proof materials to install an extra layer on top of your flooring and roofs to make sure there is no room for anything to grow. Invest in the best quality plumbing equipment and materials, so there are no chances of any water leakage after a few years.

Get Rid of Any Sources of Humidity

A lot of time, a mold infestation can be tricky, and if you’re in charge of a commercial building, you might not be aware of all the places responsible for the spread of mold. Get the help of an expert to take a look at your structure and inform you about any possible sources of humidity.

Sometimes drying-in isn’t sufficient to dispose of dampness, and the mold can keep on spreading. That generally happens when there is another source of humidity in the house. For example, people often remove their drywalls to redesign their house or get rid of asbestos, and water is used in the process, which leads to humidity.

One method of getting rid of this new humidity source is to wait for a few days until the moisture evaporates and then proceed with the construction. However, it’s always best not to have any potential sources to prevent future disasters.

Double-Check Everything Beforehand

Once you are done with the construction and getting everything set up, it is essential to look all around the house or building because mold is supposed to be sneaky. Most of the time, we notice it after months when it has already spread too far.

It’s better to be safe than sorry; make sure you check everything beforehand:

• Having a water-resistant rooftop
• Utilizing water-resistant exteriors on the house
• Having water-tight windows
• Water-proofing each opening around the windows, entryways, and different regions

Ventilate During Construction

During construction in hotter and humid regions, doors and windows need to be kept open to ensure there is enough room for ventilation and natural drying of all the materials like cement, concrete, and in the end paint.

Ensure that you avoid using any heaters to dry out the building compounds and the paint because they add more humidity into the air. However, mechanical equipment like dryers or fans can be used to have low-humidity in the air and overall reduce any moisture.

Install Drains for Water to Exit

At times, because of heavy rainfall or snow, water can gather around on a rooftop, make its way to your walls and become a home for mold. You need to install proper drains on different places like your rooftop or shower to make sure the water exits easily.

You can make sure your structure is designed in a way, so it stays on a slope that is directed towards the drains. Unfortunately, if any water gets inside your wall, you can have water barrier designs installed to prevent this from happening.

Takeaway- Keep Mold Out of Your Buildings

Mold is never a good sign no matter where it appears because it leads to surface damage and health effects. It’s a huge risk for any business as well; imagine if your consumers are looking for professional services and they come to you, but see your mold-infested floors. They are bound to reconsider hiring you for your services.

Keeping your place dry and mold-free can be a complex procedure. You will need to be consistent, careful, and look out for any signs of mold. These tips can be helpful if you’re thinking of building a house or any building. Take preventative measures as a way to secure your building’s foundations from mold and call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to take care of an existing mold issue today at 507-200-3700.

What to Do When Making an Insurance Claim After Water Damage

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Call us to help with beginning your water damage claims process.

How to begin a water damage claims process

Whether it comes from bursting pipes, a broken appliance or a leaky roof, water can cause significant damage to your South Central, MN home. It can damage building materials, cause mold growth and ruin electronics. Homeowners insurance can help you pay for repairs. Take the following steps if you find yourself in this situation.

1. Call Right Away
It is important to start your insurance claim as quickly as possible. Not only will this result in completing the process sooner, but it will also help ensure that your claim isn’t affected. Some policies require you to report water damage within a certain time. If this is not done, it can reduce the amount you receive or can result in your claim being denied.

2. Document the Damage
Your insurance adjuster will need information on the areas of the house that were damaged, including whether there are bursting pipes and flooding, as well as any belongings that may need to be repaired or replaced. You should provide a list with pictures and the estimated value of included items.

3. Perform Mitigation
Mitigation is the process of preventing damage from spreading and worsening. This should be done quickly to reduce the amount of time and money needed to make repairs. An emergency cleanup and restoration company can inspect your home, fix broken pipes, remove water and repair the building along with damaged belongings.

4. Go Over Your Policy
Because individual insurance policies will vary, you should read over yours carefully. Make sure that you are familiar with anything that is required of you while making a claim as well as what is covered by your insurance. This will help the process go more smoothly.
Bursting pipes and other causes of damage can be frustrating to deal with. Making an insurance claim can also be stressful if you are unprepared. Following these steps can help you get through the situation more easily.

For help with your water damage claim call the experts at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700

Covid Cleaning for Trucks and Service Vehicles

12/2/2020 (Permalink)

We are now available to clean your fleet! Trucking companies, delivery vehicles, and service vehicles can be cleaned using our 3 C's, products and techniques from our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program. Both proactive and reactive cleanings are available.

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 Cleaned reflects 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 Mankato/Owatonna today at  507-200-3700 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO franchises perform the requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services according to proprietary SERVPRO protocols and recognized industry and CDC standards with EPA approved cleaning products to deliver a SERVPRO certified cleaning experience.  Each SERVPRO franchise is independently owned and operated.

Insurance Clients

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is Here to Help through the entire claims process

SERVPRO franchise professionals understand your situation. As an agent or adjuster, you have a responsibility to keep claims costs down while still providing the best services possible for your customers.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are uniquely qualified to help. Our results create a measurable difference, giving you many competitive advantages.

Emergency Response to Claims

Restoring property is the SERVPRO franchise professional's first priority. Your customer will appreciate the immediate response and you will know everything is being done to limit the damage.

Pretesting Reduces Claims Expense

Restoring property is less expensive than replacing property. Claims Professionals know the rule is, "Restore whenever possible, replace only when necessary." SERVPRO franchise professionals make sure pretesting is completed on every loss to determine restorability.

Claims Inventory Service

SERVPRO franchise professionals can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.

Electronic Claims Information

Our Claims Information Center provides fast, accurate information you need to make sound decisions, including:

• A Complete Electronic Job File.
• First Notice of Loss.
• Detailed Estimate.
• Digital Loss Photos.
• Scanned Forms and Paperwork.
• All delivered by email or hard copy.
• On-line Access to All Files.
• New Assignments.
• Pending Jobs.
• Completed Jobs.
• Informative Reports to Improve Results
• Job Cost Data.

• Performance Comparison to Industry Standard.

Superior, Time-Tested Training

Effective training is the best way to help ensure your customers receive the service they deserve. Franchises are trained to IICRC standards in Fire and Water Cleanup and Restoration. In addition, continuing education classes are available to franchise professionals and insurance clients at our state-of-the-art IICRC Approved Training Facility.

Vendor Qualification Compliance and Professionalism

If you call SERVPRO, we will use only qualified vendors to service your customer. That commitment resulted in:

• A Customer Care Center to achieve prompt handling of the claim.
• Implementation of best practices and job process programs.
• National Accounts qualification criteria and annual compliance checks.
• Crew and vehicle standards.
• Insurance requirements.
• File documentation requirements.
• Quality assurance program.

Serving Adjusters and Their Clients

A SERVPRO franchise professional's job is to reassure the customer, perform quality service and to report to you quickly. We know your job is to interpret the policy and adjust the claim... and not to deal with problems from vendors! Working together we strive to save you time so you can focus on priority files, while having complete control of every loss you are assigned. 24-hour emergency response, damage mitigation, loss assessment, and an electronic file are available to you within hours. SERVPRO franchise professionals’ documented, measured performance increases value to you and your shareholders, managers and customers.

Hard-earned results have made SERVPRO leaders in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. The SERVPRO System is geared to achieve customer satisfaction and mitigation results, adding to your company’s competitive advantage.

3 Fire Extinguisher Facts for Businesses

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for fire damage cleanup in your Mankato workplace

3 Facts About Fire Extinguishers

A fire extinguisher is a crucial piece of safety equipment that can save lives and spare commercial properties from extensive damage mandating professional cleanup and restoration. Because of this, every business in Mankato, MN should maintain at least one functional device. To ensure it’s readily available in an emergency, every owner and manager should also recognize three key facts about this vital fire suppression tool.

1. Device Doesn’t Last Forever

Extinguishers do not have an indefinite shelf life. Unfortunately, they also do not typically come with an expiration date sticker.

To determine the viability of your device, you should complete annual inspections and check for compromised components. Specific defects that may make it unusable include a broken handle, missing locking pin or a cracked nozzle. The gauge should also be in the green. If it’s not, replace the device.

2. Multiple Types Exist

A fire extinguisher is designed to battle specific types of infernos. Class K units, for example, can douse a kitchen fire sparked by grease while a Class A device is designated for use with blazes involving ordinary combustibles, such as wood and paper. Additional distinctions include Class C for electrical fires and Class B for flammable liquids.

Attempting to smother flames with the wrong type of device can be ineffective. To combat this potential dilemma, evaluate your company’s specific fire risks and purchase your extinguisher accordingly. Check the canister’s label to confirm the class. You can also purchase a multipurpose device, which can be used against a variety of blazes.

3. Should Be Accessible and Visible

Minimizing fire damage requires prompt action. To ensure an expedited response, mount your extinguisher in a safe, accessible place and post signage to identify its location. You should also ensure staff recognize this area and refrain from blocking the site.

Because an inferno can erupt suddenly, having a functioning fire extinguisher easily accessible is a crucial safety strategy. Understanding key aspects of the device can ensure it’s in prime operating condition and ready to perform in an emergency.

If your home or business experiences fire or smoke damage, call your local experts at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

The Cleaning Experts You Need Now

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

SERVPRO is Here to Help During This Time of Need

During these unprecedented times cause by the Covid-19 pandemic, we are here to remind our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services that go far beyond janitorial services. 

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business in accordance to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants. We have the training, staffing, equipment, and cleaners needed to do any scope of work.

The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfection of high-touch or high-traffic areas in your home such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, phones, keyboards, remotes, and electronic devices. In commercial spaces they recommend the disinfection of:

• Kitchens/Breakrooms
• Bathrooms
• Classrooms/School Facilities
• Office Areas
• Retail Spaces
• Water Fountains
• Sinks
• Shelves
• Sales Counters/Registers
• Carpets and Rugs
• Stair railings
• Elevators
• Playground Equipment
• Residential Halls
• Elderly Living Facilities
• Fitness Facilities or Equipment
• Daycares/Childcare 

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Many products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claim. While there are currently no products tested against the specific strain of the coronavirus, we follow all guidelines as provided and updated from the CDC and local health officials. 

Call Today for Proactive or Reactive Covid-19 Cleaning with the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Program

Call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna now!

507-200-3700

Fire Damage in your Owatonna Home

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

If you have fire, smoke, soot or water damage from firefighting efforts, call 507-200-3700.

FIRE Damage in your Owatonna Home

According to a report published by the National Fire Protection Association:

• Every 24 seconds a fire department in the United States responds to a fire somewhere in the nation
• A fire occurs in a structure at the rate of one every 63 seconds
• A home fire occurs every 87 seconds

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has been providing a variety of fire restoration and cleaning services to Minnesotans for years. Our team of highly trained technicians are certified in fire restoration to safely clean and restore household items damaged by fire. We will pretest your belongings to determine what can be restored to pre-fire condition and we use several methods of cleaning including:

• Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning
• Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
• Spray and Wipe -effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
• Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is on call 24 hours a day to respond to any size fire damage emergency. Call us today at 507-200-3700. We’ll clean up your fire, smoke, soot, and water damage from firefighting efforts. 

Checking for Mold this Fall

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Found Mold? Call 507-200-3700

Mold Season

Mold season is the time of year when mold is most likely to grow due to factors like location and climate. While mold can grow any time, but there are certain months out of the year that mold growth is most common. Mold growth is most common from early spring to mid-fall, but peaks during late summer. Be sure to check for excess moisture on your property during weather and climate changes, such as snow thaw, heavy rain, and humidity.

Mold forms when its airborne spores encounter moisture and food sources, such as wood, dirt, and paper. Moisture can be found in humidifiers, leaky roofs and pipes, flooding, and on walls. Mold growth has an unpleasant odor, and causes damage to the structural core of the building. It also increases the risk of allergens and infections in the residents of the home. Young children, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems are the most at risk for health effects.

Winter is the season when mold is dormant, but that doesn’t mean the threat is completely gone. Mold doesn’t die out during winter – it “hibernates,” especially in areas with extremely low temperatures. Areas with mild winters may experience mold growth all year long. After the mold has been dormant for the winter, it can find hosts in damp places or dead plants. To prevent this, have a mold remediation specialist, like SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna come in and assess and resolve the issue. Be alert during early spring to mid-fall and learn about mold damage during each season.

Mid-Fall

Fall is the time of year when mold slows down and begins readying to “hibernate” during the winter. Fall is the easiest part of the mold season because the mold becomes dormant due to the increasingly cold weather and homeowners don’t have to worry about rain or humidity causing mold growth. However, continue to check your home for mold in mid-fall to remove the dormant mold before wintertime.

As temperatures are dropping and we are considering all the ways we need to prep ourselves and our homes for winter, consider checking for mold! If you find something concerning or you are unsure, call an expert, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, for your mold remediation!

To learn more about mold remediation vs "removal" visit our website or call 507-200-3700

Storm Season 2020

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Storm teams across the US from SERVPRO have come together to help Southern states after months of damage created from hurricanes and tropical storms. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has spent the last month helping these communities begin to recover after the devastating effects of these storms. Water removal, drying, mold remediation and clean up of materials have been the daily routine for our team. It is an honor to be a part of such a renowned national team who is trusted to help families and businesses begin the process of cleanup and saving what was left in the storms' path.

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. So far, there have been a total of 26 tropical or subtropical cyclones, 25 named storms, 9 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes. With 25 named storms, it is the second most active Atlantic hurricane season on record, behind the 2005 season. The devastation has amounted in 144 deaths and $24.225 Billion in estimated damages. SERVPRO has been there from the beginning to try and pick up the pieces, and be a part of the resolution.

Our location has been able to help numerous homes and businesses every day. With more storms to come, the SERVPRO teams are dedicated to helping until the storms have passed. With our over 1,700 locations, we are Faster to any size disaster. 2020 has been a tumultuous year for many families and businesses and the storm season has made it even more devastating. However, the folks in Lake Charles, Louisiana, where we have centered our help, have been kind, warm, welcoming and so appreciative of our team. Amidst disaster, this community is coming together to triumph after trauma.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

507-200-3700

Signs Your Home May Have Water Damage

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

Water bill shockingly high? Something may be leaking!

Signs Of Water Damage

Even the smallest water leak is capable of costing you thousands of dollars in repairs and remediation, but the earlier you catch the issue, the sooner and more efficiently it can be fixed. Lucky for you, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, MN, is Faster to Any Size Disaster.
There are many causes of a water leak, including but not limited to:

• Pipe break
• The freeze/thaw cycle
• Broken seals
• High water pressure
• Clogged lines
  
  

But how do you know when you need to call your local water damage specialists?

1. Staining on Walls
Discoloration on walls or ceilings is one of the most common signs of water damage. Always look out for those mysterious-looking brown patches, and act fast if you spot one. Water staining doesn't develop overnight — the water may have been leaking for days or even weeks by the time the discoloration becomes perceptible.

2. Pricey Water Bills
If your water bill has been increasing even though your usage has remained about the same, you might be relieved to hear that this could be a sign of a pipe break or other water line malfunction. All that expensive water is going somewhere, and it's crucial to put a stop to it before it does too much damage.

3. Poor Water Pressure (or None at All!)
Another sign of a leaky pipe is a sudden change in your water pressure or no water coming out of the faucets at all. This is caused by the water draining out of the pipe break and not leaving enough water to be distributed to the rest of the system. If you encounter this issue, the water is likely gushing out in a place where you don't want it, so make sure to get help before it develops into a full-fledged flood.
By keeping an eye out for these three signs of a water leak, you might just be protecting your commercial building from a messy and costly disaster.

