Stepping Up After Hurricane Helene to Restore Local Homes

10/27/2024 (Permalink)

When Hurricane Helene swept through South Florida, the storm’s outer bands brought heavy rains and tornadoes that left many homes waterlogged and damaged. For homeowners like Christie Fernandez in South Miami, the storm’s impact was severe, with three inches of water flooding her master bedroom. Fortunately, SERVPRO® of South Miami was on the scene quickly, helping residents restore their homes and providing peace of mind during a challenging time.

Rapid Response for Urgent Needs

SERVPRO of South Miami responded immediately to the storm’s aftermath, ready to mitigate the damage from flooding and strong winds. Christie, who had heard of SERVPRO’s work before, trusted them to manage her home’s restoration. When the team arrived, they worked swiftly to assess the damage, carefully moving Christie’s belongings to a secure location and beginning the drying and remediation process.

“Seeing water flood my bedroom was overwhelming, but SERVPRO came through,” Christie recalled. “Nick, the project manager, was especially helpful. He explained every step clearly and kept me updated on what was happening. He made me feel like I was in good hands.”

Nick and the team set up advanced water extraction and drying equipment to remove moisture and prevent mold from forming, taking immediate and thorough action to restore her space. For Christie, SERVPRO’s responsiveness and professionalism made all the difference, transforming a chaotic situation into one that felt manageable and under control.

A Local Team with a Commitment to Community

SERVPRO of South Miami takes pride in helping South Florida residents during challenging times. They understand the stress and hardship that follow in the wake of a severe storm, and they approach each project with a focus on compassion and dedication. For Christie, this was evident from the start, with Nick and his team treating her property with the utmost care and respect.

“SERVPRO really made it ‘Like it never even happened,’” Christie said. “I couldn’t have asked for a more helpful and professional team.”

Ready for Any Storm

With years of experience and a commitment to their community, SERVPRO of South Miami stands ready to handle storm damage of any size. Their rapid response, expert knowledge, and compassionate approach make them a trusted resource for residents across South Florida.

When disaster strikes, SERVPRO of South Miami is just a phone call away, prepared to restore homes and provide reassurance to homeowners like Christie when they need it most.

SERVPRO of South Miami Restores Flooded Home After Intense Storm

9/19/2024 (Permalink)

When a powerful storm swept through South Miami, Maria G.’s home was hit particularly hard. Torrential rain caused severe flooding, filling her home with several inches of water. On top of that, a fallen tree caused damage to her roof, allowing more rain to enter. Her living room and kitchen, were both affected. With so much damage, Maria was understandably distressed and immediately called SERVPRO of South Miami for help.

Within the hour, SERVPRO’s storm damage specialists were at her home, extracting water and carefully drying every inch of the affected area. They removed damaged drywall and insulation to prevent mold growth and ensured her home was structurally sound after the roof repairs. SERVPRO® even helped salvage some of Maria’s personal belongings that had been waterlogged during the storm.

“SERVPRO of South Miami was a lifesaver,” Maria said. “They acted quickly and professionally, explaining every step of the process. They made me feel like my home was in good hands, and they were right. I’m so grateful to have my home back to normal.” Thanks to SERVPRO’s swift action, Maria’s home was fully restored, and she can once again enjoy her beautiful South Miami property.

Protecting Your Home This Hurricane Season: Expert Tips from SERVPRO of South Miami

8/19/2024 (Permalink)

As hurricane season intensifies, South Florida residents are reminded of the power and unpredictability of these storms. Each year, hurricanes bring the potential for devastating damage, but with the right preparation and response plan, you can protect your home and family from the worst. At SERVPRO of South Miami, we're committed to helping our community stay safe and resilient. Here are some expert tips on how to prepare for hurricanes and what to do if your property suffers storm damage.

Preparing Your Home for Hurricane Season

1. Create a Hurricane Emergency Plan Before the storm hits, ensure your family has a clear emergency plan. Know your evacuation routes, gather essential supplies, and keep important documents in a waterproof container. Your plan should also include securing your home and preparing for potential power outages.

2. Reinforce Windows and Doors One of the most vulnerable parts of your home during a hurricane is your windows and doors. Consider installing storm shutters or using plywood to board them up. Reinforce garage doors, as they are often a weak point during high winds.

3. Check Your Roof Inspect your roof for loose shingles or tiles and make necessary repairs. A secure roof can prevent water from entering your home during heavy rains. Consider investing in hurricane straps or clips to secure your roof to the frame of your house.

4. Trim Trees and Clear Debris Overhanging branches and debris in your yard can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Trim trees and shrubs around your home and remove any loose items from your yard to reduce the risk of damage.

5. Secure Outdoor Items Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, and other items that could become airborne during a storm. If you have a pool, cover it securely to prevent debris from falling in.

6. Check Your Insurance Coverage Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it covers hurricane damage, including wind and flooding. It’s also a good idea to document your belongings with photos or videos in case you need to file a claim.

What to Do After the Storm

Even with the best preparation, hurricanes can cause significant damage. Here's how SERVPRO of South Miami can help you recover:

1. Immediate Damage Assessment After the storm passes, it's crucial to assess the damage as soon as it's safe. Our team is ready to respond 24/7, providing a comprehensive inspection of your property. We check for structural damage, water intrusion, and other storm-related issues.

2. Water Damage Restoration Water damage is one of the most common and severe consequences of hurricanes. Our experts use advanced equipment to extract water, dry affected areas, and prevent mold growth. We also offer dehumidification services to ensure your home is thoroughly dried out.

3. Mold Remediation In South Florida's humid climate, mold can develop quickly after water damage. SERVPRO of South Miami provides expert mold remediation services to remove mold and prevent its return, ensuring your home is safe and healthy.

4. Structural Repairs From minor repairs to major reconstruction, we handle all aspects of storm damage restoration. Our team works efficiently to restore your home to its pre-storm condition, minimizing disruption to your life.

5. Insurance Claim Assistance Navigating the insurance claim process can be overwhelming, especially after a disaster. We work directly with your insurance company to streamline the process and ensure you get the coverage you need for repairs and restoration.

Why Choose SERVPRO of South Miami for storm damage cleanup?

When disaster strikes, you need a trusted partner who understands the unique challenges of hurricane recovery in South Florida. SERVPRO of South Miami has the experience, expertise, and equipment to handle any size disaster. Our team is local, so we know the community and the specific risks you face. We're committed to helping you protect your home and recover quickly after a storm.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—prepare your home for hurricane season today. And if the storm hits, remember that SERVPRO of South Miami is just a phone call away.

Contact us anytime for emergency storm response services or to learn more about how we can help you prepare for the next hurricane. Stay safe, South Miami!

Overcoming Tropical Storm Water Damage in Miami Is Easier with Professionals

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Storm damage is a year round threat. Our team has the equipment and training to restore your home.

Trust SERVPRO for Miami Tropical Storm Water Damage Mitigation

Many assume that the storm and hurricane season passes by with little impact on their lives, but those who have undergone the experience can attest to the massive damage a tropical storm leaves behind. Repairing your property after such a disaster might be stressful and costly if you do not get qualified service providers to do it for you.

To avoid the stresses of tropical stormwater damage in your Miami home, call SERVPRO. We have a team of professionals trained in restoring homes after a storm. We are equipped with sophisticated equipment and ready to restore your residence. We can handle all types of damage linked with tropical storms like wind and flood damage. Our restoration process follows the following phases:

• Emergency response involves the inspection and assessment of the job site
• Demolition, extraction of water, and drying, followed by daily inspections to check the progress of the job
• Cleaning and disinfection
• Deodorization
• Replacement of ruined materials

Our SERVPRO technicians can use non-penetrative moisture meters to locate moisture. We can extract water from your house using self-priming trash pumps. We often use these pumps when a minimal lift is required or when we need to transfer water horizontally. For instance, self-priming trash pumps are suitable for extracting water from single-story structures after a hurricane. 

Our SERVPRO team can also use air moving and dehumidifying devices to remove all moisture from your property to prevent mold infestation. Our knowledge of construction and drying enables us to make beneficial choices for our customers. We can also remove the affected drywall, flooring, and insulation and clean your house.

Before allowing customers to move back into the house, SERVPRO performs confirmatory tests to ensure that the home and all the affected items return to their original condition. After we perform a walkthrough, we can request that you sign a Certificate of Satisfaction. 

Preparing for the worst is vital when storms as destructive as hurricanes approach. If storm damage catches you off-guard, contact SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 for repairs. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Are Options for Household Contents After Miami Flood Damage?

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Miami can offer assistance after a flood from a storm.

SERVPRO Pack-Out Services Deliver Outstanding Results for Flooded Miami Properties

As part of a storm’s aftermath in Miami, flood damage impacts household goods, furnishings, books and papers, and more. When flooding causes safety hazards severe enough to move you and your family out of your home during water mitigation and remediation, what accommodations can restorers extend to the non-structural items you leave behind?

Families should always consider a pack-out during flood restoration in South Miami. When conditions are too hazardous to permit your home to provide shelter, it makes sense to move the household contents to a safe and accessible place as well. Reasons to accept SERVPRO’s help with a pack-out include:

• Clearing contents from your residence allows on-site water damage restoration crews to focus on structural components needing water damage mitigation and remediation rather than endlessly shifting heavy furniture and dozens of items. 

• Wet contents moved out cease suffering progressive deterioration and receive appropriate cleaning, drying, and other restorative services.   

• Specially trained Contents Processing Technicians (CPT) evaluate items safely in the SERVPRO production facility, documenting conditions and creating innovative restoration plans while collaborating with your insurance carrier, ensuring claims coverage.

• Items are available in a secure place when you need them, rather than waiting days or weeks until your home’s restoration is complete when stored in your home.

How Does SERVPRO Track Packed-Out Possessions?

Our Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) manages the items. Trained technicians create extensive lists of articles room by room, barcoding when possible. Diagrams and pictures to remind our crews where furnishings belong when it comes time for the pack-back. Digital imaging provides a visual record of the flood damage sustained by specific contents and then illustrates how successful SERVPRO efforts were in:

• Recovering documents and pictures through freeze-drying

• Laundering or dry cleaning textiles

• Removing soiling from non-porous objects with spray and wipe, immersion, or ultrasonic technology

• Cleaning and drying padded and upholstered furnishings with wanded extraction equipment

• Concentrating drying and deodorizing strategies using contained areas within the facility where we can control humidity, heat, air movement, and various stench-removing  techniques

Contents can experience significant flooding damage, but SERVPRO of South Miami offers solutions that minimize disruption and restore cherished possessions. Call (305) 269-8900 for a prompt assessment and recovery plan.

Do Homeowners Need to Worry About an Increase in Coastal Flooding in Miami?

12/31/2021 (Permalink)

When storms occur in our area, flooding often results. Tackle flood damage in your home with a quick call to SERVPRO. We are standing by 24/7 for you.

Homes in Miami are Subject to Coast Flooding, and SERVPRO is There to Mitigate the Storm Damage

Miami is a thriving, heavily populated city. International trade, commerce, finance, and culture mark Miami as a leader in these fields. Once an Indian settlement, people throughout history have been drawn to the sun and fertile growing area. Today folks are still enjoying the beaches and the sunshine. But even on the sunniest of days, the risks of storms and flooding still lurks in the background.

What Causes the Sea Level to Rise?

