Preparing Your Home and Family For Tornado Season | SERVPRO of Rapid City

6/17/2024 (Permalink)

Whether its storm damage cleanup or restoration, SERVPRO of Rapid City is ready to respond in a moments notice to your call.

As summer approaches in the Midwest, our community needs to prepare for the possibility of tornadoes. These violent storms can strike suddenly and cause extensive damage to homes and communities.

However, by taking proactive steps to prepare your home and family, you can increase your chances of staying safe during tornado season.

Setting Up Your Backyard Grill for Success and Fire Prevention This Summer | SERVPRO of Rapid City

6/3/2024 (Permalink)

Gather around the grill, but don't forget about fire safety! Follow these tips from SERVPRO of Rapid City to ensure a fun and safe night.

As the warm weather arrives, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and enjoying a delicious meal in your backyard. However, grilling comes with its own set of safety concerns, particularly the risk of fire.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable grilling experience this summer, here are some tips for setting up your backyard grill for success and fire prevention.

Tips for Storm Planning With Your Family | SERVPRO of Rapid City

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

family watching lightning storm from inside home with candles due to power outage

Storms can be a scary experience for anyone, but especially for children and pets. The sound of thunder, lightning and tornado sirens can leave you feeling unsure of where to start when it comes to your response. However, with proper preparation, you can keep your family calm and collected during storm situations.

Our team has put together some simple tips to help you incorporate storm planning into your family routine, ensuring everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. By following these steps, you can take control of the situation and make sure your loved ones stay safe during severe weather.

<h3the-sky-signs">Learning the Sky Signs

We can all easily tell the difference between a cloudy day and a sunny one, but recognizing when severe weather is approaching can be a bit trickier. Teach your kids to keep an eye on the sky when they are outside and to look for rotating clouds, a dark or green sky, or rumbling thunder and lightning.

In addition, your kids should know what a tornado siren sounds like and when one might be activated. A great time to do this is during a testing day! Have your kids simulate a regular day and then time them to see how long it takes to get to your safe shelter location once the test siren goes off.

<h3for-incoming-weather">Preparing for Incoming Weather

Has your family discussed your storm emergency plan? Doing so can help everyone understand what is expected of them during a true emergency. Locate your safe shelter location and work together to prepare your emergency kit.

Once you choose your safe sheltering area, keep it free of clutter and consider moving a heavy object like a table or desk into the room to act as additional protection. Have a little fun by building a fort under the table with your kids and huddle together inside.

You should also let your kids help pack up your emergency kit! Start by gathering the essentials and then let your kids pick some special snacks to go into the bag. Let them each choose a durable water bottle as well.

Let your kids add a flashlight into the bag for themselves and let them label theirs with their own name. Don’t forget extra batteries, matches and any necessary medications. Finally, let your kids add games or activities into the bag that will keep them entertained while they have to shelter in place. It may seem unnecessary during an emergency, but we promise that you will be grateful for the distraction if you are stuck inside for a long period of time.

<h3the-kids-calm">Keeping the Kids Calm

When severe weather strikes, it’s natural for children to feel scared and apprehensive. As a parent, it’s important to ease their fears and help them feel more confident during these situations. One way to do this is by educating them on the actual probability of experiencing severe destruction or being directly hit by a tornado. In most cases, damage is usually limited to the roof, siding and surrounding areas and doesn’t result in total devastation.

Reassure your children that they are safe, and remind them of the steps you have taken to prepare for the storm. To keep their minds off of the weather, engage them in fun activities and try to narrate the events in a lighthearted manner. For example, you could turn the storm into a game of “indoor camping” and encourage them to build a fort in your safe shelter location.

By incorporating these tips into your severe weather plan, you can help your children feel more prepared and confident during storms.

Storm damage should always be addressed quickly. Contact SERVPRO® day or night for the restoration services you need.

Top Tips for Avoiding Musty Smells After a Water Leak | SERVPRO of Rapid City

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

Trust our team at SERVPRO of Rapid City to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.

You come home from a long day of work and step directly into a puddle of water. Maybe your dishwasher leaked or you left a window open and rain came pouring in, and now you have a serious situation to deal with.

Even if you grab a mop and a bucket to dry it up or soak up the visible water with some towels, chances are that you probably aren’t drying up all of the moisture. Leaving any sort of lingering moisture behind can open you up to much bigger issues down the road, and you certainly don’t want that to happen.

Hiring a professional to help you recover from water damage will ensure that you avoid issues like mold growth, rot and stinky musty odors from hazards like mildew.

Insurance Claims Made Simple | SERVPRO of Rapid City

4/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is Here to Help® with your business' disaster recovery!

Disaster situations can be overwhelming for anyone, especially if there is an element of danger to them. While the emergency is happening, safety becomes your top priority and you focus on keeping your family close and protected until the situation is under control.

However, once the initial emergency is over, it certainly doesn’t mean that there is nothing left to do. Recovering after a disaster takes work and that in itself can seem insurmountable.

SERVPRO of Rapid City is thankfully here to take over your entire recovery! We can handle your reconstruction and repairs as well as the more confusing aspects of disaster recovery, like navigating insurance claims.

The Basics of Flood Damage and Prevention | SERVPRO of Rapid City

4/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is ready to help in a moments notice after spring showers leak in to your home or business.

When you really want to get a task done well, do you just jump right in and tackle it all at once or do you break it down to the basics and work your way in? Oftentimes, starting at the beginning can help you tackle a problem more completely and will work better for you in the long run.

This is especially true when it comes to preventing home damage during severe weather or other home disasters. If you take simple prevention steps now, you will be much more likely to find success when the situation does occur.

Home and property flooding is a serious issue that can happen at any time, so use the steps below to help you prepare for this unfortunate type of emergency.

Something Stinky? Dealing With Sewage Leaks Safely | SERVPRO of Rapid City

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is always ready to respond to your call when biohazard incidents strike.

Sewage is supposed to flow down and away from your home safely without you ever having to worry about it, or without thinking about what is flowing through your pipes. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen the way it should!

Sewage leaks can happen at the most unexpected times, leaving you with a serious mess—and a serious stink—to deal with right away. We offer some reliable tips to deal with sewage leaks safely so you can recover faster.

<h3to-the-situation">Responding to the Situation

Sewage backups can happen whenever a clog or blockage occurs in your pipe system. If the wastewater can’t move down and away from your home like it should, it can get forced backward into your toilets, tubs and sinks. In addition, sewage leaks can happen if your pipeline becomes compromised or if a connection gets loose.

No matter the situation, your first priority should be to stay out of the water. Sewage is considered a toxic substance and is categorized as dangerous black water. Black water could contain viruses, bacteria and microbes that can make you really sick or can even be deadly.

If you are able to locate and reach the water shutoff valve without getting into the water, do so right away to stop the flow of water. After that, turn on some fans and open a window to let the fumes escape. You should also be dialing up our phone number at this time!

<h3our-team-shines">Where Our Team Shines

Whether your leak is small or the wastewater is all over your floors, it is crucial to have a trained biohazard cleanup crew onsite to help with the situation. Since sewage is potentially dangerous, you should leave the cleanup to the professionals who have the right equipment and safety gear to take care of it properly.

We will get right to work gathering the supplies and crew that we need, so while you wait for us to arrive, we recommend that you take some photos. These images will certainly not be making a holiday card anytime soon, but they are necessary for your insurance claim.

Once we arrive, we will focus on removing the sewage while also locating the reason for the leak in the first place. Our team will secure the leak and tackle repairs while our cleaning crew will remove the standing water. Since sewage is potentially dangerous, we will encourage you to stay out of the area while we work.

After the repairs have taken place and the sewage is gone, we will employ our deodorizers to remove any lingering stinky smells. We can also address any reconstruction needs that you may have! Water can cause serious damage to your walls and floors, so we can replace floorboards and drywall as needed.

Stop the stink and call SERVPRO® right away! Our crew will make sure to tackle your recovery quickly so you can return to your home safely as soon as possible.

Sewage leaks should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO, and we will take care of you.

Weather Alerts: What You Need to Know | SERVPRO of Rapid City

3/1/2024 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Rapid City help you get from April showers to May flowers.

The spring season is well on its way, and it’s time once again to dust off our rain boots and enjoy warmer and longer days ahead! That also means that rumbling thunderstorms, heavy rain and even severe weather are on the horizon once more.

Even though we can’t control the spring weather, we can certainly all be prepared for it. Our team explains some easy ways to stay connected to the weather forecast and any changing conditions through various alert systems.

Tackling Your Restoration After a Disaster at Work | SERVPRO of Rapid City

2/15/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is here for your business every step of the way, from ERPs to disaster recovery.

No one wakes up one morning expecting to suffer from a fire or a serious flood, but unfortunately, business owners across the country experience this situation every single day.

While we can’t completely prevent disaster from striking, we can all have reliable plans in place for what to do before, during and after an event to help us stay in control and to avoid serious damage. Call SERVPRO of Rapid City for a quick restoration no matter your situation!

 Before the Event

You can’t predict the future, but you can always be prepared for what could happen. If your team knows how to prepare for a fire, flood or severe storm, you can rest assured that everyone will work together seamlessly to respond to the situation at hand.

Included in that plan should be a solid communication strategy! You can only be prepared if your team knows what is going on, so develop a strong chain of command and don’t be afraid to assign specific tasks to specific people so that there is no confusion on what to do.

Take them on a tour of your building and point out emergency exits, fire extinguisher locations and your utility room. Make sure your team understands where your water shut-off valves are and where your breaker box is located, just in case.

You should also have a reliable plan for what to do directly after a disaster. Some disaster scenarios require temporary displacement while repairs are happening, so your team should either understand how to transition into remote work or where to go in the meantime.

Recovering Faster

After your team is secured, you should get us on the phone! We deal in large-scale recovery often so we will confidently assess your space and then get right to work. We are highly trained and able to help you with whatever disaster situation is at hand.

Our professional team will handle your recovery, so you can focus on staying connected to your customers. The people who love and care about your business will want to know what is going on and when to expect your doors to reopen, so keep them updated on the progress! The more communication, the better.

While you might have to be displaced temporarily, remember that it won’t last forever! We will work on repairing, restoring and rebuilding your home as quickly and as efficiently as possible. Our team will work hard to minimize your disruption and will help support you every step along the way.

Planning ahead can help you stay on task during a disaster and calling SERVPRO® immediately after can help you avoid long-term or permanent closures. We always have your back so you can thrive as a trusted business in the Rapid City area.

Has your business experienced a disaster, or do you want help building an emergency plan? Contact us to find everything you need.

Here to See Disaster Restoration Through | SERVPRO of Rapid City

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!

Disaster situations are by nature unexpected, so when something unfortunate does happen, it always seems to take us by surprise. When it rains, it pours, right? This is especially true when it comes to dealing with home disasters and damage.

Whether a strong storm caused widespread damage to your roof or an appliance malfunctioned and poured water all over your basement floor, a quick restoration is always necessary to avoid further issues.

That’s where SERVPRO of Rapid City comes into play! Our team will handle your entire recovery after something as simple as a single phone call.

Staying Warm Without Starting a Fire This Season | SERVPRO of Rapid City

1/16/2024 (Permalink)

Fire safety is a top priority for us at SERVPRO of Rapid City this winter. Keep your home safe with these helpful tips!

Who else loves this time of year? Getting cozy, staying in and enjoying a well-deserved rest can make this season a favorite for many. While you are busy pulling out your fuzzy socks and bundling up near the fireplace, it is crucial that you are doing so in a fire-safe way.

The number of house fires skyrockets during the winter season across the country, and unfortunately, many of them are preventable. Knowing how to care for your fireplace and space heaters can help you stay fire-free during the rest of the winter season.

Worried About Water Leaks? Check These Spaces First | SERVPRO of Rapid City

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Rapid City to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.

We often don’t think about the water that is constantly flowing in and out of our homes because to us, that is a natural and necessary part of a home’s function! However, each time we turn on a tap to wash our hands or fill a pot to boil water for pasta, the water that is flowing into our home has the potential to get somewhere it shouldn’t.

Water leaks can be really frustrating and can lead to serious damage in a small amount of time. While not all of them can be prevented, knowing where they often start can help you track down the source faster and address the situation head on.

Keeping It Local: The Benefits | SERVPRO of Rapid City

12/15/2023 (Permalink)

No job is too big or too small for our team of industry leading experts at SERVPRO of Rapid City!

If we could all avoid suffering home damage, we would, right? Experiencing a home disaster is always unfortunate and can create more problems than you want to deal with on a regular day. However, home disasters can’t always be prevented, which can lead to some serious consequences.

You deserve to recover faster and more efficiently after suffering from fire, flood or storm damage, so using a company that will be at your home right away is essential.

Rely on SERVPRO of Rapid City for all of your home restoration needs! We will be there as soon as you call us to provide you with our reliable and thorough restoration and cleaning services.

Taking Control of Water Leaks at Work | SERVPRO of Rapid City

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Has water damage infiltrated your business? Give SERVPRO of Rapid City a call to get that resolved!

The last thing you want to worry about as a business owner is the possibility of suffering a disaster at work. Disasters are notorious for being unexpected, so you could very well be going about your day only to be surprised by something serious, like a burst water line or a leaky roof when it starts to rain.

Water damage can set in quickly in these situations, so acting fast and taking steps toward recovery right away can help you stay in control and avoid long-term damage.

We are here to help! Creating a recovery plan now can help you navigate uncertain situations like this with more confidence, allowing you to open back up for business faster without suffering too many setbacks.

Understanding How Home Damage Can Compound Over Time | SERVPRO of Rapid City

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover damage in your residence, call SERVPRO of Rapid City right away.

Different weather threats or unexpected situations can often take us by surprise and leave our homes with significant damage. Fire, floods and even simple accidents like broken windows from an errant golf ball can be frustrating to deal with.

While these types of situations can happen at any point, we can’t spend all of our days worrying about the possibilities! Knowing what to expect and preparing for the different scenarios can help you avoid extensive damage.

SERVPRO® of Rapid City is proud to help our community recover from disaster! We explain some of the more common threats for our area and what we can do to help below.

Planning for Disasters to Reduce Damage at Your Business | SERVPRO of Rapid City

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Are you prepared for disaster? SERVPRO of Rapid City is here for you when disaster strikes!

Planning is the most reliable way to avoid damage at your business, and unfortunately, that concept is becoming more important as natural disasters continue to happen across the country. In fact, natural disasters have been steadily increasing over the last five years. They are also becoming stronger and are causing more extensive damage in their wake.

While statistics aren’t guarantees, they should cause you to think about the threats that could impact your business. Natural disasters are always a possibility, but so are manmade disasters. Either could come along at any time and cause significant damage to your property.

Staying ahead of these risks can help protect your bottom line and help keep your staff safe, and having a plan in place for each scenario is crucial.

Cook Your Holiday Creations in a Fire-Safe Way | SERVPRO of Rapid City

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Rapid City on the case!

The holidays are here, which means it’s time for family gatherings, gift exchanges and amazing homemade food. Whether you are hosting the parties and are in charge of making all the food or you are bringing your famous green bean casserole to the event, cooking will be involved in the process.

Practicing fire-safe cooking strategies is crucial at any point in the year, but especially when the holidays are here. Kitchen fires increase in the winter months, so practicing these strategies below will help you stay fire-free and in a jolly good mood.

The Power of Winter Storms in Western South Dakota | SERVPRO of Rapid City

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

The winter season is almost upon us! SERVPRO of Rapid City has your back with these helpful tips.

When the winter wind blows around here, it really blows! Strong winter storms are on the horizon for us already this season, so we need to be prepared for the subzero temperatures, blizzard conditions and slippery roads that are bound to be around soon enough.

In order to avoid serious damage and to stay safe while the snow falls, you have to prepare your home for the incoming weather! Check out our tips below to help you prepare before the first serious storm comes our way.

Recovering After a Storm in the Rapid City Area | SERVPRO of Rapid City

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

Summer storms affecting your property? Call SERVPRO of Rapid City to restore your space in no time!

Preparing for storms is one thing, but dealing with the aftermath of unexpected damage is entirely different! One strong thunderstorm has the potential to blow in and cause significant damage to your home and property. Summer in the Rapid City area can bring storms in quickly as they roll across the central plains and bring along heavy rain, wind and hail. We usually get a handful of tornado touchdowns every year, so staying vigilant is key.

Staying safe when poor weather is forecast should always be your top priority. Get your family and yourself into your safe sheltering location and stay there until the threat has passed.

Once the coast is clear and you can find your way out, follow our guidelines below for assessing the damage and for figuring out what to do next.

Top Tips for Protecting Your Home From Heavy Rain | SERVPRO of Rapid City

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Rapid City on the case!

We can all appreciate a soft and gentle rainfall during the hot summer months, especially when it has been dry and humid for the majority of the season. Our plants and lawns certainly appreciate it, too!

However, some rainstorms aren’t all that pleasant and can actually cause serious damage to our homes and properties. When rain starts to fall in heavy sheets, it can force its way into our homes and leak down our walls.

Our SERVPRO® of Rapid City team wants you to avoid water damage as much as possible, so we offer some tips below to avoid water damage when the rain starts to fall.

Staying Safe During Fall Bonfire Season | SERVPRO of Rapid City

9/18/2023 (Permalink)

Bonfire season is upon us! SERVPRO of Rapid City has your back with these helpful fire safety tips.

The fall season is upon us once more, and we sure aren’t complaining. Who doesn’t love the crinkling leaves, the beautiful colors and the cooler weather? We also love the coziness that a fall bonfire brings to the season.

Fall bonfires may be relaxing and offer warmth when the sun goes down, but they can still be dangerous if they are not treated with respect.

Our SERVPRO® of Rapid City team explains more about outdoor fire safety during this time of year so everyone can stay safe and enjoy the flames in peace.

Addressing Water Damage Quickly | SERVPRO of Rapid City

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Rapid City right away.

Take a moment to think about all of the ways that you use and rely on water around your household. It definitely is a huge part of your day and oftentimes you don’t even think twice about it!

That daily use also means that there is the chance of experiencing water damage all over your home. A flooded basement due to a broken water heater or a soft wall caused by a broken bathroom water line can be really frustrating and cause extensive damages.

Of course, Mother Nature also contributes to the risk of water damage. A heavy rain could cause standing water to pool in your basement or a tree could fall and damage your roof, causing a significant water leak. At this point in the year in Rapid City, strong storms could pop up at any moment.

Preventing water damage altogether is always the goal, but that is not necessarily possible for every situation. Our SERVPRO® of Rapid City team explains more about how to handle water damage and how we can help after the fact.

Firing Up Your Barbecue Grill Without Starting a House Fire | SERVPRO of Rapid City

8/10/2023 (Permalink)

Have you had a barbeque gone wrong? Call SERVPRO of Rapid City to get your space back in shape.

We are in the heart of the summer season here in Rapid City, and we sure are enjoying it. The summer season is special in the Midwest with all of the sunny days, warm breezes and time spent outside with family and friends.

Who doesn’t love digging out their aprons and grill brushes to kickstart a backyard barbecue with hot dogs and burgers? While grilling may be a summertime favorite, grill fires are also at their peak at this point in the year.

Improper use of a charcoal or propane grill can quickly lead to a dangerous fire situation. Our SERVPRO® of Rapid City team wants you to enjoy your grilled food in a safe environment, so read on to learn more about reducing your risk of a fire.

Tackling Your Storm Prep for the Summer Season | SERVPRO of Rapid City

7/19/2023 (Permalink)

Have you been impacted by the unusual summer storm season? SERVPRO of Rapid City has your back when you experience flood and water damage.

Rain, hail, wind, floods and the threat of tornadoes are all just a common part of the summer season. While the different weather threats can vary in severity, it is still crucial to prepare for whatever could come our way.

In addition to maintaining your home with daily cleaning and tasks, you also need to take steps to protect your home from the possibility of damages when a storm comes to town.

The summer season can bring strong thunderstorms with hail and high wind, and tornado conditions can appear quickly without much warning. This is why being ready in advance is always recommended in the Rapid City community.

When you start planning how to approach your preparation, consider starting outside. Check out our tips below to help prepare your home and yard to weather the summer storms this year.

Arming Your Team With Storm Safety Information | SERVPRO of Rapid City

7/14/2023 (Permalink)

If your home or business was damaged in a storm, call SERVPRO of Rapid City to get you back in action.

You rely on your team to help make your business successful, so supporting them should be one of your main goals as a business owner. Preparing your staff in the event of an emergency can help ensure their safety in any situation.

Extreme weather is one instance that can create chaos relatively quickly, so training your staff in the proper response to each situation can help everyone react quickly and calmly.

Use our tips below to help bolster your staff’s confidence when a true weather emergency arrives.

Introducing Fire Safety to Your Kids in a Fun Way | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

6/10/2023 (Permalink)

If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make Rapid City your first call.

Having children is a lot of work, but it sure is rewarding! Each day is filled with learning, creativity and fun as you help them grow and experience the world around them. One job that is crucially important is to keep them safe and to help prevent dangerous situations from occurring around them.

One really important topic to talk to your kids about is fire safety. House fires can have disastrous consequences and can be really scary for your little ones to think about.

By changing up how you approach fire safety, you can instill some safety practices in your child’s mind without scaring them with the possibilities.

Protect Your Home as the Wind Blows | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

6/5/2023 (Permalink)

If you've suffered from storm-related damage to your home or business, make Rapid City your first call.

We all can appreciate the wind from time to time. Some days, we welcome the gentle breeze or appreciate when the wind blows those beautiful fluffy clouds in our direction. Not all wind gusts are welcomed, however.

When the wind picks up alongside a thunderstorm or even worse, a tornado, it can be dangerous and even a deadly situation. Damaging wind can blow even when there is no severe weather occurring at all!

By having a better understanding about the different wind patterns that occur around the Rapid City area, you can better protect your family and home.

Tracking Down Water Damage in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Rapid City to find the source.

One of the most frustrating things about water damage is that it can occur without much warning. Oftentimes, it can spread and create a major problem before it is even discovered by someone in your house.

Knowing where to look for water damage can help you identify a problem before it gets to that point. By being proactive and checking your home often, you can help save yourself time and money.

Our SERVPRO of Rapid City team wants you to check these spots around your home often for signs of water damage.

Your rooftop. Our roofs protect our entire home on a daily basis, but they are often forgotten about when it comes to home maintenance. If you have a water leak somewhere along your roofline, chances are you won’t immediately notice right away.

A tiny leak might be hard to spot right away, but the longer it goes unaddressed, the more damage and chaos it can cause in your attic and along your entire roofline.

Another frustrating thing about water leaks is that they drip! Water can seep into your walls and into your floors, which can be really hard to clean up on your own. Over time, a hidden leak can encourage mold growth, which is a whole other problem to deal with on top of the water damage.

Your bathrooms. This one is probably not surprising. With all of the different fixtures that use water on a daily basis in your bathrooms, it is so easy for something to leak or malfunction and cause water damage.

As soon as you notice a puddle of water that doesn’t have an explanation or you see a dripping pipe anywhere in your bathroom, it’s time to investigate further. Even just an increase in bathroom moisture can indicate a problem.

Inspecting your plumbing on the regular is a good way to catch issues or notice that a pipe fighting or seal is wearing away. You might even stop a problem before it starts!

Your appliances. We use many appliances in our homes every day to accomplish tasks, and many of them utilize water in order to function. When an appliance leaks, it can be particularly hard to notice because we often don’t just pull our appliances away from the wall for no reason.

You should get into the habit of checking for water damage beneath and behind them often! Try to do this every time that you deep-clean the rooms in your Rapid City home.

It is also a helpful idea to run your hand along your appliances on occasion to feel for moisture or slow drips. In addition, don’t let your appliances become dated. Old appliances can often become unreliable, and you deserve to have the most reliable equipment in your home.

Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!

Our Team Has the Training and Reliability You Deserve | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

Is your home or business in need of restoration? SERVPRO of Rapid City is ready to help you recover.around the clock.

When it comes to your home, you do everything you can to protect it. You plan and prepare as best you can for every situation, knowing that every decision can have an impact on your home. Minor preparations like putting together an emergency kit can help keep you safe, while major decisions like who to choose to help you recover from a house fire can be life-changing.

Choosing the right company can often make all the difference! Would you want a team that has very little training and expertise to arrive at your house? Or would you prefer a highly trained professional crew?

When you decide to have your local SERVPRO of Rapid City team help you recover, you can relax knowing that you are in good hands. We dedicate our time to ensure we are trained in the latest and greatest restoration techniques, and we take the time to obtain certifications on proper processes and procedures in order to care for your home as thoroughly as possible.

We Follow and Implement All Industry Trainings

We make sure to follow all IICRC standards when it comes to training, and every member of our restoration team follows the guidelines laid out for cleaning and restoration. We take courses dedicated to this information, including classes on:

• water damage restoration
• fire damage restoration
• mold remediation
• carpet and upholstery and cleaning

In addition, we also offer our employees certification training to make sure they have the knowledge to succeed in this industry. We allow our employees to complete this training at their own pace, which gives them the time and confidence needed to make sure they thoroughly understand the material.

We Are Always Learning More

We fully believe that learning shouldn’t stop after the initial training, which is why we give our staff access to continuing education classes and e-learning opportunities throughout their careers. This helps sharpen their skills and can teach them new processes along the way.

Each house damage situation is unique, so we want to make sure we have the tools necessary for every type of home damage situation. That is why we are always learning!

Staying updated about the latest information allows us to change up our processes to align with the current best practices. Since technology is always changing and advancing, we want to make sure we can change and evolve alongside it.

Our Training Benefits You

When you choose a company that is fully trained and certified, you know that your restoration project will be completed as thoroughly as possible. We guarantee your satisfaction enough that we won’t leave until everything is exactly how you want it!

While you could certainly choose a company with less training, you don’t need to take that risk. The difference between companies could result in a roof leak that isn’t completely fixed or a lingering smell of smoke after a fire restoration. Choose SERVPRO of Rapid City, and you don’t have to worry about a thing.

When you need help recovering from a disaster, SERVPRO is here for you. Get in touch 24/7 to start your disaster recovery.

What to Know About Appliance Water Leaks | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Have water damage in your home from an appliance? SERVPRO of Rapid City is always on call ready to help,

Water is vital to life! Not only do we need water to drink, but we also use it every day in our homes to make food, wash clothes and dishes, and even to make ice that chills our drinks. Because water is so essential, there is always the risk of experiencing water damage.