Call your South Central MN Water Damage Specialists if You Encounter Any of These Signs

507-200-3700

Highly Trained Professionals

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna guide you

We keep up with every bit of training to assist our Southern Minnesota homes.

When a Southern MN homeowner tries to determine the extent of a water loss, both instincts and common sense can fall short. When water gets loose inside your home, it can migrate far from the original plumbing break, roof leak, or appliance breakdown. Without the tools to detect the path the water followed, significant damage can go unnoticed. Our investments in education and innovative moisture identification tools help avoid additional expense and secondary damage, why we offer our help. 

Water Detection is a Science and an Art

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) courses our managers and production technicians master covers the expected and unexpected behavior of water damage inside a Southern MN home. The lathe and plaster and stucco construction of signature Arts and Crafts structures are both charming and capable of hiding water damage when it is minor and manageable. Our training and experience in tracing water meanderings behind walls and built-in fixtures explains why we are skilled in finding and solving water problems before the integrity of your home is compromised.

Aging Heating and Plumbing Plus Temperature Extremes Equal Water Damage Challenges

When your dining room oak floor develops cupping and crowning the search for a water source can be daunting. Older homes often retain their 100-year-old gravity heating, with old radiators filled with hot water from the boiler in the basement warming spaces. Rusted pipes and failing valves can slowly saturate the floor, unnoticed at first as the issue begins and then spreads from behind the radiator at the wall. Mold development on a main level wall or ceiling can trace to ice dam development the previous winter, moisture seeping in the attic from clogged gutters eventually traveling downwards. Our familiarity with this type of insidious damage is why SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna can respond quickly and reliably to your water damage challenges.

Sensitive Moisture Meters and Infrared Cameras

The availability of and skill in using water detection tools are why SERVPRO crews can outline water damage with accuracy and confidence. Infrared technology indicates the presence of water through temperature variations. Moisture meters establish relative levels of absorbed water in building materials. Periodic use of these tools throughout a water damage remediation project ensures we find and release liquids. Then our Applied Structural Drying (ASD)-certified technicians create an effective drying plan using the data, moving water out of structural components with temperature adjustments and air movement. Dehumidifiers capture the vaporized water for disposal. Moisture measurements continue until we reach designated levels, avoiding over or under drying.

Training and innovative equipment are two reasons why SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna efficiently mitigates and remediates hidden water damage. Call us at 507-200-3700 if you suspect your home, old OR new harbors damaging moisture.

 Click here to find out more: https://www.SERVPROmankatoowatonna.com/water-damage-restoration

Water Damage Solutions For Your South Central MN Coop/Specialty Food Store

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Let us save your deli/co-op

Water Damage Solutions For Your South Central MN Coop/Specialty Food Store

Local residents enjoy alternatives to national grocery chains, and your neighborhood coop or niche food shop is a welcome addition to the mix. Like any business, the appliances that keep your products safe, and your ambiance comfortable can malfunction. When a broken water heater or dishwater in your deli department causes an indoor flood, we can help get you back to business.

When water damages your commercial food preparation area, we follow or exceed the restoration industry’s best practices to get you back in business. Our managers and technicians master multiple mitigations and remediation specialties offered by the internationally-recognized Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Have confidence that our crew can resolve any issues safely and per local food-handling codes.

Because your deli is only a portion of your operations, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna teams create a recovery plan that permits the rest of the store to open and serve your customers as usual. We erect a containment perimeter around the affected space, using heavy-duty plastic sheeting and air scrubbing technology to seal off the damage and filter and vent any airborne contaminants.

Mold growth potential is always a concern with water damage, but avoiding microbial activity is paramount in a food handling space. Our deadline for water removal and drying is 24 to 48 hours, and we hit that mark with our skilled team and cutting edge equipment. Pumps and high-efficiency water extractors rid the department of excess water. SERVPRO also uses thermal imaging and moisture detectors to find, follow, and remove any water migration behind structures.

Once the water evacuates, we use cleaning and disinfecting products registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and approved by local licensing agents for food prep surfaces. After cleaning and sanitizing, we determine drying goals and set up a drying configuration. High-speed air movers and heaters encourage the transfer of water absorbed by building materials into the air as vapor. Evaporative and desiccant dehumidifiers remove that vapor for disposal.   

One call to SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at (507)-200-3700 delivers a trained and certified workforce to your business to assist in recovery from a commercial water loss. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Candle Fire Risk

9/21/2020 (Permalink)

Fire Damage From Candle

Candle Safety

Candles may make a cozy feeling in your home this fall and winter, but they can also be a cause for home fires.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, 3 out of every 5 candle fires start when things that can burn are placed too close to the candle.  

Here are some tips that you should follow for candle safety:

• Blow out candles before leaving a room or going to bed
• Keep candles one foot away from anything that can burn
• Use a sturdy candle holder, that will not tip over easily
• Put candle holders on a sturdy and unclutter surface
• Light candles carefully, keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
• Keep candles out of reach from kids and pets
• Do not let the candle burn all the way to the bottom; put it out before it gets too close to the container or holder
• You should not light a candle if oxygen is used in the home
• During a power outage, use a flashlight or battery-operated lighting instead of a candle

Remember candles are an open flame which means they can easily ignite. Use a candle snuffer to extinguish a candle. It's the safest way to prevent hot wax from splattering. Never use water to extinguish a candle. Water can cause the hot wax to splatter and might break a glass container. Make sure the candle is completely out and the wick ember is no longer glowing before leaving the room.

Contact Us

If you have any additional questions about fire or smoke damage, please feel free to contact SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700.

Your Commitment to Clean in Education Facilities

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

CSC Program

Education workers are teaching and serving our children. Allow us to help protect what matters most.

SERVPRO is being called on by numerous businesses to perform the necessary services to clean, disinfect and sanitize their properties. All our cleanup practices are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities. Let us help your school or facility become safer for students and staff.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that goes beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning, it’s a higher standard of clean. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning that helps ensure the cleanliness of the restaurants, businesses and public spaces in the communities we all call home. With over 50 years of expertise, 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.

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry-leading and proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. 

The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s:

1. Consult
• A tailored cleaning program to meet YOUR needs
2. Clean
• Proactive and COVID-19 emergency response cleaning program
3. Certify
• A commitment to clean for your employees and students

Are you interested in a free quote for our CSC program? Contact us today and make safety in your educational facility a priority. 

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna 507-200-3700

Water Restoration Services to Schools in Mankato

9/15/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 507-200-3700

SERVPRO Offers Water Restoration Services to Schools in Mankato

For every one of the issues that could affect one of the schools in the Mankato area, one of the most devastating of these is a water emergency. With minimal warning, high volumes of water could impact a widespread area of the institution, forcing your school board to put a stoppage to regularly scheduled classes until the problem can get resolved.

Often, the emergencies requiring water removal that can threaten Mankato schools are present from natural disasters outside of the building that makes their way in, yet this could also present itself through concerns such as

• plumbing ruptures
• fire suppression malfunctions
• boiler system degradation

While there might not be many things that you can do to prevent these issues from happening (as they often occur with no warning or symptoms), you are not going to have to face the effects from the water on your own. Once our SERVPRO team has arrived at the school, we can assess how widespread the damage is and the appropriate course of actions it takes to restore the facility entirely.

While a lot of the construction materials used in modern schools are block and concrete, there are still multiple areas like ceilings, carpeted floors for offices, and areas like auditoriums that can get affected the worst by these traumatic events. The longer that pooled water can sit in these areas, the more damage that they can do to the layers of materials beneath the surface you can see.

Extraction of the water is only the beginning of the process, and the real heart of the restoration process rests in thoroughly drying all of the affected areas. This process provides the right opportunity to inspect for severely compromised structural components that could require replacement or reconstruction from a commercial contractor.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Water emergencies to a school can affect many families, employees, and students. Getting the issue resolved as quickly as possible is the top priority, and SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna can help you to accomplish this. Give us a call anytime you need us at 507-200-3700. 

Flood Zone Risks

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Flood Map MN

Flood Zone Risks

If you’re in the process of buying a house in Mankato or Owatonna, MN or you’re looking for a new home owners insurance policy, you might be familiar with what a flood zone is. If you don’t know what they are, you might want to start reading up on them.

Zoning for Floods?

A flood zone is an area in a specific geographical space that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has determined has at least some risk of flooding. There are four primary types of zones, which correlate to the severity or category of excessive water events that can occur in that area.

• Moderate to Low Risk Areas
• High Risk Areas
• High Risk – Coastal Areas
• Undetermined Risk Areas
  
  

How to Find Your Zone

Each area’s zones are depicted on a community's Flood Insurance Rate Map, also known as FIRM, which can be found online at https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance-rate-map-firm. You can also contact your local municipality or look on their website, most cities will have zoning information available online. You can try searching for the term “flood elevation certificate” for faster results.

Some people may think that these zones can only be found next to a large body of water or along a river or stream, but that’s not the case. Houses that are nowhere near a body of water can experience a flood if there’s a large rain storm.

Emergency Preparedness

Knowing what kind of flood zone you live in can also be helpful for storage options and emergency preparedness. If you live in a high-risk zone, for example, you probably don’t want to put boxes directly on the floor, and you might want to increase the number of your emergency supplies. Also, it is important to know your flooding coverage to understand make sure to ask when creating your storm damage insurance claim. Preparedness means knowing all the facts.

If you weren’t aware that your home is potentially at risk for a flood, and a storm causes water related damage, you should contact a storm damage specialist in your area to determine your best course of action and get the damage repaired as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is here to help through your storm damage claim, call 507-200-3700.

Commercial Property Restoration

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Building Fire

How a Mitigation Company Can Help Rebuild Your Business

When you’re facing fire damage in your business, it can be overwhelming to think about how to begin the rebuilding process. However, consulting a professional fire mitigation company can help to alleviate the destruction caused by the fire incident. If you’re ready to call for help and begin restoring your business, this guide gives you an overview of the mitigation process.

Assessing the Situation

When mitigation professionals arrive at your business, they assess the damage that your building has sustained in the aftermath of the fire. Some of the forms of damage that they inspect may include:

• Smoke damage
• Soot damage
• Water damage (from firefighting efforts)
• Mold from water damage post firefighting efforts

These types of harm may be present in addition to fire damage caused by direct contact with flames. Professionals can help you determine what the degree of destruction is in your business.

Protecting Against Additional Harm

Examining the extent of damage to your commercial building allows mitigation specialists to prevent further harm from taking place. If your building has any missing walls or windows, professionals can board up these surfaces. They may also place tarps on the roof if it has been damaged as well. Moreover, having your business protected from additional damage can help when an insurance adjuster visits to inspect the state of your building.

Cleaning 

Finally, fire mitigation professionals clean any damaged items in your building and work on restoring your business. The steps in this process depend on the extent of damage that you are experiencing. If there are any signs of water damage, restoration specialists can remove and dry excess water. Likewise, they may clean any surfaces in your building that contain traces of soot or smoke.

Mitigation professionals can improve the condition of your business. Be sure to call the specialists at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna immediately to help you reopen, no matter what type of water or fire damage you’re facing.

Mold in the Building?

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Growth Left Untreated

Mold in the Building? Take These Steps Immediately

You go about your business each day at work focused on the tasks at hand. You probably give little thought to issues such as mold cleanup and fungal growth. However, if you come across this concern, it could cause great alarm for you and everyone in your workplace. On the bright side, there are some effective actions you can take when you discover this nasty substance.

Don’t Delay

The second you discover mold spores in your building, take appropriate action. Don’t shrug it off or procrastinate. This could only make matters worse and result in bigger concerns. Here are some essential steps:

• Get in touch with the building manager.
• Take some pictures.
• Call a professional mold cleanup company.
• Contact your commercial building insurance company. 

Inform the Property Manager

It’s important that you speak with the building manager about the situation so he or she can take necessary steps to prevent further mold contamination. The building manager will apprise other tenants of the situation. 

Take Photos 

This is an important step when you speak with a cleanup team and with your insurance agent. You want to document the extent of the damage and what type of mold is present in your office. 

Call the Pros

This might be the most crucial step in the process. Call the experts at SERVPRO to talk you through the mold remediation process. Mold cleanup isn’t something you should handle on your own. There are trained, capable professionals who have the equipment to thoroughly dispose of the mold in your building. The team will also clean and sanitize the area so you can rest easy knowing all the mold is gone. 

Speak With the Insurance Provider 

Your insurance plan may have provisions where it covers mold and all cleanup and restoration efforts. Discuss your concerns with your insurance agent and ensure that you understand your policy completely. 

Quick action and mold cleanup is essential when you find mold at work. Get a professional crew from SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna on the job, 507-200-3700.

Garage Fire Damage

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Garage Fire Aftermath

Garage Fire Damage

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, each year there are approximately 6,600 garage fires in the United States. The cause of most of these fires is electrical malfunctions. There are often combustible items stored in the garage. The items to consider for flame proof storage or keeping in a shed away from the home would be the following:

• Oil
• Gasoline
• Paints
• Propane
• Varnishes 

How many of these items do you have in your garage?

Do you know if they are stored safely? It is also recommended to keep items that can burn on shelves away from appliances. Plug only one charging appliance into an outlet. Don’t use an extension cord when charging an appliance. 

The reason that garage fires can become such a large and dangerous disaster is that they are often cluttered. Most homes have some amount of stored items in their garage. 

Garage clutter is a safety hazard. Stacks of items and junk piled high in the garage may not be stable and will also be fuel to any fire. 

Other less common causes of garage fires are:

• Grilling inside garage
• Improperly disposed fireworks
• Failing to extinguish cigarettes fully

To avoid these causes going unnoticed, it is recommended to consider installing a smoke and heat detector in your garage. This creates a warning to something that may go otherwise unnoticed. If your garage is attached or detached from the home, the smell and smoke may not be quickly realized. These fires are fueled by chemicals and highly combustible materials, meaning it may easily travel to your home if not controlled. 

If your home experiences fire damage from a garage fire, call the experts in smoke and fire damage restoration at SERVPRO of Mankato /  Owatonna for help. Faster to any size disaster, we come equipped to help after a fire loss at your home. Call 507-200-3700.

Links

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/garage_fires.html

https://www.SERVPROmankatoowatonna.com/fire-smoke-damage-restoration

What to do After a Storm

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Once a large storm has passed, it is a good idea to check for damage to your property. Doing so immediately following a storm can help reduce damage that would have otherwise worsened over time. Keep safety in mind first and pay attention to any potential hazards such as broken glass, the smell of gas, and electrocution hazards. If it is safe to move around your property, consider photographing the damage for insurance purposes. Once you have identified and photographed all damaged areas, contact your insurance agent. If the storm was large enough to be considered a disaster area, you may want to look into federal disaster assistance. Go to disasterassistance.gov to see if your area has been declared for individual assistance.

For more tips on what to do after a storm has caused water damage, visit https://www.SERVPROmankatoowatonna.com/water-damage-tips

Have a storm damage emergency? Call 507-200-3700

We are proud to serve our local communities: Mankato, North Mankato, Eagle Lake, New Richland, Amboy, Owatonna, Waseca, Mapleton, Ellendale, Pemberton, and more.

Back to School Fire Safety & Social Distancing

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Safety of students and staff should be put first in case of a fire.