Over the past thirty-four years, the sea level has risen approximately 5 inches in Miami. Flood damage risks increase when the sea level rise increases. Riskfinder.org predicts that climate change is going to push the rise even higher in this century. With this change, the starting point for storm surges and high tides gets raised. The likelihood of more frequent storms that are more severe is the result. There are three main factors impacting sea level rises:

•   Sinking Land – Coastal lands are sinking slowly in many areas. Part of the process is due to natural processes. Pump extractions of fossil fuels and water from underground contribute to the sinking as well.
•  Warming Ocean – According to satellite and thermometer measurements, the ocean has been warming for over a century. Warm water expands. As a result of this expansion, the ocean has to go up and spill over onto the land.
•   Shrinking Ice – Glaciers and ice sheets in places such as Antarctica and Greenland are slowly melting due to warmer air and temperatures. Pieces break off and enter the ocean. This greatly raises the sea level. 

What Kind of Damage Can Occur from Storm Flooding?

The highest observed flood in the Miami area was in 2005 and reached a height of 5.8 feet. The flood damage was severe and impacted homes throughout the city. When flooding like this occurs, it displaces families, is dangerous, and requires professional storm damage cleanup. SERVPRO arrives at the scene as quickly as possible and provides emergency mitigation. Homeowners have enough stress to deal with in the aftermath of a flood; dealing with flood cleanup should not be one of those things.

When our crew arrives, safety issues are dealt with immediately. The project manager oversees the scope of the property and determines the extent of the damage. A plan is then devised to provide flood mitigation. This plan includes the type of cleaning, recovery, and needed supplies to complete the job. A lot of damage can occur during storm flooding. During the scope, the technicians look for the following:

•  Floodwater Contamination – Waters from a flood are highly contaminated. As the floodwater surges through the town, it picks up all kinds of biohazards. These can include everything from bacteria to chemical waste. The level of the water and the degree of contamination is determined, and the technicians are then able to be appropriately prepared.
•  Structural Damage – Absorption, and oversaturation of structural elements can lead to degradation. Wall systems, flooding supports, and subflooring is especially at risk and can lead to collapse.
•  Content Damage – Anytime there is a water intrusion, there is the danger of the content of the home being impacted. Due to the contamination of the floodwaters, extra care needs to be taken when cleaning and restoring damaged items. SERVPRO technicians are well qualified to help homeowners decide what can get salvaged and what needs to be disposed of properly. 

Preparing for Flooding – What Homeowners Should Do

Flooding can happen at any time, but coastal towns are at an even greater risk. This means homeowners should prepare before disaster strikes. Make sure your valuables such as jewelry and important documents get placed in waterproof containers. If you know a storm is coming, move items from lower levels to higher levels. Have an emergency plan in place and practice it regularly with your family. Prepare an emergency kit with items such as flashlights, batteries, and bottled water. Regularly check to ensure your storm drains and gutters are free of debris and clutter. When you are ready for the worst, it lessens the impact of flooding on you and your family.

Always Put Safety First

Always obey evacuation warnings. Let SERVPRO handle entering the floodwater to retrieve essential items. Our technicians are IICRC certified and experienced in mitigating flood damage. We can provide the cleanup, repair, and restoration needed for your home. Our goal is to leave your residence, “Like it never even happened.”

Our team lives and works in the same coastal town as our customers. We know how devastating flood damage can be to a home. That is why we are available any time of the day or night. The sooner our team gets started on the cleanup, the sooner you get your life back. 

Contact SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 for professional flood damage service. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Flood Damage in Coral Gables Homes Requires Quick Action

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Miami understands how hard storm damage can be. Feel free to reach out at any time when you need help.

Protecting a Coral Gables Home Includes Calling a Professional Flood Damage Restoration Team After a Storm

Coral Gables, the City Beautiful, lines its streets with beautiful homes and splendid trees. Each house has its history, and architectural details can be seen virtually everywhere. However, homes are vulnerable to rising water levels, backed-up sewage lines, and ceiling leaks when storms strike. If and when you discover water in your home, do not hesitate to call a professional water restoration company.

In Coral Gables, delegate flood damage restoration needs to SERVPRO. Our crew specializes in handling the toughest situations while preserving the original elements of your home as much as possible. At SERVPRO, we train with industry experts and know that being quick isn't always the answer, particularly when structures are older and boast hardwood floors and architectural details. Our focus is to work with efficiency while mitigating your loss.

SERVPRO staff is ready to answer your questions about the restoration process, and we understand the importance of getting it done right. In our work, we carefully comply with local regulations and focus on your family's safety and preserving your belongings. As necessary, we coordinate with relevant parties such as insurance representatives and sub-contractors, so the restoration process is seamless. Our clients can expect to see the following actions upon our arrival-

• A complete assessment of the damage. This may be a lengthy process, but a close inspection of all areas of your home is critical to a successful water restoration process.

• Water extraction and evaporation with the aid of pumps, extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers.

• Mold prevention through the application of anti-microbial solutions and the removal of unsalvageable items affected by stormwater.

• Specialty drying solutions to restore priceless items such as photographs and documents.

Rest assured that our SERVPRO of South Miami team is here to provide the latest water restoration technology. Call us at (305) 269-8900, and let us work hard to meet your water restoration needs.

Miami Property Owners Can Always Benefit from SERVPRO's Professional Storm Damage Restoration Services

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your home, quick action is often necessary. Call our SERVPRO team to assess the situation and remediate any flood damage.

What Value Does Professional Flood Damage Mitigation in Miami Offer?

Floods can happen any time, even during dry seasons. The intensity of each incident varies from catastrophic to mild levels, thus leaving different extents of damages. When an incident only affects your property, you might struggle in deciding whether to hire a professional to handle the mitigation process or get help from family and friends. Knowing what value mitigation of flood damage by a professional can offer makes it easier to decide.

Preventing Future Problems

Although the focus after flood damage in your Miami home might be how to solve immediate problems such as cleaning up the filth and drying the premises, you must also pay attention to problems that might develop in future that tie back to the flooding incident. Mold development and deterioration of structural parts are common long-term problems. Professionals address both current and long-term issues concurrently when restoring your property. For instance, our SERVPRO technicians apply cleaning agents with antimicrobial properties and use advanced equipment to check for hidden pockets of moisture, thus minimizing chances of mold development.

Working Faster

Restoring a flood-damaged property is a tedious process. Even though family and friends might provide an abundant workforce to carry out the process, the lack of equipment and skills can hamper progress.  Professional restorers undergo regular training, and the frequency of handling similar incidents equips them with the necessary experience to work faster. Our technicians earn IICRC acknowledgement in best practices from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Professionals also have a reputation to uphold and a payday to look forward to, which motivates them further to work faster.

Water Damage Restoration

A flooding incident has the potential to change the outlook of your home forever. Water can alter the visual appeal of your walls because drywall discolors from wetness. Materials such as floorboards might also cup or buckle from water exposure forcing you to change them or opt for a different floor type. With professional assistance, it is possible to restore your home to its previous state, under most circumstances. Our SERVPRO technicians follow different procedures to ensure we achieve the intended goal. We take photos of the damaged site before starting the restoration, which provides a reference point if needed. We also match the color of new panels to existing ones in areas that we demolish for restoration purposes. We also use advanced methods such as drying chambers to save wooden floors along with drying mats and an injectidry delivery system.

A flood-damage restoration exercise should solve all problems and offer value for money. Call SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900. We fix flooding fast, "Like it never even happened."

How Can One Get Help After Flood Damage in a South Miami Home?

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

When flooding affects your home, remediation services are a necessity. Contact our certified SERVPRO team 24/7 for flood damage remediation services.

SERVPRO Can Assist by Delivering Water Removal Services and General Remediation of Damaged Properties

Storms are highly destructive since they combine different forces, including gale-force winds and heavy precipitation sustained over several hours. Since the problem affects many South Miami properties, simultaneously leaving inundated houses, ripped awnings, smashed windows, and even felled trees, you may not know what to do or whom to ask for help when your home is affected.

The flood damage left in South Miami properties can fall in different categories ranging from soiling to contamination to structural ruin. Each class of damage has its complexities ranging from tediousness to technical difficulties. SERVPRO professionals can help address or guide the homeowner on the best course of action based on the type of damage.   

Restoration after flooding may also involve some unexpected processes like:

• Biohazard remediation
• Sewage cleanup
• Rodent clean up services

One often overlooked step is the prevention of additional damages at the loss site. The initial effects of flooding can worsen if nothing is done. Additional issues can stem from the proliferation of microbes and exposure of materials to high moisture levels. Although it might seem like there are no options, professionals can find ways to help. For instance, SERVPRO technicians can help pack out contents to protect them from moisture exposure. We also spray EPA-registered disinfectants into the floodwater, inundating the house, limiting the contamination levels.

Leaking roofs from storms and the need for ceiling repairs from water damages are common outcomes after storm incidents. Such jobs require time and proper planning to guarantee the right outcomes. Our SERVPRO technicians can help install roof tarps to protect the structure until proper repairs can be done.

SERVPRO of South Miami provides customized flood damage management, resolving any problem, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (305) 269-8900.

What Challenges Does Storm Surge Flood Damage Cause in South Miami?

8/15/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding can bring in debris and contaminants to your home. Call Team SERVPRO for flood damage remediation services.

SERVPRO Professionals Prepare to Adapt South Miami Emergency Services When Water Damage Includes Significant Quantities of Seawater

Flood damage in South Miami frequently occurs because of extreme weather, including tropical storm systems and hurricanes. The swirl of fierce winds blowing across the ocean produces a similar vertical seawater circulation that pushes up and over landmasses when it reaches the coast. Inevitably this sea surge intrudes into properties, exacerbating the overland flood damage from torrential rains.

Can Saltwater Inflict Severe Damage to South Miami Dwellings?

Although relatively pure water is incredibly corrosive and capable of causing significant water damage to South Miami dwellings, a few hours for microorganisms to grow and the addition of saltwater risks make intervention by our SERVPRO crews necessary for safety and efficacy. The water damage intensification related to the high salinity of sea surge includes:

• Weakening and eventual breakdown of concrete, stone, plaster, and brick

• Rusting of metal structural supports and fasteners

• Delignification of wood, which destroys the commonplace building material's cell structure 
• A sharp increase in conductivity leads to shocks or even electrocution, fire risks, and home electronics ruin.

Note:  Exposure of wiring to saltwater deep within your South Miami home can result in sparking and attendant flame ignition far into the future.

Do SERVPRO Water Damage Remediation Strategies Eliminate Increased Salinity Hazards During Water Removal Services?

Our SERVPRO Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRT) adhere to the best practices protocol learned at the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Additional steps rid your home of excess salt residue risks to safety and structures:

• Project managers assess and limit your home's power provision during equipment use.

• Technicians institute freshwater flushing as part of pumping, extraction, and contaminated water disposal phases.

• Crews are alert to salty residues when cleaning, adapting techniques when salinity rises.

One call to SERVPRO of South Miami brings trained and capable crews to your rescue after storm-related flood damage. Dial (305) 269-8900 for flood restoration and saltwater remediation.

How Long Does it Take to Pump Flood Water Out?

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

Standing water from a flood is no easy task. SERVPRO has the man power and equipment for any size flood damage restoration project.

