Recent Commercial Posts

Common Causes of Water Damage During Construction

2/19/2023 (Permalink)

As a new business owner, the last thing you want is water damage during the construction of your business. However, it can happen if the proper procedures are not followed.  Common causes of water damage during construction include:

  • Improper installation of waterproofing and moisture barrier systems on the exterior skin of a building
  • Poorly glued connections on plastic pipes or improperly sweated copper pipe connections
  • Water accumulations from rain and groundwater are migrating into the building
  • All door and window openings not being covered at the end of each work shift and prior to inclement weather
  • Water lines and mechanical equipment aren’t protected from freezing
  • Sprinkler or plumbing lines that are pressure tested with water aren’t drained immediately following the test
  • Standpipe valves aren’t closed
  • Roof drains being blocked with leaves or debris
  • Sink drains are clogged
  • Storage areas aren’t dry and well ventilated
  • Materials aren’t raised off the floor by pallets for storage controls

Many leak detection systems are available to help prevent water damage by generating an alarm and automatically shutting off the water supply. 

Have Questions? Call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County (262) 542-0900

Well Pump Causes Water Damage To Local Rental Property

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Even a Well Pump Can Cause Water Damage

A well pump that failed led to significant water damage at this property on Okauchee Lake.  This picture shows the new well pump that was installed by a licensed plumber because the former one developed a crack and slowly leaked water into the kitchen.  This kitchen was recently remodeled and the cabinets were installed on top the new vinyl tile.  Because the water migrated under the vinyl tile and there was no way to dry the floor through the vinyl, the sink had to be removed, granite countertops removed, cabinets detached and flooring removed so that the subfloor could be dried.

SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc was called in to clean the disaster and coordinate the demo and dry out the structure.  The property owner was happy with SERVPRO because we were able to begin the same day and his tenant would be inconvenienced for as short a time as possible.

Please call SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc or SERVPRO of SW Waukesha Count for all your water damage needs, both commercial and residential.  920-674-3002 or 262-542-0900.

SERVPRO Provides "Deep" Cleaning Commercial Services

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Floor Cleaning Services

SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County and SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc is called to perform all types of cleaning services, in addition to fire and water damage clean up and restoration.  In this case, a local restaurant owner called on SERVPRO to do a "deep" cleaning of the hardwood floors.

The normal wear and tear of this of this hardwood floor was beyond cleaning with traditional methods.  As a result, it was recommended that the floors be sanded and refinished, which would make these floors look shiny and new.  In this case the restaurant owner elected for our standard floor cleaning services but she will be using us in the spring when she will be ready for a complete sanding and refinishing of the entire restaurant.  SERVPRO works with numerous subcontractors in many different industries to accomplish the task at hand.

Please call SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc or SERVPRO of SW Waukesha Count for all your cleaning nees,  both commercial and residential.  We offer more services beyond fire and water cleanup and restoration.  920-674-3002 or 262-542-0900.

SERVPRO is Here for All Your Commercial Cleaning Needs

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc and Southwest Waukesha County offers commercial cleaning services for virtually every commercial business. 

 
  • Carpet Cleaning - One of the best ways to welcome new customers or clients into your commercial building is to clean the carpets regularly. 
  • Ceiling and Wall Cleaning - Ceiling and walls are regularly exposed to dirt, dust, and restaurant cooking oils and grease, as well as other contaminants.  Cleaning should be part of the cleaning maintenance of your business. It would help to clean the walls before painting so that the primer and paint can adhere properly. 
  • Vandalism and Graffiti Cleaning - Vandalism and graffiti can be very upsetting. Often simple acts of vandalism, like breaking a window, can cause significant water and mold damage if not addressed promptly. In addition to removing spray-painted graffiti from exterior walls, we can also clean driveways, walkways, asphalt, metals, wood, glass, plastic, and masonry.
  • Odor Removal - Your basic cleaning service will not have the expertise to deodorize your property effectively. Take advantage of SERVPRO’s cleaning services to remove unwanted odors using professional-grade clean-up products and equipment.
  • Sewage and Biohazard Clean Up - Our experts are ready to assist in the clean-up of sewage and other biohazard materials and provide deep cleaning services for your business.
  • COVID Disinfections - Unfortunately, these types of cleanings have picked back up for us recently. If your commercial building has any bacteria or disease outbreak, we can disinfect. We offer two types of cleanings: preventive and confirmed cases. 
    • Certified: SERVPRO Clean, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning utilizing EPA-approved products. 