The large appliances that you have in your home are one of the main culprits for water damage. If they break, malfunction or experience a leak, they can cause everything from a minor puddle all the way up to a full disaster.

Learning what to look for and understanding how to maintain your appliances can help you reduce your risk of experiencing water damage in your home.

Facebook RSS Keeping Your Commercial Property Dry and Free of Damage | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

Experienced water damage in your commercial building? SERVPRO of Rapid City can help you get dried out quickly.

Water damage is always a threat to your business. Whether you own a small family-owned storefront or run a large warehouse, water damage can make your entire business grind to a halt.

In addition to the frustration that damage can cause, it can also be costly to recover from if the damage is widespread. Thankfully, SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to help!

We Can Help You Recover After a Fire | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

2/11/2023 (Permalink)

For quick repairs following a fire, get in touch with our team at SERVPRO of Rapid City.

Any sort of house disaster can be overwhelming and hard to fully understand in the aftermath. If you are a homeowner, you certainly understand that worry! House fires in particular can be especially destructive and can make a large impact on your family’s lives.

Dealing with the cleanup and restoration on your own can be hard, but thankfully you don’t have to do that! Your SERVPRO of Rapid City team is here for you to help guide you through the process and take over the restoration for you.

Keep Your Home Warm and Fire Safe This Winter | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

1/26/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Rapid City if you experience any smoke, soot or fire damage.

We are in the throes of the winter season here in Rapid City! With the subzero temperatures and a few snowstorms under our belts already, we are all definitely relying on our home’s heat sources to stay warm every day. House fires are more common in winter because of our increased reliance on our furnaces and fireplaces.

It is possible to reduce your risk of experiencing a house fire this season, though! It just takes some extra cleaning and precautions, which we have laid out below.

Keep Your Home Dry This Season | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

1/16/2023 (Permalink)

Have water damage in your home? Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City for quick and professional restoration.

The start of a new year is such a refreshing time. New goals and a brand-new outlook on the season can feel so motivating! In addition to your personal resolutions, adopting some new homeowner strategies can help you avoid the perils of water damage.

Since water damage can occur out of many different accidents or natural disasters, it is important to be prepared for a variety of scenarios.

What’s That Smell? | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

If you experience an odor or any other damage inside your home, call SERVPRO of Rapid City day or night.

Recovering from a disaster is easy when you call SERVPRO of Rapid City! We can handle any home damage you encounter, and we work hard to ensure your project is completed to your satisfaction. In addition to our restoration services, we can also provide your home or business with odor removal!

In the aftermath of a home disaster, it can be easy to overlook any lingering odors. Some may be mild, and others may be hard to place, which makes them that much harder to successfully remove.

Regardless of the odor problem you have, your SERVPRO team is up to the task. Learn more about our odor removal process below!

The Effects of Water Seepage in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

12/9/2022 (Permalink)

if you need help allow us to get rid of your water damage

Water, water, everywhere! We are constantly surrounded by the threat of water damage in our homes, and sometimes it can be hard to pinpoint.

Some signs that you are experiencing water damage in your home include a musty smell, peeling wallpaper or bubbling paint. However, some water damage doesn’t show any signs at all right away.

Spotting a water leak in your home can be tricky if you aren’t sure where to look! We explain what to watch out for when it comes to water issues below.

The Arrival of a Winter Wonderland | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

If you experience damage due to a winter storm, call SERVPRO of Rapid City. We have the experience and equipment for any issue.

Can you believe we are entering the winter season already? It seems like we just conquered last winter’s snow and cold temperatures!

We aren’t strangers to the brutal weather that plagues the Midwest, so we certainly know how to stay safe and warm throughout the season here in Rapid City. It is important to prepare your home now so you are ready to tackle the snow, ice and sleet that is certainly headed our way soon.

<h3around-america">Winter Around America

Get ready because it is predicted to be a cold one this season! As usual, we are expected to experience a cold and snowy winter. Other parts of the United States may have a milder season than normal.

While these predictions can vary from time to time, it is always best to prepare for the worst and hope for the best! We can make it through this chilly season together.

<h3around-rapid-city">Winter Around Rapid City

We are grateful that we get to experience all four seasons here in the Midwest, even during the chilliest parts of the winter season. Our flatter landscape allows for quickly changing conditions and can produce whiteout and blizzard situations easily.

When that happens, travel can be affected and major roadways like I-90 are known to shut down for extended periods of time. Staying safe during these situations is always the most important part of this time of year.

<h3measures-during-wintertime">Protective Measures During Wintertime

Since there are so many different kinds of weather that can affect us here in Rapid City, it is best to be prepared for anything at any time. Blizzards, ice storms and snow can impact travel and work plans quickly.

You should have at least one reliable way to get weather alerts that doesn’t require electricity, like a battery-operated weather radio, stored in your safe shelter location. A fully stocked emergency and medical kit should also be there, along with some canned food.

You never know how long a particular winter storm will last, and it is important to have access to food while you wait for the roads to clear and power to come on.

Are your windows and doors weatherproof? If not, you can be exposed to unwanted moisture, mold growth and a higher energy bill.

Dedicate an afternoon outside to cleaning out your gutters, removing debris from your roof and shutting off water access to your spigots. If you leave them turned on, any water inside the piping system will freeze, expand and potentially burst.

We are ready for you, South Dakota winter! Know that we are just a phone call away if you need assistance. Our ²⁴⁄₇ emergency response ensures that your SERVPRO of Rapid City team is always here for you when you need us.

If you experience damage in a winter storm, call us. We have the experience and equipment to get your home back to normal.

The Hazards of Holiday Decorations | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

Should a fire issue pop-up during this holiday season, SERVPRO of Rapid City will be on call ready to assist.

Believe it or not, the holiday season is nearly upon us once more! Cookies, presents, twinkly lights and traditions with friends and family are all what makes this time of year so special.

Unfortunately, while this season is wonderful, there is also an uptick in the number of house fires across the United States.

Protect Your Business After a Water Damage Disaster | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

10/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City are your local commercial restoration company. We will always be here to help and get you back in business.

If you have ever suffered through water damage before, you fully understand what a headache it can be! Even just an inch of water can cause a costly and extensive cleanup process, and when you are a business owner, that can be detrimental to your livelihood.

Since water is all around us and serves so many purposes in our day-to-day lives, water damage can come from all kinds of sources. Faulty pipes, appliances and sprinkler systems are all common reasons we have seen when businesses suffer damage. We also see damage from Mother Nature often.

We recently just marked 50 years since the 1972 Black Hills flood that decimated our area, so we are fully aware of the dangers that flooding and other water issues can bring to town. Being prepared can help minimize the extent of your damages.

We Are Your Neighborhood Restoration Company | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

No job is too big or small. Call SERVPRO of Rapid City today to schedule your estimate.

When you need a restoration company for a recent disaster or unexpected problem, the quality of work is always important! We are the leaders in water, storm and fire damage cleanup, and we are dedicated to providing quality work, every time.

We also offer more services than just disaster cleanup, too! We can address and treat your mold problem or can provide you with biohazard cleanup like graffiti removal. Whatever job you need help with, we are here for you.

In addition to our quality service, what makes us stand out above the crowd is the fact that we live and work right here in Rapid City!

Protecting Your Home From Lightning Strikes | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

9/19/2022 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with smoke or fire damage from a recent fire, call SERVPRO of Rapid City to learn about a restoration solution for your issue.

You do your best every day to prevent fires in your home by being attentive to any open flame, having working smoke detectors and having a fire extinguisher nearby. But what happens when Mother Nature sparks a fire from a lightning strike? Unfortunately, external fires are much harder to prevent and predict.

In fact, it is actually relatively common to suffer home damage due to a lightning strike. 2020 brought 70,000 damage claims due to lightning. It is definitely a possibility that you will experience a lightning-related fire at some point, so it is important to know how to react when you do.

Specialized and Professional Training

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Rapid City today!

Since 1967, SERVPRO Industries, LLC. has been redefining the mitigation and restoration industries. In addition to training at the regional level, SERVPRO^® developed the National Training Center in 1992 to teach restoration and mitigation skills to franchise owners and insurance industry employees.

Employee Certification Training

A self-paced program designed for the franchise employee. Certification is awarded after successful completion of course materials and an examination. Modules include:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning

New Franchise Training

A 15-day, in-house, hands-on training program at our headquarters training facility. Designed primarily for new franchise owners, but also a valuable course for franchise employees. The program covers all aspects of:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning
• Mold Mitigation

E-Learning

A web-based program designed to be an ongoing, self-paced training program. Video presentations and support materials are followed by a knowledge test at the end of each module.

IICRC Training Program

SERVPRO is an approved IICRC Training School that offers year-around classes in the following categories:

• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Applied Structural Drying
  (in our purpose-built ASD facility)

Continuing Education

SERVPRO offers both credit and noncredit courses for insurance agents, insurance adjusters, real estate professionals and franchise staff. These programs are designed to improve knowledge of emergency mitigation. 

Courses include:

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Understanding Mold in the Restoration Industry
• Restorative Drying for Loss Control
• Mitigation Awareness Response Seminar
  (non-credit course)

Reduce Your Risk of Home Flooding | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

9/7/2022 (Permalink)

Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of Rapid City to get the restoration process started right away.

Flooding is a common issue that homeowners face, but just because it is common, that doesn’t mean it isn’t a headache when it happens! Water damage can result, and it doesn’t even take much water to become an issue.

You can’t rely on the possibility of flood insurance or federal aid as some instances will leave you without coverage, so it is necessary to do what you can ahead of time to prevent lasting damages to your home and property.

Flooding can affect us in every season in Rapid City. We are located far enough north to be at risk of melting snow in the springtime and severe weather and heavy rains in the summer and fall.

3 Major Storm Threats to Your Home | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Rapid City your first call.

Whenever you get a severe weather alert on your phone or from our local weather channels, it can be nerve-wracking! Storms can cause widespread damage if they are severe enough, and no one wants to be on the receiving end of storm damage.

Wind, water and impact damages are some of the most common storm damage complaints we see, so let’s unpack the risks associated with all three!

It’s never a guarantee that you will experience damages after a storm, just like you can’t be sure that your home will be fine. Whenever Mother Nature is involved, there is risk for damage. It all depends on the strength of the storm, your location in town and the materials with which your house was constructed.

In Rapid City, we see severe thunderstorms, tornadoes and winter storms throughout the changing seasons. When it comes to each system, it is important to have a plan in place!

Wind

Wind associated with tornadoes can cause some of the most widespread damages, but so can straight-line winds from thunderstorms! If the downburst of wind is strong enough, wind speeds can easily reach over 100 mph.

When wind blows that quickly, it can bend trees with ease and throw around heavy objects without much trouble. And the wind itself can rip shingles off the roof. If an incoming storm comes with a wind advisory, it is best to stay inside and away from windows in order to stay safe.

If you are given enough of a heads-up before the storm hits, take the time to clear any yard hazards like dead branches or tree limbs and tie down that patio furniture or pull it into your garage. Removing any potential hazards can help you avoid damages!

Water

No one wants water in their home, and that’s especially true when it comes to water damage after storms! Basement flooding can be catastrophic, and it can also be a perfect environment for mold to grow.

If you choose to do any landscaping close to your home, make sure that it is angled away from your foundation so that water doesn’t flow backward into your basement. You can also research what it takes to build a rain garden in your yard to help encourage water to flow into a productive place!

Keep your gutters clear and properly functioning as well. If your gutters get backed up, the water will pool up on your roof and can seep into the eaves of your house.

Impact

Perhaps the scariest of all is “impact damage.” If large trees or other heavy outdoor objects get tossed into your house or roof, it can be incredibly destructive and costly.

Do your best to keep your property clear of any obvious hazards and remove any dead or dying trees promptly. Doing these things won’t eliminate your risk of impact damages, but it can significantly reduce it.

If you do suffer storm damages, the cost to overcome them can be severe. In 2021 alone, Americans experienced $145 billion in damages. That’s painful for your house and your wallet!

At SERVPRO of Rapid City, we are your trusted professionals when it comes to storm damage repair. Call us day or night, and we will be there for you to get started on your restoration right away.

When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get your storm damage restoration started faster.

Choose SERVPRO for Your Restoration Needs | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

No matter what type of disaster you face, SERVPRO of Rapid City is only a phone call away.

We are an independently owned and operated SERVPRO location, so we fully understand the unique struggles business owners deal with on a day-to-day basis. In addition to the intricacies of running a business, having to plan for potential disasters can seem overwhelming as well.

Predicting natural disasters and severe weather isn’t a perfect science, but being prepared for them can help you be ready to tackle any storm or situation.

In addition to sustaining potential damages to your business, the reality of suffering damages to your home is also a possibility. Regardless of your situation, we are here to help.

The first step to preparing your household or business is to create an emergency plan. Creating an emergency plan can help you be ready for any sort of weather we encounter in Rapid City.

When creating an emergency plan, doing some research about what could affect us here can also be beneficial. The American Red Cross has built an informative website that gathers data across the region that can help you prepare for different scenarios. In addition, the South Dakota Department of Public Safety has an emergency preparedness website that can help you plan for your response to severe weather more locally.

You are likely to experience some sort of storm damage in your lifetime. In each case, it is crucial to start any sort of needed restoration quickly to make sure that there are no long term damages or issues down the road.

Backyard Fires & Fun This Summer | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire or smoke damage, contact SERVPRO of Rapid City.

The summer months are sacred in the Midwest, and it is no different here in Rapid City. Spending quality time with family in your backyard enjoying bonfires, barbecues and s’mores can make for precious seasonal memories.

We utilize fire often with all kinds of summer activities. We light campfires, grill out for dinner and burn yard debris often—and we need a reliable fire for all of these things.

However, even if we are being responsible with our fire use, there is always the risk of sparking an unwanted fire. The National Park Service estimates that about 85% of wildfires are started by humans.

Armed with this knowledge, you should still be able to enjoy a responsible campfire at Canyon Lake Park, enjoy a summer barbecue or burn your leaf-drop in the fall. You just need to adopt some safe fire practices and you can continue the fun.

Home Restoration Experts

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

Call the experts today at SERVPRO Rapid City

No one ever wants to think about a fire impacting their home, but it happens all too often. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute, one out of every 350 American homeowners files a fire-related claim every year.

And fires aren’t the only reasons that people file claims with their home insurance. Each year, around one out of every 20 American homeowners will file some type of claim, whether related to fire, water damage or even a tree falling on the home.

When disaster strikes, you’ll need a restoration provider you can count on. That’s SERVPRO. Read on to learn why.

Why You Should Choose SERVPRO of Rapid City

When you’re choosing a restoration provider, there are many factors to consider. You logically want a provider that offers state-of-the-art technology and the latest procedures to help restore your property and belongings.

But what truly sets one restoration provider apart from another? It’s the people.

At SERVPRO of Rapid City, we believe we have the best technicians in the business. Not only are they a group of seasoned professionals armed with empathy and compassion for the circumstances you’re facing, but they’re also highly trained.

Our entire technician team goes through intensive training related to all types of home restoration. This includes internal SERVPRO-specific training, but also highly specialized certifications from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. The IICRC is the industry standard for best practices related to restoration.

In other words, when you work with SERVPRO, you should feel certain that your home is in the hands of the best of the best!

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available 24⁄7 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Understanding Different Storm Alerts | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

If you suspect any damage to your home from a recent storm, call SERVPRO of Rapid City.

Did you know that there are 42 different kinds of weather alerts that can be issued for a variety of different weather scenarios? All of the alerts are also broken down into different subcategories as well.

When you are in the midst of a severe storm or potentially dangerous situation, knowing how to respond to various weather alerts is incredibly important.

Thankfully, we don’t need to know about each of the 42 alerts, as we are landlocked and don’t have marine or tropical storm threats here in Rapid City. However, it is important to know the few threats that are the most common in the Midwest so that you can be prepared for any type of severe weather scenario.

Commercial Property Damage Risks | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

6/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is your local commercial disaster team. Contact us to learn more about our commercial damage restoration services.

Businesses make up the backbone of our country, our town and our livelihood. Whether you work for one, own one or have a favorite Rapid City business, their existence is important to our daily lives.

If you are a business owner, you know that operating the day-to-day and solving problems comes with the territory of being your own boss. However, that also means you have to be the one that handles things when disaster strikes from either water or storm damage.

When talking about the sheer cost of damages, it has become much more expensive to recover from damages over the last five years. On average in that time period, disasters cost the United States $158 billion annually, which is a significant increase in cost compared to previous years.

In Rapid City, we witness severe storms, tornadoes and floods on a regular basis. This past fall, we suffered through a large storm system that brought hail damage to a local campground. While the recovery process happened eventually for them, it was still taxing on their business.

The most likely cause of damages for commercial properties include water damage and storm damage. The better prepared you are for these possibilities, the better equipped you will be to handle them.

Preventing Home Fires Starts With You | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration need.

With the first few months of 2022 under our belts, the American Red Cross has already responded to more than 20,000 house fires. That number only represents a portion of the house fires that have actually occurred in the United States so far this year.

You can reduce the risk of death and total fire destruction most reliably by having fully functioning smoke detectors in your home. Once you have your smoke detector installed, you can also do a few other things around your home to help minimize the risk of a home fire.

Do You Have a Storm Safety Plan? | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Rapid City right away.

Severe weather can be very frightening. When weather brings lightning, heavy rain, damaging winds and hail, it can be dangerous to your home and to your personal well-being. Plus, considering that there are around 100,000 thunderstorms throughout the United States every year, storms are common.

The unique topography of the Black Hills can spin off tornadoes and help kickstart severe weather when the cool air is disrupted. In fact, the Rapid City area is known for some unusual weather patterns. When the weather can change quickly like this, it is more important than ever to be sky-aware.

While we know that we cannot control the weather, we can be prepared for it! Having an emergency kit, a communications strategy and a plan for dealing with the aftermath of the storm are all types of things you can do to be prepared for the impact on your home and your life.

<h3severe-weather-communication-strategy">Your Severe Weather Communication Strategy

Having a way to communicate with your family is incredibly important during severe weather, and you should always have a way to receive communications from the news or city authorities. It is also important to know the difference between watches and warnings so you can know whether to simply be aware of your surroundings or take shelter immediately.

Secondly, you should have have multiple ways to receive alerts from officials, like your cellphone and an NOAA weather radio.

Lastly, make sure you have a communication strategy for your household. Locate a specific location in your home that will be your safe area (like a basement or a fully enclosed room) that everyone knows is the place to go to when the weather becomes severe. Additionally, make sure you have a plan in place to communicate with family members who are away from your home during and after the storm so you can reconnect quickly when it is over.

<h3should-be-in-your-emergency-kit">What Should Be in Your Emergency Kit?

Plan to pack the essentials that your family will need to sustain them for at least 72 hours of sheltering, and it should be packed and ready to use in your designated safe shelter area of your home. You should have nonperishable food, water, first-aid supplies and a flashlight with extra batteries.

You should also have anything else your family needs to be safe and comfortable, like daily medication or something that is necessary but would not always be easily accessible.

<h3severe-weather-aftermath-checklist">Your Severe Weather Aftermath Checklist

After the severe weather has passed, it is a good idea to review your safety plan and make any necessary changes, as well as assess any damage done to your home. Once it is safe to do so, check your property for damage.

Take a look around at your roof and the seals around your windows and doors, as these areas are the most likely to suffer water damage.

If you do discover damage, calling us at SERVPRO of Rapid City is the necessary first step. We are the trusted team of professionals who will be sure to provide you with a quick response and a reliable timeline to begin the restoration process in your home.

When your household is all together again after the storm has passed, do an audit of your safety plan. Discuss what worked and what needs to be adjusted, repack your emergency kit and edit anything that wasn’t beneficial to your process. Those adjustments will make sure you are better prepared for the next time you encounter severe weather.

If you discover storm damage to your home or business, you can count on SERVPRO to handle the restoration. We’re here ²⁴⁄₇ to spring into action—get in touch with us today.

The Quick Destruction of Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is your 24/7 water restoration expert. Call us right away if you need immediate service.

Do you have a faucet in your home that sometimes drips? What about a small spot of residual water damage from a troublesome dishwasher? Small instances of water damage can often be overlooked, but they can actually cause long-term and costly damage in your home.

An average household leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water in a year.

Water damage can progress quickly through walls, floors and softer surfaces in your home. It is crucial to recognize the damage and act accordingly to give your home the best chance of drying out in a timely manner.

Here’s a quick rundown of the timeline to water damage in your home:

Unexpected dangers of a leaky roof

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

If your roof is leaking call our techs at SERVPRO today!

Roof leaks are detrimental to your home or business. Left untreated, leaking roofs can cause major issues and costly repairs. When it rains, water can seep into the roof, dripping water to the floor as well as eventually resulting in other complications. Thankfully, by being proactive, you can prevent these issues or address them before they become major problems. Here are some unexpected dangers of a leaky roof and how you can stay one step ahead.

LEAKY ROOFS CAN CAUSE MOLD

Mold is one of the most common unexpected dangers of a leaky roof. You may think that some water on the floor isn’t a big deal, but once mold sets in, it can quickly move to other areas of your home, even if the water hasn’t reached that far. Mold spores can be carried through your HVAC system and may result in serious health complications for you and your family. To make matters worse, you may not even be able to see the mold if it’s hidden deep inside your vents or walls. If you have a leaky roof or you spot mold in your home, reach out to a mold remediation company immediately to assess the severity and possible risk to you and your family.

YOUR FRAMES MAY START ROTTING

As water leaks into your home, it sets into your framing. Over time this will cause it to deteriorate and rot. Since most wood inside your home isn’t treated the way outdoor wood is, it can’t handle repeat exposure to moisture. Unfortunately, if you see signs of water in your home, such as ceiling spots or water dripping, then it’s probably already an issue in your home’s framing. You can fix your framing by hiring a professional contractor to drain the water, dry out the framing, and assess the structural integrity of your home. 

DAMAGED INSULATION

Since most water leaks come from the roof, it stands to reason that your attic will be one of the first areas impacted. As water enters your attic, it will cause your insulation to clump up and stop working the way it’s supposed to. Not only will this make your home cold in the winter and hot in the summer, but it will cause your energy bill to skyrocket as your HVAC system won’t be able to keep up anymore. 

SAGGING DRYWALL

Drywall is a great building material, and it’s often used to separate your home’s rooms with walls. However, it’s not supposed to get wet, and leaking roofs can cause unnecessary damage to your drywall. Once water enters your home through a leaky roof, it will steadily drip down and soak into your drywall. This will cause it to become soggy, and it may buckle or fall apart in extreme cases.

Leaky roofs are serious complications, but normal repairs are necessary as your roof deteriorates over time. While repairing your roof may not be a cost you were expecting, it’s far more affordable to address your roof issue than to wait for other related issues to escalate. Don’t let the rain get the best of your home. Hire a professional disaster management recovery group to take a look at your roof and help get your house back into working order.

WHAT IS OUR MISSION?

SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to assess your storm damage and determine the next step. If you need a roofing evaluation or have suffered exterior damage due to storms or other natural disasters, contact us today @ 605-388-3000 and schedule a storm damage evaluation and start on the road to recovery.

Smoke stains: when you need a professional

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Call our techs at SERVPRO today!

Smoke stinks in more way than one. The odors aren’t just gross, they can cause dangerous health problems. From a smoky kitchen to a full-on fire, your home can become subject to smoke stains. Not only can smoke weaken the structure of your home, but it can also damage your lungs. Here's what you should look out for in regards to smoke stains in your home.

The Cleaning Process

Smoke damage cleaning is an extensive process. When a fire breaks out, many chemical reactions occur. Each and every material in your home reacts differently when in flames; hence, they produce different types of smoke.

There are two common types of smoke. Dry smoke results from burning wood. It leaves grey, dry, powdery soot behind that is far easier to clean than wet smoke. Wet smoke is black in color and leaves a thick, oily residue that can easily smear during clean-up. You will need professional assistance when dealing with both dry and wet smoke, as both pose potential health risks.

Professional fire restoration begins with removing visible soot. Chemical treatments are then used to clean and remove any non-visible residue. Cleaning walls and ceilings can be difficult, or impossible, for homeowners to do on their own—always hire a professional.

What You Can Do?

After a fire, there are ways you can restore some items yourself! When cleaning affected clothing after a home fire, be mindful of the potential health risks. You absolutely can DIY this; however, use safety goggles, protective gloves, and a breathing mask before you attempt to clean anything that has been damaged by smoke.

Use a vacuum hose to remove soot from clothing and fabric-covered furniture. Make sure you hold the hose slightly away from whatever you are cleaning to avoid smearing or smushing the soot further. Once the soot is removed, the odor needs to be eliminated.

Smoke odor can be masked, but this is only a temporary solution. Surprisingly, a dry cleaner is not the best option here. In this case, you are actually the best person for the job! Studies have shown that dry cleaning is less effective than at-home cleaning when it comes to restoring color and eliminating odors from your clothing. Four to five cycles in your washing machine, with warm water and liquid detergent, should mostly restore clothing if soot is completely removed first.

Smoke damage to your home can be dangerous to your health and the structure of your property. If your home has smoke stains, call SERVPRO of Rapid City, at (605) 388-3000.

Is your restoration contractor EPA certified?

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Call our techs at SERVPRO today!

Is your restoration contractor EPA certified and familiar with RRP activity’s, rules and regulations? Lead is very toxic and if your property was built prior to 1980 it would be a good idea to have it tested by a qualified environmentalist. When dealing with properties across Los Angeles that have suffered mold damage, water damage, fire and smoke damage we make sure all steps are taken to insure everyone’s safety is made priority, and when hazards like lead are introduced to the work areas it’s our job to execute protocols to bring the property back to its preloss condition minus the hazardous materials.

SCHEDULE A RESTORATION CONSULTATION

 SERVPRO of Rapid City is a top rated restoration company proudly serving the Rapid City and surrounding areas. Our 1st priority is getting you back on track and restoring your property in a timely matter. This includes having our entire team of professionals help you throughout the process. Call us (605) 388-3000 to schedule a consultation.

Property owners: how to avoid a lot of issues that cost a lot of money

BEING A PROPERTY OWNER COMES WITH HUGE RESPONSIBILITIES AND MANY OF THEM INVOLVE MONEY.

Yes, being a property owner can be expensive, especially if you are spending your money is costly repairs instead of investing it in maintaining your property. While you may be wondering, what is the difference: spending money in repairs vs. maintenance? Ultimately, the difference is the amount of money you will spend and the surprises you will encountered. While not all issues can be avoided, following the tips below will help prevent damages and save you a lot of money in the long-run.

