Unusual Weather Phenomenon: Tornado Touches Down Near Lake Catherine?

5/21/2024 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services in Lake Catherine. Severe thunderstorms are powerful weather phenomena characterized by intense convective activity, capable of producing a variety of hazardous conditions such as strong winds, large hail, heavy rainfall, and occasionally tornadoes. While most thunderstorms do not spawn tornadoes, certain conditions can increase the likelihood of their occurrence within severe thunderstorm events.

Rare tornadoes within severe thunderstorms typically occur when specific atmospheric conditions align. These conditions often include a combination of strong wind shear, instability, moisture, and a triggering mechanism such as a frontal boundary or outflow boundary. When these factors converge, they can lead to the formation of rotating updrafts within thunderstorms, known as mesocyclones, which can subsequently produce tornadoes.

Although tornadoes are relatively rare compared to other severe weather hazards associated with thunderstorms, they can pose significant risks to life and property. They can produce extreme wind speeds and cause widespread destruction along their paths. Therefore, communities must have access to reliable weather forecasts and warnings and emergency preparedness plans in place to mitigate the potential impacts of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Call Us Today!

When your Lake Catherine home or commercial property sustains storm damage, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Candles Pose Significant Safety Hazards When Used During a Power Outage in Ingleside?

5/14/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team wants everyone in Ingleside to stay safe during a power outage. Using candles during a power outage can pose several risks and may not be the safest option for illumination. Here are some reasons why:

Fire Hazard: Candles present a significant fire hazard, especially when left unattended or near flammable materials such as curtains, papers, or furniture. Accidental knocks or drafts can cause candles to tip over, igniting nearby objects and potentially causing a fire.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Burning candles in an enclosed space, such as a small room or a poorly ventilated area, can lead to carbon monoxide accumulation (CO). Breathing in high levels of CO can be toxic and even fatal.

Risk of Burns: Candles produce an open flame that can easily cause burns, especially if children or pets are present. Accidental contact with the flame or hot wax can result in injury.

Limited Light and Duration: Candles provide limited illumination compared to electric lights, making it difficult to see and navigate in the dark. Additionally, candles have a finite burn time and may need to be replaced frequently during a prolonged power outage, increasing the risk of accidents.

Alternatives Available: Safer alternatives to candles, such as battery-powered flashlights, lanterns, or LED candles, are readily available and eliminate the risks associated with open flames.

Call Us Today!

When you have storm damage in Ingleside, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Antioch Home Exposed to Black Water Contamination During Flooding Event?

5/6/2024 (Permalink)

We restore flood damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services. Antioch residents know they can rely on our team of highly trained professionals to restore flood damage “Like it never even happened.” One of the reasons that flood damage should be professionally restored is due to the unsafe nature of floodwater.

Floodwater often carries contaminants, including bacteria, chemicals, and sewage, which can infiltrate the home and contaminate surfaces, furnishings, and belongings. Sewage backup poses a severe threat, introducing harmful pathogens and toxins into the environment. Cleanup and decontamination efforts must be thorough to ensure the safety of occupants and prevent long-term health hazards associated with exposure to contaminated water.

Water from flooding events is classified as “Black Water,” the most dangerous classification of contaminated water.

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category three, “black water” include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Call Us Today!

When you have flooding damage in Antioch, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Antioch Home Exposed to Black Water Contamination During Flooding Event?

5/6/2024 (Permalink)

We restore flood damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services in Lake Catherine. Severe thunderstorms are powerful weather phenomena characterized by intense convective activity, capable of producing a variety of hazardous conditions such as strong winds, large hail, heavy rainfall, and occasionally tornadoes. While most thunderstorms do not spawn tornadoes, certain conditions can increase the likelihood of their occurrence within severe thunderstorm events.

Rare tornadoes within severe thunderstorms typically occur when specific atmospheric conditions align. These conditions often include a combination of strong wind shear, instability, moisture, and a triggering mechanism such as a frontal boundary or outflow boundary. When these factors converge, they can lead to the formation of rotating updrafts within thunderstorms, known as mesocyclones, which can subsequently produce tornadoes.

Although tornadoes are relatively rare compared to other severe weather hazards associated with thunderstorms, they can pose significant risks to life and property. They can produce extreme wind speeds and cause widespread destruction along their paths. Therefore, communities must have access to reliable weather forecasts and warnings and emergency preparedness plans in place to mitigate the potential impacts of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Call Us Today!

When your Lake Catherine home or commercial property sustains storm damage, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help®. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Home Safety Inspection Tips for After a Power Outage in Grayslake?

4/30/2024 (Permalink)

We restore property damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

After a power outage ends, it’s crucial to inspect home appliances and systems. Our Northwest Lake County team offers these tips for inspecting your Grayslake home after power has been restored:

Electrical Systems: Inspect electrical outlets, switches, and appliances for any signs of damage or malfunction, such as scorch marks, frayed wires, or unusual odors. If necessary, reset circuit breakers and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), and ensure that all electrical components are dry before use.

HVAC Systems: Check heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for proper operation and any indications of damage.

Refrigerated and Frozen Foods: Inspect perishable foods in refrigerators and freezers for signs of spoilage, such as unusual odors or changes in texture or color. Discard any food items that may have thawed or spoiled during the outage to prevent foodborne illness.

Gas Appliances: If you have gas-powered appliances, such as stoves or water heaters, ensure that pilot lights are relit safely and that no gas leaks or unusual smells are present. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate immediately and contact the gas company or emergency services.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Check carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are functioning correctly and have not been affected by the power outage. Replace batteries if necessary and test the detectors according to manufacturer instructions.

Call Us Today!

When you have property damage in Grayslake, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Faulty Pressure Regulator Causes Pipe Failure and Water Damage in Lake Villa Home?

4/23/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team is trained and certified to mitigate and restore water damage from broken pipes in Lake Villa. Pipe failure in a home can occur for various reasons beyond typical issues like corrosion or freezing. Another reason for pipe failure is excessive pressure within the plumbing system. Two reasons for excessive pressure are faulty pressure regulators and municipal water pressure fluctuations.

Faulty Pressure Regulators:

• A pressure regulator is a device installed in the plumbing system to consistently control and maintain the water pressure
• When a pressure regulator malfunctions or becomes faulty, it may fail to regulate the pressure effectively, leading to inconsistencies in water pressure throughout the plumbing system
• Faulty pressure regulators can result in water pressure that is too high or too low, both of which can cause stress on pipes and fixtures. High water pressure can lead to bursts or leaks in pipes, while low water pressure may result in inadequate water flow for household tasks.

Municipal Water Pressure Fluctuations:

• Municipal water pressure fluctuations stem from variations in the pressure of the water supplied by the local water utility

Call Us Today!

When you have a water damage emergency in your home or commercial business in Lake Villa, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Professional Cleaning of Household Belongings Warranted After Mold Outbreak is Discovered in Antioch Home?

4/16/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold damage remediation in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team is trained and certified to clean and restore homes and businesses in Antioch that have been compromised by a mold outbreak. Our professionals use specialized techniques to ensure thorough remediation and minimize the potential for future recurrences.

Once mold begins to colonize inside a structure, the spores will rapidly move to other areas of the home. Mold thrives on all organic materials: carpeting, drapes, upholstered furniture, clothing, linens, wood, drywall, paper goods, paint, and more.

A home with a mold infestation should be professionally cleaned, along with its contents, for several critical reasons. First, mold can cause structural damage to the building over time. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to thoroughly assess the extent of mold growth, identify hidden colonies, and effectively remove them.

Also, porous materials like wood, fabric, and upholstery can absorb moisture and harbor mold, necessitating meticulous cleaning or even disposal in severe cases to prevent recontamination.

Overall, professional cleaning of the home and its contents is essential for eliminating mold, preserving property, and restoring a safe and habitable environment for occupants.

Call Us Today!

When you discover a mold outbreak in your home or commercial business in Antioch, our local Northwest Lake County team is Here to Help® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Heavy Rain Causes Flooding and Water Damage to Round Lake Beach Properties?

4/9/2024 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team restores water damage from heavy rain events in the Round Lake Beach area every year. Here’s a Google review from a recent customer:

“Please read this and know you are making the best choice possible for Mitigations after catastrophic flooding. From the very first call Scott and Charlie and their entire team will help you feel supported, they will explain every step of the way what is to be expected and what services they can perform to assist you. Your home will be so well respected, every fan, to dry things out, every mat in place to protect your floors if possible, and every wet item will be provided with superior attention. You will be able to ask questions and have a real live contact person to text or call throughout the entire process. Every detail is included with the service they will provide for you- rugs will get cleaned ( or you can send out your designer rugs to Optimum for cleaning), wet pillows and blankets will get cleaned by their providers for you, they will assist you in making piles of damaged items as well as moving other items out of the impacted area all of your treasures in one piece. Call them - they should be your first and only choice!!!” Joanne Silvertrust

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Round Lake Beach Lake has water intrusion damage from heavy rain, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Spring Rain Causes Flooding in Fox Lake Home?

4/2/2024 (Permalink)

We mitigate and restore flooding damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

A rainy spring can cause flooding in Fox Lake and other parts of Lake County. Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in flood damage mitigation and restoration services. Northwest Lake County, Illinois, like many areas in the Midwest, can experience various types of flooding during the spring months. The specific types of flooding that may occur in this region include:

River Flooding: Areas near rivers and streams, such as the Des Plaines and Fox Rivers, can be prone to flooding during the spring. Snowmelt and spring rainfall can cause these waterways to swell and overflow their banks, leading to river flooding.

Urban Flooding: Urban areas within Northwest Lake County may experience flooding due to poor drainage infrastructure, impervious surfaces, and high-water tables. Heavy rainfall during the spring can overwhelm stormwater systems, leading to street flooding and water pooling in low-lying areas.

Flash Flooding: Intense rainstorms, common during the spring, can cause flash flooding in areas with inadequate drainage and steep terrain. This flooding can occur suddenly and without much warning, posing significant risks to life and property.

Lake and Pond Flooding: Northwest Lake County has numerous lakes, ponds, and wetlands. Rising water levels from snowmelt and precipitation can lead to flooding along the shorelines of these bodies of water, potentially impacting nearby properties.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Fox Lake sustains flood damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hail From Spring Storm Damages Home in Round Lake Beach?

3/26/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team restores storm damage throughout the year in Round Lake Beach. Lake County, Illinois, experiences a transition from winter to spring during this season, resulting in various weather patterns and storms. Here are some common types of storms that can occur during the spring:

Thunderstorms: Spring often sees the development of thunderstorms. These storms can bring lightning, thunder, heavy rainfall, and gusty winds. While most spring thunderstorms are not severe, some can produce hail and even tornadoes.

Rainstorms: As temperatures gradually rise, rainstorms become more frequent. These storms can lead to localized flooding, especially if a rapid snowmelt is combined with heavy spring rain.

Snowstorms: Early spring can occasionally bring snowstorms, particularly in March. These late-season snowfalls can accumulate and impact travel and daily routines.

Hailstorms: Thunderstorms in the spring can produce hail, ranging from small pellets to larger stones. Hail can cause damage to crops, vehicles, and property.

Windstorms: Strong windstorms can develop, especially in the transition from winter to spring. These winds can down trees and power lines, potentially causing power outages.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Round Lake Beach sustains storm damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Spring Cleaning for Grayslake Businesses?

3/19/2024 (Permalink)

We provide many commercial cleaning services to keep Lake County businesses looking great!

Our Northwest Lake County team provides commercial cleaning services in Grayslake that exceed the scope of routine janitorial services. Professional deep cleaning services play a crucial role in restoring a business to "like new" conditions by addressing accumulated dirt, grime, and wear and tear that can mar a commercial space's appearance and functionality over time. Our highly trained team uses specialized equipment and techniques to rejuvenate workplaces.

Our commercial cleaning services thoroughly cleanse and sanitize all surfaces, including floors, walls, ceilings, and fixtures. We use EPA-approved cleaning agents and several cleaning techniques to remove stubborn stains, grease, and dirt, ensuring a pristine, germ-free environment.

The lifespan of many materials, like carpets and upholstery, may be extended by deep cleaning. Odors are eliminated, and fabrics and fibers are revitalized. This contributes to a fresh-smelling and more inviting and hygienic workspace.

It is important to address and clean restrooms and kitchen areas, including drains, which can accumulate significant grime and bacteria. A fresh, clean restroom and kitchen environment enhance the overall impression of the business.

Ultimately, commercial deep cleaning services can help eliminate odors, prevent the spread of disease-causing germs, and create a pristine, inviting atmosphere that employees and customers will appreciate. This enhances the image of a business and contributes to a healthier, more productive work environment.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business in Grayslake is looking dull and tired and needs deep cleaning services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

High Water Bill an Indication of Frozen Pipe Damage in Fox Lake Home?

3/12/2024 (Permalink)

We restore frozen pipe water damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our Northwest Lake County team restores frozen pipe damage often during the winter in Fox Lake. A water bill can indicate frozen pipe damage in a home through abnormal usage patterns and unexpected increases in water consumption and cost. When water pipes freeze and burst or develop leaks, they can lead to continuous water flow even when fixtures are turned off. Here's how a water bill can signal frozen pipe damage:

Unexplained Spike in Usage:  If there hasn't been a corresponding increase in water usage due to activities like watering the lawn or filling a pool, but your water bill suddenly shows a significant spike in consumption, it could be a sign of a hidden water leak caused by frozen pipes.

Constant Running Water: Frozen pipes may create small cracks or openings, allowing water to escape continuously. This constant water flow, even slowly, can add up over time and become noticeable in your water bill.

Inconsistent Usage Patterns: Reviewing your water bill over several months can reveal unusual fluctuations in water consumption during winter months. Sudden increases during cold spells could indicate frozen pipe damage, allowing water to escape.

Higher Costs: An unexpected increase in your water bill can result in higher costs that are difficult to explain based on your usual water use habits. This can be a red flag for frozen pipe damage.

Call Us Today!

When your Fox Lake home or business has frozen pipe water damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Ice Dams Cause Water Damage in Lake Catherine Home?

3/5/2024 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Ice dams are a common cause of water damage during the winter. Ice dams form at the roof's edge and can lift shingles and roofing materials as they grow. This can lead to roof damage, including cracked or broken shingles, which can allow water to penetrate the attic and interior of the house. Our local Northwest Lake County team is trained and certified to restore ice dam damage in Lake Catherine.

Here are some things you can and should not do while waiting for professional help to arrive when you have a water damage emergency:

What To Do After Flooding

• 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 After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place
• Hang furs and leather goods
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets 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 the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When your Lake Catherine home or business has water damage from ice dams, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Exploding Battery Causes Fire Damage in Fox Lake Business?

2/27/2024 (Permalink)

We are leaders in commercial fire damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lake County team responds to commercial fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Fox Lake. A battery can explode and cause fire damage in a commercial building due to thermal runaway, which occurs when certain conditions cause the battery to overheat and eventually rupture. Several factors can contribute to this hazardous situation:

Overcharging: Batteries that receive more charge than they can safely handle can overheat. This can happen due to faulty charging equipment or an incompatible charger.

Physical Damage: Batteries are sensitive to physical impacts, punctures, or external pressure. Any such damage can compromise the battery's integrity and lead to thermal runaway.

Manufacturing Defects: Poorly manufactured batteries may have defects like internal shorts or impurities that can create hotspots and trigger thermal runaway.

High Temperatures: Exposure to high temperatures, common during the summer or in hot environments, can accelerate chemical reactions within the battery, increasing the risk of thermal runaway.

Overuse and Aging: Batteries that are heavily used or have reached the end of their lifespan are more prone to malfunction and thermal runaway.

To mitigate the risk of battery-related fires, it's crucial to use high-quality batteries, adhere to manufacturer guidelines for charging, storage, and disposal, inspect batteries regularly, and ensure proper ventilation and fire prevention measures in areas where batteries are used or stored.

Call Us Today!

When your Fox Lake commercial business or home has a fire damage emergency, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Are Some Signs of Ice Dam Damage in Antioch?

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

We restore ice dam damage in Lake County 24 hours a day.

Our Northwest Lake County team restores ice dam damage every year in Antioch. Here are some signs of ice dam damage:

Icicles: Long icicles hanging from the roof's edge can be a sign of ice dams.

Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls: Water stains on interior ceilings and walls, especially near exterior walls and on the upper floors, can indicate that melted snow and ice have penetrated the roof and are causing leaks.

Dripping Water: Dripping water or the sound of dripping in your home during or after snow or ice may suggest that water is entering your living spaces through roof damage.

Gutter and Downspout Issues: Ice dam damage can cause gutters and downspouts to become dislodged or damaged as the ice pushes them away from the roof edge.

Damaged Roof Shingles: Ice dams can cause damage to the roof shingles, including lifting, cracking, or even dislodging them.

Icy Buildup: Visible ice or snow buildup on the roof, especially near the eaves, can indicate potential ice dam formation.

Damp Insulation or Attic: Inspect your attic for damp insulation and any signs of moisture or water damage in the attic space.

Exterior Damage: Look for signs of damage to the exterior of your home, such as damaged soffits, fascia boards, or exterior siding, which can occur when ice dams force water beneath these surfaces.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Antioch has ice dam damage, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Roof of Ingleside Shores Home Damaged by Weight of Accumulated Snow?

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Lake County 24 hours a day.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services in Ingleside Shores. Heavy snow loads can lead to structural damage and roof collapse, so it is crucial to know how much snow your roof can safely handle. Here is some information about roof snow loads from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety:

When it comes to the weight of snow, the type of snow is as important as the depth of the snow. For instance, fresh powder snow is typically lighter than wet-packed snow, and ice is heavier than snow.

Snow Load Danger signs

• Fresh snow– more than four feet
• Packed snow– more than two feet
• Ice– one inch or more

Several factors contribute to the acting load on your roof, including snow drifts from adjacent buildings or mechanical equipment, heavy rain on snow, and melting snow that refreezes. 

A structural engineer can be hired to verify the snow load threshold of the roofing system. This information will be important when determining if there is too much snow on the roof after a winter snowstorm.

Call Us Today!

When your Ingleside Shore home or commercial property has winter storm damage, our local team in Northwest Lake County is always Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Round Lake Beach Home Sustains Water Damage from a Burst Frozen Pipe?

2/6/2024 (Permalink)

We restore water damage in Lake County 24 hours a day.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in water damage restoration services in Round Lake Beach. Getting help right away for a water damage emergency is crucial for several reasons:

Prevent Further Damage: Water spreads quickly and can infiltrate hidden spaces, causing structural damage, electrical issues, and mold growth.

Mold Prevention: Moisture from water damage creates an ideal environment for mold growth. Mold can start to develop within 24 to 48 hours, and once it takes hold, it can rapidly spread to other areas of the structure.

Preserve Belongings: Water can damage personal belongings, documents, and furniture irreparably.

Health and Safety: Standing water poses health risks, as it can become contaminated with bacteria and pathogens.