SERVPRO Uses Advanced Equipment and Methods to Extract Flood Waters from your Coral Gables Home.

Standing water in the home, which is commonly associated with flood events, can cause significant harm. An exceptional amount of stress and pressure is exerted upon a building's structure by water weight. Furthermore, the migration of water into cavities or beneath floorboards can complicate the drying process. 

The primary approach to flood water extraction for your Coral Gables home is to assess the type of water content and contamination levels. SERVPRO technicians rely on many kinds of extraction tools dependent on the unique conditions of the flooded property. Sometimes larger, truck-mounted extractors are the most efficient. At other times, a restricted access space may necessitate portable extractors. 

• Portable extractors typically have a five to twelve-gallon storage tank with 140 inches of water lift capacity.
• Truck Mounted Extractors can have storage tanks over one hundred gallons with a lift capacity of at least 185.71 inches.
• Both extractors can be fitted with extraction tools such as extraction wands or additional weighting.

Reduce standing water in your home quickly to mitigate losses. Contact SERVPRO of South Miami for flood water extraction at (305) 269-8900.

Are Coastal Cities at Higher Risk of Flooding?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage restoration is no DIY project. Call the professionals at SERVPRO for the service needed for your home.

SERVPRO is Here to Help Miami Residents Restore their Homes after a Flooding Event

The City of Miami overlooks the East Coast of the United States. Considered an economic powerhouse, the city has a population of some 454,279 permanent residents but is part of a broader economic area encompassing several million. Culturally, Miami is synonymous with Florida and is a national leader for finance, technology, science, education, and commercial industries. Miami has a vital Latin American demographic and one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. 

Initially, the area of Florida in which Miami was incorporated was discovered by Spanish Colonialists in 1566. While Britain and Spain had claimed ownership over the place, it was not formally declared a US territory until as late as 1821. The city has had a crucial role in American history during the Seminole wars and during World War Two, where the southeastern coast was a prime setting off point for Europe. The population increases in the area have been mainly attributed to Miami's reputation as one of the world's cultural capitals. 

• Miami Beach is a resort city that exists on a fusion of artificial and natural barriers. The neighborhood incorporates some of the most sought-after areas within Miami, including the South Beach, Miami Port, and Downtown districts. The combination of these districts forms the commercial center of Florida State and the backbone of its famous nightlife, culture, and tourism.
• Little Havana is a neighborhood within Miami that pays homage to its strong Latin American roots. During the civil war in Cuba, hundreds of wealthy Cubans relocated to Miami, bringing with them much of the culture that has become synonymous with the city and Florida's broader state.
• The Wynwood Walls on the second avenue are a celebration of street art and were originally opened in 2009. Today, the walls are a homage to some of the best street artists around the world. The surrounding streets have also been incorporated into the Wynwood Walls, and regular tours of the murals occur throughout the year.

SERVPRO Can Perform Expert Flood Damage Restoration on the Structure and Contents of your Miami Home

Coastal areas can often be more prone to natural disasters such as tropical storms, flooding, and high winds. High volume water intrusion can damage both the exterior and interior of your home. Your belongings and furniture can equally be adversely affected by prolonged exposure to floodwaters. 

• Furniture swelling can occur as a result of the absorption of floodwaters. The frames of your furniture may become warped or broken at the joints.
• Color bleeding is one of the more common damages that are associated with a floodwater intrusion event. Bleeding dyes from furniture can stain other items such as carpets.
• Upholstery can become at risk of mold growth following a flood event. We can thoroughly dry contents to prevent excess damage.

Floods can cause extensive WATER DAMAGE to your home and belongings. Contact SERVPRO of South Miami for flood damage recovery at (305) 269-8900.

Enjoy the Best Miami Foods at the Vizcaya Village Farmers Market

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Take time away from dealing with your homes storm damage, while SERVPRO is taking care of your home repairs, visit the Vizcaya Village Farmers Market.

One Event Where You Can Taste the Artistry of Local Miami Vendors

You might take food to satiate hunger or to get the nutrition the body needs. However, eating is also a fun activity that you can partake in to enjoy the art of different preparation methods and flavors, especially when it involves fresh-made delicacies. In Miami, you can enjoy foods from local vendors and explore one of the historic farms in the area by attending the Vizcaya Village farmers market. The event happens regularly, and you can participate in the next one scheduled for December 20, 2020.

Some attractions you can enjoy at the event include:

• Freshly made delicacies including baked goods and vegan products 
• Hand-crafted goods
• A chance to explore Vizcaya’s historic farm and village

You can attend the event free at 3250 South Miami Avenue. However, the free pass does not allow entrance into the formal house or the gardens. 

SERVPRO of South Miami handles flood damage restoration in Miami residences professionally. Call us at (305) 269-8900 to assist.

Enjoy the Serenity and Calm of an Oasis In The Midst of Miami Glamour

11/26/2020 (Permalink)

Enjoy the beauty of Miami while SERVPRO teams work to remove flood damage and restore your home "Like it never even happened."

The Event Where Miami Residents Learn About Florida's Native and Exotic Flowers and Trees

Spending time at a botanical garden is a great way to unwind from the hassles of work or other stressful events. You can spend your time identifying trees, learning about flowers, sacred and rare plants. The activities and sceneries in botanical gardens vary depending on the season. During the fall, you can expect a quieter time and less greenery. The Miami Beach Botanical Garden provides an excellent opportunity to explore this for anyone visiting or living in the Magic City. You can partake in the experience each week from Thursday to Sunday.

During the events, you can enjoy:

• A two-hour self-guided audio tour of the facility 
• A peek into the Botanical Boutique & Garden Center, where you can get gift ideas or plants to purchase.
• Various spectacular features including a wetland with pond apple trees, red mangrove, and an expansive water garden with a cascading oolite fountain.

There are 3 sessions every event day, each lasting 2 hours. You can choose the most opportune entry time starting from 11 AM, 1:15 PM, or 3 PM. 

SERVPRO of South Miami helps lighten the burden homeowners face during flood water removal from Miami residences. Call us at (305) 269-8900.

South Miami Food Trucks Fridays Fiesta Tropical Park

11/17/2020 (Permalink)

Enjoy some tasty gourmet street foods in South Miami, while SERVPRO takes care of your home's storm damages. Call us for assistance at (305) 269-8900.

Meet Up With Locals As You Enjoy Gourmet Street Food in South Miami 

South Miami is known for its iconic dishes for everyday-consumption or special occasions. Some of the unique options you are bound to remember include Cuban sandwiches, Empanadas, Alligator bites, and tricked out Cuban burgers called Fritas, among many others. Sometimes, what may prevent you from indulging yourself is a lack of opportunity. The Food Trucks Fridays Fiesta held at the Tropical Park creates the best opportunity to try different foods while interacting with other people.

Some of the attractions you can expect at the event include:

• A variety of food trucks including Mexican, American, Italian, Mediterranean, Kosher, seafood, and many others guaranteeing something exciting for your taste buds
• Various activities for kids and adults, including bounce houses, music, and other activities
• Plenty of parking spaces at no cost

If planning to attend the event, you can arrive at any time between 5 PM and 10 PM. You should also bring blankets to keep warm and chairs.  

SERVPRO of South Miami manages any challenges posed by tropical storm damage incidents in South Miami. You can reach us at (305) 269-8900 for assistance.

Why Is Hiring A Local Flooding Mitigation and Remediation Company Essential in Miami?

6/8/2020 (Permalink)

It's hurricane season. Are you prepared for the storm season ahead?

Hurricane Flood Damage Is Devastating to Miami Residents Short and Long Term; SERVPRO Stands with You Today and in the Future 

In the turbulent time after a hurricane, opportunistic contractors can fan across an affected area of Miami. Promises of fast and affordable help for the severe damage at a vulnerable time can usually place cautious homeowners with a problem. It does not seem possible that local firms could handle all of the devastations that you and so many of your neighbors might be experiencing. Hiring an itinerant disaster consultant can feel like the only answer. 

What Are the Top Reasons for Hiring Local Hurricane Flood Recovery Contractors? 

When a hurricane or tropical storm strikes, flood damage follows at your Miami home. You know the dangers of waiting to respond to the emergency, so when a friendly-looking face approaches in the immediate aftermath, you might jump at the chance to grab help where you can. Resist, because your home needs reliable, reputable, and local services. Why? Consider the following: 

Here Today -- Following the Storms Tomorrow 

When you hire a local contractor like SERVPRO, you can visit our offices or call for a consult not just in the days after a significant storm, but anytime for weeks, months, and years. Severe flood and other damage in the wake of a hurricane presents a complex scenario. You want to have the ability to talk with the company that helped get your home back to preloss condition if unexpected problems crop up have a question of any kind. Contractors without a home base in your community are likely to be unresponsive after they wrap up their work if you can find them. 

Establishing Competence and Reliability 

Hiring a company that travels with the storms makes it nearly impossible for you to obtain any useful information on their track record, training, experience, and ethics. You cannot follow up on references from friends, coworkers, and family, as you usually do for significant purchases. When you are not feeling so rushed, you probably will pass up this type of hire. Although you do need to take fast action, acting in haste to engage an unknown contractor can result in you repenting later, without any effective form of relief, other than having the job redone by another firm.  

Honesty and Integrity 

One thing you might not consider when negotiating with a non-local company is that the salesperson pressuring you to sign with a company immediately is not the person or crew who shows up to do the work. Customer satisfaction also might not be high on the list for these contractors because they have no ties to our city. Lining up jobs for the latest storm in Miami is their driving force, not serving a community devastated by the damage. Our impetus is operating as a professional industry leader during this devastation in our region. We act in an honest and forthright way as we explain what we believe you need and how we can deliver on those tasks. 

Knowledge of Legal Requirements and Local Opportunities and Constraints 

Our assessors and project managers are certified and licensed to do work in our community. We are familiar with the framework of permits, the availability of materials, the building codes, reasonable area pricing, and can be at your side if municipal officials have questions or concerns about both the damage and our efforts to mitigate and remediate the harm now and into the future. As the homeowner, you navigate these pathways solo when the non-local company and crew move out. 

Where Can You Find Scalable Resources?  

We understand your fear when your entire neighborhood shows signs of flood and storm damage. Our SERVPRO team wants to reassure you that we might be local. We also have access to a nationwide network of Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained flood damage restoration crews and the equipment necessary to help an entire area recover from a hurricane or other catastrophic storm loss. You can access an overarching system of highly qualified resources while working directly with our in-town managers and office.  

Have Other Questions? We Are Here with Answers Every Day 

Take the time before a hurricane or other substantial storm activity hits to talk to us about what we offer to our home community residents. Knowing who to call at a desperate time helps you avoid deciding on a flood damage restoration company that you might regret. 

SERVPRO of South Miami knows how to help with every aspect of storm-related flood damage for our community. Call us at (305) 269-8900 to engage our services, a company that stands behind the phase “Like it never even happened,” 24/7 now and tomorrow.

How Can I Stay Safe From Waterborne Pathogens After Flood Damage in Miami?

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Flood water that makes its way into your home can contain waterborne pathogens and be dangerous for you and your family

SERVPRO Gives Tips on Managing Floodwater in Miami

Florida frequently warns travelers to be careful of waterborne pathogens in foreign climes. Residents of Miami know that waterborne pathogens are not a daily concern. After all, America has a safe water system designed to provide water suitable for drinking straight out of the faucet. However, if a flood occurs here in the United States, there is a risk of diseases carried by the floodwater, especially if it becomes contaminated with feces from overflowing sewers or sewage tanks. In the event of flood damage, SERVPRO recommends being cautious about waterborne illnesses – it is better to be safe than sorry.  

