Restoring Hope After Fire and Water Damage: Our Comprehensive Cleanup Approach

3/6/2024 (Permalink)

In the wake of a fire or water-related disaster, the journey to recovery can feel overwhelming. Homeowners are left grappling with the aftermath, unsure of where to turn for help. At SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee & World Golf Village, we understand the profound impact of such events, which is why we're committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive restoration services. In this blog post, we'll explore how our team approaches fire and water damage restoration, helping homeowners rebuild their lives and communities.

Personalized Assessment and Rapid Response:
No two disasters are alike, which is why our first step is always a personalized assessment of the situation. Our experienced technicians arrive on-site promptly to assess the extent of the fire or water damage and develop a tailored restoration plan. We understand the urgency of the situation and work swiftly to mitigate further damage and begin the restoration process.

Fire Damage Restoration:
Fire damage can leave behind a trail of destruction, from charred debris to smoke residues and lingering odors. SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee & World Golf Village's fire damage restoration process is comprehensive and meticulous. We employ state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to remove debris, clean surfaces, and eliminate odors, restoring your home to its pre-fire condition.

Water Damage Remediation:
Water damage often accompanies fire damage due to firefighting efforts, exacerbating the destruction and posing additional challenges. Our team is well-equipped to handle all aspects of water damage remediation, from extracting standing water to drying out the affected area and preventing mold growth. We work diligently to restore your home to a safe and habitable condition, minimizing further damage and ensuring your peace of mind.

Full-Service Restoration:
At SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee & World Golf Village, we're more than just a restoration company—we're your partners in rebuilding and recovery. Our comprehensive restoration services include everything from structural repairs and reconstruction to content cleaning and odor removal. We're committed to going above and beyond to restore your home and your sense of security, so you can focus on rebuilding your life.

In the aftermath of a fire or water-related disaster, hope can feel distant—but it's never out of reach. With SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee & World Golf Village by your side, you can rest assured that you're not alone in this journey. Our experienced team is here to provide compassionate support and expert restoration services, helping you rebuild your home and your future. When disaster strikes, let us turn tragedy into triumph, one restoration at a time.

Home Cooking Fire Risk Peaks on Thanksgiving Day

11/15/2023 (Permalink)

With the holiday season approaching, home cooking is gearing up, but this surge in culinary activities also brings an increased risk of cooking fires. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that cooking fires account for almost half (49%) of all home fires. To ensure your holidays don't go up in smoke, it's crucial to be familiar with and practice safe cooking habits.

Thanksgiving stands out as the leading day for home cooking fires, surpassing the daily average for such incidents by more than three times, according to the NFPA. To prevent cooking fires, the NFPA recommends these basic safety measures:

1. Maintain a clean cooking area and keep flammable items (dish towels, oven mitts, packaging) at least three feet away from cooking equipment.
2. Stay vigilant while cooking, using a timer to monitor foods with longer cooking times.
3. Recognize that the primary cause of cooking fires and fire-related deaths is unattended cooking, so be present in or near the kitchen at all times while cooking.

For those opting for a turkey fryer on Thanksgiving, it's important to note that over two-thirds of home cooking fires begin with the ignition of cooking materials, including food, fat, and grease. The NFPA strongly advises against using these fryers due to their use of large amounts of oil at high temperatures. If you choose to use one, carefully follow all placement, usage, and safety instructions.

In case the unexpected occurs, SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee & World Golf Village specializes in disaster restoration, cleanup, and repair services. They excel in mitigating damage and ensuring that the aftermath is "Like it never even happened" for both commercial and residential customers. For more information or to schedule a free estimate, contact their office at 904-429-4457!

How High Heat Waves Effect Your Floridian Homes

7/13/2023 (Permalink)

High temps can have severe effects on your home or business property. Here are parts of your property that can be affected, according to experts.

Each summer, millions of residents, and tourists alike, flock to the Floridian outdoors to get their fix of warm days and sunny beaches. Most are unaware of just how hot it can get in Florida. In fact, experts are now saying that the globe had the hottest June on record, and is on track for the hottest July, with the first few weeks recorded as being the warmest on record.

Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the state of Florida is always influenced by tropical moisture, especially in the summer. This is why we Floridians must not only keep in mind the actual climate temperatures, but also the overall heat index created by extreme humidity.

Excessive heat can be a danger to you, your pets, and your property. But what, exactly, can happen to your property in the event of extreme heat? Here are areas of your home or business likely to be impacted by high temperatures.

It can have severe effects on your home or business property. Here are parts of your property that can be affected, according to experts.

Pipes

It goes without saying that water usage increases during heat waves. With more usage, comes more of a likelihood of them leaking or bursting.

Floors

Extreme heat has the capacity to warp and expand floorboards. And, unfortunately, hardwood flooring is the most susceptible to high temperatures.

Attic and Roofs

As the highest part of the home or property, the attic generally lacks sufficient airflow. And, with the excessive moisture heat brings, it can even cause your roof and/or shingles to deteriorate. That’s because roofs can expand and warp in high heat, causing shingles to crack. And, with a crack in your roof comes the high possibility of leaks into your property.

Foundation

Even the “below deck” is not safe from extreme temperatures. That’s because when the ground heats up, it causes soil to shrink and evaporate moisture. This excess can cause soil to separate from the footing of your structure, which in the end leads to damage to your foundation.

Paint

Lastly, excessive heat can cause paint to flake and peel. Believe it or not, cracks or openings left by paint can serve as doorways to moisture aka mold.

Protecting your Property Against Heat

Luckily, there are a few ways that you can protect your property against these elements, starting with sealing off the places for heat to enter—your doors and windows. By weather stripping or caulking, you can seal off the unwanted heat from entering your property.

As mentioned earlier your attic can be a prime target for heat-related intrusions. Make sure to insulate your attic and consider adding an attic door cover. Heat from the attic throughout the rest of your property can be reduced by installing a door cover in the hatch or stairway that provides access to the attic.

From an electrical standpoint, consider installing a multi-stage air conditioner. These devices actually adjust their cooling output and can even do so at lower speeds. All while reducing overall air conditioning costs. You could also install a programmable thermostat. These can be lower used when cooling isn’t needed (like at night or early mornings) when you aren’t actually present in your home or on your property.

Where Can You Go For Up-To-Date Info?

In the meantime, make sure to stay up to date with the current Florida temperatures—especially the overall heat index. See below for the top three sites to visit to stay in the know this “hotter than Hades” summer season.

• Current Temperature Map of Florida
• Current Heat Index Map of Florida
• Current Watches & Warnings for Florida

SERVPRO is Ready 24/7

Excessive heat isn’t just a health hazard; it can also wreak havoc on your home or business. If you experience damage to your home or business because of heat-related issues, we are here to help!

At SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village we are highly trained professionals that will help you recover from devastating fire & water damage if you do suffer a structure fire, but we believe that prevention is better than a cure. However, we know that accidents happen. That is why our team is ready to respond to your emergency 24/7/365.

Firework Safety for Floridians: Local Laws, Prevention, and How SERVPRO can Help Hinder Hazards this Holiday Season

7/3/2023 (Permalink)

July 4 accounts for double reported fires compared to any other day, with nearly half of these incidents caused by fireworks.

In about 24 hours, Floridians will celebrate our nation’s birthday with a time-honored tradition— fireworks. And while these are fun to look at, according to officials, they come at a catastrophic price.

In fact, it is estimated that July 4 accounts for twice the number of reported fires compared to any other day, with nearly half of these incidents directly attributed to fireworks. And, specifically, officials from Florida Fire Rescue division are urging residents to leave the fireworks displays to the professionals. However, if you do decide to partake in the festivities, there are some steps that should be taken to avoid catastrophic events.

Here are ways to keep you, your family, home, and/or commercial property safe from the hazards of using consumer fireworks, according to officials.

Know Your Local Laws

Remember as a kid lighting tiny sticks on fire and then spinning them in circles until sparks almost landed on your wrist? Well those are still all you can have, according to Florida Fireworks Laws. And, a lot of local municipalities have their own approved list of sparklers you are allowed to purchase.

These are not just limited to humans. Volusia County's beaches, for example, strictly prohibit consumer-grade fireworks. That’s because they not only leave a mess but can frighten nesting sea turtles and cause birds to abandon their nests.  

Instead, check out your community calendar for commercial firework viewings. You won’t be disappointed, as Florida ranks as one of the top spots for commercial firework shows in the nation, many of them in Orlando.

Prepare Before the Celebration

Along with studying up on laws and regulations, another key practice is to always prepare your own surroundings for potential incidents.

If your local officials allow for personal use, make sure you are purchasing your fireworks from a professional provider. Never try to create your own fireworks or purchase them from an illegal source.

Prior to setting off, whether on your own property or at an outside location, always clear any dry vegetation and debris from the area. Even if you have already followed the appropriate steps so far, it is imperative to always keep a water source, whether it is a full-bucket and/or fire-extinguisher, close at hand.

Remember, keeping you and your loved ones safe is not limited to children, family, and close friends. Your furry friends have ears that are much more sensitive than ours. Make sure your pets are indoors before you begin, to reduce the risk they will run loose or get injured.

Use Caution During the Celebration

Be sure when picking your viewing spot that it is at a safe distance from where the fireworks are being ignited.

If you are the one who is providing the show, use safety eyewear, glasses or goggles, to protect your eyes while igniting fireworks. Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.

Back to sparklers again, children should never be allowed to play with or light anything other than these. Even then, sparklers should only be used under close adult supervision. While often considered a “safe” firework for the young, the tip of a sparkler burns at 1,200 degrees or higher, which can cause third degree burns.

If you happen to get one of those dreaded duds that does not ignite (or does so, pathetically), release the urge to immediately pick it up and relight it. Instead let it sit for a minimum of 20 minutes and then carefully place it in a bucket of water.

Clean-Up after the Celebration

After the show, it is tempting to call it a night and clean up in the morning. It is important instead to wait for the fireworks to cool off and then safely place them in a bucket of water. This will prevent any faulty fireworks from reigniting and creating catastrophic fire damage.

Also, be sure to pick up all matches, lighters, and any unused fireworks. These should always be out of sight and reach of children before, during and after your celebration.

Of course, if you do not want to deal with the hassle of cleaning up or the stress of closely monitoring your children, you can always get in the patriotic spirit other ways. Use glow sticks as a safe alternative to sparklers. Or pick up some noise makers or patriotic silly string from your local party supply store. Better yet, throw a birthday party, cake, and all, for the USA.

Better yet, leave the celebratory fireworks to the trained professionals.

Call us Today

At SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach, we are highly trained professionals that will help you recover from devastating fire & water damage if you do suffer a structure fire, but we believe that prevention is better than a cure. However, we know that accidents happen. That is why our team is ready to respond to your emergency 24/7/365!

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach specializes in water and fire damage clean-up and restoration services for both residential and commercial customers. For more information or to schedule a free estimate, call our office at (904)429-4457!

Rebuilding After Fire: How SERVPRO Can Restore Your Home

6/23/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employees cleaning the ceiling with equipment.

When disaster strikes in the form of a fire, it can leave behind a trail of destruction that feels overwhelming. The aftermath of a fire can be devastating, both emotionally and physically. However, amidst the chaos and despair, there is hope.

Assessing the Extent of Fire Damage:

The first step in the restoration process is to assess the extent of the fire damage. This involves a thorough inspection of your property by skilled SERVPRO technicians. They meticulously examine each affected area, evaluating the structural integrity, the extent of smoke and soot damage, and identifying any water damage caused by firefighting efforts. By conducting a comprehensive assessment, SERVPRO ensures that no damage goes unnoticed, allowing them to create an effective restoration plan tailored to your specific needs.

Mitigating Fire and Smoke Damage:

One of the most challenging aspects of fire damage restoration is dealing with the residue left behind by smoke and soot. These microscopic particles can penetrate deep into the crevices of your home, leaving behind an unpleasant odor and causing further damage if not properly addressed. SERVPRO employs advanced techniques and specialized equipment to remove soot and smoke residue, effectively eliminating unpleasant odors and preventing secondary damage.

Water Damage Restoration:

In the process of extinguishing a fire, water can often cause significant damage to your property. Excess moisture can lead to mold growth, further compromising the integrity of your home and endangering your health. SERVPRO understands the importance of swift action in water damage restoration. Our trained professionals utilize state-of-the-art drying equipment, dehumidifiers, and air movers to extract water and thoroughly dry the affected areas. By addressing water damage promptly, SERVPRO minimizes the risk of mold growth and ensures a thorough and efficient restoration process.

Restoration and Reconstruction:

After the initial cleanup, SERVPRO’s team of experts focuses on restoring your home to its pre-fire condition. Whether it's repairing structural damage, replacing damaged materials, or repainting walls, their skilled technicians have the knowledge and expertise to handle the restoration process from start to finish. SERVPRO understands the emotional toll a fire can take on homeowners, and our compassionate approach ensures that your vision for your home is brought to life with precision and care.

Experiencing a fire can be one of the most challenging moments in a homeowner's life. However, with the help of SERVPRO, you can find solace and reassurance in the midst of chaos. From assessing the extent of fire damage to mitigating smoke and water damage, and finally restoring your home to its former glory, SERVPRO’s dedicated team is committed to guiding you through the entire process. With our expertise, you can take the first step towards rebuilding and creating a new beginning in your cherished space.

How to respond to a fire damage!

3/13/2023 (Permalink)

Step One

After making sure everyone is good, give SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village a call not only for the team to provide you with knowledge but for the team to ensure you that we will take care of you!

Step Two 

There is no step two, SERVPRO will handle it from here! Our team will do many things for you and the one thing we won't do is leave you hanging! Fire damage can easily be the toughest damage that we see. This is because fire damage can not only burn structure to an ash but also because if the fire department has to use a large amount of water, then we are looking at water damage as well. SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is on call 24/7 and wants to be on site as soon as possible to get everything cleaned up and restored in no time. We also deodorize as soon as possible so that fire odor doesn't stick around, and you can breathe. Our technicians are trained to get your place looking how it looked pre-fire with top-of-the-line equipment and customer service. 

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. 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 Fire Damage Assessment

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

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

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

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

The water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority 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 from All Surfaces

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

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

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

Step 7: Restoration

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

As fire and water restoration specialists, we have the training, experience and specialized equipment necessary to restore your home or business. We are committed to providing superior service while restoring your property back to pre-fire condition.

Call Us Today – (904) 429-4457

How do fires affect our everyday life in St. Augustine?

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

Here we have a technician cleaning contaminated particles and debris caused by fire damage!

How do fires affect our everyday life in St. Augustine?

Here in the oldest city, we are lucky enough to have a community that cares for and about one another! Our fire department is the best and responds swiftly so that damages are kept to a minimum and that injuries are prevented. Here in the oldest city fires affect us by putting us out of work, school, homes and many more aspects involved in our everyday lifestyles amongst this great town many call home and many more call vacation. Fires here in town can cause for a great deal of traffic, odor, air quality, weakened structure and even water damage upon arrival of the fire department having to use water to extinguish it. 

Fire safety tips

Even one death due to a house fire is too many. Review these fire safety tips and install the proper fire prevention measures in your house. If you’d like more information, the National Safety Council has additional details on how to keep your home safe. 

• If you use space heaters or any other portable heaters, be sure to keep these heaters at least 3 feet away from any flammable objects, such as blankets or curtains.
• Space heaters should also be kept on tile or ceramic flooring — away from combustible surfaces such as carpet or a rug.
• Consider purchasing a space heater that automatically shuts off in the event it’s tipped over. 
• Be sure to extinguish the embers in a fireplace or the flame of a candle when you leave the room.
• Install a fire alarm in every room and every floor of your home. Install a carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home. Test all devices yearly and replace batteries as needed. 
• If the unthinkable happens and you do find yourself in a house fire, remember: 
• “Stop, drop, and roll” if your clothing is on fire.
• Crawl low to the floor and keep your airways covered. 
• Touch door handles to test if they’re hot before opening the door.
• To open and use a fire extinguisher, use the following acronym: PASS
• Pull the pin
• Aim low at the base of the fire
• Squeeze the handle slowly
• Sweep the nozzle side to side

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is here to work for and with you to make any fire damage like it never happened! Our team is here 24/7, 365 for any size disaster or problem! We can provide you with tips and ways to prepare and in most cases an ERP (Emergency Ready Profile), but we can't tell you when and where a fire damage might happen! We can tell you that we will have your back and get you back to normal in no time!