Reduce Costs: The longer water damage goes unaddressed, the more extensive and expensive the repairs become. Swift action can lower the overall cost of restoration.

Insurance Claims: Promptly documenting and addressing water damage is essential for insurance purposes. Failing to act quickly may result in difficulties when filing a claim or receiving compensation.

Peace of Mind: Dealing with a water damage emergency can be incredibly stressful. Calling for professional help lets you focus on your safety and well-being while experts handle the situation.

Call Us Today!

When your Round Lake Beach home or commercial property has water damage from frozen pipes, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Winter Storm Causes Water Intrusion Issues in Antioch Home?

1/30/2024 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Lake County 24 hours a day.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services in Antioch. Snow can cause water intrusion issues in homes primarily through melting and ice dam formation.

Snow Melting

When outside temperatures rise, snow on a roof or near the foundation can start to melt. If the roof is poorly insulated or if there are roof leaks, the melted snow can infiltrate the home through gaps, cracks, or damaged roofing materials. This can lead to water seeping into the attic, walls, or ceilings, causing interior damage, including staining, mold growth, and compromised structural integrity.

Ice Dam Formation

In colder regions, when the upper areas of a roof warm up due to heat escaping from the house, snow on the roof can melt and refreeze at the eaves, where it's colder. This process creates ice dams, which block the flow of melting snow. As more snow melts, it can pool behind these ice dams, potentially finding its way under shingles and into the home. This can lead to ceiling and wall water damage and structural issues.

Proper insulation, ventilation, and regular roof maintenance are essential for preventing snow-related water intrusion issues in homes.

Call Us Today!

When your Antioch home or commercial property has water intrusion issues caused by a winter storm, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Please call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are independently owned and operated.

Lake Villa Home Floods Due to Broken Household Appliance?

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

We restore water damage in Lake County 24 hours a day.

Our Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in water damage restoration services in the Lake Villa area. We know that our fast emergency response, combined with our use of industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment saves our customers time and money. Broken household appliances are a common cause of water damage in homes in the United States. Here are some statistics: 

• 98 percent of basements in the United States will experience some type of water damage during their lifespans.
• 37 percent of homeowners in the United States claim to have suffered losses from water damage.
• 5 billion is the annual cost to insurance companies from water damage and mold in the United States.
• $6975 is the average cost of a home water damage insurance claim.
• The average age of failed washing machine supply line hoses is 8.7 years.
• 75 percent of water heaters fail before they are 12 years old.

14,000 people in the U.S. experience a water damage emergency at home or work each day. The most common causes of water damage are:

• Washing machine water supply line leaks
• Condensation from air conditioners
• Blocked drains
• Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
• Leaking water heaters
• Severe weather
• Clogged gutters
• Leaking pipes

Call Us Today!

When your Lake Villa home or commercial property has a water damage emergency, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Round Lake Beach Businesses Rely on Us for Winter Water Damage Emergencies?

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

We keep commercial businesses in Lake County looking their best!

Our local Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in water damage mitigation and restoration services. Businesses in Round Lake Beach, Illinois, are susceptible to various types of water damage during the winter months due to the region's cold and snowy climate:

Frozen Pipes: Subfreezing temperatures can cause water pipes to freeze and, in some cases, burst. This can result in significant water damage when the pipes thaw and release water, potentially flooding the property.

Ice Dams: Accumulation of ice dams on roofs is a common issue in cold climates. As snow melts and refreezes near the roof's edge, it can block proper drainage, leading to water seeping under roof shingles and causing leaks inside the building.

Roof Leaks: Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures can stress roofing materials, causing them to weaken or develop cracks. This can lead to roof leaks when snow and ice melt or when ice dams force water under roofing materials.

Foundation Cracks: Cold temperatures can cause the ground to freeze and expand, exerting pressure on a building's foundation. This can result in foundation cracks and water infiltration when the ground thaws.

Snowmelt Flooding: Rapid snowmelt or heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to surface flooding around commercial properties.

Burst Sprinkler Systems: If businesses have sprinkler systems, these can be vulnerable to freezing during winter. A burst sprinkler pipe can release a substantial amount of water, causing extensive damage.

Call Us Today!

When your Round Lake Beach commercial business or home has a water damage emergency of any kind, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

What Are Some Ways I Can Prevent Ice Dams from Forming on My Roof in Fox Lake?

1/9/2024 (Permalink)

We restore ice dam damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lake County team is a leader in storm damage restoration services in Fox Lake. Preventing ice dams on your roof requires a multi-faceted approach that incorporates insulation, ventilation, and vigilant maintenance. Here are some ways to keep ice dams from forming:

Effective Insulation: Ensure that your attic is properly insulated to prevent warm air from escaping your living spaces into the attic. Adequate insulation helps maintain a consistent roof temperature, discouraging snow from melting and refreezing at the roof's edges. Don't forget to insulate areas like attic access points, such as hatches and pull-down stairs, to maintain a uniform thermal barrier.

Optimal Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation is vital for maintaining a cold roof temperature. Ensure your attic has a balanced ventilation system, including intake vents along the eaves and exhaust vents near the roof's peak.

Sealing Air Leaks: Detect and seal any gaps, cracks, or holes in your attic's ceiling and walls to prevent warm air infiltration into the attic space. Pay special attention to areas surrounding fixtures, pipes, and chimneys to create an effective thermal barrier.

Snow Management: After heavy snowfalls, use a roof rake or long-handled shovel to gently remove snow from your roof. Begin at the roof's edge and work your way upward, taking care not to damage the roofing material. This proactive snow management helps prevent the accumulation of excess snow, a primary contributor to ice dams.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Fox Lake has any water damage from ice dams, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Fast Response to Frozen Pipe Water Damage Emergency in Antioch?

1/3/2024 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lake County team responds to water damage emergencies from frozen pipes often during the winter months. Restoring water damage caused by frozen pipes promptly may prevent secondary damage and more costly repairs. When pipes burst or leak due to freezing, the damage can rapidly escalate, so swift action can mitigate the extent of the damage, reducing both the scope of restoration work and associated expenses.

Fast mitigation of water damage also helps minimize the potential growth of mold and mildew. Excess moisture resulting from water damage creates the perfect environment for these harmful organisms. Mold can begin to colonize within as little as 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions.

Water can weaken essential building materials, such as drywall, wood, and insulation. If left unaddressed, this can lead to structural compromises, including sagging ceilings and buckling floors. Timely intervention is essential to safeguard the structural integrity of the building and avoid costly repairs down the line.

Delaying restoration may necessitate more extensive and expensive repairs, such as replacing entire sections of damaged materials. By acting swiftly, homeowners can minimize repair costs and prevent financial strain.

Fast mitigation also meets insurance requirements, as many policies mandate immediate mitigation of water damage. Failing to do so may result in insurance claims being denied or receiving reduced coverage, leading to higher out-of-pocket expenses.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Antioch has water damage from frozen pipes, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated.

Clogged Lint Trap Causes Clothes Dryer Fire in Lindenhurst Home?

12/27/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County!

Our local Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in fire damage restoration services in Lindenhurst. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the leading cause of home clothes dryer fires results from not cleaning them. Here are some safety tips from the NFPA to prevent a clothes dryer fire:

• Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional
• Do not use the dryer without a lint filter
• Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
• Rigid or flexible metal venting material should be used to sustain proper air flow and drying time
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.
• Keep dryers in good working order. Gas dryers should be inspected by a qualified professional to make sure that the gas line and connection are intact and free of leaks.
• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and that the machine is connected properly
• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and don’t overload your dryer
• Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed

Call Us Today!

When your Lindenhurst home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fox Lake Business Rings in the New Year with a Sparkling Clean Building?

12/19/2023 (Permalink)

We provide a full range of deep cleaning services to keep your business looking its best in Lake County!

Is your commercial business or home in Fox Lake starting to look a bit tired? Surfaces may look dull and there may be unpleasant odors that you have become “nose blind” to. Our local Northwest Lake County team is trained and certified to perform many deep cleaning services that go beyond what a routine janitorial service can do. Whether you need deep cleaning and deodorization for your carpeting and upholstery, or you need your restaurant hood degreased, we can help!

• Air Ducts and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Units (HVAC)
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

We have experience working on all kinds of commercial buildings, including:

• 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 and Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us Today!

Our technicians are certified to clean, sanitize, deodorize, and decontaminate floors and hard surfaces, walls, windows, and ceilings. We also clean carpets, drapes, upholstery, light fixtures, hood vents, drains, and more. When your Fox Lake commercial business or home needs deep cleaning services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help®. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchise is independently owned and operated.

Mold Outbreak Caused by Leaking Pipe in Lake Catherine?

12/12/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold remediation services in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lake County team is trained and certified to restore mold damage in homes and commercial properties in Lake Catherine. Mold is often a symptom of water damage, and a leaking pipe can cause a mold outbreak during the winter months.

Mold requires moisture to grow, and if a pipe is leaking, it can provide the necessary moisture for mold spores to thrive, regardless of the season. Here's how a leaking pipe in winter can contribute to mold growth:

Indoor Humidity: During the winter, indoor environments tend to have lower humidity levels due to heating systems and cold outdoor air. However, a leaking pipe can introduce moisture into the indoor environment. This added moisture can create conditions favorable for mold growth, particularly in areas where the moisture accumulates, such as walls, ceilings, or floors.

Hidden Leaks: Leaks from pipes can often go unnoticed for some time, especially if they are hidden within walls, ceilings, or under floors. In these cases, mold can start to grow in concealed areas before the leak becomes apparent.

Slow Drip: A slow, continuous leak from a pipe may not produce visible water damage or pooling water immediately, but it can provide a consistent source of moisture over time. Mold can develop gradually in response to this ongoing moisture.

Lack of Ventilation: During the winter, homes are typically sealed tightly to conserve heat, which can reduce ventilation. Poor ventilation can exacerbate mold growth because it doesn't allow moisture to dissipate as quickly, creating stagnant, humid conditions.

Call Us Today!

When your Lake Catherine home or commercial business has a mold outbreak and needs mold damage restoration services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help®. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated.

Burst Pipe in Fox Lake Home Could Have Been Prevented?

12/5/2023 (Permalink)

We are a top choice for water damage emergencies in Lake County!

Our local Northwest Lake County team responds to water damage emergencies throughout the year in Fox Lake. During the freezing winter months, frozen pipes are a common source of water damage. Preventing frozen pipes from occurring can be done in many different ways as follows:

Insulation: Properly insulating pipes in areas prone to freezing is a key preventive measure. Insulation sleeves or foam pipe wraps can help protect pipes from extreme cold.

Heating: Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, especially during freezing weather, can prevent pipes from freezing. Use space heaters in unheated areas, like basements or crawlspaces.

Dripping Faucets: Allowing faucets to drip slightly can help prevent water from stagnating in the pipes.

Sealing Cracks: Seal any gaps or cracks in walls or foundations to prevent cold air from reaching pipes.

Disconnecting Hoses: In colder months, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses to prevent water from freezing in the hose and back into the pipes.

By taking these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes and the potential damage they can cause to a home or commercial property. In extreme cold weather conditions, it's important to remain vigilant and be prepared to address frozen pipe issues quickly to mitigate damage.

Call Us Today!

When your Fox Lake home or commercial business has a water damage emergency and needs water damage restoration services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO® franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Can I Use a Hairdryer to Thaw a Frozen Pipe in My Home in Antioch?

11/27/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration services in Lake County!

Our local Northwest Lake County team has been responding to water damage emergencies in Antioch for years. One common form of water damage during the winter months comes from frozen and burst pipes. Thawing out a frozen pipe using a hairdryer is a safe and effective method if done correctly. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a hairdryer to thaw a frozen pipe:

Tools You Will Need
Hairdryer
Extension cord (if needed)
Towels or rags to catch water and insulate the area
A bucket or container to catch dripping water
A thermometer (optional) to monitor progress

Take Safety Precautions
Ensure your safety by wearing insulated gloves and eye protection.
Check the hairdryer for any frayed cords or damage before use.

Locate the Frozen Section
Identify the frozen section of the pipe. Usually, you'll find it in an area that is exposed to cold air, such as a basement, crawlspace, or an exterior wall.

Prepare the Area
Lay towels or rags around the frozen pipe to catch dripping water.
Place a bucket or container under the affected area to collect any water that may leak when the pipe thaws.

Plug in the Hairdryer and Set to a Low Heat Setting
Plug the hairdryer into a nearby electrical outlet. If the outlet is not within reach, use a suitable extension cord. Start with the hairdryer on a low or medium heat setting. High heat may cause rapid expansion and could damage the pipe.

Begin Thawing
Hold the hairdryer close to the frozen pipe, but not too close. Maintain a distance of at least 6 inches (15 centimeters) between the hairdryer and the pipe. Move the hairdryer back and forth along the frozen section of the pipe. Focus on the area closest to the faucet and work your way toward the blockage. Continue to direct warm air onto the frozen pipe, keeping it in constant motion. The heat from the hairdryer will gradually melt the ice inside the pipe.

Monitor Progress
As you work, periodically check the affected pipe's temperature with a thermometer, if available. You want to make sure it's gradually warming up. Be patient; thawing a pipe can take some time, depending on the extent of the freeze and the pipe's thickness.

Test the Faucet
Once you notice water flowing freely from the faucet, the pipe is likely thawed. Turn on the nearest faucet connected to the frozen pipe to confirm that the water is flowing smoothly. Leave the faucet on for a few minutes to flush out any remaining ice.

Remember to exercise caution when using electrical appliances around water, and if you have any doubts or concerns about dealing with frozen pipes, it's advisable to consult a service professional for assistance.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Antioch has water damage from frozen pipes and you need emergency water damage restoration services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO^® Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Water Heater Water Damage Prevented in Round Lake Beach Home?

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24 hours daily in Lake County!

Our local Northwest Lake County team is ready to respond to water damage emergencies in Round Lake Beach 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. One common cause of water damage comes from old, corroded water heaters. Here are some steps that can be taken to minimize the risk of property damage from a water heater failure:

Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual inspections and maintenance for your water heater to check for signs of wear and tear, rust, or other issues.

Install a Drain Pan: Place a drain pan underneath the water heater to catch any leaks and direct the water away from the surrounding area.

Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve: Ensure that the water heater's temperature and pressure relief valve are functioning properly and have a discharge pipe to safely release excess pressure.

Shut-Off Valve: Consider installing a shut-off valve for your water heater. This allows you to quickly cut off the water supply in case of a leak.

Fast action in the event of a water heater failure is imperative to minimize property damage. If you discover water heater damage, shut off the unit's water supply, electricity, or gas, and contact a plumbing professional and restoration service if significant damage has occurred.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Round Lake Beach has water damage and you need emergency water damage restoration services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is independently owned and operated.

SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County: Your Local Experts in Commercial Property Damage Restoration, We Are Here to Help®.

11/14/2023 (Permalink)

When commercial property damage strikes, trust SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County to restore your business and make it "Like it never even happened." Wi

When commercial property damage strikes, the impact can be overwhelming. Whether it's storm damage, water damage, or any other disaster, SERVPRO® of Northwest Lake County is your dependable local, community-based team of experienced professionals, dedicated to restoring your property and making damage "Like it never even happened."

With years of expertise, our team is well-prepared to handle commercial property damage of any magnitude. From waterlogged offices to structural issues caused by storms, we've successfully restored numerous commercial properties. We understand the urgency of getting your business operations back to normal.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to our local business community. We recognize the unique challenges faced by Northwest Lake County businesses during property damage incidents, and we're just a phone call away, ready to respond with professionalism and expertise.

Don't let commercial property damage disrupt your business. Rely on SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County, your trusted local restoration partner, to help you recover and restore your property making damage "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County is independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If I Find a Mold Outbreak in My Fox Lake Home?

11/7/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold remediation services in Lake County!

Our local Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in mold removal and restoration services. Mold outbreaks are often a symptom of a water leak or past water damage, our technicians will locate and address the excess moisture issue as part of the restoration process to discourage the mold from returning once the removal process is complete. Fox Lake residents and businesses trust us to restore their mold damage “Like it never even happened.”

Here are some tips for things you can and should not do while waiting for professional help to arrive:

What to Do

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and fans
• Contact our Crestview, DeFuniak Springs, and Chipley offices 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

What makes us a top choice for mold remediation services?

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

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Fox Lake has mold damage and you need mold remediation services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County is independently owned and operated.

Halloween Decorations Erupt in Flames from Burning Jack-o'-lanterns on Grayslake Porch?

10/24/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County!

Our local Northwest Lake County team has the training, equipment, and experience to restore fire, soot, and smoke damage, no matter how extensive the damage is. Halloween is a fun and spooky celebration that children and adults look forward to every year, and we want everyone to be safe from fire damage.

Here are some Halloween safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to keep your little (and big) monsters safe:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns
• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily. Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters.
• When using electrical lighting to decorate your home, make sure it is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights, so the cords do not get damaged
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes. Make sure all smoke alarms are working. 

For families planning to attend Halloween parties or go trick-or-treating:

• When choosing costumes, stay away from long trailing fabric that could come in contact with open flames or other heat sources
• Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them
• Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costumes

Call Us!

When your home or commercial property in Grayslake has fire damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Delayed Water Damage Remediation Causes Mold Outbreak in Lake Catherine Home?

10/17/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold damage restoration services in Lake County!

Mold problems can occur in Lake Catherine when the right combination of moisture, warmth, and organic materials are present. Our local Northwest Lake County team has the training, equipment, and experience to restore mold outbreaks in any home, no matter how extensive the damage is. We will locate the source of the excess moisture and address the issue to discourage the mold from returning once the remediation process is complete. Some of the conditions that lead to mold outbreaks are:

Poor Ventilation: Inadequate airflow and ventilation can trap moisture indoors, providing an ideal environment for mold to flourish.

Delayed Water Damage Remediation: If water damage from leaks or floods isn't promptly addressed and dried out, it can lead to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours.

Improperly Ventilated Bathrooms and Kitchens: Bathrooms and kitchens are areas of the home that generate a lot of moisture. Without proper ventilation, this moisture can contribute to mold growth.

Inadequate Insulation: Poor insulation can result in temperature fluctuations within walls and ceilings, leading to condensation and moisture buildup that can encourage mold growth.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial property in Lake Catherine has a mold outbreak and you need mold remediation services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Vandals Cause Property Damage to Store in Fox Lake?

10/10/2023 (Permalink)

We restore vandalism damage 24 hours a day in Lake County!

Fox Lake businesses rely on our local Northwest Lake County team to restore all kinds of commercial property damage quickly and efficiently. Unfortunately, vandalism is a form of property damage that every commercial business may experience. Graffiti vandals seldom return to the same place if their “work” is quickly removed. This is because they want their graffiti to be noticed, so when it is removed quickly, they will usually move on to another place.

Our technicians are trained and certified to restore vandalism and graffiti damage from all surfaces, such as:

• Driveways
• Walkways
• Asphalt
• Metals
• Wood
• Glass
• Plastic
• Masonry

Based on the nature of the damage, our technicians may restore the surface by:

• General cleaning and graffiti removal
• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Debris removal
• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Mold damage restoration
• Contents cleaning

Why are we a top choice for vandalism and graffiti damage?