After flood damage to your Miami home, stay alert to the risk of water carrying diseases. Water carries pathogens that lead to severe sicknesses such as cholera, dysentery, Legionnaire's disease, and hepatitis A. However, some simple precautions help keep you safe.  

Be careful of open wounds or rashes, as open lesions on the skin might become infected. Keep any cuts, scrapes, or rashes clean and covered at all times to reduce the risk of infections. If possible, keep your whole body protected from floodwater using coveralls, waterproof clothing, and rubber gloves whenever you encounter the floodwater. Never walk barefoot.  

Soft furnishings in your home are not safe to keep. We do not recommend trying to salvage anything that is dampened or soaked by floodwater. Discard any wet carpets, drapes, and soft furnishings such as couches, chairs, mattresses, and bedding. Hard surfaces need to be thoroughly scrubbed and disinfected. It is a good idea to call SERVPRO for assistance – we have the know-how and equipment to remove hard surfaces safely.  

Be extremely cautious with what you eat after a flood. Canned food is safe to eat, but any fresh or packaged food that comes in contact with floodwater needs discarding.  

Use only bottled or boiled water for bathing, brushing your teeth, and drinking (bottled is better) until you are confident the supply is safe. Always follow advice from official channels.  

For help with flood cleanup in Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, and the surrounding area, call SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 today. 

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Are There Strategies Homeowners Can Take to Minimize Storm Damage in Coconut Grove?

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Having a well stocked First-Aid kit is crucial during a storm for your health. To restore your home, call SERVPRO quickly after the storm!

SERVPRO Addresses Precautions to Protect Your Family and Your Property from Storm Damage in Coconut Grove 

With tropical storm season in full swing, it is essential to prepare yourself for what potentially lies ahead. From making sure your home can withstand the weather to knowing the best evacuation routes, here is a quick look at how to prepare for tropical storm damage in Coconut Grove. After all, preparation is the best form of protection. 

• Be sure your home is well protected, which includes everything from ensuring there are no loose shingles on the roof to removing everything from your yard that can become a projectile. Also, secure your doors to prevent them from flying open, while also reinforcing your windows, doors, and garage doors.
• Determine the best possible evacuation routes. Before a tropical storm hits, local governments usually provide plenty of information about evacuation plans. If possible, test the evacuation route during a safe period to ensure there are no potential problems.
• Ensure you have all the necessary supplies. If you wait until the last minute, it can be almost impossible to get everything you need. Create a kit that includes plenty of water and non-perishable food, clothing, blankets, flashlight and batteries, a first-aid kit, and a whistle to signal for help. If you take prescription medication, be sure you include this in your kit.
• Verify that your home insurance policy is up to date. You must have your home insured against flooding and flood damage. (This is not part of standard homeowners or renters insurance policy.)
• Take time to back up your electronics, which is especially crucial if you use your computer to conduct business. Be sure to store all data in an off-site location that you can still access even if the storm destroys the actual device.
• Create an inventory of your possessions. After a storm hits, trying to remember everything you once had can be almost impossible. Beforehand, use a video camera (if possible) to document your valuables. Also, keep receipts. Should you have no desire to keep a bunch of papers, scan the receipts and store them in an off-site location. 

5 Top Tips for Staying Safe in A Coconut Grove Hurricane 

Surviving the awe-inspiring power of a Coconut Grove hurricane comes down to preparation. The good news is hurricanes don't just pop up out of nowhere. Typically, there is a 24-hour warning or more of impending severe weather in which to finish final preparations. The keyword here is "final." You can accomplish much of the preparation before a hurricane is bearing down on the area. 

1. . Prepare emergency supplies.

An emergency kit should include non-perishable food and bottled water for up to seven days. First Responders cannot access the area immediately. Be sure to include additional water for general use in that time frame, such as cooking. Include a First Aid kit, flashlights, an emergency radio, and plenty of spare batteries for these devices. Fill gas in vehicles in case evacuation orders come through. Be sure to take essential documents if the area needs to evacuate. 

2. Secure loose items and property.

With winds ranging from 75-200 mph, loose objects become deadly projectiles in hurricanes. Move loose items like lawn furniture and outdoor toys indoors. Plywood over windows can help prevent wind and projectile damage while the hurricane winds blow. Consider moving electronics and other valuable items to higher elevations in case the area floods. 

3. Turn off utilities at the shut-off valve.

Turn off electricity, water, and gas lines if possible. A damaged gas line can easily result in an explosion if introducing an ignition source. 

4. Pre-plan an evacuation route.

Do not wait until the last minute to decide how to exit the area. Hurricanes may not travel in a predictable line once they make landfall. It is not uncommon for them to curve once over dry land. Do not assume the availability of nearby hotels. No vacancies can exist even hundreds of miles away. Call ahead, attempt to make reservations. Ensure they accept pets if applicable. Be prepared to drive hours away. 

5. Monitor National Weather Service broadcasts.

The NWS is the best source of information about pending Coconut Grove storms and hurricanes. They can provide information on storm strength, recent developments, and evacuation orders. A community put under a hurricane watch may see activity within 36 hours of the announcement. The NWS can give regular updates on what actions need taking.

Why Choose SERVPRO of South Miami? 

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster 

When a storm hits your Coconut Grove home or business, you need help immediately. Our quick response helps prevent secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs. 

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We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists 

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of South Miami has the specialized training and expertise to restore your home to its pre-storm condition. Our restoration process emphasizes scientific drying techniques, progress monitoring, and documentation. 

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians 

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We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters 

We can access the resources and personnel of 1,650 Franchises to handle major storms and disasters. We also have access to special Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located throughout the country to respond to catastrophic storms and events. 

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SERVPRO of South Miami has the equipment and training to restore your home. We are available 24/7 to respond to your emergency. Call (305) 269-8900. 

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Why is it Important to Quickly Remove Flood Water in Miami?

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

Did your home experience flood damage? Cal us! We have the equipment to handle flood damage of any scope.

Fast Flood Water Removal is Crucial in Lessening Loss to Miami Homes - Here's Why 

Living in Florida has its perks, with the sunshine and warm weather, but it comes with the knowledge that hurricanes and intense storms can bring copious amounts of water resulting in flood damage.  

The critical element to lessening the loss from large amounts of water is fast flood removal in Miami homes. That is why SERVPRO techs are available 24/7 to perform damage cleanup and restoration functions for local property owners. 

What is the Difference? 

One of the differences between a professional water removal and a DIY effort is the amount of water that can get extracted. Consumer-grade wet-dry vacs do not have the pulling power of the equipment that SERVPRO techs utilize. Including truck-mounted units for large-scale removals that include debris, mud, and trash.  

Why is Speed of Water Removal Important? 

If the water recedes or gets extracted rapidly, the tile may not delaminate, or the subfloor may not require controlled demo removal. The less exposure time that building materials, sheetrock, and flooring have to floodwater, the more chance for restoration. 

How Does Controlled Demolition Work? 

When homeowners hear the phrase "controlled demo needed," it can sound like the entire house needs demolishing. However, this refers to an action that only removes damaged portions of walls, floors, and other building materials as a loss and to open those areas for complete drying.  

On-Site Safety 

Containment is another essential element for safe cleanup of flood loss. Airborne particles have the potential to contain bacteria and pathogens; these can enter the body via the nose, mouth, or eyes. SERVPRO technicians wear head to toe protective gear, including respirators and eye protection. The techs test the water to determine the nature of any contaminants present so the appropriate treatments can get applied during cleanup to disinfect the property and ready it for habitation.

SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 stands ready 24/7 for any size flood removal in local properties. The certified techs have the skills and equipment to make the water loss in the home, "Like it never even happened." 

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What Do You Do After Storm Damage?

4/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Stormwater Removal and Restoration Services for Miami Homes and Much More--We Are Here to Help!

SERVPRO has the experience and equipment to restore your Miami home and make it safe again

This part of Florida sees its fair share of intense weather systems, including tornadoes and hurricanes. The result is that homeowners can wind up with damaged roofing that allows rain inside or other structural issues from wind and water-soaked interiors from flash floods.

What are Some of the First Actions After Storm Damage Happens?

After flash floods or other types of storm damage occur in a Miami home, one of the first things a homeowner should do is to ensure the safety of the residents in the house, including pets. Common issues after storm loss include:

• Sagging ceilings from water damage
• Water wicked into sheetrock
• Floodwater tainted with sewage or chemicals
• Slip and fall accidents
• Damaged roofing and windows

What Actions Do SERVPRO Techs Perform Against Storm Loss?

When the certified technicians arrive on-site to clean up the water damage in a Miami home, they perform multiple tasks to assist in securing the property as needed, including temporary repairs. High winds can leave behind a roof that leaks. The techs have experience in doing putting up a tarp and other interim measures to inhibit any further water damage within the home.

Scoping the property is also vital. Much of the water that entered the property during a flash flood can also recede rapidly. The issue is the water that gets left behind and runs behind baseboards and wicks within the sheetrock. At a glance, it is difficult to determine the exact migration path for water solely through visual inspection. That is why the technicians use multiple types of water detection equipment to ensure that water loss in the home gets wholly addressed.

What is the Best Way to Remove Floodwater from My Home?

When the water in your Miami home is the result of a roof leak or a window break and is not groundwater, you can use towels to blot and mop up as much as you can before the arrival of SERVPRO. Wet/dry vacuums are also useful but generally do not have the pulling power to extract embedded moisture or assist when water seeps into the subfloor.

If groundwater is the culprit in your home, you need to steer clear of coming into contact with the water until SERVPRO techs arrive. It is fine to put down towels or rags to blot up water but do not come into contact with it. The techs can test the water and determine the nature of any contaminants and choose the proper methods of disinfection. If there are sewage or harmful elements present, putting up containment to prevent airborne water vapor from spreading to other areas of the home is a common tactic.

Water Type and Age Counts Towards Loss

The moment the water entered the home via rain or groundwater, it began to age. The longer structural elements of the house have exposure to moisture, the more damage that occurs.

• Paint on walls can blister and bubble
• Tile and glue-down carpet can delaminate
• Sheetrock may show signs of buckling
• Hardwood floorboards can warp and cup
• Anything saturated by groundwater requires disposal as a biohazard
• After 48 hours even rainwater gets handled as a black water event

Strong Water Removal Methods Play a Key Role

SERVPRO techs bring all the equipment necessary for water loss mitigation in their green service vans. This includes generators in case the power is out from intense storms or turned off due to the potential for water to come into contact with electrical outlets.

They use a wide range of extraction equipment, depending on the amount and depth of the water they need to remove. Each Miami home water removal is different, and while one job needs multiple portable pumps, another may require the extreme pumping services of a truck-mounted unit; this is particularly useful after a hurricane or storm surge situation.

Controlled Demolition is a Large Part of Storm Damage Cleanup

If the techs find water wicked into sheetrock, if the sheetrock has drying potential, they can drill weep holes and dry the area. More often, a tactic known as flood cuts gets applied. The techs measure above the highest waterline and cut away the damaged portion. This opens up the walls and framework for complete extraction and drying.