If your commercial building requires any of our cleaning services, please reach out to us, and we will be happy to provide a free estimate!   

?If you have questions about our commercial cleaning services, please reach out to us at 920-674-3002 or 262-542-0900.

Warehouse Maddness

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

In Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, a local warehouse recently reached out to our SW Waukesha County franchise to assist them with a post-construction cleaning. This consisted of three levels of approximately 30,000 square feet of steel flooring, cage fencing, steel framing, and custom racks that all required hand dusting. This was a large job that with the planning and coordinating with a production manager and a cleaning crew chief, and our franchise owner, the job was successfully completed. Due to the large number of surfaces that needed to be cleaned, SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County buckled up and completed the job in only three days. You may ask yourself, "how were they able to complete this extensive job in only three days?". Our dedicated staff, which included the production members and our office staff, worked long and hard for 12 hours a day. By completing this job, the customer was ecstatic with the determination of SERVPRO's employees and the attention to detail shown to produce a clean work area for the warehouse.

For all your commercial cleaning or emergency needs, call on SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County (262) 542-0900 or SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc (920) 674-3002 and speak with professionals who can help you.

Broken Pipe Causes Flood At Local Hotel

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage In Carpet

A prominent hotel in Brookfield, Wisconsin had a pin-hole leak in an overhead that caused a flood in their banquet facility.  The before picture shows how much water accumulated in the coat room after the water was turned off.

SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County was called to clean up the aftermath.  The maintenance director was very pleased with our prompt service and attention to detail.  This maintenance director has worked in various hotels in Wisconsin over 30 years and has seen many disasters.  He called on SERVPRO because he has used us before and knew the type of quick and professional service he would get. 

For all your commercial water damage needs, please call the certified water restoration technicians at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900

Local Government Calls on SERVPRO To Clean Building

10/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Cleans Air Ducts of Government Building and Removes This Dirt and Debris

A local government-employed Facilities Director called on SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County to clean and deodorize a government-owned building in Jefferson, Wisconsin.  This community-based residential facility is currently going through a remodeling project and it was determined that the HVAC ductwork had not been cleaned for a very long time.  They asked SERVPRO to add this service to the work we already had provided.

This after photo shows the dirt and debris that was captured in the filter during the cleaning of the ductwork.  This filter was white as snow before work began.  This is a perfect example of why it is important to get your ductwork cleaned often because this is dirt that the occupants of buildings are breathing in every day.   

For all your commercial and residential duct cleaning needs, please call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900.

How to Stay Safe (and Have Fun) this Spooky Season

10/14/2021 (Permalink)

Happy Halloween from SERVPRO!! 

Halloween means lots of fun in the community: Trick or Treating, pumpkin picking, fall festivals and haunted houses. With all these fun events, however, it is still important to be safe. These are great tips to stay safe this Halloween:

  • Keep and eye on open flames- whether its in a Jack-O-Lantern or just a spooky candle, and unattended flame can cause a serious fire if left unattended.
  • Dress warmly- as the weather cools off make sure you and your family are dressed warmly to avoid catching a cold. 
  • Keep an eye on young children when Trick or Treating.

Pipe Wrap In Your Structure Might Contain Asbestos

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Asbestos Pipe Wrap

A fire in this rental property caused this structure to get dirty from soot or wet from the fire being put out.  This photo shows pipe wrap that was discovered in the basement that has to be removed because it had gotten wet.

This job actually was called in to a neighboring SERVPRO.  However, because that franchise is not certified in the State of Wisconsin to do asbestos sampling or asbestos abatement, they called SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County to handle that part of the job.

The owner of the property along with the Production Manager of the other SERVPRO was very happy on how quickly we arrived onsite to take samples and develop an action plan.  This step can hold up the project because most materials can not be demolished or removed until the asbestos sample results come back and if positive, the material removed by a certified abatement company.  SERVPRO of SW Waukesha is a Wisconsin certified asbestos abatement company.  