Regardless of how the school day looks for your kids now, maintaining a healthy and safe environment should be a top priority. This includes continuing to conduct fire drills. In Minnesota, schools are required to hold five fire/evacuation drills, five lockdown drills, and one tornado drill per year. The current state of the world can make this difficult, but it is still possible and important! With all of the changes made in your school due to COVID-19, it is important that students and staff are familiar with theses changes and their expected course of action in emergencies.

Of course, there are concerns with conducting fire drills during a pandemic. The NFPA has addressed some of these concerns by offering alternatives to the standard fire drill: “Emergency egress training programs may be substituted on a one-for-one basis for as many as four of the required monthly emergency egress drills. The mixture of training programs and emergency egress drills might elicit student egress behavior that is superior to that instilled by drills alone.”

However your school chooses to conduct fire drills this year, remind your students that while social distancing is important, exiting the building quickly when a large fire occurs is even more important. 

Links:

https://community.nfpa.org/community/nfpa-today/blog/2020/08/07/building-and-life-safety-requirements-for-emergency-egress-drills

https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=1

https://www.blr.com/Workplace-Safety/Emergency-Planning-and-Response/Fire-Prevention-in-Minnesota#:~:text=School%20drills.,035).

Storm Sump Pump Failure

8/13/2020 (Permalink)

Basement Sump Pump

The job of a sump pump is to keep a basement from flooding. However, basements are most likely to flood during storms. Homeowners count on the silo pump to direct the water away from the foundation and from entering the basement. During a storm, power outages are common. This can cause the sump pump to be unable to do its job.

With a pump that is dormant and groundwater levels are rising, water will start to seep up into the basement. The water that comes into the house from this kind of failure will contain soft solids. This would be things such as mud, plant matter, or sand. With grey water there is bacteria present. 

If there is a power outage during a storm and your sump pump has failed, you would be unable to use a wet/dry vacuum to help mitigate the water damage. In this case, call a water removal specialist, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, are the experts in water extraction and drying. You may lay down towels and move any moisture-sensitive items such as furniture, antiques, documents, photos, draper, rugs or clothing. Water on these items for extended periods can cause damage and mold growth in as little as 48 hours.

It is important to make sure you have an adequately sized pump and a properly installed battery or gas generator back up. If you find yourself with water damage from sump pump failure during a storm power outage, call on SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700 to help you get your basement back. 

Link: https://www.ajperri.com/blog/what-to-do-if-your-sump-pump-quits-during-a-storm

Committee Against Domestic Abuse Donations

8/8/2020 (Permalink)

Donations for the Committee Against Domestic Abuse

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is dedicated to helping those in our community who need it the most. In July 2020, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna fundraised to bring necessities to the Committee Against Domestic Abuse (CADA). In 2019 CADA in Mankato helped to service 2,249 individuals.

CADA's mission is to "provide safety and support to victims of domestic and sexual violence through education, advocacy, and shelter. CADA is a nonprofit victim advocacy and emergency shelter organization based in Mankato, Minnesota. CADA serves an eight county region including, Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Le Sueur, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca, and Watonwan Counties. We are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide free and confidential services to all victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence."

We were able to donate the following items: paper towels, disinfecting spray, disinfecting wipes, nitrile gloves, and homemade masks. We were also able to raise money donated directly to CADA through our Facebook page, totaling $70. 

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is known for being “faster to any size disaster,” but we are also known for our willingness to jump on board and help a worthy cause in our community. We are also currently donating bags that contain items to help families after a fire loss to our local Fire Departments and donations to local schools with fire safety information. We are always looking for an opportunity to support a cause or individuals who can use our help. Please reach out to SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna  if you or your organization is looking for volunteer or donation opportunities at 507-200-3700. 

Links:

https://www.cadamn.org/

Water Damage Timeline

7/26/2020 (Permalink)

Water extraction from flooring

After a water loss, water begins to spread and creep until stopped. Often times homeowners try to care for water losses on their own. No matter how big or small, water damage becomes worse with time if not properly extracted and dried. SERVPRO understands and tries to educate customers on the timeline of water damage. The negative effects of water damage increase quickly over time. Read below to find out how water can cause compounding complications over time:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, baseboards, upholstery, curtains and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears indicating the beginning of mold and mildew growth.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may start grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister and peel.
• Wood flooring swells, lifts and warps.
• Serious bio-hazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and bio-hazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

If you experience water loss, consider the damages that may occur if you do not have professional help. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is prepared, day or night, to respond to water losses quickly and reduce the damages. We focus on saving your property and possessions rather than replacing. Call us at 507-200-3700 after your water loss. 

Water Damage Sources

7/26/2020 (Permalink)

Toilet Leak

Most building materials when exposed to water for a long period of time will incur damage. They can degrade, rot and develop mold. All of which can make for a need for cleanup and restoration services.

There are several places water damage can be found. Often, home and business owners are not aware of the existing water damage. The first place is the wall beneath a window. Rain can sneak in between the window and the jamb all the way down into the studs. With time, leaks like these can rot wall studs and wood framing.

Beneath the dishwasher is a place most homeowners never look. However, leaks in the joints of the water supply line can cause slow leaks that you would never notice. This kind of leak can cause serious damage to subfloors. You may never even notice this kind of leak or damage until it is being moved or replaced. All of this stands true for washing machines and refrigerators as well.

In the bathroom, where water is abundant, many types of leaks and water damage can be present. Overflowed tubs, even if it only happens once, can cause damage to walls and floors. Toilets overflowing or even having a loose connection between the base and the drainpipe can accumulate water.

HVAC units collect condensed water in a shallow pan. That water then is drained into a floor drain. This can become clogged as it accumulates and overflows. This can also create mold, with standing water, that will need remediation.

These types of insidious water damage are often found once it has caused a problem beyond the source. Luckily, the professionals of SERVPRO® are equipped to locate, assess, dry and restore. They are also professionals in mold remediation and can take care of the mold that inevitably comes with water damage. Call the experts at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna for help, at 507-200-3700. Faster to any size disaster.

https://www.bobvila.com/slideshow/15-places-water-damage-may-be-hiding-in-your-home-52971#water-damage-under-window

Testimonial Tuesday

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Facebook Testimonial

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna strives to deliver high quality work and we love to get positive feedback and even handwritten letters from our happy customers.

Here are testimonials from real customers:

Taylor Tompkins

“They are a very helpful and thorough company. You definitely want them to help you with your home when you have a crisis! Very hard working people.”

Tabitha Flann

“Great team with professional service. If you are ever unfortunate to find yourself with water or fire damage make them your first call.”

Sara Schultz

“The service was outstanding! Ken always kept us updated with the process and ensured everything was dried appropriately... which even meant he came out on the weekend!

With the weekend work we can continue our process and hopefully have our basement back to normal within a week/week and a half of the incident!”

Carley Kempe

“I called SERVPRO because my basement flooded.  I was a mess as I had just installed new carpet!  They were so polite and so helpful and were very quick to respond!  They came out and were very knowledgeable and actually informed me that the problem was my sump pump!  They were very professional, even dressed professionally!  Their equipment was clean and they even wore protective wear on their feet which was very important as I said my carpet was new!  They got my basement all dried and cleaned up and to my surprise there isn’t even any smell!  Hands down the best company I have ever dealt with, I will definitely be referring to them and calling them again if I ever need!  Thanks again Ken for all your help, I really appreciate it!”

Turning what could be someone’s worst day into a positive outcome and hearing how we helped ease the stress makes us proud. From a basement leak to a full fire restoration job, we are here to help and keep our home and business owners in the loop until our job is done. As a family owned location, this is more than a job, this is caring for our customers beginning to end. For fire & water cleanup and restoration, call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-217-6547. Faster to any size disaster. 

Le Center, MN Storms and Record Rainfall

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna Fleet on Scene at Storm Response in Le Center, MN

Over 18 hours of thunderstorms led to heavy rains and scattered flash-flooding across southern Minnesota on June 29th, 2020. 

Thunderstorms began developing around 3 PM slowly expanding and increasing in intensity through the afternoon. Thunderstorms also developed along the warm front in southern Minnesota.

Brown and northern Watonwan Counties, northeastward through Mankato, Northfield, Cannon Falls, Red Wing, and the southeastern half of the Twin Cities area. Here, precipitation totals of 2-4 inches were common, with isolated areas receiving 5-8 inches of rain by Monday morning. 4.55 inches in St. Peter, 5.40 inches near Burnsville, 4.80 inches in Woodbury, 5.54 inches near Cannon Falls, and 6.13 inches between Hastings and Miesville. 

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna reported to a water loss in Le Center Minnesota during this storm. Le Center received over 2.5" of rain, and FAST. Once the green team of SERVPRO vehicles pulled up, the neighborhood noticed who was onsite to help. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna ended up responding to SEVEN calls in one neighborhood, thanks to word of mouth, and those bright green trucks! Being able to help a community of neighbors all affected by disaster, is what makes us proud to be a part of the SERVPRO team.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is faster to any size disaster and is ready to help wherever, and whenever, they are needed. Call 507-200-3700 after a storm leaves you mopping up a mess, to have our professionals at your home or business fast. Think of SERVPRO during this storm season. This rainfall wasn't the first, and wont be the last!

Commercial Water Damage

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

water damage in apartment hallway

Commercial water damage

With many tenants, guests, or offices in commercial buildings, it often means more opportunities for water damage. The causes of water damage can include damaged windows, roof leaks, damaged pipes, sewer clogs, HVAC leaks, and sprinkler system leaks. A tub overflow in one apartment can soak several more, a pipe leak in one office could affect all departments and a window left open in one hotel room could cause mold growth from water damage. These incidents are common.  Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. When commercial water damage happens, it can bring a lot of stress to a lot of people, and quickly. Water damage in commercial buildings is a serious problem that should be addressed as soon as possible to begin mitigation and drying. That's why SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is ready to be faster to any size disaster. Commercial water damage presents unique challenges. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna provides the following to commercial water losses:

• Water Damage Cleanup 
• Carpet Extraction
• Applied Structural Drying
• Odor Control
• Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning 
• Mold Remediation

Whether it’s discontented tenants, guests, or employees, let us help clean up and dry your business to get everyone back to work, staying or living comfortably. 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 Thankfully, water damage can be less disruptive if you have an Emergency Ready Plan, an insurance plan that covers flood damage, and conducting regular property inspection and facility maintenance and best of all, having the experts at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna on speed dial at 507-200-3700. If you see signs of water damage in your commercial property, call the professionals right away. 

Why Choose Dry Ice Blasting?

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna, we value knowledge and expertise in many cleanup and restoration techniques. The newest technology we are now offering is Dry Ice Blasting. This is a non-abrasive, non-conducive, non-toxic, and non-flammable cleaning method. It is used as an environmentally friendly way to remove surface dirt, soot or contaminates as it is an approved media by the EPA, FDA and USDA. It easily dislodges the contaminates and is simply swept away or vacuumed up. There is no drying time after use either. This process can be used in cleaning food processing equipment, mold, smoke, fire or water damage, medical devices and other wood or metal production equipment. Dry ice is colorless, tasteless, odorless, waterless, and non-toxic and therefore never compromising taste, quality, or safety. It is even safe for electrical and plumbing fixtures. 

How does it work?

Dry ice blasting involves propelling pellets at extremely high speeds. The actual dry ice pellets are quite soft, and much less dense than other media used in blast-cleaning (i.e. sand or plastic pellets). Upon impact, the pellet sublimates almost immediately, transferring minimal kinetic energy to the surface on impact and producing minimal abrasion. The sublimation process absorbs a large volume of heat from the surface, producing shear stresses due to thermal shock.  This is assumed to improve cleaning as the top layer of dirt or contaminant is expected to transfer more heat than the underlying substrate and flake off more easily. The efficiency and effectiveness of this process depends on the thermal conductivity of the substrate and contaminant. The rapid change in state from solid to gas also causes microscopic shock waves, which are also thought to assist in removing the contaminant. (Wikipedia)

Benefits of Dry Ice Blasting

• No Water
• No Grit
• No Chemicals
• Non-conducive (safe around electrical connections)
• Reduces downtime for maintenance
• Ecologically friendly
• Saves money, time, labor, and materials
• No exposure to corrosive solvents
• Eliminates secondary waste
• Cleans without etching or damaging surfaces
• NO damage to sensitive machinery
• NO drying time

 Call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at (507)-200-3700 to find out if this is the solution for you.

Links:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry-ice_blasting

https://www.dryiceworks.com/blog/The-5-Most-Common-Questions-About-Dry-Ice-Blast-Cleaning_AE11.html

Key Things to Look for as Businesses Reopen

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

Aside from making sure the businesses you patron are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, there are a few other things to look for when evaluating if the property is safe for you and your family.

1.  Look for “signs” of clean.

When you first walk into a building, you should immediately take inventory of whether the space has been cleaned recently. A clean space should be free of visible dirt and trash. Fingerprints on doors and windows and stains on countertops and tables may indicate a relaxed attitude towards cleaning. High-touch surfaces should be disinfected regularly. Oftentimes, you can smell a freshly cleaned facility. Standalone sanitation stations are a good sign that preventing the spread of germs is a priority. You may notice physical signage stating when the space was last cleaned, who is servicing the facility, or details of a regular cleaning regimen. Many businesses are also hanging signage to remind guests and employees of proper social distancing standards.

2.  What adjustments have staff made?

Everyone has a responsibility to stop the spread of the coronavirus. The staff of retail businesses, restaurants, or community centers should be properly trained in CDC-approved cleaning methods. If employees are not using proper techniques or products, it might be because of a lack of proper training. Likewise, look for staff who are wearing gloves and masks and who are practicing safe distancing when interacting with customers. It is obvious when the business is not protecting its employees. People should come before profits.

3.  What adjustments has the business made to the physical space?

Many businesses and facilities have made physical changes to their buildings to help reduce the risk of spreading illness. The business may adjust the traffic flow of patrons to prevent congested areas. Contactless points-of-sale are becoming more common, and many businesses are constructing barriers between employees and guests. Some are even adding markers on floors to indicate safe distances. One good way to help prevent the spread of infection is to reduce the

number of touch points, such as propping doors open and opening windows to increase airflow. Some businesses are going a step further and reducing the number of guests allowed inside the space at one time.

4. Does it look like “business as usual?”

In the same way that the country changed following 9/11, what we once knew as “normal” may change forever. If a facility is still operating in the way it did before the coronavirus pandemic, there is a good chance the managers or staff are not taking the illness seriously and are not prioritizing the health of their employees and guests. Many have reduced their hours of operation or offered times when they are open only for at-risk individuals, such as senior citizens or those who are immunocompromised. Before stepping out of your door, check the company’s social media pages or their website for communications about their hours and the steps they are taking to protect patrons. These locations should be following federal, state, and local mandates regarding safety.

Last-Minute Severe Storm Preparations

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

When severe storms and tornadoes hit southern Minnesota, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is here to help.

Preparation is key to keeping your family and your home safe during emergencies and disasters. However, if you have not yet prepared for an incoming severe storm or tornado, all hope is not lost. There are a few preparations you can still do a few hours before the storm hits. It is important to keep safety in mind first and stop preparations to find shelter as the storm approaches your area.