Carpet that absorbed groundwater or water that degraded over 48 hours is generally a loss and requires removal and disposal as a biohazard. Hardwood flooring may have restoration potential on a case by case basis depending on the length of water exposure and construction materials used for the floorboards.

When storm damage happens, call SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900, the certified technicians are available 24/7 to restore your home to its preloss condition.

Some Ways to Avoid Storm Damage in Miami

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure that you have a plan in place to keep your family safe in case of a storm. Then call SERVPRO to plan for any emergencies to your home.

Preparing for Hurricane Season in South Miami

Hurricane season begins in June, but long before that, South Miami residents should be thinking about what they can do to prepare. In recent years, some of the most destructive storms in the past few decades have made landfall here in southern Florida and along the east coast, which has made many realize that their properties are not as stormproof as they might have originally believed. Instead of waiting until you are in the middle of insurmountable damages and flooding that can result from structural collapses, take some time to assess how you can better prepare for inevitable harsh summer weather to come.

Before you find yourself contending with storm and flood damage in South Miami condos and homes, there are steps that you can take so you are not caught off-guard by destructive weather.

Insurance 

One of the first ways that you can prepare for hurricane season is to find out what insurance coverage you have and determine what options are available for your property. It only takes one terrible storm to cause substantial damages to a residence, and without insurance to cover it, those expenses could come out of your pocket.

Emergency READY Profile Plan

Our SERVPRO team is always eager and anxious to help residents and business owners designate a plan for emergency response. When disasters strike, designating our team to help and pre-listing the locations of vital shutoffs and other pertinent information saves time and money.

Property Inspections 

Another service that our SERVPRO team can offer is pre-disaster home assessments. When you worry about the strength and age of your roof, for example, our in-house residential contractors can evaluate these structural elements and determine how to reinforce them or when they might need to be replaced entirely. This construction is work that our contractors can do before roofs, and other construction materials, succumb to the fierce forces of hurricanes.

Despite residents understanding the threat of harsh weather conditions every year, so many properties are still caught unaware by the severity of these passing storm systems. Give our SERVPRO of South Miami team a call to help you prepare or recover at (305) 269-8900.

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We Are Available 24/7 For Your Miami Home After A Flood

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

Drying mats placed on hardwood boards in a South Miami kitchen can prevent the need to replace this costly flooring.

Storm Damage Can Flood a Miami High Rise Quickly

Miami and the other communities that exist along the southern coastline of Florida remain perpetually at risk of powerful storm systems moving through the region. While many of the structures have become reinforced in their construction to withstand some of these more devastating conditions, this is rarely (if ever) a full-proof solution. After Hurricane Andrew, the Dade County Constructions Code changes have further fortified new and reconstructed buildings. Destructive storms can have a catastrophic effect on your high-rise apartment building, especially when you consider how many units can become affected by this unexpected disaster.

From broken windows to a destroyed portion of the roof, storm flood damage in Miami high rises is more probable than you might have thought. Our SERVPRO team has helped in multiple large loss projects that can help to infuse our experience and commercial-grade equipment into real-time solutions for your property. Because of standing water being an issue with flood damage, the team becomes limited by our potential extraction equipment. Not all of our powerful water extraction tools can get implemented within these apartments, so we must determine what can work provided the situation

We strive to provide our customers with the ideal service that they have come to expect, and most of that success hinges on adapting to changing situations. High rises have limited space, so our SERVPRO technicians utilize tools to remove standing water in any one apartment without entering another without reason. In these situations, you can expect only a handful of equipment options exist and are difficult to get to the flood damaged portion of the property on a specific floor.

Sump pumps are ideal for standing water situations that exceed two inches in depth. Depending on the type of disaster our professionals address, we can often discharge water into an available drain, and the mobility of the unit helps to overcome flooding in multiple areas of the house. This water removal action can also help in below building parking areas. Wands can also help in these situations, especially when the depth of standing water is lower than the recommended volume to use the sump pumps.

We cannot anticipate the destruction that powerful storm systems can have for your coastal home. No matter what time disasters strike or how severe the situation, we have a rapid response team ready to mobilize as soon as you call. You can reach our experienced SERVPRO of South Miami technicians anytime at (305) 269-8900.

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How Flood Cuts Help with Residential Miami Water Damages

8/25/2019 (Permalink)

Count on us for your Miami water damage, we will always be there.

Let SERVPRO expose you to the right ways in Miami.

Many practices play a significant role in maintaining a smaller and more manageable recovery of flood-damaged Miami homes. As a premier restoration team in the area, we strive to provide our customers with a tailored experience that precisely suits the needs of their home and seeks to reduce unnecessary tear-out and reconstruction whenever possible. An effective way to accomplish this while still addressing widespread floodwater is through flood cuts made into the drywall and paneling on your property.

Flood damage in Miami homes can be devastating without specific measures and techniques deployed immediately by our SERVPRO professionals. We have a crew of Water Restoration Technicians (WRT) and those trained in Applied Structural Drying (ASD) to begin combatting the standing water in your property beginning as soon as we arrive. Our professionals reach your address with the full measure of our cutting-edge extraction and rapid drying equipment, helping us to address saturation and exposure concerns starting immediately upon completion of the damage assessment.

Certain practices help to make these extractions and drying efforts more effective and efficient, and flood cuts are one of them. This process begins with an assessment of saturation in construction materials like the drywall to determine how much moisture has become wicked from the base of the wall. Depending on the severity of the situation, more than half of the lower portion of the wall can become damaged by moisture. Hygrometers and probing moisture detection devices help to identify the dryline. Everything below this line gets carefully cut out and removed to allow our SERVPRO professionals access to the wall cavities beyond.

With the flood cuts already made, we can employ effective extraction practices like our portable sump pumps and engine-driven trash pumps to quickly remove standing water in these areas of the property. Once removal and drying complete in these areas, which gets double-checked with the same moisture detection devices, we can prepare the area for reconstruction.

While there are many steps between the flooding disaster and the full recovery of your home, our SERVPRO of South Miami team can help you every step of the way. We have a full crew of qualified technicians endorsed through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) prepared to help 24/7. Give us a call anytime disasters strike at (305) 269-8900.

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The Benefits of a Pack-Out after Storm Surge Flood Damage in Miami

6/28/2019 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO focus on the damage… while you focus on getting back to the precious moments.

SERVPRO will take on the burden.

Miami residents are vigilant about flooding risks posed by rising sea levels combined with seasonal storm activity. Not only are the structural components of a dwelling exposed to the devastation heavy rains, overland runoff, and storm surge inflict, fixtures and contents also can suffer significant damage. As restoration industry leaders in the region, we use a secure and reliable protocol to move household goods, furnishings, and personal possessions from flooded homes to safe and climate-controlled spaces for evaluation and treatment during restoration.

Flood damage in Miami is complicated by the possibility of salt water contamination. Non-coastal areas experiencing flooding contend with chemicals, pathogens from human and animal waste, mud, and other hazardous substances mixed with excessive rain or overflow from waterways. Salt water absorbed home contents increases the destructive nature of flood water. Our team is familiar with saltwater incursion and skilled in strategies to remove salt and other corrosive or dangerous contaminants from your possessions.

SERVPRO employs the Contents Claim Inventory System (CCIS) to document and track the articles we move from your flooded home. Traditional check-off lists join digital options including photos and barcoding, to ensure security. As our specially trained production facility technicians examine each item, we note the condition, devise a restoration plan, and document the results.

Our SERVPRO team members attend rigorous training courses sponsored by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), an international standards development organization. Rest assured that the products and methods we use to remove salt and other contaminants from items as diverse as your living room furniture to books and pictures to a child’s favorite stuffed animals or other “lovies” follow research-based best practice protocols.

Clearing the space in your home with a pack-out permits the SERVPRO technicians on site to work unimpeded, using the latest techniques to flush the salt and other contaminants out. Removing flood-soaked contents speeds the cleaning, containment, extraction, disinfection, and drying phases of remediating your residence. The packed-out items get the focus needed to restore them as well, avoiding expensive replacement and preserving irreplaceable memories.

SERVPRO of South Miami has your flood damage needs covered even with substantial salt water contamination. Call (305) 269-8900 to explore the best options for your flooding scenario.

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We Hold The Training Certifications Required To Restore Your Miami Home After A Flood Damage Disaster

5/30/2019 (Permalink)

The carpeting and padding were destroyed, and the subfloor was saturated with water. We pulled out the carpet and padding and discarded it properly.

Why Flood Damage in Miami Should Be Professionally Mitigated

Water damage from flooding is a situation Florida residents are not unfamiliar with. In fact, a home in the Southern part of the state is five times more likely to experience flooding than damage from fire.

Flood damage in a Miami home is one of the most severe types of residential property loss events. Groundwater has the potential to contain everything from sewage, debris, and contaminants, which is why it carries a rating of a category three biohazard. When it infiltrates the interior of your home, it should be cleaned up by professionals to ensure your home is sanitary for healthy habitation.

Recently, we mitigated damage left behind by a flash flood that affected the back entryway and kitchen. The homeowner cleaned as much as he could with his wet/dry vac before our arrival, but he quickly realized that would not be enough and called us. SERVPRO technicians removed the table and chairs for drying and cleaning in another location and used portable extractors to remove residual water.

The water wicked into the sheetrock a few inches, so we employed a technique known as "flood cuts.” We measured about six inches above the waterline and cut away the unrestorable sheetrock, so the wall cavity gets maximum air flow to dry faster. Fortunately, our probes showed no migration to the subflooring.

Once we extracted as much water as possible and scoped the room to determine where excess areas of moisture remained, we began the drying phase. SERVPRO technicians hold many certifications in the restoration sciences such as Applied Structural Drying. We know air movers play a crucial role in drying, because of the wind-velocity they can achieve.

During drying, the highspeed air flowing over surfaces causes embedded water vapor to rise where a dehumidifier captures it. Progressively drier air blows and water loss areas dry more quickly. After drying, we completely cleaned and sanitized the affected areas and ensured they were disinfected and ready for the family to enjoy their home again.

SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 knows large or small, flood damage can feel overwhelming to deal with. Our emergency response team is available 24/7 and we arrive within hours because We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.

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South Miami Homeowners Gain Protection from Contaminated Floodwaters with SERVPRO on the Job

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

South Miami Home and Building Owners Benefit from Professional Floodwater Removal by SERVPRO

Unmitigated Flood Damage Can Take Over Your South Miami Home

Bad weather can push stormwater into your South Miami home and saturate its interior. While water that flows from a broken pipe inside the structure of your property is considered clean and holds little risk, once water passes across the ground, the number of pathogens and unknown chemicals it contains significantly increases.
 
Because of the risks posed to residents in South Miami, flood damage requires professional mitigation experts. SERVPRO's specialists know how to keep your home's losses from spreading and how to get things back “Like it never even happened.” Responding quickly to your emergency helps us keep your overall costs as low as possible, reduces the amount of work needed, prevents many of your possessions from becoming damaged, and protects your family from experiencing unwanted health effects caused by contact with contaminated floodwater.
 
As long as no efforts begin to remove the flooding away from the property, it spreads out and harms other areas and the contents within those places. To stop the spread of water from traveling to different areas, our experienced team uses containment methods that block off damaged areas from other sites and extraction machinery. Continuous drying of your house keeps undamaged contents safe.
 