If your basement pipes look like this and have this type of wrap, it is very possible that it contains asbestos.  If you would like your pipe wrap or other items tested, please call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County and speak with one of our certified asbestos inspectors or certified asbestos supervisors.  262-542-0900

Popular Restaurant Has Kitchen Fire

1/29/2021 (Permalink)

Resulting Damage To Restaurant Kitchen

A kitchen fire in a popular Waukesha restaurant caused this damage.  This before photo shows the mess and debris left behind after the fire was extinguished.

SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County was called by the owner to clean up.  The owner is a previous customer who was happy with our services then and this gave him confidence in calling us on this job.  He even turned away two competitors because he wanted SERVPRO!

The odor and soot was so severe that it caused the business to be temporarily closed so that the certified fire and smoke restoration technicians could get in there and clean and deodorize the entire structure, including important kitchen tools needed for food prep.  This job also included HVAC ductwork cleaning and deodorization, which is another service that we offer.

For all your fire and smoke and water damage needs, call on the certified trained professionals at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County.  262-542-0900

Proper PPE Is Important When Disinfecting for COVID-19

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technician Is Fully Protected Using PPE

Since the pandemic started, SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County has been called to help many residential and commercial customers where people were exposed or confirmed to have COVID-19.  In order to help prevent the spread of the virus, SERVPRO is asked to properly clean and disinfect high touch point areas and to fog the structure with a EPA approved hospital-grade disinfectant.

While providing this service, it is critical that we at SERVPRO protect our technicians as best we can to prevent them from contracting the disease.  This photo shows a SERVPRO technician wet cleaning high touch point areas in this office setting.  To protect this employee, he is wearing a full-body protective suit.  You can also see that he has his head covered and face protected with a full-face mask and respirator.  Both his hands and shoes are also covered.  This PPE is vital in protecting our staff so that we are available to other customers who need our services.

For all your biohazard cleaning and disinfecting needs, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County.  262-542-0900.  When we are done cleaning and disinfecting, it will be "Certified SERVPRO Cleaned"

SERVPRO Asked to Disinfect Due to COVID-19

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technician Spraying Chemical To Disinfect Due to COVID-19

There are many types of services that SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County perform.  Some examples include fire and water damage cleanup and restoration, reconstruction, carpet cleaning, air ducts and HVAC cleaning and deodorization.  SERVPRO is often called upon to disinfect after biohazard contamination, which also applies to COVID-19 disinfecting.

Throughout 2020 and continuing into 2021, SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County has been called on numerous commercial and residential properties to clean and disinfect after suspected and confirmed COVID-19 exposures.  In this photo, a SERVPRO technician is fogging an EPA approved hospital-grade disinfectant into the air to neutralize any potential coronavirus airborne droplets.  This rental property can send in their new tenants knowing that the property is Certified SERVPRO Cleaned.

If you are in need of any COVID-19 disinfecting needs, or any other services listed above, call on the certified professionals at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County.  262-542-0900   

SERVPRO Helps Hotel After Broken Pipe Floods Multiple Levels

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's Drying Equipment Used to Dry After Hotel Flood

An Oconomowoc hotel was recently going through some renovations when new plumbing that was being installed broke during the middle of the night.  This caused significant water damage to three levels, including guest rooms, banquet facilities and mechanical rooms.  After water was extracted and drywall was removed, the task of drying out the structure could begin.  This photo shows the drying equipment that was placed in the hallway to dry the carpet and the ceiling.  

The certified water restoration technicians at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County arrived within one hour to begin assessing the damage.  After 4 days of drying the project was completed and the renovation work could continue.  

For all your water damage mitigation needs, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900.  

During Pandemic SERVPRO Is Called To Disinfect

10/14/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Employee Disinfecting After a COVID-19 Exposure

The year of 2020 has been very challenging for most people.  Business owners and employees have been impacted in numerous ways as well.  With the COVID-19 pandemic, SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County is being called upon to clean and disinfect after an exposure.  Even though businesses are taking extra and special pre-caution, this virus is still finding ways of getting in to both commercial and residential settings.