   CALL SERVPRO TODAY AT (904) 429-4457

Fire safety, in the historic old town!

1/27/2023 (Permalink)

Fires are one of the worst damages you can have happen to your home or property which is why we respond 24/7.

What are some main fire causes?

Cooking Accidents and Mishaps

Kitchens may be the heart of the home, but they’re also the number one place fires occur in a house, making up nearly half of all reported home fires. About two-thirds of these fires start when food or cooking materials ignite. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the majority of these fires tend to occur on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the eve of Thanksgiving

If you experience an out-of-control cooking fire in your kitchen:

• Help anyone inside safely vacate the house. Once you’re sure everyone’s out, close the door behind you and call 9-1-1.
• You can try extinguishing a small grease fire by sliding a pot lid over the pan or pot and turning off the burner. Leave the cover on until the pan is thoroughly cooled, or the fire could reignite.
• If the fire occurs in the oven, keep the oven door closed and turn off the heat.
• Never throw water on a kitchen fire! It only splatters the fire around, spreading it on counters and walls.
• Use a fire extinguisher to put out an oil fire.

To keep your Central Florida home’s kitchen safe from fire:

• Stay alert and don’t use the cooktop or oven if you’re tired or have been drinking alcohol.  
• Don’t leave the kitchen unattended, and be sure to set a timer to remind you something’s cooking, even if you’re in the room.
• Use common sense; you should keep dish towels, potholders, oven mitts, plastic bags or wrapping, and food packaging away from any appliance that produces heat or flames. Curtains too can spread flames to the wall and ceiling near the stove quickly, so ensure they are kept away from the stovetop.

As most cooking-related fires happen during frying, make sure everyone knows how to cook with oil safely:

• If the oil in a pot or pan starts to smell, or if wisps of smoke appear, the oil is too hot. Immediately turn the burner off and place the pan or pot on a cool burner or trivet.
• Heat oil slowly to the temperature needed for frying and sauteing.
• To avoid oil splashing out of the pot or pan, add ingredients slowly so oil on the stovetop doesn’t ignite.
• Always turn off the cooktop when you’re through.

Fortunately, you can avoid the majority of cooking fires simply by practicing caution in the kitchen and being as careful as possible. Experts recommend keeping a kitchen fire extinguisher close at hand, too. 

Heating Fires

Following close behind cooking fires are heating-related blazes. About 50,000 such fires occur each year, and they result in 500 deaths, 1,300 injuries, and more than a billion dollars in direct property damage.

The #1 culprit for home heating fire deaths is portable space heaters. However, heating fires don’t necessarily occur because of faulty equipment, but because homeowners don’t clean the heating equipment, including chimneys. They also tend to leave heating equipment too near to combustible items like upholstered furniture, clothing, mattresses, and bedding. It probably won’t surprise you to hear that almost half of home heating fires occur in the colder months of December, January, and February.

To protect your family and Central Florida home from heating equipment-related fires:

• They might be convenient, but it’s essential to keep portable space heaters in designated areas where they can’t be easily knocked over. Make sure they’re not too close to walls or furniture, where they pose a real hazard.
• Keep anything flammable at a minimum of three feet away from any type of heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, furnaces, and portable heaters.
• Schedule regular, yearly inspections of chimneys and heating equipment with a qualified professional.

These simple safety tips and precautions will help you prevent most heating fires!

Electrical Wiring and Electronics

Number three on our list of top causes of house fires in Central Florida is faulty electrical equipment and wiring. These fire-related hazards account for around ten percent of reported annual home fires. Electrical fires cause in excess of 1,100 injuries, nearly 500 deaths, and are responsible for about $1.4 billion in direct property damage each year. Wiring and electric-powered equipment account for the majority of electrical fires. Plugs and cords, especially extension cords, are behind approximately one percent, or 3,5000, of home fires.

Electrical wiring fires are mainly seen in older homes with outdated or faulty wiring. Here’s what to look for in your Central Florida home.

• A buildup of dust and debris which can affect your home’s electrical system performance.
• Bare wires near insulation.

A quick and easy way to check for accumulated dust in your electrical system is to remove an outlet cover or light switch cover and check for dust in the wall and around the wiring. If there’s significant dust buildup, have a professional inspect your entire system. They can clean the system out and protect your home against electrical fires.

Electronic equipment can also spark a fire, particularly when you overload outlets with extension or power cords. To prevent an electronics-related fire in your home, make sure each piece of major equipment is adequately ventilated and has a dedicated plug. If an appliance like a toaster or microwave sparks or smokes when you plug it in or turn it on, take it as a sign the appliance is not safe to use.

If you want to keep your home as safe as possible from an electrical fire, experts recommend you have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician, including electrical inspections.

Smoking-Related Fires

Cigarettes, cigars and pipes cause thousands of house fires each year that result in more than $400 million in direct property damage. Starting from something as simple as a lit cigarette or lighter, smoking-related fires are responsible for about five percent of reported house fires and 21 percent of home fire deaths.

Smoking puts your health, family, and home at risk. Careless smoking inside the home has the potential to cause serious injury and death, especially if a person is lying down and falls asleep before extinguishing whatever they’re smoking.

Quitting smoking is the surest way to avoid smoking-related fires. Otherwise, avoid a smoking-related house fire by smoking outdoors and never smoking while lying in bed or reclining on the couch or a chair. 

Candle-Related Fires

They might smell great and look beautiful, but candles cause about 8,200 house fires per year in the U.S. that result in nearly a hundred deaths, seven hundred injuries, and $3 million in direct property damage. Christmas is the #1 day for candle-related fires, with other home religious celebrations following closely behind.

About one in three fires caused by candles start in the bedroom, with falling asleep and leaving them unattended the top two contributing factors. Sixty percent occur when the candle’s too near some kind of combustible material.

If you want to enjoy candles safely, remember to:

• Never leave them lit without someone being in the room.
• Blow them out before you go to sleep.
• Keep them at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn and spark a fire.

Another option is to use solar or battery-powered flameless candles, many of which now look and smell like the real thing! 

Other top causes of house fires in Central Florida include:

• Children playing with fire.
• Christmas trees and decorations
• Barbecue grills
• Flammable liquids
• Intentionally lit fires
• Power tools

If this makes it sound like there are fire hazards all over the home, you’re right! But by being aware of their potential risk, you’re more likely to prevent a fire from occurring. You can also protect your family and property and stop a fire in its tracks with working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.

Fire Damage Restoration and Remediation

A house fire can be devastating and is always a scary experience for those who live there. Of course, we hope your home is never subjected to a fire, but if it is, SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is here to provide fire damage restoration services that include removal of items damaged by soot, grease, tobacco, electrical, or other fires. We also handle smoke damage and widespread water that occurs when a fire’s extinguished by the fire department.

 SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village most trusted restoration company and promise to make the fire damage removal process as stress-free as possible. We know that fast, quality service makes our customers feel more reassured about the fire damage restoration process while limiting further damage that ends up requiring costly repairs and renovations. Our innovative techniques and professional equipment are just what you need to ensure the least amount of disruption to your home and life.

 We’re ready to give you the support and solutions needed to keep your St. Augustine homes and family safe from the disastrous effects fire damage can cause. We also offer help dealing with your home insurance company as we work daily with insurances.

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village now at (904)429-4457

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village Helps Fire Damaged Church Get Ready For Christmas Day Service!

12/27/2022 (Permalink)

Fire's don't stop for the holidays, so neither do we. Our crews are available 24/7/365!

Right before the holiday weekend, we received a call from a local St. Augustine Church that had suffered a fire as a result of their air handler, affecting the second floor of the building, as well as the sanctuary that they were to be hosting Christmas Service in just a few days. 

We knew we would be under a time crunch, but we were determined to have them ready to welcome guests on Christmas Day. As soon as the scene was released by the St. Johns County Fire department, our crews sprang into action to first address any water damage from putting out the fire, and then assess the damages. 

Our team was able to work through the days and late into the nights leading up to their annual Christmas Day Service. From wiping down all surfaces, ceilings, and walls and cleaning over 700+ chairs, our team still had a lot of work ahead of them to make it "Like it never even happened. " But we were able to work with the church to ensure that they could successfully host Christmas Day service and their nightly Christmas Light Display show on their grounds. 

If your property suffers from a fire and you aren't sure what to do next, let the experts at SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village help walk you through and navigate through this stressful time. Our crews are ready to respond to emergency fire or water damage losses 24/7/365, call our office today at 904-429-4457!

Odor, Soot and remains of once was, who you gonna call?

10/27/2022 (Permalink)

Here we have a house on fire that looks to be among some of the worst fires. Fire is no joke as it is extremely dangerous and damaging to property

SERVPRO, that's right!

You've had a fire! Disasters happen, accidents occur, unfortunately this part of life and an event many face every day. I mean a fire can destroy someone's home or means of work that can put yourself or myself in a great amount of stress! When a fire happens sometimes its small and can be put out easily with minimal damage but if there was any kind of smoke then the ducts should be cleaned as these ducts absorb this kind of smoke. If a fire occurs on a larger scale, things can get a lot more difficult as it may bring structural damage or even water damage depending on how the fire was put out. 

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village 

Our team is highly trained, equipped and informed on all procedures for any size fire damage at any time! We should be the first call after our first responders because it's something you want to get taken care of as soon as possible! SERVPRO cleans, preserves, restores and reconstructs as needed. Our team removes soot by scrubbing and cleaning every inch of the affected area as well as all the items in the area affected. If your home has structural issues from the fire, we also do work in demo and recon. Restoring your home or business after fire damage to its pre-fire condition is our main goal. As a leading fire damage restoration company, we specialize in fire damage cleanup and fire restoration, smoke damage cleanup, and removal of smoke odors. Our team will deep clean and remove soot from walls, carpets, and upholstery. 

After any fire damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• 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!

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you give us a call. Our specialist will ask a series of questions regarding the fire damage event that will help us arrive quickly with the appropriate equipment and resources.

Step 2: Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment

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

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

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

Step 4: Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)

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

Step 5: Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces

SERVPRO uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.

Step 6: Cleaning and Sanitizing

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

Step 7: Restoration

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

Call us at (904)-429-4457

Has your property had a disastrous fire in St. Augustine?

10/7/2022 (Permalink)

After the first responders, call out team to assist you with any size fire or water damage restoration. Like it never happened!

Fire Damage Restoration

What does SERVPRO do?

Restoring your home or business after fire damage to its pre-fire condition is our main goal. As a leading fire damage restoration company, we specialize in fire damage cleanup and fire restoration, smoke damage cleanup, and removal of smoke odors. Our team will deep clean and remove soot from walls, carpets, and upholstery. Beyond the fire damage, smoke and soot can be toxic, creating a hazardous situation. Even if a fire is contained in one area, smoke and soot can travel throughout a structure. Our professionals are highly trained, with the experience, tools, and knowledge to clean up fire damage and remove the smell of smoke. In keeping with our goal to restore your home and cherished possessions to their pre-fire condition, we use appropriate personal protective measures to safely clean, deodorize and restore your property. 

How is SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village different?

• 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly trained water and fire restoration specialist
• Preferred vendor status
• Easier insurance claims process
• #1 in clean up and restoration industry

After a Fire - Use Caution

While waiting for help to arrive, safety is key:

• Assess whether it’s safe to stay in the house.
• Look out for electrical and “slip and fall” hazards.
• Only attempt activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!
• If safe to enter, and weather permits; open windows and doors to “air out” structure and help remove smoke smell.

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is home and work to the majority of the community we see every day. It means something to our team to be able to assist you when you need it most. Not only do we provide you with free ERPs to help in any case of an emergency, but we also provide free estimates when one does occur. 

Contact us at (904)-429-4457

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village

3 Steps to take After St. Johns County House Fire

10/6/2022 (Permalink)

A house fire to your St. Johns County home can completely interrupt your family’s lives. Whether the fire erupted in a single room or affected several bedrooms, it’s vital to take safety precautions before entering the home. These will yield the best results for fire restoration and ensure no one is injured in the process.

1. Schedule an Inspection

No matter how safe your home may seem, schedule an inspection first. SERVPROs fire restoration professionals will check that no live electrical components create a shock or other fire risk and will test gas piping for leaks. They’ll also look at structural damage to make sure the home is safe to enter. This crucial step will reduce the potential for injuries and also kickstart the recovery process.

2. Don’t Start Fire Restoration On Your Own

As tempting as it is to begin cleaning up, wait for the professionals. You can open windows, but avoid plugging in box fans or turning ceiling fans on. These may spark electrical problems or worsen the smoke smell and ash cover. Ideally, you shouldn’t use the electricity at all until an electrician has made necessary repairs. The best course of action is to stay off site until fire damage repair begins.

3. Stay Off Furniture

If you start clearing debris with professionals, stay off of furniture. Most pieces are salvageable if ash and soot don’t sink into the fibers. Sitting on a sofa or bed may press them in and embed a permanent ash smell. Professional fire restoration companies have the proper equipment that deep clean sofas, mattresses, chairs, and other furniture that is lined with fabric. SERVPRO will be able to wipe down the soot, deodorize the fire smell, and return your St. Augustine home back to like it never even happened. 

If you need fire restoration services in the St. Augustine, FL, area, SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village will work hard to fulfill your needs. We know how life-changing damage to a home is and are committed to helping families recover. From biohazard cleanup and water extraction, to emergency cleaning services, SERVPRO will take every measure to make your home livable again. Call (904) 429-4457 to speak with a representative and visit our website to explore our full scope of services.

Temperatures dropping, it's important to know your fire safety!

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

Our Fire damage restoration is like no other as we are efficient and effective with our techniques and our techs are professionally trained.

With temperatures here in St. Augustine dropping it's some of our favorite times of the year. The weather outside is typically nice and super enjoyable. It's especially enjoyable sitting next to a nice warm fire.

These fires are meant to be a mecca for warmth and a center piece for family and friends to hang out and stay warm. Varies activities can take place around these fires such as roasting food items, playing games, singing songs and telling stories. 

Tips when having a fire

• Always know what's above your fire
• Someone must always be watching the fire 
• Its nice to have a plan of action to rid the fire
• Make sure you have a barrier of some sorts to keep the fire from spreading like rocks or a hole
• Try to avoid looking directly into the fire
• Always sit a safe distance from the fire

Fires can be had around a fire pit, a fire place or a wood pile. They can also get out of hand or often time cause wildfires and accidental housefire leading to property fires. SERVPRO is around the clock here to service you after first responders put the fire out. These fires can sometimes destroy the interior of your property and or often times be smaller and affect the facility with soot and toxic smells. SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village will cleaning and restore your home after any size fire damage.

Call our team now @(904)429-4457

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village

Prepare for fires in the heat of summer!

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach cleans up and restores your home or building in a timely manner so you can be back in no time!

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village wants to prepare you for home or building fires. Most fires are unintentional and happen out of our control. While we don't know when these fires will happen, we know what we can do when and after these disasters do happen.

Contact us at (904)429-4457 in any case of a fire

Common causes of home & business fires

• Appliance equipment malfunction
• Lightning 
• Candles
• Holiday decorations

While we can't say when or if you'll have a fire, it's always something you want to prepare for especially in the hot and dry summers we have in Florida. Florida's weather is conductive to starting and spreading fires. SERVPRO wants to prepare you for an unfortunate event that may take place with a FREE (ERP) emergency ready profile. This is a digital or printed document explaining steps, showing where emergency equipment and shutoffs are located in the event of a disaster. This document also shows who you should call first and how to reach us again to respond in an efficient and effective way. 

