Recent Commercial Posts

Tracking Moisture Levels and Water Cleanup in Reading Commercial Buildings

2/14/2023 (Permalink)

moisture device No matter the size and destruction to your building, SERVPRO handles all commercial damage restoration projects. Call now!

SERVPRO Utilizes Moisture Sensors and High Capacity Water Cleanup Equipment in Reading

Water leaks in Reading commercial buildings can cause a great deal of havoc to the business, employees, and customers. The company must shut down until water cleanup is completed, the area is dried, and moisture levels have returned to normal. Hidden water or high moisture pockets can lead to mold infestations if not removed.

That’s why SERVPRO utilizes moisture sensors during water cleanup in Reading commercial buildings to ensure no pockets of moisture remaining that could lead to further damage to the structure and/or mold infestations. Mold infestations can begin growing in 24 to 48 hours.

SERVPRO Water cleanup at commercial sites follows a proven step-by-step process to ensure the safety of our employees and clients and return to normal operations as quickly as possible.

  • Safety check and water damage assessment
  • Deployment of high-capacity extractors, including pumps, wet vacs with special wands for carpet and hardwood surfaces
  • Deployment of air movers to blow dry air into the affected area and dehumidifiers to lower the humidity and dry the space
  • Moisture sensors to detect moisture in soft materials and inside cavities
  • Moisture meters to confirm materials have returned to their normal moisture content levels

Fast action by SERVPRO teams removing water and moisture and reducing humidity to normal levels reduces the opportunity for secondary damage to porous materials. These materials can absorb moisture, swell and lose structural integrity. In many cases, they need to be replaced. Our fast response and action also reduce the opportunity for mold growth and cause further damage.

Avoid delays by calling the experts at SERVPRO. We can be on-site in less than four hours to deploy equipment and technicians to minimize downtime for your commercial business.


Call SERVPRO of Reading for water cleanup services. We provide service to Reading and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (610) 779-8189.

The Real Truth Behind Commercial Water Damage Restoration in Reading

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Electric Shock Sign Stay safe and contact SERVPRO for water damage remediation services. Our certified technicians will arrive quickly to assess and remediate.

Commercial Water Damage Reading – Lunch Room Catastrophe

Almost every small office has a lunchroom, provided by the company for the convenience of the employees. There is usually a fridge, sink, microwave, and sometimes a dishwasher. The problem with many lunchrooms is that no one wants to take responsibility for keeping it clean, turn on the dishwasher and generally look after it. This neglect is where the trouble with water leaks and damage usually begins.

SERVPRO provides commercial water damage services in Reading and the surrounding area for our commercial and residential customers. We respond to calls to our offices every day of the week at any hour of the day, usually within four hours. We understand that a water leak is urgent because of the potential damage water can cause, but also for the harm it can do to your company. The worst-case scenario is that all employees must take the day off, which means your customers will look elsewhere.

Water Spreads Across the Production Floor

It is bad enough to have the lunch room floor soaking in water, but once the water spreads into production areas, there is a potential safety hazard. Often there are electrical and data conduits under the floor connected to various pieces of equipment. Short circuits can damage the equipment and disrupt production. There is also a danger for the employees.

Electrical shocks are possible, and then there are potentially slippery conditions on concrete floors. You must stop all production and shut off circuit breakers to eliminate further damage. Your production facilities are at a standstill, you may send idle employees home, and nothing can resume until the water is removed, floors are dried, and each device is tested before returning it online.

SERVPRO can be on site in less than four hours to focus on containment of the water leak and then drying floors and conduits. Moisture meters can quickly determine which areas still are potential problems. We can concentrate specialized air movers on these areas to ensure everything is completely dry before reinitiating each machine. Our objective is to help your team bring your systems back into service as quickly as possible.

Call SERVPRO of Reading at (610) 779-8189 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Fleetwood, Hamburg, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration in Reading Requires Professional Help

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Carpet with Water Damage Call SERVPRO today if you need help with professional water damage restoration.

Hire SERVPRO for Commercial Water Damage Restoration in Reading

Are you aware of how to handle commercial water damage?

Fortunately, dealing with water damage on your property does not need to be scary. SERVPRO has the expertise required to perform commercial water damage restoration in Reading. We can significantly minimize property damage and get you back to business quickly. Our customer's well-being and safety are a priority. Therefore, we provide comprehensive solutions and outstanding services you can rely on, including the following:

  • Salvaging first: We can save all the original aspects of your commercial property. We only replace items at your request or as a last resort. 
  • 24/7 availability – We can attend to your call at any time. Our rapid response helps prevent severe damage. 
  • Carpet and pad cleaning or removal: If your carpeting sustained water damage, we might be able to restore it to its preloss state. SERVPRO can use cleaning procedures that do not ruin the carpet fibers. If it is impossible to restore the carpet and pad, we can remove them for disposal. 
  • Mold inspection and remediation: Mold can affect your property. It requires professional remediation. 
  • Limited deconstruction: We do not demolish walls, replace ceilings or remove the flooring that we can dry out. It takes effort and time to dry a property, but SERVPRO believes in saving you money and repairing your property effectively. 
  • Complete restoration: Our technicians can prevent lasting damage to your commercial property's drywall, ceilings, or other structures and contents. 

Proper water extraction and drying are essential. It can prevent long-term issues some property owners experience after attempting water damage repair or hiring individuals who lack the necessary expertise or equipment. Once we remove the water, our SERVPRO crew can position air movers to deliver fast airflow to damp surfaces. We also place dehumidifiers to provide dry, warm air to the affected areas. After completing the restoration process, our team cleans surfaces to prepare for a walkthrough with the customer. 

To deal with the effects of commercial water damage and reopen your business quickly, call SERVPRO of Reading at (610) 779-8189. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 

We Will Help You Get Back To Business In Reading After A Water Damage Disaster

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Equipment The equipment pictured here was placed in this commercial building to dry the excess moisture quickly so that further damage could be prevented.

Commercial Water Removal for Your Reading Business

A burst pipe or other water-related disaster in your Reading hat shop can be financially devastating for your small business. When you suffer from an incident like this, it ultimately means lost revenue since you might even have to close your shop for a time to make repairs. If the cleanup isn’t done promptly, it can lead to even costlier dangers such as structural damage and mold growth.

When your business in Reading experiences a water damage incident, you must act quickly to mitigate the damage. For best results, call in help from a professional remediation specialist to help you with the water removal and cleanup. SERVPRO has the experience and training to get the job done right and look like nothing ever happened.

One thing you should regularly do is check your gutters and downspouts. Debris and fallen leaves can create clogs and lead to water damage on the exterior and interior walls of your building. Removing this debris and having your gutters professionally cleaned ensures that water drains correctly and away from your structure.

Knowing where your shut-off valve is in case of an emergency is also essential. You can temporarily cut the water flow to your building if a pipe breaks to stop the flooding until the issue can be repaired.