Making everything safe again requires extensive disinfecting of flood-damaged areas and belongings. We use industry-leading formulas that leave little or no residue, does not cause most materials to bleed or lose color, and works rapidly. Some of your items require a light misting with this, allowing us to wet the surface thoroughly, while others require an immersion. The surfaces of intact items in your home, such as door frame and other durable items come clean again with a thorough wipe-down.
 
Regular communication with you, as well as efficient handling of the job's details, holds your overall restoration costs down when it comes to flood damage mitigation. Because we disinfect the surfaces of your home as soon as we begin the job, your family should not come in contact with flood-borne microbes that might cause unwanted health effects. Our use of moisture detection equipment and monitoring systems prevents over-drying and the possibility of missing sections that need our attention.
 
SERVPRO of South Miami wants to help your family recover quickly after flood damage affects your Key Biscayne, Coconut Grove, or Hollywood property. Contact us by calling our 24-hour service line, (305) 269-8900.

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Do You Need Flood Insurance for Your Miami Home?

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Storms happen in Miami. Verify your flood insurance coverage and call SERVPRO when unwanted water enters your home.

Staying On Top of Insurance for Flood Damage in Miami

In many parts of the country, including Miami, flood damage is one of the leading causes of financial hardship among homeowners. The key to overcoming financial trouble after a storm is first to have a robust insurance policy, but even those with homeowners’ insurance may not have the coverage they need to weather the storm. To control their monthly costs, many people opt out of or do not purchase flood insurance, but this can be a crucial misstep.

How Likely is a Flood?

In the Miami area, flood damage is more common than elsewhere in the nation thanks to our frequent yearly and seasonal storms. Whether or not your home sustains flood damage in a hurricane depends on the size of the storm, its direction of travel, and where your home is positioned relative to other buildings in the neighborhood. If your property lies at the end of a street or a slightly lower elevation than the surrounding area, you may be at high risk of flood damage. However, in the event of a catastrophic storm, the entire town could be flooded at once.

What Insurance Covers Flood Damage?

Home insurance covers some aspects of flood damage, such as damage from collapsed chimneys and high winds, but water removal and restoration work may require a special flood damage policy to pay off. What is and is not covered by your insurance may vary depending on your provider and contract, so be sure to get in touch with an insurance representative to learn where your coverage may be lacking.

Is it Worth the Cost?

Flood damage can cost thousands to repair, even with efficient and cost-saving professionals like SERVPRO working on the case. Floods with safety hazards may incur extra costs, as well. A slight extra premium each month can save you from footing a substantial bill the next time a hurricane comes around.

SERVPRO of South Miami is there to help should a storm ever cause significant damage to your home. For any questions or our professional services, call us at (305) 269-8900.

Did you know that Miami is the only large city that is founded by a woman?  Click here for information on Julia Tuttle.

After Hurricane Florence, SERVPRO of South Miami responded quickly to the USS North Carolina Battleship Welcome Center.

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO crew arriving at Dram Tree Boat Launch in Wilmington, NC, on September 18th. Photo courtesy of Miles Early

Experienced Commercial Storm Damage Restoration Team Arrives By Boat

The devastating winds of Hurricane Florence impacted the North Carolina coastline after days of anticipation. Hurricane Florence turned Wilmington, N.C., from a peninsula into an island. The city of Wilmington opened distribution centers for food and water shortly after the historic floods from the mighty Hurricane Florence.

The USS North Carolina Battleship Welcome Center suffered catastrophic damage to over 60% of the roof and exposed the interior spaces to torrential rains throughout the majority of the storm. The Chairman of the Battleship Commission (Mr. Chris Boney) contacted SERVPRO executives as soon as he became aware of the roof damage to the visitor center. SERVPRO immediately mobilized a team from South Florida lead by Miles Early (franchise owner) and Robby Buys (project manager) to quickly assess the situation and get crews and dehumidification equipment onsite to limit damages.

Our SERVPRO team made it as far north as Bolivia, NC, when flooded and impassible roads stopped us. Fully aware of the importance of the Battleship Memorial to the people of North Carolina, the team made the decision not to wait for roads to open, but rather to hire a charter boat and obtain Coast Guard approval to travel 30 miles up the Cape Fear River from Southport.

On September 18th, the SERVPRO of South Miami crew arrived at a public boat ramp adjacent to the Battleship with enough equipment and people to begin vital remediation efforts. Battleship staff transported the team and their equipment to the ship. SERVPRO’s quick and determined response to the Battleship, along with the valiant efforts of the Battleship Maintenance Staff, saved tens of thousands of dollars in damages and enabled the Battleship to recover from a devastating hurricane quickly.

Storms and inclement weather can be devastating to any business. Heavy rain, wind damage, and flooding can cause substantial damage in just a few minutes. SERVPRO of South Miami has the training, equipment, and experience to handle large commercial water or storm damage emergencies. Our team can respond quickly to manage the restoration project through to its completion.

SERVPRO of South Miami Responds to Hurricane Florence Damage in North Carolina

9/28/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Miami assists with the cleanup and recovery of the U.S.S. North Carolina Battleship Welcome Center after Hurricane Florence.

U.S.S. North Carolina Battleship Welcome Center Damaged by Hurricane Florence. SERVPRO is here to help!

With Hurricane Florence dissipated, North Carolina struggles to recover from the immense damage that the severe weather caused. With record-breaking flooding throughout coastal communities, families and businesses have become displaced and in dire need of professional restoration practices to bring their properties back to their preloss conditions.

One of the locations that suffered considerable damage in coastal North Carolina was the welcome center for the U.S.S. North Carolina battleship. This 13,000 square foot structure suffered significant roof damage, which allowed the runoff and torrential rainfall from Hurricane Florence to enter the building and flood it entirely. Our professionals had to act quickly to preserve what structural components they could and to lessen the possibilities of secondary effects like mold growth.

Our SERVPRO franchise has always sought to help those when they need it most, and that reach extends through our National Recovery team. This select group of our experienced technicians helps to provide our expertise and equipment to disasters that far exceed the limitations of the local restoration companies serving that community or region. Our commitment to providing help to this ravaged area could not even wait for the flood waters to subside, and our team rented a boat to bring our equipment and personnel to the U.S.S. North Carolina Welcome Center structure.

From extraction techniques to drying the damage that the building experienced throughout the flooding, our SERVPRO of South Miami technicians still work to bring this building back to its former glory. Much like our team that still works to bring hope and restoration to a recovering North Carolina, our technicians are always ready to help you through whatever disaster you or your property might have to face. Give us a call anytime that you need our experienced professionals at (305) 269-8900.

For updated information on the battleship’s re-opening, click here.

Never Get Stressed By Flood Damage In The Crawl Space Of Your Miami Property

7/30/2018 (Permalink)

Getting the water out is among the first steps that our SERVPRO technicians perform when attending to flood damage incidents in Miami.

Flood Damage In The Crawl Space Of Your Home

Though crawl spaces are known to contain some moisture, it a different case when flood damage takes place. If the crawl space gets filled with water and you fail to address the situation as soon as possible, it can be costly and difficult to salvage your items. There are steps that professionals take to prevent mold damage and restore your Miami property.

Getting the water out is among the first steps that our SERVPRO technicians perform when attending to flood damage incidents in Miami. To do this work, we use specialized pumps and truck-mounted water extractors. We are aware of the submerged and floating debris which might be present in a crawl space, so, we use suitable methods to overcome such challenges. If necessary, we can perform minor demolitions to make the site more accessible for efficient restoration.

After removing the water-soaked debris and the standing water, it is time to dry the crawl space. By using air movers, our SERVPRO team can initiate the drying process. Since there is additional moisture which gets added to the air, we can run dehumidifiers to reduce the additional water vapor. Depending on the situation we are dealing with, we can decide to use refrigerant dehumidifiers or desiccant dehumidifiers.

Sometimes some water-sodden debris can penetrate into cracks and rot. When that happens, it is common for unpleasant smells to develop and we have to eliminate the odor-causing agents. We may deodorize the suspect areas to neutralize the odors. By using deodorants that have anti-microbial abilities, we can prevent mold growth.

The operations of our SERVPRO team are as per the IICRC regulations, and we always adhere to the local and state standards. Additionally, we use the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to stay protected during the restoration process.

SERVPRO of South Miami has highly trained technicians that use advanced equipment to deal with all commercial and residential disasters. Call us at (786) 838-4620 when you experience storm, mold, fire, and water damage disasters, and we can return your property to its earlier condition.

Click here for more about Miami.

Predictable Flood Damage In Kendall Can Still Be Devastating

7/5/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Preserves and Protects Possessions During Storm Recovery in Kendall

Preparation and Fast Action Can Mitigate Storm Damage in Kendall

Experts term the climate in Kendall as “tropical monsoon,” reflecting the warm to very hot average temperatures and marked contrast between a drier and wetter season. The warm weather months from May through October can welcome over 36 inches of rain, often in strong storms including tropical depressions and storms to hurricanes. Although residents might realize a flooding event is always possible during the monsoon months, coping with the reality of a flooding emergency in one’s home is still incredibly challenging if it happens.
 
The looming threat of flood damage in Kendall means residents must be on alert constantly. At the same time, the risk fosters the development of reliable and experienced restoration companies, owned by local business people who invest in our community. When heavy rains and winds result in flooding to your home, rely on our IICRC trained technicians and the powerful equipment and innovative products we employ to make your home “Like it never even happened.”
 
Flood damage requires fast remediation as the water often contains contaminants that can accelerate deterioration of structural components and contribute to microbial growth. SERVPRO responds 24/7 as flooding does not respect typical business hours. Our crews arrive swiftly with the skills and the equipment necessary to develop and execute a thorough flood damage remediation plan onboard our service vehicles, ready to get to work pumping and extracting the water.
 
If the storm knocked out the power, SERVPRO works undeterred, employing our truck mounted removal equipment. Water more than two inches deep pumps out, and then our crew uses wanded extractors to pull moisture out of crevices and recesses as well as attending to floors and coverings. We do not guess. Instead, we measure for moisture and scan for hidden water trapped behind walls and under floors. Failure to remove all the water exposes your home to complications like mold and progressive deterioration of vulnerable building materials like drywall, insulation, and metal.
 
Drying is a science, requiring training in psychometry, which our employees receive and review periodically. SERVPRO air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers aid in the drying as our skilled crew position the equipment in the most advantageous pattern. Water migrates out of structures and into the air if that air is maintained at the usual low level of humidity. Evaporation occurs swiftly if all the components balance and we are experts at determining the proper equilibrium.
 
If flood damage has your number during the latest storm SERVPRO of South Miami is eager to assist you in solving the equation of winds plus rain in your favor. Our phones answer round the clock at (786) 838-4620, and we look forward to joining forces with you.

More about Kendall by clicking right here.

Why A Balanced Drying System Is Necessary During Water Damage Restoration in Kendall

6/8/2018 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team can handle any water damage emergencies, no matter the scope or size.

SERVPRO Has State-Of-The-Art Equipment To Restore Your Home

Whenever there is a water damage event in your home, the first thing you naturally think of is how to dry your contents and the structure. The drying process requires specialized drying procedures, and in this post, we are looking at how the operations of different equipment make the process a success. Dehumidifiers and air movers are the most common equipment that we use when drying most water events in Kendall.