1. Designate a safe room and make sure to place essential items inside. If you do not already have a designated safe room containing an emergency kit, make sure to at least grab food, water, a flashlight, and first aid supplies and head to a room without windows.
2. Remove tree limbs and outdoor items. Even small items laying around in your yard can cause damage when traveling at high speeds. Bring everything inside that you can.
3. Secure fences and outdoor furniture. Make sure the chance of flying furniture is at a minimum by tying down furniture and bringing in what you can.
4. Check gutters. Make sure your downspouts are facing away from your home and clear your gutters of any debris.
5. Protect valuables. Move valuable items such as a passport or insurance policy to a water-proof bag/container.

Make sure to also consider any specific needs your family has. It is also important to keep the entire household updated on the location of your safe room and any other emergency plans you have.

If a severe storm or tornado affects your home this year, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is ready to respond immediately. Give us a call right away at 507-200-3700 so we can quickly begin board up and restoration services to prevent further damage and loss.

SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO has dedicated teams specialized in fast response to natural disasters?

SERVPRO’s Disaster Recovery Team is composed of the best of the best in restoration. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is proud to a part of the elite group of specialists who help to large losses and catastrophic events. From the Polar Vortex to Hurricane Harvey, no disaster is too big.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are uniquely positioned to efficiently respond to any catastrophic storm or event nationwide. With over 1,700 franchises strategically positioned across the nation, we are faster to any size disaster. No matter the event; tornado, hurricane, blizzard, or flood, we are available 24 hours a day 365 days a year. Immediate action is crucial as it limits further damage and reduces cost.

Our team is equipped to rapidly respond, board up, and promptly begin mitigation. As an IICRC certified firm, our crew members receive extensive training. They are not only trained and certified in restoration techniques, but also with our advanced technology, equipment, and cleaning products. Our elevated equipment has drastically impacted and improved industry standards.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna’s certifications include:

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
• OSHA - Other Training
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• RRT - Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

Avoid Kitchen Fires in Mankato and Owatonna

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience a kitchen fire in Mankato or Owatonna, our team is ready to respond quickly. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna 507-200-3700

Two out of every five home fires start in the kitchen while food is cooking. Aside from being damaging, they also account for 15% of home fire deaths and 38% of home fire injuries. Kitchen fires usually occur when heat, electricity, water, and grease meet. Grease fires being the most common type of kitchen fires. Unattended pots, pans, burners, and ovens can all lead to starting a fire in the kitchen. Use a timer to keep yourself checking heat sources and staying nearby the stove when things are getting hot! Keep flammable towels, mitts, wooden utensils, and curtains away from any heat sources. Try to keep distractions to a minimum, such as children and pets, who could also be a tripping risk. Be on alert and stay in the kitchen while cooking to monitor cooking and stay aware of possible hazards.

If you do find yourself facing a kitchen fire, what should you do?

1. DO NOT pour water on a grease fire, this will only further ignite it. Place a lit over a small grease fire to smother it.

2. If it is too large, get out and close the door behind you to slow the spread.

3. Call 9-1-1.

4. Stay outside and follow fire department instructions.

5. Contact SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna and your insurance agent.

The US fire departments respond to 173,200 cooking related home fires a year. 53% of those hurt in these fires were trying to fight the fire themselves. Stay alert, cook with cation, and when in doubt if you can fight the fire, just get out!

***

Links:

https://nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/cookingsafety.pdf

https://nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Cooking

Grilling & Campfire Summer Safety

6/3/2020 (Permalink)

Keep safety in mind this summer to avoid fires.

June and July are the peak months for grill fires at 15% and 18% respectively. The origin points for these fires stem mostly from grills that have not been cleaned and leaks from gas grills. Seven out of every 10 households have a grill or smoker! That means lots of yummy meals, but also an increased number of fires each grilling season.

Here are some tips to keep you and your home safe this season.

• Only use outside away from railings and out from under awnings.
• Keep grill and trays clean of build-up from grease and fat.
• Keep lighter fluid away from children.
• Never leave grill unattended.

Keep up with regular cleaning and give your grill full attention to make sure your backyard cookout this summer is safe and fun!

Along with grilling, roasting s'mores over a campfire is a summer staple. However, campfire accidents send thousands of people to emergency rooms with burns every year! 90% of wildfires in the United States are caused by people, according to the U.S. Department of Interior. Many human-caused fires result from campfires left unattended.

Follow these simple guidelines to keep yourself, structures, and the forests safe from harm this summer.

• Attend to the campfire at all times and keep small. A campfire left alone for only a few minutes can grow into a damaging fire.
• Keep water on hand in order to douse if fire becomes too large or before leaving the site of the fire.
• Keep campfires 25 feet away from buildings and structures.
• Clear all dry leaves and overhanging, low branches.

If sing-a-longs, stories, and s'mores are on your agenda this summer, keep these tips in mind and toast those marshmallows responsibly.

***

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Seasonal-fire-causes/Grilling

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/Canada/CanadaCampFireSafety.ashx

Emergency Board Up Services Can Help Save Your Home

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Emergency Board Up Services after Storms in Mankato - SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna

Storms can bring extensive damage to your Mankato home. There may be damage to your roof, windows, doors, and more. When this happens, water, animals, and debris can easily enter your home and worsen the problem. Emergency board up services stop these things from continuing to enter the home. Our professional crews use approved board up techniques to minimize further damage and secure your property and protect the building from weather, animals, and illegal entry.

If a storm has affected your home, it is important to contact a professional and keep safety as your top concern. Falling trees, fire, high wind, and hailstorms often cause roof damage. Initial roof assessment should be completed from the ground as damage is not always visible. In the event of major roof damage, vacate the premises. While the roof is being inspected and repaired by a professional, tarping it will prevent secondary damage. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna will provide emergency roof tarp placement to prevent further damage. When disaster strikes, our team is ready to respond immediately with your roof tarping, board up, and restoration needs.

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 of Mankato / Owatonna can handle any size disaster. During catastrophic storms and major events, SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team can respond quickly with additional resources.

Need Emergency Board Up Services?

Call Us Today 507-200-3700

Water Damage Doesn't Wait!

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna can safely restore your home after water damage, flooding, or mold.

Water damage and mold don't wait for tough times to pass. If water damage strikes your home during this coronavirus pandemic, you may be incredibly stressed and not sure what to do. If you find yourself in this situation, it is important to keep safety top of mind. Do not enter any room with electrical damage, structural damage, or contaminated water. With keeping safety in mind, you may be wondering if your water damage restoration company is taking the necessary precautions when entering your home.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is doing everything we can to ensure the safety of our customers. Our team members follow these preventative safety measures:

• Greeting customers from a safe distance and refraining from shaking hands.
• Frequently washing hands and using hand sanitizer.
• Keeping a safe distance from customers.
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
• Utilizing shoe covers, face masks, and appropriate PPE.
• Providing information to help you and your family keep safe.
• Answering any and all questions regarding proper cleaning and disinfecting.

We are here to help, so please let us know if there are any special precautions you would like us to take prior to restoring your home. Contacting our team when water damage, flooding, or mold strikes can help keep your family safe and your stress levels lowered.

Give us a call at any time to discuss your needs. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna - 507-200-3700

Keeping your Home Safe

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure to clean these areas regularly!

In this unprecedented time, community members are recognizing the importance of a daily cleaning routine. In accordance with the CDC, SERVPRO recommends the daily cleaning of the following items:

• Keyboards
• Phones & Tablets
• Tables & Counters
• Door Knobs
• Light Switches
• Toilets
• Bathroom Fixtures

Keep in mind that while general surface cleaning can lower the number of germs, it does not kill them. By cleaning, sanitizing, AND disinfecting, you are further lowering the risk of spreading infection.

General Surface Cleaning: Physically removes microbes if possible, rather than killing them with a sanitizer or disinfectant.

Sanitizing: To be a registered sanitizer, test results must show a reduction of at least 99.9% in bacteria.

Disinfecting: Destroys or irreversibly inactivates microbes, but not necessarily the spores of bacteria and fungi.

It is also important to remember to wear disposable gloves when cleaning, disinfecting, and even handling laundry. Be sure to wash your hands after cleaning as well as washing them regularly. If someone in your household is sick, it is especially important to safely clean and disinfect your home. Find more information here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fprepare%2Fcleaning-disinfection.html

SERVPRO franchise professionals are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. 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.

Keeping your Workplace Safe

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

If your business is still operating during this unprecedented time, encourage your employees to...

Practice Good Hygiene

• Stop shaking hands - use other noncontact methods of greeting
• Clean hands with sanitizer or wash their hands frequently
• Avoid touching their faces and cover coughs and sneezes
• Disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, tables, desks, and handrails regularly
• Increase ventilation by opening windows or adjusting air conditioning

Be Careful with Meetings and Travel

• Use videoconferencing for meetings when possible
• When not possible, hold meetings in open, well-ventilated spaces
• Consider adjusting or postponing large meetings or gatherings
• Assess the risks of business travel

Handle Foods Carefully

• Limit sharing food with others
• Strengthen health screenings for cafeteria staff and their close contacts
• Ensure cafeteria staff and their close contacts practice strict hygiene

Stay Home if...

• They are feeling sick
• They have a sick family member in their home

SERVPRO is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect, and sanitize their properties. SERVPRO uses EPA approved products and follows the CDC guidelines for cleanup practices. If you are interested in inquiring about our services we're here to help - 24 hours a day, seven days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home. Give us a call at 507-200-3700.

We are Cleaning Experts

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna, 507-200-3700

Flood Prevention Tips for Your Mankato Business

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna can help your business prepare for flooding.

Flood Tips from SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna:

• Determine if your property is in a floodplain. For businesses in Mankato, it's a good idea to view river levels frequently.
• In an emergency, listen to the instructions given by local emergency management officials.
• Assess how your company functions, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are necessary to keep the business operating.
• Plan what you will do if your property is not accessible. This type of planning is often referred to as a continuuity of operations plan, or COOP, and includes all facets of your business.
• Plan for payroll continuity.
• Contact SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna to start developing your Emergency Ready Profile. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.
• Review your emergency plans with SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna annually. Just as your business changes over time, so do your preparedness needs. When you hire new employees or when there are changes in how your company functions, you should update your plans and inform your people.

Flooded Homes and Mold

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Mold and water damage problems? Call 507-200-3700

If your home has been affected by flooding, be on the look out for mold growth. Mold growth can begin and spread rapidly when water is present. Carpet, drywall, insulation, padding, and upholstery that have been water-damaged or exposed to flood waters are at the greatest risk of mold growth. The longer these items and porous materials stay wet, the more at risk your home is for developing severe mold problems. Contacting a professional to extract water and dry your property is an important step in preventing mold after flooding. If the flood water was contaminated with sewage or other wastewater or mold growth has already begun, it is especially important to call for help as soon as possible. The safety and health of you and your family should be top of mind when dealing with flooding, water damage, and mold.

Flooded basements are a common occurrence in Mankato each spring. Don't let your basement flood turn into a mold problem; call SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna at 507-200-3700 right away!

Winter Storms & Your Business

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Stay informed during severe winter weather.

Preparing for severe winter weather may seem like second nature if you’ve been living in Minnesota for most of your life, but there are still some things that can be overlooked each year. It’s a good idea to review tips and reminders every once in a while. Check out some of our tips on preparing for and staying safe during winter storms.

Communicate early and often.

Make sure your employees and customers are aware of incoming winter storms and what they should be prepared for. The earlier you can inform everyone of potential hazards and closings, the better. If your business will be closing during a winter storm for the safety of employees and customers, communicate this through several channels. Post on your Facebook, Google My Business, and anywhere else your customers look for updates from you. As the storm continues, so should your communication with everyone involved. It is also a good idea to have a plan for the customers that have not been informed and may still attempt to visit your business during a storm.

Have emergency materials ready.

If employees or customers are in your building during a winter storm, it is important to have a back-up heating source, emergency power, and supplies. Make sure your employees know where emergency materials are located and how to use them. In addition to survival materials (food, water, blankets, flashlights, first aid kit, etc.), your emergency kit should also include supplies to aid in getting out of the building once it is safe to do so (shovel, ice melt, sandbags, etc.).

Have an emergency plan for each possible threat.

Be prepared for power outages, fires, carbon monoxide, flooding, and any other disasters that may come your way during a winter storm. Have all relevant information in a central location that employees are aware of. Include information in your plan such as avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning when using backup power supplies. Your emergency plans should be thorough yet concise. If you aren’t sure how to create or update your emergency plans, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is always Here to Help. Our team can help you develop an Emergency Ready Profile for free, as well as providing access to our Ready Plan app that allows you to access your plan at your fingertips wherever you are.

Winter Storms, Frozen Pipes, & Ice Dams Cause Water Damage

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage from frozen pipes in Mankato, MN

Cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your Mankato, Owatonna, or Waseca property. Since water damage from frozen pipes and ice dams are a common occurrence here, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is ready to restore your home or business 24/7 this winter.

Extreme cold weather like we see each year in Minnesota can cause pipes to freeze and burst. The water damage resulting from this can be extensive and severe. 

Ice dams can also cause extensive water damage by preventing water from draining off of your roof. The standing water can back up under shingles and leak into your home or business.

When winter weather wreaks havoc on your home, causing water damage or mold, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is Here to Help. Our team has the resources and training to handle whatever winter storms and disasters affect our local community members. With a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country, we have the capability to respond Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Water Cleanup & Restoration in Mankato and Owatonna

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Mankato, MN

Water damage and flooding can affect your Mankato home or business at any time without warning. When it does, immediate action is crucial, which is why SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is here to help 24/7 with your water damage or flooding emergency.

Our local and dedicated technicians arrive quickly to begin water extraction and drying right away. Throughout the process, everything is closely monitored and documented to ensure proper drying. We know how stressful water damage situations can be, and we are here to help throughout the entire process. 

We have helped countless community members in Mankato and Owatonna with their water damage needs and we would love to help you as well. We offer free estimates and work with your insurance for a stress-free claims process. Our goal is to make your water damage disaster "Like it never even happened" in the most convenient, caring, and cost effective way possible.

Check out our Water Damage Emergency Tips if you've recently experienced a water damage, and visit https://www.SERVPROmankatoowatonna.com/water-damage-restoration for more information on water damage repair and restoration provided by SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna, or give us a call at 507-200-3700.

Ice Dams in Mankato and Owatonna

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Place a fan to slow leaks and minimize water damage from ice dams.

Last winter many of our community members witnessed firsthand the damage that ice dams cause. Because of this, folks have been asking us for advice on preventing or minimizing damage caused by ice dams this year. 

Ice dams are caused by warm air escaping into your attic and heating up your roof, so one of the best things you can do to prevent ice dams from forming is adding insulation between your home and your attic. If there is no heat to melt the snow atop your roof, it will not refreeze and create an ice dam as it reaches your gutters. Another way to prevent this is by raking the snow off of your roof. If you choose to do this, ensure you have a proper roof rake that will not damage your shingles, and make sure to keep safety in mind. Be mindful as the snow and ice falls from your roof, and always stay on the ground when removing snow from your roof.

Preparing for ice dams and continually working towards keeping them off of your home is always best, but we all know that the snow here can sometimes pile up faster than you can say "oof-da." If you find yourself suddenly having water damage from ice dams, the first thing you should do is call SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna at 507-200-3700. As you wait for help to arrive, removing wet materials from the affected area and placing fans to slow leaks can help minimize damage and possibly save you money if you are not using insurance (most homeowners insurance will cover water damage caused by ice dams). One other trick you can try is to fill a sock with ice melt and place it on the ice dam to melt a passage that will allow the water to drain off of your roof. Use this trick instead of putting rock salt or ice melt directly on your roof as this can cause damage to your shingles.