This photo shows a SERVPRO employee wearing personal protective equipment while wiping down with a hospital-grade disinfectant an office that recently had 2 confirmed employee cases of COVID-19.  Not only are the horizontal and vertical surfaces cleaned and disinfected, a disinfectant is sprayed into the air to knock down any virus that might be in the air.

If you are concerned about a possible exposure to COVID-19 and would like your place of employment or home disinfected, call on the professionals who have been cleaning and disinfecting since the 1960s.  Call on SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900 and speak with a member of the management team who can assist you in making your structure Certified: SERVPRO Clean.

Space Heater In Rental Property Causes Severe Fire Damage

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Space Heater Fire Damage Affects Two Floors

A space heater used by a tenant renting a room in a basement caused this damage to the home in Waukesha, WI.  This before photo, taken from the main level of the home, shows the mess and damage and how the fire burned away the flooring and you can see all the debris that fell into the basement.  

SW Waukesha County was called in to clean up the debris and to deodorize and get this home prepped for rebuild.  The challenge with this loss was the owner of the property had recently passed away so before the assets could be transition to the benefactor, the Trust of the estate had to make the temporary decisions.  Not only has SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County worked with insurance agents, insurance adjusters and property owners, but we also have experience working with attorney's that are involved when a family Trust exists.  

At SERVPRO, if you have a unique situation and you are not sure where to turn for help, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County as we have the abilities to work with all different types of customers and people with a vested interest in a property. SERVPRO of 262-542-0900

Waukesha School Has Flood In Preparation For The Start of School

9/4/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Responds To Emergency Water Damage In Local School

A local private school in the Waukesha, Wisconsin area recently had work done to prepare the classrooms for the new school year.  Little did the contractor know when he drilled into the wall that a water supply line was right behind it, causing the mess seen in this photo.  This emergency event happened on a Saturday night as the contractor was done to the last weekend to get all the work completed.

The water intrusion started in the band room and migrated down into the kitchen area where lunch is served.  SERVPRO of SW Waukesa County was called to clean up the aftermath.  The Director of Facilities called SERVPRO at 6:35 p.m. and SERVPRO was onsite by 7:20 p.m.  The Director was very happy with our quick response and the owner of the construction company was impressed with the equipment that was used to remove the excess water.

For all your emergency water damage needs, commercial and residential, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County at 262-542-0900.

SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County Disinfects Railroad Repair Equipment

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Railroad Repair Equipment Cleaned and Disinfected by SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County, Due to COVID-19

This coronavirus pandemic has created problems and concerns for everyone across the globe.  In our opionion, all legal businesses are essential, but one of the most important ones is the transportation industry.  We give thanks to those professional who move our supplies and good across the country either by water, rail or truck.

In this case, in order to keep our supplies moving over the rails, the railway professionals need to repair the sections of track wherever needed.  In order for that to occur, the railway company recongized that keeping their equipment clean and disinfected will increase the chances of their employees staying healthy and safe, ulimately allowing the rails to get repaired faster so you and I can get our supplies when needed.

In this photo, you will see some of the railway repair equipment that is used to repair the rails that are damaged or need upgrading.  SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County was asked to clean and disinfect, on a daily basis, to keep this equipment safe and usable for their employees in order to keep the supply chain moving.  

For all your COVID-19 cleaning and disinfecting needs, both commercial and residential, call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County to help you be safe.  262-542-0900.  

Helping a Retirement Community in Watertown, WI

4/30/2020 (Permalink)

Post mitigation of a kitchen affected by a water loss.

A retirement community in Watertown, Wisconsin experienced a pipe leak in a second floor apartment and the water leaked down into a first floor apartment. From the customer's past experience with SERVPRO, the maintenance manager knew SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha would provide them the service they needed in order to get their residents back to normal quickly.

SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha is a preferred service provider for many large commercial facilities in our area. We strive to help our commercial clients efficiently and thoroughly to keep business interruption to a minimum. This is all the more important when your tenants homes are affected. Your tenants want to have their home back to normal as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha has emergency crews on call 24/7/365 to enable us to help you whenever disaster strikes. Give us a call at 262-542-0900 to make sure your tenants are taken care of quickly by certified technicians that take pride in their work.

Air Scrubbers Available for Rent

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

Air scrubbers are used to improve air quality.

COVID-19 is a respiratory virus which spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose. To protect yourself, clean your hands frequently with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.

In any commercial business setting where the work being performed is an essential service, you want to ensure that the air quality within your facility is as safe as possible. The use of an air scrubber/negative air machine will help. An air scrubber is used for cleaning and controlling air quality and creating negative pressure in a work area.

How It Works: Potentially contaminated air enters the unit and passes through three-stage filtration capturing respiratory droplets (aerosols), viral particles, smoke, fumes, mold spores, dust and other types of particulates. Clean air is returned to the environment. When larger areas are to be cleaned, multiple units can be strategically placed for optimum cleaning. A 12" exhaust flange allows an operator to exhaust to a remote area or create controlled negative pressure in a contained area.

Specifications:

Power: 115 v, 60 Hz

Amps: 6.5 low speed/10.2 high speed

CFM: 1250 low speed/1650 high speed w/ filters

Cord: 25’, 14/3 gauge, safety yellow

Dimensions: 38” x 27” x 32½ ”

Weight: 120 lbs.

ETL listed for US and Canada.

Features:

3-stage filtration with 99.97% 0.3 micron HEPA filter.

Dent & corrosion proof durable polyethylene cabinet.

Two speed blower.

Built in 12” exhaust duct flange.

Filter monitor gauge.

Hour meter.

Heavy duty locking caster wheels.

Lifting handles.

If you are interested in improving the quality of air at your place of business and renting any of these units, please contact us at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha. 262-542-0900.

SERVPRO of SW Waukesha is here for all your decontamination needs, both commercial and residential. We are also here for all your water damage, fire damage, mold remediation and asbestos abatement needs.

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SERVPRO Disinfecting a Medical Facility

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians disinfecting medical facility after suspected COVID-19 exposure.

A local Oconomowoc, WI business recently had a concern that an elderly customer came into their clinic that may have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus. Because this clinic is considered an essential business as they serve the elderly population, they needed to ensure that their work environment was properly cleaned and disinfected quickly so that they could re-open their doors and service other customers.

SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County was called in to help. The clinic manager knew that SERVPRO was a reputable organization and knows how to properly disinfect a structure with the proper chemical disinfectants. The SERVPRO technicians followed proper safety protocol utilizing personal protective equipment to protect themselves and the customer's business.

This photo shows two technicians preparing to use an ULV fogger with a hospital-grade disinfectant. Fogging is used to reach small openings or crevices where traditional wet cleaning methods may not access.

If you have a concern about a bio or virus exposure and you are considering a professional company to clean and disinfect your home or business properly, call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County at 262-542-0900. We are Here to Help!

Commercial and Industrial Cleaning

12/26/2019 (Permalink)

Industry cleaning you can count on. #SERVPROsouthwestwaukeshacounty

If you’re a landlord for any commercial or industrial space, we can help you get it squeaky clean in between tenants. This industrial building in SE Wisconsin had just recently had tenants move out.  However, before the new tenant moved in, the landlord wanted the area to be thoroughly inspected. We were called to provide these services.

The landlord received a recommendation from a friend that previously used us and was very happy with our services. After an appointment was scheduled and the walk-thru completed, our Production Manager put together an action plan and estimate. Soon there after we scheduled the work to begin. This project took 2 days to complete and the customer was extremely happy with the end result. We take the time and make sure that each job is very thorough.

In this photo you can see two Cleaning Technicians with SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha hard at work on a scissor lift HEPA vacuuming the ceiling rafters.  Note that the employees are wearing respirators to protect them from breathing in dirt and dust. It is believed that it was accumulating over the past 40 years. This is not completely uncommon. Our recommendation is to always wear the proper safety equipment when cleaning. Having a plan of action, and taking step by step measures to ensure quality from start to finish is the way we here at SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha do business.