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

Call Us Today!

When your business or home in Fox Lake has vandalism damage and you need restoration services fast, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your commercial property damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Lithium Battery in Smart Phone Explodes and Starts Fire in Round Lake Beach Home?

10/3/2023 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24 hours a day in Lake County!

Our local Northwest Lake County team wants everyone in Rou7nd Lake Beach to be fire-safety conscious at home. Each year, October is dedicated to Residential Fire Awareness Month, a month focused on helping people prevent home fires. According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), lithium batteries, commonly found in cellular phones, are more sensitive to physical stress than alkaline batteries and need to be handled with care. Here are some lithium battery safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Safety Tips

• Purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Only use the battery that is designed for the device.
• Put batteries in the device the right way.
• Only use the charging cord that came with the device.
• Do not charge a device under your pillow, on your bed, or on a couch.
• Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.
• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible. Do not charge them at temperatures below 32° Fahrenheit or above 105° Fahrenheit.
• Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Round Lake Beach has fire damage and you need fire damage restoration services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooding Safety Tips for Ingleside Shore Residents?

9/26/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to flood damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County!

Lake County, Illinois, receives 32 percent of annual precipitation in Autumn, making it the rainiest season of the year. Sometimes storms can blow in and drop a lot of rain at one time, causing flooding and water intrusion issues for homes and businesses.

Our local Northwest Lake County team wants everyone to be prepared for the return of the wet season and offers these tips from the Insurance Information Institute for inspecting your home’s exterior and minimizing the chances of flood damage to your home or commercial property.

Exterior Inspection and Repair 

Here are some things home and business owners can do to monitor and repair exterior damage as needed to help avoid a bigger problem later.

• Caulk and seal windows
• Inspect the roof for missing and aging shingles
• Check rain gutters and drainage systems and remove any debris
• Check downspouts and clear any clogs and make sure they are draining away from the structure
• Check sprinkler systems and make sure the sprinklers are not spraying water onto the structure and that water is not pooling around the structure’s foundation
• Make sure water drains away from the building.Water is invasive and will find its way into a structure easily when water is allowed to pool around the foundation. After a storm, or when the ground is already saturated by rainwater, the water may enter into the foundation wall through any cracks.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Ingleside Shore floods and you need water damage restoration services, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your flood damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Antioch Community Prepares for Disasters and Emergencies during National Preparedness Month?

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County!

September is National Preparedness Month, and our local Northwest Lane County team wants everyone in Antioch to be prepared for the next disaster or emergency. Severe weather or made-made disasters, like chemical spills, can happen with little or no advanced warning, so making sure communities have plans in place ensures the safety and well-being of communities when facing unexpected events.

This year the focus is on ensuring older adults have the support and resources they need to stay safe during and after a disaster or emergency. Elderly individuals are often more susceptible to the impacts of disasters. They may have physical limitations, chronic health conditions, or reduced mobility, which can hinder their ability to respond quickly or evacuate if necessary. Preparing them in advance ensures they have the necessary support and resources to overcome these challenges.

Elderly individuals may face challenges in evacuating due to mobility issues, transportation limitations, or unfamiliarity with evacuation procedures. Preparing them includes developing strategies for their safe evacuation, identifying accessible transportation options, and ensuring appropriate accommodations and support services are available at shelters.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Antioch has a storm damage emergency, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Why Are We Grayslake’s Top Choice for Storm Damage Restoration Services?

9/12/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County!

You never know when the next big storm will roll through and cause property damage, that’s why our local Northwest Lane County team is on call and ready to respond to your storm damage emergency 24 hours a day. Although Lake County has been experiencing drought conditions, when it does rain, the parched soil is unable to absorb the water, and this can contribute to flash flooding conditions. And according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, September and October will be warmer and rainier than normal, on average.

Here are some reasons we are a top choice for storm damage restoration services:

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

Restoration Services

• Storm Damage Cleanup
• Water Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Building Services

We work on all kinds of properties, including:

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

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Grayslake has storm damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Extremely Happy Flood Damage Restoration Customers in Lake Villa?

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

We restore flood damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lane County team is a leader in flood damage restoration services in Lake Villa. Here is a recent Google review from one of our valued customers:

“I am not generally in the habit of writing a review – one way or another. However, this needs to be told. My water issue spread to three floors of my house. My insurance adjuster called SERVPRO to do the mitigation on a Friday afternoon and, much to my surprise, SERVPRO promptly came out over the weekend to take down walls, lift floors, and set up fans and heaters. I was so concerned over mold spreading rapidly, but they were on it! My adjuster and Scott of SERVPRO followed up quickly. Of course, I was told that I could contract the work out myself. Wow, am I glad I didn’t as SERVPRO was so exceptional to work with. Their estimate, I believed to be fair. Different teams are certified to do different aspects of the work: there was a demolition team, and there was a rebuild team (I can’t say enough about the gentleman who replaced the drywall, Johnny! Amazing!) They cleaned up after themselves. Each team was so professional and did such quality work. They worked on my catastrophe over multiple weekends! Scott oversaw all the aspects of the work and took care of ALL the details and scheduling accordingly. In retrospect, I am so thrilled that I didn’t take on being the general contractor for this job; I would have been overwhelmed! Scott’s constant contact with me throughout the process was amazing! The competency of the SERVPRO team most definitely lessened my stress over a very stressful situation. A good price, quality work, and professionals –all in a timely manner; I couldn’t have asked for more!” Marilynn Kropp

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Lake Villa has flooding damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Air Conditioner Causes Water Damage in Fox Lake Home?

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lane County team has been restoring water damage in the Fox Lake area for years. One common cause of water damage during the summer months comes from air conditioner units. The Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety (IBHS) shares these common reasons for water damage from air conditioning units:

Condensate Drain Line Issues

Air conditioners remove moisture from the air as they cool it down. This moisture is collected in a condensate pan or tray and drained away through a condensate drain line. If the condensate drain line becomes clogged or blocked, it can cause water to overflow from the pan or tray, leading to water damage in the immediate vicinity of the unit.

Overflowing Drip Pan

Most air conditioning units have an overflow pan as an additional safeguard against water damage. If the primary drain line becomes blocked or the condensate pan malfunctions, water will overflow into the overflow pan. If the overflow pan is damaged, improperly installed, or the drain line is not connected correctly, water can escape and cause water damage.

Improper Installation

Incorrect installation of an air conditioner can result in water damage. If the unit is not leveled properly, the condensate drain line may not function correctly, causing water to pool and potentially overflow. Additionally, if the drain line is not connected securely, water can leak from the fittings, causing damage to the surrounding area.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Fox Lake has water damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Ingleside Shore Home Floods During Summer Storm?

8/22/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lane County team responds to storm damage emergencies throughout the year in Ingleside Shore. Our goal is to provide the best service and support and to create a very positive customer experience for every customer we are proud to serve. Here is a recent Google review from one of our happy customers:

“I used SERVPRO for a flood damage situation, can’t say enough how much I would recommend this team for your mitigation and renovation. Very responsive, gave great info, provided an accurate time window, comminuted well before arrival, and also made sure we stayed on schedule. Work was fantastically done and excellent pricing. Very professional and communicated with my insurance when needed. From a small amount of damage to something more substantial, use them and your project will be timely, stress-free (as much as it can be lol), and restored to the same quality as before (if not better). Kenny, Scott, and Andre were a pleasure to work with, felt very comfortable with this company.” Mary

Services: Flood restoration, Remodeling, Flood cleanup, Water removal, Flooring, Water damage-related cleanup & repair, Painting

Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Ingleside Shore has storm damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your flood damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Lighting Equipment Causes Fire Damage in Lake Catherine Home?

8/14/2023 (Permalink)

We are certified to restore fire, smoke, and soot damage in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lane County team responds to fire damage emergencies every year in Lake Catherine. Every fire event leaves behind a unique smoke, soot, and debris signature that requires professionals to completely clean and remove the smoke odor. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to restore fire damage to pre-damage conditions effectively.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical distribution and lighting equipment were responsible for an estimated average of 32,160 home fires every year from 2015 to 2019.

• These fires caused an estimated average of 430 civilian deaths and 1,070 civilian injuries each year in 2015-2019, as well as an estimated $1.3 billion in direct property damage a year
• Home fires involving electrical distribution and lighting equipment most often originated in a bedroom
• Wiring and related equipment were involved in just over two-thirds of home fires caused by the electrical distribution and lighting equipment
• Approximately one-quarter of these fires occurred between midnight and 8 a.m., but they accounted for just over half of the deaths

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Lake Catherine has fire damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Excessive Heat Alert Issued for Lindenhurst?

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County.

If you live in the Lindenhurst area, you know that summer weather can change quickly and sometimes with little advanced warning. Our local Northwest Lane County team responds to storm damage emergencies every summer. Excessive heat is another form of extreme weather we face in Lake County. Here are some tips from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to stay cool during an excessive heat warning:

Remember:

• Extreme heat can occur quickly and without warning
• Older adults, children, and sick or overweight individuals are at greater risk from extreme heat
• Humidity increases the feeling of heat as measured by a heat index

If you are under an extreme heat warning:

• Find air conditioning
• Avoid strenuous activities
• Wear light clothing
• Check on family members and neighbors
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke
• Never leave people or pets in a closed car

Call Us!

You never know when the next big storm will blow through and cause property damage. When your home or commercial business in Lindenhurst has a storm damage emergency, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We typically arrive within four hours of your call. We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Antioch Business Needs Emergency Water Damage Services?

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

We restore commercial water damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County teams have the training, equipment, and experience to quickly mitigate and restore commercial properties damaged by water. Water damage, when left untreated, can cause significant damage to a property within hours. Here are some descriptions of the damage water can do to a property:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, 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

48 Hours to 1 Week

• Mold and mildew may 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
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Antioch has a water damage emergency, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore the water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fox Lake Home Flooded by Cracked Dishwasher Water Supply Line?

7/25/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local North Eugene and Northwest Lane County teams are leaders in water damage restoration services in Fox Lake. Each year there are over 14,000 water damage insurance claims made in the United States, and many of these claims are the result of a cracked hose or an appliance water supply line.

Here are some tips from the Insurance Information Institute to help you maintain your home appliances and indoor plumbing systems to minimize the chances of water damage:

• Inspect appliance hoses and faucets. Make it a practice every year to check hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerator ice makers. Immediately replace any hoses that have cracks or leaks and replace them all every five to seven years.
• When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine. Never leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.
• Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home. A damaged hose or a burst pipe can send water racing into your home. Knowing how to locate and shut off the main water supply quickly will save stress, money, and time.
• Check plumbing and heating pipes. Look closely for cracks and leaks and have any necessary repairs made immediately.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Fox Lake has water damage from a failed appliance, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Is Your Round Lake Beach Property Ready to Withstand a Summer Storm?

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Storms can cause damage in Round Lake Beach at any time of the year, but there are some things that can be done to minimize the chances of property damage. Our local North Eugene and Northwest Lane County teams restore storm damage throughout the year and offer these tips from the National Weather Service (NWS) for preparing for strong winds:

• Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines
• Secure loose gutters and shutters
• Identify an interior room of your house, such as an interior bathroom, that you can take shelter in during high wind warnings
• If you live in a mobile home, identify a sturdy building you can go to if the NWS issues a high wind or severe thunderstorm warning
• Charge batteries of all essential items such as cell phones and booster packs, weather radios, and power tools such as a reciprocating saw, which you may need to clear debris
• Update your emergency kit and be sure to include enough food and water to last for three days for each person in your home
• Make a list of items outside your home you will need to tie down or put away so that they don’t blow over or fly away through a window. When NWS issues a high wind or severe thunderstorm watch, immediately secure these items to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Round Lake Beach has storm damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Comprehensive Fire Damage Restoration Process in Fox Lake?

7/11/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Fox Lake residents and businesses rely on our local North Eugene and Northwest Lane County teams to restore fire damage “Like it never even happened.” We follow this seven-step restoration process for every customer we serve:

Step 1: Emergency Contact

Our representative will ask questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate equipment and resources. 

Step 2: Inspection and Assessment

Step 3: Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service

We will board up missing windows and walls and place tarps on damaged roofs. 

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes most of the water. We then use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items. We’re also trained to remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 7: Restoration

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.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Fox Lake has fire damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Third Lake Home Damaged by Powerful Winds?

7/5/2023 (Permalink)

Lake County residents rely on to restore storm damage 24 hours a day.

Summer storms are known to occur in Lake County, and Third Lake residents can rely on our local Northwest Lake County team to respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Strong winds can result from thunderstorms, and thunderstorms can cause heavy rain, hail and can turn into tornadoes under the right conditions. Here is some information on types of winds and wind alerts National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:

High Wind Warning: Take Action! Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel.

High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside.

Wind Advisory: Take Action: Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High Wind Warning. Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving.  

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! A thunderstorm is happening or is imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have wind gusts of 58 miles per hour and or hail one inch or larger. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Third Lake has storm damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your property damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Mold Problem Discovered in Lake Villa Home?

6/27/2023 (Permalink)

Lake County residents rely on us for mold remediation services.

Lake Villa residents know they can always count on our local Northwest Lake County team to restore mold damage quickly and efficiently. Moisture in the home is the most common cause of mold damage. The Illinois Department of Health offers this helpful information about some of the ways homes are exposed to moisture:

• Plumbing, flashing, and roof leaks
• Damp basements and crawlspaces
• Cooking, showering, and indoor line drying of clothes
• Humidifiers
• Improperly vented combustion appliances and clothes dryers
• Flooding and sewer backups
• Poorly maintained gutters, downspouts, and drains
• Landscaping and plants that block crawlspace vents and drainage systems

Microscopic mold spores are always present in the air, waiting for the perfect conditions to land and colonize. When there is excess moisture and organic materials to feed on, mold can become visible in as little as 48 to 72 hours and it can spread quickly to other areas of the home. Mold feeds on almost anything, including paper, carpet, wood, drywall, insulation, paint, and mattresses.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Lake Villa has a mold issue, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Long Lake Home Suffers Water Damage in Recent Storm?

6/20/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in water damage restoration services in Long Lake. Our technicians undergo initial and continuous education and training to stay current with industry best practices in the cleaning and restoration industries.

We are a top choice for water restoration and repair because our commitment to service with excellence drives everything we do. We invest heavily in training programs for our team. Our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to clean and restore any form of property damage in Ingleside.

Our training program includes:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

e-Learnings

Everyone on our staff - from the office team to our field technicians - has access to web-based training. This training is voluntary and is designed to be an ongoing training series for our employees. Training courses feature video presentations and support materials, followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. Ongoing education keeps our office team and technicians current on new industry standards and best practices for the cleaning and restoration industry.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Long Lake has water damage, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Clothes Dryer Catches Fire in Antioch Home?

6/13/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lake County team responds to fire damage emergencies in Antioch 24 hours a day. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical fires are one of the leading causes of fire damage in the United States. Even a small, contained dryer fire machine can cause lots of smoke and soot damage to the rest of the house. Here are some clothes dryer fire statistics from the NFPA:

• In 2010-2014, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 15,970 home structure fires involving clothes dryers or washing machines each year
• These fires caused annual averages of 13 civilian deaths, 444 civilian injuries, and $238 million in direct property damage
• The vast majority of fires (92 percent) involved clothes dryers
• The leading items first ignited in dryer fires were dust, fiber, or lint (26 percent of the total) and clothing (26 percent), while items first ignited in washing machine fires were part of the appliance itself, including wire or cable insulation (26 percent), appliance housing or casing (24 percent, and drive belt (11percent)

 Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage in your Antioch home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Thunderstorm Safety Tips for Round Lake Beach Residents?

6/6/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Do you know you can be struck by lightning while indoors? Our local Northwest Lake County team responds to storm damage emergencies in Round Lake Beach and offers these tips from the National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for staying safe during a thunderstorm:

Indoor safety precautions

About one-third of lightning-strike injuries occur indoors. Here are some tips to keep safe and reduce your risk of being struck by lightning while indoors.

• Avoid contact with water during a thunderstorm. Do NOT bathe, shower, wash dishes, or have any other contact with water during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through plumbing.
• Avoid using electronic equipment of all types. Do NOT use anything connected to an electrical outlet, such as computers, laptops, game systems, washers, dryers, or stoves. Lightning can travel through electrical systems and radio and television reception systems.
• Avoid using corded phones. Corded phones are NOT safe to use during a thunderstorm. However, cordless or cellular phones are safe to use during a storm.
• Do NOT lie on concrete floors or lean on concrete walls during a thunderstorm. Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring.

Lightning strikes may be rare, but they still happen, and the risk of serious injury or death is severe. Take thunderstorms seriously. Learn and follow the above safety rules to keep yourself safe from lightning.

Call Us Today!

When you have storm damage in your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Are You Ready for a Flooding Event in Fox Lake?

5/30/2023 (Permalink)

We restore flood damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lake County team is a trusted leader in storm damage restoration services in Fox Lake. Here are some flood safety tips from the Illinois Department of Public Health:

These basic precautions can help to prevent disease:

• Minimize skin contact with sewer water, especially cuts, and sores. Keep them clean and covered.
• Do not allow children to play in areas contaminated by sewage overflows 
• Do not eat or drink anything exposed to sewer water
• Keep contaminated objects, water, and hands away from your mouth, eyes, and nose
• Wash hands frequently, especially after bathroom use, before eating and immediately following contact with sewer water or contaminated objects or surfaces

Take the following precautions to prevent injury:

• Turn off main power switches if necessary. Air out and wipe dry all appliances and electrical outlets exposed to water before use. 
• If you have fuel oil or gas systems, be sure tanks are secure and all lines are free from breaks 
• Wear rubber boots, gloves, and an N95 or HEPA respirator mask during removal and cleanup
• Open windows if possible to ventilate and dry the area. Fans can be used to help with drying.
• Keep children from playing in flood and sewer water 

Call Us Today!

When you have a flooding or other storm damage emergency in your Fox Lake home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flash Flood Alert Issued for Lake County?

5/23/2023 (Permalink)

We restore flood damage 24 hours a day in Round Lake Beach.

Our local Northwest Lake County team responds to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Round Lake Beach. We know that our fast emergency response time and use of powerful water extraction and drying equipment saves our customers time and money in many cases.

According to the Lake County, Illinois website, roughly 20 percent of the county is covered by surface water from streams, lakes, wetlands, and floodplains. Since most storms approach Lake County from the west, the western side of the house should not be overlooked.

Here are some flood-proofing tips for foundations and basements from the Lake County website:

Inspecting Foundation and Repairing Cracks

Take time to thoroughly inspect the foundation of your home and make repairs where necessary. What to look for when waterproofing your basement:

1. Wall crack repair/sealing
2. Cove seepage
3. Leaking mortar block joints
4. Sump pump issues/impeller; battery back-up; capacity; discharge location/routing (the longer and smaller the discharge hose, the less water can be pumped through it)
5. Leaking windows
6. Window well filling

Call Us Today!

