Revitalizing Your Space After Winter Wear and Tear

4/15/2024 (Permalink)

Let your home bloom this spring!

As winter winds down, it's time to spruce up your home and welcome the freshness of spring. Here's a tailored list of actionable DIY tasks to revitalize your space after the cold season, ensuring it's ready to embrace the warmth and vitality of spring.

Exterior Inspection and Repair:

• Seal any cracks in the foundation, siding, or driveway to prevent water damage.

• Inspect the roof for loose or damaged shingles, repair or replace as needed to prevent leaks.

• Clean and repair gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage to the exterior of your home.

Deep Clean and Declutter (spring cleaning edition):

• Declutter each room by organizing and purging unnecessary items. Donate or discard items you no longer need to create a fresh and spacious environment.

• Deep clean carpets, rugs, and upholstery to remove built-up dirt, dust, and allergens. Call SERVPRO today if you would like professional carpet restoration.

Garden and Landscape Revitalization:

• Prune shrubs and trees to remove dead or overgrown branches and promote healthy growth.

• Clear debris and weeds from garden beds and borders. Add fresh mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

• Plant seasonal flowers, herbs, or vegetables to add color and fragrance to your outdoor space.

Energy-Efficient Updates:

• Upgrade to energy-efficient LED light bulbs throughout your home to save on electricity costs and reduce environmental impact.

• Clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, and vents to improve air quality and efficiency. Replace air filters in HVAC systems for optimal performance.

• Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and ducts with weatherstripping or caulking to improve insulation and lower heating and cooling bills.

By tackling these actionable DIY tasks, you can breathe new life into your home and prepare it for the joys of spring. From exterior repairs to interior deep cleaning and energy-efficient updates, each task contributes to a refreshed and revitalized living space that's ready to embrace the season ahead.

Unwrapping Efficiency This Holiday

12/27/2023 (Permalink)

Give yourself the gift of efficiency!

Keeping your space refreshed and welcoming doesn't always have to require a massive effort. We are here to help you unwrap efficiency this holiday with some attainable tips that can make a big difference in saving time and enhancing your enjoyment during the holidays!

• Designate a Cleaning Day for Certain Areas: Pick a specific day each week to do a quick, focused cleaning of certain spaces.

• Create a System for Incoming Mail: Mail can quickly pile up! Sort through mail daily, tossing what you don't need and organizing bills or important documents immediately.

• Invest in Organizational Tools: Use storage bins, baskets, and organizers to keep items in their designated places, making it easier to find things and out of the way.

• Implement the Two-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than two minutes, do it immediately. This prevents small tasks from accumulating and becoming time-consuming.

• Portable Cleaning Kit: Have a small kit with essential cleaning supplies in a central location for quick touch-ups before unexpected guests arrive.

• Practice Mindful Consumption: Before buying something, consider if it adds value to your life.

• Reflect and Adjust: Periodically assess your routines and make adjustments as needed. What works during one season may need tweaking in another.

These small, daily efforts can lead to a consistently clean and organized space, freeing up time for you to enjoy the holidays.

Fire Safety and Recovery

11/2/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is coming in HOT with the fire tips!

Fire, a captivating yet dangerous force, can devastate homes and businesses. At SERVPRO of Decorah, we understand the havoc it can cause. Let’s explore fire causes, prevention, and recovery, emphasizing SERVPRO's crucial role in restoration!

Common Causes of Fire

Fires stem from various sources: electrical faults, cooking mishaps, or natural disasters. Recognizing these triggers is vital for prevention. What is the main star of this blog is some of the things that we can do to work on preventing any fire mishaps.

Prevention Strategies

• Electrical Safety: Regular checks and proper usage prevent electrical fires.
• Kitchen Safety: Vigilance while cooking and smoke alarms enhance kitchen safety.
• Heating and Appliances: Maintenance and responsible use are key to preventing fire.
• Smoke Alarms and Extinguishers: Regular testing and accessible extinguishers are essential.

Recovery with SERVPRO of Decorah

SERVPRO offers swift, comprehensive fire damage restoration services:

• Assessment: Thorough evaluation of the damage.
• Cleaning and Restoration: Advanced techniques to restore items and eliminate odors.
• Structural Repairs: Skilled repairs to ensure safety.
• Mold Remediation: Remediation of mold growth.
• Insurance Support: Assistance with insurance claims.
• Compassionate Assistance: Emotional support throughout the process.

Prevention, awareness, and prompt action are vital in fire safety. SERVPRO of Decorah stands as a reliable partner in restoration, ensuring your home and peace of mind are restored swiftly and efficiently. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember, SERVPRO is here to help you recover.

Potion-making: Homecare Recipes

10/12/2023 (Permalink)

Brewing up something spectacular!

we're excited to share three simple yet effective DIY elixir recipes that will not only keep your home sparkling clean but also infuse it with delightful, natural fragrances. Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to a fresher, more inviting living space.