A Few Examples to Prevent a Fire

Regularly clean out the lint trap in your dryer

Keep a fire extinguisher (Class K: Cooking Oils) in kitchen

Clean the air ducts of your dryer, annually

Inspect the oil in your furnace, annually

A Few Examples to Prevent Mold

Check your plumbing regularly to detect early signs of leaks

Regularly clean your roof gutters

Inspect your roof to ensure water has not seeped

Regularly clean or replace your HVAC filters

OVERALL, REGULARLY CHECKING UP ON THINGS IS KEY.

It can lower the chances of exposing your property to dangers such as, leaks, mold, and or fire. While investing in the maintenance of your property may cost you a few hundred dollars a year (or less if done by you), neglecting your property altogether will cost you thousands of dollars, headaches, and unexpected ongoing expenses. Therefore, become familiar with the “Hidden Dangers in Your House” and consider following these tips. In the end, you may save money and your property altogether.

SCHEDULE A RESTORATION CONSULTATION

SERVPRO of Rapid City provides24 hour emergency restoration services for residential and commercial properties. We are a top rated water removal and mold remediation company proudly serving the Rapid City and surrounding areas.

SERVPRO Has the Restoration Experts You Can Trust | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

No matter the damage sustained, SERVPRO of Rapid City has the tools and team to help your home return to a normal state quickly.

Here at SERVPRO, we offer more than cleanup, restoration and construction services. We are proud to offer the community of Rapid City disaster relief cleanup and resistance when you need it most.

<h2damage">Water Damage

Whether it be due to a change in season or a burst pipe in your home, flooding can occur at any time without warning. Untreated water issues can cause serious damage in your home or business.

In fact, floods cause more than $10 billion in damages nationwide every year.

Thankfully, SERVPRO has the knowledge, staff and proper equipment to quickly diagnose any sort of water issue and start treating the cause right away. We will help you dry out your space, investigate how it happened and take the appropriate steps to ensure the damage is reversed and your home is brought back to its preloss condition.

As the temperatures rise in Rapid City and we start to thaw out from the long winter, the warmer weather can quickly cause unexpected water issues in and around your home.

Be sure to check for water and moisture often, and address any issues you notice right away. If you do encounter flooding issues, SERVPRO has the tools to help. We will help you understand the severity of the flooding and subsequent damage so that you can make informed decisions for cleanup and restoration.

We’ll also assist you in developing a water damage restoration plan to ensure your home is clean, dry and restored to our standard of its preloss condition. Our goal is always ensure the flooding issue is resolved and provide you with the resources needed so it does not happen again.

<h2damage">Fire Damage

A fire department in the United States responds to a fire every 23 seconds, and there was roughly $8.1 billion in direct property damage and losses nationwide in 2020. If your home or business has sustained fire damage, we’ll jump right into action with our seven-step restoration process.

This starts with an inspection and damage assessment, and we make sure that you understand each step of the process as we work on the repair process.

<h2damage">Storm Damage

Living in the Midwest, we understand that midwest weather can bring floods, wildfires, tornadoes and blizzards (sometimes it seems like that could all happen in one day). Whatever the weather and whatever the time of day, we are here to help.

Tornado and flood damage can affect the very structure of your home, but this kind of damage can affect your personal belongings as well. SERVPRO offers content restoration cleaning with the intention of restoring your precious possessions instead of replacing them.

We offer dry cleaning, wet cleaning, foam cleansing and abrasive cleaning, as well as move-out services in case more intensive cleaning is needed to finalize a restoration.

<h2sets-SERVPRO-apart">What Sets SERVPRO Apart?

We are available ²⁴⁄₇ and we want you to call us day or night when you need our services.

Disasters and accidents don’t wait until the morning or a weekday, so we don’t either. When you call, a SERVPRO expert will answer our ²⁴⁄₇ Emergency Line and you will receive high-quality assistance right away.

When you see our expert technicians in the big green trucks around Rapid City, we want you to know that the No. 1 cleanup and restoration team in the nation is here to help. We have over 50 years experience, and our location is locally owned and operated.

We also have 1,900 other locations across the United States that we can tap into in an emergency, so we have national resources and local passion. Sleep easy at night knowing that our team here in Rapid City is ready to help you after a disaster or an accident. We pride ourselves in getting you back to “Like it never even happened."

Regardless of the type of damage sustained, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when you need a dependable team to help you rebuild your life.

Do you have coverage for a water disaster?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

When water damages your home call SERVPRO of Rapid City at (605)-388-3000.

Water damage sets you back badly if you were not prepared for it. For this reason, you need to ensure that you are covered against such issues. While you can get water damage insurance, certain scenarios will not be covered by your insurance. To help you with this, here is everything you need to know about water damage insurance.

What is Water Damage Insurance?

Water damage is insurance money that is paid out when your house is affected by water damage. It helps deal with the pairs. While companies like Water Damage America come in and help restore your home, insurance companies ensure there are enough funds for the home restoration.

Situations Where Water Damage Insurance Works

There are situations where insurance companies will pay for the damages caused to your home. Here are the situations when your insurance will pay for your water damage:

Accidental leaks- Insurance will take care of leaks from pipes and broken washers that cause water damage.

Burst pipes- Water damage from burst pipes due to frozen pipes and any other incident will be covered

Damage from fires- If the water was used to put out a fire and caused damage to your property, the damage will be insured.

Roof leaks- If there was water damage to the interior of your house because of a roof leak, that would be catered to by insurance. The only thing you need to ensure is the leak was not caused by a fallen tree or a caved-in roof that was not fixed.

Water damage from storms like heavy and sudden rain,

Ice dam- Insurance will cover ice dams built in your gutter in cold months. If these ice dams result from neglect, you will not get them fixed.

Situations When Water Damage Will Not be Covered by Insurance

There are also times when your insurance will not work for water damage. Knowing about these will help you be careful with the care you give your home and figure out when you can rely on insurance and when to deal with it independently. Here are the situations where insurance will not cover water damage:

Flood damage. Any damage caused by extreme flooding will not be covered

Water damage is caused by negligence or lack of maintenance. If your home gets water damaged because you did not fix leaks when they occurred or did not carry out regular checks, then this will not be covered

Damage for intentional acts. If you set your ho on fire or turn off the heat in winter, then you will not be compensated for whatever damage

Water damage from backup sewer lines. You need to get a proper cover for that

Cost of repairing source. No compensation will be given for a broken heater or washer

Knowing what is covered in water damage will ensure you stay vigilant for your home. Ensure you look after everything, and that way, in case of an issue, you will be compensated. If you have water damage in your home, contact the experts at SERVPRO.

Do you know what to do when lightening strikes?!

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the trusted team at SERVPRO Rapid City Contact us 24/7 at (605) 388-3000 today for help in such situations

After a storm has passed through our community or neighborhood - especially a strong one that causes damage it can take you off guard. After the storm has passed and when it is safe it is important to assess the property to determine if damage has occurred and get started with any potential cleanup and restoration. SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to help with your Storm Damage Repair.

Below is some helpful information about different types of storms that can bring on damage to your property and how you may be able to protect its value.

Winter Storm Damage

Winter Storms not only wreck havoc but also can cause the formation of Ice Dams. Ice dams are caused by heavy snowfall or ice build-up on your roof. These can go undetected and cause many problems, not the least of which is water damage in addition to structural deterioration and leaks. When water builds up in an ice dam, it backs up under shingles, leaks into a house, and causes major water damage to your property.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are a problem for several different reasons. While not only creating an inconvenience - more seriously it can cause major damage to your home or business. If you see visible frost on the outside of your exposed pipes, detect slow or uneven water flow across your property, or feel your walls getting damp, it's critical that you act fast. Even if your pipes haven't entirely burst, it's a good idea to reach out to a restoration expert to prevent any further damage.

Storm-Related Flood Damage

The Government agency to which tracks annually losses from storms - Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reported that storm based flooding and hurricane force winds in 2019 in the U.S. totaled a staggering $9 billion to commercial businesses alone. When severe weather strikes, you'll want to inspect your commercial property's ceilings, walls, flooring, kitchen cabinets, and contents (furniture and clothing) as soon as possible. Water damage may cause significant issues in the future if left unchecked.

6 Helpful Tips to Prevent Mold from Forming in Your Home

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City provides top-quality mold remediation services. We offer safe and eco-friendly solutions to ensure your home will be safe, all f

relaxation your home brings.

Mold can grow and thrive in places where you least expect it. Some signs of mold are visible, but others are not. Not only is it an eyesore, but also a health hazard.  As a result, it's crucial to prevent mold from your home at all costs.

In this article, we list down easy ways to prevent the formation of mold in your home. Read on below to get started.

#1 - Identify Mold Hotspots

It's difficult to prevent mold from your home if you don't know where it's coming from. Before you start taking proactive measures to prevent mold, you need to know where it hides out.

Here are some areas in your home where mold can thrive:

Behind your walls

Behind your dishwasher

Under the sink

The corners of your bathroom

Pots and pans in low cabinets

Ceilings

Basements

If you want to prevent mold from your home, you should regularly check these spots.

#2 - Dry Any Wet Area in Your Home

Even if you're not seeing any signs of mold in your home, you should always keep it dry. Moisture is a breeding ground for mold. For this reason, you should regularly dry up wet areas in your home.

The best way to dry up wet areas is by using a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier will absorb excess moisture in the air. In addition, this device also cleans the air in your home and purifies it.

#3 - Ensure Your Home Has Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation ensures that the air in your home is well-circulated. It helps to promote the flow of fresh air. This is important because mold thrives in stagnant areas.

Make sure you don't put anything blocking the airflow of your vents. If you want to prevent mold from your home, you should also ensure that your doors and windows are open at least once a week. Additionally, you should also replace your furnace filters regularly. This will help your furnace and air conditioner to circulate air in your home.

#4 - Install Mold-Resistant Products

Your home has a lot of products that are prone to mold. To prevent mold from your home, you should buy products made of mold-resistant material. For example, you can replace your shower curtain after a month of use. Additionally, you should replace these products regularly to ensure that they‘re in good condition.

#5 - Clean or Repair Your Roof Gutters

If your roof gutters are leaking, water will collect in them. Water accumulation in your gutters can then become a breeding ground for mold.

The best way to prevent mold from your gutters is by using a gutter guard. This tool will prevent water from building up in your gutter. It also ensures a proper flow of water in your gutter.

#6 - Keep Your Carpets Clean

Carpets are one of the most common sources of mold in the home. To prevent mold from your carpets, you should regularly clean and vacuum them at least once a week. After vacuuming, you should use a carpet shampooer to clean your carpets.

Conclusion

Mold is a natural phenomenon. However, it can cause so many health problems. Many people don't realize that it's essential to prevent mold from your home until they experience it. With the tips above, you can prevent mold growth in your home.

SERVPRO Can Clean Your Commercial Property

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

You can rely on our team to make your workspace look its very best.

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Rapid City for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on our team to make your workspace look its very best.

Specialty Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Rapid City offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

Air Ducts and HVAC

Biohazard and Sewage

Trauma and Crime Scene

Carpet and Upholstery

Drapes and Blinds

Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Vandalism

If your commercial property needs assistance with cleaning services, SERVPRO is the company to call

SERVPRO Can Clean Your Commercial Property

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

You can rely on our team to make your workspace look its very best.

You don’t have time to worry about the common wear and tear that gradually soils your office. When grime, odor, and moisture challenges go beyond the scope of your regular janitorial staff, you should call SERVPRO of Rapid City for prompt service. Whether it’s removing an odor problem or deep cleaning flooring or carpets, you can rely on our team to make your workspace look its very best.

Specialty Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of Rapid City offers cleaning services ranging from cleaning restaurant hoods to removing biohazard contaminants. We have the specialized training and products to get your property back to business. Our cleaning services include the following:

Air Ducts and HVAC

Biohazard and Sewage

Trauma and Crime Scene

Carpet and Upholstery

Drapes and Blinds

Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Vandalism

If your commercial property needs assistance with cleaning services, SERVPRO is the company to call.

SERVPRO Is The Only Way To Go After A Disaster

4/8/2022 (Permalink)

In times of disaster SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to help. Call us today (605) 388-3000.

When a disaster hits, whether it's a hurricane, a fire, or anything else, the damage to your house may be terrible. And it isn't easy to know where to start and how to put the parts back together. The notion of cleaning up after a disaster can be debilitating if your house has sustained considerable damage. And this is why SERVPRO restoration is your best bet at restoring your property to its original state. We are available 24/7 to handle every restoration process. So, trust us to get the work done perfectly.

Here are the reasons to hire SERVPRO restoration and clean up company for a complete restoration

We handle smoke and fire damage.

Smoke damage doesn't appear to be that terrible at first glance. A common assumption is that you can use an ordinary home cleaner to remove any stains or markings. It's not only about what you can see that's at risk from smoke damage; it might also be about what you can't see. Even your house's most minor cracks and crevices may become breeding grounds for smoke particles. And aside from irritating your respiratory system, smoke particles can also create health issues if not removed correctly. However, trust us to handle any fire and smoke damages.

We handle Flood damage.

Damage to your house can be substantial in the event of flooding occurs. They also pose a risk of secondary damage, such as mold, to your property. Your home may be restored to its preloss condition with the help of a SERVPRO restoration and clean-up company.

We guarantee your safety.

Regardless of the type of damage you've suffered due to a natural disaster, the most important thing to remember is to stay safe. Damage to your home could be a ticking time bomb just waiting to explode if you don't have a professional inspect it. And so, our team of restoration experts do all it takes to ensure your safety.

Providing The Best Care For Your Contents

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides contents restoration after fire damage has taken place on your property.

When it comes to dealing with your home, SERVPRO of Rapid City takes the utmost care of your personal belongings and keepsakes, especially when a devastating event such as a fire has taken place. Our SERVPRO technicians are equipped with the tools and equipment to safely clean the smoke and soot from your affected belongings as well as drying out the moisture from the water used to extinguish any flames or hot spots.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO aims to help you save money by restoring your belongings rather than replacing them, which can get rather costly. Through our processes, we determine which items we can restore to its previous conditions. We make sure to take the best care of your items as we know your prized possessions and keepsakes hold sentimental value to you and yours.

The 4 Main Causes of 3 Types of Flooding | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Rapid City has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.

As the most common and the most deadly type of natural disaster, flooding is an extremely important thing to be aware of. In the United States, it causes more deaths than any other disaster, including hurricanes and tornadoes, and leaves a large amount of damage behind where it occurs.

Flooding can occur nearly anywhere throughout the world, but the majority of floods have similar causes and fall into similar categories. Today we will look at the three main categories of floods, as well as their four typical causes.

A Business Partnership You Didn’t Know You Had | SERVPRO? of Rapid City

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City are your local commercial restoration experts. Contact us today should you experience any damage.

As a business owner, you can control your own destiny, but you also have the responsibility of dealing with the many challenges that come with owning your own business. Things such as disruptions or losses can cause mass chaos for commercial properties.

What you probably didn’t realize is that with SERVPRO of Rapid City right here in the neighborhood, you have a built-in partner for all cleanup or recovery needs that may arise. We aim to help you carry any burden caused by a disaster or emergency.

Large loss recovery. You might not be aware, but fire, storms and flooding are among the top causes of financial loss for businesses here in the United States. These types of incidents can cause major amounts of damage, especially if they aren’t dealt with in a timely manner. Because we deal with these things on a regular basis, we understand that you need help, and you need it now, which is why we are available ²⁴⁄₇.

Emergency Ready Plan. Being proactive not only saves you time but also money. And our goal is to help you be so prepared that when an emergency of any kind arises, you will know exactly how to respond. We will help you create an Emergency Ready Plan to identify an emergency chain of command, temporary vendors to use during a crisis and so much more! 

Cleaning of All Kinds. We can handle specialty needs like safe biohazard removal as well as general needs like carpet cleaning. We have a cleaning solution for every situation, no matter the commercial business you are in.

Restoration Services. Accidents or disasters happen—storms cause damage, busted pipes occur, machines catch fire. No matter what happens, it’s likely going to need restoration. No one can do this better, faster or as efficiently as SERVPRO of Rapid City. You can count on us to get the job done and have your business back to preloss status in no time.

Industry Specialization. We train our technicians on every in and out of the commercial world. Whatever specific or unique need your business might have, we can tackle the cleanup or restoration. In most cases, we also try and enclose the work area to keep from disrupting your business.

Whatever your recovery need may be, and whatever your commercial property may require, trust SERVPRO to get the job done. Contact us today to get started on an Emergency Ready Plan or find out how we can serve your business.

Weather Hazards That Happen During Spring | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of Rapid City is a click away if you experience any damage.

While Russia and Canada are the biggest nations in the world, the United States follows close behind in second.

When a territory is large, it can mean that seasonal weather is different for each region! And different weather patterns are known to create different weather threats.

As the spring season is drawing near, it’s important to understand what distinct weather events can happen in certain regions of the United States. Read on to get a good look.

The Pacific Northwest is likely to experience heavy rain during the spring months, which can cause flooding and water damage. Higher elevation areas might still be dealing with snow or ice melting, which can cause problems of its own.

The Upper Midwest and Northeast, including us here in Rapid City, deal with the cold winter weather longer than most everyone else! Residents from Maine to the Dakotas will experience extreme cold and even still deal with snowstorms or blizzards up until early summer. We’re quite familiar with the lingering cold and threat of winter precipitation even when it’s officially spring.

The West Coast, on the other hand, has to be aware of excessive heat waves. These can endanger lives and safety, and the intense heat combined with dry conditions can be a fire hazard, too.

The Midwest has its own set of weather hazards in spring. States from Iowa to Texas will have to watch for windstorms, derechos and the risk of wildfires. The wildfires can be easily spread because of the wind and dry season that the middle part of the United States experiences. This area is also home to “Tornado Alley,” where a large proportion of tornadoes occur.

Last, but certainly not least, you have the Southeast. They experience a wide range of severe weather of all kinds, including thunderstorms and tornadoes. States bordering the coast also have to watch for rip currents and early-season hurricanes.

As you can see, it doesn’t matter where you live here in the United States, the threat of extreme weather is real. The weather in Rapid City is clearly going to be much different than those who live on the West Coast. That’s why you must always stay prepared, no matter the season.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

SERVPRO is Here to Help with Water Damage

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Gillette, Sheridan has responded to apartment complexes that suffered from a toilet bowl overflow on the 4^th floor. Not only did the water migrate throughout the 4^th floor apartment, affecting 3 of 5 rooms, but it wicked through the drywall and ceilings of the 3^rd and 2^nd floor apartments directly below. Each unit had less affected rooms than the source unit due to the quick response of our Nationally Certified Technicians and knowing where the water shut off was.

Working floor by floor, our technicians quickly devised a plan for drying purposes in order to lessen the water migration of the already affected materials. Working with each tenant, yes, the units were occupied, they took great care of the contents within each unit.

No matter the size of damage or the size of property, our highly trained technicians can create and execute any plan to mitigate water damage. Our goal is to do as little demolition as possible, but there are instances that cannot be avoided. Once we have finalized the execution of removing affected materials and properly drying materials that were not so affected, we can then send our repairs team in and let them do their magic work.

If you are a property manager or owner and find your property suffering from water or fire damage be sure to call SERVPRO of Gillette, Sheridan (307) 228-1559.

Preparing an Emergency Ready Plan for Your Business | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

If the day comes where your business is hit with disaster or emergency, you can rest assured SERVPRO of Rapid City will be there to help.

When you own and operate a business, you have so many things on your to-do list. But even as you take care of day-to-day responsibilities, don’t forget about emergency preparations.

As scary as it may sound, there are many times it only takes one disruption to take a business down for good! In fact, according to FEMA, 40% of small businesses don’t reopen after a natural disaster, and sadly, a quarter of those that do reopen are forced to close their doors with a year.

While business owners have to concern themselves with weather events or emergencies, they now also have to consider pandemic shutdowns. Because of these things, it’s important to have a plan in place, so that if something were to strike your business, you would know where to go from there. Three-quarters of all small businesses don’t have a plan in place, and it’s time that we make a change!

SERVPRO is proud to help our local communities like, Rapid City, Wasta, Pedro and Quinn, along with so many others, prepare an Emergency Ready Plan. SERVPRO believes in loving and helping your neighbors, and that’s what will do!

Whether you need document or data recovery or help from a natural disaster, we have got you covered! We work to ensure that you, your employees and your business are emergency ready! If the time comes that you have to “go,” you will know that your company can handle it with grace, rather than chaos.

Disaster planning can be easy, especially with the help of your local SERVPRO experts. We can help you make the difference for your business and your employees! So no matter the type of disaster or accident that strikes your business, you can rest assured knowing that you will be in good hands. The hardest part for you, is to make the call to us!

When your business is ready to prioritize planning and safety to prevent extended downtime, contact SERVPRO to get the Emergency Ready Plan underway from the folks who know all there is to know about disaster and recovery.

Let’s Talk About “Full Service” in Restoration Services | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

When you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO of Rapid City to get the job done.

f you see a big green SERVPRO truck coming through your neighborhood, you can gather that something has happened to a neighbor’s home or business.

While most people recognize us for the cleaning that we do, we are also proud to say that we offer full-service restoration and reconstruction for homes and business of all kinds.

Let’s take a deeper look at what SERVPRO has to offer:

Water damage recovery. Whether your home has sprung a leak or been overtaken by flood waters, you can rest assured that we will be by your side quickly.

Fire damage recovery. It’s a fact that fires happen every 23 seconds in the United States. Amazingly enough, that is part of a 40-year downward trend. While fires do cause big damage, you can count on us to bring in big help.

Mold removal. If you have had water damage in your home or business, you know that mold can creep up quickly and threaten the structure of your home. And it can spread easily when you try to get rid of it. That’s why it’s of the upmost importance to let the pros handle it.

Storm recovery. Natural disasters of all kinds can bring a large amount of damage, but you can rest assured that our SERVPRO technicians will walk with you every step of the way through restoration.

Commercial needs. If you’re a business owner, you should know that we not only offer you the same services we offer homeowners, but we even provide more. We can provide specialized cleaning and care so that you business shines and proves to employees and customers that you care about them.

General cleaning. Sometimes life is hectic, and you need help with mundane task! We can tackle residential or commercial cleaning of carpets, upholstery and more. Essentially, it’s safe to say you can leave the dirty work to us.

Specialty cleaning. Some types of cleanup require specialized training. When you need document restoration, air duct cleaning or even biohazard cleanup, we’ve got you covered.

Construction. When disaster strikes, it can wreak havoc on your home or business—and sometimes the building can’t be restored, but rather needs to be reconstructed. You can count on us here at SERVPRO to rebuild your structure to be just like it was before. 

Add 24-hour service and an easy insurance process to all this, and the picture becomes clear—when you need cleanup and recovery of any kind, you can trust SERVPRO to get the job done

The 4 Major Components of Fire & Why It Matters | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has any damage, SERVPRO of Rapid City is ready around the clock to help you recover.

Pop quiz: What is a tetrahedron? Don’t worry, you can use Google! It’s a three-dimensional, triangular shape with four equal sides.

You may be wondering what we are getting at. Surprisingly, it has to do with fire safety.

A fire needs four components, which are known as the fire tetrahedron.. Without these elements working together, a fire can’t start.

Water Damage & the Cleanup Process | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO of Rapid City for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration

Daily, there are 14,000 Americans who have the unfortunate surprise of experiencing water damage. If this happens to you, let SERVPRO help you restore your home.

As a leader in the restoration industry, we know that disasters happen at the most inconvenient times, which is why we are always on call. Once you call in SERVPRO, we’ll rely on our patented process for handling water damage cleanup. Here’s what to expect:

Emergency Contact. When you call us, we’ll ask questions to determine the nature of your emergency and set up an appointment to come and survey the damage in person.

Inspection and Water Damage Assessment. Once we arrive on site, we spring into action immediately, verifying first that the main water source has been shut off. Then we will walk through your home and property, evaluating the water damage and noting any hazards along the way. Lastly, we will outline a plan for you so that we can get started.

Water Removal. We will begin with the most obvious step, which is to get rid of the standing water. We will use powerful pumps and extraction units to help get rid of hundreds or thousands of gallons of water. Complete removal of the water can help reduce the overall drying time and help prevent mold growth.

Damaged Material Removal. We’ll take stock of the items in your home, including the structure itself, looking for what is irretrievably damaged. We will convey to you any items or materials that need to be replaced, as well as what can be repaired. Our goal is to always restore as much as possible, rather than replace.

Cleaning, Sanitizing and Deodorization. Water that sits can become stagnant and stinky quickly. We will work to rid your home of the smell and germs by using industry-leading equipment and time-tested techniques.

Drying. Once the bulk of the water has been removed, it’s important to remember that there is still moisture in the home. It’s important to remove excess moisture and restore the normal moisture balance so that we can reduce the risk of mold growth.

Monitoring. As your home goes through the drying phase, we will remain in constant contact with you and even stop by daily to ensure that the drying process is working efficiently. As needed, we’ll change techniques.

Repairs and Construction. Once all of this has been completed, we can begin the repair or restoration process. From minor things like resurfacing to large scale rebuilds, we can do it all. Consider us your one-stop-shop.

When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration. We’ll make your damaged property look “Like It Never Even Happened.”

When It Comes to Restoration Services, You Simply Can’t Wait | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

If a fire issue pops up during the holidays, remember the trusted leader in the recovery industry, SERVPRO of Rapid City.

When it comes to family or friends, we all try to make plans or fit them in our schedule. However, sometimes life doesn’t work out that easily and things or events don’t always fit our schedule. Things like disasters or accidents affecting your home or business.

These will never fit into anyone’s calendar because it’s a headache that no one wants to deal with! At SERVPRO, we know that disasters don’t fit into anyone’s plans, and that is why we are here for you all day, every day.

When it comes to restoration, acting quickly and efficiently is essential—and that’s exactly what we will do!

After a fire. Once the flames have been put out, the real work is only beginning. Between the sticky, powdery substance known as soot and the smell of charred wood, the cleanup process is only getting started.

These things not only embed themselves into the fabrics of your home, but they also get absorbed by the walls or wood beams that are still standing. That makes these fire effects an extremely difficult thing to get rid of.

One other fire damage byproduct you might not have thought of? Water damage! Yes, you read that right. When a fire is extinguished, large amounts of water are usually involved.