When you have a flooding or other storm damage emergency in your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Spring Storm Knocks Out Power in Grayslake?

5/16/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local Northwest Lake County team responds to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County. Grayslake residents know they can rely on us to restore storm damage “Like it never even happened.” The United States Department of Agriculture offers these helpful tips for food safety during a power outage:

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed
• The refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours. If the power is off longer, you can transfer food to a cooler and fill it with ice or frozen gel packs. Make sure there is enough ice to keep food in the cooler at 40°F or below. Add more ice to the cooler as it begins to melt.
• A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full)
• Obtain dry ice or block ice if your power is going to be out for a prolonged period. Fifty pounds of dry ice should hold an 18-cubic-foot freezer for 2 days. (Caution: Do not touch dry ice with bare hands or place it in direct contact with food.)
• In freezers, food in the front, in the door, or in small, thin packages will defrost faster than large, thick items or food in the back or bottom of the unit

Call Us Today!

When you discover storm damage in your Grayslake home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Expect When I Call for Help for a Broken Pipe in Antioch?

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County responds to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day. When you notice water damage in your home or business, the first step is to call us. Our local team is on standby to respond to your call for help. Water is invasive and can cause severe damage in as little as one to two hours. Fast action is necessary to avoid further damage and more costly and time-consuming repairs.

When you call, we will ask you questions regarding the nature of your water damage emergency. These questions will tell us how many people and what equipment and resources to bring.

Here are the questions we will ask:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Water Damage Restoration Process

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

Call Us Today!

When you have a water damage emergency in your Antioch home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Water Intrusion Causes Mold Outbreak in Round Lake Beach Home?

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore mold damage in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County is a trusted leader in mold mitigation and removal services. Round Lake Beach residents and businesses have had their share of rain this season, and mold is often a byproduct of excess moisture or water intrusion issues. Here is some information from our website about 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 air conditioning and 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. 
• 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.

Call Us Today!

When you discover mold growing in your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fox Lake Home Flooded During Recent Storm?

4/25/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County responds to storm damage emergencies in Fox Lake and we want everyone to be safe in the event of a flooding situation. Here is some information from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration about flash flood watches, flash flood warnings, and flood watches:

Flood Watch

Be Prepared. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flood Warning

Take action! A Flood Warning is issued when a hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flash Flood Warning

Take action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

Call Us Today!

When you experience flooding in your Fox Lake home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Extremely Happy Water Damage Customers in Ingleside?

4/18/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Broken pipes can cause water damage to happen at any time of the day or night. Our team in Northwest Lake County is committed to providing the best support and service to all of our valued customers in Ingleside. Here is a Google review from one of our water damage customers:

“The team at SERVPRO, specifically Scott and Drake, is a cut above your average mitigation and restoration company. In your time of need, you need a team that can react in an emergency — Scott and Drake showed up within the hour on site. You want to trust the years of combined experience their team brings into any project — because as a homeowner you are trying to stop the bleeding and take immediate action — you don’t have time for guesswork and bozos with a limited understanding of the most basic steps, you will want to be comforted by someone with experience leading the project.

SERVPRO brought drying and mitigation equipment, their technology is modern, they took detailed notes, helped with the insurance calls, and intercepted most communication related to the project. In effect, they managed the entire project from crisis to mitigation, to claim and administrative work, and finally to restoration. Thanks for all your help!” Alexandru Popa

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have a broken pipe emergency in Ingleside. We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can I Stay Safe During a Power Outage in Lake Catherine?

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Severe storms can cause power outages in Lake Catherine homes or commercial businesses. Our team in Northwest Lake County offers these tips from the Red Cross for things you can do during a power outage:

Keep food as safe as possible

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. First, use perishable food from the refrigerator. An unopened refrigerator will keep foods cold for about four hours.
• Then use food from the freezer. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed.
• Use your non-perishable foods and staples after using food from the refrigerator and freezer
• If it looks like the power outage will continue beyond a day, prepare a cooler with ice for your freezer items
• Keep food in a dry, cool spot and keep it covered at all times

Electrical equipment

• Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics
• Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment, or electronics you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment.
• Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back on.
• Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic lights will be out and roads will be congested.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have storm damage in Lake Catherine. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Heavy Rains Flood a Home in Fox Lake?

4/3/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County responds to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Fox Lake. We know that our fast emergency response time saves our customers time and money by avoiding more time-consuming repairs in many cases. Water entering a home will seep into any porous surface in its path, causing significant damage quickly.

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, 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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may 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
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when heavy rains cause storm damage in your Fox Lake home or commercial property. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to restore storm and water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Soot Damage From Furnace Puff Back in Grayslake Home?

3/28/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in soot damage restoration services in Lake County.

If you have an oil-burning furnace that hasn’t been serviced lately, you may find your walls covered in soot from a furnace puff back. A severe puff back can send soot throughout your home or business, covering everything with oily soot. Our local team in Northwest Lake County cleans and restores properties compromised by furnace puff backs.

Furnace puff back symptoms:

·      Odors, noises, and soot around the boiler or furnace room

·      Visual signs of debris. The heating system needs to be cleaned and serviced if you see soot, rust flakes, and debris in the flue vent connector.

Factors that affect how far the soot can travel include:

• The connection between the heater and the building
• The layout of the building
• Open and closed doors
• The routing of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ducts

Fire Damage Restoration Services

Every fire damage situation is unique and requires a different solution, but the general process stays the same.

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment
3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service (if needed)
4. Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces
6. Cleaning and Repair
7. Restoration

Call Us!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have soot damage in your Grayslake home or commercial property. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to restore soot damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooded Street Floods Business in Antioch?

3/21/2023 (Permalink)

We restore commercial water damage 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County is a trusted leader in commercial water damage restoration services. Stormwater intrusion, plumbing systems, and appliances can fail at any time and cause water damage to your business or home. Our restoration technicians have the advanced training, state-of-the-art equipment, and experience to restore any size water loss quickly and efficiently and with minimal disruption to your employees and customers, or family.

The Insurance Institute for Business Home and Safety suggests that businesses and homeowners:

• Provide a reliable backup power source to ensure continuous power to the building
• Install an automatic excess flow switch on the main incoming domestic water line to monitor and provide early detection of a broken pipe or valve. Use wireless sensors near water sources.
• Monitor sprinkler systems using a central station to provide early detection of a pipe failure and heat unheated sprinkler control rooms

Call Us Today!

Water damage happens at all times of the day and night and can become a costly repair if not addressed quickly. Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have water damage in your Antioch business or home. Our technicians are on call and ready to respond to your emergency 24 hours a day and typically arrive within four hours of your call. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Broken Pipe Floods Home in Fox Lake?

3/14/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County is a trusted leader in water damage restoration services. This time of year, many people in Fox Lake experience issues with broken pipes. Our technicians use advanced technology and powerful, industrial-grade equipment to remove the bulk of the water quickly and dry the areas thoroughly.

Moisture Detection and Measurement

• Surface moisture meters
• Infrared imagery
• Evasive moisture detectors
• Video borescope

Water Extraction Equipment

We use powerful extraction equipment to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have water damage in your Fox Lake home or commercial business. Our technicians are on call and ready to respond to your emergency 24 hours a day. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Candle Causes Fire Damage in Round Lake Beach?

3/7/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Round Lake Beach Residents Need to Know

Candles can create a festive atmosphere for any occasion, but they can also cause fire damage. Our local team in Northwest Lake County offers these candle safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association: 

• Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed. Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep. 
• Keep candles at least 1 foot away from anything that can burn 
• Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily 
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface Light candles carefully, and keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame 

• Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container 
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home 
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles. 
• Think about using flameless candles in your home. They look and smell like real candles. 

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have fire damage in your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business. Our technicians are on call and ready to respond to your emergency 24 hours a day. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Are You Prepared for the Next Power Outage in Lake Catherine?

2/28/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

The winters can be harsh in Lake County and Lake Catherine residents can prepare ahead of time for power outages. Our local team in Northwest Lake County offers this information for preparing for a power outage from the Red Cross:

Create a support network. Identify people who can help you stay at home or evacuate during an extended power outage. Keep a paper copy of your contact list.

Stay connected and alert. Sign up for alert systems and apps for text alerts. Have communication devices that work without home power, including a crank or battery radio, a non-cordless home phone, chargers, and batteries for your cell phones and your computers.

Stock food and water. Store non-perishable food and water supplies for at least two weeks. Plan to use coolers and ice to extend food refrigeration and keep a thermometer in the fridge, freezer, or cooler to monitor the food temperature.

Know and plan for your personal and medical electrical needs. Take an inventory of your electrical needs. Consider backup and non-power alternatives for lighting, communication, medical devices, refrigerated medicine, cooking, garage doors, locks, and elevators. Discuss a plan with your doctors for your medical needs.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have storm damage in your Lake Catherine home or commercial business. Our technicians are on call and ready to respond to your emergency 24 hours a day. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Freezing Temperatures Cause Frostbite in Grayslake?

2/21/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County responds to storm damage emergencies every winter. Grayslake has 132 days each year where the nighttime low temperature falls below freezing, which is colder than most places in Illinois. Here is some information about frostbite and hypothermia from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes.

Signs: Numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, firm or waxy skin.

Actions: Go to a warm room. Soak in warm water. Use body heat to warm. Do not massage or use a heating pad.

Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature. A temperature below 95 degrees is an emergency.

Signs: Shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, or drowsiness.

Actions: Go to a warm room. Warm the center of the body first—chest, neck, head, and groin. Keep dry and wrapped up in warm blankets, including the head and neck.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have storm damage in your Grayslake home or commercial business. Our technicians are on call and ready to respond to your emergency 24 hours a day and we typically arrive on-site within four hours of your call for help. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can Ice Dams Damage My Roof in Round Lake Beach?

2/14/2023 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County.

Ice dams are a common challenge during the freezing winter months in Round Lake Beach. Our local team in Northwest Lake County witnesses the damage ice dams can do to a home. The National Weather Service reports that ice dams result when heavy snow buildup melts during the day and then refreezes when temperatures drop overnight. After several days of melting and freezing cycles, the melted water can build up under the shingles and enter the attic, eventually damaging ceilings, walls, and household contents.

There are two common ways ice dams cause damage to roofs.

Freezing Water

Freezing water can damage the roof because it expands and can tear the sealing points along its edge when it freezes. Additionally, large icicles can accumulate at the roof’s edge, and the weight of the icicles can damage the roof and the rain gutter.

Pooling Water

If water pools behind an ice dam, it may seep into your home because it has nowhere to drain. Pooling water can cause extensive damage to the structure of the building as well as to the insulation, drywall, and electrical systems.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have storm damage in your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If I Discover Frozen Pipes in my Fox Lake Home?

2/7/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

During the freezing winters, pipes freeze, and they can burst and cause significant water damage if they are not thawed. Our local team in Northwest Lake County offers these tips from the Red Cross for preventing and thawing frozen pipes:

• If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will start to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or another open flame device.
• Apply heat until the full water pressure is restored. If you cannot locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have a water damage emergency in your Fox Lake home or commercial business. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Move-Out and Pack-Out Services in Ingleside?

1/31/2023 (Permalink)

We offer services to move your belongings offsite during the restoration process in Lake County.

When my home was damaged by fire in Ingleside, the damage was extensive in some rooms, and the contents had to be moved out in order to complete the restoration. The fire did not damage some items and required offsite storage, but others needed to be restored. I was happy to find that my insurance covered these services and that the local team in Northwest Lake County provided these services. The team helped me pack and move out all of the belongings in the house. This allowed the restoration process to move quickly, and we moved back into the house sooner than we thought!

Sometimes during a restoration, household items will need to be moved offsite so that the work can be completed. Our local team in Northwest Lake County offers the convenience of move-out and pack-out services.

We can conduct an organized, efficient move-out of the affected area when your home requires extensive restoration or cleaning due to fire damage. Move-out will provide several benefits, including:

• A quicker remodeling process
• Protecting items from potential damage
• Protecting contents from further on-site damage

Once the restoration is completed, we will work with you to coordinate the move-in according to your needs. The services offered upon move-in may depend on your insurance coverage.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you need move-out and pack-out services in your Ingleside home or commercial business. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Generator Maintenance Tips for Fox Lake Businesses?

1/24/2023 (Permalink)

We restore commercial property damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County is on call and ready to assist businesses with property damage emergencies every hour of the day, 365 days a year, in Fox Lake. A backup generator in good working condition will enable your business to remain open when a power outage occurs. Here are some tips from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety to prepare for inclement weather by servicing your generator:

The time to maintain a generator is well before a major storm or disaster strikes (when professional assistance may be unavailable, power lines are down, and access roads are blocked). Backup power can help maintain a consistent building temperature and reduce the risk of freezing pipes leading to business disruption and damage. 

Portable 

• Store in a dry location
• Set up a maintenance schedule to include periodic test runs for the unit 

Permanent

• Permanent generators should have a proper maintenance plan that includes weekly, monthly, and annual checks. See the manufacturer’s specifications for more information.  
• Run the unit weekly on its maintenance plan to ensure it is properly functioning in case of an emergency. Individual units may have a timer that allows a programmed test to be scheduled, and qualified personnel should oversee these scheduled weekly tests.  
• Check the generator enclosure for loose debris or other conditions that could cause the unit not to function properly.  

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have a storm damage emergency in your Fox Lake business or home. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Ingleside Shore Property Damaged by Ice Dam?

1/17/2023 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage quickly and efficiently in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County often responds to storm damage emergencies in Ingleside Shore during winter. One common form of winter property damage comes from ice dams building up on roofs. Here is some information from the National Weather Service for preventing ice dams:

• If you haven’t already, thoroughly clean all leaves, sticks, and other debris from your home’s gutters and downspouts. This allows melting snow to flow into gutters and downspouts.
• Make every effort to keep snow on your roof to a minimum. Long-handled devices on the market called “roof rakes” let you stand on the ground and pull the snow off the roof. Keeping heavy snow loads off your roof reduces the chances of ice dam formation and roof failure due to the weight.
• All winter long, keep gutters and downspouts clear of snow and icicles.
• Evaluate the insulation and ventilation in your attic. Most experts agree that the T=R-value of the attic insulation should be at least R-30 (R-38 is preferable in northern climates). In addition, good airflow under the eaves or soffit area along the underside of the roof and out through the vents is essential. The venting allows the attic air to stay cold enough to prevent or minimize the freeze/thaw cycle on the roof.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when you have a storm damage emergency in your Ingleside Shore home or commercial business. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Equipment is Used to Remove Smoke Residue and Odor in Antioch?

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

We restore smoke damage quickly and efficiently in Lake County.

Antioch residents need to know about these services.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County restores smoke damage using a variety of cleaning methods, techniques, and specialized equipment. The smoke residue leaves a unique signature based on what burned in the fire, so we pretest every item before cleaning to ensure we are using the most effective cleaning method. Here are some examples of the equipment we use to restore smoke damage:

• Air Scrubber or Filter: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system air scrubber or HEPA air purifier captures larger smoke molecules. There will still be some residual odor from smaller molecules or surface residues.
• Ozone Generator: An ozone generator is a fast and highly effective smoke odor restoration method. These machines emit ozone, which follows the same paths through the air as smoke and oxidizes any residual traces in the air or on surfaces.
• Thermal Fogging: An intensive treatment involving fogging machines. After residents evacuate, smoke cleaning professionals fill a structure with petroleum distillates that neutralize odors, and then they ventilate the area.
• Hydroxyl Generator:These machines rely on ultraviolet light to generate hydroxyl radicals that eliminate smoke odors. It will take about three to five days of continuous operation to achieve the same results as a single ozone treatment.
• Vapor Modification: This odor elimination method relies on aromatic compounds and a blower or fan to neutralize smoke odor.

Call Us Today!

Our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® when you have smoke damage in your Antioch home or commercial business. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Will My Water-Damaged Belongings be Cleaned in Ingleside?

1/3/2023 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Ingleside residents want to know about these services.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County offers a full range of cleaning services to clean and restore water-damage belongings. After we have extracted the water and dried the area, we clean, sanitize, and deodorize everything exposed to the water. Here is some information from our website describing these processes:

Contents Restoration

We pretest every item before cleaning to ensure we use the most effective cleaning method.

• Wet Cleaning
• Dry Cleaning
• Spray and Wipe
• Foam Cleaning
• Abrasive Cleaning
• Immersion Cleaning

Odor Removal and Deodorization

We identify and eliminate offensive odors. Our technical expertise, industrial-grade air scrubbers, and fogging equipment go beyond simply masking odors and other shortcuts that don’t work when your odor problem is severe or persistent.

• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Air Scrubbers and Fogging Equipment

Sanitizing Treatments

When required, we use antimicrobial, antibacterial, or disinfectant treatments to clean your property.

• Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Treatments
• Sanitizing and Disinfectant Treatments

Disposal

We will remove and dispose of damaged materials with guidance from you and your insurance adjuster.

• Properly Dispose of Refuse

Call Us Today!

You never know when you’ll have a water damage emergency in your home or business in Ingleside, but when you do, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Faster to Any Size Disaster in Lindenhurst?

12/27/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to property damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County restores property damage every year in Lindenhurst. Storm damage, water damage, fire damage, and mold issues require fast action to mitigate and minimize the chances for more extensive and costly repairs. We follow the one-four-eight-hour rule, meaning:

One hour: we will respond to your call within one hour or less

Four hours: we will be onsite within four hours of your call

Eight hours: we will contact your insurance adjuster within eight hours of your call

Disasters can be stressful and chaotic. We will always treat you and your loved ones with empathy and respect and treat your belongings with great care and consideration. We have relationships with many insurance companies and will help you with the insurance process and paperwork. No matter what kind of property damage you face, you can always rely on us to help you make an informed decision and keep you informed on our progress until the job is complete.

Call Us!

You never know when a property damage emergency will happen. When you discover property damage in your Lindenhurst home or commercial business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Are Your Pipes Protected From Freezing in Grayslake?

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County wants Grayslake businesses to be prepared for freezing weather. Here is some information from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety?for preventing commercial pipes from freezing this winter: 

• Inspect and seal or repair all cracks, holes, leaks, windows, doors, and other openings on exterior walls with caulk or insulation to prevent cold air from penetrating the wall cavity? 
• Insulate and seal around attic penetrations such as partition walls, vents, plumbing stacks, and electric and mechanical chases? 
• Ensure your pipes in hard-to-reach places like attics, crawl spaces, and outside walls are insulated—wrap pipes and faucets in unheated or minimally heated areas of the building? 

• Make sure your existing freeze-protection devices and alarms are in good working order. Test freeze stats (low-temperature sensing device) and valves before the weather gets cold.? 
• Pipes leading to the exterior should be shut off and drained at the start of winter. If these exterior faucets do not have a shut-off valve inside the building, have one installed by a plumber.?? 
• Hire a licensed fire protection specialist to conduct routine maintenance on your sprinkler system. Discuss the system’s exposure to winter weather and potential mitigation options.?? 