Is Your Business Winter Weather Ready?

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Start your own Emergency Ready Profile today!

We all know about the crazy amount of snow we receive here in Minnesota. When Mr. Snow Miser comes knocking, it's not a surprise visit and we know he's here to stay. Some of us love it and some of us hate it, but we all have to prepare for it each year. It may not be fun, but it must be done!

Even though most of us know how to prepare for a Minnesota winter, it's a good idea to review some tips to make sure nothing is overlooked.

• Check your property for downed tree limbs and branches.
• Inspect roofs, water pipes, and gutters.
• Direct gutter downspouts away from your building.
• Leave the heat set to at least 55° F when your business is closed on weekends and holidays.
• Allow water to drip when temperatures are below freezing.

Our last (and best!) tip is to complete an Emergency Ready Profile with SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna.

The weather outside is frightful, but our Emergency Ready Profile is so delightful! It's free, and helps you better prepare for our harsh Minnesota weather! Call today to create your Emergency Ready Profile, before the snow gets too deep! 507-200-3700

Winter Holiday Fire Safety

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Avoid fires this holiday season.

The top three days for home candle fires are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve. 

The holiday seasons brings happiness and joy, but also fire hazards. Here are some tips on avoiding a home fire this holiday season.

• Choose decorations that are flame resistant.
• Keep burning candles away from decorations and Christmas trees.
• Do not use any decorations or lights with frayed electrical cords.
• Test your smoke alarms and have a fire escape plan.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking with the stove or oven.
• Place all decorations at least three feet away from heat sources.
• Recognize which lights are intended for indoor or outdoor use.
• Turn off holiday lights and extinguish all candles before leaving or going to sleep.

Reviewing these simple tips each year can prevent a major disaster and help keep your holidays merry and bright.

If the unfortunate does occur and you experience a fire this holiday season, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is ready to help 24/7. Call us at 507-200-3700.

Who should I call for fire and smoke damage restoration?

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

Home fire in St, James, MN.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna, your local fire damage restoration company, is Here to Help after smoke and fire damage affect your home or business.

Fire damages can be devastating to any home or business. Our team of experts is here to guide you through this crisis after the fire. Whatever questions or concerns you may have, our team has the knowledge and experience to address them. We are more than just a fire restoration company, we are a people company. We care about the property we are restoring but also the people living or working inside of it. That is why safety is our first priority, and helping make it "Like it never even happened" in every way we can is our second.

Our crew also has state-of-the-art equipment to clean up and restore your belongings as well as your property. Precious keepsakes and photos can be impossible to replace, so we always strive to restore rather than replace. Not only does this save your belongings, but it saves you money on items and furniture you otherwise would have had to replace.

If fire damage or smoke damage have caused damage to your home or business, call the cleanup crew that cares - SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna at 507-200-3700

Tips for a Fire-Free Feast this Thanksgiving

11/11/2019 (Permalink)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries. With Thanksgiving feasts and all of the cooking involved with the holiday, it is no wonder why Thanksgiving is a peak day for fire emergencies. Keep yourself and your family safe this holiday season by following these simple safety tips:

• Never leave cooking food or unattended.
• Keep small children at least three feet away from the stove and oven.
• Keep flammable items away from kitchen appliances that generate heat.
• Clean cooking surfaces regularly.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
• Make sure all kitchen appliances are turned off before leaving your home or going to bed.
• Check the batteries in your smoke alarms (especially the one in your kitchen!)

If the unfortunate does occur and you experience a home fire this holiday season, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is here to help. Our team of local, caring professionals can help make it "Like it never even happened" quickly so you can continue to enjoy this holiday season.

Stay safe, Mankato, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Who should I call for water damage repair?

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

Water extraction in Owatonna after a line to the ice maker in their freezer broke.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna, your local water damage repair company, is here to help after you've experienced water damage in your home or business.

If your home or business has suffered from water damage due to broken pipes, ice dams, or refrigerator lines like the home in this photo, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna will be there fast to extract the water and remediate the damage.

Prompt water remediation is especially important when water damage has affected hardwood flooring. Wood flooring in your kitchen can be costly and unfavorable to replace after water damage has warped it. Using an Injectidry system as shown in the photo, our team can restore and dry hardwood flooring to pre-water damage conditions.

When water damage affects your home or business, make sure you get the team with the experience and equipment to extract water and completely dry your home with validation and documentation. Call SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna at 507-200-3700.

Protect Your Home from Water Damage this Fall

10/25/2019 (Permalink)

Protect your home in Mankato and Owatonna.

As the seasons change in Mankato and Owatonna, so do water damage risks. During summer, flooding is a common risk. During winter, ice dams are a common risk. But what water damage risk does autumn present? One of the biggest problems fall can bring is leaves. Those gorgeous colorful leaves falling from our Minnesota trees end up clogging gutters and downspouts in countless homes and businesses. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts are a simple way to protect your home from water damage as the seasons change.

Preparing your home’s plumbing for colder weather can also help reduce risk of water damage. Fall is the time to fix any outdoor faucets that may be leaking before they freeze and cause water damage. Also make sure to disconnect and drain water hoses. This is also an important time of year to inspect your sump pump to make sure it is properly insulated and working.

A few other things you may want to consider this fall are your air conditioner condensate drain and sprinkler system. Underground sprinklers that are connected to the household water could cause a basement flood. An overall inspection of your home may also be beneficial to discover any repairs that need to be made before winter.

Black Mold in Ellendale, Eagle Lake, and Mapleton

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

Understanding mold in Ellendale and Eagle Lake

Most of us have heard stories about the dangers of “black mold” and the health effects they can cause. These stories can mislead people to believe that other types of mold are less dangerous, but this is not the case. All types of mold can cause produce allergy symptoms and other mold exposure symptoms. If you believe you have a mold problem, black mold or not, in North Mankato, Eagle Lake, New Richland, Mapleton, Amboy, Ellendale, or Pemberton, contact SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna right away.

Learn more about black mold at SERVPROmankatoowatonna.com/black-mold

When you’ve discovered mold in your home or business, it is also important to understand the difference between mold removal and mold remediation. Since microscopic mold spores exist naturally almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold. This is a fallacy. A qualified restoration company understands the science behind mold and mold growth. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have the training and expertise to remediate the mold in your home or business. Mold remediation focuses on getting mold levels back to normal, natural levels.

Learn more about mold removal versus mold remediation at SERVPROmankatoowatonna.com/mold-removal

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna understands mold and how to manage it. If you’re looking for a mold removal company, our team of experts are the mold remediation specialists you need. With extensive training and specialized equipment, our team is highly qualified to effectively manage your mold problem.

After the Fire

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

What to do after a fire in Mankato

If you’re like most people, you want things to go back to normal after a fire but might not know how to do so. The U.S. Fire Administration (FEMA) offers a guide for your next steps after a fire at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_46.pdf

This is a general guide, and you may need to consider other steps specific to your family and your needs. Fires can create an overwhelming to-do list, but SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is here to help guide you through the process. As fire and waters experts, we have seen many different scenarios and can offer assistance in ways that go above and beyond what you might expect from a fire restoration company. When you have questions or concerns during any part of the recovery process, our team has the insight and experience to answer your questions and guide you through this stressful time.

As stated by FEMA, “Anything you want to save or reuse will need to be carefully cleaned,” and this is where SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna typically comes in. We are here to help restore your home and your most important belongings with care. We care about the families that experience home fires and have a sincere drive towards making fire damage “Like it never even happened.”

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Mankato
• Owatonna
• North Mankato
• Waseca
• Eagle Lake
• Mapleton
• New Richland
• Ellendale
• Amboy
• Pemberton

What To Do After a Sewer Backup in Your Mankato Home

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Toilet overflows and sewer backups can pose serious health risks.

The water from sewage backups typically contains waste products that pose serious health risks. Viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illness can be found in flood waters of this category. Sewage water is considered Category 3 contaminated water. Category 3 is the most grossly contaminated water possible, referred to as “black water.” It is very dangerous and should be avoided. Examples of black water can include flooding from rivers or streams, water from toilet overflows, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth. Water contamination with sewage backup should be considered an immediate threat and an emergency situation that should be dealt with as quickly as possible.

The first thing you should do after a sewer backup occurs in your Mankato home is assess the safety of you and your family. Consider evacuating the home or at least the contaminated area. After considering safety first, contact a professional to determine the appropriate plan of action. The professionals at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna will safely inspect your home and help you put together a plan of action that works best for you and your family.

It is highly recommended that you do not try to mitigate this water damage on your own. Our team members wear specialized protective gear while handling these situations due to the health threats they pose. Without proper protective gear, you should never come in contact with contaminated water. No matter if your sewer backup or toilet overflow became a large flood or stayed relatively small and contained, it is still a potentially dangerous situation that should be taken seriously.

Donation Collection for Mending Spirits Animal Rescue Mankato

10/7/2019 (Permalink)

Collection jar and box at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna.

As fire and water specialists, we help people get back into their homes. Now, with your help, we want to get animals into safe homes as well.  Stop by our office at 1150 N River Dr in Mankato to drop off donations for Mending Spirits Animal Rescue.

Mending Spirits Animal Rescue is a non-profit volunteer foster based animal rescue in Mankato, MN. They rescue animals from various situations such as owner surrenders, puppy mills, animal impound, and high kill facilities. Before finding each pet their forever home, they place them into foster care with one of their dedicated volunteers. Their rescue is based solely on adoption fees and donations, so it is important that our community supports them so they are able to provide proper medical and emotional care.

Any donation will make a difference, but Mending Spirits has provided us with the following list of items they need most.

Supplies Needed:

4 Health Salmon and Potato Dog food (Tractor Supply Co.)

4 Health Puppy food (Tractor Supply Co.)

Taste of the Wild Puppy Food (Pet Expo/Menards/TSC)

Taste of the Wild Dog Food – yellow bag (Pet Expo/Menards/TSC)

4 Health all life stages cat food (Tractor Supply Co.)

Integrity clumping cat litter (Pet Expo)

Puppy potty pads

Martingale collars sizes small and medium

Collars with metal buckles for Max and Neo (small and medium)

Leashes

Toys

Bully sticks

Bones for dogs who like to chew

Cleaning Supplies:

Bleach

Paper towels

Hand sanitizer

Who should I call for flood damage restoration?

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is here to help when flooding impacts your life.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna, your local flood damage repair company, is here to help after you’ve experienced flooding or water damage in your home.

Whenever a storm, sewage backup, washing machine overflow, or sump pump failure cause flooding in your home, our highly trained team will be there fast.  

If you have experienced flooding and flood damage in your home, remember that safety should be top of mind. Flood waters can carry harmful materials and bacteria, so it is best to avoid it. You may be tempted to “DIY” your flood damage restoration, but this is not recommended due to the unknown factors in each unique situation. Our team utilizes protective gear and safety regulations because of these harmful things that could be lurking in the flood water. We also ensure that not only the water is removed, but also anything that could be unsafe or harmful to your family. Safety is our number one concern, and we hope it is yours as well! It is important that whatever flood damage restoration company you choose keeps safety in mind and aims to get your family back into a safe home as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is here to help when unsafe and unfavorable conditions make their way into your home. Our crew arrives quickly and helps you and your family return to normal and safe conditions while guiding you through this stressful time. Our goal is to make it "Like it never even happened."

Call 507-200-3700 for your flood damage repair needs.

Mold Can Go Undetected in Your Waseca Business

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Mold testing in Waseca

Mold can be a tricky thing. Sometimes people have no idea there is mold within their commercial property until they begin handling something else in the building. We often come across mold when a business has called us for water damage, odor problems, or something else other than a mold problem. Even if your mold problem has gone completely undetected and seems harmless, it can cause health effects that you or your employees may not notice right away or recognize as a problem.

So, you may now be wondering…

How can I test for mold?

Some people choose to purchase a mold test kit which can be helpful in some situations, but in many others it can have skewed results. These tests can sometimes cause unnecessary concern or cause people to ignore the problem. You may not be able to accurately determine the scope of your mold problem or where it lies, but there are a few things you can consider that may help you discover more about your mold problem.

If you have any areas in your building that have previously been exposed to water damage or leaks, this is a great first place to check for mold. Other places you can look for visible signs of mold are under sinks, in filing cabinets, on appliances, and on or near plumping and ductwork. If you still aren’t seeing any visible signs of mold but have a suspicion that it may be lurking in your business, consider if anyone has been experiencing mold exposure symptoms. Allergy symptoms and other health problems can be an indicator of mold.

Another way you may discover if you have mold or not is by your sense of smell. A musky scent or the smell of dirty socks can be an indicator. If you are smelling something fowl in one particular area but do not see any mold, you may need to check for mold behind the walls or under the floor in that area. Or, you can call SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna to have our team discover and mitigate your mold problem!

Commercial Lightening Equipment Safety Information for Eagle Lake

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Office lighting is the second most common cause of commercial fires - stay safe in Eagle Lake.

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), one of the most common causes of commercial fires is electrical and lighting equipment. This type of fire is not easily predicted, as the lighting equipment can look totally fine on the outside in your Eagle Lake business. SERVPRO® of Mankato/Owatonna wants to share the following information about commercial fires and how safety equipment helps to lessen the damage and can assist in preventing any bodily injury:

• Wet pipe sprinklers installed in the ceilings of commercial buildings are very effective in helping to fight the fire(s)
• Building sprinklers should be examined and tested every 5 years
• There should always be a fire extinguisher in reach inside of a commercial building and they must be checked annually to ensure they are in working order
• If an office building is on fire, exit the building immediately and do not try to fight the fire yourself
• If there is a lot of smoke inside the building, cover your mouth and nose and do your best to not inhale any of it

In the unfortunate event that a commercial building does catch fire, rest assured that SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is prepared to help clean up any fire damage the building/area has sustained.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is independently owned and operated.

Keep Your New Richland Office Prepared for Fire

9/18/2019 (Permalink)

Have a fire extinguisher within easy reach in your New Richland office

Office fires in New Richland are more common than you might think. If you have a break room in your office or small business, it probably contains a coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator and/or other small appliances. You should also include a fire extinguisher in there somewhere! SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna wants to remind you that fires can start as easily as turning on one of these appliances. There could be a short somewhere in the wiring or something inside the microwave could catch fire. Unfortunately, the possibilities are real and they do happen. Your workplace should have a training session on how to use fire extinguishers. If the owner of the business has not done that, please look into setting up a training session. Local fire departments are usually happy to assist with this training, and they can provide some real-life examples of ways to practice fire safety.

If your break room (or any other area of your office building) catches on fire, you will likely have smoke damage as well as damage from the fire. That is where SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna comes in. We are here to clean up the damage and make your New Richland building look new again. We are open 24/7 and we show up prepared. Please do not hesitate to call us if you need our services. We are Here to Help.

Preventing Commercial Water Damage

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

Damaged pipes and plumbing are a common cause of commercial water damage.

Before we look at how to prevent water damage in your commercial property, it is important to know what some of the most common causes of water damage are.

5 Common Causes of Commercial Water Damage

• Broken or damaged pipes.
• Window or roof leaks.
• Sewage backup.
• Sprinkler malfunctions.
• Storms and flooding.

Knowing the potential problems your business may run into is a great first step in preventing them, but what else can a business owner do to prevent water damage?