You might want to know in the event of a fire where these are:

• Fire extinguisher
• Water hose
• First aid kit
• Emergency gas and electrical shutoffs
• Phone number for the proper insurance and services after the fire has been put out

These are all located in the ERP that we will come to you and put together at a time convenient for you. We want to prepare you so that we can cleanup and restore your business and or home like it never happened. Being prepared for fire damage will reduce the damage and allow us to restore at a greater pace and get you back like it never happened. In the event of a fire damage and a feeling of uncertainty SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is at your service 24/7/365 with restoration and reconstruction services along with many other services to help cope the disaster. 

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village

Emergency Fire Damage Restoration Services at a St. Augustine Medical Office

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage last a lot longer than flames do and can be devastating to your commercial property.

Over the weekend we got an emergency call from an eye clinic that suffered from a fire. The initial flames started and were confined to the employee restroom, but as we often see with fire damage, the damage spreads beyond just the source site. A fire needs oxygen-fuel-heat to exist, so when an item burns, it gives off gases, small particles of suspended matter, and aerosols. The particles and aerosols are visible smoke, smoke follows the airflow of the structure, depositing soot and smoke damage throughout the property. 

Because of this, there were multiple areas of the facility that needed fire damage restoration services. Our technicians started by removing any debris and completing any necessary demolition, they then clean and wipe down all surfaces that were covered with smoke or soot residues. That means all walls, floors, contents, medical equipment and the 300+ pairs of eyeglasses. Since the smoke traveled through the air duct system, a duct cleaning was needed to restore proper and clean air flow to the facility. Wiping down all surfaces can be a timely process as different surfaces require different techniques and cleaning methods, and may require several passes. 

Since this loss occurred on a Saturday, our team worked through the day and night Saturday and Sunday so that the office would be able to open and see scheduled patients that Monday morning. At SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village, we strive to minimize business disruption when it comes to navigating commercial water and fire damage because we know that lost time or down time means a loss in business and income. Our crews will work around your business hours and needs to complete the work, in this case it was working through the weekend to get the facility ready to open on Monday, cease work for the work week, then pick up again over the weekend. 

Fire damage restoration can help restore your commercial property to pre-fire condition, but it’s important to act fast to get fire remediation specialists out as quickly as possible to address the damage. If you find yourself dealing with commercial property fire damages, trust SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village, and our professional fire remediation services that we’re known for. With immediate emergency service 24/7, call us at 904-429-4457 and our trained fire technicians will be there to restore your commercial property damaged by fire.

You Can Count on SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine for Fire Damage Restoration

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

St. Johns County can count on SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine for emergency fire damage restoration!

Our number one priority here at SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is returning water and fire damaged areas to preloss condition, making it "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have been helping home and business owners recover from fire damages since 1967. You can count on SERVPRO of Greater Saint Augustine 24 hours a day 365 days a year. 

Structural Cleaning- After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Here at SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village our professionals will begin pretesting for restorability and will start working from the source of the damage outward. This process determines the proper cleaning method for the loss and focuses on saving your time. Depending on the fire damage extent, a local SERVPRO professional may even be able to reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. A SERVPRO professional will clean to prepare for painting. This process deodorizes and ensures the new layer of paint will adhere properly to the surface. 

Contents Cleaning - All of the fire restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO professionals can provide both wet or dry cleaning services. Soot residue can be both hard to see or very overwhelming. Our SERVPRO team will be vigilant of wiping all content materials of soot. Additionally, items such as electronics, art, and bedding, will also be cleaned and deodorized. Your local SERVPRO has documentation of an inventory list of all “to be claimed” items if requested. 

Deodorization - St. Johns County can count on SERVPRO to use specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. Our crews use top of the line deodorization equipment and processes to remove the source of odor. Ask our SERVPRO professionals about our Ultra Low Volume (ULV) Foggers and our Thermal Foggers. Check out our Fire Damage Emergency Tips from our local IICRC certified crew! 

We also provide a number of services for emergency water removal, water damage and mold remediation! Call SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village to schedule a free estimate (904) 429-4457! 

How Can SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine Restore My Home From Fire Damage?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath and damage from a fire can be extremely stressful, let SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine help you every step of the way!

Once the fire has been extinguished by St. Johns County Fire Rescue, you are then facing the daunting question now what? Next comes fire damage restoration, fortunately, our experts have the experience to clean smoke and soot residues and eliminate orders to get your property back to pre-fire condition, "Like it never even happened."

You may be asking yourself, "Is there anything I can do to help move the process along?" Keep reading below to learn the most common questions asked when fire and smoke damage are present. 

Can I Start Cleaning What I Can Before Brining in Professionals? 

If you try to scrub away fire damage residues like soot, you run the risk of further damaging your home. Fragile surfaces and materials may tear or continue to stain because of aggressive cleaning. When leaving the cleaning to the professionals, you can have peace of mind knowing that our technicians are trained and have the proper equipment and materials to safely restore and clean your home and its belongings. 

Is the Damage left from the Fire and Soot Permanent? 

Fire damage residues left in your home are not permanent. A fire creates different kinds of smoke throughout its duration based on the materials it burns, the speed of combustion, and the amount of oxygen present. When synthetic materials burn, they create soot that clings to surfaces, whereas residues resulting from natural substances such as wood cause let soot to adhere, though still difficult to clean. Fires that burn slow and lack oxygen produce wet smoke that can be extremely difficult to remove compared to quick-burning fires that create dry smoke. Our experts are trained to know how to assess the type of smoke caused by the fire and how to address it.

Can You Adress the Smoke Odor Left from the Fire?

Yes, to eliminate the smoke odor and deodorize your home our technicians can take several steps. 

• We utilize sprayers to disperse deodorizing chemicals on heavily damaged surfaces
• Perform dust cleaning systems to clean odors from your HVAC system
• Place air scrubbers throughout the affected areas to pull odor particles from the air
• Use foggers to disperse deodorizing particles throughout your house.

Throughout the whole fire damage restoration process, we will document the damages to your home to assist you in working with insurance adjusters.

A fire can be a traumatizing experience, so it is essential to seek professional help to address the damages as soon as you can. The sooner our technicians can assess the situation, the better chance they have of successfully restoring your home before the damage has time to worsen. If you experience a fire, you can count on SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village to restore your home back to preloss condition. We are available to respond to your emergency 24/7/365, call us at 904-429-4457! 

February is Responsible Pet Owners Month! Learn How To Incorporate Pets Into Your Emergency Plans!

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Having a pet alert decal in your window can help firefighters in the event your pets are still in the home!

Did you know that February is Responsible Pet Owners Month? As pet owners, we never want to imagine a situation where our furbabies are in danger, but according to the American Red Cross, an estimated 500,000 pets are affected by fires annually and about 1,000 home fires are accidents caused by pets each year. While we cannot predict when a disaster is going to strike, we can plan and prepare for it.
The most loving thing we can do is plan ahead just in case, and include our pets in family emergency plans. By following the steps below, you can begin to prepare for an emergency situation.

Take Safety Precautions:

• Check that you have multiple smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home, they are functioning correctly and that you change the batteries twice a year.
  
  
• Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with proper identification and to date license in case you get separated during an emergency

Protection if Your Not Home:

We would hope that should an emergency situation occur, we would be home to get our pets to safety, but you should take precautions in case you're not home and your pet is alone when a fire starts.

• If possible, keep your pet near an exit so they have a better chance of getting out, use a pet gate to keep them in a designated area by an exit.
  
  
• Keep collars on and leashes nearby, but be sure not to block a potential exitway. 
  
  
• Get a pet fire sticker to hang in your front window to alert firefighters that you have pets inside. The sticker will have a list of important information like the number of pets, type of pets, and contact information.

Plan Your Escape Route:

Your fire safety plan should start with identifying all of the possible exits and then planning your evacuation route. Note things like if the front door is blocked, which window could be used as an exit and then have a designated meeting spot outside the home that is a safe distance from the fire.
A few things to note when planning for a pet is knowing your pet's hideaway spots.

• Do they have a favorite spot or somewhere they retreat to in chaos? Start there.
  
  
• Keep a pet emergency kit handy with a leash, carrier, food for your pet, and any needed medications, but ensure it is not blocking an exit.
  
  
• Designate a family member to be in charge of evacuating with the pets
  
  
• Practice fire drills with your pet

We love our pets like family, but it is important to remember that we shouldn't put our lives, or family members' lives in danger during a fire. If for whatever reason you are unable to quickly locate your pet during a fire and the area is unsafe, you must evaluate immediately. Once you are safely out of the house, do not go back in for any reason, notify the fire department that there are pets inside and let the professionals handle them.

Plan a Place to Stay:

Unfortunately, if your home suffers from fire damage there is a chance that your home may be uninhabitable for a while. Plan ahead to ensure that you have a safe, pet-friendly place for your pet to stay in the meantime, it could be a friend, family member, neighbor, or pet-friendly hotel.

Prevent your Pets from Starting Fires:

A big part of your pet fire safety plan should be eliminating and preparing for potential fire safety risks.

• If your home has a fireplace, consider getting a pet gate to ensure they keep a safe distance.
  
  
• Candles: curious puppies and playful kittens can easily knock over a candle and not only injure themselves, but also start a fire. Never leave a lit candle unattended with a pet, even for a minute. Consider switching to battery-operated, flameless candles.
  
  
• Stovetops and ovens: Pet's accidentally turning stove knobs is the leading cause of pet-generated house fires. If your pet can reach it, they can touch it so consider protective covers to gating off the kitchen.
  
  
• Electrical cords: pets are playful and sometimes they may think that an electrical cord or extension cord is a chew toy, secure all wires and cords.

Unfortunately, even if you do routinely practice fire safety and prevention techniques with your pets, fires still happen, resulting in significant water and fire damage. When that happens, you can count on your local SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village to mitigate fire and water damage losses. 

Fire damage restoration can help restore your home to pre-fire condition, but it’s important to act fast to get fire remediation specialists out as quickly as possible to address the damage. If you find yourself dealing with fire damage, trust SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village, and our professional fire remediation services that we’re known for. With immediate emergency service 24/7, call us at 904-429-4457 and our trained fire technicians will help restore your home to preloss condition. 

Keep Your St. Augustine Home Fire-Free This Holiday Season!

11/12/2021 (Permalink)

While house fires can happen any time of year, the holiday season can introduce new hazards that can increase the risk of fire. From decorations to cooking mishaps, many dangers can arise as you prepare for the festivities.

From 2014-2018 the National Fire Protection Association reports that U.S fire departments were called to an average of 172,900 home structure fires due to cooking disasters, with the number of home fires caused by cooking peaking at an average of 470 fires each day. With the holiday season approaching, SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is here to offer some cooking fire safety tips to keep you, your family, and your home safe this Thanksgiving! 

1. Never leave food unattended on a range or cooktop. That’s where 61 percent of home cooking fires start.

2. Never cook on the stovetop when you are sleepy or intoxicated.

3. Use a timer to remind yourself that you are cooking.

4. Keep anything flammable – potholders, wooden utensils, towels, curtains, food wrapping – away from the stovetop.

5. If you must leave the kitchen for any period of time, turn off the stove.

We know that even with the utmost safety practices, that accidents can still happen. If your home sustains fire damage, the restoration experts at SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village can return your home to its former glory. In addition to handling fire damage and restoration, we also handle smoke and mold removal as well as water damage restoration. To learn more about these services or to schedule a free estimate, call our office at 904-429-4457! 

Not Only is it Spooky Season, it is Also Fire Season! Follow These Tips to Prevent Fires in Your St. Augustine Home this Halloween!

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/ St. Augustine Beach wishes you and your family a safe and fun-filled Halloween!

It's spooky season and Halloween is almost here, bringing ghosts and ghouls to your doorstep, allowing you to deck your house out in spooky decorations! While this is the perfect time to decorate your home, it's important to remember that 2 out of 5 Halloween fires occur because of improperly placed decorations.

The NFPA found that between 2014-2018 an average of 770 home structure fires began from Halloween decorations, resulting in 2 fatalities, 30 injuries, and over $11 million in property damage. The majority of these fires took place because these decorations were too close to a heat source. Use safe decoration practices to ensure that you have a safe, and fun Halloween season!

Candle with Care

According to the NFPA, more than 44% of fires occur because holiday decorations are too close to a heat source! Whether it's one in a jack-o'lantern or a fall pumpkin scent candle, blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed and keep candles at least 1ft away from anything flammable. Glow sticks or electric candles are a safer option to consider when lighting up your jack-o'lantern. 

Use Dried Decorations Sparingly

When it comes to decorations, fall and Halloween decorations are usually very dry- corn stocks, dried flowers, cornstalks, all of which are extremely flammable. Be sure to keep these and other decorations away from candles and other heat sources

Choosing Costumes 

Some costumes are made with nylon and plastics that could easily ignite if you pass too closely by a candle or flame, so when choosing a costume, you want to make sure you stay away from long trailing fabric. If the costume includes a mask, make sure that it does not interfere with vision and the ability to see your surroundings. 

Don't Block Doorways 

While you may be tempted to decorate doorframes using fake cobwebs and paper streamers, this can actually make it more difficult to exit the home if a fire does break out. Exits are NOT an appropriate place for decorations. Keep obstructive decorations to inner walls and out of hallways, windows, and doorways, leaving an open path to exit the home in the event of a fire.

At SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village we understand that even with the utmost planning and safe practices, accidents happen. That is why we are ready to respond to your emergency 24/7/365. If you have experienced a fire and are not sure what the next steps are, SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is here to help, we will walk you through the process and provide you with a free estimate. We will also work with your insurance company every step of the way. To schedule a free estimate or learn more about the services we provide, 904-429-4457! 

What Does Fire Damage Restoration Entail?

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Whether it started in a nearby brush or right on your stovetop, a fire can wreak havoc on your home. That is why it’s crucial to contact a fire restoration crew as soon as the damage is done. If you’re wondering how they repair properties, the guide below lists the steps of the restoration process.

5 Steps to the Fire Restoration Process

1. Inspection

The fire restoration crew will start by putting on safety gear so they can enter the site without inhaling smoke particles. Then, they’ll conduct a thorough inspection of the building, making a note of any fire, smoke, or water damage they encounter along the way.

2. Containment

To prevent the smoke particles from drifting throughout the property and causing further damage, such as discoloration, the fire restoration crew will block off the most damaged areas. This is also important because soot inhalation can cause respiratory issues. If the fire consumed the roof, they will cover the area with a tarp to protect the property from the elements.

3. Water Damage Restoration

If water was used by the property owners or firefighters to stop the fire from spreading, there may be water damage to address as well. The crew might have to rip out soggy carpets and remove wet wallpaper or insulation to prevent future mold growth. If mold has already begun to grow, they will execute remediation tactics to prevent it from spreading.

4. Fire Damage Restoration

This labor-intensive stage begins with soot removal on the walls and ceilings of the property. The crew has to be careful when removing the smoke damage so that the particles don’t become airborne and circulate throughout the indoor air supply. To remove particles already floating around, they may use an air scrubber. The crew will also work on restoring charred upholstery, window treatments, and mattresses.

5. Home Repair

Finally, the crew will wrap up the fire restoration process by addressing structural and aesthetic damage to the home. This might include reconstructing walls, frames, or support beams, replacing drywall or flooring, and repainting walls.

Homefires can be devastating both finically and emotionally, especially due to the fact that smoke and water damage from putting out the fire, often amplify the destruction to both the structure and the contents. At SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village, we are highly trained professionals that will help you recover from devastating fire & water damage if you do suffer a structure fire, but we believe that prevention is better than a cure. However, we know that accidents happen. That is why our team is ready to respond to your emergency 24/7/365!

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village specializes in water and fire damage clean-up and restoration services for both residential and commercial customers. For more information or to schedule a free estimate, call our office at 904-429-4457!

How To Prevent Fires While Cooking

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Cooking is the number one cause of house fires. Unsafe cooking can cause fire damage, which is what happened to this kitchen.