After water damage. Water damage also requires quick action. Any amount to standing water or even moisture can make matters worse.

In only 48 hours or less, water can cause mold growth and can also seep into boards, causing damage to the structure of your home or business.

The quicker you respond to a disaster situation, the better! You can have more damages occur the longer you take, and we understand that to the fullest.

That’s why we are here to back and help you restore your home or business. No matter the type or the size of the disaster, we can be there quickly.

When you need help after a home or business disaster, fast service is a priority, and there’s nobody faster or more prepared than SERVPRO. Call us anytime to take advantage of our 24-hour emergency service.

If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City.

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

The Water Damage Numbers Say it All | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

As adults, we have learned that working hard never stops. We work hard for a paycheck, and we work hard for our family!

So if you are a homeowner, you can understand that things don’t always work out the way we wish them to! When it comes to water damage in your home, it’s sad to say but the odds are not in your favor. At some point or another, you’re likely going to be dealing with some type of water damage.

You can’t prepare for everything, but you can certainly try. One way to do so is to ensure that your pipes and appliances are well-equipped and maintained. This can at least give you a fighting chance against water damage.

24. This number represents the percentage of all home insurance claims that are related to water damage. That’s one out of every 50 homeowners who file water claim each year.

48. Water damage can become a very costly incident! Especially if you haven’t cleaned it up promptly. You only have 48 hours before your water damage becomes a mold problem in your home.

98. It might come as a shock to some, but 98% of homes with basements experience some type of water damage at some point.

10,234. This is how much money the average insurance claim for water damage costs. Because water can cause more issues than simply getting things wet, it can be a costly fix! Water damage is not only destructive to the possessions in your home, but it can cause major damage to the structure of your home as well.

14,000. Every day, there are 14,000 water damage emergencies reported here in the United States. That’s a lot of people; every six seconds, someone is dealing with some type of water damage.

13,000,000,000. A number with nine zeroes behind it usually is only seen during a lottery drawing! In this case, though, this $13 billion represents the annual cost of water damage here in the United States.

These numbers can be quite a “sticker shock,” but the good news is most water damage is preventable. Keep up with the maintenance of your home and repair leaks as soon as you see them. And while this won’t prevent some accidents or disasters, you can rest assured that you are doing everything you can to help defy the odds.

If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO to see how we can quickly and fully restore water damage to your home or business.

You can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line, SERVPRO of Rapid City

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Earning Your Trust, the Old-Fashioned Way | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

Sometimes, like it or not, we all get a dose of bad luck. There might come a time that you will have to put your home back together after a weather event or a cooking failure.

Regardless of how the situation occurred or how big it is, you are stuck with having to make a quick decision about who to call on for help.

As you do your research on restoration companies, as you should, there are a few things that you should consider when doing so:

Reputation

When a catastrophic event happens, you can certainly count on friends and family to help you through, but what you might not realize is that this is also a time for scammers to show up.

Unfortunately, this happens more times than we’d like to think about. Scammers show up, promise you the world, take your money and leave town.

Here at SERVPRO, we put people first. We have been a part of the national landscape for over 50 years, and we have earned our reputation. We work hard to satisfy millions of customers many times over.

Reliability and Dependability

When your home or business is in complete disarray, life around you comes to an immediate halt. You don’t have the time to sit and wait on someone to come and begin your restoration.

You need to have someone you can count on, someone who is always available—and that’s exactly what we do. We are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, because after 50 years in the business, we know time is not on your side when disaster strikes.

Backup

SERVPRO of Rapid City is right here locally, and that means we are always ready to act and can get there quickly. But what about when disaster strikes the entire community?

We’re ready then, too! While we’re here locally, we’re backed by a national network, too. When an emergency occurs, we can call in reinforcements for support and assistance.

When you call SERVPRO, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got the trusted leader in the restoration industry on the other end of the line. When disaster hits home, contact us to get our local experts and nationwide network on your side.

If winter weather should bring damage to your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Rapid City for fast, restorative solutions.

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

What to Know About Winter Weather Safety | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and also probably the busiest! No matter what’s on your calendar, you can become so overwhelmed that you forget some other mundane things.

These “mundane” things can be something as important as safety, and that is something we can’t risk. Rapid City is known to have some pretty frosty winters.

So, let’s take a look at some things that you can do to help prepare your family, home and other important things.

<h3your-family">Protect Your Family

Communication is the lifeline to any relationship. And that saying goes for your family and preparing for any event that you can.

Your family must know what the emergency action plan is. By communicating this plan well, you can help reduce the fear for everyone.

Your family and your home are priorities, but your vehicle is a priority as well. That’s why it’s important to winterize your vehicle and make sure that you have all the necessary parts to help your car run smoothly during the winter months.

Keep your car prepped with an emergency safety kit, spare warm clothing, and other items to be prepared in case you have to take shelter in your vehicle.

<h3your-home">Protect Your Home

Winter weather typically brings freezing temperatures at some point or another, and freezing temps mean you can experience frozen pipes. This is one of the greatest dangers for homeowners during the winter. That’s why you need to be aware of potential dangers and what you can do to help prevent this costly headache.

Before you get turn any heating device on in your home, make sure that it is working well. If you use wood to help with heating, ensure that your fireplace is cleaned out and well-ventilated. It’s also imperative that you use only proper fueling agents to help ignite any fire.

<h3your-pets">Protect Your Pets

Our pets are another part of our family, and like you wouldn’t leave plants out in the freezing temperatures, you should never leave your pets out in those temps either. Bring your pets inside since they can’t handle extreme winter storms.

Horses and cattle are different. While they can’t be brought indoors, they still need to be cared for. Make sure these animals have a shelter of some kind, and they have plenty of food and thawed water.

<h3for-melts-and-flooding">Watch for Melts and Flooding

Winter weather brings snow and ice, and eventually, these things will melt and potentially cause dangerous floods.. Make sure you are staying aware of weather updates about potential flooding put out by your local officials.

If winter weather should bring damage or flooding to your home or business, contact SERVPRO for fast, restorative solutions.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO of Rapid City are here for you if your home is affected by fire.

12/2/2021 (Permalink)

Do You Know What Causes House Fires? | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

Could you imagine pulling up to your home and seeing it surrounded by flames? It’s inconceivable. incomprehensible.

We all would go to great lengths to help prevent this from happening, but despite an increased awareness about fire safety in the last decade, more than a quarter of all reported fires still occur in the home.

Let’s review some of the top causes of house fires. By keeping these in mind, you can be aware and help reduce the risk of fire.

Cooking. Did you know that almost half of all house fires begin in the kitchen? The most common reason is unattended cooking. Make it a rule: Don’t leave the kitchen for any reason while using the stove or oven.

Heating equipment. As cooler weather enters the scene, it’s important to realize that 14% of all house fires start because of heating equipment of some sort. Portable space heaters are the main culprit. They can be placed too close to something flammable without you even realizing it.

Electrical fires. Another major cause of house fires comes from electrical malfunctions and mishaps. These are most common in older houses, which don’t have the same safety measures in place as newer ones. If you live in an older home, have the electrical system inspected regularly.

Intentional fires. Sadly, there are more than 28,000 intentional home fires started every year. By “intentionally set,” we mean fires begun purposefully with destruction in mind, as opposed to fires set for other purposes that got out of hand.

Smoking materials. Even though smoking materials are only responsible for 5% of house fires, they are the leading cause of civilian deaths. These deaths often happen because people fall asleep while smoking.

Regardless of the cause, SERVPRO is here for you if your home is affected by fire. Contact your local team today to see how we can help.

SERVPRO can handle any job!

12/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is trained and equipped to respond to any type of biohazard situation. We can clean up crime scenes, hoarding, animal and human waste, and unattended death. This is not the most pleasant part of our job, but it is critical that it is handled properly. Here are a few types of biohazards, with an explanation of what they entail.

Unintended Death:

When a loved one passes away, and discovered after the fact, some cleanup is often necessary. We are aware that this situation can be very stressful for friends and family of the deceased.  The technicians at SERVPRO of Rapid City respond to these jobs with compassion and perform the necessary services quickly and safely. It is our goal to provide our cleanup services in a caring manner, and to try to alleviate some of the stress, allowing you and your family to move forward.

Hoarding:

Hoarding can often develop into a biohazard situation. Excessive household garbage and spoiled food are common in a hoarder house. This can attract insects and rodents, and dangerous bacteria can be present throughout the home.

Other Types of Biohazards:

Sewage backups, certain medical emergencies, and crime scenes are examples of other biohazards that require special attention. Bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens may be present. Special cleanup procedures and products are critical to ensure the health and safety of the occupants of the property.

If you have a biohazard problem that requires immediate attention, call SERVPRO of Rapid City anytime. We can respond rapidly, while handling the situation with dignity and respect.

The Commercial Cleaning Services Businesses Need

10/19/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready to have the cleanest business in town? Contact SERVPRO

Most people know SERVPRO for offering custom solutions for homeowners needing restoration after an accident or disaster of any kind. But what some people don’t realize is that we take care of business owners, too.

We provide commercial restoration for a storm, water, fire and mold damage, but we also provide specialized offerings. For example, we know that a company prides itself on the image it sends out, so we have made it our mission to ensure that your facility is clean and sanitized.

Commercial Services for Businesses of Any Kind or Size

We want to help you focus on the important things, like your employees and customers, and we can focus on the mundane things like keeping your business shiny and clean. We are professionals who use high-grade cleaning products and sanitation for all types of commercial businesses:

Retail facilities like convenience stores, department stores or grocery stores. Whether your company has two employees or 200, our goal is the same, which is to provide you with exceptional service.

Educational facilities like daycares, preschools or universities. Anyone who works in the field where children are involved knows that it’s essential to regularly clean commonly used items. But even when cleaning regularly, studies show that only half the bacteria from desks are cleared off. Just imagine the items that are not cleaned regularly and the numbers those would present.

Health facilities like hospitals, nutrition centers or hospice facilities. Health is the main priority in these types of business, and that makes cleanliness even more important. We not only make sure the facility is clean, but we go above and beyond the CDC standards.

Foodservice facilities like fast food restaurants, buffets or catering services. Anything to do with food requires cleanliness, otherwise, your business could go under quickly. Let us help you by taking a little work off of your plate!

Property management facilities like model homes, apartment complexes or high-rises. When you are trying to display the beauty of your facility we know what to do to help you achieve it.

The workforce can lose up to $260 billion per year in lost productivity due to illnesses, which is why we do what we do. We can help you get rid of germs and assure everyone that it’s a clean and safe work environment.

When you’re ready to have the cleanest business in town, we’re ready to help. Contact your local SERVPRO to get the pros working on the cleaning so you can work on the work.

What Makes SERVPRO Different

9/20/2021 (Permalink)

Life is always nice when things are going according to plan.

But as we all know too well, life is not always full of rainbows and butterflies. Accidents happen or disasters strike, and when they do, your stress level rapidly increases.

This is where SERVPRO can come in quite handy. We work hard to stay up to date on training and equipment so that we can get you back to your normal routine.

SERVPRO offers many great advantages, but each one brings you peace of mind.

Here on Any Day or at Any Time

We make sure that you can access someone in our business 24 hours a day, seven days a week!

Disasters strike during the most inopportune times, and because we understand that all too well, we make sure we stay available for you.

Quick Service

If you have standing water in your home, time is not your friend!

The longer your home festers after a disaster, the more chance there is for further mold growth, more smoke smell or more water damage. Responding quickly is essential, and with a team right here in Rapid City, we can get to you in no time.

Business, Residential—We Do It All

Disaster or accidents can strike at your home or at your business. We offer custom solutions for any and all situations.

Our focus is to help you get back to doing what you do best—running your home or business.

Just Like New

Seeing a project all the way through is what we enjoy the most. We take pride in our work, and it shows in every project that comes our way.

We don’t stop until we are certain that you are satisfied with the work that we provided.

A Whole New World

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, disease prevention is highly valued now more than ever. We know that, and because of that, we are offering cleaning services that go far beyond the traditional janitorial services.

We know that as a business you strive to provide a customized clean that you and your customers can feel confident in.

That’s what we’re here for.

As much as proactive planning can help, disasters happen. Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, technicians and training to get your situation under control. When you need help, get in touch with SERVPRO of Rapid City for the best service possible.

Check Out These Common Places for Water Leaks in Your Home

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Rapid City team if you are dealing with any water damage

No one wants to come home from work and be confronted with water where it shouldn’t be! But water damage is a real possibility when water escapes from places that were made to contain it.

If we were all-knowing, we wouldn’t have to worry about water leaks. But we’re not—and because of that, it pays to know how water might enter your home. Here are a few common sources of water damage:

Commode flapper. A commode flapper is a small circular piece of rubber that seals the water in the tank until the level is pressed. This is commonly referred to as flushing. The flapper is in use every time the toilet is flushed, and over time, the gasket can decay and leak. Many times, you can hear an audible leak coming from the toilet if the flapper is leaking.

Washing machine. Washing machines have a supply line, internal tub and drain line. Of course, there are many other components in between those system, and they are all designed to keep water in the tub or down the drain. Over time, water may escape and leak some of these components.

Clogged gutters. Gutters can be one of the main culprits in water damage. Properly designed and installed gutters are critical to moving the water from the roof to the ground where it can drain away. Keeping them clear of obstructions is critically important as water that overflows the gutter will find the wrong place to go. Obstructed gutters can have water backing up into fascia and soffits, down walls, and possibly leaking through the foundation.

Storm damage to roof. Many times when thunderstorms pass through they can leave roof damage. Wind can also break tree branches that land on your roof, possibly causing a break in the material that protects your roof.

Sewer line penetration. Pipes with age can be vulnerable to root infestation. Especially the old clay pipes that aren’t in use any longer. Once a tree root finds a source of moisture, it thrives and may invade that spot with more roots.

Disposal seal leaks. The seals in a garbage disposal stay fairly secure. However, excessive plunging to remove a clog can damage these seals if too much pressure is applied during the plunging process.

It’s important to stay current on your home maintenance. When you observe a defect, get it fixed immediately instead of waiting. It’s better to be proactive with a repair than to be faced with a restoration project from a major water leak.

If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.

Check Out These Common Places for Water Leaks in Your Home

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Rapid City team if you are dealing with any water damage

No one wants to come home from work and be confronted with water where it shouldn’t be! But water damage is a real possibility when water escapes from places that were made to contain it.

If we were all-knowing, we wouldn’t have to worry about water leaks. But we’re not—and because of that, it pays to know how water might enter your home. Here are a few common sources of water damage:

Commode flapper. A commode flapper is a small circular piece of rubber that seals the water in the tank until the level is pressed. This is commonly referred to as flushing. The flapper is in use every time the toilet is flushed, and over time, the gasket can decay and leak. Many times, you can hear an audible leak coming from the toilet if the flapper is leaking.

Washing machine. Washing machines have a supply line, internal tub and drain line. Of course, there are many other components in between those system, and they are all designed to keep water in the tub or down the drain. Over time, water may escape and leak some of these components.

Clogged gutters. Gutters can be one of the main culprits in water damage. Properly designed and installed gutters are critical to moving the water from the roof to the ground where it can drain away. Keeping them clear of obstructions is critically important as water that overflows the gutter will find the wrong place to go. Obstructed gutters can have water backing up into fascia and soffits, down walls, and possibly leaking through the foundation.

Storm damage to roof. Many times when thunderstorms pass through they can leave roof damage. Wind can also break tree branches that land on your roof, possibly causing a break in the material that protects your roof.

Sewer line penetration. Pipes with age can be vulnerable to root infestation. Especially the old clay pipes that aren’t in use any longer. Once a tree root finds a source of moisture, it thrives and may invade that spot with more roots.

Disposal seal leaks. The seals in a garbage disposal stay fairly secure. However, excessive plunging to remove a clog can damage these seals if too much pressure is applied during the plunging process.

It’s important to stay current on your home maintenance. When you observe a defect, get it fixed immediately instead of waiting. It’s better to be proactive with a repair than to be faced with a restoration project from a major water leak.

If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.

What Makes SERVPRO Different

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

When you are dealing with any damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Rapid City is your local restoration expert.

Life is always nice when things are going according to plan.

But as we all know too well, life is not always full of rainbows and butterflies. Accidents happen or disasters strike, and when they do, your stress level rapidly increases.

This is where SERVPRO can come in quite handy. We work hard to stay up to date on training and equipment so that we can get you back to your normal routine.

SERVPRO offers many great advantages, but each one brings you peace of mind.

Here on Any Day or at Any Time

We make sure that you can access someone in our business 24 hours a day, seven days a week!

Disasters strike during the most inopportune times, and because we understand that all too well, we make sure we stay available for you.

Quick Service

If you have standing water in your home, time is not your friend!

The longer your home festers after a disaster, the more chance there is for further mold growth, more smoke smell or more water damage. Responding quickly is essential, and with a team right here in Rapid City, we can get to you in no time.

Business, Residential—We Do It All

Disaster or accidents can strike at your home or at your business. We offer custom solutions for any and all situations.

Our focus is to help you get back to doing what you do best—running your home or business.

Just Like New

Seeing a project all the way through is what we enjoy the most. We take pride in our work, and it shows in every project that comes our way.

We don’t stop until we are certain that you are satisfied with the work that we provided.

A Whole New World

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, disease prevention is highly valued now more than ever. We know that, and because of that, we are offering cleaning services that go far beyond the traditional janitorial services.

We know that as a business you strive to provide a customized clean that you and your customers can feel confident in.

That’s what we’re here for.

As much as proactive planning can help, disasters happen. Regardless of why you need cleanup or disaster recovery, SERVPRO has the tools, technicians and training to get your situation under control. When you need help, get in touch with SERVPRO of Rapid City for the best service possible.

Storms are our specialty

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is on the job

What no one really dreams about during summer are the stormy and gloomy days.

Stay Aware with stormy weather happening more often, it can be easy to become accustomed to it.

It's important to remember that stormy weather can become severe and dangerous without much warning.

During storms, you have to be cautious and stay aware.

You can do this by installing emergency and weather apps on your phone, watching the news and/or investing in a NOAA Weather radio.

Flooding is possible, and often unpredictable, but if you think it's a likely event, stay where you are and wait until the weather backs off.

Dozens die every year from weather-related incidents, so staying ahead and being cautious will help.

If lightning is present, it's important to always stay indoors.

As much as we hate to admit it, our mothers were right-stay away from windows and avoid bathing or showering during a storm.

Stormy weather is inevitable, so keep an emergency kit prepared and readily available to save you time and possibly lives when a storm strikes.

Stay on high ground and never try to drive through flooded areas.

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

Be Weather-Aware During the Summer | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Rapid City is ready to make things right again.

Awww, sweet summertime! Vacations, long days of swimming, outdoor fun—these are the things that people love about summer. What no one really dreams about during summer are the stormy and gloomy days.

But like it or not, summer months are wetter than most.

In South Dakota, we can see a significant increase in precipitation during our summer months. While the humidity isn’t too bad, the wet days almost triple during the warmer months.

Stay Aware

With stormy weather happening more often, it can be easy to become accustomed to it. But it’s important to remember that stormy weather can become severe and dangerous without much warning.

During storms, you have to be cautious and stay aware. You can do this by installing emergency and weather apps on your phone, watching the news and/or investing in a NOAA Weather radio.

Flooding is possible, and often times unpredictable, but if you think it’s a likely event, stay where you are and wait until the weather backs off. Storms can also cause high winds, which can rip through your outdoor items and cause damage to your home.

Dozens die every year from weather-related incidents, so staying ahead and being cautious will help.

When Lightning Roars, Stay Indoors

If lightning is present, it’s important to stay indoors at all times. And even if the lightning isn’t present, remember that if you hear thunder, lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the thunder.

As much as we hate to admit it, our mothers were right—stay away from windows and avoid bathing or showering during a storm.

Stormy weather is inevitable, so keep an emergency kit prepared and readily available to save you time and possibly lives when a storm strikes.

Stay on high ground and never try to drive through flooded areas. It doesn’t take much water to carry your car away or knock you over if you try to wade through.

There are any number of dangers that can come into play in a thunderstorm, and it’s always best to be cautious and put things on hold until storms safely pass. If storms cause damage to your home or business, SERVPRO is on the line, ready to make things right again.

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City to start the restoration process.

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Severe Storms Have a Costly Impact | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

What can we say about the year 2020? So much happened, but what we want to focus on is the weather—it was a record-setting year for weather and climate disasters. Of all the years in history for which we have data, 2020 was the most financially destructive.

In the year 2020, we saw 22 official weather disasters, which are defined as events that cause at least a billion dollars in damages, plus other damaging storms that are not counted in this particular statistic. There were so many tropical storms and hurricanes in 2020 that the NWS ran out of letter from the alphabet and had to dip into the Greek alphabet to finish naming all of the storms.

Not Only Hurricanes

Yes, hurricanes bring about immense destruction and causes large amounts of monetary damage, but other types of severe weather are starting to play a major role as well. In fact, the most expensive disasters of 2020 in the contiguous United States were thunderstorms and tornadoes.

In 2020, there were 14 official weather disasters that were severe thunderstorms, and some that brought tornadoes as well. Thunderstorms are common, and they don’t discriminate on where or when they will hit. And as of lately, it’s becoming quite normal to see them with the fierceness that we are seeing now.

In August 2020, what seemed like a typical line of thunderstorms in eastern Nebraska exploded into a derecho, which is something like a tornado but with straight winds instead of swirling ones, and it impacted more than 10 million acres of corn fields. This is almost half the state’s corn crops—that’s over 11% of the entire country’s corn fields.

Our summers here in Rapid City prove to be quite active, severe weather-wise! In 2020, we had nine major events happen in a three-month time span. All of which began with severe thunderstorms and progressed to hail storms or tornadoes.

Is This Our New Normal?

In 2020, it was the 10th consecutive year with at least eight billion-dollar disasters. 2018 and 2019 combined saw a total of $136 billion in damages, and 2017 caused a total cost of over $300 billion, which was the highest total on record!

Thunderstorms are normal and common, but the intensity and frequency of these are starting to become regular. So as a home or business owner, it’s imperative to take whatever precautions are possible. in order to minimize the damage to your property.

You can’t control Mother Nature no matter how many precautions you take, but you can guarantee that you have got friends in the restoration industry whose goal is to recover your valued items and restore your property "Like it never even happened."

When storms do damage, we go to work to make things right. Contact SERVPRO today to see how we can help.

A Certified Clean With SERVPRO | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

If you’re business has sanitation and cleaning needs, reach out to the SERVPRO of Rapid City team.

Cities across the country are beginning to experience major turnarounds.. Hopes are high that “real life” or “normalcy” is here, and with that return to normal come some new expectations for businesses.

As more customers return to in-person shopping and other activities, they’re doing so with a new appreciation for how fragile our health can be. That means they’re looking for businesses that take their wellness and safety into consideration.

How can you meet those new customer expectations? Start with a certified clean.

The 3’s of Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

The Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned program gives you and your customers peace of mind by taking worries over sanitation out of the equation.

Close your eyes and think about the time your business was the cleanest it’s ever been. It’s such a nice and serene feeling. Now take that up a notch—with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, we use advanced biohazard techniques and technologies that go beyond your traditional cleaning and janitorial services.

What makes Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned a better program than the others?

Take a look at the three C’s of a Certified: SERVPRO Clean:

1. Consult. Your business is unique, which means your cleaning will be made to fit your particular needs. We will meet with you to discuss the work you do, your workspace and the people who use your space regularly. Since SERVPRO of Rapid City is locally owned and operated, we know the ins and outs of our area and its businesses.

2. Clean. Now it’s time to get down to business. Our technicians show up on site with proprietary, hospital-grade cleaning solutions you won’t find anywhere else. This gives your building the clean of a lifetime while adhering (or exceeding) the CDC standards. A certified clean not only protects your space against COVID-19; it also provides protection against other common viruses and bacteria.

3. Certify. Once our trained technicians have completed the job, you get to proudly display the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield in your business window. This shield provides consumers the security in knowing that you have gone to the greatest lengths to ensure the safety of everyone. You’ll also receive digital emblems to place on your website and on social media.

If you’re ready to get serious about sanitation and have your business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, get in touch today to get the best team in cleanup and restoration on your side.

Fire Safety During the Warmer Weather

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Restoring fire and smoke damage is one of our specialties. Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City to learn more.

Rainy, cold and dreary weather is finally gone, and the warmer months are here for a while! Thinking about warmer weather can be exciting, but it’s also a time to think about fire safety for your home or business.

Did you know that spring sees more daily fires on average than any other time of year? It’s true, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk.

Here are some common fire threats and ways to protect yourself:

The grill. Almost 9,000 fires a year are related to grilling accidents. They create the perfect combination of flames, heat, grease and gas, which can make things escalate quickly. Make sure you are taking care of the essentials to help prevent a fire. Verify that the grill is in good working condition, have it placed at least three feet away from everything and clean it before each use. Cleaning the grill before each use is critical because [almost 20% of grill fires are due to poor cleaning]. (https://hgi-fire.com/blog/spring-has-sprung-fires-safety-tips-for-the-warmer-months/).

Fire pits. Campfire accidents spike as soon as summer rolls around. Usually burns account for three out of four camping injuries in children younger than 16. So, never leave your children unattended near a fire pit. It’s also a good idea to keep a bucket of water or drag a water hose close to the pit. You should never add leaves or pine needles to the fire, and finally, put the fire out slowly to avoid scattering embers.

Chimneys and dryer vents. Warmer months are the perfect time to do your annual chimney inspection. Having your chimney inspected and cleaned helps avoid a potentially dangerous buildup of ashes. Another yearly maintenance service to consider is having your dryer vent pipe cleaned out. Lint, even if you clean the filter in the dryer every time, can build up quickly in the pipes.

At SERVPRO, we have technicians on hand ²⁴⁄₇! These technicians are ready and waiting, no matter the cause of fire, to help you have it cleaned up. Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City today to talk with a specialist.

Indicators of Basement Water Damage

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is a full restoration company. Our team of experts are on call and ready to help you determine the best course of action.

Many homeowners find their basements to be an enjoyable area of their homes. Whether it’s kept bare for something as simple as extra storage or finished and furnished for some extra living space, a basement can be a versatile utility area.

But the fact that basements are dug into and under the ground creates an inherent risk of water damage inside, and the risk is even greater once you consider that water leaks in other parts of your home often find their way into the basement.