For all your commercial and industrial cleaning needs, call SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc (920) 674-3002 

Hydroxyl VS Ozone

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha (262)-542-0900 for all your deodorization needs.

Odor removal is an essential compenent of almost every restoration job. There are a variety of options available from masking agents to foggers to ozone and hydroxyl generators, and so on. In our industry, we have noticed a rather large debate being waged over the benefits and dangers of these two options. There is a clear advantage to using machines to eliminate odors from spaces and items rather than simplyjust  trying to mask them.  SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha technicians are highly trained to recommend the best method for your odor neutralization.  

It is VERY IMPORTANT to know that both ozone and hydroxyl will remove odors – hydroxyl will just take longer.

Differences Between Hydroxyl and Ozone

  1. Hydroxyl is not harmful to plants and fish.
  2. Hydroxyl does not leave behind a chemical smell.
  3. Hydroxyl works on a larger variety of odors.
  4. Hydroxyl can be used in wet areas to help deodorize. Ozone machine used in wet areas can bleach a material.
  5. Hydroxyl machines will typically take longer to deodorize.
  6. Ozone can possibly damage rubber or leather goods.
  7. Ozone is to be used in unoccupied areas with return to the area at least one hour after the machine has turned off.
  8. Ozone is much stronger and faster and must be closely monitored.  

Both options are very effective and have their time and place on when to be used.  Depending on the type of odor and the amount of time allotted will dictate what option you should choose.  Be sure to only use experienced technicians when using equipment such as these.  Supervision of both methods is necessary to affectively remove the odor. 

Call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha (262)-542-0900 for all your deodorization needs.  

Reasons to Call SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO - For All Your Commercial Fire & Water Damage

From a burst pipe in an office building to faulty wiring in an apartment complex, fire and water lossess are never planned, but they do occur.  SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County professionals know that there is no such thing as a small emergency when it threatens the welfare of the tenants and the revenue of the property owner or the business.  SERVPRO professionals can provide you assistance with all your emergency needs.

  1. 24 Hour Emergency Response: SERVPRO will work to meet and hopefully exceed your expectations.
  2. Communication: SERVPRO will keep you informed on the status of your project.
  3. Reduce Recovery Time: SERVPRO will help minimize business interruption.
  4. Lower Recovery Cost: SERVPRO will help you save money.
  5. Emergency Ready Profile: SERVPRO will help you plan for recovery before disaster strikes.  
  6. Full Line of Service: SERVPRO will help to solve your cleanup needs.
  7. A Leader in Storm Response: SERVPRO will help when you need it the most.
  8. Over 50 years of business in the cleanup and restoration industry.
  9. More than 1,700 locations that we can call in to help on those large projects.
  10. Experience and training in mitgation damages ranging from single family home to skyscrapers.

For all your fire damage, water damage, mold mitigation, asbestos abatement, deodorization and other general cleaning services, call the professionals at SERVPRO of SW Waukesha County 262-542-0900

John Deere Manufacturing Calls On SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County After Water Damage

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Damaged Conference Room Ceiling Caused By This Suspended Water Pipe That Burst #SERVPROsouthwestwaukeshacounty #waterdamage

John Deere, a large national agricultural manufacturing company had a pipe burst just below the acoustic tiled ceiling in a conference room. The water leaked across 5000 + sqft of the building.  The water affected the carpet and drywall in the main office area, one large office space with over 30 cubicles, the hallways, multiple bathrooms, and even an elevator shaft. The manufacturer decided to call in SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County to help them get their space back into order.

Our team of SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County leaders met with plant managers, operations managers, and office managers to formulate a action plan. We had to coordinate with their in-house electricians and plumbers to coordinate work to get done so the SERVPRO crew could come in and extract and dry the structure.  Documentation was completed in order to share with the insurance company.  When all the details and preliminary work was completed, SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County got to work to mitigate the water damage. Weighted extraction was performed on the carpeted areas, rubber cove was removed from areas with wet drywall and production technicians drilled coring holes in the drywall below the top of the rubber cove for air flow purposes in order to quickly and efficiently dry the structure.