As Fire Prevention Week comes to an end, SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine wants to remind you to stay safe while cooking, which is the number one cause of house fires. Cooking fires can happen to anyone, but there are ways to avoid them that you can make part of your everyday cooking practices.  

First off, you should never leave the cooktop unattended while cooking - no matter what. If you must leave, either turn the stove top off or find someone to watch over the cooktop in your absence. 

As far as clothing goes, short, close-fitting, or rolled sleeves are best so that your clothes are out of the way and don’t catch anything that could potentially burn the fabric and start a fire. 

It is also extremely important to have an extinguisher nearby in case of any emergencies so that you can try to put the fire out. Remember to call 911 first for help because you never know how fast a fire can grow and get out of hand. The faster the response the better. 

Another tip that may not come to mind right away is to not store anything in your oven. It may seem like a convenient place to store things, like a meal you want out of the way, a desert, or maybe even cook books, but this is a terrible idea. These items are easily forgotten and when the oven is turned on again and preheating, these items can catch on fire. It is much better to be safe than sorry.

It is important that your cooking areas are kept clean of flammable materials like splattered grease, food wrappers, or oven mitts. When these items are in unpredictable and inconsistent places, they may end up too close to a burner and catch on fire. A cookbook may be placed on a burner that you thought was off or had cooled down but hadn’t and start a fire. Whether you believe the stovetop is on or off, it is good practice to not use it as a resting place for anything. 

Treat fires appropriately. This means that it is important to know what content is burning. If it is food burning, water is sufficient to put it out. However, if it is grease that is burning, water may only turn to steam and become a hazard. For that reason, grease fires should be smothered with a lid, not treated with water. Microwave fires should be responded to by turning the microwave off and waiting for the flames to die out completely. Opening the microwave door will only allow more oxygen to fuel the flame.  

How To Prevent Fires: Fire Prevention Week Tips

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Fire Prevention Week is the perfect time to put in practices that will help you avoid fire damage or the need for fire damage restoration.

It’s Fire Prevention Week! SERVPRO wants to help you prevent fires from happening in the first place with some quick tips. 

• Test your smoke alarms regularly. Most of the time this can be done by simply pressing the test button on the alarm. The volume at which it beats will help you determine whether or not you need to change the batteries; if the beep is weak and quiet, you should change it immediately. Neglecting to change the batteries of smoke alarms can cause tragedies. 
• Inspect all your heating sources & keep them clean. Heating sources that are unclean or not functioning correctly can trigger a fire as well. Air filters should be cleaned regularly and space heaters need to be positioned in danger-free zones. Food and crumbs must be kept away form burners, as well as dish towels, cookbooks, curtains, and oven mitts. 
• Don't leave your kitchen while cooking. A fire can start in a matter of seconds, so leaving something cooking on the stove or baking in the oven is not a good idea. If you must leave, either turn the stove or oven off or find someone who can watch your masterpiece in the meantime. In addition to this, do not store items inside the oven. They may become forgotten and cause a fire when started again. 
• Aside from cooking, it is important to maintain your dryer by cleaning out the lint trap every load and getting it checked yearly. Another place to check for lint and miscellaneous items is behind the dryer. Items can collect and heat up behind there and become a potential threat. 
• Make sure all the cords in your home are not frayed or chewed so as to not start an electrical fire. Make sure they are placed in areas where they are less likely to overheat, and avoid putting the cord underneath rugs or where the cord is snug between items. 
• Be safe with flammable items. Make sure you blow out your candles before leaving the house or going to bed, and only light them on hard, steady surfaces raised from the floor where they are less likely to be knocked over. Fireplaces are another key to keep a close watch on. The sparks that fly could start a fire, so never leave the room unattended in which the fireplace is lit. 
• Always have fire extinguishers close by in case of emergencies.

4th of July Firework Safety

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village wishes you and your family a fun and safe 4th of July!

The 4th of July, Independence day is a day usually used to spend with friends and family, celebrating with picnics and barbecues, and of course, fireworks. But unfortunately, this fun celebration also comes with some danger and safety risks. Did you know that the 4th of July is the holiday that has the most fire-related incidents? According to the NFPA, more fires are reported on Independence Day than on any other day of the year, with more than half of those due to fireworks. 

Many of the 4th of July fire-related accidents can be avoided if proper safety precautions are used. Follow the tips below to ensure that you and your family have a safe and fun celebration this Independence Day: 

• Check city and state laws for fireworks and avoid any illegal fireworks. 
  
  
• When using fireworks, avoid loose-fitting clothing, but be properly clothed including protective eyewear and shoes.
  
  
• Keep and hose and bucket of water close by to put out any stray flames. Hose down any fireworks that do not ignite and then let them sit for 15-20 minutes to ensure they are not delayed starters. After the required time has passed, soak them in the bucket of water for an additional 15-20 minutes before disposing of them. 
  
  
• Make sure that the area where you are lighting off fireworks is free of hazards like bushes, dry grass, trees, decorations, and any other fire-hazardous materials. 
  
  
• If you are consuming alcohol, it is crucial to not handle fireworks while under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol causes judgment impairment and could lead to a fire, other serious accidents.

Following this 4th of July firework safety tips will make it easier to ensure a safe, fun, and fire-free 4th of July for all. 

At SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village, we understand that even when following safety guideless, accidents still happen. That is why we are here to help our local community in emergency situations 24/7/356. If you suffer from a fire and are seeking help for water and fire damage restoration, SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is here to help. Call our office at 904-429-4457 for emergency services or to schedule a free estimate. 

We Tackle Restoration on Both Land and Sea!

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Land or sea, big or small, SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is Here to Help!

On Sunday we received a call that a boat docked in Camachee Cove over on Vilano Beach had suffered a fire. When our crew responded to assess the damage, they were greeted by The Captain of the boat and found that the fire had occurred in the bilge of a 69ft Sport Vison Spencer Yacht. 

Our crew went out early Monday morning to start the restoration process. The bilge of the yacht was covered in soot and smoke damage, causing the white interior to become pitch black. Since the bilge is such a tight area, space would only permit two technicians to work on the wipe down and restoration process. They worked hard and long into the night to complete the job and get the yacht ready to head back out to sea the next day. 

The results of the cleaning were incredible! Head over to our before and after gallery to check out the finished work!

Land or sea, big or small, SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is here to help with any fire and water damage restoration needs. Locally owned and operated, we have been serving the residents of St. Augustine and surrounding St. Johns County since 2015. Our crews ready to respond 24/7/365 to any emergency situation. Call your local St. Augustine SERVPRO today at 904-429-4457! 

How To Incorporate Pets Into a Fire Evacuation Plan

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

It’s crucial for families to create a fire evacuation plan that they can quickly put into action in the event of an emergency. This makes it easy to account for everyone—including your pets. While it may be necessary to consider services like fire restoration in the aftermath, you will find peace in knowing that every single member of the family is safe. The guide below discusses how to include your furry friend in the plan.

A Guide to Pets & Fire Plans

Pack an Emergency Food Bag

You won’t have time to pack everything that your pet needs during an actual fire, so it’s important to compile these items beforehand. Create a grab-and-go bag with a sufficient supply of food packaged in waterproof containers, along with multiple water bottles. Include bowls, doggy bags, litter, and paper towels. Don’t forget to include a spare collar with identification.

Create Some Form of Shelter

As you rush to get out of the house, you want to ensure that you grab everything you need quickly. In order to not forget anything, put your pet’s emergency bag in a crate for your dog or cat. If you have a larger dog, put a blanket inside the bag instead so that your furry friend can lay on it as necessary.

Bring Along Any Medications

If fire restoration is needed, you may not be able to get back into the home until it’s safe, which means you won’t have access to your pet’s vital medications. Make sure to pack a sufficient supply of backup medicine, plus any necessary instructions. If you have a dog, include a package of heartworm, tick, and flea preventatives.

Coping with the aftermath of a fire can be very difficult, which is why the caring and experienced team at SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is available to assist you every step of the way. Their comprehensive fire restoration services address everything from water damage to carpet cleaning. They’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Visit them online to find out about their restoration and emergency cleaning services, or call the St. Augustine, FL-based company at 904- 429-4457 to speak with a representative.

3 Steps to Take If You Experience a House Fire

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine is here to handle all your fire damage and reconstruction needs. Call 904-429-4457 to schedule a free estimate!

A home fire is an unexpected event that can turn your world upside down. However, fire restoration professionals can help you rebuild your property. There are a few essential steps that can quickly get you back into your home. Review the following tips to make the process easier as you recover.

How Should You Restore Your Home After Fire Damage?

1. Perform a Damage & Safety Assessment

Document all the damage to your home for your insurance carrier. They’ll use this information to determine what they’ll cover. However, leave the inspection to fire restoration professionals. Parts of the structure may be compromised or smoldering, and they’ll know how to move around safely. They’ll take pictures of the damage and formulate a plan to remove salvageable items and debris. 

2. Handle Damage Control

Have fire restoration professionals remove soot that could spread to untouched areas of the home. They’ll then clean any spilled water from the plumbing. This action will prevent mold growth, rotting wood framing, or rusting metal hardware. Standing water may also erode your home’s foundation, leading to widespread collapse, so they’ll dry it and cover exposed areas with moisture and vapor barriers.

3. Schedule Construction

Schedule reconstruction as soon as the debris is cleared. SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village is your one stop shop for all your restoration and reconstruction needs. Our reconstruction professionals will seal any cracks in the foundation and reinforce the wood structure with more lumber. Once they’re confident that this frame will support the home, they’ll hang new drywall, repair roofing, and lay new flooring. Finally, plumbing, electrical, and refinishing services will restore your home to its original condition so that you and your family can move in.

If you’re looking for fire restoration professionals, contact SERVPRO of St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, S. Nocatee and World Golf Village in St. Augustine, FL. You can count on this reliable company when the unthinkable happens. They handle water extraction and mold remediation, biohazard cleanup, and storm damage restoration. Learn more about their services on website, or call 904 429-4457 to ask any questions.

Protect what's important during an active fire!

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Evacuation plans are critical, we can help you create a digitally formatted all-in-one file, our ERP or Emergency Ready Profile!

How Can I Protect My Family in the Event of a Fire?

1. Include Everyone in the Planning Process

Schedule a family meeting for the entire household, even small kids. Go over exits points, responsibilities—such as who will grab emergency kits—and alternatives in case your original plan falls through. Encourage your family to ask questions and make recommendations of their own. Once you’ve finalized a plan, print several copies and hand them out to each family member. Additionally, tape a copy in common areas, such as the kitchen and living room, where it’s highly visible by all. 

2. Establish an Evacuation Route

There should be at least two established exits out of the home. Once outside, you and your family should follow the same route to a meeting place. The place you meet at should be in close proximity to your home, but not so close that you’re at risk of being injured by the fire. Make sure everyone knows this meeting place and how to get there. 

3. Make Sure Emergency Numbers Are Accessible

If your kids have mobile devices, emergency numbers should be stored. Older kids should also be taught to memorize important numbers, including the fire department or a trusted neighbor or family member’s cellphone digits. 

4. Practice Evacuating

In order for your plan to work, it’s essential to practice it at least a few times a year to make sure your family knows it well. Schedule practice sessions once every three or four months to coincide with testing your home’s fire alarms. This way, your children will know exactly how to take action and what to do in case a fire breaks out. 

The tips above will help keep you and your family safe during a fire. The team at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach provides 24/7 fire restoration services using specialized techniques for smoke and odor removal, water damage, and any other hazards associated with a house fire. Visit them online for a complete breakdown of their fire restoration process and call (904) 429-4457 to discuss your fire plan.

Do's & Don'ts After Fire Damage to Your House

1/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine is Here To Help 24/7, 365 days a year. Call 904-429-4457 for a free estimate!

A house fire is an unbelievable experience. Although you’ll feel relieved to be safe, you may be overwhelmed by the many tasks ahead. A fire restoration specialist can help address damage to your home. Here are some other helpful steps to take moving forward. 

Do:

Document the damage. 

The more information you provide your insurer, the better. When it’s safe to do so, walk around your home and take pictures of all damaged items and fixtures. Creating an inventory of damaged personal belongings is also recommended. Write down a description of the item, how old it is, and estimate the replacement cost. Include any receipts or bills of sale.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. 

Once you have all the essential information, report the damage to your insurer. Most insurance companies require a claim within a certain period of time. If you’re not sure how long you have, check your policy documents for more information.

Don’t:

Attempt to clean up the home alone. 

While it may be tempting to clean up, doing so can greatly endanger your health. Fire restoration professionals will come prepared with the necessary protective equipment to perform the task safely. There is also a risk of instability and structural damage, and you should get permission from a contractor before attempting to do work within the home.

Throw away damaged belongings before the adjuster arrives.

An insurance adjuster must evaluate badly damaged items. This helps determine the replacement value of said items, which will go towards the fund you receive from your insurer. 

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach provides 24/7 assistance to help salvage your home after a fire. These professionals can clean all damaged areas, from upholstery to carpeting. They also offer water removal and restoration if the home sustained damage while the fire was being extinguished. Schedule an appointment with this locally-owned and -operated fire restoration company by calling 904-429-4457. You can also learn more about their services online. 

Different types of Fire Damage, Different Ways SERVPRO can restore / clean

12/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach is your local fire / smoke / soot damage restoration and cleanup professionals! 904 429 4457

Fire Damage Restoration includes the removal of soot residues from various surfaces and materials. Not all soot is the same, meaning there are many various techniques and ways to restore / clean the different types. 

Let's take a moment to consider the elements of a fire. When combustion takes place, the material that is on fire is being broken down and combining with oxygen as heat from the flame is given off. Fires that give off smoke produce smoke-filled residues and soot. 

Smoke is released into the air as burning materials decompose, in the form of suspended particles, gases, and aerosols. 

Gases are invisible components of smoke. Gases from a fire can be extremely dangerous if inhaled, such as sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide. This is why its so important to vacate the property as soon as possible to a safe area far away from the fire. 

In addition, smoke also consists of small particles of matter and aerosols. These particles within smoke are odor absorbing, which is what gives soot it's smell.

Smoke particles from an "incomplete" combustion can contain carcinogenics. If you ever near an active fire, get low to the ground to avoid inhaling the rising smoke-filled air. 

Once smoke settles on surfaces as a residue, it is often referred to as "soot." 

Soot residues are all different and can contain different types of acids since chlorides and sulfides in smoke mix with the humidity in the air or with other forms of moisture that may be present to form acids. 

Acidic soot can result in discoloration and corrosion if they remain on materials for too long. 

As mentioned, not all smoke residues are the same. The 4 most common types of soot are;

Dry smoke residues, Wet smoke residues, Protein smoke residues and Fuel smoke residues. Different cleaning and restoration methods may be applied to remove and restore different types of residues. 

Cleaning dry smoke residues

Dry smoke residues are generally the "easiest" of the 4 most common residues to clean, thanks to it carrying only few aerosols and deposits of small, dry particles onto surfaces. Dry smoke residues don't stain surfaces as quickly or as deeply as wet smoke residues. 

Cleaning wet smoke residues

Wet Smoke residues are much more difficult to remove than dry smoke residue. Wet smoke typically contains a high proportion of aerosols such as varnishes, solvents and other liquid components. Wet smoke residues seep deeper into surfaces than dry smoke residue does. Within minutes; hot, oily residues will discolor plastic materials. 

Protein Residues

Kitchen fires often contain the burning of meat, poultry, etc. resulting in protein residues. Protein residues can occur in many different colors or forms. Protein residues can be yellow in color, amber, or they can be almost impossible to see! 

Fuel Oil Soot

Furnace puff-backs, common in the North East, occur when an oil burner malfunctions and ignites suddenly. Soot from puff-backs consist of dust particles from the ductwork and fuel oil that didn't properly burn. 