How to Prevent Commercial Water Damage

• Know your property. Be aware of potential problems in your building. Has it experienced water damage before? What caused it?
• Regularly inspect plumbing. Consider having a professional conduct regular maintenance on the plumbing system in your property.
• Have an emergency plan. Have a plan laid out for each possibly disaster scenario that includes the location of water shut-offs.
• Stay on top of repairs and upgrades. When things are outdated or break that could potentially cause a water problem, fix or replace them right away.
• Keep your gutters clean. Make sure there are no blockages preventing water from properly draining away from the building.

Storms Can Cause Sump Pump Failure in Mapleton, MN

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Sump pump failure after storms can cause extensive water damage.

Sump pumps are a very useful tool in keeping water out of your basement and home. Unfortunately they can't always keep up, especially if proper maintenance hasn't been routinely kept up. When severe thunderstorms roll through Mapleton or Ellendale, the water they bring may cause sump pumps to fail, allowing water to enter your home and bring water damage and destruction along with it. 

In this home, a sump pump failure caused extensive water damage that extended into the subfloors. Many water damage situations include drying the carpet, but this home was in need of even more drying. After removing the carpet, the subfloor was dried using one of SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna's unique solutions. Every disaster is different, so every solution we provide is different, too.

Severe storms are one of the biggest reasons that sump pumps fail. If you are experiencing water damage after a storm, your sump pump may be the culprit. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna can help with water damage and sump pump failure after storms in Mankato, North Mankato, Eagle Lake, New Richland, Amboy, Owatonna, Waseca, Mapleton, Ellendale, and Pemberton. Call us today at 507-200-3700 to find a unique solution for your unique disaster.

Local Business Affected by Flood

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Minimizing business interruption during a flood.

A local St. Peter store front flooded during this summer's wild storms. During some storms a substantial amount of rain can fall and any small leak in a door can cause a flood like this to happen.

Fortunately this business owner knew who to call. Upon arrival our technicians were able to extract the remaining water, dry the property before it caused any further damage and minimized any business interruption. 

In many businesses it is important to dry the property quickly so that business may resume as usual. Lost productivity and revenue can cause significant strain on any business.

If your business building experiences a flood of any size, small or large, you can trust SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna to get the job done professionally and promptly. 

Mold Hides in Mysterious Places

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Hidden Mold Problems Discovered

Mold is no friend of yours and SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is on your side when it comes to detecting and defeating mold. While it doesn't appear you have mold on the outside of your wall, it can certainly lurk in areas you wouldn't otherwise see or find.

This Ellendale Minnesota home had a small leak behind the kitchen sink. The homeowner was experiencing health allergies. After some research of their own they learned it was due to mold.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna was called out to do moisture checking through out the entire home and it was discovered a small leak behind the kitchen cabinet was the result of the mold allergen. It didn't appear to have a large amount of mold growth on the outside until the wet sheet rock was pulled from the wall.

Mold grows rapidly and can cause health concerns. If you're experiencing an allergic reaction it is always a good idea to get your home tested for mold growth. 

Additional information on mold toxicity can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/mold/stachy.htm  

Electrical Fires & The Damage They Cause

9/8/2019 (Permalink)

Electrical Fires Can Happen With Any Device In Your Home...

Did you know electrical fires can be a major contributor to home fires? 

Electrical distribution, lighting, and power transfer equipment accounted for 50% of home fires involving electrical failure or malfunction in the last five years.

Power surges from lightning are the least common cause however it is best to use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risks of shock and to prevent electrical fires.

This Owatonna Minnesota home fire started due to a malfunction in a home humidifier. The fire spread quickly through out the home effecting many areas and damaging personal property. To make sure your humidifier functions properly always read the care and instructions of the manufacturers manual.

To find out if your home humidifier has been recalled for defects go to:

https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2006/humidifiers-recalled-for-fire-hazard 

If you experience a fire due to electronic malfunctions in your home call SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna. We're here to help. 

Here To Help When a Fire Takes Control of Your Life

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Distributing Personal Emergency Bags in Owatonna, Minnesota

When fire takes control of your life, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna does everything we can to help take it back. Immediately after a house fire there are many things families may find themselves without. Simple things like tissues and a stuffed animal for crying little ones can provide comfort when a family has lost so much. Decreasing the stress just by giving kids a distraction and allowing the parents to focus on what their next steps are is just one part of what we hope to provide with our personal emergency assistance bags. The emergency assistance bags were distributed to Owatonna, Waseca, and North Mankato fire stations to allow families in our communities to access the resources provided immediately following a home fire.

The bags contain:

• First aid kit
• Tissues
• Stuffed animal
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Diapers
• Notepad
• Pen
• Tampon
• Shaving Kit
• Cotton swabs
• Q-tips
• Sanitizing wipes
• Phone book
• Coloring book
• Crayons
• Chapstick

We hope the families receiving these bags can utilize them to make things just a little bit easier and more comfortable during such a stressful time. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna specializes in restoring homes after fires as quickly as possible to get families back in their home and back to their normal lives without too much disruption, and we hope that these bags help families during the time it takes to restore their home and belongings.

Finding Shelter During Severe Weather in Owatonna and Mankato

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

Where can you find shelter in Mankato and Owatonna?

Severe weather such as thunderstorms, blizzards, and tornadoes can hit our area no matter where you are or what you're doing at that moment. You don't always find yourself in the safest possible area during severe storms. The radar may have started going off when you were in your car, at your workplace, or outside. No matter where you are when you find out what's headed your way, it is important to know what kind of shelter you can find at a moments notice. 

Finding shelter when you're in a vehicle: Being in a vehicle during severe weather is safer than being outside, but driving to a secure shelter nearby is a good idea if you have sufficient time. Look for bridges or other shelters you can park underneath.

Finding shelter when you're outside: If you get caught outside when a severe storm is approaching, it can easily cause panic. Your first instinct may be to take shelter under a tree, but this is not recommended. The tree may fall on you or put you at risk of getting struck by lightening. Look for a sturdy building (not a shed or storage facility) to take shelter in.

Finding shelter when you're at work: If your workplace does not currently have plans in place for what to do during severe weather or other emergencies, consider discussing it with others at your workplace. When severe weather is approaching, make sure to avoid windows and large open rooms.

For more information on severe thunderstorms and what to do before, during, and after one, visit https://www.weather.gov/safety/thunderstorm

SERVPRO Services in Waseca

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is able to handle damage from flood, fire, storm, mold, any other disaster to hit your home or office.

Why SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

Have you ever had to wade through a pond in your living room? Or, maybe you’ve returned to a half-burned home?  We hope you never have to deal with this but if you do, it’s always good to be prepared and respond quickly. With SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna as a partner, you can be better equipped to handle problems in your Waseca home or office!

Why SERVPRO?

1. SERVPRO is a leader in fire and water cleanup and restoration.
2. Franchise professionals have the training and experience to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
3. SERVPRO’s proven system helps to ensure a return to preloss condition.
4. We work with most insurance companies.
5. SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

SERVPRO doesn’t only handle fire and water damage. Other services include:

• Storm damage cleanup
• Mold mitigation
• Restoration
• Document restoration
• Electronics restoration
• Dry cleaning
• Reconstruction
• Biohazard cleanup
• General cleaning

With over 1700 Franchise locations across the U.S. and Canada, SERVPRO is never far away.

If your Waseca home or business experiences water or fire damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to be there for you.

Preparing for Storms in Amboy

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

When storms are brewing, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna will be there

When storms are brewing, we may not think destruction is headed our way but sometimes the inevitable happens in Amboy, Minnesota. While storms can be beautiful, they can turn deadly in just moments. Being prepared will help minimize harm to people and bring less damage to your property. If you find yourself in the aftermath of a storm, let SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna turn your chaos back to normal.

A few ways to prepare for a storm with strong winds are:

• Have a flashlight readily available in case of a power outage
• Board up windows and doors ahead of time, if possible
• Secure loose items
• Have an emergency kit ready including non-perishable foods and water
• Make a plan ahead of time so your family will know what to do

Your local meteorologists will monitor the weather conditions in your area keeping you informed on what type of storm is happening. A storm Watch indicates they are watching for formations of specific types (flooding, severe thunderstorms, hail, tornadoes, etc.)  A storm Warning means there are property and life-threatening conditions occurring so you should take precautions.

Once the storm has subsided in Amboy, please continue to be careful walking about your structure as there could be loose debris, and compromised structures, etc. Wear boots, and gloves to help protect yourself but above all call the professionals at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna to make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

Kidz Bop Ticket Giveaway in Mankato!

8/8/2019 (Permalink)

#SERVPROCleanThis

Looking for tickets to Kidz Bop World Tour 2019?

With school coming up quickly here in Mankato, you may be looking for some family fun before the summer ends. The upcoming Kidz Bop concert in Mankato will be a great outing for all members of the family. Their kid-friendly versions of today’s hit music are entertaining for all age groups and even some parents! The concert is on August 24 at the Vetter Stone Amphitheater in Mankato, just over a week before schools begin here. Back to school supply expenses can pile up and make it difficult to be able to take the family to this event, but SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is here to help. We are giving away two Family 4-Packs to the show that are easy to win!

All you have to do to enter the drawing is LIKE SERVPRO OF MANKATO/OWATONNA ON FACEBOOK. For families that are extra excited to win, you can earn an ADDITIONAL TWO ENTRIES by posting a creative photo using the hashtag #SERVPROCLEANTHIS. This can also be a fun family activity! Having the kiddos come up with a fun photo idea and seeing it pay off by winning tickets can be awfully enjoyable.

Winners will be drawn Wednesday, August 21, so keep an eye on our page to find out if you won! What other concerts or activities would you like to see us give away tickets for?

How to Get Flood Insurance in Eagle Lake

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage & Insurance in Eagle Lake

Did you know that most property insurance does not cover flood damage?

Most insurance rates vary by company. While the rules for insurance varies by state, flood insurance is an exception.

Some homeowners’ policies will cover water damage if the damage comes from:

• sewer or drain backup
• sudden & accidental damage from plumbing, heating systems, or air conditioning

The policy might also cover mold remediation, but not if a flood caused the problem.

How to get flood insurance in Eagle Lake:

• Check whether your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). You can still get flood insurance if you live in a low-risk area. The insurance will cost less if you live in a low-risk area.
• Find an insurance agent in Eagle Lake. The NFIP is the only flood-insurance provider, but the government does not sell it. Buy the insurance through an insurance agent. The NFIP sets the rates.
• If your insurance agent doesn’t know about the NFIP, call the help center at 1-800-427-4661

***

Links:

https://www.usa.gov/property-insurance

www.fema.gov

Standing Water Can Be a Source of Diseases in Owatonna

7/25/2019 (Permalink)

Staying Healthy Around Standing Water in Mankato and Owatonna

Standing water of any kind in Owatonna can be a powerful source of disease. Floods can be worse due to the amount of water involved. Even small puddles can pose a risk.

Different kinds of debris can be found in flood water such as dead animals, rotted plants, and sewage, to name a few. If you have water damage inside your home, watch for debris in the home as well to include rooted food and electrical problems.

Viruses and bacteria can cause illnesses. To reduce your chances of catching something, SERVPRO of  Mankato/Owatonna suggests:

• Washing dirty clothes and towels in hot water. Use bleach if possible
• Remember that you can shake hands with an infected person and get infected.
• Do not allow children to play in the flood water
• Wash children’s hands before meals
• Disinfect toys before letting children play with them
• Use bleach or other disinfectants on hard surfaces
• Keep your hands washed

Cuts and rashes can become infected. Protect yourself and others in Mankato:

• Avoid flood waters if you have an open rash or a cut
• Clean cuts or rashes. Cover them with a waterproof bandage
• Clean cuts with soap and clean water
• If a cut becomes red, swollen, or is oozing, get medical attention

Being Prepared Can Save Your Belongings

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

With all the rain in Mankato recently, it’s a good time to make sure you are somewhat prepared in case of a basement flood. Many people utilize their basement as storage space. If you are storing things in your basement that you don’t want to lose due to water damage, you should consider how you are storing them. Cardboard boxes can soak up water quickly and damage everything inside within a short period of time. Using plastic tubs instead of cardboard boxes can help prevent the water from reaching the important items inside of them. If you don’t want to switch to plastic tubs, placing your cardboard boxes above ground level can be effective as well. Some community members place boxes onto cheap shelving units that keep them off the ground. This is a cost effective way of keeping multiple storage boxes off of the ground and keeping them organized and more accessible than heavy stacked boxes. A cardboard box on a porous concrete basement floor may also lead to mold problems. It is recommended that you store anything biodegradable on metal or plastic shelving at least 18 inches away from the foundation. If you think you have a mold problem or your basement floods, give SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna a call, we are here to help.

Recent Storms in MN Leave Potentially Dangerous Flood Waters

7/22/2019 (Permalink)

Flood waters in Owatonna

Flood waters and standing waters can carry infectious diseases, chemical hazards, and other risks of injury. Make sure to wash your hands after contact with flood waters and avoid eating or drinking anything contaminated by flood waters. Children should not be allowed to play in flood waters or with toys that have been contaminated and have not been disinfected. Handwashing is especially important with children and should be done frequently to avoid diarrheal diseases and other hazards.

The CDC provides information on possible infectious diseases after a disaster at: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/disease/infectious.html

Open wounds and rashes exposed to flood waters can become infected. Avoid exposure to flood waters if you have an open wound and make sure to keep wounds clean and covered to reduce the chance of infection. Flood waters also have the potential to move hazardous materials from their normal storage places. They can also displace animals, insects, and reptiles, so it is important to be alert and avoid contact.

For more information please visit: https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/extreme-weather/floods-standingwater.html

What's That Smell in My House?

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna can remove offensive odors from your Mankato or Owatonna home.

Smelling something fowl in your home can be alarming and irritating. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has a few tips for identifying smells and getting rid of them. No matter what you’re smelling in your Mankato or Owatonna home, it is important to put safety first. The smell of smoke, rotten eggs, or dirty socks may be an indicator of dangerous conditions. If you smell smoke, get out of the house and call 911 as it may be a house fire.

In need of fire damage repair? Call SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna at 507-200-3700

The smell of rotten eggs may be caused by a sewer or natural gas leak, in which case evacuation should be considered. Gas leaks can also smell like propane, skunk, or a dead animal. Use caution if you smell something like this in your home but know that these fowl smells can have other less serious causes as well. If the smell is faint, it may just be an overflowing trash can or something the dog dragged in. If the odor is very strong, it may be best to leave the home instead of investigating.

If your home has a musty odor, like dirty socks or feet, this may be an indication of a mold problem. Mold can be harmful to your health, so if you smell mold or discover mold in your home it is important to resolve the issue promptly. Mold may not always be easily seen, so smell can be a good way of determining if you are in need of mold remediation.

Whatever the smell may be, SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna’s trained professionals will find the source of the odor and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate the odor from your home. From musty mold to lingering tobacco smells, we are here to help!

New Fire Separation Requirements in Mankato, MN

6/27/2019 (Permalink)

Gypsum board separation under stairs.

The City of Mankato has enacted a new ordinance that will require all dwelling units (owner occupied and rental) to have fire separations in certain areas. Garage to house fire separations and a gypsum board under stairs are the main requirements of the ordinance. Garage fires can quickly get out of control, but a fire barrier can be an effective way of stopping the fire long enough for people to escape. For dwellings with attached garages, a fire separation consists of 5/8” type X gypsum board on the garage side of the wall separating the house from the garage. A fire door must also be installed between the garage and the house.