Even if we must have you close up shop while we remediate the damage, SERVPRO staff works fast and efficiently to get you back up and running as soon as possible. To help us speed up the drying process, various equipment is used, including dehumidifiers. These devices pull water vapor from the air and lower the relative humidity. As the moisture is evaporated, the dehumidifier keeps removing it from the air until your building and contents are dry.

If needed, we can take your merchandise to a safe, dry location to protect it while we work and then return it when the job is complete. We can usually restore any items which were damaged as well while they are offsite.

SERVPRO of Reading wants to help you reopen the doors of your business in Birdsboro, Boyertown, or Exeter after a water damage emergency. Call us at (610) 779-8189 as soon as possible after the incident so we can help you avoid additional issues and get back to serving your customers.

Handling Commercial Fire and Smoke Damage in Reading

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

a building on fire with smoke billowing from its roof When a fire starts at your warehouse location, the situation can quickly escalate. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 to assess and remediate the damage.

SERVPRO Offers Assistance with Commercial Fire Restoration Projects in Reading

Fires starting inside your company's warehouse can prove to be quite devastating, even if your entire building does not get torched. Even small fires that do not burn many of your contents as fuels can still create several problems with your warehouse's products and structural components. The heat coming from a blaze can damage items and the smoke it produces can coat materials with soot residues.

Remediating commercial fire and smoke damage in Reading can often involve assessing your contents. If the blaze broke out inside your warehouse, it could have negatively affected nearly everything stored in there. Even if the items stored did not get entirely burnt and ruined, they could have been coated with soot residues. Smoke can often penetrate through cardboard, so anything stored in boxes could have got contaminated by residues or malodor particles.

Whenever we arrive at your business' warehouse after a fire strikes, the first step we take is to inspect your building and everything in it for damage. We can open all of your boxes in your warehouse during the initial inspection process and determine what got affected by the smoke. We can then perform wipe tests on the walls and ceilings of your warehouse to determine the severity of the soot and which chemicals/methods will work best to clean them. After our thorough inspection, we will then know what steps we have to take to return your home to its preloss state, "Like it never even happened."

Services available after a fire

  • House Fire Cleanups
  • Smoke Remediation
  • Water & Fire Damage Restorations
  • Content Cleaning
  • Content Pack-Outs
  • Fire Debris Removal
  • Structural Deodorization

Even if the fire that breaks out in your company's warehouse gets extinguished quickly, it is still wise to call SERVPRO of Reading at (610) 779-8189.

How Can Reading Professional Water Restoration Remove Commercial Sprinkler Water Damage?

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

A commercial building with a ceiling view of a sprinkler SERVPRO of Reading knows all the important disaster remedies, give us a call today for effective restoration.

SERVPRO Water Restoration Salvages Reading Businesses After Accidental Sprinkler Activation

There are many causes for accidental sprinkler discharge that can introduce large amounts of water into a restaurant, such as Reading business owners hiring contractors to perform renovation or routine cleaning of the sprinklers going awry. Fortunately, there is preventative maintenance that business owners can undertake to minimize incidents and fast-acting solutions for when disaster strikes.

Reading SERVPRO commercial water restoration offers the tools and techniques necessary to clean up a water-damaged business to code. Technicians and franchise owners alike receive extensive training and education to return commercial properties to a pre-disaster condition after moisture exposure.

What Causes Accidental Restaurant Sprinkler Activation?

Some common causes include:

  • Accidentally hitting a sprinkler head with a ladder or other object can cause activation.
  • Proximity to heat sources like lights, electronics, or machinery can also set off a sprinkler.
  • Cleaning sprinkler bulbs with compressed air can run the risk of cooling and shattering the sprinkler’s thermal glass bulb, which can also cause discharge.

Many incidences of accidental sprinkler activation are preventable with regular maintenance and the installation of sprinkler head guards.

SERVPRO professionals can extract large amounts of water from sprinkler activation with portable and truck-mounted extractors to prepare a restaurant dining area for structural drying with air movers and dehumidifiers. Cleanup also includes wiping down contents like tables, chairs, and booths with OSHA-approved biocides and performing odor control with solvent-based deodorizers.

SERVPRO of Reading can make a commercial disaster look “Like it never even happened.” Call (610) 779-8189 24 hours a day, seven days a week for restoration.

What Restoration Focuses Start Fire Recovery in Reading Offices?

11/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo Commercial fire damage restorations services by SERVPRO are top-notch. Our IICRC certified technicians have the experience and technology you need.

Fires Can Impact Your Business in Several Ways, But Our SERVPRO Team Can Help.

With hundreds of causes for fire damage scenarios, it is wise for property managers and business owners to have a plan in place for emergencies to get restoration started as soon as possible. We have a free program to increase efficiency and mitigation times when SERVPRO is your chosen restoration team, known as Emergency READY Profile Plans.

Removing Water Damage from Affected Areas

One of the first steps in managing fire damage for Reading businesses and offices is to clear any water damage. Suppression of active fires utilizes the sprinkler suppression system installed in the office, which can leave pools of water and considerably damp conditions throughout the damaged areas that must get removed and dried before greater threats result. Some of the equipment used for this includes:

  • Weighted extractors
  • Carpet wands
  • Squeegee wands
  • Wet vacuums

Clearing Debris and Damaged Matter

Cleaning up after a fire loss can be a considerable challenge, especially when charred remnants of building materials, furniture, and contents all stand in your way. One of the mitigative solutions that begins fire recovery is removing this debris to lessen the severity of airborne soot damage and to reduce the strength of present smoke odors.

Establishing Containment to Keep Your Business Going

Containment is vital for almost any type of damage that your business might endure. Preventing the migration of fire-loss effects can be an important strategy to keep production moving despite the needed restoration. Physical barriers with plastic sheeting can help, but we also establish perimeters with HEPA filtration equipment to keep soot, smoke, and even odors from migrating beyond the ignition point.

Specific emergency services and mitigation solutions immediately assist fire-damaged businesses and commercial properties in the Greater Reading area. We have experienced restoration professionals to start these initial actions as soon as we arrive. Give our SERVPRO of Reading team a call today at (610) 779-8189.

Vital Large Loss Mold Remediation Equipment for Kutztown Businesses

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

Locker room Mold remediation services for your commercial property should be handled by SERVPRO. Our technicians are fast and experienced in all phases of service

With Skilled Professionals Ready to Help, Our SERVPRO Team can Help Mold-Damaged Kutztown Businesses.

Our professionals must work as fast as possible to begin mold remediation in your damaged business. We have several strategies ranging from surface treatments to aggressive cleaning and controlled demolition. In addition, we also provide several mitigative actions when we first arrive to prevent more significant harm to your building, like:

  • Water removal
  • Content relocation
  • Bulk material removal
  • Odor neutralization

Mold Inhibiting Products

While it is vital to get mold removal in Kutztown businesses started as soon as possible, part of this process also deals with keeping the situation from getting worse. As mold remediation specialists, we work to contain the damaged area in the sense of physical barriers and the application of potent mold inhibitors, sporicidal products, and antimicrobial sprays.