During a fire, soot and smoke particles settle on and adhere to surfaces. Restoration means the removal and cleaning of these soot residues. Rely on your local professionals at SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach to provide you with the best fire damage restoration service available. Available 24/7/365 at (904) 429-4457

3 Tips to Prevent Pet-Related Fire Damage

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / SAB is here to help 24/7 No job is too big or too small! (904) 429-4457

Pets love to explore, so think twice any time there’s an open flame in your home. Their curiosity can sometimes lead to accidents and the need for fire restoration services. Whether you’re cooking breakfast or lighting candles, take preventive steps to ensure you and your pet stay safe.

How to Prevent Pet-Related Fires

1. Use Flameless Candles When Possible

A cat or dog may easily tip over a lit candle and start a fire. Always purchase battery-powered, flameless options. Place them in jack-o’-lanterns on Halloween, buy an electric menorah for Hanukkah, or purchase scented options for your home. You’ll never have to worry about forgetting to blow out the flame before you go to bed.

2. Pet-Proof the Stove

Kitchens are the leading area for home fires, and many begin on the stove. Whether you have a gas or electric stove, never leave it unattended while using it. Pets may jump and knock a flammable item onto the burner or spill boiling water on themselves. Either remove the stove knobs when they aren’t in use or attach child-proof covers. These keep your pet from accidentally activating the burners and causing a fire.

3. Watch Electrical Wires

Electrical wires may look like a chew toy to pets. They can shock themselves when they break through the casing, and a spark could ignite flammable materials. String decorative lights out of reach, and cover floor cables with area rugs or furniture.

If you notice your pet inspecting electrical plugs or power strips, spray them with a no-chew spray. These bitter-tasting coatings will keep pets from biting twice. However, if your pet does cause any fire-related damage, immediately contact fire restoration services. 

Turn to SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach for all your fire restoration needs. This Florida company will work quickly to restore your home. They also serve commercial clients and handle emergency cleaning services, water damage, and mold remediation. Learn more on their website or call (904) 429-4457 to speak with a representative.

What does Fire Restoration Entail?

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage? Call the Fire, Smoke and Soot Restoration and Clean-up professionals at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine 904-429-4457!

Whether it started in a nearby brush or right on your stovetop, a fire can wreak havoc on your home. That is why it is crucial to contact a fire restoration crew as soon as the damage is done. If you are wondering what the repair process looks like, the guide below lists the steps of the restoration process. 

5 Steps to the Fire Restoration Process 

1. Inspection
The fire restoration crew will start by putting on safety gear so they can enter the site without inhaling smoke particles. They then will conduct a thorough inspection of the building and make note of any fire, smoke, or water damage they encounter. 

2. Containment 
To prevent the smoke particles from drifting throughout the property and causing further damage, like discoloration, the fire restoration crew will block off the most damaged areas. This is also important because soot inhalation can cause health effects. If the fire consumed the roof, they will cover the area with a tarp to protect the property for the elements. 

3. Water Damage Restoration
If water was used by the property owners or firefighters to stop the fire from spreading, there may be water damage to address as well. The crew might have to rip out soggy carpets, and remove any wet wallpaper or insulation to prevent future mold growth. If mold has already started to grow, they will execute remediation tactics to prevent the mold from spreading. 

4. Fire Damage Restoration 
This labor-intensive stage begins with soot removal from the walls and ceilings of the property. When handling the smoke damage, the crew has to be careful that particles do not become airborne and circulate throughout the indoor air supply. To remove particles already floating around, they may use an air scrubbers. The crew will then also work on restoring charred upholstery, windows treatments, and mattresses. 

5. Home Repair
Finally, the crew will begin to wrap up the fire restoration process by addressing structural and aesthetic damage to the home. This may include reconstructing walls, frames or support beams, replacing drywall or flooring, and repainting walls. 

If your home has been damages by a fire, turn to SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/ St. Augustine Beach for help. The crews help families affected by flooding, fires and storms with remediation and restoration services. They also offer emergency cleaning and water extraction services. To schedule an appointment, call 904-429-4457 or visit the website for more information about the services offered.

The Do's And Don'ts of Fire Damage Repair

12/6/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage? Call the experts, SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach, at 904-429-4457

A fire in your home can be devastating. When a fire first takes place, its important to ensure the safety of your family by relocating to a safe place. After your family is safe, you can begin to think about how you are going to get your home back in order.

Fire damage repair professionals will help assess your home. It is natural to feel helpless in this situation, but for your safety follow the do's and don'ts below.

Do: 

Take pictures of the damage
Having a visual record of the fire damage will come in handy when you file your insurance claim. Instead of trying to remember how everything looked after the fire, you will be able to refer back to the pictures that you took. 

Call your insurance agent
Insurance claims can take months or even years to fully process, which means you will want to get the process started as soon as possible. The faster you know what the course of action is, the faster you can contact fire damage professionals to restore your home. 

Wear gloves if you must enter the home
If you need to enter the home to gather your home's deed, insurance documents or other important paperwork, be sure to wear gloves. The soot on fabrics and ashes from the items can linger on your hands and lead to irritation if you touch your eyes, nose or mouth before having the chance to wash your hands. 

Don't: 

Enter Your home until it is safe 
Your home may appear to be structurally sound, but there is no guarantee that damage has not been done somewhere that you cannot see. Do not enter the home until it has been inspected and deemed safe by fire damage professionals. 

Try to clean the walls and floors yourself
Trying to clean soot off your walls and off of your carpets is more complicated than everyday cleaning supplies can handle. 

Turn on any electronics 
The hardware and wires of your computers, TVs, phones and other electronics may have suffered damage in the fire. The home's electrical system may be compromised as well. For your safety, consult with an electrician before turning on any electronics or light switches. 

If your home has sustained severe fire damage, the team at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/ St. Augustine Beach will work hard to restore your home and belongings. The fire damage repair teams help clients throughout St. Augustine, FL, regain their homes and peace of mind. In addition to fire restoration, SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach also provides water and storm damage services and mold remediation. Visit the website and browse all the offerings, or call 904-429-4457 to request help.

Fire Safety Tips for the Holidays

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

While house fires can happen any time of year, the holiday season can introduce new hazards that can increase the risk of fire. From decorations to cooking mishaps, many dangers can arise as you prepare for the festivities. Although fire damage can often be repaired when house fires are controlled, here are a few preventative measures to take during the holidays.

Be Cautious in the Kitchen

According to the NFPA, cooking is the main cause of home fires and injuries, with Thanksgiving being the peak day for cooking-related fire emergencies. 

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food
• Check food regularly while cooking, use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on
• Keep anything flammable like potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels away from the stove, oven, or other appliances that generate heat. 

Use Candles Safely

Fires caused by candles peak in December. While these decorations can add ambiance and a pleasant aroma to your home, they also present serious fire risks.

• Keep burning candles in a safe space where pets and children can’t knock them over.
• Set a timer on your phone to remember when to blow them out.
• Battery-operated flameless candles are safer alternatives that still produce a warm, atmospheric glow.

Follow Instructions With Lights & Decorations

Whether you’re stringing lights inside or outside your home, follow instructions carefully.

• Avoid stringing more than three strands together at once so you don't overwhelm your outlet and cause electrical fires.
• only use outdoor lights outside your home, as these withstand the elements better than lights designed for indoor use.

You can also prevent fire damage by practicing tree safety. While Christmas tree fires are rare, minimize the risk by keeping your tree watered and disposing of it promptly after the holidays.

If your home sustains fire damage, call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach at 904-429-4457 and we will make it "Like it never even happened." 

3 ways to avoid Halloween fire hazards

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach is Here to Help this holiday season! We can be reached at (904) 429-4457 24/7 365 days a year!

Halloween is almost here, bringing ghosts and ghouls to your doorstep, and allowing you to deck your house out in spooky decorations. While this is the perfect time to decorate your home, it’s important to use safe decoration practices to prevent the need for fire restoration services. Since two out of five Halloween fires occur because of improperly placed decorations, it’s best to ensure you avoid fire restoration by utilizing the following simple tips.

How to Prevent Halloween Fires

1. Skip Open Flames

Whether you’ve placed candles in pumpkins or paper-bag lanterns, open flames pose a significant risk. Unsupervised lit candles can easily be accidentally knocked over. The flames can spread fast, particularly if they’re near flammable items.

Instead, light up your yard and decorations the safe way using alternative methods, such as glow sticks or battery-operated candles. Always teach young trick-or-treaters to be cognizant of any open flames when collecting candy by encouraging them to stay away from the flames.

2. Use Dried Decorations Sparingly

While open flames pose a high threat, there are many other heat sources that can also start fires, particularly if they are surrounded by dried out decorations. Popular fall items like dried cornstalks, hay, flowers, and crepe paper are flammable and can catch fire when placed too closely to high-wattage light bulbs or portable heaters.

Make sure if you use any dried Halloween decorations that they are placed away from any heat source and use them sparingly to prevent accidents.

3. Don’t Block Doorways

Halloween fires can also occur in your home if you decorate the interior. While you may be tempted to decorate doorframes using fake cobwebs and paper streamers, this can actually make it more difficult to exit the home if a fire does break out.

Keep obstructive decorations to inner walls and out of hallways, windows, and doorways, leaving an open path to exit the home in the event of a fire.

If you’ve experienced the damage fires can cause and want a reliable professional to help you with the fire restoration process, contact SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach in St. Johns County, FL. In addition to fire repair services, this team also offers water extraction, storm damage restoration, and emergency cleaning. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (904) 429-4457.

3 Fire Safety Tips for The Office!

9/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach is here to help our communities return properties to preloss condition. (904) 429-4457!

Every office building has some degree of fire risk, no matter what type of business occupies the space or the size of the staff. Taking some preventive fire safety measures in your office will protect your employees and your business’s assets. These precautions can help save lives and dramatically reduce the amount of fire restoration and smoke and soot removal and cleanup that is required after an emergency.

How to Practice Fire Safety in the Office

1. Install Fire Extinguishers

Fire codes require businesses to install fire extinguishers in their office buildings. Different industries and locations have different guidelines, so check the regulations for your business to ensure you are following these standards.

Offices should generally be equipped with water and foam extinguishers that are stored no more than 75 feet apart. Kitchens should have a Class K rated extinguisher. Extinguishers should be easily visible, with the top no more than 5 feet from the ground.

2. Educate Your Team

Touch base with your staff every six months about fire prevention and safety. For example, highlight the dangers of smoking close to the building or discarding still-lit cigarette butts into flammable materials such as trash bins or dry leaves. Show your employees the safe routes out of the building, the locations of pull alarms, and how to use the extinguishers.

3. Use Fireproof Storage

If the unthinkable does happen and a fire burns your building to the ground, you don’t want all of your business’s files and data to be lost. Install fireproof safes and filing cabinets to protect important files. When possible, store digital information securely in the cloud or on off-site servers. Fire restoration can restore your building, but it is this preventive measure that will protect your data.

If disaster does occur, the fire restoration team at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach is here to help. This business in St. Augustine, FL, has trained technicians and state-of-the-art equipment for efficient fire damage repair. They will handle every aspect of your restoration, from water extraction to adding the finishing touches to your restored building. Learn more online or by calling (904) 429-4457.

How to prepare a fire escape plan for your office

8/22/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine is here to help with water damage, fire damage, fire restoration, emergency cleaning services! 904 429-4457

It’s important for every office to have their own customized fire escape plan. Having a clear-cut process in place will help protect employees in the event that flames spread. From evacuating to dialing 9-1-1, a strong plan will help reduce the amount of fire restoration work you’ll need in the aftermath. Here’s a guide to what a thorough plan should involve. 

3 Elements of a Strong Fire Escape Plan for an Office

1. Designate Roles

The first step is to assign different roles in the fire response plan. First, name a person who is going to be in charge of overseeing the effort. Then, appoint different assistants to help that individual.

There should be someone to alert the fire department (plus a fire restoration crew), someone to sound the alarm system, and others to direct employees out of the building. When everyone knows their role, the evacuation will go much smoother. 

2. Label Routes

Next, it’s crucial to establish the fastest and safest routes out of the building. It’s important to designate various options, since an exit plan may vary depending on where the fire begins.

In addition to creating maps that show these routes and making those maps available throughout the office, they should be clearly labeled along walls so employees can still find their way during a fire escape. 

3. Rehearse

Lastly, offices must conduct regular fire drills. That is the best way to test out the effectiveness of your current system. It lets officers rehearse their roles and gives the rest of the employees practice for how to get out safely. You can even time the responsiveness of your office and set goals for being able to leave faster each time. 

If your office building experiences any trouble with fire, reach out to a top fire restoration company like SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach in St. Johns County, FL. These professionals ensure that all traces of a fire are completely removed, from soot to damaged walls and furniture. They remove pollutants from upholstery and replace carpets to restore the space. To set up an appointment, call (904) 429-4457 or visit their website to learn more about their services. 

Fire, Smoke & Soot Damage Restoration Pros!! (904) 429-4457

8/2/2020 (Permalink)

Fire, smoke/soot Damage? Call the PROs at SERVPRO in St Augustine! (904) 429-4457

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach understands that using the right equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time is of the essence, our restoration and cleanup technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach answers your call with urgency, exceptional equipment, and trained, uniformed personnel. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation, but perhaps more important, these water damage and fire damage professionals thoroughly understand how to dry a structure after the fire department uses high pressure water to extinguish the fire, and how to restore fire, soot and smoke damaged items. 

For any property damage restoration / reconstruction needs; Call your local experts at SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach at (904) 429-4457! 

We are on standby 24/7 ready to help make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO in St Augustine, FL. 

Fire, smoke and soot damage restoration services

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach is your local disaster recovery team for fire, water, and mold damage!! (904) 429-4457

Our number one goal is returning damaged areas and items to preloss condition, making it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach is dedicated to restoring both the property and the lives of the customers being helped. When fire damage strikes, we strike back!! St Johns fire damage and st johns fire restoration services should be left to the PRO's at SERVPRO. 

Structural Cleaning - After a smoke or fire damage, ceilings, walls, woodwork, carpeting and floors will often need a thorough cleaning. Your local SERVPRO professionals will pretest to determine the extent of damage, and then use the specific equipment and cleaning products needed to clean and protect the different types of surfaces found in your structure. Depending on the amount of soot, your local SERVPRO may even be able to help reduce the cost of recovery by cleaning lighter soot deposits found on some surfaces, eliminating the expense incurred with repainting or refinishing. In other cases, SERVPRO will clean to "prepare for painting". This process deodorizes and ensures the new paint will adhere properly to the surface.

Contents Cleaning - All of the restorable contents in affected areas will be professionally cleaned and deodorized. This includes area rugs, furniture, draperies and upholstery. SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine beach professionals begin by carefully inspecting and testing all fabrics in the structure to determine which cleaning methods are most appropriate. We can provide wet or dry cleaning services. Additionally, all the other restorable contents will be cleaned and deodorized to preloss condition. This includes electronics, art, wood furniture, kitchen items, clothing, bedding, and much more. Finally, we provide an inventory list of all "to be claimed" items if requested.

Deodorization - SERVPRO professionals provide specialized services that rid your home or place of business of offensive odors left by fire or smoke damage. SERVPRO professionals do not merely cover up lingering odors with a fragrance, they seek out the sources of the odor and remove them.

Call us today if you have any questions or if you need to schedule a free estimate! (904) 429-4457

We also provide water damage restoration and emergency water removal, we provide mold removal and remediation, and biohazard cleanup services!

Emergency Fire Damage Process Overview

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

CALL (904) 429-4457 FOR ANY FIRE, SMOKE and SOOT DAMAGE RESTORATION NEEDS!!

At SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach, we follow corporate policies around responding as quickly as possible. 

One Hour: Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO professional will contact you to arrange for service. 

Four Hours: Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO franchise professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage. 

Detailed Explanation: A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO Franchise professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome. 

Pretesting: A SERVPRO professional will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

Eight Hours: Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope of work will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

Cleaning, Restoration & Deodorization: SERVPRO Franchise professional's will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has occurred. We will use state-of-the-art equipment and restoration techniques to ensure your property is taken care of right the first time. 