Call Us Today! 

When you have a property damage emergency in your Grayslake commercial business or home, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.  

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

Are You Ready For a Big Storm in Lake Villa?

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County responds to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake Villa. We recently traveled to Naples, Florida, to repair storm damage done to Crackle Cottage after hurricane Ian came through. We are proud to be part of a national network of over 2000 franchises that can mobilize quickly to anywhere in the United States when a major storm event occurs. Here is a Google review from the project manager about the work we did at Crackle Cottage: 

“My name is Cathy Shaw. I oversee the project at crackle cottage in Naples after hurricane Ian came through. This team is taking super care of this old Florida home. This team is very responsive to every question we have, situations in the aftermath of a storm of this magnitude can leave one very frazzled and weary, but Scott, Drake, and this wonderful crew are the very best! Thank you, SERVPRO, for sending us these heroes!” Cathy Shaw 

Positive:?Professionalism,?Responsiveness 

Services:?Flood restoration,?Water removal,?Water damage-related mold removal,?Flood cleanup 

Call Us Today! 

When you have storm damage in your Lake Villa home or business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.  

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

What Are the Top Causes of Fire Damage in Round Lake Beach?

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration services in Lake County.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that most home fires and fire casualties result from five sources: cooking, heating, electrical distribution, lighting equipment, intentional fire setting, and smoking materials. Our local team in Northwest Lake County has been restoring fire damage for Round Lake Beach residents for years. Here are some more statistics from the NFPA related to fire damage:

• More than one-quarter (26 percent) of reported fires in 2015-2019 occurred in homes. Even worse, three-quarters (75 percent) of civilian fire deaths and almost three-quarters (72 percent) of all reported injuries were caused by home fires.
• During these five years, United States fire departments responded to an estimated average of 346,800 home structure fires per year. These fires caused an annual average of 2,620 civilian deaths, 11,070 civilian fire injuries, and $7.3 billion in direct property damage.
• Over the five years of 2015–2019, cooking was the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, while smoking was the leading cause of home fire deaths.

Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage in your Round Lake Beach home or business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Comprehensive Mold Remediation Process Used in Lake Villa Homes?

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

We mitigate and restore mold damage in Lake County. Key Words:

When you discover mold growing in your Lake Villa home, our team in Northwest Lake County can help. We follow the same thorough process for every mold remediation client we serve as follows:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

We follow local and state laws regarding inspection and documentation based on your unique situation.

3. Mold Containment

We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to prevent mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

4. Air Filtration

We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

We use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. We remove and dispose of mold-infested porous materials when remediating heavy mold growth.

6. Cleaning Contents

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We also remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

7. Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or it may require the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. 

Call Us Today!

When you have a mold problem in your Lake Villa home or business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Do You Have an Evacuation Plan in Place for Your Pets in Grayslake?

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Lake County 24-hours a day.

You never know when a major storm or natural disaster will require you to evacuate your home in Grayslake. Our team in Northwest Lake County offers these helpful pet safety tips for situations when you need to evacuate:

• Make sure your pets are included in your family’s evacuation plan
• Build an evacuation kit for each pet in your household
• Ensure each kit is a size and weight that can be quickly loaded into a vehicle when packing to evacuate

Include supplies for your pet in your emergency kit or assemble an emergency kit for your pet. Here are some pet emergency kit tips from the American Red Cross:

• Sturdy leashes and harnesses
• Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter/pan, and a manual can opener
• Medications and copies of medical records
• A first-aid kit
• Current photos of you with your pet(s) in case they get lost
• Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets
• Pet beds and toys, if easily transportable

Call Us!

When you have a storm damage emergency in your Grayslake home or business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Creosote Buildup Causes Wood Stove Fire in Fox Lake Home?

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage in Lake County 24-hours a day.

Our team in Northwest Lake County wants Fox Lake residents to be safe around the fireplace this fall and winter. As temperatures cool, we spend more time indoors in front of the fireplace. Creosote buildup in a fireplace or wood stove chimney is one of the leading causes of chimney fires in the United States. Here is some helpful information for minimizing the chances of creosote buildup from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Limited air supply and unseasoned wood encourage the buildup of creosote. To avoid that buildup, do not restrict the air supply by:

• Closing the glass doors
• Not opening the damper wide enough
• The longer the smoke is in the flue, the more likely it is that creosote will form
• Closing down the stove damper or air inlets on a wood stove too soon or too much
• Do not burn unseasoned wood
• In the case of wood stoves, overloading the firebox with wood in an attempt to get a longer burn time also contributes to creosote buildup

Fireplace and Woodstove Safety

• Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace to prevent embers or sparks from jumping out
• Do not burn paper in your fireplace or woodstove
• Put ashes in a metal container with a lid outside, at least three feet from your home
• Put the fire out before you go to sleep or leave your home

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency in your Fox Lake home or business, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Will I Know If My Water Damage is Completely Dry in Round Lake Beach?

11/8/2022 (Permalink)

We are Lake County’s top choice for water damage restoration services.

Water damage may look dry on the surface, but unless the area is monitored and documented during the drying process, you won’t know for sure. Our team in Northwest Lake County wants Round Lake Beach residents to know that our technicians take documented steps to ensure your water damage is completely dried.

Most surfaces in homes and businesses are porous, and water can penetrate them. Although surfaces may be dry to the touch, they may still contain moisture, which, left untreated, can cause the materials to break down, warp, or cause mold damage.

Drying and Dehumidification Process

Our team uses room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the number of air movers and dehumidifiers required to dry an area. We also monitor and document the drying process to ensure the damage is dried thoroughly. Here is some more information from our website about the drying process.

Monitor Floor and Walls

We check the moisture levels to monitor and document the drying process. 

• Monitor Floors
• Monitor Walls

Drying Equipment

• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers help prevent secondary water damage like swelling and warping floors, walls, and furniture
• High-speed air movers create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, and furniture, accelerating moisture evaporation

Call Us Today!

When you have a water damage emergency in your Round Lake Beach home or business, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Expect When I Call For Emergency Water Damage Services in Antioch?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration services in Lake County.

Water damage is the most common form of property damage insurance claim in the United States. Our team in Northwest Lake County responds to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Antioch. Water damage never happens at a convenient time, and water can cause severe damage in as little as one to two hours.

When you call us, we will ask you a series of questions to help us determine the type of equipment and the number of technicians to send to begin the mitigation process.

Here are the questions we will ask:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Water Damage Restoration Process

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

Call Us Today!

Our teams are on standby 24-hours a day, 365 days a year, to respond to water damage emergencies. When you have a water damage emergency in your Antioch home or business, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Quick and Easy Tips for Creating a Home Inventory in Fox Lake?

10/24/2022 (Permalink)

We can help our customers with the insurance process in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County has established relationships with all major insurance companies and can assist with the insurance process and paperwork. We have been restoring property damage for Fox Lake residents and businesses for years.

Having an up-to-date home inventory list helps get your claim processed faster. Although creating a home inventory can be daunting, modern technology makes the process much easier. Here are some tips from the Insurance Information Institute for using technology to create a home inventory list.

Take pictures – Create a photo record of your belongings. Capture important individual items and entire rooms, closets, or drawers. Label your photos with what’s pictured, where you bought it, the make or model—whatever information might be important to replacing or getting reimbursed for the item. Use your smartphone or digital camera—some give you the capability to put in the item’s description when saving the photo.

Tape it – Walk through your house or apartment, videotaping and describing the contents. For example, you might describe the contents of a kitchen cabinet: “Poppies on Blue by Lenox, service for 12 that includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bowl, cup, and saucer. Purchased in 2015.”

Use an app – Many mobile app options can help you create and store a room-by-room record of your belongings.

Call Us Today!

Our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help ® when your Fox Lake home or business has property damage. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Is Your Business in Ingleside Shore Ready for Winter Weather?

10/17/2022 (Permalink)

We restore commercial property damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County knows that a little preventative maintenance goes a long way toward preventing storm damage. We offer these tips from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety to prepare your building for winter weather:

Your team needs to maintain the roof drains and gutters on your properties. 

Low slope (flat) roofs 

• Inspect roof and repair leaks before the winter season 
• Remove all debris and other items from roof and roof drainage systems that prevent drainage of water from the roof during the melting process  
• Check that all flashing and seals are flush and secure

 Steep slope roofs

• Inspect your roof and repair leaks before the winter season 
• Secure loose shingles
• Check roof-edge waterproofing and seal to prevent potential drafts
• Add extra insulation in your attic or surrounding areas 

Gutters 

• Inspect gutters and ensure they’re secured to the building. Replace any missing gutter fasteners.  
• Clean gutters and interior downspouts thoroughly, removing all debris and unclogging drains 
• Test gutters and downspouts to be sure water does not back up. This can be done by using a hose. 
• Check downspouts to ensure they divert water away from the foundation

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Ingleside Shore has storm damage and needs our services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help.® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Lightning Safety Tips for Venetian Village Residents?

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County knows Venetian Village residents are no strangers to severe storms. Our professionals have been restoring storm damage for Lake County residents and businesses for years. Here are some lightning safety tips from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration:  

• Avoid isolated tall trees, hilltops, utility poles, cell phone towers, cranes, large equipment, ladders, scaffolding, or rooftops
• Avoid open areas, such as fields
• Never lie flat on the ground
• Retreat to dense areas of smaller trees that are surrounded by larger trees, or retreat to low-lying areas but watch for flooding
• Avoid water, and immediately get out of and away from bodies of water
• Avoid wiring, plumbing, and fencing. Stay away from all metal objects, equipment, and surfaces that can conduct electricity.
• Do not shelter in sheds, pavilions, tents, or covered porches as they do not provide adequate protection from lightning
• Seek fully enclosed, substantial buildings with wiring and plumbing. In modern buildings, the interior wiring  and plumbing will act as an earth ground.
• A building is a safe shelter as long as you are not in contact with anything that can conduct electricity (e.g., electrical equipment or cords, plumbing fixtures, corded phones). Do not lean against concrete walls or floors (which may have metal bars inside).

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business in Venetian Village has storm damage and needs our services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help.® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Pets Starting Fires on Halloween in Round Lake Beach?

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Our furry friends are curious and can start a fire by bumping into, turning on, or knocking over cooking equipment. Our local team in Northwest Lake County wants everyone to have a safe, fire-damage-free Halloween in Round Lake Beach. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that pets and wild animals play a role in starting over 750 home fires each year.

Here are some pet fire safety tips from the NFPA to keep your pets safe around fire:

• Keep pets away from stoves and countertops
• Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters
• Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place
• Keep pets away from a chimney’s outside vents
• Have a “pet-free zone” of at least three feet away from the fireplace. Glass doors and screens can stay dangerously hot for several hours after the fire goes out.
• Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems checked by a professional.

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Round Lake Beach has fire damage and needs our services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help.® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Advanced Technology Used to Restore Property Damage in Antioch?

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

We use technology to save our customers time and money in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County uses advanced technology and techniques to locate water damage and extract and dry the area quickly and efficiently. Our technological advancements allow us to rapidly pull water from the damaged area, preventing secondary damage in many cases. This saves our customers time and money by reducing the time it takes to complete the job. 

Moisture Detection and Measurement

•  Surface moisture meters
•  Infrared imagery
•  Evasive moisture detectors
•  Video borescope

Water Extraction Equipment

We use powerful extraction equipment to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Antioch has property damage and needs our services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help.® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Deep Cleaning Services for Commercial Properties in Round Lake Beach?

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

We offer cleaning services to keep Lake County businesses looking their best!

If you are a commercial business owner, you know that your business can start to look dull and tired over time. There may be odors that you have become “nose-blind” to, but your customers won’t be. Light fixtures, millwork, windows, and furnishings can lose their luster.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County is trained and certified to provide commercial cleaning services in Round Lake Beach. Over time, the cleaning products can build up and leave a film that requires professional help to remove. We offer a full range of specialty deep cleaning services to keep your business looking and smelling its best.

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism
• Air Ducts and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene

We have extensive experience working in all kinds of business settings and buildings:

• 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 and Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Round Lake Beach needs deep cleaning services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help.® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hail Causing Damage to Homes in Ingleside?

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County responds to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Ingleside. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hailstones are classified by comparing them to a known object. Usually, hailstorms drop a mix of different sizes of hailstones, and only the huge ones pose any serious risk to people when caught out in a storm.

Here are some hailstone measurements from the NOAA:

• Pea = 1/4 inch diameter
• Mothball = 1/2 inch diameter
• Penny = 3/4 inch diameter
• Nickel = 7/8 inch
• Quarter = 1 inch — hail quarter size or larger is considered severe
• Ping-Pong Ball = 1 1/2 inch
• Golf Ball = 1 3/4 inches
• Tennis Ball = 2 1/2 inches
• Baseball = 2 3/4 inches
• Teacup = 3 inches
• Softball = 4 inches
• Grapefruit = 4 1/2 inches

After any storm damage event involving water, safety should be your primary concern. Ask yourself:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Ingleside experiences hail, flooding, or another type of storm damage, our local team in Northwest Lake County will restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Causes Water Damage in Fox Lake Homes?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County responds to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Fox Lake. According to industry estimates, 14,000 people in the United States suffer a water damage emergency daily. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to restore water damage quickly and efficiently.

Water damage facts:

• 98 percent of basements in the United States will experience some type of water damage during their lifespans
• 37 percent of homeowners in the United States claim to have suffered losses from water damage
• 5 billion is the annual cost to insurance companies from water damage and mold in the United States
• $6975 is the average cost of a home water damage insurance claim
• The average age of failed washing machine supply line hoses is 8.7 years
• 75 percent of water heaters fail before they are 12 years old

Most common causes of water damage:

• Severe weather
• Clogged gutters
• Leaking pipes
• Washing machine supply line leaks
• Condensation from air conditioners
• Blocked drains
• Malfunctioning sprinkler systems
• Leaking water heaters

Call Us Today!

Water damage happens all the time, and thousands of people experience water damage every day in the United States. Fox Lake residents and commercial businesses can rely on our local team in Northwest Lake County to restore water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips for Protecting Round Lake Beach Pets from Sunstroke?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County wants everyone in Round Lake Beach and their pets to be protected from overheating and sunstroke. Small animals overheat quickly, and it takes them a long time to cool down when they get overheated.

Here is some information from The Humane Society about pets and sunstroke:

Signs of Sunstroke in Pets

Extreme temperatures can cause heatstroke. Some signs of heatstroke are heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure, and unconsciousness.

Animals are at particular risk for heat stroke if they are very old, very young, overweight, not conditioned to prolonged exercise, or have heart or respiratory disease.

How to Treat a Pet Suffering From Sunstroke

Move your pet to the shade or in an air-conditioned area. Apply ice packs or cold towels to their head, neck, and chest, or run cool (not cold) water over them. Let them drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes. Take them directly to a veterinarian.

Call Us Today!

Round Lake Beach residents and commercial businesses can rely on our local team in Northwest Lake County to restore storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Water-damaged Business in Antioch?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Every minute counts when your commercial business in Antioch has a water damage emergency. Water is invasive, and it can cause serious damage if it is not mitigated quickly. Even one hour of standing water can cause significant damage to a structure.

Our local team in Northwest Lake County responds to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. We use advanced technology and industrial-grade equipment to remediate commercial water damage efficiently.

Moisture Detection and Measurement

• Surface moisture meters
• Infrared imagery
• Evasive moisture detectors
• Video borescope

Water Extraction Equipment

We use powerful extraction equipment to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

Antioch commercial businesses and residents can rely on our local team in Northwest Lake County to restore water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Wildfire Prevention Tips for Round Lake Beach Residents?

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Round Lake Beach residents must be extra vigilant about fires during wildfire season. Our local team in Northwest Lake County responds to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. We have the training, equipment, and experience to mitigate and restore fire damage quickly and efficiently. Creating defensible space around the perimeter of your property is one way to minimize the potential for wildfire damage.

The defensible space around your home should be a 100-foot radius from any structure. You are not required to cross your property line to clear the 100 feet, and the neighboring property owner may be required to clear the additional distance by the fire agency.

The National Fire Protection Association suggests choosing fire-resistant building materials and to limit the amount of flammable vegetation in three home ignition zones.

• Trim branches that overhang the home, porch, and deck
• Prune branches of large trees up to 6 to 10 feet from the ground
• Remove plants containing resins, oils, and waxes
• Use crushed stone or gravel instead of flammable mulches o to 5 feet around the house
• Keep your landscape in good condition

Call Us Today!

When your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business has fire damage, our local team in Northwest Lake County’s technicians will restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Long Does It Take for Water to Cause Damage to a Home in Antioch?

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration in Lake County.

Antioch residents and commercial businesses rely on our team in Northwest Lake County to restore water damage 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. Water is invasive; the longer water damage remains untreated, the more extensive and costly the repairs will become. Here is a water damage timeline that describes the damage water can do within one week:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, 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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may 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
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

Call Us Today!

When your Antioch home or commercial business has a water damage emergency, our local team in Northwest Lake County’s technicians will mitigate and restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If I Discover Mold Growing In My Third Lake Home?

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold damage removal in Lake County.

Mold plays a vital role in nature by breaking down organic matter. Microscopic mold spores are always present in the Earth’s atmosphere. When they find the perfect conditions to propagate, they can colonize quickly and become visible within 48 to 72 hours. Third Lake residents and businesses rely on our team in Northwest Lake County to remediate mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Here are some tips from our website on things you can and should not do while waiting for help to arrive:

Important Facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48 to 72 hours
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans
• Contact our office in Northwest Lake County 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

 Call Us Today!

When your Third Lake home or commercial business has a mold infestation, our local team in Northwest Lake County’s technicians will mitigate and restore the mold quickly and efficiently. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Happy Water Damage Customers in Round Lake Beach?

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water and mold damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

When you have a water damage emergency in Round Lake Beach, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We use industrial-grade equipment to extract and dry water from damaged areas quickly, and we monitor and document the drying process to ensure the area is restored to normal humidity levels. Here is a recent Google review from a happy customer:

“Drake and his team were very responsive and thorough after the residence had flooded. They provided timely water removal and mold remediation. The work was extensive, as during the course of the process new challenges were found. The team was able to rectify the issues while communicating throughout each step of the process. In an unfortunate situation, Drake and his team were able to provide a level of comfort. They ensured that all the appropriate measures were executed and performed extremely well. Thank you!” Austin Roszkowiak

Services: Water damage-related mold removal, Mold cleaning, Mold remediation, Water damage-related cleanup and repair, Water removal

Positive: Professionalism, Quality, Responsiveness, Value

Call Us!

When your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business has a water damage emergency, our local team in Northwest Lake County’s technicians will mitigate and restore the damage quickly and efficiently. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If My Floor Floods in Fox lake While Waiting For Help to Arrive?

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage in Lake County 24-hours a day.