There’s no guarantee that you will or won’t encounter a basement water emergency, but the risk is high enough that you should make yourself aware of the common ways to identify potential damage. Let’s look at a few below.

Top Signifiers of Water Damage in Your Basement

Unpleasant, musky odors. There’s a certain smell that many people associate with basements or underground areas, but it’s really an indicator of a wet area. Water that seeps in turns bacterial and toxic, making your area not only damp, but odoriferous. This smell will only arise when mold and mildew are present in the environment, and while you may not see any mold yet, the smell is a giveaway that it’s already growing.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. Many homeowners paint their basements, whether they’re finished basements or cinder block areas, and some apply waterproof paint, trying to head off potentially problematic water leaks. But paint or no, waterproof or no, water will find its way through if there’s a leak. Cracks, bubbles and flakes in your paint are a telltale sign that water is coming through from somewhere.

Foundational cracks. Cracks in your foundation are not normal, even though houses do shift over time. Cracks can show up inside in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls as well, indicating that your house frame is applying uneven pressure, possibly caused by a cracked foundation. Hairline cracks are no cause for alarm, but they should be treated immediately if they get larger.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.

The Home Restoration Service You Choose Matters

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City today. We work with you and your insurance company to get things back to normal quickly

Let’s be honest. No homeowners like to think about needing the type of services we provide. But when they do, it’s because fire, flooding or accidents have severely damaged their homes.

The type of help homeowners need from us is called home restoration. And its goal is to get the home back to its original state. While sometimes a mop, bucket and elbow grease are enough, you need a team of experts to restore your home in other circumstances.

When that happens, it’s essential to understand the home restoration process—and why choosing the right team can be vital to you being happy with your results.

Damage Happens More Often Than You Think

According to the Insurance Information Institute, about one in 20 homeowners will need to file a home damage insurance claim every year. So that means if you have 40 friends and acquaintances, two of them will likely deal with home damage this year.

We also have some statistics about individual types of disasters and issues.

For example, about one out of every 350 American homeowners will deal with a fire damage claim each year, from causes ranging from storm and lightning damage to furnace fires.

When you think about the entire population of the United States, that statistic translates to millions of families. Some of these people will need to get help from a professional team. That’s when choosing a quality restoration company will make all the difference for you.

Training Makes a Difference

Our team members pride themselves on offering an excellent level of restoration services. It matters on several levels, including response time, availability and training. We take special pride in the level of training our technicians to receive.

Beyond the training offered by SERVPRO at a national level, our technicians earn valuable certifications through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification. This non-profit group provides various certifications to ensure restoration and cleaning technicians can use the latest proven techniques when restoring your home.

That means you can rest assured you’re in good hands.

If your home is damaged due to a fire or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Back To School From Spring Break?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

Since the average child spends 900–1,000 hours a year in the public school system, preventing sickness is virtually impossible. The cleanliness of the actual buildings where children spend so much time will help to reduce these figures. While school may be coming to an end kids can still leave behind unseen germs, SERVPRO of Rapid City is also able to help with cleaning up unseen germs. When deep cleaning or graffiti removal, or air ducts are full call the professionals; air duct cleaning can help remove allergens in the air helping slow the spread. Using the right equipment and taking the time to teach each employee how to use the equipment properly makes a big difference. SERVPRO of Rapid City can quickly and safely remove water damage, fire damage, or any cleaning needs. SERVPRO of Rapid City professionals will answer your call right away 24/7.

WITH THE WINTER STORM WARNING MAKE SURE TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR BROKEN PIPES

4/11/2021 (Permalink)

If the temperature drops below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, pipes are more likely to freeze. Water damage can be severe as a result of this. If pipes are not adequately insulated or if temperatures are extremely cold, pipes in crawl spaces and in exterior walls will freeze. Frozen pipe water damage can be easily and safely restored by SERVPRO Franchise Professionals. Harm to your roof and ice Dams are two other possible hazards to consider when the snow/ice melts. What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What Not To Do After Flooding

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

Don’t Let Heavy Rains Damage Your Family Home

4/11/2021 (Permalink)

Here’s something you may not have heard: One out of every 50 American homeowners will have to file a water damage claim next year.

When asked how the water damage happens, homeowners cite various problems like severe floods and storms or problems in the home, like a burst pipe.

So if you have to file a claim for water damage this year, you’ll have a lot of company. Statistically, it’s like that someone you know will have to file a water damage claim this year, too. Depending on the size of your network, it might even be more than one person.

Preparing Your Property for Wet Weather

Basic home maintenance can help you stay safe from water damage. These projects will help you get moving in the right direction.

Learn how your yard drains. A yard that drains correctly protects your home. If you notice that your yard is draining toward your home, then you might want to get in touch with a landscaping expert to look for ways to protect your yard.

Plant helpful landscaping. Landscaping can help protect your home from water damage. Native plants, trees and bushes can be vital in protecting your home from water damage. Talk with landscaping experts in the area or visit a native plant sale for tips and ideas.

Consider sealing your roof. Sealing your roof can help protect your home from wind and water damage. In fact, experts estimate that almost 95% of water damage is caused by water seeping through gaps in your roof and shingles, which can be prevented with this step.

If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, we’re here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.

Is Your Storm Kit Ready For Disaster

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

The American Red Cross encourages that each household and car have a preparedness kit, but unfortunately only 51.5% of US homes reportedly have an emergency kit ready. Kits should include the following:

• water
• canned food
• a can opener
• flashlights
• batteries
• including enough food
• water for each person in your household for 5 days

Start with a power outage kit, grab an old backpack or duffel and add in plenty of bottled water, battery-operated radio and clock, flashlight for each member of your household including extra batteries, non-electric can opener, list of emergency phone numbers including family and friends and a first aid kit.

SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call SERVPRO of Rapid City (605)388-3000

Has Storm Damage Affected your Business

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Property Damage from a Storm

Some storms can deliver more than thunder and lightning. Springtime storms can bring powerful winds, hail, heavy rains and severe damage to property. If your property is damaged from a storm, SERVPRO of Rapid City can clean it up.  As 24-hour emergency restoration company that lives in the same area as you, we know when these storms happen and are prepared.

Storm Damage at your Home or Business

Spring storms usually involve water damage, water in the basement, or rain entering a building through a roof or window.  Aside from making sure everyone is safe (including pets), the next step is to stop any further damage from happening.  SERVPRO of Rapid City will provide temporary closures to any open areas before beginning remediation and restoration.  What does that mean?  We will remove any standing water and/or debris and start drying the property. We will work with contractors to repair damage to the structure. 

Commercial to Residential Restoration After a Storm

As part of the national Disaster Recovery Team, SERVPRO of Rapid City is fully prepared to respond in force to any size disaster, bringing all the people and equipment necessary, including our disaster trailer.

If you have a water problem or wind has damaged your home or office, call SERVPRO of Rapid City.

Does your home have the right fire Extinguisher

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Home fire safety should start with a working smoke detector and a fire safety plan. If you already have those in your home, though, you may consider a fire extinguisher as the next step in fire preparedness.

A fire extinguisher works to put out a small fire by removing one of the three components of the fire triangle: heat, oxygen, and fuel. The most common fire extinguisher removes oxygen from a fire by smothering it in a dry chemical foam. In a way, it’s a high-powered version of pouring baking soda on a grease fire, which makes it particularly relevant in the kitchen.

But if you’re going to invest in a fire extinguisher to help protect your home and family—which luckily isn’t a huge investment, with most home units coming in between $10 and $40—you don’t want a one-hit wonder. The National Fire Protection Association recommends a multipurpose extinguisher, which works to suppress fires from ‘ordinary combustibles,’ grease fires, and electrical fires. On the market, this translates to a fire extinguisher that is ABC rated, such as a unit with a 3A:40-B:C rating, or the slightly smaller 2A:10-B:C rating. Units with these ratings can be found at almost any home improvement store.

Once again, having a working smoke detector in each room of your home should be your priority in home fire preparedness. Two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends checking the batteries in your smoke detector once a month, changing them at least once a year, and replacing the unit altogether once it is 10 years old. Once you’re confident with this routine, you can consider adding a fire extinguisher to your home arsenal!

Fire is Not the Only Destructive force After a Fire

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire happens in your home or place of business, it's not always a total loss, but the mess that is left behind from the smoke/soot and putting out of the fire itself can make it seem like a total loss! Smoke gets into everything in your home/business and the odor that is left behind is awful. 

Smoke affects various materials in different ways. The temperature and type of fire can cause different forms of smoke that will damage your home in different ways. Smoke is actually made of small particles of the fire itself and is a toxic hot speck that damages the surfaces as it lands on it.

Not all fires are big fires, and not all smoke damage is caused by a direct fire. In fact, it's the fires that we don't think that much about, like smoke from a fire outside that sneaks into your home. This type of smoke damage can go unnoticed for a long time, all the while damaging the surface that it's on as well as leaving behind a lingering odor.

You may find yourself wanting to brave the mess yourself, BUT it's not always the safest for you to do on your own. If you have suffered a fire, chances are that the conditions are unsafe. The structure may be falling apart and the smoke damage combined with the water is very slippery.

Odds are that if a fire has occurred, there will be a need to secure the area and clean up the debris before a decision can be rendered on its safety.

Thankfully, SERVPRO of Rapid City can help with this. We have the equipment and experience to secure your home and get it ready for restoration.

Every fire presents its own set of circumstances and poses its own set of problems. A good process that is followed is:

• Emergency Contact (When you first call us).
• Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment.
• Immediate Board-Up and Roof Tarp Service (if needed)
• Water Removal and Drying (if water damage is present)
• Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces.
• Cleaning and Repair
• Restoration

Odor elimination is a big part of the restoration process as well. SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified in odor removal.

Some odor removal basics are as follows

• Remove the source of the odor, i.e. burnt wood and building materials safely
• Cleanup begins and the deodorization begins. Smoke and soot residues can deposit on and even penetrate the various surfaces such as walls and ceilings. SERVPRO technicians clean
  different surfaces depending on the type of surface and residue deposited on it.
• Sealing if needed. Generally, sealing is not needed. But if the damage is extensive and the removal of the source is too expensive or impractical, it is the recommended option.

If you believe that you have unchecked smoke damage or have lingering odors, give us a call today at (605) 388-3000 and we'll gladly come and serve you or your business.

Keystone Business Owners Can Rely on Our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Process

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

Have you put a lot of work into making your small business in Keystone a success? If you’re like most local business owners, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

And that’s to be expected. It’s also why we want to support you and the hard work you’re doing for our community.

Why do we place such a priority on businesses? The answer is simple. Our SERVPRO is locally owned and operated. We know how hard it takes to run a business, especially in a tourist community like Keystone.

Building a business takes time and dedication. That dedication leads to long days and nights and time spent planning and looking for new ways to grow.

Having a plan in place for challenges—or at least being agile enough to deal with them as they arise—is important for business owners, too.

Even if you have a nuanced five-year plan, it’s impossible to take every possibility into account. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, was completely unpredictable. As a business owner, you’ve probably spent a lot of time lately looking for new ways to reach and serve your customers.

Some local businesses have found new ways to serve customers through the internet. Others are opting to open up restaurants, stores and companies for in-person services.

Regardless of how you decided to move forward, you can get help and support for a safe re opening.

Make Safely Reopening Your Priority

You have access to a lot of resources. They include business loans and tips, advice and more from sources you can trust.

You’re probably also looking for ways to ensure that it’s safe for your employees and customers to do business face-to-face again. We can help you with that priority.

We’ll ensure your business location is “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” Here’s how our cleaning process works:

First, our team will consult with you about your business’ needs. Then we’ll suggest an individualized cleaning plan.

Next, we’ll work to clean your space. We work with a high-level system to ensure you’re ready for customers. We use proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Plus, we use cleaning and decontamination standards directly from the CDC.

The last step is when we certify your business. You can open again with confidence.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

Keystone and Surrounding area Business Owners Can Rely on Our Certified Clean Process

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

People in Tyvek suit walking into a building

Have you put a lot of work into making your small business in Keystone a success? If you’re like most local business owners, the answer is a resounding “yes.”

And that’s to be expected. It’s also why we want to support you and the hard work you’re doing for our community.

Why do we place such a priority on businesses? The answer is simple. Our SERVPRO is locally owned and operated. We know how hard it takes to run a business, especially in a tourist community like Keystone.

Building a business takes time and dedication. That dedication leads to long days and nights and time spent planning and looking for new ways to grow.

Having a plan in place for challenges—or at least being agile enough to deal with them as they arise—is important for business owners, too.

Even if you have a nuanced five-year plan, it’s impossible to take every possibility into account. The COVID-19 pandemic, for example, was completely unpredictable. As a business owner, you’ve probably spent a lot of time lately looking for new ways to reach and serve your customers.

Some local businesses have found new ways to serve customers through the internet. Others are opting to open up restaurants, stores and companies for in-person services.

Regardless of how you decided to move forward, you can get help and support for a safe re opening.

Make Safely Reopening Your Priority

You have access to a lot of resources. They include business loans and tips, advice and more from sources you can trust.

You’re probably also looking for ways to ensure that it’s safe for your employees and customers to do business face-to-face again. We can help you with that priority.

We’ll ensure your business location is “Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.” Here’s how our cleaning process works:

First, our team will consult with you about your business’ needs. Then we’ll suggest an individualized cleaning plan.

Next, we’ll work to clean your space. We work with a high-level system to ensure you’re ready for customers. We use proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions. Plus, we use cleaning and decontamination standards directly from the CDC.

The last step is when we certify your business. You can open again with confidence.

If you need cleaning assistance at your business, we’re here. We have crews who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our cleaning services and how we can help you.

Is Your Dryer Safe?

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

A dryer seems like a convenient, safe appliance that lets you forget it and go. If you don’t maintain it properly, a lint fire can happen, which can cause sever fire damage to your home.

A Surprising Amount of Lint

Depending on your family size and how often you go through clothes, it is likely that you do a lot more laundry than you realize. An average family does approximately eight to 10 loads a week. Every load means small fabric, dust and dirt particles are collecting in your dryer’s lint trap, vent and duct work. Lint is highly flammable, making it vital to maintain cleanliness.

Cleaning Out the Lint

Instead of dealing with a potential dryer fire and needing expert help in repairing the damage, good habits can go a long way. Lint traps should be cleaned after very load. Most dryers make this easy. The trap usually slides out and the lint can be lifted off. Any lint that is leftover should be removed with a brush. Every few weeks, the screen should be rinsed with water. While the screen is out, vacuum in and around its entry point. Approximately once a year, unplug the dryer and inspect the vent and hose or pipe connected to the dryer. Wipe lint off the opening and clean any leftover in the hose or pipe. A brush can bused to clean the interior of the vent. Don’t forget the exterior vent. Ensure the vent flap is still attached and working properly. Vacuum or wipe out the opening. This should be done a few times a year.

Extra Safety Tips

To further avoid a lint fire, ensure your dryer is properly installed. Additionally, avoid drying clothes stained with chemicals, gas, oil or cleaning products, and only operate the dryer while at home. In most cases, a lint fire happens because of improper cleaning and maintenance. Taking a little extra to be safe is worth it.

SERVPRO Uses The Best Equipment

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

When we are called to a flooded space, it is essential to be able to rapidly determine the extent of water damage in the home or business.

Getting your home or business dry is imperative in the aftermath of water damage. With excess moisture mold and mildew can develop and bacteria can multiply. That’s why SERVPRO of Rapid City uses moisture meters during and after completion of water remediation work to ensure that structures are properly dried.

Moisture meters can reach areas that may be overlooked or not considered as being affected by moisture. These include areas such as basement walls, spaces between layers of drywall, concrete subfloors, and beneath carpet and tile. Identifying potential damage to these lesser-suspected areas can save thousands of dollars in reconstruction later.

SERVPRO of Rapid City provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

SERVPRO is Here to Help In Any Disaster

3/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Rapid City, 605-388-3000

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

SERVPRO is Here to Help with Water Damage

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City has responded to apartment complexes that suffered from a toilet bowl overflow on the 4^th floor. Not only did the water migrate throughout the 4^th floor apartment, affecting 3 of 5 rooms, but it wicked through the drywall and ceilings of the 3^rd and 2^nd floor apartments directly below. Each unit had less affected rooms than the source unit due to the quick response of our Nationally Certified Technicians and knowing where the water shut off was.

Working floor by floor, our technicians quickly devised a plan for drying purposes in order to lessen the water migration of the already affected materials. Working with each tenant, yes, the units were occupied, they took great care of the contents within each unit.

No matter the size of damage or the size of property, our highly trained technicians can create and execute any plan to mitigate water damage. Our goal is to do as little demolition as possible, but there are instances that cannot be avoided. Once we have finalized the execution of removing affected materials and properly drying materials that were not so affected, we can then send our repairs team in and let them do their magic work.

If you are a property manager or owner and find your property suffering from water or fire damage be sure to call SERVPRO of Rapid City (605) 388-3000.

Extreme Weather Changes Can Cause Pipes To Break

3/21/2021 (Permalink)

Winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and heavy snow to shovel. With the sudden drop in temperature and immediate increase, we are at risk of pipes bursting, which can cause a major water damage disaster at your house or business.

With the extreme cold comes an increased risk for frozen pipes in cooler areas of your home or business.  Here are some tips to help prevent pipes in areas such as basements, attics, garages, and kitchen cabinets from freezing during the coming cold snap:

• Open faucets slightly to let water drip or slowly trickle during extreme cold.
• Keep your heat set to a consistent temperature 24/7.
• Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing, especially those near outside walls.
• Consider insulating pipes in especially cold areas of your home like crawlspaces or attics.

If you experience water damage, call the SERVPRO of Rapid City team of trusted professionals 605-388-3000. Our experienced crews are always here to help

Are You Ready For Water Damage

3/20/2021 (Permalink)

Leaking water in your home is always cause for concern. This is especially true if contaminated water could encounter your family. The urgency of the problem is determined by several factors, such as how much water is present, the location in the house and the type of water that is leaking.

Fortunately, there is a rating system that helps homeowners assess the seriousness of a leak. Property owners throughout the area should know if they have a Category 1, 2, or 3 water problem. The higher the number, in general, the greater the urgency to get a water mitigation team to the home. SERVPRO of Rapid City will come and assess the situation for FREE

SERVPRO can Get You A Disaster Plan

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

Business owners are no stranger to the importance of planning ahead, but many of them do not prioritize disaster planning for their business.

Unprepared businesses that are hit by a disaster are frequently devastated, even being rendered unable to reopen. By evaluating your current preparedness levels and determining where you can improve, you can ensure this does not happen to you.

Understanding the three main categories of disaster preparedness is much simpler than planning for each scenario, allowing you to quickly identify strengths and weaknesses and make changes accordingly. Here are the top three categories for disaster preparedness:

Your Commercial Insurance Coverage

While it is logical to assume that a commercial business policy will cover any damages sustained from a natural disaster, many business owners are dismayed to find that is far from the case. Most commercial insurance policies exclude common specifics such as flood damage, and do not provide coverage for the loss of revenue that business owners sustain. Talk to your insurance agent to determine exactly what is and is not in your policy in advance.

Your Emergency Plan and Supply Kit

When the alert is sent out about a natural disaster, or if an emergency like a fire occurs, there will often only be minutes to react. Having an evacuation plan is vital to keep both you and your employees safe in this scenario. It is also wise to plan for a situation in which you will have to await help and stay on-site during an emergency such as a power outage. Stock an office emergency supply bag with enough food, water and medical supplies to cover anyone who may be present.

Your Plan for Restoration and Recovery

Reopening as quickly as possible following a disaster is the top way to minimize the impact that the damages have on the future of your business. By researching and deciding on a restoration company in advance of the disaster, you can make the call as soon as your business is safe to reenter in order to have restoration started right away. In the aftermath, the Small Business Administration offers disaster loans to assist business owners at a lowered interest rate, as well.

If your business has been impacted by a disaster, you can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ for guidance on how to begin the commercial restoration process.

SERVPRO is Here to Help

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

When you experience a flood at your home or place of business, you can't afford to lose important documents or paper goods to water damage. Using state of the art technology, SERVPRO is well equipped to dry and recover paper goods ranging from paper files to books to x-rays and photos.

Why use SERVPRO for document restoration?

The SERVPRO document restoration facility uses the latest vacuum free-drying method in addition to gamma irradiation technology for sterilizing. The facility is under 24-hour surveillance and is managed by HIPAA Master-certified technicians to ensure proper safety and privacy of your documents. The SERVPRO document restoration team has the capacity to handle large scale commercial losses and smaller residential jobs.

Some Floods Need Professionals

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Most water damage in the home is in the bathroom or the kitchen. Usually, leaks and spills require mopping up and potentially replacing the wall in front of the pipe that leaked. However, there are times that the leak went unnoticed or occurred in an area of the house, such as the basement, where you may not visit regularly. In these cases, you may need to use different methods to restore your home to preloss condition. 

Dealing with this type of considerable spill water damage in the Black Hills requires specialized extraction techniques and equipment. In the winter months, a massive spill requires even more care due to freezing temperatures requiring the house to remain heated so that the water does not freeze within the home or in the pipes. 

Depending on the amount of water and the location of the spill, SERVPRO technicians may need various types of extraction equipment. 

Portable Extractors

Portable extractors like light wants are used for smaller amounts of water extraction or for hard to reach places after technicians complete the heavy-duty extraction, using them in conjunction with truck-mounted extractors and submersible pumps. 

Truck Mounted Extractors

Truck-mounted extractors use powerful vacuums to suck out the water, working off the work truck's fuel, requiring no on-site power. For standing water in a basement, this type of extractor is ideal if there is access through a basement door or window as the hose length can be an issue. Truck mount waste tanks hold between 70 and 100 gallons. 

Pumps

Electric submersible pumps and high-pressure pumps are the two pumps most likely used when a basement has more than two inches of standing water. Electrical submersible pumps commonly referred to as sub pumps are the most typical; however, if the basement requires a high amount of lift, the high-pressure pump may be a better option since it gives a stronger discharge. Both pumps do not handle solids well but can move 1000 to 6000 gallons of water per minute. 

Regardless of the type of extraction equipment used, SERVPRO water restoration technicians safely dispose of wastewater according to local and state ordinances. 

For 24/7 assistance, contact SERVPRO of Rapid City at 605-388-3000. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster.

Protect Your Home From Spring Storms With These Safety Tips

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Are you ready for another frigid, snowy South Dakota winter to end? If so, you aren’t alone. Between cold temperatures, snow and the continuing pandemic, a case of spring fever is definitely warranted in Rapid City.

It’s already March, so spring is definitely in sight. If you’re like most of us, you’re already planning what projects you’ll complete this year to improve your home and make use of warmer temperatures.

Regardless of how you’re planning to spend spring, it’s a good idea to make time for home maintenance now, so you’re protected for one of spring’s weather threats—strong thunderstorms.

We can’t stop storms from hitting our community. But we can prepare for them. Want to know how? We’ve put together a list of projects that can help secure your home against weather threats.

Add These Seasonal Projects to Your To-Do List

How many of these projects are already on your list?

Check for problems with your roof. Don’t let the first time you realize your shingles are loose or your roof is leaking be when it starts storming. Check for missing shingles and signs of leaks first. Repair them to keep your home safer.

Look for unsecured items around your home. Patio furniture, gazebos, basketball goals and grills need to be secured and stable.

Check for tree limbs that need to be taken down. If limbs and branches are hanging over your home, they need to be removed. Why? Because they can cause damage if the wind pulls them down. You can fix them before they become a problem, though. Cut them down.

Check your sump pump for problems (if you have one). Every homeowner doesn’t need one of these. But if you do need one to regulate water levels in your basement, be sure it’s in good shape before it starts raining.

Remove any debris that’s settled in your gutters over the winter. Clean gutters allow water around your home to flow the right way, instead of overflowing and causing water damage.

If a fire, flood or any other cause damage to your home, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help you.

Our SERVPRO Techs Are Trained To Help

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City has responded to apartment complexes that suffered from a toilet bowl overflow on the 4^th floor. Not only did the water migrate throughout the 4^th floor apartment, affecting 3 of 5 rooms, but it wicked through the drywall and ceilings of the 3^rd and 2^nd floor apartments directly below. Each unit had less affected rooms than the source unit due to the quick response of our Nationally Certified Technicians and knowing where the water shut off was.

Working floor by floor, our technicians quickly devised a plan for drying purposes in order to lessen the water migration of the already affected materials. Working with each tenant, yes, the units were occupied, they took great care of the contents within each unit.

No matter the size of damage or the size of property, our highly trained technicians can create and execute any plan to mitigate water damage. Our goal is to do as little demolition as possible, but there are instances that can not be avoided. Once we have finalized the execution of removing affected materials and properly drying materials that were not so affected, we can then send our repairs team in and let them do their magic work.

If you are a property manager or owner and find your property suffering from water or fire damage be sure to call SERVPRO of Rapid City (605) 388-3000.

SERVPRO is Able to Handle Bio-Hazard

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is trained and equipped to respond to any type of biohazard situation. We can clean up crime scenes, hoarding, animal and human waste, and unattended death. This is not the most pleasant part of our job, but it is critical that it is handled properly. Here are a few types of biohazards, with an explanation of what they entail.

Unintended Death:

When a loved one passes away, and discovered after the fact, some cleanup is often necessary. We are aware that this situation can be very stressful for friends and family of the deceased.  The technicians at SERVPRO of Rapid City respond to these jobs with compassion and perform the necessary services quickly and safely. It is our goal to provide our cleanup services in a caring manner, and to try to alleviate some of the stress, allowing you and your family to move forward.

Hoarding:

Hoarding can often develop into a biohazard situation. Excessive household garbage and spoiled food are common in a hoarder house. This can attract insects and rodents, and dangerous bacteria can be present throughout the home.

Other Types of Biohazards:

Sewage backups, certain medical emergencies, and crime scenes are examples of other biohazards that require special attention. Bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens may be present. Special cleanup procedures and products are critical to ensure the health and safety of the occupants of the property.

If you have a biohazard problem that requires immediate attention, call SERVPRO of Rapid City anytime. We can respond rapidly, while handling the situation with dignity and respect.

SERVPRO is Here to Help

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

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

Specialized Training

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

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

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

Specialized Products

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

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Rapid City, 605-388-3000

Are You Ready For Fire Damage

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that fire is the most common cause of property damage? The key to protecting your business is your employees having education on fire safety and protocol. Here are a few fire prevention tips!