Trailered Desiccant Dehumidifiers

Dehumidification equipment makes a space capable of supporting mold growth with moist conditions less habitable. With large commercial structures with several levels and vast open areas, trailered desiccants are ideal for moisture management and remediation. This equipment gets stationed outside, and quick-connect hoses pipe the intake/exhaust.

Trailered Generators for Recovery Equipment

Generators also play a key part in the remediation and recovery of damaged commercial properties. With most of the equipment in our mold removal and water restoration inventory running on electricity, trailered generators provide substantial portable power to energize dozens of spider boxes placed in work areas and run the equipment we need.

With the threat that mold can present to your business, leave your property in the trusted hands of skilled remediators to help. Our SERVPRO of Reading team can rapidly assess the water removal, drying, and mold removal needs of the structure to make microbial threats “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (610) 779-8189.

Reading Area Commercial Sites Can Benefit from SERVPRO's ERP Program to Mitigate Storm Damage

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo SERVPRO commercial damage restoration service is second to none. Call now to have your property back to preloss condition ASAP.

Rapid Recovery from Flood Damage for Your Reading Business

Southeastern Pennsylvania faced summer storms with deadly effects earlier this summer. Knowing that your Reading business could be in the path of drenching rain, pounding hail, and fierce winds make you think hard about preparation for disaster. Whether you run an event center, welcome guests to a quaint bed and breakfast, manage a warehouse, or work with a large staff in an office building, severe weather can expose your livelihood to ruin if you are not ready. 

Partner with a Reliable Disaster Recovery Company

Previously developing a relationship immediately with our reputable remediation team improves your outlook if flood damage strikes your Reading enterprise. Talk with your insurance company or other business acquaintances about highly qualified disaster response companies in the region. Our name emerges as an industry leader. We offer a full spectrum of services needed when severe weather brings flooding and other damage to your commercial building and its contents.

Consider Developing an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP)

Take our partnership one step further by collaborating with us to design an Emergency READY Plan and Profile (ERP.) Seasoned SERVPRO managers assess your commercial setup and operational style. We save digital pictures, sketch layouts and learn about your priorities. You add details using our mobile app, sharing contact information for the vendors and contractors who devised your systems and sold you equipment. We can reach out to them during disaster recovery to help make your business operate again “Like it never even happened.”

Adapt to Thrive After Disaster

When our team assesses your commercial space and business methods, we often offer recommendations. The suggestions we make are intended to minimize the effects of flooding and other storm-related damage. Taken seriously, the tips we share can change the odds of surviving and thriving after a disaster; nearly 50 percent of businesses struggling with flooding or another disaster risk permanently closure. When you plan ahead with our skilled team, we hit the ground running at your call for help.

Be a business that rises above the stress, damage, and expense of flooding disasters. Partner with SERVPRO of Reading to prepare for all the challenges that extreme weather can bring. Call us at (610) 779-8189 to set up a no-obligation disaster assessment.

Your Best Guide to Commercial Fire Damage Remediation in Reading

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO logo Commercial fire damage to your commercial property is a job for SERVPRO. Our IICRC certified techs are trained and experienced in all phases to help.

Commercial Fire Damage Professionals In Reading Explain How To Board Up A Structure

If your shopping center in Reading ever happens to become ablaze, the results can be quite catastrophic. Whenever our SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians work on a commercial fire damage project, the first step is usually boarding up your building. The addition of heat to your shopping center can cause windows to break. Once your shopping center's structure is exposed to the outside more problems can develop.

For example, your commercial fire damage project in Reading can get much worse when burnt materials get exposed to elements of the outdoors. Moisture coming in from the outside can cause soot residues to soak deeper into your building materials. When the interior of your shopping center is exposed to nature, objects from the outside can ruin your building materials and structural components. The above reasons are why calling in SERVPRO immediately after something burns is vital.

A board-up is the process in which a structure gets sealed from exposure to the outside to prevent further issues. When we first arrive at your shopping center, we can seal your structure using durable materials to protect your building from weather or intrusions. In some states, boarding up your shopping center requires a contractor license; in these situations, we have the option of supervising a subcontractor for the boarding up process.

Boarding Up After Fire Damage

When boarding up a building, various tools and materials are needed. Covering materials include exterior grade plywood, roofing tarpaulins, and a roll of polyethylene sheeting. Roll insulation may be required, depending on the damage. Miscellaneous nails, screws, bolts, nuts, staples, and furring strips often get used for fastening cover materials. Tools used to erect covering materials usually include hammers, hand saws, power saws, staple guns, power cords, and standard toolbox tools (screwdrivers, wrenches, etc.)

When securing your shopping center, we can utilize a few different options to properly seal openings created by the blaze. Covering the opening with plywood by attaching it to the surface around the opening makes installation easy, but provides less security since materials can easily get pulled off. Cutting plywood so that it gets inserted into a hole in your structure offers more protection. Another option includes plywood being bolted to two-by-fours so that the wooden covering is held in place by tension.

SERVPRO of Reading serves businesses in Exeter, Hamburg, or Boyertown. Call us at (610) 779-8189 with your property damage needs so we can protect your assets. Our training and experience gives us what we need to make things "Like it never even happened."

Can SERVPRO Provide Fire Damage Restoration to Commercial Buildings in Reading?

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

air scrubber porting air to exterior Air scrubbers can port pungent fire and water odors to the exterior by skilled SERVPRO technicians-improving the indoor air quality for a Reading home

Commercial Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration and Cleanup in Reading

Many fires produce a great deal of smoke which seems to diffuse into every nook and cranny of your building and expose the products and materials stored inside to smoke odors and residue. Everything is cleaned, burned materials are removed, and the entire building is deodorized, this is our goal.

SERVPRO provides all of these services, including fire damage restoration after a fire to Reading area commercial business customers. Our fire damage restoration technicians assess the damage, the distribution of smoke residues, and the residue type to ensure that everything can be cleaned and deodorized. We respond in less than 4 hours, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

We use a variety of products to deodorize your building and the contents, including:

  • Odor Counteracting Beads
  • Deodorant Granules or Pellets
  • Water-based odor counteractants
  • Water-based Wet Mist Deodorizers
  • Solvent Based Thermal Fog Deodorizers and
  • Mechanical means using HEPA filter air scrubbers and hydroxyl generators
  • Sealers

SERVPRO works closely with your building manager. We explain all of the steps needed to restore your building after a fire, and we aim to get you back in operation as soon as possible. We understand that even though you may not be the owner of the structure, your shop within it, contains your business. We work hard to protect your inventory and get your doors reopened, “Like it never even happened.”

Call SERVPRO of Reading for fire damage services in Reading and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. (610) 779-8189

Keep Your Reading Business Open with Professional Water Removal

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO restoration equipment stacked inside of SERVPRO storage facility Commercial water damage? SERVPRO can handle it. This is just some of the equipment available to restore your water damaged business.