When you have a water damage emergency in Fox Lake, our team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Here are some tips from our website for things you can do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• 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 After Flooding

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place
• Hang furs and leather goods
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets 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 the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When you have a water damage emergency in your Fox Lake home or commercial business, our local team in Northwest Lake County’s technicians will mitigate and restore your damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Can I Protect My Ingleside Shore Home From Windblown Embers?

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration services in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County has the training, equipment, and experience to restore fire damage in Ingleside Shore “Like it never even happened.” Windblown embers can travel up to five miles ahead of a burning fire. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association for preventing windblown embers from entering attics and crawl spaces through vents:

Inlet Vents

Gable end vents and other vent openings are vulnerable to windblown embers when the face of the vent is perpendicular to the wind flow, while embers are less likely to pass through vents with a face that is parallel to the wind flow. Therefore, soffited eave construction is preferred to open eave.

Outlet Vents

Opt for a ridge that is rated to resist wind-driven rain. These vents have an external baffle at the vent inlet.

Turbine Vents

Turbine vents also help keep embers out, but you should attach a piece of 1/8 inch mesh to the bottom of the roof sheathing at the opening for the vent.

Call Us!

Fire damage can happen anytime and especially during the Colorado wildfire season. When you have fire damage in your Ingleside Shore home or commercial business, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help.® Our technicians typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call for help. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Will My Water Damage in Round Lake Beach Be Restored?

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County follows a comprehensive, six-step process for mitigating and restoring water damage in Round Lake Beach as follows:

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property quickly. This helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. We are trained to provide sanitizing treatments, remove odors, and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

When you have a water damage emergency in your Round Lake Beach home or commercial business, our local team in Northwest Lake County will restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Faster to Any Size Disaster in Fox Lake?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

Our technicians restore commercial storm damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

When your commercial business in Fox Lake has storm damage, our team in Northwest Lake County typically arrives onsite within four hours to immediately begin the mitigation and restoration process.

Illinois weather is unpredictable, and storms can happen at any time of the year. Every minute your business is closed, there is the potential for lost revenue and productivity, so our restoration technicians work quickly and efficiently to mitigate the damage with minimal disruption to your customers and employees.

We follow the one-four-eight-hour rule, meaning:

One hour: we will respond to your call within one hour or less

Four hours: we will be onsite within four hours of your call

Eight hours: we will contact your insurance adjuster within eight hours of your call

Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to mitigate and restore any size of storm damage. We can also supervise a full range of building and reconstruction services when required, providing you with one convenient point of contact for the entire restoration.

Call Us Today!

You never know when the next big storm will roll in and cause damage to your property. If your  Fox Lake commercial business or home has storm damage, our local team in Northwest Lake County will respond quickly to secure your property and restore the damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tornado Watch for Antioch Residents?

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Our technicians restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County responds to storm damage emergencies in Antioch 24-hours a day, every day of the year. Tornadoes can occur in Lake County, so here are the tornado and high wind alert definitions from the National Weather Service:

Tornado Watch: This means a tornado is possible.

Tornado Warning: A tornado is already occurring or will occur soon. Go to your safe place immediately.

High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside.

Wind Advisory: Take Action: Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong to warrant a High Wind Warning. Outside objects should be secured, and caution should be taken if driving.  

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! A thunderstorm is happening or is imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have wind gusts of 58 miles per hour and hail one inch or larger. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building.

Preparing for High Winds

• Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures
• Remove loose objects outdoors, on patios, roofs, or balconies that could blow away
• Shutter windows securely and brace outside doors
• Bring in unsecured objects from outside and secure objects that could blow away and cause damage or injury

Call Us!

When your Antioch home or business has storm damage, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Kids Playing With Fire Causes Fire Damage in Round Lake Beach?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), playing with fire incidents causes $205 million in direct property damage each year. Our team in Northwest Lake County offers these tips from the NFPA for preventing children from playing with fire in Round Lake Beach:

• Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet
• Closely supervise children, making sure that they are kept away from other fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, bonfires, and stoves
• Explain that fire moves very fast and can hurt as soon as it touches them. Tell them that this is why matches and lighters are tools for adults only.
• Teach young children never to touch matches or lighters. They must tell a grown-up when matches or lighters are found.
• Establish clear rules and consequences for unsupervised and unauthorized uses of fire
• Be a good example! Always use fire sources — matches, lighters, candles, fireplaces, and campfires — in a safe manner. Never treat them as toys, or children may imitate you.
• Talk with children about what their friends or other children are doing with fire. What do they see online in video games, TV, movies, and social media? Teach them specific ways to resist the peer pressure to misuse fire.
• Give praise for showing respect and age-appropriate responsible behavior toward fire

Call Us!

When your Round Lake beach home or business has fire damage, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If My Basement Floods in Fox Lake?

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Basement flooding is a common problem in Fox Lake. Our team in Northwest Lake County restores water damage 24-hours a day, and we typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call for help. The Insurance Information Institute lists the following top causes of basement flooding:

Lateral pressure: When the soil surrounding your basement absorbs water and expands, it creates stress on your basement walls, causing them to crack, allowing water to seep into the structure.

Hydrostatic pressure: Similar to lateral pressure, hydrostatic pressure can cause buckling and cracking of the walls and foundation of a house.

Poor landscaping: If the grade of the soil around your foundation runs towards your foundation, your basement can flood.

Clogged window wells: If your window wells are filling with water, your window wells may be improperly installed, or the drain is clogged.

Leaky pipes: Inspect your plumbing systems, starting with their entry into the basement to where it leaves, including the sewer line. Make repairs as required.

Call Us Today!

When your Fox Lake home or business needs water damage restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your flooded basement “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Some Signs I Have Water Damage in My Antioch Home?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore water damage in Lake County.

Water damage is one of the most common forms of property damage in the United States, and it can happen for any number of reasons. Our team in Northwest Lake County restores water damage quickly and efficiently. We use powerful, industrial-grade water extraction and drying equipment to return water damage to pre-damage conditions. We monitor and document the drying process to ensure the damaged area is restored to normal humidity levels. We can also help you with the insurance process and paperwork, too! Here are some of the signs and symptoms of water damage:

• Dark or wet spots on the walls or ceiling
• Wet areas or water pooling on the floor
• Flaking, cracking, or bubbling paint or drywall
• Hearing the sound of running water that you can’t place
• Hearing the sound of dripping water that you can’t locate
• Visible dripping water you can see but dripping where it should not be
• Significant increase in your water bill for no known reason
• Strong, damp, musky odors
• Visible mold growing 

Call Us!

When your Antioch home or business needs water damage restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We are on call 24-hours a day to assist you. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning Services for Homes in Venetian Village?

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to clean carpets and upholstery in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County has the training and certifications to clean carpets and upholstery and keep your home and business looking their best in Venetian Village. We pre-test every fabric and surface to ensure we use the most effective cleaning methods.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

Our carpet and upholstery cleaning service will not only get out the dirt you see but will also remove the unwanted dust you don’t. A professionally cleaned carpet and furniture may make all the difference in brightening up a room and freshening up your home.

Other residential cleaning services include:

Air Duct Cleaning

We all have tasks around the house that don’t make it to the top of our priority list. Properly maintaining your home’s air ducts should not be one of them. Regular duct cleaning can increase your home’s heating and cooling efficiency and improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe.

Odor Removal

Your basic cleaning service is not going to have the expertise to effectively deodorize your home. Take advantage of our residential cleaning services to remove unwanted odors.

Sewage and Biohazard Clean Up

Our experts are ready to assist in the clean-up of sewage and other biohazard materials and provide deep cleaning services for your home. Find out more about our franchise professionals.

Call Us Today!

When your Venetian Village home or commercial business needs carpet and upholstery cleaning services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated

Smoke and Soot Damage in Grayslake Restaurant?

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

We are trained and certified to restore smoke and soot damage in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County invests in advanced training and equipment that makes it easier to clean and restore fire damage in Grayslake. We understand the importance of getting your business up and running quickly after smoke and soot exposure. We use several different methods to clean and restore smoke and soot damage, 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 work in all kinds of commercial settings, including:

• 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 and Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us!

Fire, smoke, and soot damage require specialized cleaning techniques to restore the damage. When your Grayslake business or home has smoke and soot damage, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooding Preparedness for Fox Lake Residents?

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County!

According to the Lake County, Illinois, website, roughly twenty percent of Lake County is covered by surface water from streams, lakes, wetlands, and floodplains. After heavy rain events, parts of the county experience flooding, and flash floods are common. Our team in Northwest Lake County is on-call and ready to assist Fox Lake residents with storm damage 24-hours a day. Here are some tips from the Lake County website for floodproofing your home or business:

Floodproofing Tips – Gutter, Downspout, and Drain Maintenance

Simple, cost-free ways to prevent the buildup of water near your home include cleaning your gutters, making sure they are in good condition, and adjusting them properly.

• Any downspouts should be positioned away from impervious surfaces like driveways and toward a lawn or other vegetated areas to increase infiltration. (Don’t direct the downspout towards your neighbor’s property).
• All downspouts should have extensions to discharge at least ten feet away from the house foundation.
• Make sure all yard drains or storm drains along your street are clear of any debris that may be inhibiting water from flowing into the stormwater sewer system

Call Us!

Flooding and storm damage can happen at any time in Fox Lake. When your home or business needs storm damage restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Advanced Technology Used to Detect Hidden Water Damage in Round Lake Beach?

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

We use advanced technology to access water damage in Lake County!

Fast response and mitigation practices can make the difference between a quick job and a more time-consuming and expensive restoration. Our team in Northwest Lake County invests in technology and equipment that makes it easier to detect and identify the source of hidden water damage in Round Lake Beach. Here is some of the technology we use to restore water damage.

Moisture Detection and Measurement

• Surface moisture meters
• Infrared imagery
• Evasive moisture detectors
• Video borescope

Water Extraction Equipment

We use powerful extraction equipment to speed the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us!

Water damage can happen at any time and for a number of reasons. When your Round Lake Beach home or business needs water damage restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Five-Star Reviews in Fox Lake?

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

We are committed to delivering high-quality service and support in Lake County!

Our team in Northwest Lake County wants all of our Fox Lake customers to be completely satisfied with our services. Here are some recent Google reviews from water damage customers:

“Drake and Scott did an outstanding job for us. We had a water line break flooding our newly finished basement and damaging our ceiling. They arrived within an hour of our call at 8 pm, quickly cleaned the water up, removed all the debris, and had fans dehumidifiers running to dry everything immediately, which saved our new floors and finished basement. After the mitigation, they provided all the photos and documentation needed by the insurance company and coordinated the whole repair process. True professionals and great attention to detail - highly recommended!” Vince Dasta

“Scott and Drake are very responsive, very professional, and extremely helpful. They kept me well informed each step of the way as they explained the remediation process. I recommend this team for anyone needing remediation work!” Anthony S

Call Us Today!

Water damage can happen at any time of the day or night. When your Fox Lake home or business needs water damage restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Biohazard Contamination in Antioch Business?

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

We restore dangerous biohazards in Lake County 24-hours a day.

Our team in Northwest Lake County has the training, equipment, and experience to clean and restore biohazard spills and contamination quickly and efficiently.

Commercial Biohazard Restoration Services

• Sewage backups
• Crime scene residues
• Suicide/death accidents
• Homicide cleanups
• Blood cleanup
• Accident cleanup
• Hoarding scenes
• Animal waste/remains
• Chemical spills
• Tear gas cleanup

Here are some tips from our website on what to do and NOT do while waiting for help to arrive:

What to Do After a Contamination

• Stay out of affected areas
• Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life-threatening
• Treat allbodily fluids as if they are contaminated
• Turn off the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) if there is sewage damage

What Not to Do After a Contamination

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors
• Don’t use your vacuum to remove water.
• Don’t use television or other electrical appliances
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us!

Biohazard exposure can happen at any time of the day or night. When your Antioch commercial business or home needs biohazard restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Pets Starting Fires in Fox Lake Homes?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage in Lake County every day of the year.

Our team in Northwest Lake County responds to fire damage emergencies every year in Fox Lake, and some have been pet-related. Pets are curious and can bump into or knock over cooking equipment, candles, lamps, and space heaters. Here are some pet fire safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to keep your furry friends safe around fire:

• Keep pets away from stoves and countertops
• Keep pets away from candles, lamps, and space heaters
• Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen on a fireplace and keep it in place
• Keep pets away from a chimney’s outside vents
• Have a “pet-free zone” of at least three feet away from the fireplace. Glass doors and screens can stay dangerously hot for several hours after the fire goes out.
• Some pets are chewers. Watch pets to make sure they don’t chew through electrical cords. Have any problems checked by a professional.

Call Us!

Fire damage can happen at any time of the day or night. When your Fox Lake home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call for help. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooded Floor in Antioch Home?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Our team in Northwest Lake County responds to water damage emergencies in Antioch throughout the year. Here are some tips for preventing indoor water damage from the Insurance Information Institute:

• Inspect appliance hoses and faucets. Every year, make it a practice to check hoses leading to water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerator ice makers. Immediately replace any hoses with cracks or leaks, and replace them all every five to seven years.
• Inspect showers and tubs. Check the seal and caulking around showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight and reseal if necessary.
• When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine and never leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running
• Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home. A damaged hose or a burst pipe can send water racing into your home. Being able to locate and shut off the main water supply quickly will save stress, money, and time.
• Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system. This will protect against the increased pressure caused by freezing pipes and help prevent your pipes from bursting.
• Check plumbing and heating pipes. Look closely for cracks and leaks and have any necessary repairs made immediately.

Call Us Today!

When your Antioch home or commercial business needs emergency water damage restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips for Fox Lake?

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Fox Lake Residents Need to Know

Can you recall the last time you replaced the batteries or tested your home’s smoke alarm system in Fox Lake? Working smoke alarms can help you get out of the house quickly when there is a fire. Our team in Northwest Lake County responds to fire damage emergencies every year and offer these tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Smoke Alarm Safety

• A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us!

When your Fox Lake home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

HVAC Inspection and Cleaning Services in Round Lake Beach?

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Our Lake County customers benefit from our HVAC inspection and cleaning services.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating or cooling a home is wasted by dirty HVAC systems. Our local team in Northwest Lake County can inspect, clean, and maintain your HVAC system and keep your system running at peak performance.

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Do you know that our technicians in Northwest Lake County are trained to inspect and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in homes and commercial businesses? We help Round Lake Beach residents save money and keep their HVAC systems operating in top condition. According to the National HVAC Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Association, the two main benefits of cleaning your air ducts are:

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Your heating and cooling system is the lungs of your home, and the system takes air in and breathes air out.

Through normal occupation in a home, we generate a great deal of contaminants and air pollutants, such as dander, dust, and chemicals. These contaminants are pulled into the HVAC system and re-circulated 5 to 7 times per day, on average. Over time, this re-circulation causes a build-up of contaminants in the ductwork.

Energy Savings

Contaminants in the heating and cooling system cause the HVAC system to work harder and shorten your equipment’s life. Although filters are used, the heating and cooling system still gets dirty through regular use.

When an HVAC system is clean, it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain your desired temperature. As a result, less energy is used, leading to improved cost-effectiveness.

Call Us!

When the HVAC system in your Round Lake Beach residence or business needs inspection or maintenance, our local team in Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

COVID-19 Outbreak in Antioch Business?

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in defensive pathogen cleaning in Lake County.

Do you know that SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County’s technicians provide deep cleaning and decontamination services that exceed the scope of a routine janitorial service in Antioch? We offer a full range of deep cleaning services to keep your commercial business virus-free and looking its best.

Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive pathogen cleaning program that inspires consumer confidence.

How does it work? It’s grounded in our unique 3 C’s:

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the individual needs of each facility
  
• Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.
  
• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers, and community.

Call Us Today!

When your Antioch business or residence is exposed to COVID-19, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County’s highly trained technicians will arrive quickly to clean and decontaminate your workplace or home. To learn more about our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program, call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

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.

Thundersnow in Grayslake?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

What do you get when you combine snowstorms with lightning? You get thundersnow. Although thunderstorms are less common during the winter months, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), thundersnow is sometimes observed downstream of the Great Lakes and the Great Salt Lake during lake-effect snowstorms. Thundersnow occurs when there is strong instability and abundant moisture above the surface, such as a warm front.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County has been restoring storm damage in Grayslake for years. As soon as we arrive, we will inspect and assess the damage and secure the structure by boarding and tarping up any areas exposed to the elements. Once the building is secure, we will begin the restoration process, which can involve anything from tree removal to window replacement. When required to complete a restoration, we can supervise a full range of building and reconstruction services, including:

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

Call Us Today!

When your Grayslake home or business has storm damage, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County’s highly trained technicians will arrive quickly to restore the damage. We typically arrive within four hours of your call. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooded Basement in Lake Villa?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Lake County!

When you have a water damage emergency, fast mitigation is critical as water is invasive and may penetrate anything in its path. The longer the water remains unmitigated, the greater the potential for more extensive water damage and more expensive and time-consuming repairs. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is a trusted leader in water damage restoration in Lake Villa. Here is a recent Google review from a happy customer:

“SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County did an OUTSTANDING job removing and restoring my basement. Drake and Scott went ABOVE and BEYOND to help me in a very difficult time in my life, and I am impressed with them as people, along with the exceptional job that they did on my basement. Thank you both SO VERY MUCH!! I am very, very happy with the work that SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County did on my home.” Dawn Ozark

Services: Painting, Water damage cleanup, Standard clean, Flooring

Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness

Call Us Today!

When your Lake Villa home or business needs water damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our highly trained technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to restore any size water damage quickly and efficiently. We are on-call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Highly Trained Team in Ingleside?

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

Our technicians have the training required to restore property damage in Lake County quickly and efficiently.

At SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County, our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience to clean and restore any form of property damage in Ingleside. The SERVPRO training program includes:

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

Here are some of our IICRC certifications.

• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation-IICRC
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying- IICRC
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning- IICRC
• Fire and Smoke Restoration- IICRC
• HST - Health & Safety- IICRC
• Journeyman Fire & Smoke Restorer- IICRC
• Journeyman Textile Cleaner- IICRC
• Leather Cleaning- IICRC
• Odor Control- IICRC
• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning- IICRC
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration- IICRC

e-Learnings

All of our staff have access to web-based training. This training is voluntary and is a program that is designed to be an ongoing training series for SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County employees. These training courses feature video presentations and support materials, followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module. This keeps our technicians and office team current on new industry standards and best practices for the cleaning and restoration industry.

Call Us Today!