1. Clean your space- Keep your workplace clean and everything put away. Keep electrical appliances away from the fuel such as paper and cardboard.
2. Maintain your fire extinguishers- Check with your local fire department to ensure your extinguisher is up to code. You should also educate employees on how to use the extinguisher.
3. Install fire sprinklers or suppression system- all businesses have a fire alarm system, but you should also consider installing a sprinkler system.
4. Maintain Outdoor Spaces- if your business is in a dry or forested area take time to ensure you keep brush and trees from growing against the building.
5. Have Exit Strategy - Always have an emergency plan and make sure your employees are aware of this plan, include things like maps to exits as well as well-lit exit signs
6. Clean and Inspect all equipment- Faulty equipment is a common cause of fires. Make sure machines are in proper working order and turn them off when not in use.

Taking these simple steps can help prevent fires ruining what you have worked so hard for. If you would like help developing a plan, please contact SERVPRO of Rapid City to help you put together an Emergency Readiness Plan.

Do you have winter weather damage?

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

STORM - Damage from Cold Weather or Winter Storm?

In South Dakota, winter weather, snow, and ice storms can cause serious damage to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO of Rapid City has the winter storm experience, knowledge, and the resources to remediate damage caused by freezing weather. 

SERVPRO of Rapid City Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Winter Storm Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster 

Frozen Pipes

Intense cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO of Rapid City can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

 Ice Dams

An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there is a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger. 

Why Choose a SERVPRO of Rapid City? 

• We are Faster to Any Size Disaster. SERVPRO of Rapid City is dedicated to responding instantaneously to water emergencies. A fast response minimizes the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost. 
• We are Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists.SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have vast water damage restoration training that helps you get back to normal more quickly.
  • Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • Applied Structural Drying Technicians 

The Esporta clean makes it "Like it never even happened."

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is uses The Esporta® Wash System!

Our Esporta is much more than a washing machine, the Esporta® Wash System can restore items that have been severely damaged by water, smoke, soot, mold, or bio-waste. Not only can it restore them to usable quality, but it can remove up to 99% of contaminants (that is equal to food grade quality).

Here is why it's important for you to know WHERE & HOW your content is being cleaned & restored.

• Your content will be cleaned by the latest technology - not harsh dry-cleaning methods or out of date equipment & methods. The computer determines what is needed based on content.
• The Esporta will hold up to at least 6 standard loads of laundry, with room to spare.
• Your content will be inventoried and cataloged for more expedited claim process. 
• Your content is stored in a safe, controlled environment.
• You will have emergency laundry cleaned and returned quickly.

What is the Esporta capable of cleaning?

• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Sewage
• Soot
• Grime
• Mold
• Bio-waste
• Mildew

What can we restore with this technology?

• Household goods (comforters, plush toys)
• Laundry items (clothing, uniforms)
• Leather items (shoes, bags)
• Special goods
• Sports Equipment & Sporting Goods - Hockey, Football, Lacrosse (pads, helmets, gloves, etc...), tents, sleeping bags, and much more. 
• Horse saddles
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Is this system gentle enough to handle soft contents while still achieving 99% cleanliness?

The Esporta® Wash System utilizes a unique cleaning process in which it holds objects stationary and passes them through the water and specialized cleaning agents. This ensures that items do not receive significant wear and tear as they go through the restoration process.

Sound interesting?

SERVPRO is always looking to restore your property rather than replace it, and the Esporta® System is an incredible way to do that. This machine is in our Rapid City office, and items can either be dropped off at this location, or you can have us pick them up.

Call us at 605-388-3000 for more information and try out the Esporta® Wash System today!

Reconstruction Services are Now Available

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Did you know that in addition to water mitigation, fire cleanup, and mold remediation, SERVPRO of Gillette, Sheridan also offers reconstruction services? After our team is done with drying out your home/business or removing smoke-damaged materials, we can put your home/business back together "Like it never even happened." The convenience and savings of working with one company to assist with mitigation and repairs can be significant. In addition to reconstruction, we also do general home remodeling. Have you been considering remodeling your kitchen? We can help. Does your bathroom need an update? We do that too. From start to finish, we can manage your reconstruction project!

Here are just some of the reconstruction services SERVPRO offers:

• Drywall repair and installation
• Floor repair and replacement
• Kitchen and bath installation and remodeling
• Cabinet and trim replacement
• Insulation installation
• Ceiling repair
• Fixture replacement
• Painting and texturing
• Plumbing
• Electrical
• Framing
• Finish Carpentry 
• Setting/hanging doors

SERVPRO of Gillette, Sheridan is Here to Help make your life easier!

When disaster hits make sure you are protected

2/17/2021 (Permalink)

No one knows in advance when severe weather will strike their neighborhood and possibly damage their home. But there are things you can do right now that will help ensure your home is prepared if the unexpected happens. 

The National Weather Service can help you with more than checking the weather for the upcoming weekend. They also offer advice about how to get your home ready.

Trim tree limbs and remove dead branches and bushes. Tree limbs and dead trees can pose a threat to your home during high winds. Moving them away from your home can help spare your windows, roof, and siding.

Keep your gutters free of debris. This keeps your roof (and the rest of your home) safe from water damage during heavy rains. Over time, clogged gutters can cause damage to your home that isn’t related to a single storm, so it’s important to clean them out regularly.

Securing loose items. If you have time, this can help save both these items and your home from damage. These include items like patio furniture and grills.

Shut your doors and windows. This will protect the interior of your home against water damage. Remember, even a cracked window can let water into your home.

Getting Your Family Ready

You can learn more about how to put together a family emergency plan and what weather threats are common in your area by visiting Ready.gov.

While you’re there, you can download their app to your smartphone. This app is a great resource when you’re at home or traveling. It sends real-time alerts about severe weather near you to your phone, no matter where you are.

Cleaning Up Storm Damage

Hopefully, your family will never be hit by a storm. But if you are, expert cleaning can help get your family’s home back in order quickly. Plus, if there’s water damage, it can help protect you against mold later. We are apart of a disaster recovery.

Minutes Matter When You Need to Restore Your Keystone Home

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

We’ve been serving Keystone, Rapid City and the surrounding communities long enough to know that every home we serve and restore is unique. The families that we help are all dealing with the emotional and personal issues surrounding their damaged homes in their own way.

We also know that each claim is unique in both the causes and the type of damage they represented. In some cases, every home in a given neighborhood can be damaged by severe weather issues, like wind, hail and rain. In other cases, accidents and appliance malfunctions damage individual homes.

So, we definitely understand that every claim is very different. But we also know that most of them have something in common. It might not even be what you expect. It’s timing.

The sooner the restoration process begins, the easier it is to repair and restore the damage. Minutes make a difference when you’re dealing with water damage. Why?

Because water can begin to soak into and warp wood within a few hours or days. Signs of mold and mildew can start to show just as quickly.

Don’t Wait to Call Your SERVPRO Team

Because we know that damage can move quickly, we also understand how important it is to get the restoration process started quickly. That’s why we offer ²⁴⁄₇ service during emergencies. You can call us at any time when you need our help, and we’ll be here to assist you.

There are other good reasons to choose SERVPRO, too. Here’s what makes us different.

The technicians on our team are highly trained experts. We work with technicians who are highly trained and have the appropriate certifications. That means when a team comes to your home, you can trust that the people you’ll work with are bringing the latest knowledge and understanding of water damage to the job.

Our teams have the latest technology. We’re part of a trusted, national company. That means our technicians can use powerful, effective technology to make a personalized plan for your family.

We are a local business. While we are affiliated with the nationally known and respected SERVPRO brand, we’re also owned and operated by residents. Our teams care about the community and want to help our friends and neighbors recover after a disaster.

If your home is damaged due to fire, water or any other cause, you can always count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available ²⁴⁄₇ in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about our restoration services and how we can help your family.

Rapid City Residents Can Count on Us to Repair Fire Damage l SERVPRO® of Rapid City

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

If you have fire damage due to a heating malfunction or other issue, count on SERVPRO of Rapid City to fully restore your home.

If you’re a homeowner here in Rapid City, there’s a team of local experts who can help you and your family if your home suffers fire damage. We’re prepared to work with you to remediate and repair in the aftermath of a fire.

Millions of house fires happen every year in the United States—something many homeowners will deal with over the next year. And that number likely includes members of the community here.

Why Winter Is a Riskier Season

Fires happen more often during the colder winter months—especially in places like South Dakota, where residents may need to use furnaces, space heaters and more to heat their homes.

Christmas tree accidents cause numerous fires every year.

Space heaters without automatic shutoff functions can topple over. Malfunctioning furnaces and mishaps with appliances happen sometimes.

How SERVPRO Is Different

Want to know why so many families trust us in Rapid City? Here’s how we’re different:

We have a restoration-first mentality. Our team helps families recover from a fire in a way that’s both logical and economical. Experts are there at every step. We’ll help you save money on repairs and insurance premiums.

We can help with all the restoration issues you’ll face. House fires can damage upholstery, walls and more. Issues resulting from water and smoke are common problems, too. We have the tools and resources to remediate these issues. We’ll make the damage like it never happened.

We’re here at any time. Beginning the restoration process quickly is an important step in getting your home back to its original state. When it’s an emergency, we’re available ²⁴⁄₇. We make sure our team is here when it matters most.

We are locally owned. SERVPRO locations are everywhere—all across the United States. This location is locally owned. It’s staffed by team members who live in Rapid City. But since we are a SERVPRO location, we can use the resources, equipment and training you would find at a leading-edge company. We use them here in our community.

If you have fire damage in your home due to a kitchen, heating or other fire, you can count on us for restoration assistance. Our team is always ready to meet your needs and help you restore your home. Contact us at any time to learn more about restoration services near me.

Fire Prevention - Fire Clean up Near Me

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Fire cleanup near me

"It’s always good to find out you’re going to be working from home…

Unless you’re a firefighter."

According to the National Fire Protection Association (http://www.nfpa.org/news-and-research/fire-statistics-and-reports/fire-statistics/fires-in-the-us), in 2015, there were 500,000+ structure fires causing $10+ billion in property damage! Structure fires were reported every 63 seconds!

Here are a few tips to prevent a fire at your Federal Way home or property, provided by the American Red Cross (http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness):

• Keep items that can catch on fire at least three feet away from anything that gets hot, such as space heaters.
• Talk to children regularly about the dangers of fire, matches and lighters and keep them out of reach.
• Turn portable heaters off when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside every sleeping area. Also, install a carbon monoxide alarm in a central location outside each separate sleeping area.
• Check electrical wiring in your home.
• Avoid overloading outlets or extension cords.
• Make sure wiring is not under rugs, attached by nails, or in high traffic areas.

Have you checked your home or property for fire hazards recently? Have you had conversations with your family about what you would do in a fire emergency? What is your plan if a fire impacts your home?

SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire or smoke damage event and can help you get back on track after an incident.

Stop Water Damage This Winter | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your home due to a leaky roof or another cause, contact us right away. SERVPRO of Rapid City is available 24/7.

Homes can suffer water damage at any time during the year near Spearfish. But it’s important to keep in mind that seasonal dangers are unique—especially in places with harsh winters like we have near Spearfish.

In general, water damage claims are among the most common ones insurance companies see during the year. Insurance experts estimate that roughly one in every 50 American homeowners files a water damage claim each year.

These can vary in severity, from major flood or storm damage to repairing a busted pipe. In fact, you likely know someone who filed a water damage claim this year.

The Best Steps to Keep Your Home Safe

Taking care of your home and doing regular maintenance is your best protection against routine water damage.

What do you need to watch out for this winter? Experts have some advice about places to look when you’re getting your home ready to weather winter’s unique home maintenance needs:

Get a good look at your foundation. Being sure your home’s foundation doesn’t have any cracks is one of the first things you should do to prepare for winter. Water damage in basements is a common reason homeowners need remediation services. Additionally, water seeping into cracks during the winter and freezing can cause cracks to widen. That happens because water expands when it freezes.

Get your gutters clean before it starts snowing. In general, it’s a good idea to clean your home’s gutters a couple of times each year. Keeping them free of debris and flowing can help stop water from pooling or flowing in ways that can damage your home. Also, clean gutters are less likely to be filled with damaging ice.

Protect your pipes. Did you know frozen pipes are the most common reason homeowners file water damage claims in the winter? You don’t have to be one of them. If the forecast calls for a winter storm or an unseasonably frigid night, leave the faucets in your home dripping. (It doesn’t have to be much—just enough to keep water flowing.) You’re much less likely to find busted, frozen pipes if you take this step.

Find spots that need to be sealed. Like checking the foundation, this step is important because water expands when it freezes. Shingles, window panes and siding that aren’t secure can allow water into your home. And that water can freeze, expand and damage your home.

If a busted pipe, leaky gutter or other winter hazard damages your home, our team is here to help you restore your home. You can get in touch with us ²⁴⁄₇.

Preparing for a Cold Winter | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

11/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is your local restoration expert. Contact us today if you experience any storm damage.

Winter is approaching rapidly in South Dakota. If you’re like most people in Rapid City and beyond, it’s time to start thinking about how to deal with colder weather, snow and ice.

Consider protecting your home before the winter weather starts getting severe. If you’re like most Americans, your home is your family’s most substantial investment. Taking steps to keep your home and family safe from common winter hazards protects that investment.

If you start protecting your home now, you can stop small issues before becoming bigger problems that cause water and storm damage to your home.

Doing it easier than you might expect. You can take the five steps experts recommend when you’re getting your home ready for winter. You can do most of them in a weekend.

Find and seal spaces in your home where air leaks happen. Not only is this better for your home, but it also helps protect you from sticker shock due to high winter heating bills.

Inspect out and insulate your pipes. Busted pipes are one of the main causes of water damage in homes. By replacing faulty pipes and insulating your plumbing, you can prevent your pipes from freezing.

Repair and replace roof tiles, shutters, siding and other exterior elements. Cold air and water can seep in through a variety of surfaces. While the cold air drives high heating bills, water can do significant damage to your home.

Clean your gutters. Removing leaves and fall debris that could freeze or cause water issues during a rainy winter protects your home.

Trim back any branches that are overhanging your home. The weight of snow and ice can cause branches to snap and break. If any of them are hanging over your roof when it happens, they can damage your home.

General Winter Home Safety Tips

Power outages are common during ice storms and blizzards. The CDC offers some tips that can help you stay warm and safe at home.

Be smart with your generator. If you use a generator, put a battery-operated carbon monoxide monitor in your home. It protects your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Use space heaters the right way. Choose a space heater with an automatic shut-off switch. Also, be sure to place space heaters away from fabric (like furniture and curtains).

If you can, use flashlights at home instead of candles. Candles can cause fires if they’re left burning or topple over. That’s why it’s always safer to keep flashlights on in case the power goes out.

We’re Here to Help

If a busted pipe, leaky gutter or other winter storm hazard damages your home, our team is here to help you restore your home.

You can get in touch with us ²⁴⁄₇. We’re here if you need anything or if you want to learn more about the services we offer.

Reconstruction Services are now Available | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

11/21/2020 (Permalink)

Let us help you get your life back together!

Did you know that in addition to water mitigation, fire cleanup, and mold remediation, SERVPRO of Rapid City also offers reconstruction services? After our team is done with drying out your home/business or removing smoke-damaged materials, we can put your home/business back together "Like it never even happened." The convenience and savings of working with one company to assist with mitigation and repairs can be significant. In addition to reconstruction, we also do general home remodeling. Have you been considering remodeling your kitchen? We can help. Does your bathroom need an update? We do that too. From start to finish, we can manage your reconstruction project!

Here are just some of the reconstruction services SERVPRO offers:

• Drywall repair and installation
• Floor repair and replacement
• Kitchen and bath installation and remodeling
• Cabinet and trim replacement
• Insulation installation
• Ceiling repair
• Fixture replacement
• Painting and texturing
• Plumbing
• Electrical
• Framing
• Finish Carpentry 
• Setting/hanging doors

SERVPRO of Rapid City is Here to Help make your life easier!

How to Keep Your Home Safe From Fire Damage This Holiday Season | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Our team is available to 24/7 when you have a fire emergency. SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to help.

The holidays may feel unusual this year, but despite everything, many Americans are still planning family-style meals and looking forward to stringing lights and garland to brighten up their homes.

As you’re making plans for Thanksgiving and Christmas, don’t let fire safety slip your mind. Even if you’re hosting smaller events, it’s still a good idea to plan them with these tips in mind.

Thanksgiving Fire Safety

According to a leading insurance provider, 47% of all home fires start while cooking.

These tips from the National Fire Protection Association will help you keep your kitchen safer this holiday season and beyond.

Watch your stove and oven. We’re all tempted to let pots simmer and turkeys roast while we chat with guests or catch a game. But these appliances can start fires if they’re not regularly monitored. So don’t leave your dishes unattended for too long. You’ll serve a tastier meal— and be better prepared to prevent issues that can become kitchen fires.

Keep an eye on any burning candles. Lots of people love the warm, pumpkin-scented candles that have recently become synonymous with fall. If you want to light them during your Thanksgiving party (or any other time of the year), place them somewhere young children can’t grab them or knock them over. Be sure you blow them out when you’re not at home, too.

Check your cords and appliances. Your kitchen works overtime to prepare for Thanksgiving. Place appliance cords in places that don’t pose a tripping hazard to children darting into the kitchen or busy cooks. These appliances can start fires if they’re pulled off the counter or malfunction.

Keep Safety in Mind This Christmas

When it’s time to decorate your home, be sure you keep fire safety at the top of mind when you’re stringing lights and putting up your tree. By just being mindful of how you place your decorations and watching your kitchen for possible fire risks, you can go a long way toward protecting your home and family.

Stay vigilant in the kitchen. Many families enjoy a large meal at both Thanksgiving and Christmas. Be sure to keep an eye on dishes you’re simmering on the stove and appliances you have out on the counter.

Keep your Christmas tree away from heat. As a general rule, you’ll want to be sure your tree is several feet away from fireplaces (wood-burning or gas), vents and space heaters.

Turn the lights off when you leave. While twinkling lights make your home look welcoming at night, leaving them on when you’re not home can raise your house fire risk.

We’re Here to Help

Even the most diligent homeowners can sometimes have an accident or an unforeseen circumstance regarding a house fire. If it happens to your home, we’re available any time day or night to help you start repairing the damage and restoring your home.

Our team is available to help ²⁴⁄₇ when you have a fire emergency, so don’t hesitate to call us if you need us.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Service for Your Small Business | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

No matter the need, SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to provide you with a rapid response.

Small business owners are some of the busiest people in the community.

Between managing the day-to-day operations of your company, dealing with your customer’s needs and working on plans for the future, small business owners like you wear many hats. When you’re just starting, you’re likely doing everything from functioning as the CEO to cleaning up your space.

But with time and growth, you may realize there are some functions you can’t fulfill by yourself. If your business needs commercial cleaning support, it’s good to reach out to experts in that area for help.

But how do you hire a commercial cleaning service? The answer might surprise you—because it’s not as tough as you might think. Just focus on some of the same questions you ask yourself when you’re interviewing a new employee.

These tips can help you make the right choice.

Check your budget. As a business owner, meeting your budget is the difference between a good month and a bad one. Ask the company you’re considering for an estimate. Keep in mind, too, that quality remediation and cleaning work now can save you money on more extensive damages later.

Take a look at customer reviews. In today’s world, most commercial cleaning companies have an online presence. Spend some time seeing how past clients viewed their experiences.

Review their credentials. Licensed and certified cleaning companies can give you some peace of mind. That’s because you’ll know that an outside party recognizes the quality of work they do.

Explore the services they offer. You’ll want to choose a cleaning company that provides the widest variety of cleaning services and can create an individualized plan to meet your cleaning needs—whether that’s for a restoration project or a deep cleaning after virus exposure.

Make sure they’re accessible when you need them. Sometimes, you need professional cleaning services outside of regular business hours. Commercial cleaning services that make themselves easy to reach ²⁴⁄₇ can help you get started as soon as you need to. That’s especially important when you’re dealing with time-sensitive issues like water damage.

How SERVPRO® Can Help

When you choose SERVPRO for your commercial cleaning needs, you’ll have help from experts who are available ²⁴⁄₇ if you have an emergency need. Just reach out to us, and we’ll be sure you get certified clean results.

Our team uses leading-edge techniques, personalized cleaning plans and the latest technology to ensure that the work is done well and that your business is ready to open up. That means you’ll be able to greet your customers with confidence.

Want to learn more about what it means to be certified clean? Get in touch with us. We’re always here to help business owners.

Main Causes of Flooding in Rapid City Businesses

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help Rapid City Businesses Remain Open and Operational.

When speaking with local Rapid City business owners and property managers in regards to potential water damage situations, the knee-jerk reaction is to picture a massive storm, flooding offices, and shutting down businesses for days to weeks. It is true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods, but living in Rapid City storms of that degree few and far between.

 
However commercial water damage can happen all year but is usually focused in the fringe seasons, when the weather switched from hot to cold and vice-versa, and it can drastically affect the operation of your business. Here are some of usual culprits of water damage to commercial buildings. 
  

1. Faulty sprinkler systems 

Some offices and retail buildings still have old and outdated sprinkler systems that work together with fire protection systems. When a fire happens, these sprinklers are very useful in limiting damage, but they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are defective or in need of replacement.

2. Damaged equipment 

This cause of commercial water damage is more common in businesses that use appliances and equipment that make use of water, such as restaurants. If the appliance fails and sends water throughout your building, you will face a water emergency. This can be extra damaging if it occurs after hours and is left alone for long periods of time.
 
3. Broken pipes and plumbing 

Just like in a house, if the plumbing system in your property fails water damage could be the result. Bursting pipes are a regular occurrence in Calgary with our fluctuating weather patterns that can result in pipes freezing and thawing out rapidly.
 
4. Sewer Backups  

One last cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise, is the sewer backup. Should the sewer or sump pump to your building back up or become damaged it can result in Black Water rising into your building. Contaminated Black Water can cause adverse health effects and ruin products and office furnishings. SERVPRO of Rapid City has certified IICRC technicians that specialize with this type of water damage.
 
If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Rapid City will get you and your business back up and running again. Call us anytime at (605)388-3000!

Choosing the Right Cleaning Service for Your Small Business | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

10/21/2020 (Permalink)

No matter the need, SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to provide you with a rapid response.

Small business owners are some of the busiest people in the community.

Between managing the day-to-day operations of your company, dealing with your customer’s needs and working on plans for the future, small business owners like you wear many hats. When you’re just starting, you’re likely doing everything from functioning as the CEO to cleaning up your space.

But with time and growth, you may realize there are some functions you can’t fulfill by yourself. If your business needs commercial cleaning support, it’s good to reach out to experts in that area for help.

But how do you hire a commercial cleaning service? The answer might surprise you—because it’s not as tough as you might think. Just focus on some of the same questions you ask yourself when you’re interviewing a new employee.

These tips can help you make the right choice.

Check your budget. As a business owner, meeting your budget is the difference between a good month and a bad one. Ask the company you’re considering for an estimate. Keep in mind, too, that quality remediation and cleaning work now can save you money on more extensive damages later.

Take a look at customer reviews. In today’s world, most commercial cleaning companies have an online presence. Spend some time seeing how past clients viewed their experiences.

Review their credentials. Licensed and certified cleaning companies can give you some peace of mind. That’s because you’ll know that an outside party recognizes the quality of work they do.

Explore the services they offer. You’ll want to choose a cleaning company that provides the widest variety of cleaning services and can create an individualized plan to meet your cleaning needs—whether that’s for a restoration project or a deep cleaning after virus exposure.

Make sure they’re accessible when you need them. Sometimes, you need professional cleaning services outside of regular business hours. Commercial cleaning services that make themselves easy to reach ²⁴⁄₇ can help you get started as soon as you need to. That’s especially important when you’re dealing with time-sensitive issues like water damage.

How SERVPRO® Can Help

When you choose SERVPRO for your commercial cleaning needs, you’ll have help from experts who are available ²⁴⁄₇ if you have an emergency need. Just reach out to us, and we’ll be sure you get certified clean results.

Our team uses leading-edge techniques, personalized cleaning plans and the latest technology to ensure that the work is done well and that your business is ready to open up. That means you’ll be able to greet your customers with confidence.

Want to learn more about what it means to be certified clean? Get in touch with us. We’re always here to help business owners.

Time to get prepared for winter

10/15/2020 (Permalink)

Are you Ready for Winter?

Many people are not prepared for the quickly approaching winter season and the winter storms that bring frigid temperatures along with ice and snow.  SERVPRO of Rapid City recommends having a winter checklist for your home or business to help prevent water damage from winter storms.

Here are a few items to consider:

• Put weather stripping on doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering.
• Insulate water pipes to help prevent them from freezing and possibly bursting.
• Check your roof for possible leaks and loose or broken shingles.
• Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything flammable.
• Trim tree limbs that are close to the house.
• Clean gutters.
• Stock up on ice melt.

If your property is affected by a disaster, such as water damage, call the trusted professionals at SERVPRO of Rapid City at 605-388-3000; we are always are always here to help.

Tips to Keep Your Home Safe from Fire This Fall | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience any property damage due to a fire, we are here for you. Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City to learn more.

Are you ready for fall? Many people look forward to changing leaves, cooler days and fall sports like football. They also enjoy traditional fall activities like Halloween parties and visiting pumpkin patches or apple orchards.

But did you know that fall carries the highest risk for house fires to start? According to the American Red Cross, statistically most house fires happen in the fall and winter months.

Luckily there are steps you can take to lower your risk of a fire starting in your home. The first one is actually very simple. Just check the batteries in your home’s smoke detectors.

Working smoke detectors help keep your home and family safe. Experts recommend having a smoke detector in every bedroom.

If you have issues remembering when you need to change your smoke detector batteries, a good rule of thumb is to switch them every spring and fall when you change your clocks.

Don’t Forget Basic Fire Safety

Do you enjoy a big, happy bonfire with family and friends? If you do, you aren’t alone.

Bonfires are one of the most popular American fall activities. (And they’re a great way to make s’mores.) But if they aren’t properly attended, they can turn a fun night out into an accident waiting to happen.

Supervising a bonfire safely really comes down to keeping an eye on the fire. Don’t leave a fire burning by itself in your yard. If you’re done for the night, be sure to put out your bonfire so it doesn’t cause any unintended damage.