Final Walk-through: After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction. 

Call SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach at (904) 429-4457 

Smoke and Soot damage restoration

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Look at that difference! Fire, smoke or soot damage? Call (904) 429-4457!!

We received a call from an RV owner who's RV's ventilation system was left on while he was away, and to his surprise there was a land clearing fire very close by. When he opened the door to enter his RV, everything was covered in smoke residue. He kept his calm, because he knew clean was just a call away. He immediately called us at SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach to come take care of his headache. 

He said he had used a SERVPRO before in his hometown, and he said "I knew if SERVPRO couldn't fix it, no one can!" 

A few short hours later, his RV was back to normal! "Like it never even happened." 

(904) 429-4457 Call today to schedule a free estimate!

4 Fire Prevention Tips

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Fire damage? Call the experts, SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach, at (904) 429-4457!!

Your home is your sanctuary. To keep it and your family safe, it’s essential for everyone in the house to understand the basics of fire safety. Each year, thousands of house fires occur across the U.S., many of which cause devastating damage and serious injuries or fatalities. Fortunately, fire restoration can repair much of the damage, especially if a blaze is stopped quickly. There are also precautions you can take to reduce the risk of a fire in the first place.

A Guide to Fire Prevention & Safety

1. Make a Fire Safety Plan

Establish a fire safety plan that can get everyone out of the house in two minutes or less. Have multiple escape routes, including a means to exit the top floors if the stairs are impassable. Instruct family members on how to remove window screens and open locks. Designate a meeting place away far away from the house where everyone can assemble.

Also, ensure everyone knows how to behave in a fire. Instruct everyone to get as low to the ground as possible and crawl to the nearest exit, checking that the doorknobs cool to the touch before opening it. If clothing is on fire, teach family members to stop, drop, and roll.

2. Have Safety Equipment

Fire extinguishers should be accessible to everyone, including older children who may be left alone at times. Teach them how to use the device, which typically involves pulling a pin, aiming the nozzle at the base of the fire, squeezing the trigger, and spraying in a side-to-side motion.

All homes should have at least one fire extinguisher, though one for each story of the house is better. Every house should also have multiple smoke alarms, particularly in bedrooms and the kitchen. Ensure the devices have charged batteries; check and replace these as needed.

3. Be Careful With Flammable Items

Ensure flammable items, such as gasoline, oil, and aerosol containers, are kept far away from items that get hot or create sparks. Gas should be kept in an airtight container, preferably outside of the house. Any flammable fabrics should also be kept at least three feet away from space heaters and furnaces or fireplaces.

4. Don’t Leave Lighted Devices Unattended

Never leave your cooking unattended and turn off the kitchen stove and oven when not in use. If you have a fireplace, have it serviced at least once a year to ensure smoke is properly ventilated away from the home. Never leave a lighted fire unattended.

If you have experienced a house fire, turn to the fire restoration specialists at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach. These professionals have helped hundreds of residents and businesses throughout the Greater St. Augustine, FL, area, providing a range of services including fire restoration, water extraction, and mold remediation, as well as storm damage restoration. Call (904) 429-4457 to schedule fire restoration services, or visit their website to learn more about how they can help you recover from an emergency situation.

Fire Safety tips for the holidays

11/22/2019 (Permalink)

While house fires can happen any time of year, the holiday season can introduce new hazards that can increase the risk of fire. From decorations to cooking mishaps, many dangers can arise as you prepare for the festivities. Although fire damage can often be repaired when house fires are controlled, here are a few preventative measures to take during the holidays.

3 Holiday Safety Practices to Prevent Fire Damage

1. Be Cautious in the Kitchen

Cooking-related incidents are the leading cause of winter house fires. Holiday turkeys, hams, and other roasts often require the oven to be on for long periods of time, so be sure to check on your food frequently. Keep flammable items like food packages, papers, and oils far away from the stove top. Only use pressure cookers, deep fryers, and other kitchen appliances according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Use Candles Safely

Fires caused by candles peak in December. While these decorations can add ambiance and a pleasant aroma to your home, they also present serious fire risks. Keep burning candles in a safe space where pets and children can’t knock them over. Set a timer on your phone to remember when to blow them out. Battery-operated flameless candles are safer alternatives that still produce a warm, atmospheric glow.

3. Follow Instructions With Lights & Decorations

Whether you’re stringing lights inside or outside your home, follow instructions carefully. In many cases, you should avoid stringing more than three strands together at once, as any more could overwhelm your outlet and cause electrical fires. Additionally, only use outdoor lights outside your home, as these withstand the elements better than lights designed for indoor use. You can also prevent fire damage by practicing tree safety. While Christmas tree fires are rare, you can minimize the risk by keeping yours watered and disposing of it promptly after the holidays.

If your home sustains fire damage, the restoration experts at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach can return your home to its former glory. In addition to handling fire damage, their team also excels in smoke and mold removal, as well as water damage restoration. Find out more about their approach online or call (904) 429-4457 to speak with a team member.

We're Here For Our Community During Fire Season

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

Fire season has arrived!    

Fire and smoke damage can quickly become very problematic in our homes, businesses and even to our health. Fire damage causes tremendous casualties to properties; we all know how fast an engulfed home can cause major issues. An issue that can be overwhelming and an issue that should be handled by professionals. 

Something else we want to remind you of this fire season, is how damaging the smoke from fire is. Even light smoke damage can cause short outs in circuits. Circuits that are inside your breaker panels, in your TVs, your smartphones, and even your appliances like microwaves. Smoke is very corrosive and reactive and can lead to pre-mature failure in circuits. 

All smoke contains carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and particulate matter (PM or “soot”.) When smoke is inhaled, even for a short period of time, it can cause health effects.

Most people don’t realize just how detrimental fire damage can be, and that is why you should seek professionals to determine how much damage has been done and how to address it. SERVPRO can quickly be on site to thoroughly inspect the property for all issues that stem from fire and smoke damage such as: soot, thermal heating, hazardous chemical material, and even water damage that was used to put the fire out.  

Here at SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine / St Augustine Beach we want to ensure you and our community that if you or someone you know experiences any sort of fire damage, our team is here for you and will work with you to the best of our abilities to make sure we satisfy everything you may need. This fire season;, rely on SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/ St. Augustine Beach. Our service is quick, professional, and when we leave, the damage will look "Like it never even happened." You can contact us at 904-429-4457!

3 Important Steps to follow after a Home Fire

9/19/2019 (Permalink)

Never underestimate the damage level of any fire. Check every area affected.

A house fire can completely interrupt your family’s lives. Whether the fire erupted in a single room or affected several bedrooms, it’s vital to take safety precautions before entering the home. These will yield the best results for fire restoration and ensure no one is injured in the process.

1. Schedule an Inspection

No matter how safe your home may seem, schedule an inspection first. Fire restoration professionals will check that no live electrical components create a shock or other fire risk and will test gas piping for leaks. They’ll also look at structural damage to make sure the home is safe to enter. This crucial step will reduce the potential for injuries and also kickstart the recovery process.

2. Don’t Start Fire Restoration On Your Own

As tempting as it is to begin cleaning up, wait for the professionals. You can open windows, but avoid plugging in box fans or turning ceiling fans on. These may spark electrical problems or worsen the smoke smell and ash cover. Ideally, you shouldn’t use the electricity at all until an electrician has made necessary repairs. The best course of action is to stay offsite until fire damage repair begins.

3. Stay Off Furniture

If you start clearing debris with professionals, stay off of furniture. Most pieces are salvageable if ash and soot don’t sink into the fibers. Sitting on a sofa or bed may press them in and embed a permanent ash smell. Professional fire restoration companies have the proper equipment that deep clean sofas, mattresses, chairs, and other furniture that is lined with fabric. 

If you need fire restoration services in the St. Augustine, FL, area, SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach will work hard to fulfill your needs. They know how life-changing damage to a home is and are committed to helping families recover. From biohazard cleanup and water extraction to emergency cleaning services, they’ll take every measure to make your home livable again. Call (904) 429-4457 to speak with a representative and visit their website to explore their full scope of services

Fire Damage Part Two... St. Johns Restaurant

5/23/2019 (Permalink)

After the fire department leaves and the camera's go away, we come out to assist with the process of getting back to business. This restaurant was working through the process of getting back to business.

Steps Involved

Part 1 The first step is to do a walk through and find out what the customer wants done so we can give an accurate quote.

Part 2-The next step is to start the cleaning process.  During a clean up some of our services show immediate results. 

Before and After

On the other hand, other processes can take a couple hours to see the designated ending. The video below is an example of this type of processes. It shows an example of the time we put into making sure the job is done right.  We make sure to work efficiently and thoroughly to get the job done right the first time.

If you have any questions about the process, or if you would like to inquire about our services, please call us 24/7 at 904-429-4457.

Visit us online for more information.

House Fire in St. Augustine

5/14/2019 (Permalink)

Here is a photo from a fire site in St. Augustine. The bathroom suffered from fire damage and SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach were called out to put together a complete fire damage remediation and reconstruction estimate. 

Here at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach we specialize in full service water damage, fire damage, and mold damage restoration. 

We offer a wide range of services – from cleaning, to remediation and on to reconstruction – SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach is the vendor of choice for many local residents and businesses alike.

At SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach we want to make you another happy customer!!

Call SERVPRO in St. Augustine for all restoration needs, big or small! 904-429-4457 

Visit our website for more information.

A day in the life of SERVPRO Production Manager

5/10/2019 (Permalink)

A day in the life part II!!!

Second installment of our "A day in the life series". In this Video SERVPRO's St. Augustine location is attempting to showcase what a day in the life of a Production Manager at a SERVPRO location may be like.

During this particular day following tasks were completed - visited the Vapor shop fire project to ensure ceiling install is as scheduled, performed a big smoke and fire damage estimate, completed a mold remediation estimate and a quick mold test, visited Camachee Island fire and smoke damage restoration site, there were some adjuster meetings as well…

They came to the right place - no one does/knows fire damage like we do  at SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine/St. Augustine Beach.

As you would come to expect from us, you will receive:

Lower pricing,

     Faster and Friendlier Services.....

        From Cleaning,

            To Remediation, 

               On to Reconstruction.

Of course all this is delivered with the upmost quality and SERVPRO expertise and guarantee. We are here in  St. Johns County - truly faster to any size disaster!  

Call SERVPRO in St. Augustine for all restoration needs, big or small! 904-429-4457 

Visit our website for more information.

SERVPRO services Sonic after the fire

4/26/2019 (Permalink)

It all started here

SERVPRO was called out when when a local restaurant in St. Augustine suffered from a grease fire. They called on SERVPRO in St. Augustine to save the day. This is a video of the damage we found when we went in. This is a three part series. Part one shows you what the building looked like after the fire went through the fast food restaurant.
SERVPRO in St Augustine making you another happy customer!!

Youtube Video Part 1

We offer a wide range of serviced – from cleaning, to remediation and on to reconstruction – SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach is the vendor of choice for many local residents and businesses alike.

We offer a wide range of services – from cleaning, to remediation and on to reconstruction – SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach is the vendor of choice for many local residents and businesses alike.

Visit our website for more information.

Fire Damage.... Greater St. Augustine.. St. Agustine Beach... Reconstruction.... Restoration

4/8/2019 (Permalink)

Fire damaged St Augustine residence - no one was injured in the fire

This Older home had a faulty electrical system which erupted into a deadly fire.

Pictures from this particular job are difficult to look at.... devastation.

No one was injured in this St. Augustine home. We completed demolition and followed up with a full restoration. The entire project took months to complete. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach offers full service restoration.

No need to shop around for separate vendors! Fire restoration made easy by SERVPRO's St Augustine location. 

We are happy to assist our community during times of need. 

If you have questions about fire, water, mold, or biohazard, damage, we are here for you.

call us today at 904-429-4457 to see how we can help save you time and money!

Visit our website for more information.

A Small fire Caused a lot of Damage in Jacksonville/ Mandarin Area - SERVPRO in St. Augustine

4/4/2019 (Permalink)

Boris and Hulk working together - POD is ready to accept cleaned items. SERVPRO in St Augustine has the logistics in place to run remote jobs

We are glad to help when our help is needed!

When Jacksonville/Mandarin area needs our help after a fire we are here to help. While Jacksonville may not be our core market and we still would like to focus on assisting Old City residents in need, we have the infrastructure in place to take on multiple big jobs. With a first ever location here in the heart of St Augustine - we are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO in St Augustine covers the entire St Johns County, including Ponte Vedra and has the technological edge to run remote jobs (in Jacksonville).  We are here to help! Free estimates. 

Call SERVPRO in St. Augustine for all restoration needs, big or small! 904-429-4457 

Visit our website for more information.

Fires Interrupt Business SERVPRO Helps Get Business Going Again

4/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach offers full service restoration in St. Augustine. For estimates - 904-429-4457.

A Local Vapor shop was shutdown for business for a few weeks while SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach worked to restore the soot damage that a fire had caused. Local heroes are trusted again with getting one of the local business back from fire damage. This is a second large commercial project SERVPRO takes on in as many months in St. Augustine. It is a great honor to take part in restoring one of our own and getting them back on track as soon as possible!

From Fire and Water Damage to Cleaning, SERVPRO's of St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach location is the answer!!! 904-429-4457.

If you have questions about fire damage, call us today at 904-429-4457 to see how we can help get your business up and running after disaster strikes.

Thank you for trusting SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach.

Visit our website for more information.

Fire Safety in St Augustine and the Greater St Augustine area, including Ponte Vendra.

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

In the picture - St Augustine home recently damaged by fire and soot. You can clearly see where the shoes were lined up in the closet.

In our line of work, we have seen fires from just about every source you can think of. The most common source of fires is from smoking equipment (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc). Other common causes of fire include candles, faulty electrical, uncontained fires (campfires) and cooking accidents.

Do you take the proper steps to prevent fires? Always make sure to thoroughly extinguish lit smoking accessories, never leave candles unattended, contain all home campfires, inspect your electrical work to ensure its up to code, and never leave the room with an open flame while cooking.

We understand accidents happen, and that's why were always here to help. We offer 24 hour emergency services to anyone who may experience fire damage. Call our local office at 904-429-4457 for a free estimate today!

Remember, when dealing with fire, safety first!

Your local Greater St. Augustine SERVPRO is here to help!

Fire Damage in Vacant Homes

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Extensive fire damage at a recent project in St Johns County. We do not stop until you are satisfied - 904-429-4457

Did you know that a study in the United States recently found that only 2% of homes are equipped with automatic fire suppression systems?

Vacant or unsecured structures were 57% more likely to fall victim to fire and soot damage than occupied or secured homes.

If you are in the process of selling your home, or own a second home that is unoccupied for a majority of the year, consider installing an automatic fire suppression system to help protect your investment. In addition, always make sure that the structure is secured with high quality locks and a security system.

These simple systems could end up saving you a lot of time and money in the future. If a building you own is the victim of fire and/or soot damage, always call local specialists at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St Augustine Beach for all restoration services. Free consultations are available for all local customers. We are industry leading professionals and will work to restore your property back to its original state.

"Like it never even happened." - with a local twist - SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine/St Augustine Beach 

Did you know there are different levels of fire?

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Picture shows a home in St Augustine, recently damaged by a "major fire".

Fires are a threat that (hopefully) most of us will never face in our lifetime. However, even the smallest kitchen fire could require professional cleaning. SERVPRO classifies fires into three different levels.

Minor fire damage produces light to moderate amounts of smoke, and only affects a small percentage of a structure. Minor fire damage may still require professional dry cleaning, repainting, and refinishing of floors. Cabinets, drywall, and counter tops will all require wet cleaning with sanitizing/deodorizing chemicals. An Ozone machine may be required to remove any lingering smells.

Medium fire damage could result in more serious issues such as charred framing that affects large portions of the building. Structural damage may require extensive structural repairs. Extensive wet cleaning, deodorization, and Ozone treatment will be requires to restore the building to its previous conditions.