After the water and wet materials were removed,  SERVPRO started to set a very large number of drying equipment pieces to dry out a structure of this size.  The drying equipment included using air movers, axial (top down) drying fans and large self-purging commercial grade dehumidifiers. While or production staff was performing their tasks the SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County Production Manager and the SERVPRO Mitigation Manager continued documentation and organization of sub-contractors needed for supplemental power, plumbers for plumbing repairs, and the clearing and inspections of the elevator shaft.

This entire structure was dried and restored within 5 days.  The SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County team was there to make it "Like it never even happened."

For all your commercial property damage call the trained professionals at SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County at 262-542-0900.  

Cats, Cats, Cats

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

Cat hoarding is a very complex mental health issue that effects animal welfare, and is a serious public safety concern.

One night watching the local late-night news, a story came on about a woman who was evicted from her apartment for housing 27 cats.  The next morning, SERVPRO received the call from the property owner to help clean up and deodorize after this tenant. 

Our customer was the owner of this building and this building was his childhood home. Due to its condition, the building itself was condemned by the City of Milwaukee.  However, the City agreed to let him try and salvage the structure because he did not want to lose this home.  That is where SERVPRO came in.  The home owner wanted SERVPRO to remove all debris and try to disinfect and deodorize everything. 

Cat urine is one of the most difficult odors to remove.  This property smelled so bad that you could smell it from the middle of street in front of the home.  Not only did this lady love her 27 cats, but she also was a hoarder. 

We went through five 40-yard dumpsters of debris; all coming from a home approximately 800 square feet.  That is a lot of debris.  There is one thing that was forgotten to be mentioned to SERVPRO; it was 27 LIVING cats that were removed from the home by the local Human Society.  No one mentioned the dead cats that were discovered in the home.  So, we had to remove those as well.

While removing the debris from the basement, it was discovered that there was a previous sewer back-up in the home that no one had any idea how long it has been there.  So now, we also had to do a sewage cleaning and disinfecting on this property as well. You would not believe the scent from this place. 

After our attempt, we finally came to the conclusion that this home was beyond deodorization and repair.  The cat smell was so bad that it got into the hardwood floors, in the wood framing and many other structural areas.  SERVPRO, along with other related sub-contractors, tried to salvage the property but it just could not be done. 

Within a few weeks after we left, the building was demolished.  Unfortunately, this is not a happy ending.  However, the moral of the story is that if you have rental property, it is wise to keep a close eye on your investment to make sure that the tenants treat your property with respect.   

Asbestos Abatement: Government facilities.

10/2/2019 (Permalink)

Ask us about our Asbestos Awareness Class

The United States Government uses SERVPRO from time to time. Primarily when they need to get rid of asbestos. Asbestos is very common in many of their buildings because of the year they were built. Asbestos may be present in textured paint and in patching compounds used on wall and ceiling joints. Their use was not banned until 1977.

It can be found in thermal system insulation, climate insulation, plaster wall & ceiling systems, electrical systems, and tiles, wallboard, siding, roofing shingles, roofing felt, base flashing, cement wallboard, cement siding, ceiling tiles and lay-in panels, asphalt floor tile, vinyl sheet flooring, flooring backing, and vinyl wall coverings. 

In order to remove or securely bind asbestos fibers during restoration or renovation, a Certified Asbestos Abatement Company is needed to perform the project.  The process of asbestos abatement in a government facility can be very time consuming.  After a bid is accepted by the Government, a lengthy process of project planning follows. The Department of Natural Resources must be notified of almost all commercial abatement projects, and a permit is required for any work needing to be done.  Depending on the location of the building, there may also be a permit required with the City.

In many cases, the crew that will perform the work needs to pass a background check in order to receive clearance to be in the building.  In the state of Wisconsin, there is a 10 working day wait period before any regulated asbestos work can be started.

Once the abatement process has started, there are many regulations that must be followed throughout the project.  Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that can cause multiple different diseases in the lungs and the lining around internal organs if it is disturbed. It must be handled with extreme care. Therefore, all projects must be done very precisely. 