If there’s a fireplace in your home, then using it becomes more tempting on chilly fall nights. Before you light your first fire this fall, have a professional check out your chimney and fireplace to be sure it’s safe.

You don’t want to light a fire in a fireplace when the chimney is clogged or damaged. Having them check the condition of your home’s other heating units (like your furnace) can also help prevent fires caused by maintenance problems.

We’re Here if You Need Us

If an accident happens at your home this fall and you need help restoring fire or smoke damage, you don’t have to look far.

Our team is always ready to help you if a fire damages your home. Local experts can guide you through the fire restoration process and help get your home back in top shape.

We’re here to talk with you ²⁴⁄₇ if you need to learn more about our fire restoration process.

Don’t Let These Common Home Water Damage Culprits Cause Damage | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

9/23/2020 (Permalink)

Our team is always ready to help you after busted pipes or other water related issues. SERVPRO of Rapid City are the water restoration experts.

If you think most water damage is caused by storms, think again. While severe weather and floods do damage millions of homes every year, insurance claims from pipes, water heaters and appliance failures outpace those caused by natural disasters.

How do we know? Companies like iPropertyManagement and home insurers research common claims. And they’ve found that water damage that’s not related to severe weather is the second most common claim homeowners file.

Water damage claims caused by issues in the home account for billions of dollars in damage every year. An estimate from 2017 found that insurance companies paid out $13 billion in water damage claims. And some of the property damaged can’t be valued at all—things like wedding photos, baby books and heirlooms that money can’t replace.

Tips for Protecting Your Home

Sometimes accidents happen, and careful people can still suffer water damage from an appliance malfunctioning or a pipe bursting. But you can lower your risk by taking part in preventive home maintenance.

Busted pipes are one of the biggest culprits for flooding inside a home. The good news is that most plumbing has a long lifespan. (Galvanized steel pipes can last up to 70 years.) But even if you’re in a new home with new plumbing, watch your water bill. Spikes in your bill can indicate there’s a leak somewhere in your home.

Water heaters can last for 10 to 20 years—and cause a lot of damage if they bust. Do you know how old your water heater is? Or how frequently it needs to be replaced? If not, it’s easy to find out by taking a look at the label on the unit.

Your kitchen appliances are staples you use every day. But they do cause water damage—especially dishwashers and refrigerator ice makers. You can watch for early signs of leaks by checking out your refrigerator’s water supply line when you clean behind it. Also, inspect your dishwasher occasionally to look for signs of water leakage.

What happens if you can’t catch the leak?

Even the most diligent homeowners can sometimes miss a leak. Accidents happen. And when they do, it’s important to have your home professionally cleaned to protect you and your loved ones from mold and other issues that can arise after a water leak. That’s where our team of experts can help you.

Our team is always ready to help you after busted pipes, water heater leaks or appliance malfunctions damage your home. We’re here to talk with you ²⁴⁄₇ if you need to learn more about our water restoration process.

Get Ready to Weather the Storm | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

8/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to provide you with a rapid response. Contact us right away if you experience any storm damage.

No one knows in advance when severe weather will strike their neighborhood and possibly damage their home. But there are things you can do right now that will help ensure your home is prepared if the unexpected happens.

The National Weather Service can help you with more than checking the weather for the upcoming weekend. They also offer advice about how to get your home ready.

Trim tree limbs and remove dead branches and bushes. Tree limbs and dead trees can pose a threat to your home during high winds. Moving them away from your home can help spare your windows, roof, and siding.

Keep your gutters free of debris. This keeps your roof (and the rest of your home) safe from water damage during heavy rains. Over time, clogged gutters can cause damage to your home that isn’t related to a single storm, so it’s important to clean them out regularly.

Securing loose items. If you have time, this can help save both these items and your home from damage. These include items like patio furniture and grills.

Shut your doors and windows. This will protect the interior of your home against water damage. Remember, even a cracked window can let water into your home.

Getting Your Family Ready

You can learn more about how to put together a family emergency plan and what weather threats are common in your area by visiting Ready.gov.

While you’re there, you can download their app to your smartphone. This app is a great resource when you’re at home or traveling. It sends real-time alerts about severe weather near you to your phone, no matter where you are.

Cleaning Up Storm Damage

Hopefully, your family will never be hit by a storm. But if you are, expert cleaning can help get your family’s home back in order quickly. Plus, if there’s water damage, it can help protect you against mold later.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. We’re here to talk with you ²⁴⁄₇ if you need to learn more about our storm restoration process.

Picking the Right Company to Handle Storm Restoration | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Choosing the right restoration company is crucial to getting things back to normal. Call SERVPRO of Rapid City to set up an appointment.

Experiencing severe weather while you are at home or at work can be scary, and if you emerge into the aftermath to find that your property has been damaged, stress can add up. Storm damages continue to increase every year, leading to the necessity of being prepared in advance so you know how to handle it.

Working with the right company for storm restoration can go a long way. While it will certainly be a stressful time regardless, having a company you can count on beside you can make the process much more simple and stress-free. Here are some tips for determining if the company you are interested in is a good fit for you.

Determine if You Are Working With the Right Restoration Company After a Storm

Do you trust their reputation in the community? Storms can cause damage to a large area at once, leaving many people desperate for quick restoration and creating a market ripe for scams. Do your research on any company you are considering to make sure they carry a sound local and national reputation as restoration providers before you enter into any contracts with them.

Do you feel confident they can meet demand? Storm damage is unique both in the type of damage and the sheer volume of it. Not only can it cause multiple kinds of damage, but a storm will often impact a large area at one time. With our SERVPRO® partners across the nation, we can get as much backup as we need to handle every type and every incident of damage with the same incredible service we are known for.

Do you know they will always be there to help? Storms have no regard for what is and is not convenient for people, which is why we have you covered for damage at any time, even if it occurs after business hours or on a holiday. You can get in touch with us ²⁴⁄₇ to receive a comprehensive damage response plan and have a team dispatched to you as soon as you are ready.

When you have damage from a storm to your home or commercial building, you can always depend on us to handle it. Contact us at any hour to see our exceptional service in action.

Prevent Your Cookout From Being Ruined by a Fire | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City are the fire restoration experts. To learn more give us a call or contact us online.

We love a summer afternoon spent outdoors followed by a meal cooked on the grill, but with the fun of mastering the grill also comes the responsibility of preventing fires. Because grilling is a common activity, it is not rare to see safety standards become relaxed with time. The best way to prevent a fire is by always being vigilant about fire safety every time you light up the grill.

Many people assume that grill fires are fairly rare, but the U.S. Fire Administration has found that over 5,000 occur annually. These fires can range from small incidents to large emergencies, so we always recommend brushing up on your safety skills before you break out the tongs.

Brushing Up on Grilling Safety Skills

Create a safe zone around your grill. Putting your grill in a spot that is convenient is typically desired, but if the convenient spot is on a wooden deck or close to your home, it can be disastrous. Experts recommend keeping at least three feet around your grill that is clear of flammable objects just in case.

Clean your grill grates often. When you clean your grill grates often, you are not only making your cooking more consistent, but you are also cutting down on your fire risk. As grease builds up on grill grates, it can be heated to hotter and hotter temperatures each time the grill is on, eventually sparking a serious grease fire. Brushing your grates off after each use is a good habit to be in for preventing this.

Never leave the grill unattended. Grills are no exception to the rule that an open flame should never be left unattended. It only takes a moment for that fire to start, and if you are nearby with a fire extinguisher in that moment, you can seriously reduce the damage that is caused. Even for a quick break, ask someone else to take over for you just in case.

Inspect the grill regularly. Even if you are using your grill regularly, there is no telling what sort of dangerous wear and tear could occur. Gas tanks, hoses and connectors can wear down in time, and if you light the grill with a gas leak present, a disaster could quickly ensue. A simple visual inspection every time you grill can seriously cut down on this risk.

If you have a grill fire that does damage to your home, we are here to help. You can call us any time, day or night, to have a quick response from our restoration experts.

Tips to Stay Safe Regardless of Where a Summer Storm Finds You | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Have you been affected by a storm event? SERVPRO of Rapid City is available 24/7 and ready to assist you with any storm damage.

When you go outside to enjoy the warm weather, worrying about thunderstorms is probably not top of mind. However, thunderstorms can happen suddenly, especially when the humidity is high—and every thunderstorm does have the potential to be dangerous, no matter how quickly it comes and goes.

Even if you are on the go when a thunderstorm catches you, these tips can help you stay safe regardless of where you are.

Staying Safe From Thunderstorms on the Go

Know your options for shelter. The best case scenario for a thunderstorm is to find out about it safely at home and be able to stay put until the threat passes—but when you are running errands or on a trip, this is not always a viable option. You can take shelter in your car during a thunderstorm as long as you follow recommended guidelines like turning off the engine and avoiding contact with metal.

Practice electrical safety. If a building is hit by a lightning strike, the wires are generally how the electricity will transfer, which can be a big headache if you have electronics plugged in. Because standard electronics can be ruined by a power surge, unplugging them is your best scenario if you have the time. If not, you can install surge protectors at home and at work to reduce the likelihood of this happening to you.

Avoid direct contact with concrete. There are few things more structurally stable than concrete buildings, but part of what gives them this stability are the metal reinforcements in the concrete’s interior. Because of this, if you have to shelter in a concrete building, avoid leaning on the walls or sitting directly on the floor to prevent the possibility of electrical shock if lightning strikes the building.

Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes. If a severe storm interrupts your otherwise beautiful summer day, getting back outside is probably your top priority. You should make sure you are waiting an appropriate amount of time, however—there are reports of lightning traveling over 20 miles, so you should wait at least a half-hour after the last clap of thunder to head back out.

If your home sustains damage due to a storm, you can count on us to help. Contact us at any hour to learn more about our storm restoration process.

Starting Your Fire Escape Procedures for Your Business | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

If your business experiences any fire damage, you can count on us. SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in commercial fire restoration.

Business owners are no stranger to the necessity of planning ahead for changes to the market, but have you considered how a fire could change your plans? Commercial fires impact many businesses every month, and generally, those that are better prepared have an easier time recovering.

Deciding where to start for your fire safety plans may feel overwhelming, but we always recommend starting with setting up a plan for regular fire evacuation drills with your employees. This will keep everyone safer if a fire were to start and create a comprehensive procedure that everyone will know to follow to quickly and calmly get to safety.

Have a Plan for Recovering From a House Fire | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

If your home is damaged in a house fire, SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to help. Contact us for any fire restoration needs.

Having a plan for the moment a house fire starts is one of the best things you can do to boost your household’s safety. Getting everyone out of the house and calling for help in an organized manner is key, but it is also important to know what happens once the flames are extinguished.

Navigating the aftermath of a house fire is a complicated process, but with these helpful tips, you can make sure you are taking care of all the necessary considerations.

DO you have a completed ERP?

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Download the App today!

We have a program called ERP (Emergency Ready Profile). It’s a profile we put together in case of an emergency in your home or business. It’s good for employees, babysitters, or house sitters. The profile is designed to help people that have an emergency occur in their property. For example, if you have water damage, and you need to shut off your water supply, the profile will show a picture of what the shut off looks like, and a description of where it’s at. It will also have contact information in case the homeowner or building manager is not available.

WHY SERVPRO? We offer this FREE profile to anyone. All we need is just a little of your time, and we can make you better prepared for any type of emergency or disaster.

Call SERVPRO of Rapid City 605-388-3000!

Increase Your Preparedness Before Severe Weather Strikes | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

5/21/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, SERVPRO of Rapid City will respond quickly to assist in any repairs.

When a thunderstorm is in the area, it is difficult to determine how much damage will be done. Storms can be unpredictable in their patterns, causing severe damage in one area and no damage in another. For this reason, it is important to always be prepared when storms are in the forecast, as you never know what the outcome will be.

By being aware of weather notice terms, making sure your household is ready and having reliable access to weather updates, you can be as prepared as possible for a severe storm to come through the area.

Be Aware of Weather Notice Terms

The notices issued by local weather officials are a helpful way to receive pertinent information regarding your threat level and the next steps to take toward safety. The issuance of a severe weather watch means to stand by and stay informed—conditions point to severe weather occurring, but it has not yet begun. When a severe weather warning is issued, that means that severe weather is active in the area and you should take the appropriate actions to get to safety and stay in place.

Make Sure Your Household Is Ready

While you may not think of an emergency kit as something you use during storms, it is actually a great thing to have on hand. Electricity will often go out, making non-perishable food, filtered water, flashlights and batteries must-haves. It is also wise to make sure you have simple medical supplies handy. You should also designate a safe spot to hunker down while the storm is in your area, such as a bathroom or ground floor hallway, to protect your family from the elements.

Have Reliable Access to Weather Updates

Though our cell phones have revolutionized the way we receive news and important updates about the world, they are not as useful in the event of severe weather. Because cell reception can be faulty during severe weather and electrical outages can render phones without a full charge useless, it is best to have another way to access weather updates. A NOAA Weather Radio is a smart solution for this that you can keep in your disaster kit at all times.

If your home has been impacted by storm damage, we are here for you. You can contact us ²⁴⁄₇ to get a quick response to your home’s damages.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned – a defensive cleaning program

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Let people know that you care by displaying your commitment to cleanliness

Let us help you get back to business

As our communities re-open, we’re all moving back toward a new kind of normal. The expectations of visitors, customers, and employees who come into our establishments have evolved, and staying safe and well is a top concern. The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean, and we’ve developed a program to help your business meet the new higher standard of clean that is now expected.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program we’re offering to businesses and commercial locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic. This proactive viral pathogen cleaning program goes well beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning. By choosing Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you, your employees, your customers, and your community can rest assured that you’ve selected a higher cleaning standard – you are Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Extensive training and specialized products

As the #1 choice in cleanup and restoration*, we stand on more than 50 years of experience and expertise to help your business become Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.  Beyond fire & water, SERVPRO professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills – always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. 

From formulating and creating our proprietary cleaning products, like SERVPROXIDE, at our headquarters in Gallatin, TN, to taking the utmost care while disinfecting, we will ensure you and your business are set up to inspire consumer confidence as the economy continues to reopen.

3 C’s – Consult, Clean, and Certify

When the stakes are this high, you want a partner who has developed an industry leading, proprietary training program, cleaning solutions, and remediation processes over decades. We’ve cleaned up some of the most challenging biohazards imaginable. Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned reflects our unique experiences and capabilities. The program is grounded with our unique 3 C’s: Consult, Clean, and Certify.

• Consult – Every business is different, which is why you’ll be assigned a Cleaning Protocol Consultant who understands your business and will create a cleaning program to meet your specific needs. This program will be developed based on your business type, size of space, amount of high frequency touchpoints, foot traffic and congestion points.
• Clean – Based on your specific business needs, your location will undergo a thorough, deep clean, using exclusive cleaning products, according to protocols set forth by the CDC. Our employees have years of experience, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform. Cleanup procedures generally include cleaning of porous and non-porous surfaces, disinfecting of non-porous surfaces, cleaning and disinfecting of equipment, tools, and/or supplies used for cleanup process, and disposal of hazardous materials.  In the event of a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 event, we will be there cleaning within 24 hours to ensure you get back to business as quickly as possible. 
• Certify - Once your business location has been Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, you will gain access to proprietary signage, digital emblems, and other collateral that communicates that you’ve selected a higher standard of clean available to help protect your employees and customers. And because we add the day, month, and year to that proprietary stamp of clean, your guests will know that not only did you choose Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, but that your location is being cleaned regularly at this standard.

Call today for a Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation

We’re Here to Help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – until life is back to normal in the communities we all call home.

Call SERVPRO of Rapid City today at  605-388-3000 for your Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned consultation.

The Kinds of Water Damage That We See After Heavy Rain | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

5/8/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy rains can cause serious water damage. SERVPRO of Rapid City have the trained technicians to fully restore your home.

Water damage can be caused by a whole host of things, but it is rare that it is as obvious or as sudden as you may assume it to be. In fact, we receive many calls following regular, steady rain showers, which often expose a home’s vulnerability to water after periods of heavy rainfall.

Understanding why (and where) this happens is the best way to prepare for it—and how to call us as soon as you notice signs of water damage so we can help.

The 6-Step Approach We Take for Water Restoration | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

When dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City for prompt & dependable service.

Discovering that you have fallen victim to moisture damage is disheartening, but quickly taking action to start restoration is vital.

That is why we make sure our customers can call us at any time of the day or night to get their restoration started. Here is how our water restoration process works:

<h3steps-to-water-damage-restoration">6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration

1. Initial Emergency Contact
There is no limit to when water damage could strike, so we are here to answer your call at any hour. When you report water damage to us, we will ask you any pertinent questions to establish an overview of the damage so we can assemble the best response team to dispatch to you.

2. Inspection and Damage Assessment
We take safety very seriously, so the next step we will take is to check for any safety hazards or hidden leaks that could exacerbate the damage. After this, we will do an assessment of the damages that have occurred and review our restoration plan with you before we get started.

3. Moisture Extraction
Getting excess moisture out of the area is vital to mitigating any damages so we will take measures to pump and vacuum it out as quickly as we are able to—and considering our equipment can move hundreds of gallons of water at a time, we can generally do so quickly.

4. Dehumidifying and Drying
Once the standing moisture is removed, we swap out the pumps for dryers and dehumidifying tools to pull the moisture out of the pores of your home’s surfaces and structures as well as your belongings. Doing this thoroughly and quickly is the best defense against dangerous mold growth after water damage.

5. Cleaning Belongings
Contaminants and odors can linger long after the physical signs of water damage are gone, which is why we make sure to sanitize and deodorize everything that has been affected. This way you know your belongings are safe to use and do not have to worry about odors developing.

6. Restoration and Repair
We always guarantee a complete restoration after water damage, so we will handle all the cosmetic and structural repairs necessary to make your room look the same as it did before the damages. We can handle paint, flooring and other finishing touches for a full restoration job.

If your home has been water-damaged, you can count on us to help. Call us ²⁴⁄₇ to get the process started.

What Steps to Take in the Aftermath of a Flood | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

If you’re experiencing any water damage from flooding, SERVPRO of Rapid City is available 24/7 to assist you with any repairs.

Because flooding events are becoming more and more common across the country, being prepared for how to react if one impacts your home is wise. It is normal to want to clean up quickly when you sustain flood damage, but it is essential to make sure you are taking smart steps and making your safety a priority when you do so.

Why sump pumps fail

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Keep your sump pump in tip top shape

Power Failure

Your primary sump pump should not be treated any different than any other appliance in your home - without power, it is completely worthless.  As a safeguard, invest in a high-quality battery back-up sump pump.   A battery kept continually charged by the backup system operates a separate pump linked to the discharge pipe, providing you hours of protection until power is restored. Some backup pumps even monitor the condition of the battery and alert you when it needs to be replaced.

Frozen Discharge Pipe

If the discharge pipe is not installed pitched properly, water will collect and eventually freeze, causing a blockage. 

Switch Stuck in Place

There are several different types of sump float switches.  Vertical and tethered floats are the most common.  Vertical floats seem to work the best as tethered floats are known for getting stuck on the side walls of the sump pit (resulting in a flooded basement). 

Over-worked / Under-Powered Sump Pump

Not all pumps are created equal.  Make sure you install the correct horsepower pump capable of keeping up with your flow of water.   

Old Age

It is generally recommended that sump pumps should be replaced every five to seven years in order to be reasonably safe. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

Have a water damage from a sump pump failure? Call SERVPRO of Rapid City at (605) 388-3000

Are you ready for disaster?

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

Make sure your ready for all everything!

Have You Planned?

Preparing Your Home for an Emergency

Have you ever stopped to wonder what it is like for those who have suffered the loss of everything they own and love in a home fire? Have you ever wondered what it would be like if it were you?

If you have stopped to think about the impact a fire or other related emergency could have on you and your family, then you’re a step ahead! If not, it is time to start emergency planning now because the best thing you can be in the event of an emergency is, ready.

It is important to keep in mind every second counts and having a plan in place could mean the difference between life and death.

Here are some tips to help properly prepare:

1. Plan and practice your emergency escape route
2. Locate all known and potential exits from your home
3. Purchase a home fire extinguisher and store it in a safe, easy-to-locate place
4. Install and properly maintain a smoke detector
5. Ask your local fire department to inspect your home for fire safety

In addition to the steps mentioned above, SERVPRO offers an Emergency Ready Profile for your home or business. This profile contains all important information such as water and gas shut off locations and key contacts in one convenient location.

If you are interested in getting your home or business ready for a possible emergency, call us today! (605) 388-3000

We Strive to Restore your Life to the way it was.

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

We are here to SERV

What happens when your smoke detector goes off in the middle of the night? Well, for most of us, we get up, grab the kids and pets, and then evacuate. At that moment, we aren't thinking about our things, the memories saved in the pictures on your wall. At that moment, all we can think about is getting our family out safely.

Then the shock sets in. You are watching your home burn, and it hits you, the realization of what is happening, and you start to think of everything you had to leave inside. The fire department shows up, puts out the fire, the house is boarded up and you either must stay with a friend, family member or in a hotel.

The next day you arrive on-site with a restoration team. Feeling a little hopeless as you go through your home seeing the destruction from the fire, not knowing there is still hope. The restoration company is telling you how they can save that old chest your grandmother passed down, or they can restore the pictures on the wall.

Here at SERVPRO of Rapid City, we are here to walk with you through those times. We can help pack up the house, taking special care that nothing else gets damaged before we start restoring your home to what it was before the fire. We have special equipment to help remove the smell of smoke from the undamaged parts of the house while we work diligently to give you back your home. And when that day comes, we will greet with smiles as we say Welcome Home.

Property Managers Wanted!!

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

We work great with property managers!!!

At SERVPRO of Rapid City, we work with a wide range of types of property managers.  The term property management is defined as:

The process of managing property that is leased to a tenant. This includes handling all day-to-day activities that are centered around this specified property. Properties may include residential, commercial and/or industrial real estate including single family dwellings, apartment complexes, hotel facilities, condominium units and shopping centers.  

We know that property management encompasses an exponentially large pool of possible remediation/maintenance scenarios. We have developed customized cleaning services to meet the needs of each type of the property management industry. We have undergone additional training targeted towards facing the mitigation challenges that a large or multi-tenant property may present. We are also in the business of operating a business, so most importantly we understand that downtime means revenue lost. We have the experience to get any job, no matter how large, done quickly and efficiently. We also offer a free service to help you prepare for the unexpected. Our Emergency Ready Profile can help save time and money should you experience damage. Call our offices at 605-388-3000 for more information or if you would like to put together an ERP please call our office to schedule a time.

Is your kit ready?

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Kit for 2 people for 3 days

The American Red Cross encourages that each household and car have a preparedness kit, but unfortunately only 51.5% of US homes reportedly have an emergency kit ready. Kits should include the following:

• water
• canned food
• a can opener
• flashlights
• batteries
• including enough food
• water for each person in your household for 5 days

Start with a power outage kit, grab an old backpack or duffel and add in plenty of bottled water, battery-operated radio and clock, flashlight for each member of your household including extra batteries, non-electric can opener, list of emergency phone numbers including family and friends and a first aid kit.

SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. We can handle any size disaster!

Call SERVPRO of Rapid City (605)388-3000

How to take steps to minimize a loss during a fire befor it happens.

3/18/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let your business burn!

Did you know that fire is the most common cause of property damage? The key to protecting your business is your employees having education on fire safety and protocol. Here are a few fire prevention tips!

1. Clean your space- Keep your workplace clean and everything put away. Keep electrical appliances away from the fuel such as paper and cardboard.
2. Maintain your fire extinguishers- Check with your local fire department to ensure your extinguisher is up to code. You should also educate employees on how to use the extinguisher.
3. Install fire sprinklers or suppression system- all businesses have a fire alarm system, but you should also consider insatalling a sprinkler system.
4. Maintain Outdoor Spaces- if your business is in a dry or forested area take time to ensure you keep brush and trees from growing against the building.
5. Have Exit Strategy - Always have an emergency plan and make sure your employees are aware of this plan, include things like maps to exits as well as well-lit exit signs
6. Clean and Inspect all equipment- Faulty equipment is a common cause of fires. Make sure machines are in proper working order and turn them off when not in use.

Taking these simple steps can help prevent fires ruining what you’ve worked so hard for. If you would like help developing a plan please contact SERVPRO of Rapid City to help you put together an Emergency Readiness Plan.

Weatherproofing Tips for Homeowners | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

3/10/2020 (Permalink)

If you have any storm damage, SERVPRO of Rapid City is here to help. We are available 24/7 and ready to assist you when you need it most.

Severe weather can cause significant and unpredictable damages to the home, but there are ways that homeowners can make their houses more resilient. Taking time to increase your home’s weatherproofing can go a long way—and considering that about half of insurance claims are due to weather, it is something that would benefit homeowners to take seriously.

Adding weatherproofing to your home is a fairly simple process that can provide homeowners with valuable peace of mind the next time severe weather is in the forecast. Keep reading to learn about the most effective weatherproofing methods you can implement around the house.

Lowering Your Fire Risk as a Business Owner | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

If your business has experienced a fire, call SERVPRO of Rapid City. We provide a full service from mitigation to restoration.

It is crucial that business owners be honest with themselves about the risks their livelihood faces, including emergency situations. Commercial fires are one of the most common emergencies that business owners will face and they can be extremely devastating, especially for those who are not prepared. By understanding your risk profile and knowing how your efforts can reduce the dangers you face, you can help protect your business and staff.

For an easy way to reference fire safety tips, we have compiled a list of the top tips for fire safety from a business owner’s perspective. By reviewing this list and implementing the recommendations, you can do wonders for your fire safety efforts.

For Storm Damage, You Can Trust Us | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is your Damage Restoration expert. If you experience any storm damage call us right away.

Storms occur quite often, which can lead individuals to forget the amount of damage they can potentially cause. Storm damages are one of the most frequent reasons why homeowners file with their insurance companies and led to around $2 billion in losses to households during 2018.

It is wise to remember just how damaging storms can be and have a plan in place in case storm damage happens to you.

When you need storm restoration, choosing a company you trust to do quality work is key. That is why we are here to tell you everything you need to know about our restoration process:

How to Increase Your Efforts in Fire Safety | SERVPRO® of Rapid City

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

A house fire can occur when you least expect it. SERVPRO of Rapid City is on call 24/7 and will guide you through any fire restoration project.

Considering that a fire might occur in your home can be scary, but it is an important thing to think about. Fires can cause severe damage to the home, but thankfully, putting proper fire safety measures in place can limit the likelihood of one occurring as well as the damages if it does.