Our SERVPRO technicians understand that water damage incidents in Kendall require a balance in the setup of both the dehumidifiers and air movers. The work of the air movers is to enhance airflow on wet surfaces, and that means the way we position them is so vital. Increased airflow leads to an increased rate of evaporation which translates to higher humidity in the layer of air surrounding the wet surfaces.

On the other hand, dehumidifiers work by producing dry and warm air. For the dry air to circulate in the structure and reach the wet surfaces, air movers must be in place. To ensure we do not end up with a slower drying process, our SERVPRO technicians make sure that the number of air movers is not too little when we compare it to the number of dehumidifiers we have in position. Dehumidifiers work best when there is more moisture to extract from the surrounding air.

Setting up too many air movers compared to the number of dehumidifiers we have in operation is also not appropriate. Such a situation indicates that the rate of extracting the moisture that air movers add to the air is slower. If that occurs for a longer duration of time, further water damage is likely to happen once the moisture condenses and settles on your contents. That is why our SERVPRO technicians put in place a balanced drying system when restoring your property.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of South Miami is a trusted and proven Leader in the Restoration Industry. Call us at (305) 269-8900 when you need both commercial and residential cleaning and restoration services.

For more on Kendall, click here.

Flood Damage Technicians Based Out of Kendall

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

It is important to call SERVPRO as soon as possible after flood damage to dry out your home and minimize the damage.

Rely on the Trained Professionals at SERVPRO for Expert Flood Damage Mitigation

During violent storms, Kendall is one area that is prone to flooding. Excessive rain often leaks into your home from the outside. Sometimes wind created by the storm throws objects into your house.

If a window or exterior wall gets punctured, rain likely gets inside your structure. SERVPRO's flood damage professionals in Kendall have experience in mitigating storm-related problems. Sometimes water coming in from the outside has a high contamination level.

To start, we always test the water that got into the building to see what the contamination level is. If the rainwater has a high contamination level, then many items including building materials and contents get removed and replaced. Water with low contamination levels often gets mitigated through our specialized drying and extraction process.

To start off, all rainwater inside your home gets extracted with top-of-the-line equipment. We use different extensions to vacuum up water out of the various building materials inside your house. Our extraction equipment contains a specialized extension used to extract water out of furniture and upholstery.

Once all water gets vacuumed up, the technicians at SERVPRO begin the drying process. Air movers are set up to increase evaporation inside the affected area by replacing moist air with warm and dry air. Dehumidifiers also get placed inside the building to pull moisture from the air and pump out hot, dry air that gets used by the air movers.

In some cases, other equipment and techniques get used for drying in unique situations. We use specific equipment for drying out ceiling and wall cavities or crawl spaces. Techniques like removing baseboard and drilling holes in the drywall to pump air into a wall cavity may also get used in specific scenarios.

When a rainstorm causes damage to a house, many times the exterior walls retain moisture. Exterior walls sometimes are difficult to dry out because the insulation inside the walls restricts air flow. In which case, holes get drilled into exterior walls in the top and bottom so that air flows throughout the wall cavity.

Drying exterior walls is usually a smart idea because replacing the walls gets expensive. For professional help with structural drying, call SERVPRO of South Miami at (305) 269-8900 any time of the day, seven days a week.

More on Kendall here.

Quality Flood Damage Restoration Services Available in Miami

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

Cracks in your foundation walls, windows that stick and jammed doors are all signs of major flood damage requiring professional attention.

SERVPRO Acts Fast to Minimize the Effects of Flood Damage

Vast amounts of water cause intense flooding throughout the area nearly every year. Hurricane season has Miami homeowners on edge, expecting massive damage to a variety of things, including roads, buildings, vehicles, and more. 

Unfortunately, some Miami area homeowners may not see the full extent of flood damage on their property for several years. Due to standing or hidden water that causes additional damages to their foundation or structural components which lead to failures as time progresses. 

When flooding reaches higher levels, there is not much anyone can do to stop water from causing damage that takes its toll on your home. However, having an expertly trained SERVPRO technician inspect your home after flooding can help protect your future. 

Time is critical after a flood; you want to check for signs that could indicate problems that require professional attention. Cracks in your foundation walls, sticky windows, and jammed doors all serve as warning signs that foundation damage exists on your property. 

If water entered your home, contact a flood damage restoration specialist, like SERVPRO. Our technicians can remove wet padding, carpeting, and flooring that often lead to corrosion, rot, mold or other safety hazards, causing long-term damage.

SERVPRO can also help you prepare for future floods, giving you access to IICRC-industry certified technicians, advanced equipment, and a variety of quality restoration services you can count on to get your home back to normal after a flood. 

We help members of our local community get flood damage under control as quickly and efficiently as possible. Our technicians easily move personal possessions, furniture, and household items to a safe, dry location, where they can receive professional evaluation and restoration that helps return them to a quality pre-damage condition. 

Our team manages your restoration process from start to finish while keeping you informed throughout the process. It is our goal to meet or exceed your expectation and provide you with the answers you need to make the experience as stress-free as possible.

Contact SERVPRO of South Miami for flood damage restoration services 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. “We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster,” and offer advanced cleaning and restoration services you can trust. (305) 269-8900

More on the city of Miami here.

Mitigation Of Flood Damaged Personal Belongings In Your Miami Apartment

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

Flood damage creates more problems than just mold and mildew risks.

Mitigation Of Flood Damaged Personal Belongings

Professional restoration services work with homeowners, business owners, government agencies, and insurance adjusters on a daily basis. In Miami, we also work with people who rent their dwelling. When damaging events happen to their home or apartment, their personal belongings can also suffer harm.

Miami residents can benefit from similar flood damage restoration services, just like property owners benefit. We can perform the cleaning and restorations on-site or at our facility. If your landlord also hires us to mitigate the flood damage to your home, we can still provide you with the timely service you deserve. We train our employees to work well in a team and also to diversify their job duties. Our goal is to make everything “Like it never even happened.” for all our customers.

In addition to their customer care training, our employees also engage in training, receiving certifications from the IICRC. We understand the science behind preventing mold and mildew, and their stains, throughout your home. Flood damage creates more problems than just mold and mildew risks. Removing your belongings from the flooded areas of your home can help save them from further harm.

We also serve our customers by packing up non-damaged belongings and household items. As we do this, we list each box's inventory to streamline insurance claims and to ensure each box finds its way back to its original location in your home upon completion of the job.

Concerning your belongings suffering from the flood event, we clean these of any contaminants and promptly return them to their preloss condition. What we may have been unable to restore in the past is now possible because of significant developments in restoration science. Staining can still pose a difficult challenge, but some stains release their grip on fibers more readily than other stains. Chemical agents help us in our work.

Some chemicals come in the form of hydroxyl gas, which can help eliminate solid substances that can pose problems for many clothing items. We have found that restoration after flooding saves money, time, and aggravation, helping residents recover quickly because they need to replace fewer garments.

SERVPRO of South Miami helps all residents in the area restore belongings and other property after succumbing to flood damage. Let us help you with professional mitigation. Calling us at (305) 269-8900 puts you in contact with our 24-hour services, every day of the year.

Click here for more about the city of Miami.

Trained Professionals Remove Flood Damage From Your Miami Home With Care

9/14/2017 (Permalink)

Getting help from a qualified company is an excellent way to ensure you have professionals working towards protecting your interests.

Flood Damage Removal

Even the most frugal among us have precious items we want to protect. Whether you have a treasured book collection, an advanced gaming room, or a collection of antique dolls, it helps to know that someone is available to give our Miami area property the attention it deserves after a flood.

We all understand that storm season is upon us and want to protect our Miami homes from flood damage that these storms often bring. Getting help from a qualified company is an excellent way to ensure you have professionals working towards protecting your interests, should tragedy strike.

You can count on SERVPRO to provide specialized services, designed to adjust to your unique situation. We give you access to technicians dedicated to providing excellent services on every job, meeting or exceeding any expectations you may have. Seeing the look on your face after returning your property to a quality pre-flood damage condition fills us with satisfaction, making every moment worth it.

SERVPRO’s IICRC certified technicians scramble for deployment the moment you make the call, 24/7, regardless if your problem occurs during the day or night. We have rapid response teams that arrive in fully stocked Green Fleet vehicles, ready to tackle flood damage in your home as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Let’s say you have a couple of inches of water throughout your entire home, quickly making its way into your walls, cabinetry, flooring, furniture, and more. It makes sense to get the water out fast, but more importantly, you need professionals that treat your home’s contents with care, providing full restoration services wherever possible, helping you reduce your losses and prevent secondary damages.

If you have specific items you want us to pay closer attention to, we can help. SERVPRO works hard on every job to help restore picture frames, family photo albums, books, electronics and more. You can rest assured that grandma’s crystal vase is in good hands. Contact SERVPRO of South Miami for access to professionally trained technicians who care. Make the call, today (305) 269-8900.

For more about Miami visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miami.

Dealing With Flood Damage In Miami After A Storm

8/10/2017 (Permalink)

Storms are one of the most destructive natural events.

Dealing With Flood Damage

Storms are one of the most destructive natural events. They can come unexpectedly and cause extensive property damage. The resultant floods can cause trees and power cables to fall, sending them smashing through the roof. Heavy downpours, which are common during storms, can also cause leakages through the shelter. If unaddressed, the excess water can lead to rusting, mold growth, and other undesirable results.

To avoid hefty repair costs after a storm, contact SERVPRO right away for efficient flood damage restoration services in your Miami residence. Our technicians have the training, experience, and techniques to ensure that your property gets back to preloss conditions as soon as possible. We also adhere to IICRC recommendations to make sure that our services are up to par with industry standards.

This type of water damage comes with numerous hazards. They can be as simple as the excess water causing people to trip over, or as dangerous as prompting short circuits on wiring systems. Whichever the case, we need to evacuate everyone during the restoration process.

To prevent any incidents, we have to switch off all circuit breakers at the power supply. This step is important especially if we suspect that water may have penetrated the electrical outlets or wall cavities. A common rule is to place lockout tags and a post warning against reactivating any electric circuitry.

Drying and restoring the building involves using different techniques for different items. Extractors play a major role in water extraction from such things as carpets and upholstery. Aggressive cleaning can lead to carpet delamination, so we have to be very careful when choosing an extraction tool.

As the water removal process progresses, we use a moisture sensor to detect the presence of moisture in soft materials and how far it has traveled. Once it beeps to indicate moisture, our technicians use a moisture meter to show how much water is present. Using a moisture meter effectively requires knowledge on how to apply it on different surfaces – we have specialists who can do this.

When a storm hits your area, you cannot afford to neglect your property. As a locally based restoration company, SERVPRO of South Miami can respond quickly to repair the water damage. Get in touch anytime at (305) 269-8900.

For more information on the city of Miami click here.

Why Air Movement Is Essential For Repairing Flood Damage In Miami Homes

5/9/2017 (Permalink)

The application of air movement at the surface of wet objects is essential for the successful repair of water damage in homes.

Air Movement Is Vital For Flood Damage Repairs

For more than two decades, water damage restorers have been utilizing air moving equipment for the purposes of structural drying. The reason for this is because controlled drying processes depend on evaporation – the transition of liquid water to vapor.