SERVPRO can Mitigate Water Damage for Any Size Reading Business

Like much of Pennsylvania, Reading was settled by Germans. Even today, their roots are seen in the festivals, food, and traditions taking place in the town. As the county seat of Berks county, Reading is home to over 420,500 people. It is famous for the Reading Railroad. No longer in operation, it is one of the four railroads on the Monopoly game.

The Pretzel City

One of Reading's tourist attractions is outlet shopping. It was one of the first areas to create that particular industry. One of its most well-loved aspects is pretzels. Because of the various local pretzel bakeries, it became known as "The Pretzel City". There are several bakeries in production still, and they include:

  • Bachman
  • Dieffenbach
  • Tom Sturgis
  • Unique Pretzels

Reading is the place to visit if you want to sample various pretzels. From old fashioned salted pretzels to cheese-filled pretzels and all the dippings that go with them, Reading has it.

Bicycling Lover's Paradise

One of the things the area has become well known for is its cycling trails. There are five significant preserves in Reading, with over 125 miles of trails. Cyclists come from across the globe to ride the trails. The town is an International Mountain Bicycling Association Ride Center. 

Brass Era

The city got a boost in economics during what is known as the Brass Era, which was an early time in automobile manufacturing. The term comes from the Brass fittings used on the vehicle for things like radiators and lights. This new form of transportation brought an industrial boom to Reading. During this time, the cars were known as horseless carriages, and people could go places they never dreamed they could before. Reading was home to several Brass era companies, including:

  • Daniels Motor Company
  • Duryea Motor Wagon Company
  • Reading-Standard Company

Much of Reading's prosperity came from heavy industry and railroads. When these began to go downhill, the town's fortune took a turn for the worse. The town's economy has always been impacted by the railroads. Today there are still railroads operating in and out of the area carrying both freight and people. 

Flooding Impacts the City

Hurricane Agnes struck Reading in 1972, causing extensive flooding and severe damage to homes and businesses. The Schuylkill River overflowed its banks and inundated lower areas of the city. Another flood occurred in June of 2006, which caused severe damage.

SERVPRO Provides Commercial Water Removal

If your company has a water intrusion, you don't want to ignore it. Often, it can lead to situations such as standing water in lower levels, resulting in:

  • Moisture becoming absorbed by a porous material such as wood, insulation, and drywall.  
  • Stored items and flooring can be impacted. 
  • Structural degradation and deterioration of the materials.  
  • Mold can develop within 24 hours.

SERVPRO can be there within hours and provide the necessary mitigation. 

Water extraction and drying the facility is our top priority. We employ several techniques to enhance the drying, including:

  • Dehumidifiers
  • Industrial fans
  • Air movers
  • Moisture sensors
  • Chemical drying agents

Don't let your business stay out of business. Get the help you need and keep your company on track. For professional water removal in reading, contact SERVPRO of Reading at (610) 779-8189. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Italian Sparkling Wines Class in Reading

12/20/2020 (Permalink)

Glass of Sparkling wine Enjoy a variety of delicious wines from home while SERVPRO takes care of your commercial fire restoration needs.

Participants Learn Tips and Tricks For Enjoying Sparkling Wines in Reading

The holidays are the perfect time to learn about Italian Sparkling Wines. Generally, in these wine classes, the focus is on wines from specific regions. This class is solely about the types of sparkling wines that Italy offers rather than specific regional offerings. Almost everyone knows what Prosecco is; attendees will also learn about sparkling creations such as Franciacorta, Asti DOC, and Vernaccia di Serrapetrona.

This event covers: 

  • Differences that make up a sparkling wine
  • How to open a bottle like a pro
  • Learning about your wine from viewing the bubbles

This virtual experience occurs on Sunday, December 27, 2020, from 1 PM until 2 PM, and the cost per ticket is $8.85. All attendees should prepare snacks to enjoy with their tasting wines, such as charcuterie boards. Participants will get a wine list to obtain before the wine tasting.

When local properties need commercial fire restoration services, residents count on SERVPRO of Reading at (610) 779-8189. Our technicians are available 24/7 and arrive quickly. 

Kutztown Residents Can Lose Their Blues at Stoudts

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Tree with music notes on a tan background Enjoy jazz music while SERVPRO competes mold remediation in your business

See a live jazz performance at Stoudts, just a short drive from Kutztown

Jazz has one of the most versatile audiences globally, primarily because so many instruments play a part in bringing it to life. When you come out to the Stoudts Bier Garden Courtyard on November 27th, 2020, at 6 PM, you can experience some of the best local jazz music with the group So What. A combination of drums, bass, piano, sax, and soothing vocalizations provides a very casual atmosphere for your family and friends taking in the evening in Adamstown.

While capacities are still limited, Stoudts is offering this show for free. You have a full menu to choose from and order, and our bar with more than 20 taps. Brush up on state guidelines for safety before coming so that all can play a part in helping live music find a place back in the Reading area.

Water damage can lead to a need for mold remediation in Kutztown businesses. Our SERVPRO of Reading team can help with experienced remediators and fast, confident responses. Give us a call today at (610) 779-8189.

Top Secret: License to Spy at the Reading Public Museum

11/3/2020 (Permalink)

Reading Museum It will be exciting to see the community at the Reading Public Museum.

The World of Espionage Comes to Life in Reading

If you are like a good many people who are fascinated by the world of spies and espionage, you will love this event. It happens every Saturday and Sunday through January 10, 2021. The exhibit is open 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM on both days and is for spy aficionados of all ages. When you explore the exhibit, you will:

  • Gather intelligence needed to complete the mission
  • Break codes crucial to your success
  • Uncover microdots with hidden information
  • Use spy satellites
  • Create elusive disguises

It is a behind the scenes look at the espionage world with life-like sets and fun activities. It is a unique scientific adventure that brings the top-secret arena to light. 

Top Secret Birthday Party

Through December 31, 2020, you can also book an action-packed Top Secret birthday party. The package includes:

  • Detective themed games
  • Espionage Crafts
  • Spy activities
  • A visit to the exhibit

It is no secret SERVPRO of Reading offers commercial storm cleanup to Reading companies. Contact us at (610) 779-8180 for more information on how we can help your business get back to business after a storm.

What Are Some of the Primary Causes of Commercial Fires?

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

"Contact us" Fires can happen at any time. No matter how big or small, contact SERVPRO for fire damage remediation services.

SERVPRO is Here to Help with fire damages from any source.

Preventing fires in commercial buildings in Exeter, especially some of the more common ones, is relatively straightforward. For example, many business owners are surprised to learn that a fire started in a common area, or near a water heater. The fire's damage and the loss of business while the restoration is underway can significantly impact the business.

SERVPRO provides fire damage restoration services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Our teams have seen many fire sites where the fire could have been prevented. Rest assured that we can be on-site to begin cleanup and restoration in less than four hours and return your business to normal operations as soon as possible.

Several of the more common causes of commercial fires include:

Misusing equipment by untrained or careless employees

Improperly discarded cigarettes

Poorly maintained boilers, water heaters, or heating systems

Combustible trash placed near heating systems

Electrical and heating systems maintained by unlicensed technicians

Our team is available 24/7 to begin restoration and mitigate further damage caused by materials utilized by the fire department to control the fire.