When your Ingleside home or business has property damage, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our highly trained technicians are on-call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Storm Safety for Round Lake Beach Businesses?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to commercial storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is a trusted leader in commercial storm damage mitigation and restoration in Round Lake Beach. Here is some information from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety on things businesses can do after a winter storm:

Activate your business continuity plan

• Ensure everyone is safe
  • Make sure guests, clients, and employees are safe 
  • Be prepared to evacuate if structural damage from snow and ice makes a building unsafe
  • Stay away from downed powerlines

Snow removal 

• Safety first! 
  • Keep the parking lot and sidewalks surrounding the building free of snow and ice. Shovel after each snowfall. Keep ice melt/salt on the ground to prevent slips and falls.  
  • Place non-slip mats in front of entryways to prevent slipping as employees and customers enter/exit your business property
• Monitor your roof’s snow load to ensure it does not exceed its maximum capacity.
• Conduct an assessment of the snow and ice equivalent 
• If you have excessive snow or ice dams, have your snow removal team safely remove the snow and ice dams  
• Watch for signs of snow load damage, such as creaking sounds, a sagging roof, cracks in the ceiling or walls, water stains, and doors or windows that no longer open and close correctly
• In case of a power outage, use your generator

Call Us!

When you need storm damage restoration services in your Round Lake Beach business or home, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Ice Dam Situation in Fox Lake?

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County sees the damage ice dams can cause to a structure in Fox Lake. The freezing-thawing-freezing process allows water to accumulate in little ponds of standing water along the eave line of a sloped roof. Here are some tips for preventing ice dam damage:

Ice Dam Prevention Tips

There’s no way to guarantee an ice dam will not damage your home, but you can reduce the likelihood of an ice dam forming in the first place:

• Thoroughly clean all leaves, sticks, and other debris from rain gutters and downspouts
• Strive to keep snow on your roof to a minimum. Long-handled devices called “roof rakes” let you stand on the ground and pull the snow off the roof. Keeping heavy snow loads off your roof reduces the chances of ice dam formation and roof failure due to the weight.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clear of snow and icicles all winter
• Evaluate the insulation and ventilation in your attic. Attic insulation should have an R-value of at least R-30 (R-38 is preferable in northern climates). In addition, good airflow from under the eaves or soffit area along the underside of the roof and out through the roof vents is essential. 

Call Us Today!

When you need storm damage restoration services, Fox Lake residents and businesses can count on SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County to clean and restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Contents Restoration Services in Round Lake Beach?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

When a fire broke out in my Round Lake Beach home, many of our household belongings were damaged by smoke, soot, and the water used to extinguish the flames. Fortunately, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County’s technicians are trained and certified to clean and restore fire-damaged belongings to pre-fire condition. They pretest everything before cleaning to ensure they are using the more effective cleaning method. Here are some of the cleaning methods we may use to clean and restore your fire-damaged belongings:

• 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 

Call Us Today!

You never know when you may need our fire damage restoration services, but when you do, Round Lake Beach residents and businesses can count on SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County to clean and restore your belongings, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Sewer Backup Problem in Fox Lake?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

We clean and restore sewer backup damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Fox Lake residents can rely on us 24-hours a day!

When your sewer system backs up, you need the professionals at SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County. We respond to sewer backup emergencies 24-hours a day. Here is a recent Google review from one of our valued customers:

Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value

“SERVPRO for the Win!!!!! Wow, these guys were beyond amazing with everything. Unexpectedly I had sewage issues, and like real superheroes, the guys at SERVPRO came through in the clutch. They took care of all the access water in the basement, did a thorough mold inspection, and took care of all our ducts and vent cleaning. If anyone EVER needs anything with any type of flood/vent cleaning, ask for Scott. Best tech I could have asked for. He explained himself well, worked with us, and was honest. Thanks, Scott!” Lui B.

Services: Sewage cleanup, Mold inspection, Clean ducts & vents

Call Us!

 When your home or business has a sewer backup emergency, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County will safely restore your damage in Fox Lake, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooded Floor in Grayslake Business?

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

We restore commercial water damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Water damage can happen at any time in Grayslake, and when it does, fast action will be required to mitigate the damage before secondary damage can occur. Water is invasive and will permeate everything in its path. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County responds to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day. We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to restore water damage. Here is some of the equipment we may use:

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from your home or business ceiling, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home has a water damage emergency, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County will restore your damage in Grayslake, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Emergency Alert System in Antioch?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Antioch residents and commercial businesses rely on the professionals at SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County to restore storm damage any time of the day or night. Lake County’s website has an excellent section containing important links to alerts for severe storms, flooding, extreme heat or cold, and other emergencies as follows. It also has more detailed sections on the various kinds of severe weather, like winter storms, as follows:

• Emergency Alert System
• Emergency Closing Center
• Lake County Skywarn
• Latest Lake County Traffic Updates
• National Weather Service
• NOAA Weather Alert Radios
• Wireless Emergency Alerts
• Sign up for Nextdoor to get alerts specific to your neighborhood.
• Facebook and Twitter
• Emergency Management Agency:
  Facebook
• Sheriff’s Office:
  Facebook and Twitter
• Health Department:
  Facebook and Twitter
• Division of Transportation
  Facebook and Twitter

Lake County is susceptible to flooding, extreme temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and winter storms. For Lake County, winter weather can mean snow, subfreezing temperatures, ice, strong winds, and even heavy rainstorms. 

Stay Alert to Winter Storms:

• Road and Traffic Updates
• Types of Winter Weather
• Winter Weather Preparedness

Call Us Today!

When you have a storm damage emergency in Antioch, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Electrical Fire in Fox Lake?

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Fox Lake residents and commercial businesses rely on the professionals at SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County to restore fire damage. Here are some electrical safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician
• Only use one heat-producing appliance plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time
• Major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Extension cords and plug strips should not be used.
• Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs. Consider having them installed in your home.
• Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock. GFCIs shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. They should be installed inside the home in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and basements. All outdoor receptacles should be GFCI protected.
• Test AFCIs and GFCIs once a month according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use. Have a qualified electrician add more receptacle outlets, so you don’t have to use extension cords.

Call Us Today!

When you need help with fire damage in Fox Lake, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County will restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

New Years Holiday Safety Tips for Antioch?

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

New Years Holiday Safety Tips for Antioch?

Do you know that more home fires occur during the winter months than at any other time of the year in Antioch? SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County wishes everyone a happy and safe new year and offer these winter holidays safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Holiday decorating

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights, so the cords do not get damaged.
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors

Holiday Entertaining

• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan.
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet.
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.
• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding them.

Call Us Today!

Antioch residents and businesses can rely on the professionals at SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County to restore their fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Power Outage in Round Lake Beach?

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Power outages can be planned or unexpected, and they can last for hours, days, or longer. Many things in the home and outside may be impacted during a power outage. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County wants everyone in Round Lake Beach to be safe after power outages and offer these safety tips from the American Red Cross:

When in doubt, throw it out. If food is 40 degrees F or warmer, especially dairy and meat, throw it out. Ask your provider about using refrigerated medicines.

Avoid electrical shock in flood areas. Don’t go into flooded areas or use any electrical equipment or electronics that may have been submerged. Have a qualified electrical inspector check the electrical system.

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep generators, camp stoves, and charcoal grills outdoors only in well-ventilated areas at least 20 feet away from windows.

Keep away from power lines. Stay at least 35 feet away from fallen power lines and anything they are touching. Call 911 and let them know.

Call Us Today!

Power outages never happen at a convenient time, but Round Lake Beach residents and commercial businesses can rely on SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County to restore their storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Winter Storm Warning in Fox Lake?

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Winter weather in Fox Lake can be freezing, and it is common to get a mixture of snow and rain during the winter season. Storms can blow in at any time and often happen with little warning. SERVPRO®?of Northwest Lake County?wants everyone to stay safe during winter storms. Here are some definitions of winter weather terms from the Federal Emergency Management Agency: 

Winter Storm Warning 

These are issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring. Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin. 

Winter Storm Watch 

Alerts the public to the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter Storm Watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours before the beginning of a Winter Storm. 

Winter Weather Advisory  

A winter weather advisory is issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and sleet will cause significant inconveniences and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations. 

Call Us Today! 

Storm damage never happens at a convenient time. Fox Lake residents and commercial businesses can rely on SERVPRO®?of Northwest Lake County to clean and restore their storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.  

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

Fire-damaged Home in Antioch?

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

SERVPRO®?of Northwest Lake County?wants Antioch residents to stay safe while waiting for help to arrive. Here are some fire damage emergency tips from our website:  

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first: 

• Is it safe to stay in the house? 

• Electrical and “slip and fall” hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns. 
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform. 
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful! 

What?NOT?To Do After A Fire 

• Don’t attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us 

• Don’t attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service 
• Don’t use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water 
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet. The wiring may be damaged. 
• Don’t send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set smoke odor. 

Call Us Today! 

Fire damage never happens at a convenient time. Antioch residents and commercial businesses can rely on SERVPRO®?of Northwest Lake County to clean and restore their fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.  

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated. 

Mold Remediation Services for Round Lake Beach Businesses?

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate and remediate mold damage for Lake County businesses.

Mold spores float around in the atmosphere, waiting for the perfect moist conditions to propagate. If your business has had water damage, there is a good chance you have mold damage.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County has the equipment, training, and experience to mitigate and remediate mold damage for Round Lake Beach businesses. Here are some Mold Damage Emergency Tips from our website for things you can do and not do while waiting for help to arrive:

Important Facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48 to 72 hours
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and fans
• Contact SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County 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

Call Us!

When your Round Lake Beach commercial business or home needs mold remediation services, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Sewage Spill in Grayslake?

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Grayslake residents need to know.

If your sewer system backs up, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County has a team of highly trained technicians on-call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Water from sewer system backups is grossly unsanitary and can carry dangerous bacteria and viruses that are highly infectious. Sewer water is classified as “Category 3 Black Water” and should be mitigated and restored as quickly as possible. Our technicians are trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. Here is some information about black water from our website:

Category 3: “Black Water”

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3, black water, could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Call Us Today!

Sewer backups never happen at a convenient time, but Grayslake residents and businesses can rely on SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County to restore their sewer damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Safety Tips for Fox Lake Residents?

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Fox Lake residents need to know.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths in the United States. However, by taking some precautions, most heating fires can be prevented. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County offers these tips home heating safety tips from the NFPA:

• Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment, like the furnace, fireplace, wood stove, or portable space heater
• Have a three-foot “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters
• Never use your oven to heat your home
• Have a qualified professional install stationary space heating equipment, water heaters, or central heating equipment according to the local codes and manufacturer’s instructions
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed
• Always use the right kind of fuel, specified by the manufacturer, for fuel-burning space heaters
• Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Ashes should be cool before putting them in a metal container. Keep the container a safe distance away from your home
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month

Call Us!

Fox Lake residents and businesses can rely on SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County to restore fire damage. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Commercial Cleaning Services for Grayslake?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

We keep Lake County businesses looking their best!

My office in Grayslake was looking tired and dull. I use a regular janitorial service, but I noticed a film was beginning to cover my floors and surfaces. My office also was starting to smell kind of stale. My office manager told me that SERVPRO could send in a team to deep clean my office from top to bottom. They sent out a team right away, and by the end of the afternoon, my offices looked and smelled great!

Over time, cleaning products can leave a dull film on your surfaces. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County offers a full range of deep cleaning, sanitizing, and decontamination services

Commercial Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism

We have many years of experience working in all kinds of business settings and buildings:

• 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 and Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us!

When your Grayslake commercial business or home needs cleaning services, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ®  Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooded Basement in Venetian Village?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in water damage restoration in Lake County

In a study prepared by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS), 40 percent of incidents involving sump pumps were due to clogged inlet screens or faulty float switches. Another 18 percent of sump pump failures were caused by power outages. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County responds to water damage emergencies in Venetian Village and other parts of Adams County, and we have restored many flooded basements over the years.

The IBHS offers these sump pump maintenance tips:

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for sump pump maintenance. These vary from running the sump pump every two to three months to a yearly cleaning before the rainy season.
• Inspect the pump by opening the lid and remove any debris blocking the water inlet screen
• Pour about five gallons of water into the pump and watch the float valve rise
• As the float valve rises, the pump should turn on, and water should discharge through the outlet pipe
• Go outside and inspect the outlet pipe. Water should be flowing away from the home.
• Contact a professional if the sump pump fails to operate during the inspection

Call Us!

When your Venetian Village home or business needs water damage restoration services, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County technicians can assist you 24-hours a day. We typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning in Antioch?

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Our cleaning services help Lake County residents protect their investment.

The holiday season is rapidly approaching, and many Antioch residents are getting ready for the festivities by having their carpets and upholstery cleaned. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County uses many specialized cleaning methods to keep your home looking its best and extend the life of your carpets and upholstered furniture.

We offer these specialized cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning: a less aggressive method for short-piled carpets
• Hot Water Extraction: a deeper cleaning method for all carpet types
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: helps restore deeply soiled areas
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: the most thorough cleaning method in the industry
• Dry Cleaning: when color-fastness is an issue

Preventative Maintenance

Carpets act as a filter, trapping dust, dirt, gases, animal hair, and other soils. All carpet manufacturers agree on actions you can take between carpet cleanings to increase the life span of your carpet.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) states that 79 percent of the soil in carpet is dry soil. Vacuuming is a key component to proper care and maintenance of carpet.

Preventative maintenance actions include: 

• Regular vacuuming
• Spot removal
• Pilating the carpet to prevent matting
• Moving furniture to change traffic patterns
• Using walk-off mats to limit the amount of soil tracked onto the carpet

Call Us!

When your Antioch home or businesses needs carpet and upholstery cleaning, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County technicians have the training and experience to clean and keep your carpets and upholstery looking their best. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Wind Damage in Round Lake Beach?

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County knows that strong winds can cause property damage. Thunderstorms can cause high winds, and they can turn into tornadoes. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration offer this information on the classification of wind and wind alerts:

High Wind Warning: Take Action! Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel.

High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose items and adjust plans as necessary so you are not caught outside.

Wind Advisory: Take Action: Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong to warrant a High Wind Warning. Objects that are outdoors should be secured, and caution should be taken if driving.  

Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! A thunderstorm is happening or is imminent in the warning area. Severe thunderstorms have wind gusts of 58 miles per hour and or hail one inch or larger. Seek shelter inside a sturdy building.

Preparing for High Wind

• Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches
• Remove loose objects outdoors, on patios, roofs, or balconies that could blow away.
• Shutter windows securely and brace outside doors
• Bring in unsecured objects from outside and secure objects that could blow away and cause damage or injury

Call Us!

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County technicians are on call 24-hours a day to respond to storm damage emergencies in Round Lake Beach. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Cooking Fire in Lake Villa?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), ranges or cook-tops account for three out of every five reported home fires involving cooking equipment. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County responds to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake Villa and offers these cooking safety tips from the NFPA:

What you should know about home cooking safety

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly and remain in the kitchen while food is cooking
• Keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop

If you have a cooking fire

• Just get out! When you leave, close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number after you leave
• If you try to fight the fire, be sure others are getting out, and you have a clear way out
• Keep a lid nearby when you’re cooking to smother small grease fires. Smother the fire by sliding the lid over the pan and turn off the stovetop. Leave the pan covered until it is completely cooled.
• For an oven fire, turn off the heat and keep the door closed

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County technicians are on call 24-hours a day to respond to fire damage emergencies in Lake Villa. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Contents Restoration Services for Grayslake?

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

We treat your belongings with great care and consideration.

When water damages your Grayslake home or business, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® We provide a full range of water damage restoration services including contents restoration for your belongings. At all times, we will work to restore, versus replace your property. We pretest every item to ensure we are using the most effective cleaning method, and may use one or a combination of the following:

• 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 

Call Us!

When you experience water damage, fast mitigation is key to minimizing the potential for further water damage. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County technicians are on call 24-hours a day to serve you. Call us today at 224-372-7772. We’ll restore your water-damaged contents in Grayslake, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fast 24-Hour Emergency Response Time in Fox Lake?

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

We restore property damage 24-hours a day in Fox Lake and McHenry Counties.

Fox Lake residents benefit from our fast emergency response time.

When you have a fire, water, or storm damage emergency, our fast response time can make the difference between an easy restoration and a more lengthy, time-consuming repair. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County follows the one-four-eight-hour rule. This means:

One hour: we will respond to your call within one hour or less

Four hours: we will be onsite within four hours of your call

Eight hours: we will contact your insurance adjuster within eight hours of your call

Fire and water damage can be stressful for you and your family. We will always treat you and your loved ones with the empathy and the respect you deserve, and we will and treat your belongings with great care and special consideration. We offer a full range of cleaning and restoration services and can manage any restoration from start to finish, giving you one convenient point of contact for the entire job. We will also help you with the insurance process and paperwork.

Call Us Today!

Property damage can happen at any time of the day or night. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County technicians are on call 24-hours a day and typically arrive onsite within four hours of your call. We have the training, equipment, and experience to restore any size property damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Vandalism and Graffiti Damage in Antioch?

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

We restore vandalism and graffiti damage in Lake County.

The writing was on the wall.

Vandalism and graffiti damage can compromise any business. People are less likely to enter a store or business that has evidence of vandalism or graffiti damage. When you discover your commercial business has vandalism and graffiti damage, it is important to quickly mitigate and restore the damage to deter the vandals from striking again.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County has a team of technicians ready to restore vandalism and graffiti damage in Antioch. When there are broken windows or doors, it is important to replace and repair them quickly to prevent water damage and mold growth.

Our technicians are specially trained to restore vandalism and graffiti from surfaces including driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, plastic, glass, and masonry. Depending on the nature of the damage, they may use any of the following services:

• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Debris removal
• Water damage restoration
• Fire damage restoration
• Mold damage restoration
• Contents cleaning

Call Us!

When you need vandalism restoration services for your Antioch business or home, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians have the training and experience to restore property damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Contents Restoration Services for Round Lake Beach?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

We restore fire-damaged heirlooms and keepsakes in Lake County.

Round Lake Beach residents want to know.

Fires cause many types of damage. Smoke, smoke odor, soot, and water left from the firefighting efforts all require different cleaning methods. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County’s restoration technicians have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to safely clean and restore your precious keepsakes and belongings to the pre-damage condition in most cases. We pretest every item to ensure we are using the most effective cleaning method. Here are some of the methods we may use to restore your home’s contents:

• 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

Call Us!

When you need contents cleaning and restoration services for your Round Lake Beach home or business, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians have the training to restore your belongings to preloss condition, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Sewage Spill in Ingleside, IL?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in commercial damage mitigation in Northwest Lake County.

Sewage Spills Are Dangerous

SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County technicians are on-call 24-hours a day in Ingleside, IL, and have required safety gear and equipment to handle any form of a sewage spill.

Sewer system water, or “Category 3 black water” carries dangerous viruses and bacteria, so it is imperative for the health and safety of your employees and customers to mitigate the damage as quickly as possible.

This water is highly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Blackwater can come from flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with fecal matter, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth. Blackwater may also contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes.

Sewage backups happen for many reasons. Some examples are:

• Blockages due to tree roots
• Broken or collapsed sewer lines
• Septic tank obstructions
• City sanitary mainline obstructions

Call Us Today!

