Repainting and Restoration After Cigarette Smoke Damage

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professionals restore homeowners' belongings to their proper place.

You have taken these steps to help with the cigarette smoke damage, now what? 

Primer and Sealant Application

Smoke stains and odors can penetrate surfaces, necessitating a fresh start. Applying a primer and sealant specifically designed to block these issues is crucial before repainting. This preparation step acts as a barrier, preventing any remaining smoke particles from seeping through and affecting the new coat of paint.

Choosing the Right Paint and Color

Selecting the appropriate paint type and color plays a pivotal role in smoke eradication. Opting for matte finishes in smoke-prone areas can help conceal imperfections while resisting the adherence of smoke residue. Light colors, known for their ability to reflect light and create an illusion of spaciousness, can also contribute to visually eliminating any residual smoke traces. 

Preventive Measures for Future Smoke Issues 

Establishing Designated Smoking Areas

A proactive approach involves designating specific areas for smoking, and minimizing the intrusion of smoke into the rest of the living space. This practice not only helps in containing smoke but also encourages healthier habits. 

Use of Air Purifiers with Smoke-Specific Filters

Investing in air purifiers equipped with smoke-specific filters, such as HEPA and activated carbon combinations, can provide ongoing relief from smoke-related issues. These filters are tailored to capture even the tiniest smoke particles, ensuring a continuously fresh and smoke-free environment.

Regular Maintenance and Cleaning Routines

Consistency is key to maintaining a smoke-free environment. Implementing regular maintenance routines, including periodic deep cleaning sessions, can significantly reduce the chances of smoke residue buildup. By adhering to a structured cleaning schedule, you can ensure that smoke remains an issue of the past.

Tackling cigarette smoke requires a combination of DIY efforts and professional assistance. Armed with an understanding of smoke's composition and its elusive behavior, you can effectively combat its presence and create a healthier and more pleasant living environment. Whether through DIY methods or by seeking professional expertise, the goal remains the same: to bid farewell to cigarette smoke and welcome fresh air and comfort into your space.

SERVPRO^® is Here to Help Around the Clock

SERVPRO^® is available 24/7 year-round to assist with removing the smell of cigarette smoke, smoke remediation services, fire remediation services, and more. We’re experienced in cleaning, restoring, and repairing homes and businesses that have been affected by cigarette smoke. Whether it’s new or old, our team is dedicated to providing quick and effective smoke remediation services. With over 2000 franchises across the United States and Canada, rest assured there is never a SERVPRO^® far away.

Cleanup time!

7/11/2023 (Permalink)

Life can get a little messy sometimes. When it does, we can help you clean it up.

Our professional carpet cleaners can remove deep-seated dirt and grime to keep your carpet and rugs looking their best and extend their lifespan. Even the most high-quality items can become soiled with dust, dirt, pet hair and the daily traffic of family life. SERVPRO applies its more than 50 years of knowledge and experience in restoration to carpet cleaning and upholstery cleaning projects of all sizes. We use a variety of cleaning methods depending on your situation. Our goal is to clean carpets, rugs and upholstery to your satisfaction to restore them to their original appearance.

Why Choose SERVPRO for Carpet Cleaning?

Provide 24/7 Emergency Service

Highly Trained Technicians

#1 in the Cleanup and Restoration Industry

We’re a trusted leader in the restoration industry.

Easier Insurance Claims Process

Duct Work Cleaning

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

Is the ductwork in your building clean and ready for the winter months? As forced hot air systems are turned on all over the city for the cold winter months we are reminded that it is important to make sure the ductwork that supplies that warm air is clean. Clean ductwork makes for a healthier environment inside your home, office or business. Clean ductwork also makes your heating system more efficient and reduces your fuel costs. There are some factors that make cleaning your ductwork a necessity, one such factor is if you have recently had flooding, water damage or mold within your building. Mold in ductwork can lead to health issues for anyone within your building and regularly having your ducts cleaned is the easiest way to avoid this type of disaster.

Prevent a Home Fire by Cleaning Your Dryer Vent Regularly!

7/26/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that 34% of home fires are caused by failure to clean the vent in a clothe dryer?

A lint fire is a dangerous possibility. To avoid the hazard on lint buildup, occasionally pull out the vent and clean. Thoroughly dry the lint screen with a clean towel. You can also use a vacuum to clean the lint trap filter. SERVPRO® Lee & South Chatham Counties can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup.

The National Fire Protection Agency suggests we clean the lint filter before and after each load. It is vital to clean your dryer vents every so often to ensure your safety.

Here are some signs that your dryer vent may need to be cleaned:

• Drying times are taking longer.
• Your dryer is getting hot when you’re using it and your clothes are being damaged.
• You can’t see any steam or hear any noise outside your house at the wall vent when you run the dryer.

If you do experience a fire caused by your dryer or any other appliances in your home, call SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties at 919-533-6776. Our teams stand ready 24/7 to clean up and restore your property from fire, smoke, water and mold.

Creating Ozone

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Ozone generators are one of the most common ways to quickly remove airborne contaminates and odors from homes, offices, and even cars. The same molecular process that makes ozone generators so effective is also what makes them dangerous.  When inhaled, ozone can damage the lungs. It can take up to 60 minutes after the generator cycle ends for the ozone to be neutralized, making it safe to breathe.

What is ozone? Ozone is a molecule composed of three atoms of oxygen. Two atoms of oxygen form the basic oxygen molecule. Ozone generators create O3, (ozone) which disburses into the space to be treated. Nature creates O3 as a natural cleaner during thunderstorms, and from sunlight striking the earth’s atmosphere. Have you ever taken a walk after a thunderstorm and experienced the clean, fresh smell in the air? That's O3, or ozone cleaning the air.