How Long Will It Take to Return the Property to Its Original Condition?

Every fire restoration project is different in terms of the extent of the physical damage, the impact of water and fire retardants used by the fire department, and smoke/soot that may have spread throughout the building. One of SERVPRO's team leaders assesses the damage before developing a plan to restore your business. Details are discussed with the business owner and the insurance company if required.

Fire damage restoration can include the following actions:

Removal of all materials that cannot be repaired

Smoke and odor damaged materials are removed for cleaning and deodorization

Professional cleaning of all surfaces

Restoration of damaged structures and commercial materials

At SERVPRO, we aim to return your commercials space to its original condition, "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of Reading (610) 779-8189 for help with fire damage to your commercial building or business.

How Do I Dry Out My Business After a Water Intrusion?

6/26/2020 (Permalink)

row of commercial washing machines in a laundromat Yes, water damage happens in Reading area laundromats!! But, SERVPRO restores the facility to functionality--real fast with water removal and drying

Call SERVPRO to Restore Your Business Location in Reading

Even a laundromat in the Reading area can only handle so much water in the wrong places. If left unattended, even a small amount of water can cause thousands of dollars in damage.

It’s a Laundromat. Is It Necessary to Get Rid of the Water?

For commercial water restoration in a Reading laundromat, drying and repairing everything that’s out-of-sight is what keeps the facility ready for customers. SERVPRO restoration teams can perform every task needed from laying new linoleum to replacing a suspended ceiling.

Isn’t it Impossible to Completely Dry Out My Business?

Yes, but that is not what we do. If an environment is too dry, it can cause wall framing and other wood supports to split and crack. Too little moisture can also cause some glues to fail when it comes to carpeting and linoleum. Our technicians make certain the interior moisture, or humidity is in the correct range to reduce water damage and still provide a comfortable environment for customers. To do that, we use the following devices:

  • Axial Fans to immediately begin pulling damp air out of the building.
  • Extraction Wands to draw moisture out of wall spaces. Operators also use a heating element option to help prevent the glue from absorbing too much moisture, which causes carpet and linoleum to lift and form air bubbles.
  • Air Movers to force warm air into every space, carefully drying out each one without further damage.
  • Moisture Meters to ensure every affected point in the laundromat is in the correct range of humidity once technicians finish.

Water Can Cause Odor and Mold Problems; Can Your Technicians Stop Those Too?

Yes. SERVPRO uses a series of anti-bacterial cleaning agents that neutralize odor particles and also destroy mold spores. 

No matter how much or how little water has entered your building, call SERVPRO of Reading at (610) 779-8189 today to restore and reopen it for customers. We are here for you to protect your equipment from water damage.

How Should HVAC Systems Be Restored after a Flood

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

HVAC Restoration in Reading SERVPRO Restores HVAC Systems in Reading

SERVPRO Uses the Latest Professional Techniques for Flood Restoration

When you think of your commercial property in Reading, PA, flooding, you may assume the cause will be storm damage or the result of groundwater swelling. A broken pipe, however, can cause quite a bit of damage as well. If the pipe bursts in the basement, you could have a furnace flood on your hands. If this happens, there are many options to consider.

Furnace Maintenance

If you are lucky, you may be able to dry out the furnace and restore it to good working condition. Certified restoration specialists are essential to this process. Even if the unit seems like it is dry on the outside, it may be harboring hidden moisture in any of its internal nooks and crannies. Leftover water can cause problems as simple as inefficiency to as large as a furnace fire. If you decide to salvage the flooded furnace, you probably need to replace several parts inside it:

  • Pilot and burner
  • Controls
  • Filter
  • Gas valves

Furnace Replacement

Most experts recommend replacement after a furnace flood. This is the only way to know for sure that the item does not sustain hidden water damage. Even if it has been thoroughly cleaned and dried, one tiny drop of water could spell disaster later on.

Air Duct Restoration

The last step of the HVAC restoration process concerns your ductwork. Air duct cleaning is important to avoid the growth and spread of mold. Experts will start by replacing all the wet duct insulation as it cannot be decontaminated or dried. Then, they disassemble the duct work and give it a thorough cleaning. After it is dry, they reassemble the air ducts.

A busted pipe can cause a lot of water damage. Experts can advise on whether to clean or replace your furnace as well as provide a complete cleaning of your air ducts. A furnace flood may mean expensive replacements, but the safety of the people in your building and the avoidance of further damage is worth the cost.

If you are concerned about your HVAC system after a flood or you see signs that it is not working properly, now is the time to contact SERVPRO of Reading. Call us today at (610) 779-8189.

Learn more about Reading.

Water Cleanup In Your Reading Commercial Property

4/15/2020 (Permalink)

auto repair shop The quicker we can return a shop to its pre-disaster condition, the better it is for everyone.

We Can Save Your Water Damaged Auto Repair Shop In Reading

Residents and tourists flock to the racing scene in Reading. Maple Grove Raceway is a well-known place for excitement, taking selfies, and even a wedding proposal now and then. It’s become a symbol of our city and its determination to overcome any type of problem.

When an auto repair shop in Reading needs commercial water cleanup, SERVPRO is ready to go from zero to sixty once the team pulls up to the front door. Each restoration crew arrives with the full kit of equipment needed to get started on any job, no matter how small or large the shop.

After stopping or turning off the source of the leak, our first action is to remove the water from inside the facility. With the wide, bay doors in most garages, most of it drains away fairly quickly, so technicians begin with commercial extractors. They are smaller than water pumps, but a better design for flat, concrete floors. If there are pits underneath the lift racks, a team member also has quick access to needed pumps from our extensive equipment inventory.

After the extractors and pumps have done their work, there is still some moisture left on the surface of the floors. SERVPRO crew members use long-handled squeegees to finish the task on the main floor, carefully pushing the last of the water out through the nearest doorway and into the sewer. In the pits, they use a dehumidifier or a container of desiccant to draw moisture from the tight area, leaving it dry for safe use again.

Even if the water was clean, it might have picked trace amounts of oil and other fluids off the floors. If there is any present, technicians use a cleaning agent designed to capture them in the solution for easy removal, leaving behind a clean, dry surface ready for mechanics to get back to work.

At SERVPRO of Reading, we understand that supporting local businesses here, Birdsboro, Exeter, and Kutztown also mean supporting those owners and employees, our neighbors. The quicker we can return a shop to its pre-disaster condition, the better it is for everyone. That’s why we maintain a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week operation. To learn more about what we can do for your business, call us at (610) 779-8189 today.

For more about Reading click here.

What Tools Can Remove Water from Reading Hotel Floors?

4/5/2020 (Permalink)

flooded conference room Make sure to contact SERVPRO if the conference room or any room in your hotel suffers from water damage. Our technicians are standing by 24/7.

SERVPRO Has Multiple Extraction Tools to Mitigate Water Loss in Your Reading Business

Standing water and over-saturation can be two of the biggest obstacles that your Reading hotel faces after a substantial water loss. With powerful extraction tools at our disposal, our SERVPRO professionals can manage the immediate effects to begin drying in a timely fashion.