There are many resources circulating online with fire safety materials, but it can often be a challenge to find everything in one place. That is why we have provided an overview of all the most important tips to keep in mind to increase your household fire safety.

Commercial Post Construction Clean-up

11/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City finished another large construction clean-up project!

Whether you are building a new commercial structure from the ground up, or simply taking on a long overdue renovation project, it is a big job!  The entire construction process can be lengthy, stressful and messy!  After the job is complete you may be left with an even bigger mess to cleanup before you get your business up and running.  Let SERVPRO of Rapid City take care of that headache for you.  Our full line of specialized cleaning services includes post-construction cleaning.  You wouldn’t hire a car mechanic to repair an airplane, so why hire a maid service to tackle the big stuff?  You need a specialist with the staff, equipment and techniques to handle a large job.  Our highly trained team members will clean every inch of your newly finished project and make it shine for your opening day.  As part of a national franchise system with over 40 years in the cleaning industry, SERVPRO of Rapid City knows how to deliver on our promise of outstanding results.  Call us today at 605-388-3000 for more information. 

Employee Spotlight - SERVPRO of Rapid City

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City updated team photo

We keep growing and felt it was time to update our Group Photo.

L to R Back Row:  David Peters, Brittany Rambo, Jessica Digmann, Teresa Bauer, Brian Tucker, Randy Brunsen, Michael Butzen, Mario Kursave, Jesse Bauer.

L to R Front Row:  Hailey Thorson, Tawnee Barry, Kim Goodwin/Peters, Chelcey Sheilds Barnes, Chris Burks, Shay Christy, Herb Weidmann

With every water, fire, or flood comes a flood of emotions. There is a certain amount of uncertainty, and a loss of control. It can be your home, business or your belongings that have  become damaged you don't just want things to be clean. You want your life back, as well. You look to us, SERVPRO of Rapid City, to handle the situation.

Our team takes to the streets, every hour of every day. Proving that wherever there's a house full of water, or an office filled with smoke, there is also a van full of clean. SERVPRO of Rapid City can make it "Like it never even happened." 

SERVPRO of Rapid City is always investing in the training of their staff!

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

Who do you call when a disaster strikes!

SERVPRO of Rapid City recently had 2 additional Crew Chief's and a Production Manager obtain certifications in (WRT) Water Restoration Technician and (ASD) Applied Structural Drying from the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Remediation).

The Water Damage Restoration Technician and Applied Structural drying courses are designed to teach our restoration personnel who perform remediation work a better concept of water damage, it’s effects on all materials, and techniques for the drying of structures. These courses have given our residential and commercial maintenance personnel the background to understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses and how to effectively dry out a structure. 

SERVPRO of Rapid City's emergency services personnel can inspect materials for restorability, cleanability and start the appropriate extraction and drying procedures as soon as possible to minimize disruptions in your home or business.  We also work directly with your insurance!  Contact SERVPRO of Rapid City 24 hours a day at 605-388-3000

EMERGENCY READY PROFILE

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Plan

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are "Ready for whatever happens."

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your commercial facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off Valve Locations and Priority Areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO's free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP also establishes SERVPRO of Rapid City as your preferred SERVPRO franchise in the event of a disaster. Having a plan in place helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive following a disaster.

The ERP is a no-cost assessment that requires little time and can save you a lot of time and money in the future.

Call Kim Goodwin at SERVPRO of Rapid City at 605-388-3000 to inquire about your ERP today!

SERVPRO of Rapid City sponsors the Rapid City Rush

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

Esporta Cleaning System

SERVPRO of Rapid City has partnered with The Rapid City Rush again this year! SERVPRO of Rapid City helped make their first road trip by deep cleaning their bus.  They are off to a great start having 2 "SERVPRO of Rapid City Clean Sweeps" of their first 2 opponents!  We have also joined their "Chuck-A-Puck" group for a $40 off any service that SERVPRO of Rapid City offers.  The Rush Nation is on the move again this year.  We hope to see you all at the home games!  

SERVPRO of Rapid city will also be cleaning the players hockey gear.  Our Esporta cleaning machine is the only one in the black hills area!  

So much more than a washing machine, the Esporta system can restore items that have been severely damaged by water, smoke, soot, mold, or bio-waste. It can remove 99% of all contaminants. ( that's equal to food grade quality) 

For more information on the Esporta Cleaning Machine please call Kim Goodwin at 605-388-3000.

When the ice moves in to Western SD are you Ready?

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

It's that time of year!

Damage from Cold Weather or Winter Storm?

In Western South Dakota, cold weather, snow, and ice storms can cause severe damage to your home or business. When these types of disasters strike, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO of Rapid City has the winter storm experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather. 

SERVPRO of Rapid City Professionals

• Provide 24/7 Emergency Service
• Highly Trained Winter Storm Restoration Specialists
• Faster to Any Size Disaster 

Frozen Pipes

Extreme cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. SERVPRO of Rapid City can quickly and safely repair water damage caused by frozen pipes.

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Garages

 Ice Dams

An ice dam is formed when snow melts unevenly on a roof and refreezes into a dam at the edge of the roof, near the eaves. This dam prevents any further snowmelt from draining off of the roof. This standing water can back up under shingles, leak into a home, and cause significant water damage to ceilings, walls, and other areas. Ice dams can also tear off gutters and loosen shingles.

Roof Damage

Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your gutters and roof. The additional weight of snow and ice can even cause a roof to collapse. When there’s a cold snap, water can get into cracks and small spaces and expand when it freezes, causing larger cracks and more damage. The repetition of freezing and thawing cycles can cause small cracks to get larger. 

Why Choose a SERVPRO of Rapid City? 

• We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster. SERVPRO of Rapid City is dedicated to responding immediately to water emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost. 

• We're Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists. SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage restoration training that helps you get back to normal more quickly.
  • Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • Applied Structural Drying Technicians 

Regardless of the Winter Storm, We Can Help! Give us a call at 605-388-3000!

Getting Rid of Cigarette Smoke Odor

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

A clean smelling home sells faster!

Getting Rid of Cigarette Smoke Odor

It's obvious to a non-smoker when a home smells like cigarettes.  The smell of tobacco and/or cigarette smoke and tar is stubborn because it "sticks" to all surfaces as it spreads through the air. So, how do you get rid of the cigarette odor? 

The short answer is that it's very difficult.  ALL surfaces in the home need to be scrubbed and deodorized, including the: flooring, walls, furniture, appliances, knick-knacks, and clothing. Even the air in the home needs to be deodorized during the process.  It's not an easy task, but the experts at SERVPRO® of Rapid City have done it many times and are more than willing to help you.  We have several techniques and a qualified crew to help you, help your customer sell their property faster.  Give us a call today at 605-388-3000 and help your customer start breathing easier about selling their home.

What happens if you have even a small fire in your house?

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

Fireplace season is nearly upon us!

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action. 

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Rapid City will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore, smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 605-388-3000

What is lurking in your ducts?

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

What's Lurking in your Ducts?

Duct cleaning generally refers to the cleaning of various heating and cooling system components of forced air systems, including the supply and return air ducts and registers, grilles and diffusers, heat exchangers heating and cooling coils, condensate drain pans (drip pans), fan motor and fan housing, and the air handling unit housing.

If not properly installed, maintained and operated, these components may become contaminated with particles of dust, pollen or other debris. If moisture is present, the potential for microbiological growth (e.g., mold) is increased and spores from such growth may be released into the air of your commercial business. Some of these contaminants may cause allergic reactions or other symptoms in people if they are exposed to them.

Ventilation systems are often the biggest culprit in poor indoor air quality. Make it a priority to inspect the ductwork of your business.

If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating one or more of the following:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

The benefits of servicing your HVAC unit include:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency.
• May help to eliminate offensive odors.
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth.

For more information on air duct cleaning, call us at SERVPRO of Rapid City today, 605-388-3000

Let Us Help You Get Ready For The Holiday Season

11/1/2019 (Permalink)

The holiday season is upon us, are you prepared?

With the Holiday Season fast approaching its that time again to make sure your carpet and home are looking great for all your Holiday party's and family that will be visiting. Let the crews from SERVPRO of Rapid City help take that stress away. We have general cleaning crews that will help get the Summer and Fall mess looking "Like it never even happened."

Call and book your cleaning services now so all the relatives are envious of how clean your house is for the Holidays. We provide the following services. 

• Carpet Cleaning
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Cleaning of Drapes and Blinds. 
• Ceiling, Walls and Hard Floors.
• Duct Cleaning
• Deodorization

We will also perform janitorial cleaning of commercial spaces.  Daily, Weekly and Monthly available! Call 605-388-3000 and schedule today!

LET'S TALK TURKEY SAFETY!

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Turkey Day (aka - Thanksgiving) is right around the corner and it is that time of the year again when family and friends come together for a feast. There are several ways to cook a turkey, but a favorite among some is deep fried. Unfortunately, we have all seen the videos (https://youtu.be/tSI79ZftCpU) that end in a fiery ball of poultry. If you plan on deep frying a turkey this year, please keep the following tips in mind. 

• Thaw and Dry turkey completely before cooking.
  • Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator approximately 24 hours for every 5 pounds, according to The National Turkey Federation (http://www.eatturkey.com/).
  • Ice or water that mixes can cause flare-ups
• Fryer Setup
  • Use fryer OUTDOORS and away from decks, garages, home, and other structures.
  • Keep children and pets away from the fryer. 
  • Use on a flat surface to avoid accidental tipping. Make sure the tank and burner are at least 2+ feet apart.
• Measure the Oil
  • Avoid overfilling by reading the manufacturer’s instructions. 
• Be Prepared (SAFETY FIRST!)
  • Use oven mitts to protect hands and/or arms.
  • Safety goggles to protect eyes
  • Have a grease-rated fire extinguisher nearby and ready.
• Finishing Act
  • Remove pot from burner and place on a level surface.
  • Allow oil to cool overnight before disposing of oil in a sealed container.

Most importantly, NEVER LEAVE FRYERS UNATTENDED!! Please be careful this holiday season and share these tips with your friends and family that enjoy fried turkey.

If you do become a victim of a deep-fryer fire, SERVPRO® of Rapid City is here to help. We are available 24/7/365 days a year @ 605-388-3000.

SERVPRO® of Rapid City would like everyone to have a safe holiday season with their family and friends.

The 10th Annual Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Hope to see you at this year's Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival!

Downtown Rapid City's biggest festival, The Great Downtown Pumpkin Festival, returns for the 10th year. This year's event is scheduled for September 29th, from 9AM to 5PM in the downtown area! Come to see all the fun activities in Main Street Square, along Sixth St., and Memorial Park. This event is a day full of fall fun including a pumpkin catapult (also known as punkin chunkin), giant pumpkin weigh-off, downtown pub crawl, Regional Health and Scull Construction Kidz Zone, pony rides, vendors and more. Last year's giant pumpkin winner weighed in at almost 1,000 pounds!! We hope to see everyone at this awesome event with fun for the whole family and remember to give us a call 24/7/365 for all your fire & water restoration needs. 

Water damaged contents

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage can occur in your home due to many issues; a pipe break, a roof leak, dishwasher overflow, and many more. We often think about our home as the walls, floors and how they can be affected and damaged from water, but one area that can be overlooked is contents. Your contents or treasures or family heirlooms or weekend garage-sale finds that have been DIY’ d to perfection are what turn a house into a home. So when water pours through your ceiling soaking your favorite chair, or that first “adult” purchase that was not assembled using an Allen wrench, it can be very upsetting.

SERVPRO® of Rapid City are Here To Help® when disaster strikes your home, we are available 24/7, 365 at 605-388-3000. #LikeItNeverEvenHappened #HereToHelp #SERVPRORapidCity

The Importance of Acting Quickly after a Disaster

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is available 24/7/365 for all your disaster needs.

When a disaster strikes, it is imperative to respond quickly in order to prevent further damages and complications. Fires, mold infestations and floods from broken pipes, overflows or heavy storms – all such disasters must be dealt with in a timely manner. If not handled immediately you could experience on or more of these issues:

• If water-damaged structures and contents are not dried out quickly and correctly, potential health risks can develop. Mold can begin to grow within the first 24 to 48 hours after the disaster.
• Excessive water can cause: rusting in metals, corrosion in electronic components, cracking, splitting or warping of furniture items, color bleeding or transfer in fabrics, furniture stains and secondary damage to upholstery, drapery, clothing, wallpaper, photos and papers.
• Fire or smoke damaged properties can also experience irreversible damage, regardless of the size of the fire. Soot residue is highly acidic and can pit or corrode the metal in doorknobs, plumbing fixtures, light fixtures, etc. It can also etch glass in windows, mirrors and cabinets, causing them to look soiled and cloudy. Moreover, plastics, appliances, fabrics and vinyl windows can become discolored.
• The safety and security of the home can be compromised. Windows and doors may become weak and function improperly, wet materials may collapse and electrical installations and components can be a health hazard when they come in contact with water. Slips and falls are also potential dangers.

If you’re not sure how to act after experiencing water, fire or mold problems in your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Rapid City at 605-388-3000. We have a team of restoration professionals ready 24/7/365 to help you.

Rapid City Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by a recent storm.

Water damage in a basement can cost home owners thousands of dollars to fix. When water gets into a structure and it is dried incorrectly, rot, mold and mildew can form making the occupants extremely ill. Trained and certified to the highest standards in the industry, our professional production team responds immediately - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - to mitigate loss and meet every challenge with professionalism, reliability, compassion and respect. Our technicians identify the full extent of moisture damage, both obvious and unseen, by using sensors such as moisture detectors and state of the science technology.  Meanwhile, we help homeowners overcome their feeling of helplessness by explaining the process in a way that they can understand what is happening, what to expect, and what they can do. SERVPRO of Rapid City’s commitment to customer excellence includes insurance professionals; which means that insurance agents and claims adjusters can expect effective, ongoing communication and reporting. We understand insurance industry requirements. Our professional production team will provide a complete estimate, including photos, to the agent or adjuster within 24-48 hours. Call SERVPRO of Rapid City and get quality water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold and mildew removal and if your home, business or insurance customer needs one of our large selection of biohazard removal services, we are ready, trained and equipped to provide you with any clean up, mitigation and restoration service.  Call us today at 605-388-3000!

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO of Rapid City is ready!

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage.

SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition. 

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Black Hills, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 605-388-3000

Emergency Ready Profile

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) will help ensure you and your business are "Ready for whatever happens."

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile, can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your commercial facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off Valve Locations and Priority Areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO's free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP also establishes SERVPRO of Rapid City as your preferred SERVPRO franchise in the event of a disaster. Having a plan in place helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive following a disaster.

The ERP is a no-cost assessment that requires little time and can save you a lot of time and money in the future.

Call Brian of SERVPRO of Rapid City at 605-388-3000 to inquire about your ERP today!

are "Ready for whatever happens."

In the event of an emergency, the SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your commercial facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including: Emergency Contact Information, Shut-off Valve Locations and Priority Areas. The ERP is also accessible online using your computer or tablet; download SERVPRO's free Ready Plan app to access this information at any time using your smartphone or tablet.

The ERP also establishes SERVPRO of Rapid City as your preferred SERVPRO franchise in the event of a disaster. Having a plan in place helps minimize the amount of time your business is inactive following a disaster.

The ERP is a no-cost assessment that requires little time and can save you a lot of time and money in the future.

Call Brian of SERVPRO of Rapid City at 605-388-3000 to inquire about your ERP today!

September is National Preparedness Month - 2018

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

Go to www.ready.gov for more information about how to plan for disasters!

September is National Preparedness Month! During this month we urge everyone to take the time to learn lifesaving skills − such as CPR and first aid, check your insurance policies and coverage for the hazards you may face, such as flood, earthquakes, and tornadoes. Make sure to consider the costs associated with disasters and save for an emergency. Also, know how to take practical safety steps like shutting off water and gas.

The devastating hurricanes and wildfires of 2017 & now again in 2018 reminded the nation of the importance of preparing for disasters.  Often, we will be the first ones in our communities to take action after a disaster strikes and before first responders arrive, so it is important to prepare in advance to help yourself and your community.

SERVPRO of Rapid City would like to say "Thank You" to all those first responders and everyone involved when disasters strike. We are available 24/7 - 365 @ 605-388-3000 if you have a water or fire disaster in your home or business.

What are the different types of M-O-L-D?

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

M-O-L-D!!

There are three different classes of mold. Mold found in homes can be broken down into different classes based on their level of health risks.

• Hazard Class A - Molds classified as Class A are the most hazardous types. These molds can directly impact health. It is critical to remove this classification of mold from the home immediately in order to eliminate the dangers. 
• Hazard Class B - This classification is less hazardous than Class A molds, but can still affect people's health. This group can cause allergic reactions, especially with prolonged exposure.
• Hazard Class C - The types of mold in this group are not known for causing health risks but it can cause structural damage if left untouched.

If mold is present in the home then it is important to have it removed as soon as possible to eliminate possible health risks and further damages. The professionals at SERVPRO of Rapid City will be able to efficiently remove the mold infestation from the property. Give us a call @ 605-388-3000! 

Faster to your Water Damage Event

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City provides 24/7 - 365 fire and water damage restoration services. Give us a call at 605-388-3000!

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Rapid City provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Rapid City arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service?

Call Us 24/7 - 605-388-3000

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

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

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of Rapid City

SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Will Your Homeowner's Insurance Cover Water Damage?

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let your water damage or leak problems go unaddressed! It can cost you more in the long run, please CALL US AT 605-388-3000 for an estimate!

Most people learn a great deal about their homeowner’s insurance policy after there’s been an event— which is not the ideal time to have a crash course in coverage. At SERVPRO of Rapid City, we see quite a few policies and situations. Although the details vary from one state to another and from one policy to another, we can share some general guidelines.

If you live in a flood-prone area— not just near a waterway, but in an area that’s frequently hit by major storms— you should consider getting flood insurance. Most insurance policies don’t cover floods, which are the most common natural disaster in the nation. Between 2008 and 2012, the average flood claim was $42,000-plus. Not something you want to pay out of pocket!

Water Damage vs. Flood: What’s the Difference?

Water damage, as covered in the homeowner’s policy includes ‘instances of water hitting your home before touching the outside ground’. (No, we’re not making this up.) Damage from a leaky roof or broken pipe are insured. So too is mold that results from those accidents. But mold resulting from a flood won’t be covered unless you have separate flood insurance.

It’s important to note that it is the damage to your home that’s insured, not the actual item that failed. So if a busted pipe was the source of the problem, the ruined carpet will be covered but not the broken pipe.

FEMA estimates that just six inches of water can cause $20,000 in damage.

Here are some things flood insurance generally does cover:

• Building & foundation
• Electrical & plumbing
• Permanently installed carpet, paneling & furniture
• Removal of debris
• Built-in appliances

Homeowners do have some protection, though. Our team can usually help you decipher the language in your policy. And remember, you are not required to accept the lowest bid on restoration work. Repair rates should reflect the prevailing charges in your area for quality work. It’s easy enough to find a fully licensed and insured firm to take charge of the clean-up work. Just call SERVPRO of Rapid City.

While the first day or so after a catastrophic flood may seem like Armageddon, make sure you take the necessary steps to prevent further damage. We can help you identify what needs to be done. Also ask about time requirements. Most policies stipulate that preventive measures and restoration work be done within a certain time frame.

Questions? Call 605-388-3000. Fortunately for you, SERVPRO of Rapid City deals with these issues every day.

Mold Myth Busters

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let mold hinder you & your families health! Call us today at 605-388-3000!

When it comes to mold, misinformation is all too common and it can be costly to homeowners' health and property. That's why the experts at, SERVPRO, one of the largest disaster restoration companies in the United States, say it's essential that homeowners know the facts about mold.

As temperatures begin to rise across the country, SERVPRO of Rapid City is alerting consumers about the most common myths that its network of trained professionals encounters when facing water or mold damage.

Home and business owners rarely think about mold and/or microbial growth until it affects their health, homes, or businesses.  Mold spores are all around us, everywhere, and found in most every home across the world.  In the right conditions and without the right treatment, mold can quickly grow into a major problem.

The three most commonly reported mold myths are:

1. False: Bleach or other retail products can kill mold on any surface.
   Fact:Most retail products simply discolor mold and are not recommended for use on porous surfaces. In porous and semi- porous materials, such as wood, carpet, ceiling tile or drywall, mold's roots may not come into contact with the cleaning product, meaning it will likely return. This is one reason why experts say removing the mold-affected items is the only way to ensure it is removed from your home.
2. False: Dead mold can't cause health issues.
   Fact: Mold goes dormant until the conditions are favorable for regrowth. Even dormant mold can release spores, allowing it to reproduce and reappear, particularly if the underlying moisture and ventilation issues have not been resolved. Trained professionals can help you identify potentially dangerous mold and ensure affected areas are properly treated.
3. False: Mold is the only problem associated with water damage.
   Fact:When water is present where it should not be, it can quickly cause a host of problems, including structural and cosmetic damage, as well as promote bacterial and viral growth. In addition, mold can begin to appear within 24-48 hours, depending on the nature of the water intrusion. Calling a reputable disaster restoration professional who is skilled in dealing with water- related damages can help you avoid long-term problems and get life back in order again as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Rapid City is trained, equipped and ready to restore homes and businesses before, during and after any mold-related issues. For more expert tips and information about mold prevention and remediation, visit SERVPROrapidcity.com. For immediate assistance and clean up, call SERVPRO of Rapid City at 605-388-3000.

SERVPRO of Rapid City Smoke and Soot Cleanup

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action. 

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Rapid City will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises, therefore, smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 605-388-3000

Common Misconceptions about Mitigation and Restoration

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Over the years, there has been an abundance of misconceptions and non-truths involving property damage and restoration procedures. Professional restoration companies are trained to see beyond the misconceptions and misinformation that often complicate a claim. If someone doesn’t act quickly enough or doesn’t take the right actions due to these misconceptions, they can end up with even more damage to deal with, that could have easily been avoided.

A SERVPRO of Rapid City professional restoration technician will prioritize mitigation over restoration ensuring damage costs do not escalate. Mitigation is extremely time-critical, as it stops further damage and reduces additional loss. It usually needs to be performed within 24 hours or less. Any delay will further complicate or devalue the mitigation effort.

Restoration, on the other hand, puts the damaged items back to a preloss condition. It is less time-critical, but still important and should be done as quickly as possible.

Misconception #1: Replacing is less expensive than salvaging.

Cleaning is a mitigation process that has excellent results and is cost-effective - especially when compared to the cost of replacement. For instance, when smoke is not properly cleaned from delicate fabrics and surfaces, secondary damage can occur. Replacement is usually the only option. Hundreds of dollars of cleaning can become thousands of dollars of replacement due to delayed action. Today’s restoration professionals are able to effectively clean and remove contaminates, saving expensive replacement costs.

Misconception #2: If you get your carpets cleaned, they get dirty faster.

Techniques, equipment, and materials used in the past to clean carpets were inferior to those used by today’s professionals. In the past, inefficient carpet shampooing left a soap residue that attracted soil more rapidly than prior to cleaning. Restoration professionals now use a cleaning process that both flushes and rinses carpets, and prevents that from happening.

Misconception #3: Once the carpet is dry, that noisy equipment needs to be removed.

The greatest failure in restoring water-damaged structures is to remove the drying equipment before the drying is complete. Using the carpet or padding to determine dryness is a poor misrepresentation of whether the structure is dry or not (and one that is not easily defended if litigation follows). Carpet and padding dry quicker than other structural materials and are not an accurate gauge. The danger with ineffective drying is that it can turn a small loss from water damage into a multi-thousand dollar mold claim. SERVPRO of Rapid City professionals use measuring equipment to determine if moisture content has been returned to normal standards. Meters and sensors are used to document and record the data that justifies the use of the equipment and the best time to remove it. That is extremely important to accomplish the end result - a totally dry structure.

Misconception #4: Once a structure has been damaged by fire, it will always smell like smoke. So why rush to clean it up?

Stories arise about smoke damage restoration efforts that have failed - usually because odor remains. Smoke odor and residue are the products of incomplete combustion. They are acidic and are far more damaging than ordinary dirt or dust. Prompt cleaning actions can reduce losses if this acid is removed or neutralized. Odor removal is more complicated than turning on one machine and hoping to achieve satisfactory results. Restoration for smoke odor has to be thorough. All contaminated areas need to be cleaned, deodorized, and sealed where applicable. It is important that all odor molecules are neutralized, either airborne or absorbed.

SERVPRO of Rapid City professionals are the best assurance when it comes to mitigation and restoration. Due to their continuous technical training, they do not repeat the erroneous theories and mistakes of the past. Using the latest equipment and techniques, they make sure that the job is done correctly and completely - the first time.  SERVPRO of Rapid City restoration services are available 24/7, 365 days per year; they include water and flood damage cleanup, mold remediation, odor control, reconstruction services, trauma cleanup, and fire and smoke damage cleanup.  Don’t wait another moment if your home has been devastated; call us today at 605-388-3000.

Rapid City 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rapid City is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We answer the phone ready to help - Call today at 605-388-3000!

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Rapid City has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Rapid City

SERVPRO of Rapid City specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Rapid City Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

8/16/2017 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by a recent storm.

Water damage in a basement can cost home owners thousands of dollars to fix. When water gets into a structure and it is dried incorrectly, rot,  mold and mildew can form making the occupants extremely ill. Trained and certified to the highest standards in the industry, our professional production team responds immediately - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - to mitigate loss and meet every challenge with professionalism, reliability, compassion and respect. Our technicians identify the full extent of moisture damage, both obvious and unseen, by using sensors such as moisture detectors and state of the science technology.  Meanwhile, we help homeowners overcome their feeling of helplessness by explaining the process in a way that they can understand what is happening, what to expect, and what they can do. SERVPRO of Rapid City’s commitment to customer excellence includes insurance professionals; which means that insurance agents and claims adjusters can expect effective, ongoing communication and reporting. We understand insurance industry requirements. Our professional production team will provide a complete estimate, including photos, to the agent or adjuster within 24-48 hours. Call SERVPRO of Rapid City and get quality water damage restoration services, fire and smoke damage restoration, mold and mildew removal and if your home, business or insurance customer needs one of our large selection of biohazard removal services, we are ready, trained and equipped to provide you with any clean up, mitigation and restoration service.  Call us today at 605-388-3000!