After removing the source of the odor, use the ozone machine to oxidize remaining organic odors. Ozone can be especially helpful in fire or smoke damage restoration. We here at SERVPRO Lee & South Chatham Counties use our ozone machines in these type of jobs, large and small. After drying the area fully and removing any organic matter, set the unit as a high as possible. Ozone is heavier than air and will fall. Set up an air mover to help circulate the ozone. Once completed, you must ventilate thoroughly for it to be safe.

Ductwork Cleaning For The Upcoming Events!

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Give our office a call if you require seasonal ductwork cleaning for your building.

It is difficult to imagine the cold winter ahead after a hot summer and the start of a very warm autumn. It is still in our thoughts, with just 100 days until Christmas. It is important to inspect your heating system before it gets cold. It is a good idea to clean and replace any filters in your ductwork before you turn on the heat.

Give our office a call if you require seasonal ductwork cleaning for your building. We offer commercial and large residential cleaning services in New York City.

SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties works with almost all major insurance providers and have the resources to manage and complete large-loss projects. Contact our office today, 919-533-6776. 

How Does an Ozone Generator Remove Odors?

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

First off, you may be wondering, “What is an ozone generator?” An ozone generator is an industrial machine that produces ozone. So now you’re probably asking yourself, “What is ozone?” Many of us may remember learning about the ozone layer in school. The ozone layer is a layer in the Earth’s stratosphere that has trace amounts of ozone.

Up in the stratosphere, the ozone protects us by absorbing most of the ultraviolet radiation that reaches the Earth from the sun. While that might sound great, ozone in high concentrations is actually very toxic to humans.

What is Ozone?

Ozone is a colorless, highly reactive, toxic gas with powerful oxidizing properties. It is comprised of three atoms of oxygen rather than the two atoms of oxygen that we breathe. Ozone is naturally occurring as well as man-made. An ozone generator is a man-made way of creating ozone.

So why would we want to create ozone if it is toxic to humans? Because ozone is very good at removing the particles in the air that cause odors. It is the ultimate air purifier which is why it is used by industrial clean up companies like SERVPRO of Indianapolis West.

How Does Ozone Remove Odors?

Smells from house fires, molds, decaying organic materials, trash, cigarette smoking, and other sources are present as small molecules, particulates, and bacteria that float through the air and attach themselves to carpets, walls, ceilings, furniture, and other surfaces in a home.

Ozone removes the smell and odors by reacting and destroying the offensive smelling particulates, molecules, and bacteria. The ozone chemically reacts with them breaking them down into molecules and particulates and bacteria that don’t smell.

When Should Ozone Be Used?

An ozone generator is recommended for professional-use only, due to the dangers of high concentrations of ozone. Ozone generators and ozone are used to remove odors that seem impossible to remove. They can be used to remove the smell of cigarette smoke from a home that has been heavily smoked in.

They can also be used to remove the smoke odors from homes and businesses that have experienced a fire. Ozone is highly effective at removing odors due to the fact that it can penetrate anything that oxygen and smoke can penetrate. This can include fabric sofas and carpets in a home that has experienced smoke damage.

Due to the toxicity of the ozone gas, ozone generators are only used in spaces that are unoccupied and sealed. This means that if they are used in a home or business, they space usually needs to be evacuated while the ozone generator is in use. That is why it is highly recommended that you rely on professionals who are trained on how to safely operate an ozone generator.

Struggling to Get Rid of Strong Odors in Your Home or Business?

If you have strong odors that you have been battling for months and even years to get rid of, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties to get rid of them. They’ll be able to determine the best actions to take including whether an ozone generator is needed.

The experts at SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties have helped remediate the odors from fires, flooding, mold damage and other sources for years. They have all the tools and experience to handle any disaster and any smell. Contact SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties online or call us at 919-533-6776.

HVAC & Air Duct Cleaning

5/15/2021 (Permalink)

It’s spring cleaning time again! As we clean inside and around our homes and businesses in Lee and South Chatham Counties let’s not forget about our HVAC and Air Ducts system. These can easily be overlooked.  The HVAC system in any building is like the lungs in the human body. You should pay attention to the air you breathe. HVAC and Air Duct cleaning is extremely helpful to make sure the air is kept clean and safe.  In addition to normal accumulations of dust and dirt found in all buildings with air ducts, there are several other factors that can increase the need for regular HVAC system cleaning:

• Pets
• Pollen 
• Occupants with allergies or asthma
• Cigarette or cigar smoke
• Water contamination or damage to the home or HVAC system
• Home renovation or remodeling projects 

  Call SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties  today to schedule an appointment at 919-533-6776. 

We want YOU to be Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

We want you to be Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned!

COVID-19 is still active throughout our state of NC! Let us help you with disinfecting and sanitizing your home and business. Our technicians have a high degree of training and experience performing hazardous type work, whether its bio-hazard or even our typical mold work. Our people definitely make a difference! Our process follows CDC and specific product recommendations. We own the correct equipment to do the job. Using a fogger is not a beginner's task and we have a long history of utilizing PPE too. We have SERVPROXIDE! We have some other great products that are available but we like to warn people about the dangers of using bleach. Mixing bleach with other products may cause serious health problems especially when mixed with ammonia, vinegar, or any other acid type cleaning material. Bleach can be toxic to every living being and our environment.

We are available in Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, Siler City, Sanford and surrounding areas!

SERVPRO CLEANED!

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in our local communities of Pittsboro, Sanford, Siler City, Cary,

As Chatham and Lee Counties get back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations*. At SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in our local communities of Pittsboro, Sanford, Siler City, Cary, Apex, New Hill, Chapel Hill and Durham as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

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

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

So when you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield, you can walk in with confidence. Because you’ll know the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Have Questions? Call Today 919-533-6776