Choosing among the advanced equipment available to our professionals involves deciding which methods of water removal for Reading hotels are the most efficient and can limit exposure to your guests and staff. The type of flooring is also a factor, as extraction practices for carpeted floors typical in lobbies vary from water removal practices we would use on tile or laminate flooring options.

What extractors and attachments can help with water removal in your hotel? 

  • Wet vacuums
  • Electric submersible pumps
  • Truck-mounted extractors
  • Drying mats
  • Carpet wands

Water removal from the floors of your hotel must happen immediately to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your guests and staff, and our SERVPRO of Reading team can help. Call us today at (610) 779-8189.

Click here for more information about Reading.

How Do I Fix a Broken Water Pipe in My Boyertown Business?

4/2/2020 (Permalink)

Water loss due to broken pipe in Boyertown, PA Water loss due to a broken pipe in Boyertown, PA

SERVPRO of Reading Has Professionally Trained Technicians to Remediate Water Damage in Commercial Businesses

Broken pipes are not something that any business owner wants to think about. Unfortunately, if you are currently facing such an incident, you will need to take action to prevent as much loss as possible. Read on for information on what to do after such an occurrence to prevent commercial water damage in Boyertown, PA.

Reasons To Get Help

After a water emergency at your company, you may be tempted to try to ignore the situation or fix broken pipe problems yourself. This is not a good idea for the following reasons:

  1. Waiting to get help from professionals can lead to mold growth or secondary damage.
  2. Cleanup services are better prepared to perform cleaning, drying and remediation procedures than you are, and trained technicians are knowledgeable about current or potential mold issues.
  3. Attempting to clean or fix anything in your building after a water-related incident takes away time from your schedule that should be spent focusing on your business and getting it back in running order.
  4. Ignoring destruction can lead to structural issues that affect your company down the road.

Water damage specialists are used to bursting pipes and other moisture issues. They are also typically able to arrive on the scene quickly and work in an urgent matter to mitigate the issue at hand as thoroughly as possible in a fairly short amount of time.

Do Not Go It Alone!

Business owners tend to feel very proud of their commercial property, and with that pride comes a feeling of personal responsibility for anything that happens to their investment. Bursting pipes may be something that you want to handle yourself or that you consider to be less important than keeping your workplace running smoothly. However, getting help from the right source as quickly as you can do nothing but improve your chances of recovering from any damages to your structure and getting back to business as usual.

Call SERVPRO of Reading at (610) 779-8189 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve Boyertown, Exeter, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Learn more about Reading.

Why Professional Remediation is Necessary for Flooded Kutztown Hotels

6/24/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Reading has the equipment and experience to restore your water damaged hotel.

Professional Flood Damage Restoration For Your Kutztown Area Hotel

Hotels consist of 115 rooms or more on average throughout the United States. Your hotel in Kutztown can, depending on the type of establishment you choose to run, also contain many of the same amenities that homes do. In other words, you have several tiny homes confined to a small space, which makes it easy for floods to affect more than a single room on your property.

Whether you run a small Bed & Breakfast (B&B) with 10 rooms or a large hotel with 1500 rooms, you want to do everything possible to avoid flood damage. As a Kutztown local business owner ourselves, we understand how much you put into running your company and want to help you protect it. We have 24-hr emergency response teams available year-round so that we can help you keep your doors open should tragedy strike.

You might have a bed or two, a dresser, end tables, dining table & chairs, upholstered chairs, refrigerator, lamps, refrigerators, and other kitchen facilities in every room. Attached bathrooms, closets, safes, and air-conditioners are also among typical amenities found in a hotel. Facing flood damage in 100+ rooms overnight is overwhelming for any business owner. However, SERVPRO has all of the training, experience, equipment, and resources necessary to tackle even the biggest jobs.

At SERVPRO, our technicians all receive Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), which means that you can count on our team to provide you with professional restoration services you can trust. Finding and removing water anywhere on your property, drying affected areas, and restoring the contents found in each room is our fundamental goal. However, our team also goes that extra mile to ensure that you receive the results you deserve.

Gain access to highly-trained restoration technicians, water extraction, drying, cleaning, and deodorization services designed to fit your unique situation. SERVPRO gives you the help you need to return your home to a quality preloss condition, by providing quick, efficient services, and working with your insurance company to ensure a stress-free claims process.

Contact SERVPRO of Reading for additional information about the restoration services we offer throughout the Exeter, Birdsboro, and Hamburg area, today. We can answer any flood damage questions you might have and get started on your restoration immediately, or even help you avoid costly problems before they ever occur. (610) 779-8189.

More about Kutztown.

Reading Retail Fire Damage Requires Specialized Cleanup and Restoration--We Advise You to Call SERVPRO

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

Reading Fire Sale in a Mattress Store? Call SERVPRO Fast-We Never Lie Down on the Job!

Commercial Fire Damage Restoration In Reading, Pennsylvania

For Reading business owners, a fire can be the most fear-inducing event to ever happen in their retail facility. The results affect how they support their customers and pay their employees. The sprinkler or another suppression system quickly extinguish many commercial fires, so cleaning and restoration often depend on the property inside the building.
 
Restoring commercial fire damage in a Reading mattress store means cleaning surfaces that quickly absorbed smoke residues and the water used to put the fire out. There is nearly always some physical damage from heat and flames, but SERVPRO team members can quickly remove and dispose of that so they can get to the majority of the work.
 
Where possible, our technicians use dry sponges and cloths to wipe down surfaces and remove smoke residues. For very damp or wet residues, they bring in a mild cleaning agent from our chemical inventory to return items to a clean condition. For thicker residue layers, they have the option to use either hand brushes or a powered agitation device from our equipment inventory to break them up for easier removal.
 
As team members clean the mattresses and other inventory, more SERVPRO specialists set up equipment to dry everything as well. They use a combination of air movers to generate warm, dry air, and fans to circulate it throughout the facility and across damp surfaces to force out the cooler, moist air. The fans also help remove airborne odor particles from the building. Mattresses are particularly problematic for cleaning, especially in a retail situation where much value is lost since they must be sold at "fire sales" prices if they can be salvaged.
 
In addition to the store’s inventory, there is also the structure which requires restoration. With a quickly extinguished fire, technicians can remove smoke and soot residues from walls, tables, and other surfaces with a mild cleaning agent. For ceilings and areas high on walls, team members use sponges and cloths on long-handles to reach overhead. The air movers and fans that dry inventory also works well to lower the inside humidity and dry building material like ceiling tiles and drywall without causing secondary damage. The use of chemically altering odors by using hydroxyl generators and ozone machines can be advantageous under specific conditions.
 
At SERVPRO of Reading, our goal with each business is to help the owner reopen her doors so she and her employees can provide goods and services in the same excellent manner as before the fire. If you need our help, call our office today at (610) 779-8189 to see what we can do for you.