When you have a sewage spill or another form of commercial damage, SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at (224) 372-7772

We’ll restore your commercial damage in Ingleside, IL, “Like it never even happened.” 

Franchisees are Independently Owned and Operated.

Graffiti Damage in Fox Lake, IL?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate commercial property damage 24-hours a day in Northwest Lake County.

Graffiti and Vandalism Sends the Wrong Message

Graffiti damage and vandalism are never a good look for your commercial business. When you experience a property damage emergency such as graffiti or another form of vandalism it is important to act quickly, as damage like this can send the wrong message to your customers and employees.

Faster to Any Size Disaster in Fox Lake, IL

At SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County, we have been mitigating graffiti and property damage in Fox Lake, IL for years. We have a team of highly trained technicians on-call 24-hours a day to assist you with any vandalism emergency you may have every day of the year. When we arrive, we will immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process. We can also help you with the insurance process and paperwork.

Highly Trained Technicians

Our technicians have the advanced training to clean and restore graffiti from many types of surfaces, including:

• Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
• General cleaning and graffiti removal
• Odor removal and deodorization
• Debris removal

Call Us Today!

When your Fox Lake, IL home or commercial business has a graffiti or other property damage emergency, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Call us today at (224) 372-7772

We’ll restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Storm Damage in Northwest Lake County

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage mitigation in Long Lake, IL.

Storm Damage Tips

You never know when storm damage might occur, and when it does, it’s important to mitigate the damage quickly to avoid costly structural repairs. SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County offers these helpful tips from our website on what to do and what not to do after flooding:

What To Do After Flooding

• 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 After Flooding

• 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 the ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When you have a storm damage emergency [franchise name and hyperlink] has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at (224) 372-7772. We’ll restore your storm damage in Long Lake, IL, “Like it never even happened.”  

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Thunderstorm preparedness in Round Lake Beach, IL

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms are beautiful, but they can also be dangerous.  They can cause severe damage to your home and property in Round Lake Beach, IL, Thunderstorms include lightning and can:

• Include winds over 50 MPH
• Create hail
• Cause flash floods
• Cause tornadoes

In most places, a thunderstorm can happen at any time of the year and at any time of the day.

SERVPRO® of Northwest Lake County knows you cannot prevent a thunderstorm, but you can prepare:

• Know the risk for thunderstorms in Round Lake Beach, IL
• Sign up for your community’s warning system
• Cut down or trim trees that may fall on your home or office
• Install surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system

SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County 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 in office or home
• 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.

SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County is independently owned and operated.

Mold Problem in Venetian Village, IL?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to mold damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Northwest Lake County.

Oh no, mold!

Did you know that in the right conditions, mold can spread throughout your home in as little as forty-eight hours? SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County has been providing mold mitigation and remediation services in Venetian Village, IL area for years. Here is some information from our website about what causes mold to grow.

Understanding Mold

Microscopic mold spores exist naturally, almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors, so removing all mold from a home or business is impossible. Although mold can be mitigated and remediated, it can never be completely eradicated. This is why:

• Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors
• Mold spores are microscopic and float in the atmosphere, and can enter your home through windows, doors, or air conditioning and heating systems, or even come indoors on your clothing or pet
• Mold spores thrive on moisture
• Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water 
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. or 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

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is ready to respond to mold infestation emergencies in Venetian Village, IL 24-hours a day. Call us today at (224) 372-7772

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Washing Machine Washout in Third Lake, IL

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in water damage restoration in Northwest Lake County.

Washing Machine Maintenance Tips for Third Lake, IL

Did you know that supply line failure is one of the top causes of water damage involving a washing machine? SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County has seen the damage a burst supply line can do. Here are some washing machine supply line maintenance tips:

Conduct monthly inspections of the hot and cold washing machine supply lines.

• Look for signs the supply hose may be ready to fail—blisters in the hose, worn tubing, stress cracks, or a loose connection
• Replace the supply hose with a reinforced steel braided hose if it shows any sign of wear
• Tighten the connection if it feels loose. The most common site of failure is near the connection where the hose bends.
• Replace supply hoses every five years, even if there is no obvious deterioration or wear
• Some signs of deterioration may occur from the inside out and may not be visible until it is too late
• When replacing washing machine supply hoses, always choose a reinforced steel braided hose over the traditional un-reinforced rubber hose. These hoses will last longer and are far less likely to result in a catastrophic water loss.

Call Us!

When you have a water damage emergency, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at (224) 372-7772

We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Third Lake, IL “Like it never even happened.” 

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooded Bathroom in Northwest Lake County?

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in water damage mitigation in Northwest Lake County.

Sinking Feeling in Grayslake, IL

I was down in my office for a couple of hours on a conference call before I heard a funny dripping and splashing sound coming down the stairs. When I investigated, I discovered that my daughter had left the sink running in my Grayslake, IL home. There was a shallow lake in the bathroom, and water was running down the hallway. The stairway carpeting was saturated. My neighbor told me to call SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County, and I’m glad I did.

I was amazed at how quickly the SERVPRO technicians arrived. They quickly extracted the water and set up powerful air blowers and movers to dry the upstairs and downstairs areas that were flooded. Thanks to their fast mitigation, the floors were not warped or damaged, and there was no damage to the walls and baseboards. They documented the drying process and cleaned, sanitized, and deodorized the affected areas.

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

Call Us!

When you have a water damage emergency, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is ready to respond 24-hours a day. Call us today at (224) 372-7772

We’ll clean and restore your water damage in Grayslake, IL “Like it never even happened.” 

Franchisees are Independently Owned and Operated.

Contents Restoration Services in Lake Catherine, IL

9/8/2021 (Permalink)

We are leaders in water damage restoration in Northwest Lake County.

When my Lake Catherine, IL home basement flooded, we were out of town, and the damage wasn’t discovered for a few days. Everything that touched the ground was damaged by water. All the furniture and cardboard boxes stored down in the basement were standing in water. My insurance adjuster told me to call SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County.

The SERVPRO technicians arrived quickly, assessed the situation, and immediately began the cleanup and restoration process. They contacted my insurance adjuster and helped me with the insurance paperwork and process. Fortunately, they were able to clean and restore most of the items from my basement and return them to preloss condition. Here are the cleaning methods they used:

• 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

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County has a team of highly trained technicians with the specialized training and experience to clean and restore your keepsakes. Call us today at (224) 372-7772. We’ll restore your water damage in Lake Catherine, IL, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Independently Owned and Operated.

Sewer Backup in Lake Villa?

9/6/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to sewer emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Do you know that there are three categories for contaminated water? Sewer water is listed as category 3 “black water,” and is grossly unsanitary. When your sewer system backs up in Lake Villa, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians have the advanced training and equipment to safely clean and restore your home or business.

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• If left untreated can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow, toilet overflow with some urine but no feces, or dishwasher overflow.

• It May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested. Any contact should be avoided.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Call Us!

When you need sewage cleanup and restoration services for your Lake Villa home or business, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day to respond to water damage emergencies. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Candle Fire in Grayslake Home?

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage in Lake County 24-hours a day!

Candle Safety Tips for Grayslake

My daughter left a candle burning on a wooden shelf and went to bed. She woke to the sound of the smoke detector beeping and was able to put out the fire herself. Even though the fire was contained to the bedroom, there was smoke odor and fire residue all over the walls, and the whole house smelled like smoke.

 SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is a trusted leader in fire damage restoration. Here are some candle safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

• Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily
• Put candle holders on a sturdy, uncluttered surface
• Light candles carefully
• Keep your hair and any loose clothing away from the flame
• Don’t burn a candle all the way down — put it out before it gets too close to the holder or container
• Never use a candle if oxygen is used in the home
• Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready to use during a power outage. Never use candles.

Call Us!

When you need fire restoration services for your Grayslake home or business, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day to respond to fire damage emergencies. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Mold Outbreak in Fox Lake Business?

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate and remediate mold damage for Lake County businesses.

Although we are better known for our fire and water emergency restoration services; we also provide commercial mold mitigation and remediation services in Fox Lake. Businesses and other structures located around lakes are subjected to higher-than-normal moisture levels, and this extra moisture encourages mold growth.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is a trusted leader in mold mitigation services. Our technicians have the equipment, advanced training, and experience to remediate mold quickly and efficiently. Here is some information from our website about mold:

• 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 air conditioning and 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
• 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.

Call Us Today!

When you need mold mitigation services for your commercial business or home, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day to respond to commercial mold damage emergencies in Fox Lake. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Thunderstorm Preparedness Tips for Antioch?

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County responds to storm damage emergencies in Antioch 24-hours a day. Thunderstorms are common this time of the year, so it is important to be prepared. Here are some thunderstorm safety tips from the American Red Cross:

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms

• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household

• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be away from windows, skylights, and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail.

• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm

• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches

• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home

• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods

• Review the Be Red Cross Ready - Thunderstorm Safety Checklist

Call Us Today!

When you need storm damage restoration services for your home or commercial business, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day in Antioch to respond to storm damage emergencies. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Escape Planning Tips for Lake Villa?

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration services in Lake County.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County responds to fire damage emergencies in the Lake Villa area 24-hours a day and can be onsite within four hours of your call in most cases. Having a fire escape plan that all members of the household have tested can save lives. Here are some tips for making a fire escape plan from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Draw a map of your home. Show all doors and windows.
• Visit each room. Find two ways out.
• All windows and doors should open easily. You should be able to use them to get outside.
• Make sure your home has smoke alarms. Push the test button to make sure each alarm is working.
• Pick a meeting place outside. It should be in front of your home. Everyone will meet at the meeting place.
• Make sure your house or building number can be seen from the street
• Talk about your plan with everyone in your home
• Learn the emergency phone number for your fire department
• Practice your home fire drill!
• Make your own home fire escape plan using grid paper

Call Us!

When you need fire restoration services for your home or commercial business, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day in Lake Villa to respond to fire damage emergencies. Call us today at 224-372-7772.

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooding in Round Lake Beach Residence?

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County responds to water damage emergencies in Round Lake Beach 24-hours a day, and we know that water can cause serious structural damage if the water damage is not mitigated and restored quickly. Here is a water damage timeline that describes the damage water can do in a short period of time:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, 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

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may 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
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business is damaged by water, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day in Round Lake Beach to respond to water damage emergencies. Call us today at 224-372-7772. We’ll restore your water damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Escape Planning for Lake Villa?

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

We have trusted fire damage restoration specialists in Lake County.

Fire Escape Planning for Lake Villa Families

Do you have a fire escape plan for your household, and have you practiced it lately? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), while 71 percent of American households have developed a fire escape plan, only 47 percent have practiced it.

SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County responds to fire damage emergencies in Lake County 24-hours a day, and offer these fire escape safety tips from the NFPA: 

• Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
• Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
• Have an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole, or a mailbox) a safe distance away from the home where everyone can meet
• Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year
• Practice using different ways out
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them
• Close doors behind you as you leave

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business is damaged by fire, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day in Lake Villa to respond to fire damage emergencies. Call us today at 224-372-7772. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips for Grayslake?

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lake County.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives in Grayslake

Do you know when the last time you inspected your smoke alarm system was? SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County responds to fire damage emergencies in Lake County 24-hours a day, and we have witnessed firsthand the lives saved by smoke alarms. Here is some information from the National Fire Protection Association about smoke alarms:

Smoke Alarms Safety Tips

• A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire
• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area
• Install alarms on every level of the home 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years

Call Us!

When your home or commercial business is damaged by fire, SERVPRO^® of Northwest Lake County is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on-call 24-hours a day in Grayslake to respond to fire damage emergencies. Call us today at 224-372-7772. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.”

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Advanced Technology in Northwest Lake County

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

We use advanced technology to restore property damage in SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County.

Advanced Technologies and Specialized Training for Northwest Lake County

At SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County, we use advanced technology, and our technicians undergo initial and continuous training to keep up-to-speed on technological advancements and industry best practices. This saves our customers time and money and allows our technicians to restore residential and commercial properties in Northwest Lake County to preloss condition faster and more cost-effectively.

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is the non-profit certifying body for the restoration industry. The IICRC sets the cleaning and restoration standards we follow. These standards incorporate the field of psychometry, allowing our technicians to become proficient in manipulating temperature and relative humidity through moisture detection and measurement equipment. This is important because excess moisture can cause further damage to a structure and encourage mold and other microbial damage.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

• An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Call Us Today!

When you have a property damage emergency in Northwest Lake County SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. We’ll restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.”  

Franchisees are Independently Owned and Operated.

Storm Damage in Northwest Lake County?

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage mitigation in Northwest Lake County.

Storm Damage Tips

You never know when storm damage might occur, and when it does, it’s important to mitigate the damage quickly to avoid costly structural repairs. SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County offers these helpful tips from our website on what to do and what not to do after flooding:

What To Do After Flooding

• 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 After Flooding

• 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 the ceiling is wet and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When you have storm damage emergency SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. We’ll restore your storm damage in Northwest Lake County “Like it never even happened.”  

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Sewage Spill in Northwest Lake County

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in commercial damage mitigation in Northwest Lake County.

Sewage Spills Are Dangerous

SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County technicians are on-call 24-hours a day in Northwest Lake County and have required safety gear and equipment to handle any form of a sewage spill.

Sewer system water, or “Category 3 black water” carries dangerous viruses and bacteria, so it is imperative for the health and safety of your employees and customers to mitigate the damage as quickly as possible.

This water is highly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Blackwater can come from flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with fecal matter, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth. Blackwater may also contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes.

Sewage backups happen for many reasons. Some examples are:

• Blockages due to tree roots
• Broken or collapsed sewer lines
• Septic tank obstructions
• City sanitary mainline obstructions

Call Us Today!

When you have a sewage spill or another form of commercial damage, SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County has a team of highly trained restoration technicians ready to assist you 24-hours a day. We’ll restore your commercial damage in Northwest Lake County, “Like it never even happened.”  

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Wildfire Safety Plan for Young People in Northwest Lake County?

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage mitigation in Northwest Lake County

Home Alone in Northwest Lake County

Do you have an evacuation plan in place for your kids in the event they are home alone when a wildfire or home fire breaks out? SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County wants Northwest lake County families to know that having an evacuation plan in place for your loved ones to follow when you aren’t home can save lives. Here are some tips from the National Fire Prevention Association for developing a plan:

• Work with a trusted neighbor close by who know your children and can evacuate them
• Set up a schedule with other working parents in the neighborhood so that someone is always at home and can make sure the children are safe
• Pack a “Go Bag” with treasured items, water, food, prescriptions they can grab and leave with quickly
• Practice together with their pets if time allows to crate them for removal
• Have a designated contact, like an out-of-town family member programmed into their cell phone so you can find each other quickly

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency, SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County is ready to respond 24-hours a day.  We’ll clean and restore your fire damage in Northwest Lake County “Like it never even happened.” 

Franchisees are is Independently Owned and Operated.

Here is what you can expect during the first several hours after contacting the restoration company.

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Northwest Lake County 2021

1. A Quick Response
When a building has been damaged, the response time is an important factor in how time-consuming and how costly restoration will be. SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County is always open, so you can expect to hear back within an hour after you have contacted them about the emergency. Once you have provided them with the necessary information, they will begin preparing to address the needs of your client.

2. Arrival to the Damaged Site
With over 1,700 locations, SERVPRO can arrive quickly to any emergency. They can be on site to begin the restoration process within four hours. This fast response can make a huge difference if your client’s home has suffered a great deal of damage. Beginning the process more quickly will result in less damage overall which can end up costing the insurance agency less money.

3. Inspection and a Verbal Briefing
Once the damage restoration specialists have arrived, they can inspect the home to determine the extent of the damage and decide on the best course of action moving forward. This should all happen within eight hours of your initial call. They will provide a verbal briefing so that you and your client are aware of what will happen next. Their quick 24 hour response will allow them to begin mitigation as soon as possible to prevent any further damage before they begin work on necessary repairs.
Because it can spread and worsen quickly, the 24 hour period after damage has occurred is crucial. SERVPRO’s fast response will save the agency money and allow your client to have their home back sooner.

How To Use IICRC Classifications To Assess Flood Damage

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you have endured flood damage to your Lake County home – SERVPRO can help you. We are an experienced flood damage restoration and repair team, with access to sophisticated tools and the finest equipment. If your property needs saving, we are the right choice. The first that thing we do, once we arrive on site, is to conduct a full inspection. This is designed to help us determine the extent and nature of the damage. The IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) categories flood damage according to four key classifications. The SERVPRO technicians will use this guide to shape their plan of action and decide which repairs are required.

Here is some more information on the IICRC classifications and what they might mean for your property.

Class One: Limited Intrusion
This is the least severe type of flood damage. A small amount of water has entered the home. There is minimal damage to walls and soft furnishings. Depending on the size, shape, and location of the affected space, large fans can likely be used to dry it out.

Class Two: Intrusion With Some Spread
Here, flood water has started to spread. If your house was impacted by a storm, the damage is almost going to have advanced beyond small pools of water. It may have risen into the walls and started to soak into timber, concrete, and insulation materials. The water has reached the subflooring beneath carpets. Industrial drying machines (and carpet lifters) will be brought in to absorb the excess moisture.

Class Three: Invasive Liquid
The walls, ceilings, soft furnishings, and floors are all damp and need to be dried quickly. Most are fully saturated with water. Water lines on the walls extend more than two feet above the floor. This tends to occur when ceilings leak (during heavy rainfall), and water seeps through the walls. Dehumidifiers and dryers can be used to restore the home, but some materials may be unsalvageable.

Class Four: Severe Invasion
In the most severe cases, objects not usually affected by flooding have been compromised. For instance, paintings high up on walls, attics (if the danger is from natural flooding), and crawlspaces. At SERVPRO, we’re committed to saving as many of your possessions as possible, but extensive damage can render some items irreparable. We will, however, inform you of the fact before disposing of any materials. Serious flood damage may require you to move out of the property while we secure its structural safety and install heavy duty drying machines.

Whether your home has been damaged by a storm or by something more familiar, like a burst pipe, assessing the damage is an important part of formulating a response. SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County is a locally based service, which means that our response is always fast.

Water Damage Timeline

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 224-372-7772

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, 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.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may 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.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard 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 biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Does Your Lake County Home Have A Mold Problem?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold 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 your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 224-372-7772

We are here for you

6/1/2021 (Permalink)

Here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Faster Response to the Lake County Area

Since SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County is 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.

Why SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County? We are here for you with a Faster Response 24 Hours a day 7 days a week

Call 224-372-7772

Anytime day or night we have an emergency  team available 24 hours 7 days week. Commercial and Residential Water, Fire, Storm, Flooding, Mold Remediation, Bio-Hazard Clean-up and Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning. 

You will actually speak with a personal team member 24/7, no answering machine or recordings.

You can also email SERVPRO of Northwest Lake County Directly: dhaigh@SERVPROnorthwestlakecounty.com for general information

Our Mission

We are a restoration company that not only repairs the damage, we restore your life and confidence that the job will be done right. Our relationships with our customers will last a lifetime.