Spider-Be-Gone Elixir:

Tired of eight-legged visitors making themselves at home? Our Spider-Be-Gone Elixir is your ultimate solution. With just three ingredients – water, white vinegar, and peppermint essential oil – you can create a powerful spider repellent that's safe for your family and pets. The refreshing scent of peppermint not only keeps spiders at bay but also adds a pleasant aroma to your home. Follow our easy instructions: mix the water, vinegar, and peppermint oil in a spray bottle, then spritz around windows and doorways. Enjoy a web-free home without the use of harmful chemicals.

Citrus Germ-Buster:

When it comes to eliminating germs and brightening up your space, our Citrus Germ-Buster elixir is your go-to solution. Harnessing the natural cleaning power of lemons, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide, this elixir wipes out germs while leaving behind a zesty citrus fragrance. Combining the juice of fresh lemons with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, this elixir is perfect for cleaning countertops and bathroom surfaces. As a reminder, always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area before use to ensure compatibility with your surfaces.

Autumn Spice Simmer Pot:

As the seasons change, bring the cozy aroma of fall into your home with our Autumn Spice Simmer Pot recipe. Using simple ingredients like orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, fresh ginger, bay leaves, and water, you can create a simmer pot that fills your space with the delightful scents of autumn. Combine the ingredients in a pot, add water, and let it simmer on low heat. The result? A warm, inviting atmosphere that welcomes you home.

Embrace the power of these natural elixirs to create a healthier and more pleasant environment for you and your loved ones. Whether you're warding off spiders, eliminating germs, or embracing the spirit of fall, these DIY solutions are your keys to a cleaner, cozier home. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks from SERVPRO, your trusted partner in home care.

Renewed Wings

9/13/2023 (Permalink)

Restoring life's precious treasures!

At SERVPRO of Decorah, we excel not only in restoring homes but also in reviving cherished possessions that hold sentimental value. Just as the eagle soars high, our cleaning technicians meticulously renew your treasured items.

We understand that cherished possessions are more than just objects; they carry memories and emotions. Whether it's a figurine, a family heirloom, or a work of art, these items are irreplaceable. That's why our team is committed to handling them with the utmost care and expertise.

Our process begins with a thorough assessment to determine the best cleaning approach. We use gentle, specialized techniques to remove dirt and grime, ensuring the item's integrity remains intact.

Our goal is simple: to restore your cherished items to their original condition whenever possible. 

Trust SERVPRO of Decorah to handle your memories with care and expertise. Contact us today to renew the wings of your most cherished possessions and keep your memories flying high! 

We Are Now on Montgomery Street!

7/6/2023 (Permalink)

There's no place like SERVPRO!

In 2020 amidst the pandemic, we opened up the doors of SERVPRO of Decorah. Three years later and we are pleased to announce our new space, located on 604 Montgomery, Street! We are thrilled to make what used to be the veterinary clinic, into our new home in Decorah!

Our team is dedicated to providing superior service to our communities in times of need. We understand that when the unexpected happens, it can be overwhelming. We are here to provide peace of mind and make the restoration process as smooth as possible. Our team is IICRC certified, experienced, and highly trained in the latest restoration technology and techniques. When it comes to fire damage restoration and water damage restoration, we offer the best service to restore your home or business. We are proud to serve Decorah residents and surrounding counties when you need it most!

Thank you to everyone who has supported our mission!

Sump Pump Battery Backup Is a No Brainer

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Take preventative measures to protect you and your home!

As professionals in the restoration business, we have pretty much seen it all. When looking at the jobs that our technicians are tackling lately, we have seen a good portion of water damage due to sump pump malfunctions or failures.

WHAT IS A SUMP PUMP?

For homes nowadays, sump pumps are a necessary appliance, especially to make sure that you are protected. They are there to guarantee that excess water caused by heavy rain does not flood your basement if the primary pump were to fail. These pumps are often installed under your basement floor, however, if it happens to be a pedestal pump, they may sit about your pump basin.

HOW OFTEN DO THEY FAIL?

It is recommended that you replace your sump pump every 10 years to avoid any issues. As with any other appliance, there is always a possibility of malfunctions. One of the most common times for this is during a power outage. Any sump pump that has been installed for 7 years is more likely to experience issues, however, no matter how new or old your pump is, there is always a chance that it could fail. The question is, do you want to chance it?

PUT YOUR MIND AT EASE WITH A BATTERY BACKUP

If this information is making you weary, we have a solution that can help put your mind at ease. A battery backup for your sump pump is a wonderful and relatively cheap way to protect yourself from a flooded basement. If a power outage occurs, the backup will kick on and provide enough energy for your sump pump to continue working. It is much less costly in the long run to have a battery backup installed; this will save you thousands of dollars in water damage if your sump pump were to malfunction!

When will you be installing yours?

Heavy Rains: Friend or Foe?