A gypsum board under enclosed basement stairs used for storage can also allow people more time to escape and allow firefighters to enter. Stairs are a common means of escape from basements and are used by firefighters in the home, so it is important for them to remain intact during a fire. Without the gypsum board, stairs can be quickly weakened by a fire enclosed in the space underneath them.

A fire separation is required on walls and ceiling under the stairs in all homes with basements. For newly installed separations, the material must be 5/8” type X gypsum board. All joints must be covered with tape and at least one layer of joint compound. Existing separations must be gypsum board in good condition with joints covered. An alternative method for under stair protection may be a sprinkler head taken off the domestic water supply.

Who Should I Use?

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

Emergency situations usually call for quick reaction. In cases where a home or business structure in Steele County is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, we are the-fast-response you need to get relief.  Chaotic situations can be handled or endured in an orderly fashion with professionals and the right tools applied. When you must choose your clean-up/restoration specialist, you are likely considering a few important things:

• Convenient location
• 24/7 availability
• Professionalism
• Efficiency
• Honesty
• Experience
• Latest equipment

SERVPRO is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re here to help.  SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna are business owners, homeowners and renters just like you so we understand the initial needs. Our promise to you is to provide the same quality and integrity based service that we, as your neighbor, may also need in the future.

Tips to Stay Safe During a Storm

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

Floods in Mankato and Owatonna

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the U.S.  Flooding can happen near major bodies of water, but also inland.

Floods can develop slowly or quickly. Floods that come with no warning are known as flash floods.

Floods:

• Come from rain, snow, hurricanes, tornadoes, and storm surges
• Overflows of dams or other water systems
• Can cause power or water outages
• Damage buildings
• Create landslides
• Make roads impassable
• Sweep away people, animals, or cars

If you are in a flood in Mankato or Owatonna:

• If you have a warning, get to a safe place
• Don’t drive around barricades
• Don’t walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna likes the warning, “Turn around! Don’t Drown!”
• 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down. 12 inches of moving water can sweep a car away
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. The water can wash bridges away
• If your car is trapped in quickly-moving water, stay inside. If the water rises inside the vehicle, climb onto the roof
• If you are trapped in a building, go to the highest level. Do NOT climb into a closed attic. Floodwater can trap you. Go to the roof only if there is no other escape

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/floods

https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program

Why SERVPRO is The Best Choice For Your Waseca Home

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

Why SERVPRO?

SERVPRO opened in 1967 in Sacramento, California. Ted Isaacson, the owner, sold his first Franchise in 1969.  SERVPRO headquarters moved to Gallatin, Tennessee in 1988. Now it has over 1700 Franchises in the United States and Canada.

What does SERVPRO do?

SERVPRO provides:

• residential & commercial cleanup of:
  • water/ flood damage
  • fire damage
  • storm damage
• mold remediation
• restoration

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna performs these specialties, including:

• document restoration
• electronics restoration
• dry cleaning
• reconstruction
• biohazard cleanup
• duct cleaning

SERVPRO works directly with most insurance companies, and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Why SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna?  Each franchise is an individually owned and operated company. People who work for SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna live in the area.  Additionally, it has advanced expertise in water restoration along with specialized equipment in water removal and in advanced drying equipment. 

Technicians at SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna have extra training and certification in water restoration. The technicians document every step. You will know exactly what SERVPRO did, and how the process worked. 

We are proud to serve our local communities:

• Mankato
• Owatonna
• North Mankato
• Waseca
• Eagle Lake
• Mapleton
• New Richland
• Ellendale
• Amboy
• Pemberton

Storm Evacuation with Disabilities in Owatonna

6/6/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna

Storm Damage & Evacuation in Owatonna and Mankato

People with disabilities may need to pack more during an evacuation.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has these tips:

Plan for backup if you have your own car. A storm or flood may damage your car.

Before an emergency, check with your healthcare provider to understand these things:

• Where should I go if I need medical care?
• Where can I get medical supplies?
• How I do get accessible transportation?
• Does the facility have disability ramp access?

Bring with you:

• Written contact list
• Medical alert tags/bracelets
• Copies of medical insurance and Medicare cards
• List of all medications, dosages, and allergies
• Style & serial number of medical devices
• Supply of prescription medications
• Supply of medical equipment
• Extra battery for a power wheelchair
• Any cushions or padding
• Wheelchairs, canes, braces, etc.

Storm damage makes life more difficult for service animals too.

For people who have service animals in Owatonna and Mankato:

Pack extra food,  water, & other supplies for the service animal

• Tell emergency responders that your service animal travels with you
• Shelters and other buildings may not refuse entry to a service animal

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

Fires From Arson Can Not Be Ignored

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Prevent Fires in Blue Earth County

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna wants you to be aware of the causes of fire damage and fire injuries so that you can help prevent them.

Top Causes of Fires in Blue Earth County:

• Arson & intentional fires. An “intentional fire” is one that is not set to cause harm, but it gets out of control.  Arson is a fire that is set to cause harm. Most of the time, arson and intentional fires are set outside. Deaths, injuries, and fire damage usually happen indoors
• Candles-SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna has more info here.
• Kitchen fires are the leading cause of home fire injuries and home fire damage
• Use all electrical equipment according to the directions
• Heating equipment is the second most common cause of deaths in home fires
• December, January, and February are the months that have the most home heating fires
• Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other smoking materials are the biggest cause of fire deaths in the U.S. Think of preventing tragedy when explaining why to quit smoking
• Children should never be left alone with matches, lighters, candles, or other dangerous materials. Children playing with fire cause hundreds of deaths and injuries every year

Please pay attention to fire safety. While we can help to restore your home or office, prevention and family safety should always come first. Share this blog with a friend who might want to learn more about fire prevention.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire

Tips To Minimize Water Damage to Your Owatonna Home or Business

6/5/2019 (Permalink)

Minimize Water Damage In Owatonna

If your home or business in Owatonna has water damage, you can do some things before help arrives.

Make sure that the building or home is safe.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna Wants You to Remember:

• Waterlogged materials are very heavy
• Wet surfaces are slippery
• Make sure that electrical power is off before you handle devices
• Make sure you are standing on dry area before you turn on electric power

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna suggests that you:

• Remove excess water with mops and/or towels
• Wipe water from wood furniture or other items
• Remove wet cushions. Prop them upright to dry
• Hang up rugs to dry
• Place foil or blocks between furniture and wet carpeting
• Turn on dehumidifiers or air-conditioning if it is safe
• Move colored items from wet carpeting
• Move artwork to a safe, dry place
• Move loose items from the floor or counters
• Start drying items ASAP
• Remember that mold starts growing within 24 hours
• Stay away from rooms that have sagging ceilings

***

Links:

www.fema.gov

Flooded Basement in Your Mankato Home? Act Fast to Prevent Further Damage and Hazards!

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

The dreaded basement flood. We all want to pretend those three inches of water aren’t there and that the incident never even happened, but the longer you wait, the bigger the problem can become. Within just the few minutes it takes you to wrap your head around what just happened, water is absorbed into your walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets, and photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp. In just the next 24 hours, drywall begins to swell and break down, furniture begins to swell and crack, a musty odor appears, and more.

Ignoring the problem for even more than just 48 hours may cause mold and mildew to grow and spread (luckily, for those who do wait, SERVPRO’s highly trained technicians can be your best friend in mold mitigation!). Between 48 hours and 1 week, your doors, windows, and studs swell and warp, metal begins to rust and corrode, paint begins to blister, wood flooring swells and warps, and serious biohazard contamination is possible. Waiting longer than 1 week increases restoration time and cost dramatically, and structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to you and your family. Always keep safety in mind first, and make sure to evacuate when necessary.

Have A Water Damage Emergency? Call (507) 200-3700

Since SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is typically on-site within four hours, calling right away can prevent some of this damage. While you wait for that bright green truck to arrive, there are a few things you can do if you have determined it is safe to remain in the house. Keep in mind that electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns, and that wet materials can be very heavy. Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.

What To Do When Your Basement Floods

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do When Your Basement Floods

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Basement floods can really put a damper on things, but don’t let it take control of your life, and don’t wait to get help! Instead of waiting and pretending it never even happened, let SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna restore your home so it really is "Like it never even happened."

Mold In Drywall / Remediation and the EPA In Mankato and Eagle Lake

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

Don't Let Mold Catch You Unawares

Even a tiny bit of moisture can lead to mold growing in drywall.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ruled that only licensed professionals can clean any surface that has more than 10 square feet of mold. The EPA cannot know how you take care of your home or business, but you will need an inspection if you want to sell. You might not see all of the mold. The sooner you get rid of mold, the less damage it can cause.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna is licensed in mold remediation.

Mold remediation means getting rid of the mold spores that become mold as well as fixing the root cause of the dampness.

Mold can:

• start growing on a damp surface within 24 hours
• destroy the materials they grow on
• spread and destroy adjacent materials
• grow from tiny spores that travel through the air

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna can:

• remove drywall
• disinfect certain surfaces
• find the source of moisture
• stop the moisture problem

Links:
https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/index.html

Do You Have An Office Escape Route Planned?

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna hopes your home or business never has to deal with fire or smoke damage.  Sometimes, a portable fire extinguisher is not enough to save your property and the only thing you can do is escape.

 A small flame can turn into a large fire in a matter of minutes. Lives are more important than objects, so get yourself and others out of danger.

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna Offers These Tips for Escape:

• Make an escape plan ahead of time. Make sure everyone knows the plan
• Make sure that all doors and windows open easily
• Plan at least two different ways of escaping every room
• When you leave, close the doors and windows to shut in the flames
• Practice the plan
• Do not stop to pick up valuables. You can replace objects
• Make sure your plan includes a place to meet that is a safe distance from the home
• Do not turn off smoke alarms when you cook. You may need the warning
• If you have to go through smoke, crawl under it

SERVPRO of Mankato/Owatonna reminds you to call the fire department once you are outside the home.

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/fire-and-life-safety-equipment/fire-extinguishers

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Resources/Safety-tip-sheets/EscapePlanningTips.ashx?la=en

STAY WARM AND SAFE THIS WINTER

1/16/2019 (Permalink)

FIRE SAFETY TIPS

SERVPRO of Mankato Owatonna wishes you a warm and safe 2019 winter.

Did you know….

• $2 billion in property loss occurs each year from winter home fires.
• Winter home fires account for only 8 percent of the total number of fires in the U.S., but result in 30 percent of all fire deaths.
• Cooking is the leading cause of all winter home fires.
• A heat source too close to combustibles is the leading factor contributing to the start of a winter home fire (15 percent).
• 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. is the most common time for winter home fires.

Practice fireplace safety and do routine maintenance checks. Call SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna if you experience any fire or smoke damage @ 507-200-3700

For information on fire safety tips visit:

https://www.ready.gov/home-fires

https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/Pages/Fireplace-Safety-Ti

CARE & CAUTION IN NORTH MANKATO

12/21/2018 (Permalink)

When it comes to your home, SERVPRO is cautious and prepared to handle all your concerns.

As the leading restoration provider in Mankato and Owatonna, our technicians are trained to take care of your personal property. We will always ensure to take caution when in contact with items that can't be moved, items that are of great value to you and provide all measures of safety.

In this picture, we had to remove several ceilings due to a water damage from a storm. We taped up a containment area in this kitchen to ensure no debris dirtied or damaged the homeowners cabinets and counter tops.   

Our technicians not only take pride in the work they perform but also take precautions when it is warranted. 

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is prepared to take all safety measures concerning your home and it's contents!

SERVPRO KEEPS IT CLEAN IN MANKATO, MN

12/11/2018 (Permalink)

Cleaning Equipment

Because we are ''the cleaning experts'' SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna believes having clean equipment represents our profession in a great way.

After each job we do, we clean our equipment and perform maintenance checks before placing it back on our shelves. We know and understand all jobs are unique and may encounter debris, dust or worse-mold spores. As cleaning and mold experts we ensure our equipment is working at top notch performance and represents the highest standards of clean.

After journeying back from a long trip helping residential and commercial property owners with storm restoration services, we stacked all our equipment to be cleaned and checked. Our technicians spent more than the better half of a day performing quality checks and cleaning equipment.

You can count on SERVPRO to help with all your cleaning needs. Call today to schedule an assessment.

WHY SERVPRO?

11/28/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna to help you. Our technicians are always ready to assist!

TOP OF THE LINE EQUIPMENT & SERVICES

Why call SERVPRO for your emergency services?

Let us tell you why. Because our technicians are highly trained and we only use top of the line equipment. The services were trained and certified in speak for themselves...

Certifications

• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• CMT - Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician
• FSRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
• HST - Health and safety Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• OCT - Odor Control Technician
• OSHA - Other Training
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

And because SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is faster to any size disaster, we come ready to serve you. The picture above shows how important it is to call us should you have water damage happen to you. We come with top of the line equipment to quickly remove the water in your home or business. 

You can count on SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna to help you through any disaster you may encounter. 

Preventing Fires This Thanksgiving Holiday

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna wishes everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

Did you know?

Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires and can sometimes be due to turkey cooking methods.

When frying foods, you can increase the risk of a cooking fire.

Keep in mind of the potential dangers of deep frying a turkey:

• Turkey fryers can easily tip over spilling hot oil across a large area. Use your turkey fryer only outdoors on a sturdy, level surface away from things that can burn.
• Make sure to have a “3-foot kid- and pet-free zone” around your turkey fryer to protect against burn injuries.
• An overfilled cooking pot will cause oil to spill over when the turkey is placed inside.
• Determine the correct amount of oil needed by first placing the turkey in the pot with water.

• A partially frozen turkey will cause hot oil to splatter. Make sure your turkey is completely thawed before you fry it.

• Turkey fryers can easily overheat and start a fire. Check the temperature often with a cooking thermometer so the oil won’t overheat.

• The pot, lid and handles of a turkey fryer can get dangerously hot and cause burn injuries. Use long cooking gloves that protect hands and arms when you handle these items.

For more information and free fire-safety resources, visit www.usfa.fema.gov.

Commercial Cleaning At It's Best

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Cleaning with SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna

SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna prides on our commercial work. The new owners of this building were tasked with soot from exhaust fumes. A job SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna is trained to tackle. Our professional cleaning team while using the scissor lifts were able to clean all walls and ceilings. 

If you didn't know, soot can build up over time and cause an acidic residue to appear on any surface. This can lead to all kinds of issues. Not only is it unhealthy to work in and around but can be a daunting job to take on yourself to clean. 

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna understand how these residues can effect a business's appearance and we were pleased to help with this project.

Through our extended training and continued education we are able to resolve all cleaning tasks with top of the line commercial cleaning chemicals and procedures in making it like it never even happened^©. 

If you have a cleaning project you're unsure of how to deal with, give SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna a call @ 507.200.3700

When Water Damage Effects Your Owatonna Business

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna is ready and prepared.

Water damage can effect any structure. It's usually always unexpected and comes with a mess to clean up after. The picture above is a conference room that was effected by water from a broken pipe in the building. Fortunately the director of the establishment called SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna to respond. Because they called as soon as they did, we were able to start the restoration process which resulted in less damage and repairs.

According to the latest research many businesses don't fully recover after a disaster, as much as 50% of them even. Which is why it is so important to take advantage of SERVPRO's© Emergency Ready Plans now. They are a no cost assessment to you and by developing a SERVPRO© ready plan you can prepare for disasters before they effect your business. 

The restoration project that took place in this building went very smoothly because of their quick response to call SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna. 