All state certified Asbestos Supervisors and Workers are required to wear safety gear.  A decontamination chamber is also set up for all workers to move through in order to ensure asbestos fibers do not leave the regulated area. There are air samples taken before and after. 

When the project is completed, air quality samples are taken to ensure cleanliness. The waste also needs to be properly disposed of, with many steps that need to be followed with accuracy. All asbestos containing waste must be taken to a certified landfill and buried.

Contact Us at 262-542-0900 if you have any questions, comments, or concerns about Asbestos Abatement.   

Wild Deer

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Deer makes a surprise visit.

On a Friday morning around 8:20 a.m., we received a call from a local day care center stating that they had a wild deer jump through their big picture window around 8:10 a.m.  The owner Todd, knowing this had to be taken care of immediately, arrived approximately 8:45 a.m. to scope the job and immediately discovered a whole lot of blood, almost in every room!  The manager of the center stated that when the deer jumped through the window, the glass cut the deer in many places.  As the staff tried to round up the deer, parents were trying to drop off their children for the day. People were then walking in the blood and transferring the blood on their shoes into other non-affected areas. It was a very traumatic scene!

After the local police arrived and managed to get the deer out of the building, all that was left was a big biohazard mess.  To make this job even more difficult, the manager told me that the center had to be ready to be opened by 7 a.m. the following Monday.  Wow, challenge accepted!

 We had to remove all contaminated carpet, clean and disinfect the walls and floors, clean and disinfect EVERY toy (yes, every Lego and every wood block) and all other contents.  Not to mention, we also had to install the new carpet over the weekend. 

We worked long hours with multiple shifts, but we had that entire job completed by 3:30 p.m. on Sunday afternoon.  The customer was extremely happy because she was able to open as planned on Monday morning.  She never thought that we could do it. 

Living in Wisconsin we are used to seeing wild deer. Let it be know that deer belong in the wild, not inside of our offices or homes.  

Demolition Food for Thought

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

Asbestos is highly regulated by the Government

Some customers approach us with cleaning and restoration requests because their property is so severely damaged that it is beyond repair but they need us to prepare the building for demolition. 

There are many things that must get done before the wrecking crew shows up.  It takes time and required steps in order to plan for a building to be knocked down. 

One of the first things that must occur before any demolition begins is to have a Site Hazardous Assessment completed.  This completed report must identify if there are any potential asbestos containing materials in that structure and their specific location. If there is any confirmed asbestos material, a plan must be developed in order to remove those materials. This work can only be done by a Wisconsin Certified Asbestos Abatement Company.

We had a customer who wanted to tear down an old section of his building in order to build a new, automated building for his manufacturing plant.  He was told by his local building inspector that a Site Hazardous Assessment had to be completed first.  This customer called on us to perform that service.  The Wisconsin State Certified Asbestos Inspector was sent to the property and approximately 70 samples were obtained. Of the 70, 12 test positive.

This customer knew that before the building could be torn down, that the asbestos had to be removed.  An estimate was provided to the property owner and that owner eventually signed with us. 

Asbestos Abatement is highly regulated by the Government.   Permits must be obtained and action plans provided.  This all takes time. 

In summary, knocking down a commercial building is no simple task.  There are many steps in between that must be taken before the wrecking ball shows up.  You must consider all these steps in determining whether you want that building knocked down. Most importantly, you must call on a Wisconsin Certified Asbestos Abatement Company to have it removed and disposed of properly.

  

Cleaning

2/1/2017 (Permalink)

65,000 square foot commercial building cleaning

Warehouse Cleaning in Waukesha County.

In January 2017, SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County did a cleaning job for a 65,000 square foot commercial building.  The building had build-up of dust on it's ceilings from the machinery that was used in the warehouse.  

SERVPRO's crew cleaned this building in 7 days. SERVPRO's crews used HEPA vacuums, scissor lifts and boom trucks to complete the job. SERVPRO's crews worked diligently to vacuum the ceiling, cross beams, lights and ceiling fans. In the photo you can see SERVPRO was able to finish the job even with having to work around the machinery. This company did not even have to shut down production, SERVPRO worked around the workers and the machines. 

This job appeared to be a huge under taking, but SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County was able to conquer the challenge.