6/18/2022 (Permalink)

Protect your home, protect your wallet!

Living in Iowa, we go through periods of time where people pray for rain during dry spells. There is no doubt that rain can be our friend when we are in need of hydration. On the other hand, rain can hold the title of a foe. When heavy rains occur, our homes are vulnerable to water damage. Now, we know that rain can be a breath of fresh air and it’s not logical to think that you can control mother nature. That is why SERVPRO is here to give you some helpful ideas for preventing water damage during heavy rains.

PLAN YOUR LANDSCAPING

The way that you arrange your landscaping can serve as a preventative measure when considering water damage.

• Plant trees away from the home so branches are clear from your roof and windows.
• Create a rain garden so that when large amounts of water drain, they are not draining in the direction of your home.
• Consider using a higher quality mulch. Certain types of mulch can help prevent water from seeping into your home.

SEAL WINDOWS & FIX SMALL DAMAGES

Sealing potential openings for water in your home could be a huge money saver! If your roof has even a tiny bit of damage, the chance of water getting in is higher than if your roof or home is completely sealed off to the elements.

• Adding window stripping around your doors and windows is a great way to ensure that they are sealed.
• Get your roof inspected by a professional.

SUMP PUMP MAINTENANCE & BACKUP

It is common for people’s sump pumps to malfunction when heavy rains occur, we see this a lot as professionals in the restoration business.

• Get a sump pump battery backup.
• Maintain your sump pump and check it frequently to ensure everything is working properly.

These precautions are just a few options, there are so many more measures you can take against water damage that will save you a boatload of money in the future!

If water decides to break up with you as a friend and become your foe, call SERVPRO of Decorah today, we are here to help!

563.277.1615

You're in the Dog House Now!

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Burnt brisket was not on the menu!

You're getting ready to host a gathering at your home, time is fast approaching. The brisket that you have been carefully preparing is now resting on top of the stove and all is well. Until... the unspeakable happens. Your beloved family dog's mouth is watering for that brisket, how could it not, you've put so much effort into that delicious piece of meat! He jumps up to get a taste, hits the burner, and causes the stove top to turn on. 

Unfortunately, this is not a fictional story and it is not the first time something like this has happened. You now have a very scorched brisket, and even worse, your whole house is burning along with your belongings. 

You can never predict these things, however, you can take prevention and education seriously and always be doing things to lesson your chance of fires, water damage, and other disasters. 

If you are not following us on social media, nows the time to do so! We post many helpful educational tidbits, home improvement tips, safety measures, and more! You will find our socials at the bottom of this newsletter!

Call SERVPRO today if you are in need of cleanup  or restoration! 

Summer Maintence Checklist

5/30/2022 (Permalink)

Check those boxes!

With our changing seasons, we usually all remember to change the heating and cooling furnace filter but it's the upkeep of other appliances and essential working parts of our home that we need a reminder.

• GARBAGE DISPOSAL - Turn off the power. To remove sludge, fill the sink with ice cubes then pour in 1/2 cup of coarse salt. Let the ice sit for about 30 minutes, then turn on the garbage disposal and the faucet and leave both on until all the ice and salt are gone. Use a scrub brush to clean the drain and baffle.
• DISHWASHER FILTER - Wipe off with a paper towel, then rinse with hot water till the water runs quickly through the screen. Use mild soap if needed.
• BATHROOM EXHAUST FAN - Turn the fan off. Remove the plastic exterior grille. Wipe or vacuum with a bristle brush to thoroughly remove dust. Carefully vacuum the fan housing and around the motor.
• DRYER LINT SCREEN - Remove lint, then rinse with hot water till the screen runs clear and quickly through. Use mild soap if needed.  The flexible dryer duct should also be cleaned out to make sure the lint is not clogged. Make sure the outside vent is cleared.
• FLOOR DRAIN - Remove debris and sand while wearing disposable gloves. Annually, have a floor cleaning expert to ‘snake’ or clear buildup from hair, laundry soap & fabric lent, and especially tree roots that block flow.
• DEHUMIDIFIER FILTER - Wipe off with a paper towel, then rinse with hot water till water runs quickly through the screen.
• SUMP PUMP - Test the flotation device by pouring enough water into the sump basin to trigger the pump, make sure the float moves freely and the sump pump activates when the water gets high enough. Let the pump remove most of the water and make sure it shuts off when the water is only a few inches deep. Repeat this test one more time. Make sure the intake screen or discharge pipe is not clogged. Purchase a battery-operated pump or have a generator to use if the pump were to stop due to power failure.
• AC UNIT - Turn off. Use a leafblower to remove large debris. Spray water to clean off loose debris. Spray outside unit with coil cleaner and wait 15 minutes. Rinse the cleaner off with water.

**Every appliance model is different so make sure to research your item for the location and best maintenance practices.**

As always, SERVPRO of Decorah is here to help.