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SERVPRO Is Prepared To Get You Back To Business In Kutztown

4/16/2019 (Permalink)

We have the equipment, experience and expertise to get your business up and running smoothly again after a fire disaster.

Turning Back the Clock on Commercial Fire Damage in Kutztown Employee Breakroom

Most employee breakrooms have a microwave. These types of ovens are a common cause of commercial fire damage in businesses most often due to plastics or papers that are not microwave-safe being used. Brown paper bags are particularly volatile inside of a microwave. It is vital that fire loss is addressed as soon as possible to mitigate damage to the structure and contents.

When SERVPRO is called to turn around commercial fire damage in Kutztown retail facilities such as big box stores, our first concern is the safety of both employees and customers while we work and whether or not the business can stay open during remediation is determined on a case by case basis. During the initial phone call, we usually ask that the HVAC is turned off as smoke and soot can travel HVAC vents. In the case of damage left behind by a microwave fire, we expect smoke residue and soot, fire extinguisher residue plus odors to deal with.

Our technicians immediately determine the scale of the damage to be restored, and in the case of an employee breakroom fire, the area would be contained to limit cross-contamination outside of the breakroom, and the items that are too charred or damaged to restore are removed from the area.
Then we deal with the soot and residues that can be seen. Fire extinguishers leave a powdery film on surfaces with a pungent odor until it is removed. We use handheld vacuums with HEPA filters to capture the airborne particulates. We then use our professional-strength cleaners with wet and dry sponges as needed to clean the remaining residues. This level of cleaning is often enough to eliminate odors. We inspect and check the ductwork to ensure the HVAC is not retaining any lingering fire odors.

Sometimes after a fire loss and thorough cleaning, odors remain and no one wants to come into a breakroom that smells like smoke. We have multiple methods of treating soot odors including air scrubbers which effectively filter and clean the air. If necessary, SERVPRO technicians have stronger applications that eliminate odors at the molecular level.

We know commercial fire damage can affect both your revenue stream and your employees, that why SERVPRO of Reading at (610) 779-8189 is available 24/7 to work for you to bring your business back to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.

Spring is a great time to visit Pollinator Garden click here for more information. 

Don’t Break Your Back Over Sandbags, Try These Water Barriers Instead

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

If you know the water is coming, and you have weeks to prepare, tons of sand, and dozens of people to help you fill and move a sand bag around, this is a great way to keep the water from entering your land. But damming a commercial property in Kutztown,PA, before a storm can be difficult using one bag of sand at a time. Here are three new alternatives to the old way of property damming.

1. Water Barricade

Easy-to-use water tubes can be found in lengths between six and 50 feet. They also typically come in several diameters, including 4 inches and 20 inches. You simply lay the tube where you want the dam around your property to be, fill it with water, and watch the tubes prevent the floodwaters from damaging your property. After use, simply hang them up to dry, and store them away for the next time they are needed.

2. Water Fence

Don’t let the unusual design of a water fence put you off because it can protect as well as any sand bag. Many water fences have been engineered from marine-secure panels, reinforced with aluminum and stainless-steel, and covered in PVC canvas. Typically 4 feet tall, these fences are made of panels that can be reused up to 60 times, and that can provide protection from flood damage for years to come. Simply fold and store the sections of fence after use.

3. Water Dam

With a feel of fabric-covered diaper material, this type of floodwater protection may be one of the best flood dams available. Better yet, it can be found at most local hardware stores. Roll the sections out, run hose water over each unit, and watch it expand. The small tubes can also be stacked for additional protection. When the water recedes, the tubes can shrink as they dry out, waiting for the next storm to hit.

The back-breaking work of filling a sand bag can be a thing of the past with these new and surprisingly efficient options to raging floodwaters. Whether you need to protect a small building or a whole city block, it is easy to do with these inventive water barriers. If water does flood your property, contact a water damage specialist for assistance.

Fire Evacuation Steps You Can’t Do Without

8/14/2018 (Permalink)

Your contingency plan and fire escape strategy are essential elements of your emergency preparation.

As a business leader, you understand how important it is to be prepared in your work duties. But do you place the same priority on emergency preparation? Do you have a contingency plan if a fire starts in your Reading, PA, office and threatens everyone’s safety? Today is the perfect day to develop an escape plan. This will give you peace of mind if disaster strikes.

Time to Get Out!

If you smell smoke or see flames in your office, your first priority is quickly getting everyone out. But this shouldn’t be a free-for-all mad dash. It’s critical that your evacuation plan has order and design to it. Here are some initial steps:

• Identify nearest exits on all floors and within all parts of the building.
• Make sure your staff exists quickly but remains calm.
• Assign one or two people on each floor to sweep the area (if safe) and ensure that everyone has exited.
• Choose a designated spot near your office where everyone will gather once they exit.

Practice Makes Perfect

Telling your staff about this plan isn’t enough. You must practice it. Your company should have an annual fire drill. After the drill, it may be helpful to discuss ways you can improve. Ensure that all employees participate. You can even tell them ahead of time that you will be holding the drill.

Emergency Plan Prevention

If the fire or smoke damage makes it impossible for you to return to work for more than a few days, you need a contingency plan to keep your business running. Fire cleanup can take weeks, so make sure employees have laptops available so they can work from home. Have cloud-based backups of all data. Ensure that appropriate employees have off-site access to systems.

Your contingency plan and fire escape strategy are essential elements of your emergency preparation. Don’t find yourself in harm’s way or unable to function after disaster hits. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROreading.com/.

Don’t Dish Up Mold in Your Restaurant

7/12/2018 (Permalink)

Customers enjoy coming to your restaurant in Reading, PA, because they value your delicious, high-quality, fresh food. So how can you keep it all fresh and avoid mold growth in the kitchen? Make sure you don’t dish up something unexpected by taking a few precautions.


1. Store Food Properly.


When appropriately stored, food can remain fresh and mold-free for three to four days, allowing you to use as much of your inventory as possible. Store canned items in new, clean, covered containers and cover fresh foods with plastic wrap to keep moisture in. Keep all foods refrigerated at the proper temperature, 40 degrees or below, to prevent mold growth. You can also decrease high humidity issues in your refrigerator by not packing in too much food and allowing proper air circulation.


2. Ventilate Appliances Correctly.


Steam and warm air are the perfect environment for growing mold, and of course, that is the definition of a fast-paced restaurant kitchen. It is important to make sure that moisture-creating appliances are vented outside and that you have a high-functioning HVAC system to help circulate outside air into your work area. Maintain your HVAC system and check drip pans regularly for cracks in the bottom or overflowing liquid, as that can lead to damage and unnecessary repairs.


3. Address Leaks Quickly.


Regularly checking appliances allows you to catch any leaks quickly. However, if you find that you didn’t catch the water damage in time, there are professional remediation specialists who can prevent further damage and control existing issues. Addressing the problem in a timely manner can keep costs down.

Your highest priority is to serve the best food Reading, PA, has to offer, and these steps can help make certain that you can do that every day. Storing your food carefully, ventilating appliances correctly and quickly fixing any leaks can prevent mold growth and help keep your kitchen healthy and efficient.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROreading.com.