 Major fires usually require boarding up the structure, winterizing the building (if necessary), and removing any burned debris that may be contaminated. Restoration usually involves removing all contents from the building in order to properly treat the structure.

Fire damage restoration is a science, and should be left to licensed, certified, and insured professionals like us! SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach is fully equipped to handle fire damage in North East Florida! Estimates are free, and our work is 100% guaranteed

Fire Damage? Call local specialists at SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine/St Augustine Beach.

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Pictures shows home in St Augustine ravaged by fire and soot damage.

Treating fire damage

If your home or business is the victim of fire damage, we can help. Our thorough plan is designed to maximize productivity and minimize stress for you. Proper remediation by our experts here at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach will save you time, money, and stress.

• Inspection- Our goal is to satisfy the property owner from arrival to departure. We explain the entire process to you, and we walk you through every step to ensure you are completely comfortable before we begin.

• Minimize Loss- Perform emergency services to limit secondary damage to property

• Pretest- Identify what can be restored and what will need to be replaced. Our restoration experts are highly trained to restore valuables. We report all losses directly to the client’s insurance company, and we provide the insurance company all of the information they need.

• Produce- Our final goal to provide the highest level of customer service and to produce the best results in the restoration industry

If you have questions about fire, smoke, or soot damage, call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach at 904-429-4457. Our expert estimates and opinions are always free!

Fire Damage in St Augustine: Damages you cannot see.

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Soot and Fire Damage ravaged this St Augustine home. Rest assured we will make it "Like it never even happened."

When you think about fire damage, it’s relatively easy to visualize. Fires leaves behind a mess of charred debris, soot, smoke, and ash. While all of these things can be hazardous to humans, the most dangerous thing that fires potentially leave behind are invisible asbestos deposits and the combustion deposits of lead paint. These chemicals are especially damaging to children.

Homes and buildings built prior to 1980 may contain asbestos and lead paint. In these cases, professional remediation is extremely important. Fire damage remediation is a science, and should be left to the professionals at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach. Fire damage estimates are free, and no job is too big or too small. When it comes to your health, and the health of the people you love, don’t take any risks. We are here to help with all of your remediation and restoration needs!

Fire damage: The dangers you can’t see

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a home. Always call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine for professional water, fire, and mold remediation.

When you think about fire damage, it’s relatively easy to visualize. Fires leaves behind a mess of charred debris, soot, smoke, and ash. While all of these things can be hazardous to humans, the most dangerous thing that fires potentially leave behind are invisible asbestos deposits and the combustion deposits of lead paint. These chemicals are especially damaging to children.

Homes and buildings built prior to 1980 may contain asbestos and lead paint. In these cases, professional remediation is extremely important. Fire damage remediation is a science and should be left to the professionals at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach. Fire damage estimates are free, and no job is too big or too small. When it comes to your health, and the health of the people you love, don’t take any risks. We are here to help with all of your remediation and restoration needs!

Water Heater Safety

1/17/2018 (Permalink)

Water heater failure is costly and time consuming. Take these simple steps to protect your home!

Water heater failure causes fires and flooding all across the world. Water heater routine maintenance can help you avoid the catastrophe the occurs when a water heater fails. Nationwide insurance recently offered some tips about water heater safety that we would like to share with you.

Pulling up on the handle to make sure water flows freely out, and stops when you let go of the handle. If it does nothing or runs or drips, then the valve should be replaced.

 Strapping your water heater is a good idea, even if you live outside an earthquake zone. If your water heater were to fall over for any reason, it could sever the gas line and cause an explosion.

Flushing the hot water heater through the drain valve at least once a year to remove sediment buildup. You should have a drain line, usually to within about 6 inches of the floor, or plumbed outside. This is to prevent you from being scalded if the valve should open while you’re standing next to it.

Remove paper, accumulated dust or other combustibles from the heater enclosure.

Extinguish the pilot light before using flammable liquids or setting off aerosol bug bombs.

If the device is in the garage, raise it so the pilot light is 18 inches above the floor. This helps prevent ignition of gasoline vapors that collect near the floor.

Consider installing an automatic gas-shutoff valve which stops the flow of gas if the ground moves or if gas flow increases dramatically. The valve, which costs around $300, prevents fires when a gas line breaks due to flood, earthquake or other disaster.

You may also want to insulate the first 6 feet of the hot water pipe and the first 3 feet of the cold water pipe that extends from your hot water tank. Insulating the hot water pipe reduces heat loss and insulating the cold water pipe reduces “sweating” in the summer. You can find pipe wrap insulation for this purpose in most hardware stores.

Do not use pipe wrap or any other insulation within 6 inches of the draft hood or flue exhaust vent at the top of the natural gas water heater.

Your One Stop Shop For #Local Restoration!

1/12/2018 (Permalink)

The self-cleaning feature on this oven caused a fire in a Vilano Beach residence

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach works hard to ensure that our clients are treated with the utmost compassion after suffering a loss.

Fire, flood, and mold damage disrupt your life and often displace you from your home. SERVPRO is here to make your life easier.

Fire, flood, and mold damage requires affected materials to be removed. When our team removes baseboard, drywall, popcorn ceiling (etc), we treat the damage using proper restoration techniques to ensure that the damage will be eliminated without spreading.

Once the damage is mitigated, our construction crews go back in and replace the baseboards, drywall, popcorn ceiling, etc. When we start a project, we make sure to return your home back to its original state before we depart. Our teams offer full build back services for buildings that require partial demolition.

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach has done emergency service work for cars, buses, RV's, boats, small homes, mansions, hotels, warehouses and many more. Our wide array of services makes us the obvious choice for all your #local restoration needs!

We’re locally owner and operated in St. Augustine, and we love to help our community. Our insurance estimates are always FREE, and our teams are standing by 24/7 to assist in your time of need.

Space Heater Safety Reminder

1/2/2018 (Permalink)

The #Local apartment fire was caused due to a space heater over heating from improper refueling.

A #local St. Augustine apartment fell victim to a fire started by a kerosene powered space heater. While this is an isolated incident, we wanted to take a moment to give you some safety tips regarding space heaters. 

Space heaters that require fuel should be handled and used with extreme caution. While fuel powered space heaters are more efficient at heating a large space, there are certain things you must do to protect yourself from a potential fire. 

Never (ever) leave space heaters running without supervision. It's understandable that you don't want to come home to a cold house, but leaving a space heater running with no one around is extremely dangerous.Space heaters may overheat which could ignite the fuel and cause a fire.

Here are some helpful tips to keep your home safe:

1: Always make sure the space heater is turned off before refueling

2: Remove the space heater from the residence before refueling. Never refuel inside the house!

3: Allow the space heater adequate time to cool down. Refueling a space heater while it is still hot can cause an explosion. If you spill gas onto one of the hot parts of the space heater, it could easily ignite.

4: Make sure to check if the space heater you are using is approved for indoor use. Most fuel powered space heaters are designed for outdoor use only!

5: Always be sure to double check that your home fire extinguishers are charged and that the expiration date has not passed.

6: Do not place space heaters on carpets or other flammable fabrics. Make sure the space heater is not in a confined space where it may overheat

7: Electric space heaters should never be plugged in if the room is damp. Humid air can caused the space heater to short, leading to an electrical fire.

8: Always make sure that electric space heaters are plugged into an outlet. Extension cords increase the risk of shorting.

9: Before purchasing any space heater, make sure that the space heater has passed safety tests in the United States. The easiest way to tell is to check for an Underwriters Laboratory Label (UL).

Be safe, St. Augustine friends! 

SERVPRO's Fleet Can Handle Anything!

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Before and after shots of our newest vehicle, the NV200

Did you know that our #local SERVPRO Franchise now has 10 emergency service vehicles! We have a vehicle for every situation, and we are truly faster to any size disaster!

Our newest vehicle is a SERVPRO green NV200, capable of hauling up to 10 dehumidifiers and 15 air movers, plus 2 members of our emergency response team!

We also have 5 full size pick up trucks used for insurance estimates, general transportation, debris hauling, and equipment transportation.

Our largest vehicle is a 16 foot box truck that is used on our large commercial jobs for our #local clients.

Our Promaster van features a built in truck mount for immediate on-site emergency water extraction. The truck mount also handles our residential cleaning projects.

Our other trucks and vans are used by our construction department, operating under our fully licensed general contractor. These vehicles all have the capability to haul our 14 foot trailer that is loaded with tools to tackle any size construction project.

It is our privilege to serve our #local community, and we wish you all a very happy holiday season!

Thanksgiving Fire Safety Tips!

11/21/2017 (Permalink)

Kitchen fire in St. Augustine, FL. Don't cook unattended and always remember to call SERVPRO when disaster strikes!

Thanksgiving is a time to relax and celebrate with family, but we wanted to take a moment to remind everyone to exercise caution while preparing Thanksgiving dinner. Statistically, fire departments respond to more residential fire calls on Thanksgiving day than any other day of the year.

Every year, 2,100 residential structures catch fire on Thanksgiving, resulting in 10 deaths, 50 serious injuries, and $28 million dollars in damage. Here are some simple steps that you can take to avoid disaster on your day of relaxation and celebration:

• Don’t leave food unattended while cooking
• Check all smoke detectors before beginning Thanksgiving dinner preparation
• Keep children and pets away from the kitchen
• Keep the kitchen floors unobstructed to avoid tripping
• Don’t use any electrical appliances that have damaged or severed cords (use this as an opportunity to treat yourself to some new kitchen toys!)
• Avoid using deep fryers (even in the back yard, the NFPA discourages ALL use of fryers)

As always, our crews are on call 24/7 365 days of the year, should disaster strike. Please take note of the steps above to protect your home and your family! Relax, kick back, enjoy some football, and give thanks!

On this Thanksgiving, we feel especially thankful for all of YOU, our loyal clients! Thank you for helping to make SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach your local choice for all of St. Augustine’s restoration needs!

SERVPRO Sponsors Firefighters for Families

11/8/2017 (Permalink)

When: November 18th Where: Back 40 Café A1A Time: 1:00-4:00pm Charity: Firefighters for Families

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine loves its #local community in the nation’s oldest city! We are dedicated to supporting any local business, and we strive to give back to community whenever possible. St. Augustine is supported by many public servants who work hard to keep our city safe, and we want to help celebrate and recognize those men and women.

On November 18^th, Firefighters for Families will be hosting a firefighter appreciation event at The Back 40 on A1A in St. Augustine Beach from 1:00-4:00pm. This awesome event will feature free Tacos for firefighters, $1 beers for all, live music, and a bounce house for the kids! Come out to show your appreciation to our awesome local firefighters and their families.

If your business would like to sign up to be a sponsor, or make a donation to Firefighters for Families, Please Contact Cam Robinson (Realtor at Keller Williams) at 904-679-9979. We look forward to seeing you all at this awesome event!

October is Fire Safety Month!

10/25/2017 (Permalink)

Fire in Mandarin, FL. The damage for this house was able to be remediated by our expert teams!

October is National Fire Safety Month in the United States, and our local team here at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach wanted to offer you a few safety tips. Most fire safety may seem like common sense, but there a lot of things that cause fires that we rarely think about.

1: Since 1974 the National Electrical code has required 15 changes in code. If your homes electrical has not been inspected in recent years, you should strongly consider contacting an electrician!

2: 50% of electrical fires are caused by faulty ACFI Breakers and Outlets. Consult an electrician for more safety information regarding electrical fires.

3: Extension cords cause 3,300 fires annually in the United States. Never use extension cords with severing or tearing. If you use extension cords throughout your home, consider having additional outlets installed. Outlet installation is cheaper than fire remediation!

4: Faulty smoke detectors in homes are the leading cause of residential fire deaths. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years, batteries should be checked monthly and replaced every year.

In addition to these lesser known fire prevention methods, be sure to always let common sense prevail. Never cook unattended, don't run self-cleaning ovens over night, keep a fire extinguisher readily accessible, and remain calm in the event a fire does start.

Stay safe, St. Augustine!

#Staugustinestrong

Beware of Self-Cleaning Ovens!

8/24/2017 (Permalink)

This oven caught on fire during the self-cleaning process.

Self-Cleaning ovens are extremely convenient, but sometimes they can also be extremely dangerous. Our fire production team was dispatched to a house in Vilano Beach to deal with a house fire that was started by a self-cleaning oven. Our response time was only 34 minutes from phone call to arrival!

When we arrived to the house we were shocked to discover that the oven that started the fire was barely dirty! Most oven fires are started by grease or food particles that catch fire during the self-cleaning process. The oven we inspected should not have been an issue, which proves that all ovens in self-cleaning mode should be closely monitored.

We understand it is common practice to start the self-cleaning mode, but beware of doing this if you are not able to actively monitor the oven for safety. Don't use the self cleaning feature before you go to sleep at night, and do not leave the home unattended while the oven is in self-cleaning mode.

Most importantly, if your home or business suffers a fire loss, call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine!

Charcoal Filters (Mandarin House Fire)

8/8/2017 (Permalink)

This fire occurred in Mandarin, as the result of fireworks during a celebration. Luckily these Mandarin Residents left their home in the right hands!

Did you know that charcoal is naturally absorbent? Many air filtration systems actually function more efficiently when a charcoal filter is used. For example, SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine uses charcoal filtration in our air scrubbers after a fire loss occurs.

Air scrubbers pull air through charcoal filters, capturing odors onto a filter and recirculating the filtered air back into the indoor environment.

After a fire loss, paint and varnish release a very strong smell that can be dangerous for humans and animals to ingest. Air scrubbers help to neutralize to odor and replace it with an acidic smell.

For clients that may have a sensitive disposition towards cleaning products or other chemicals, charcoal filtration work to remove vapors from the air.

If you or someone you know suffer a fire loss, let the experts at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine help remediate and restore your home. We'll make it look "Like it never even happened."

Fire Damage in Vacant Homes

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

This empty house fell victim to a structure fire. Don't let this happen to your property! Takes steps to prevent fires and protect your investment!

Did you know that a study in the United States recently found that only 2% of homes are equipped with automatic fire suppression systems?

Vacant or unsecured structures were 57% more likely to fall victim to structure fire damage than occupied or secured homes.

If you are in the process of selling your home, or own a second home that is unoccupied for a majority of the year, consider installing an automatic fire suppression system to help protect your investment. In addition, always make sure that the structure is secured with high quality locks and a security system.

These simple systems could end up saving you a lot of time and money in the future. If a building you own is the victim of fire damage, always call SERVPRO Greater St. Augustine for all restoration services. We are industry leading professionals and will work to restore your property back to its original state.

"Like it never even happened."

Fire Safety in the Nations Oldest City

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Old wooden homes are always more vulnerable to fire damage. This fire was caused by faulty electrical currents. Don't let this be you!

In our line of work, we have seen fires from just about every source you can think of. The most common source of fires is from smoking equipment (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc). Other common causes of fire include candles, faulty electrical, uncontained fires (campfires) and cooking accidents.

Do you take the proper steps to prevent fires? Always make sure to thoroughly extinguish lit smoking accessories, never leave candles unattended, contain all home campfires, inspect your electrical work to ensure its up to code, and never leave the room with an open flame while cooking.

We understand accidents happen, and that's why were always here to help. We offer 24 hour emergency services to anyone who may experience fire damage. Call our local office at 904-429-4457 for a free estimate today!

Remember, when dealing with fire, safety first!

Your local Greater St. Augustine SERVPRO is here to help!

Fire damage: The dangers you can’t see

6/1/2017 (Permalink)

Fire damage in a home. Always call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine for professional water, fire, and mold remediation.

When you think about fire damage, it’s relatively easy to visualize. Fires leaves behind a mess of charred debris, soot, smoke, and ash. While all of these things can be hazardous to humans, the most dangerous thing that fires potentially leave behind are invisible asbestos deposits and the combustion deposits of lead paint. These chemicals are especially damaging to children.