Several different factors influence the rate of evaporation. Most are linked directly to changes in the air around damaged materials. Therefore, the application of air movement at the surface of wet objects is essential for the successful repair of water damage in Miami homes.

The Control Of Microbial Growth
High powered air movers are very effective when it comes to drying surface water. At SERVPRO, they are a critical tool for preventing microbial growth. Practically speaking, if water activity (aw) can be limited to a level below 0.75, the development of microbes is slower. However, if held at a level under 0.65 aw, it is difficult for any microbes to grow, even on the most vulnerable materials.

It means that SERVPRO has to commit to drying all damaged materials in order to reach an equilibrium with an environment below the 0.65 aw cut off. The fastest way to do this is to install air movers and direct clean, dry air over wet surfaces. Crucially, if the exposed surface of hygroscopic substances (plasterboard) get dried quickly but their interior remains wet, microbial growth is still unlikely.

The Even Distribution Of Heat And Air
As the drying process progresses, SERVPRO tightly regulates the humidity, temperature, and airflow within the water damaged space. When air movers get used correctly, they must redirect clean air and support the even distribution of heat to any materials which are still intolerably wet. As the job is nearing completion, the technicians can start to relax humidity and airflow controls, but they must still maintain established drying goals. Moisture tests are carried out periodically to determine how much moisture the materials in the room contain and how long it is likely to take for them to be dried out.

At SERVPRO of South Miami, we take water damage restoration seriously. By using sophisticated structural drying techniques, our technicians ensure that all excess water, damp, and moisture gets eliminated. Call us 24/7 at (305) 269-8900 for fast, effective repairs.

Homeowners In Coral Gables Prepare Against Flood Damage

2/16/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO often finds catastrophic damage that occurs when residents leave home for the day or go on vacation for extended periods of time.

Coral Gables Homeowners Prepare Their Homes From Flood Damage

Believe it or not, appliance failures happen more frequently and cause more damage to your home than a natural disaster, which makes how you respond to an emergency situation and whom you use to perform your repairs an issue of vital importance.

As the purchaser of a new home in the Coral Gables area; flood damage to the home you are about to purchase may be a big deal. Luckily, the seller is required to fill out a disclosure form and allow a home inspection, helping bring any past problems to light before you purchase.

Hurricanes happen far less often in our surrounding area than other kinds of unexpected flooding events. SERVPRO often finds catastrophic damage that occurs when residents leave home for the day or go on vacation for extended periods of time.

The common flooding issues that we address at SERVPRO on a near daily basis involves appliance failure or plumbing issues, where an appliance feed line breaks, flooding an entire floor of your home, the basement, or both, depending on the time it takes to discover the problem.

At SERVPRO, we have experienced flooding accidents involving your washing machine; where a hose bursts and can discharge hundreds of gallons of water every hour. We are also familiar with damages caused by breaks in the feed line of your ice maker, dishwasher supply lines, and even damaged water heaters.

To help avoid developing accidental flooding issues in your home, you can perform the proper routine inspections of areas containing a constant moisture source to determine if excessive moisture is present, a line is leaking, or other maintenance may be necessary. You may even want to disconnect such appliances when going on extended vacation or close the main water valve entirely until you return.

We have the ability to address these issues when they happen in your home, but taking the proper precautions to avoid these circumstances developing at all saves you quite a bit of trouble. As always, SERVPRO stresses the value of safety and preparation to prevent these kinds of incidents from forming on your property entirely.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

Contact SERVPRO of South Miami today for helpful advice or the services that you deserve to assist with returning your property to a quality pre-damage condition. (305) 269-8900  

Home Owners Dealing With Flood Damage In Key Biscayne

1/16/2017 (Permalink)

Flood Problems Are Assisted by SERVPRO Professionally and Safely

With a Village bordered by the Atlantic Beach to the east, Crandon Park to the north and Cape Florida State Park to the south, it's hard to think of you as strangers to flooding. Several ongoing efforts are in effect to reduce erosion and sedimentation damages by mitigating the consequences of the waves and storms that surge the surrounding areas during storms and tropical cyclones. Until some of these programs reach fruition, you still face moderate flooding issues and need the assistance of a professional company with the proper resources to help you during emergency situations.

We have the expertly trained professional technicians you need to battle flood damage located right here in Key Biscayne. The offices you contact are a part of a national franchise. However, we are locally owned and operated by people just like you. Living within the same community gives us a unique perspective on your situation. Because we're most likely experiencing it too. With technicians that have years of experience dealing with these types of situations; we can help you prepare for whatever comes your way and return your home to a quality pre-flood damage condition, "Like it never even happened," and fight back when disaster strikes.
 
SERVPRO understands that you're unlikely to stand around waiting for our technicians to arrive before doing something to help restore your property. All that we want is for you to make sure that it is safe to be inside of your home before you attempt any cleanup, item or water removal after your home has flooded. Start by making sure that the electricity in your home is off; this will eliminate any possible electrical hazards that exist.
 
You can assist with your restoration in a few ways that will benefit the technicians that are on the way to your home. Remove any excess water using a mop and pale, just remember to blot the area. Don't sweep the mop back and forth; you'll end up removing protective barriers, causing stains or even damaging your flooring beyond repair.
 
The professionals at SERVPRO ask that you limit yourself to removing small table-top items such as lamps, clocks, decorative items and small appliances. Just remember that some of the larger objects have absorbed lots of water, making them rather cumbersome, do not over exert yourself, remain safe.
 
Because of the experience our SERVPRO technicians possess, we know which signs to look for inside of your home, and we'll be able to determine which of our services to provide to help you best. We can help with the repairs to your home, sure. But we can also restore items to a quality condition that removes them from the loss category.
 
Take this opportunity to contact our offices at SERVPRO of South Miami today and see what we ca do for you. (305) 269-8900

Miami Flood Damage-What to Do?

3/19/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Quick Water Removal to Your Storm Damaged Property

SERVPRO Provides Total Support to Restore Your Storm Damaged Miami Dwelling

Miami flood damage is all too common an occurrence in this part of Florida. Following the experience of enduring the disaster that a hurricane, flood or fire causes, it is very apparent that much flood damage restoration lies ahead. After such a tragedy, the water removal, clean up process, and restoration to the pre-loss condition can feel like a very overwhelming task at hand, but needing immediate attention.
 
The aftermath of any storm event will encompass many aspects before there can be a return to normalcy. The most important initial factor is safety for you, your family, and the structure of your home. Note that you must not return to your home until the local authorities have advised you that it is safe. The range of storm damage to your home and your neighborhood will be the determining factors.

You should take the time to contact your home insurance provider as quickly as you can after the occurrence of the disaster that has affected your home unexpectedly. The insurance provider will then start your claim and send out an insurance adjuster since there is extensive damage. Make sure that you establish your coverage with your agent as some flood damage costs may need a separate policy. He can provide you with further assisted guidance by recommending a professional disaster recovery company like SERVPRO to begin the storm damaged restoration of your home. This national company, with local franchises, is listed as a preferred vendor to over 315 insurance and property management companies.
 
The initial 48 hours is crucial for mitigating water damage. SERVPRO can begin by boarding up any exposed areas to the outside elements. This will also lessen the chances of continuing damage or vandalism. The team can tarp roofs, and even construct temporary fencing around your property. All power must be disconnected to lessen the chance of electrocution or fires. Heavy duty truck mounted water pumps will void the structure of most of the standing water. Wet vacs, sump pumps, continue the water extraction process. Moisture removal is vital to mitigate secondary water damage to possessions, building materials, and mold growth. Air movers, dehumidifiers, and portable generators are available to continue this process.

SERVPRO will provide a CCIS report that inventories all water damaged items, and articles. We can pack-out possessions to be dried, cleaned, and sanitized at our cleaning facility. This report will help in your insurance claim for restitution and restoration of your Miami water damaged dwelling. We will complete the storm damage project by taking you on a walk-through of your property, supplying documentation of normal levels of moisture remaining, and guaranteeing your complete satisfaction. You can return home "Like it never even happened."

We're Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As a leader in storm and water damage restoration, SERVPRO of South Miami has the specialized training, equipment and expertise to restore your home back to its pre-storm condition.We respond 24/7 to your emergency. (305) 269-8900

Miami Commercial Storm/Flood Damage Restoration

12/12/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says Fast Water Removal Limits Water Damage

SERVPRO Can Restore Your Flood/Storm Damaged Commercial Property in Miami

Although commercial business owners grapple with property issues as part of doing business, dealing with Miami flood damage can be particularly problematic. In addition to necessitating extensive structural damage repair work, flood damage can destroy inventory, stock, supplies, office furniture, documents and electronic equipment. Add to this list potential health issues arising from contaminated water intrusion and possible mold proliferation. SERVPRO suggest the following article may help mitigate water damage to your business facility.

Ramifications of Water Damage Caused by Storm Surges
In many cases, flood damage results from the effects of a storm. There are several types of water damage that can result from storm surges. Some of them include:
• Building displacement or damage
• Mold growth in commercial properties within walls or HVAC systems
• Damage to coastal rail lines, highways, or roads resulting in less accessibility for transportation
• Loss of business, closed doors means lost commercial cash flow, less rent, and loss of customer traffic
• Port closures in Miami area can affect tourist business, stifling of imported products for sale
• Damage to property including contamination from flood water containing contaminants to sewage backup

How To Save On Flood Damage Restoration. Have a flood insurance program. Also, by purchasing business interruption insurance, you can gain reimbursement for a claim and lessen the impact of no revenue stream and thus lower your total costs. SERVPRO is recognized as a preferred vendor by many insurance and management companies. We can help speed the process of water damage restoration. The best way to reduce or prevent damages generated by storm surges is to implement strategies before the onset of hurricane season. Here are some strategies you should implement:
• Build higher. If you own your commercial building, consider the value of finding the property's base flood elevation and building above it. Hire a structural engineer to offer a plan to reinforce your commercial property.
• Place valuables higher. If your building contains more than one floor, be sure to move valuable assets, technical equipment, and computers to the second floor.
• Invest in preventative installations. Be sure to install some back-flow valves in the property's sewer lines. These valves will prevent city sewage from flowing into your property in the event of a storm surge. Have available access to water surge barricading materials such as sandbags. Also, be sure to elevate electrical systems such as extension cords above the region's flood level. You can also utilize cinder blocks to raise your appliances and most valuable assets above anticipated flood levels.
• Select fast-drying material. Carpeting and wet drywall are susceptible to damage from mold. These porous-surfaced building materials normally require discarding after flooding due to contaminants and mold growth. Build or replace with stone products, tile and noncardboard backed gypsum materials.
• Purchase hurricane shutters.

Call SERVPRO Now! To ensure that your Miami commercial property can withstand water damage resulting from floods, be sure to implement the strategies outlined above. Post flooding, the most urgent action is to extract the standing water from the premises. Our company has the equipment, training, and expertise to dry out your building, repair material damage, clean, and sanitize your business. Our IICRC-certified professionals are skilled in thoroughly restoring your property to its previous safe, sanitary condition. "Like it never even happened." Let's get you open for business.

Commercial Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

SERVPRO of South Miami has the training, experience, and equipment to handle large commercial water damage or storm emergencies. Regardless of your property type or size, we will respond quickly to clean the property and manage the restoration project through to its completion. Call us for 24/7 support. (305) 269-8900