How To Minimize Destruction From Storms

6/15/2018 (Permalink)

Mother Nature sometimes delivers unpleasant surprises, but there are many preemptive measures business owners can take to minimize storm damage in Reading, PA.
Preparation is crucial, though even so, the wrath of a bad winter storm may eventually require restoration with the help of professionals.


Develop a Plan.


Getting your business through a patch of rough weather requires a strategy:

1. Staying informed about potential weather threats is easy to do these days with television, radio and the internet. An app on your cell phone, tablet, or personal computer makes it easier than ever to know what’s coming your way.
2. Maintaining the business’s roof, windows, foundation and HVAC system can, to an extent, head off storm damage. Frequent inspections can alert you to the potential for water infiltration, whether from rain or melting snow.
3. Heading off a common winter storm problem, the pipe break, is a key strategy. Taking the time to install low-cost insulation around pipes can forestall the misery of interior flooding.


Anticipate a Solution.


Anticipating your response to a weather event is sound, proactive thinking. Getting to the site as soon as it is safe to travel and assessing the damage is important to prevent further destruction of the building or its contents. Knowing how to shut off water and electricity and making sure others do, too, is vital. Keeping materials and tools on hand to cover broken windows, patch the roof and pump out water will save the scramble to assemble this equipment after the damage occurs. Identifying the most competent and reliable restoration professionals in Reading, PA, before you need them will move things along more quickly in the aftermath.

It's never too early to make sure your business is ready for the cold season. The adage “hope for the best but prepare for the worst” is appropriate when considering what a winter storm can do to your building.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROreading.com.

Damage to Contents After a Fire

5/31/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Contents Cleaning

Contents includes furnishings as well as equipment. The remediation and restoration company you choose can estimate the likelihood of successfully restoring soft furnishings such as sofas, chairs and floor coverings. The process can include removing moisture and stains as well as smoke odors. You can determine the tradeoffs between restoration or replacement with the help of experts and your insurance company.

Even if electronic equipment didn’t experience direct damage by fire or water, it can sustain damage from smoke and soot. Smoke contains acids that can corrode components, and a computer’s battery can be subject to combustion. It’s wise to wait for a professional to assess your equipment before turning anything on.

 For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROreading.com.

Estimating What a Commercial Fire Costs

5/20/2018 (Permalink)

Establishing the financial cost of a commercial fire in Reading, PA, requires the help of experts. The National Fire Incident Reporting System identified some important points to bear in mind when estimating fire cost:

• An estimate of fire loss considers structural damage and damage to contents
• Damage to contents includes the effects of fire, smoke, water and overhaul
• The International Code Council’s building valuation data formula is recommended by the U.S. Fire Administration as the tool that should be used by fire departments to determine dollar loss


Structural Damage


Determining structural fire damage should be done by fire remediation and restoration professionals. While melted plastic and charred wood are obvious to the naked eye, other damage can remain hidden. Water used to control the fire can seep into areas not open to view to warp floors and cause wallboard to crumble. Professionals can assess whether repair or replacement is most appropriate.

Getting Back to Normal

Your remediation and restoration company can help ensure that you’ve considered all aspects of possible fire damage. Their estimate can be the basis of a bid for the work that needs to be performed in order to get the business back to normal operation.

For more information, please visit us at http://www.SERVPROreading.com.

What To Do If the Pipe Bursts

3/30/2018 (Permalink)

Broken pipes are hard to repair, so it is a good idea to call a plumber as quickly as possible. Before making a phone call, make sure that your water supply is completely shut off. Use mops, towels, and sponges to clean up as much water as possible.

If there is too much water and you can't mop them anymore, use a plastic pipe or a water pump to drain out water. If it is possible, you should remove sensitive items away from water.

Put wooden planks or aluminum underneath your furniture to protect them from water damage.

Frozen pipes can be disastrous if they are not taken care of quickly. It’s a good idea to take precautions to avoid dealing with broken pipes and water damage. By knowing how to handle the situation, you can make the water cleanup process as smooth as possible.

Visit http://www.SERVPROreading.com for more information on commercial water damage.

Importance of Professional Smoke Cleaning Services

2/16/2018 (Permalink)

Smoke cleaning can be tough. After a fire, there is usually extensive smoke damage to take care of. The smoke can seep into every space in your business. It can end up throughout your cabinets, in your air vents and into the floor. This is why it’s imperative that you have a professional restoration service to help rid your company of the smoke smell as quickly as possible. Here are three reasons why professionals should handle it.


1. Fast and Effective


After a fire, you have to get to work on the restoration as soon as possible. The damage done to your business will not stay the same or get better overnight. In fact, the damage can get worse if you don’t take care of it. Odors will not disappear, and soot can damage your furniture and electronics further. A restoration service will understand the importance of working in a timely manner.


2. Trained and Experienced


Keep in mind that professionals have been trained in fire restoration and smoke cleaning. They will know the proper way to neutralize odors for good. They have experience that helps them recognize how to handle the restoration. Most firms will come up with an extensive plan of attack to utilize against smoke odor.


3. Certified and Equipped


Not only do you receive someone certified and trained when you look for a professional in smoke cleaning, but you also have someone who has the proper equipment to take care of the damage for good. For instance, he or she may use an air filtration device, thermal fogger or an ozone machine to take care of odors.

Restoration after a fire isn’t easy to take care of on your own. It can be easy to overlook damage or to make a mistake during the cleanup effort. If you need the smoke out of your building, then it’s best to have someone qualified in Reading, PA.

For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROreading.com.

What To Do When Your Pipes Freeze

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

When it’s very cold outside, pipes have the potential to freeze and burst, which can lead to serious water damage. As water within your pipes freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the metal fixture. Once a pipe bursts, a torrent of liquid can find its way into unwanted places within the building and can lead to some difficult water cleanup and mold control. Here are a few tips on what to do when your pipes freeze and how to take care of broken pipes.

Find Out If It’s Frozen

Frozen pipes in Reading, PA are a common occurrence when the temperatures drop. You might be able to tell if your pipes are frozen if water doesn’t come out of your faucets or your toilets won’t refill after flushing. If there is frost on any of your pipes, or they are slightly bulging, the water within is likely ice.

Thaw Your Pipes

First, it is wise to shut off the water supply before doing anything else. Sometimes frozen water can act as a plug and, once thawed, can lead to a sudden flow of water. If your pipes have any cracks at all, this may lead to some serious water damage. Once you’ve done this, try using a hair dryer or a heat lamp to thaw the pipe.

Visit http://www.SERVPROreading.com for more information on commercial water damage.

When Storms or Floods Hit SERVPRO is Ready!

8/14/2017 (Permalink)

Our Disaster Recovery Teams

SERVPRO of Reading & Pottsville 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 Berks or Schuylkill County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 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 At 610-779-8189 or 570-622-8991

Restoring Your Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Reading commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Reading

SERVPRO of Reading specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a 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.