Homes and buildings built prior to 1980 may contain asbestos and lead paint. In these cases, professional remediation is extremely important. Fire damage remediation is a science, and should be left to the professionals at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach. Fire damage estimates are free, and no job is too big or too small. When it comes to your health, and the health of the people you love, don’t take any risks. We are here to help with all of your remediation and restoration needs!

Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

Treating fire damage

If your home or business is the victim of fire damage, we can help. Our thorough plan is designed to maximize productivity and minimize stress for you. Proper remediation by our experts here at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach will save you time, money, and stress.

• Inspection- Our goal is to satisfy the property owner from arrival to departure. We explain the entire process to you, and we walk you through every step to ensure you are completely comfortable before we begin.

• Minimize Loss- Perform emergency services to limit secondary damage to property

• Pretest- Identify what can be restored and what will need to be replaced. Our restoration experts are highly trained to restore valuables. We report all losses directly to the client’s insurance company, and we provide the insurance company all of the information they need.

• Produce- Our final goal to provide the highest level of customer service and to produce the best results in the restoration industry

If you have questions about fire, smoke, or soot damage, call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach at 904-429-4457. Our expert estimates and opinions are always free!

Did you know there are different levels of fire?

5/31/2017 (Permalink)

This picture accurately represents a "major fire"

Fires are a threat that (hopefully) most of us will never face in our life time. However, even the smallest kitchen fire could require professional cleaning. SERVPRO classifies fires into three different levels.

Minor fire damage produces light to moderate amounts of smoke, and only affects a small percentage of a structure. Minor fire damage may still require professional dry cleaning, repainting, and refinishing of floors. Cabinets, drywall, and countertops will all require wet cleaning with sanitizing/deodorizing chemicals. An Ozone machine may be required to remove any lingering smells.

Medium fire damage could result in more serious issues such as charred framing that affects large portions of the building. Structural damage may require extensive structural repairs. Extensive wet cleaning, deodorization, and Ozone treatment will be requires to restore the building to its previous conditions.

 Major fires usually require boarding up the structure, winterizing the building (if necessary), and removing any burned debris that may be contaminated. Restoration usually involves removing all contents from the building in order to properly treat the structure.

Fire damage restoration is a science, and should be left to licensed, certified, and insured professionals like us! SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach is fully equipped to handle fire damage in North East Florida! Estimates are free, and our work is 100% guaranteed!

Burn Ban in Effect for St. Johns County!

5/18/2017 (Permalink)

Burn Ban in Effect!

St. John’s County Burn Ban in Effect

                As of May 18^th, Florida has 59 active fires burning throughout the state. Almost 200,000 acres of wildfires have burned so far in 2017, due to a lack of rain statewide. With fires on the rise, (some burning out of control) St. John’s County officials have enacted a Burn Ban to help keep our community safe. Statewide fires have emitted smoke which drastically effects the quality of our air. Wildfire smoke may contain ozone, a reactive molecule which irritates the human respiratory system. In addition, wildfire smoke also contains the toxic chemical, carbon monoxide.

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine has already responded to several small fires in St. John’s county residences and businesses. With conditions as dry as they currently are, we urge citizens to take extra precaution and to adhere to burn ban regulations. SERVPRO specializes in residential and commercial restoration for fire damages buildings. Proper treatment for fire/smoke damaged buildings requires licensed, trained, and insurance production crews. Our highly experienced team here at SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine is here for you if disaster strikes!

Vapor Shop Fire and Smoke Damage - full project report by SERVPRO.

5/8/2016 (Permalink)

Contents moved back in! SERVPRO in St. Augustine offers full service restoration - from cleaning to putback and everything in between!

We have recently completed a big commercial fire and smoke damage restoration project in St. Augustine and put together this video highlighting all major steps of the project. 

The project took a little over two months to complete. First stage of the restoration project was to clean out all of the store’s contents. Vapor shop and Hookah lounge had thousands of small and medium sized glass pipes and other devices. 

During the content cleaning stages of the project more than 150 boxes were used, over a mile of bubble wrap and over 1000 man hours spent. 

As part of restoring the structureSERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach removed and replaced damaged drywall, installed new tile flooring, ceilings, HVAC system. Sealed the ceilings painted the entire structure and cleaned countless surfaces. 

Relax and enjoy this video. Need fire and/or smoke damage restoration estimate – call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach at 904-429-4457. 

Camachee Island fire before and after report

4/21/2016 (Permalink)

Our techs wanted to show office the dry sponges work!!! St. Augustine rocks!

We have been super busy lately and have not had time to update our blog! 

First we will back track to the beginning of April and summarize our most recent fire restoration project - Camachee Island utility fire and smoke damage. 

Project was completed in a record amount of time for such an extensive scope - from contents, to specialty dry sponge treatment, to wiping, and sealing and there are bound to be details we are leaving behind - long story short, relax and enjoy this short video, which highlights the transformation.

Note the first portion of the video was made during the first day and the last, on the last day. The project was completed by two alternating crews (2 techs and a crew chief) and took an estimate 95 man hours to complete.

Camachee Island storage facility fire and smoke damage - project by SERVPRO.

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

The beautiful Cmachee Island Yacht Club. SERVPRO's St. Augustine location is thrilled to assist in this fire and smoke damage restoration!

Guilty as charged! We are soooo behind on our updates!

Here is one of our latest fire damage restoration projects! Camachee Island storage facility caught fire a few weeks back. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach were dispatched to evaluate the extent of fire and smoke damage (we had a video a few weeks back). 

We are thrilled to be making good progress! Follow the link for the video update and let us know what you think - 904-429-4457. 

Vapor Shop Fire in St. Augustine - update by SERVPRO.

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

Out trucks out on Vapor Fire Damage Restoration job in St. Augustine. Call Local SERVPRO for all Damage Restoration needs 904-429-4457.

We have been making great progress on one of our current fire damage restoration projects, and this one is huge! Big commercial space! 

Here is the latest video update! 

Snoop Dogg "visits" Vapor Shop Fire Damage project in St. Augusitne!

3/17/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach getting assistance from SERVPRO of Jacksonville South on this Fire Damage project!

We are making great progress at our fire damage project in St. Augustine. 150 Boxes later, over a mile of bubble wrap and we are close to moving on to structure! 

We even had Snoop drop by to let us know how well we are doing!!! 

See for yourselves!!! Video update!!! Vapor Shop fire

The word is out - SERVPRO in St. Augustine does Fire Damage Restoration better!

3/10/2016 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration should be left to St. Augustine Restoration experts at SERVPRO - 904-429-4457 Free estimates.

We have been fortunate to assist several St. Augustine families in need of Fire Damage Restoration within the last few weeks. And whether by luck (or lack of it if you ask the customers) and referrals we are getting more and more calls daily for Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration estimates. 

Here to help - SERVPRO's Fire Damage Estimate in St. Augustine! 

Choose the Best Fire Damage Repair & Fire Restoration in St. Augustine

3/8/2016 (Permalink)

Fire and Smoke Damage?! Leave it to the experts at SERVPRO St. Augustine's location.

If your home or business has recently experienced a disaster, you might be scrambling to figure out what to do next to restore your belongings and property. Fire damage can be particularly troublesome, especially if the damage is throughout your property. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach is proud to be the local's choice for emergency cleaning services, including fire damage repair, mold remediation, and water damage restoration.

The professionals at SERVPRO offer expert fire restoration, including these services:

·         First Steps After The Fire: The immediate moments following a disaster can be the most stressful. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach will arrive at your home or business on the same day of the event, regardless of the size of the fire. 

·         Expert Knowledge: Each member of the team is well-versed in all aspects of residential and commercial restoration. Whether it's upholstery damage, odor control, or smoke issues, they will quickly restore your property back to normal.

·         Restoration Method: SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach is a locally-owned company with national resources. Their policy is to perform fire restoration first, before replacing every damaged item which can quickly rack up costs.

·         Personalized Service: All fire restoration situations are different so your fire damage repair service will be catered to your specific needs. Even if this means additional clean-up, managing insurance paperwork, or simply a friendly ear to listen to your concerns, SERVPRO will be there to help.

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine / St. Augustine Beach truly cares about the communities they serve and will work quickly after a fire to restore your property. Visit them online to find out more about their fire restoration and other emergency cleaning services, or give them a call at (904) 429-4457 to schedule an appointment.

Update from a Fire Damage job by SERVPRO's St. Augustine location.

3/4/2016 (Permalink)

All Fire Damage must be professionally restored. Here at SERVPRO in St. Augustine we are proud to be Certified Fire Damage experts!

Latest video update from a Fire Damage project SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach is currently working on. 

This short video illustrates the following steps in Fire Damage removal process:

1. Wipe down. All soot accumulated on walls, ceilings and other surfaces must be removed. Typically that is one of the first steps in Fire Damage remediation, following debris removal of course. Once the wipe down is complete, smoke damage will be reevaluated and the structure may be repainted.

2. This is an older structure, like most of St. Augustine buildings around down town. In the 50's and 60's it was common to use plaster and many other materials and steps that no longer performed in the trade. One example of that in the video is the textured ceilings. It would be too much of a job to remove all that plaster and since plaster is a solid material we are able to use some of SERVPRO's patented chemicals to remove smoke and fire damage from this St. Augustine home. 

3. It may take multiple applications to get the heavy soot off around the duct registers. 

If you have any questions or in need of a consultation on Damage Restoration, give us a call 904-429-4457. 

Local Smoke and Vapor shop goes up in flames in St. Augustine!

3/2/2016 (Permalink)

Local business is shut down due to fire damage. SERVPRO's St. Augustine location is quick to help!

No, really! Not the kind of flames you would expect from the title, but neverthless. Small electrical fire caused a substantial amount of soot and fire damage in this local business. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach are currently in the assesment stages of the project. As we make progress we will post videos, before and after, and other type of updates. 

You can see the heavy sooting from the blog photo.

904-429-4457 Free Damage Restoration estimates. 

Fire Damage Phase I - Demolition, SERVPRO's St. Augustine location.

2/18/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach has the logistics in place to take on any projects - Fire Damage, no problem!

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach were recently hired to restore a badly damaged St. Augustine home. An intruder set the bedroom of this home on fire, in the process causing a great deal of fire damage. 

Entire project will take months to complete, this video captures some of the demolition work during phase I. Come back for more updates. 

Free Fire Damage Estimates by SERVPRO's St. Augustine location - 904-429-4457. 

Fire Damage Restoration update from St. Augustine, by SERVPRO!

2/16/2016 (Permalink)

With time soot gets harder to wipe down. It is important to address all Fire Damage professionally, as soon as possible! 904-429-4457 free estimates.

There are several Fire Damage Restoration projects SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach has begun in February. Some of these have long term fire damage and have not been professionally addressed until now. It is very important to hire a professional to restore all Fire Damage. Call SERVPRO professionals in St. Augustine 904-429-4457 for a free fire remediation estimate! 

Fire Damage Cleanup in St. Augustine by SERVPRO.

2/15/2016 (Permalink)

Look at the difference - SERVPRO in St. Augustine knows Fire Damage Restoration! Free Estimates 904-429-4457.

We recently began several Fire Damage Restoration projects. Check out this first video - SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach knows all Damage Restoration! 

SERVPRO Fire Damage Cleanup

Fire Damage - Call SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach!

2/5/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO located in St. Augustine knows all things restoration!

One of our big Fire Damage projects. First things first - let's get these windows boarded up!!! 

Entire project is scheduled to for approximately 4 weeks, come back for updates and more videos!!! 

Fire damage in the kitchen of this St. Augustine home.

1/31/2016 (Permalink)

Fire damage in this St. Augustine home's kitchen. SERVPRO in St. Augustine estimates a few days to complete the cleaning part of this project.

Thankfully what you see in the picture is the worst of this fire damage! This stove fire was quickly put out by the alert home owners, which limited the damage. However, there is plenty of soot to wipe down and things to restore. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach is the local restoration and reconstruction specialist. 

Fire Damage in St. Augustine home. SERVPRO's completed remediation estimate.

1/28/2016 (Permalink)

Fire Damaged bathroom in this St. Augustine home. SERVPRO in St. Augustine offers full service restoration.

One more photo from a fire site in St. Augustine. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach were called out to put together complete fire damage remediation and reconstruction estimate. 

Fire Damaged home in St. Augustine, Florida.

1/28/2016 (Permalink)

Photo shows devastation fire caused in this St. Augustine home. SERVPRO has the expertise to handle any fire damage in St. Johns County.

SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach got called out on another fire in a St. Augustine home today. Project of this scope could take weeks to complete. 

Extensive Fire Damaged Home in St. Augustine, SERVPRO's on the scene.

1/27/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO was quickly dispatched to this St. Augustine home after it was damaged by a large blaze. SERVPRO opened with St. Augustine location in 2015.

Fire ravaged this small home in St. Augustine. Thankfully no one was injured in the blaze. SERVPRO of Greater St. Augustine/St. Augustine Beach is St. Augustine's Fire Restoration leader, bringing in more than 18 years of remediation experience (combined Damage Restoration experience of our full time techs). 

SERVPRO in St Augustine cares

12/29/2015 (Permalink)

Fire Damage - made preventable by SERVPRO in St Augustine

This is an example of Holiday tips we run on our social media platforms.

Throwing out the tree? Remember to never put any part of a tree - especially dry ones - near the fireplace. To dispose of it properly, take it to a recycling location or make sure it's picked up by the appropriate service.

Our goal is to not only restore your things to pre-damaged conditions, but to educate St Augustine community with an ultimate goal of preventing desiasters. Catch us up on social media for more helpful tips, neat articles, and our own corky updates. 

Our Facebook account

Fire Damage Restoration and Reconstruction in St Augustine

12/27/2015 (Permalink)

Fire damaged St Augustine residence - no one was injured in the fire.

Older home + faulty electrical system = deadly fire. Pictures from this particular job are difficult to look at.... devastation. Thankfully no one was injured in this St Augustine home. Complete demolition will follow by full restoration, entire project will take months to complete. SERVPRO in St Augustine offers full service restoration, no need to shop around for separate vendors! Fire restoration made easy by SERVPRO's St Augustine location. 

Fire damaged two story home in St Augustine.

12/27/2015 (Permalink)

Two story home caught fire in St Augustine - faulty electrical system is determined to be the cause.

When disaster, like electrical fire, strikes you want a knowledgeable expert guiding you throughout the restoration process. SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine/St Augustine Beach located in the heart of the Old City is the local restoration and reconstruction expert. In the photo you see our marketing car at the job site. If the marketing car is available we use it to perform estimates and deliveries to the job site. 

Fire Damage Restoration of this St Augustine home

12/25/2015 (Permalink)

Contents being stored at SERVPRO's St Augustine Location. Our warehouse is equipped with real-time monitoring systems for added security.

When there is heavy soot as a result of a fire you want your things professionally restored. Blog picture shows content storage by SERVPRO of Greater St Augustine/St Augustine Beach. Our technologically advanced warehouse is equipped to store multiple houses at the same time! Content handling (restoration, storage, and delivery) is one of our specialties at the St Augustine SERVPRO location. 

Small fire can cause a lot of damage in Jacksonville/Mandarin Area - SERVPRO in St Augustine can!

11/9/2015 (Permalink)

Boris and Hulk working together - POD is ready to accept cleaned items. SERVPRO in St Augustine has the logistics in place to run remote jobs.

We are glad to help when our help is needed. When Jacksonville/Mandarin area needs our help after a fire we are here to help. While Jacksonville may not be our core market and we still would like to focus on assisting Old City residents in need, we have the infrastructure in place to take on multiple big jobs. With a first ever location here in the heart of St Augustine - we are faster to any size disaster. SERVPRO in St Augustine covers the entire St Johns County, including Ponte Vedra and has the technological edge to run remote jobs (in Jacksonville).  We are here to help! Free estimates. 

Call SERVPRO in St. Augustine for all restoration needs, big or small! 904-429-4457 

Visit our website for more information.