Call SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna today to start your Emergency Ready Plan @ 507.200.3700

Water Damage In Mankato Minnesota!

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

WATER DAMAGE RESPONSE TEAM

Water damage happens when you least expect it to, but rest assure because SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna are here to help with these kind of disasters. 

This Mankato homeowner had a pipe burst and the areas effected were not just in the walls but in the ceiling too. 

Our technicians arrived within under an hour, performed a full scope of services needed and began the restoration process. Not only did we begin the mitigation steps but upon further inspection our team members discovered mold growth behind interior walls. This resulted in a full cut out of a room. 

The homeowner had no idea their was mold or any previous water losses. Once we educated our customer of the real dangers of mold spores they wanted the mitigation to start immediately. 

The entire process was explained and we at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna achieved 100% success in making another home safe again.  

SERVPRO IS READY TO HELP

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO READY

Water loss comes in all sizes!

Water damage can be of all sizes, no matter the culprit or cause of the damage. When it comes to commercial water loss SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna is ready to help you. 

We understand that these disasters can disrupt your business which is why we work our hardest to make it "Like it never even happened." We will always work with you and your employees to ensure the restoration process does not effect your flow of business by developing a strategic plan with you and your company. 

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna will come equipped to assist in every way possible. You can count on us to show up prepared to get your business back up and running without any further interruptions.  

Fall Maintenance Tips for Mankato / Owatonna Homes

9/20/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Fall Maintenance Tips for Mankato / Owatonna Homes

Autumn is just around the corner. As hard as it may be to accept "at first" we Northerners know it's coming. No matter how much we'd like to pretend winter will take its time getting here, we must start preparing now. 

There is important maintenance work to be done before that first snowflake appears out your window. It’s these tasks we don’t always look forward to but a must.

While the weather starts to change, now is the perfect time to get started on cleaning those gutters.  Avoiding this task can ultimately lead to damage to your home including but not limited to:

• Damage to the gutters itself. Your gutters can become heavy when full of debris and fall causing a hazard to you, your family or visitors to your home. Not to mention you’ll need to repair or replace them adding costs that can be prevented.
• Fire hazards due to dry leaves left behind. No one wants to think a fire could happen but if a spark from even a neighbor welding “who may be using all safety precautions” can cause a spark to fly into your gutters resulting in a fire.
• Water can become backed up in those gutters and can eventually cause water damage to your roof, garage and even the walls and ceilings of your home. This happens more frequently than we believe it does.

Take the time in the coming weeks to clean your gutters and while your at it use these safety tips to ensure your safety during these cleaning projects:

• Do check for critters first. Sometimes animal wildlife and or pests can be taking up home in your gutters. Gently shaking the gutter first might help alert small animals to find another home.
• Choose a good and sturdy ladder. If you don’t have a safe ladder it might be a good idea to buy a new one or borrow a ladder that ensures your safety.
• Make sure to inspect this ladder before using it for any damage. Inspecting this ladder for sturdiness on each step and ensure that all screws are secure. The ladder should be safe for use before you make that first step. Check your owners manual for any specifications when using specific ladders.
• It’s always a good idea to let someone know you will be performing this task in case of accidental injuries or falls.
• Remember both of your feet and one hand should always be in contact with the ladder you’ve chosen to use. This is called a 3 point contact and should always be considered when on a ladder.
• Using protective eye wear will keep your eyes safe from any debris inside your gutters.
• Wear gloves. A cleaner hand is always favored but wearing gloves may also be the one thing that may protect you from a bite or sting from an insect.

Best of luck to you all in getting those gutters cleaned.

Stay safe and stay tuned for more useful tips and practical advice from SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna to ready your home or business for the Winter months.

Storms Can Be Unpredictable!

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna Rerouting to get to you.

SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna fully understands how Storms can become unpredictable. The photo you see here in this blog shows that even in sever floods SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna will find a way to get to you. Our technicians drove an additional 20 miles to get around these flooded roads to reach a homeowner and help with their flooded basement.

When Storms or Floods hit Mankato or Owatonna and even the surrounding areas where services are limited or none exist SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna is ready to help anyone we can!

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage.

SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna 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 Mankato / Owatonna and other areas where services are not available, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today @ (507)-200-3700

Watch Out For Mold In Your Owatonna Home

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has guidelines about mold. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities would like to share these guidelines.

Question- What Causes Mold to Grow:

1. Moisture
2. Warmth
3. Protein-Protein is in building materials like drywall
4. It is also in wood and in many paint
5. Skin cells (we shed them all the time
6. Dog and cat dander

How to identify mold:

1. Only a licensed professional can identify what kind of mold you have. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities does not identify mold types
2. You need to know what kind of mold you have

How to eliminate a mold problem AFTER an inspector has identified the type of mold

1. Call a licensed professional. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities is licensed in mold remediation. We know how to clean up the different mold types
2. Be aware, there can be much more mold than you see. Mold spores are tiny
3. Without proper training, equipment, and safety measures, you should NOT try to resolve the problem yourself

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

Candles and Fire Prevention in Mankato / Owatonna

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities wants you to be safe from fire and smoke damage. Although fires from candles happen more often around the holidays, many people use candles all year round. It is so important to be careful any time you have an open flame in your home or office.

Fire Prevention is the best way to fight against fire damage or injuries.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities offers these tips for candle safety from the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA):

• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire
• Don’t let children near candles
• Put out candles when leaving the room or going to bed
• Keep trees and other plants away from candles
• Make sure that candles are not near window curtains or blinds that could catch fire
• Keep lit candles in safe candle holders
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candles in holders that keep the flames behind glass
• If the flame has to burn until the candles are out, keep the candle holders in a sink or a metal container of water
• Do not leave children alone in a room with lit candles
• Don’t light candles in the bedroom. You might fall asleep. One third of all candle fires start in the bedroom
• If the power goes out, use flashlights instead of candles
• If someone in the home uses oxygen, do not use candles
• Fire damage from candles happens 35 times a day in the U.S.

A little caution goes a long way to protect you and your loved ones. If you have to deal with damage caused by smoke or fire from a candle, your friends at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna. We are just a phone call away.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Top-causes-of-fire/Candles

https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/religious_candles_safety_tips.pdf

Fire Extinguisher Safety in Mankato / Owatonna Cities

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna

All of us at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities hope you never have a fire. If the worst happens, we are experts in cleaning the damage left by smoke and fire in your home or office.

Fire extinguishers may help prevent fire damage or smoke damage, but only if you know how to use them.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities wants to share these tips from FEMA. You can try to fight a small fire only if:

• You have alerted others in the building that there is a fire
• Someone has called the fire department
• You are physically able to use a fire extinguisher
• The fire is small and contained (like a wastebasket)
• You are safe from the fire’s smoke
• You have a clear escape route

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher: SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities suggests you remember PASS:

Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.

Aim at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle side to side.

If you see a small fire at your place of business or home, and you think you can take care of it yourself, use these tips above. If you have any worries, you and everyone should leave the building and call 9-1-1 when you are safe, outside.

Links:

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/

https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/extinguishers.html

Storm Damage Can Cause Mold in Mankato / Owatonna Cities

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna

Mold grows out of tiny spores. Spores are tough enough to survive indoors or outdoors in harsh conditions. Spores can survive for years. Scientists have found ancient mold spores that could grow into mold.

Standing water and moisture can lead to mold growing in your home. Mold does not need visible water to grow. Humidity inside the home is enough. Small amounts of water vapor can help mold grow.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities knows that storm or flood damage can allow the mold spores to open up. Any dampness can lead to mold.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities can remediate mold that grows on:

• Wood
• Paper
• Carpet
• Insulation
• Drywall
• Crawl spaces
• Attics
• Basements
• Bathrooms
• Anywhere in your home or business

To treat mold correctly, it is criticially important to first stop the source of moisture. SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities can clean and repair the damage caused by mold in your home or business. More important, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities has a specialty in mold remediation.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/index.html

Prevent Mold in Your Mankato / Owatonna Cities Basements

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities wants to help educate others about mold:

• Mold can grow almost anywhere
• to grow, mold needs:
  • above-freezing temperatures
  • protein, such as in animal dander, skin cells, wood, plaster, carpet
  • moisture
  • oxygen
• It grows rapidly
• It causes damages property
• It thrives in basements

If you have a small amount of mold on a dish, you can clean it. You can even throw it out. If you have a large amount of mold, however, you need a licensed professional to do the mold remediation.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities is licensed in mold remediation. We know that the best offense against mold is a good defense.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities suggests the following criteria for preventing mold damage in your basement:

• Elevate equipment and inventory above the floor
• Maintain humidity below 40% with a dehumidifier
• Use water-resistant materials in building/repairing the basement
• Use galvanized or stainless-steel hardware
• Repair leaky pipes
• Cover any dirt in crawlspaces. This prevents water from seeping through the ground
• Ventilate the basement

If you follow these steps, it will greatly decrease your chances of experiencing the destruction caused by mold in your home or office.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-remediation-schools-and-commercial-buildings-guide

Thunderstorms & Lightning in Mankato / Owatonna Cities

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities

Thunderstorms can be beautiful, but they are dangerous. They can cause severe damage to your home and property. Thunderstorms include lightning and can:

• Include winds over 50 MPH
• Create hail
• Cause flash floods
• Cause tornadoes
• Cause flooding

In most places, a thunderstorm can happen at any time of the year and at any time of the day.

You can’t prevent a thunderstorm, but you can prepare.

• Know the risk for thunderstorms in Mankato / Owatonna Cities
• Sign up for your community’s warning system

• Cut down or trim trees that may fall on your home
• Install surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities repeats the warning, “When thunder roars, go indoors”. You don’t have to wait for the thunder. If there is a thunderstorm warning, go inside. Once there:

• Unplug appliances
• Do not use landline phones
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings

If you can’t get inside a building:

• If you are swimming or in a boat, get to land immediately. Find shelter
• If you are in a car, don’t touch anything metal
• “Turn around. Don’t Drown”. Avoid flooded roads. 6 inches of moving water can knock you down. One foot of moving water can sweep away your car

A lightning strike during a thunderstorm can leave a wake of destruction in its path. This can range from minor electrical issues to fire damage. Lightning is also a major cause of injury or death from weather-related dangers. Most people survive being hit by lightning, but they often have long-term problems.

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning

https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1527866280447-8ee0ba123e9a7b91c75b97dfb62cb657/ThunderStorm_May2018.pdf

Use Caution Outside During Tornado Season

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna

In Mankato / Owatonna Cities, we know about the dangers of tornadoes. Storm damage, water damage, and high winds can cause death, injuries, and property destruction.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities knows that tornadoes can rise up quickly. We may not always be able to get to shelter.

If you are caught outside during a tornado in Mankato / Owatonna Cities:

• Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car. Tornadoes can flip cars
• Do not use your car as a shelter
• You are safer in a low, flat location
• Do not hide under a bridge or an overpass. Structures can collapse
• Shield your head and neck with your arms
• You can use blankets or coats for more shielding
• Watch out for flying objects
• Do not try to cross through water. Water can rise rapidly

When a tornado strikes a home or business, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities is here to help clean up the mess. But the most important thing you can do is to stay safe.

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes

Commercial Flood Insurance in Mankato / Owatonna Cities

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides flood insurance. The NFIP doesn’t sell insurance. Buy flood insurance from an insurance agent.

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities is interested in helping the businesses in our community become more educated on flood insurance. According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses do not reopen after experiencing a devastating flood.

Things to know in Mankato / Owatonna Cities. Check to see if you might be required to have flood insurance.

• All agencies in Mankato / Owatonna Cities charge the same for flood insurance
• Standard commercial insurance doesn’t pay for flood damage
• The NFIP sets the rates
• Rates depend on:
  • whether you live in a flood plain
  • flood risk in your area
  • building’s age
  • building’s construction
• Building property insurance covers the building
• Personal property insurance covers the building’s contents
• NFIP suggests you need both types
• Policies go into effect 30 days after purchase
• The NFIP help center number is 1-800-427-4661

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities recommends the following:

• Check whether or not your area participates in the NFIP
• Check whether or not your area is part of the Community Rating System. The NFIP might have a discount
• Talk to your insurance agent when you need to make changes

Make sure your business is protected from the devastation that comes with unwanted flooding in your office. Call SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna @ (507) 200-3700 if you need help getting your office back to it's pre loss condition.

***

Links:

https://www.usa.gov/property-insurance

www.fema.gov

Mankato / Owatonna Cities Flood Evacuation Emergency Kit

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna

SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities wants you to be prepared if a flood forces you to evacuate.

Some of these items can be kept in a waterproof container (your emergency kit). Medications probably cannot, but you can have them ready to bring with you.

If a flood in Mankato / Owatonna Cities means you have to evacuate your home, you will need:

• Written contact list
• Copies of medical insurance & Medicare cards

• Warm blankets
• Extra clothing, especially socks & undergarments
• Bottled water
• Batteries for your electronic devices

Some people in Mankato / Owatonna Cities will also need:

• At least one other person who can get your medications & supplies
• At least a week-long supply of prescription medicines
• A list of all medications, allergies, and dosages
• An extra pair of glasses or extra contact lenses
• Hearing-aid batteries
• Games & activities for children

If you have pets in Mankato / Owatonna Cities, consider:

• Pet food and toys
• Toys or comfort objects
• Vet information

Some shelters will not or cannot allow pets. Ahead of an emergency, SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna Cities suggests you find out which ones will allow your 4-legged loved ones. All shelters allow service animals.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/

Mold and Mildew in Mankato and Owatonna

8/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna

SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna enjoys raising mold and mildew awareness in our community. Both mold and mildew are types of fungi. Mildew is never useful, but some kinds of fungi are okay, like mushrooms (if you like mushrooms) and some molds can be useful, like penicillin. Other kinds of mold are definitely not okay and you definitely don’t want them growing inside your home or office. SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna can help, if you discover something growing in your home or office that should not be there.

Education about the different kinds of mold and mildew in your home is important, and finding an industry expert to inspect it critical. SERVPRO© of Mankato / Owatonna recommends getting an inspection done. If you need assistance getting rid of the problem, please give SERVPRO^© of Mankato / Owatonna a shout and we would be happy to help.

For more information about Mold and Mildew visit the following helpful link.

https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

Disasters Happen. Being Prepared is Essential!

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

September is National Preparedness Month.

September is National Preparedness Month.

Being prepared for disasters is crucial to the safety of you and your loved ones. If your family or business is not equipped with an emergency plan now is the time to make one.

The American Red Cross and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security educates and empowers Americans to take some simple steps to prepare for and respond to potential emergencies, including natural disasters. Develope an escape plan for your home or business and include all routes of escape. Indicate where fire extinguishers are located, where all windows and doors are located that can be used to escape.

In this plan indicate the location of emergency supplies, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, first aid kits as well as emergency contacts and where utility shut off points are. In any fire escaping to a safe area is the most important thing you can do.  

In addition to this plan always make sure household members or business employees know exactly where to meet in case of fire and other disasters. Practice these emergency evacuation drills at least two times each year as well as testing all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.

Being prepared is essential for your safety and will benefit everyone in your family or business if you prepare now. It's easy to prepare an emergency kit and build a checklist of what you need. We at SERVPRO of Mankato / Owatonna can provide an Emergency Ready Profile if you are uncertain on how to establish one. We're just one phone call away to helping you prepare for a disaster before it happens.