Recent Posts

How Do You Eliminate Smoke Odor Near You?

2/8/2024 (Permalink)

a smoke filled black ground with title Eliminate Smoke Odor Call SERVPRO Have Questions About Fire Damage, Smoke Odor, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today – (608) 497-3331

Call a fire restoration professional, like SERVPRO of Dane County West located in Verona, WI

Smoke odor from the various types of fire damage, such as cooking mishaps, smoking, furnace puff backs, or electrical malfunctions, creates a smoke residue that can be impossible to remove without professional-grade equipment and specialized cleaning supplies. As an IICRC Certified firm, SERVPRO of Dane County West has the training and specialized equipment and products to restore all types of fire damage. 

Depending on the smoke odor and the type of smoke damage, such as protein residue, dry smoke, fuel/oil residue, and wet smoke, there are different ways to clean and eliminate the smoke damage and smoke odor. 

The following professional-grade products, listed below, are commonly used by SERVPRO of Dane County West to mitigate fire damage:

  • Hydroxyl Generators - Hydroxyls work primarily by abstracting hydrogen atoms, thereby dismantling the molecular structure of odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Powerful hydroxyl generators using the same broad range of UV radiation as the sun are now used to naturally clean and deodorize indoor environments.
  • Ozone Machine - Used to oxidize organic odors such as smoke, pet odors, mildew, organic pollutants, and more without chemicals.
  • Air Scrubbers and Negative Air Machines - Air Scrubbers are used for cleaning and controlling air quality and creating negative pressure in a work area. How It Works: Air enters the unit and passes through a three-stage filtration process that captures smoke, fumes, mold spores, dust, and odor-causing particulates. O
  • Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that easily penetrates sites where odor-causing residues accumulate. 
  • Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products in large volume, dense fogs suitable for confined areas. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that pair with and neutralize odor-causing particles.
  • Ultra Sonic Cleaning Machines - Ultrasonic sound waves produce millions of microscopic bubbles that form and collapse, creating a gentle implosion and vacuum called cavitation to clean and restore items.  
  • Dry Soot Chemical Sponge - A natural rubber sponge designed to remove soot from fires in a dry state. The porous cells of the sponge lift soot from surfaces quickly without smearing.
  • Dry Ice Blasting - Dry ice cleaning is a "green" process that uses small pellets of recycled carbon dioxide to clean a surface. The pellets sublimate (turn from solid directly to gas) during the cleaning process. That rapid change in state from solid to gas causes microscopic shock waves that assist in removing contaminants. Dry ice blasting for fire damage restoration is non-abrasive, non-conductive, and nonflammable. Dry ice blasting generates no additional waste or secondary contamination like media and water blasting can.
  • Professional Grade Smoke Cleaning/Deodorizer Products –SERVPRO Industries, LLC has a chemical division dedicated to developing products specifically designed to clean fire-damaged contents. From floors to ceilings, SERVPRO has a cleaning product for that. 

You have so much invested in your property; trust professionals to protect your most valuable asset! SERVPRO of Dane County West understands that using professional equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. The right tool for the right job is vital to timely mitigation and restoration. 

Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened." 

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service
  • General Contractor License #: 1317784
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • For a stress-free claims process, SERVPRO works with your insurance to manage the insurance process and paperwork.
  • Independently owned and operated. Proudly serving the Dane County, Madison, WI area.

Have Questions About Fire Damage, Smoke Odor, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today – (608) 497-3331

How to Prevent Ice Dams from Forming Near You

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

an illustrated visual of an ice dam Have Water, Storm, Flood, or Fire Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today (608) 497-3331

Winter Weather Worries - Ice Dams

A roof leaking water into your interior walls, ceilings, and floors is not a pretty picture. Ice dams are a leading culprit for water leaks during the winter season. They form when heated air melts roof snow above and behind the dammed up ice when the trapped water cannot safely flow or run off the roof. The ice-dam backflows under the roof's shingles and into interior areas. 

How to Prevent Ice Dams from forming:

  • Start by removing the offending culprit in the first place. Shovel or use a snow rake to remove the snow from your roof.
  • Make sure your attic and rafter space is adequately insulated. Insulation is the first line of defense consideration.
  • Make sure your attic and crawl spaces are well ventilated. The buildup of warm air in open areas above the layer of insulation is what causes snow on the roof to melt then freeze into ice dams in the first place.
  • Make sure exhaust fans, plumbing vents recessed ceiling fans, and anything penetrating through your roof are sealed and insulated.

If winter weather strikes your business or home with water or fire damage, let us help strike back! Equipped with the training, tools, and experience to quickly and efficiently mitigate water or fire damage and restore your home or business, SERVPRO of Dane County West will help make it "Like it never even happened.”®

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service.
  • IICRC Certified Firm.
  • A rating from the BBB (Better Business Bureau).
  • 5-Star Google rankings.
  • We work with your insurance to help manage the insurance process and paperwork for a stress-free claims process.
  • General Contractor License #: 1317784

Have Water, Storm, Flood, or Fire Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today (608) 497-3331

What are the Signs of Frozen Pipes Near You?

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

a snow covered city backdrop with a caption that states Avoid Pipe Freeze with SERVPRO logo If winter weather strikes your property with water or fire damage, let us help strike back! We are an IICRC Certified Firm available 24/7

The following are Signs of Frozen Pipes

When temperatures drop below zero for an extended time like they currently are in the Dane County, WI area, and water pipes are exposed, pipes can burst.

There are a few clues which can help you determine if you have frozen pipes at your property: 

  • There Is Frost on the Pipe- For pipes that can actively be seen, such as those under sinks, you may be able to see frost that has accumulated on the exterior of the pipe. This can serve as a warning sign that the pipe is frozen before you ever try to turn on the faucet.
     
  • No Water Is Coming Out of the Faucet- Another sign that you may have a frozen pipe on your hands is lack of running water. If you or a tenant turn on a kitchen or bathroom faucet and only a slight trickle of water or no water at all comes out, the water pipe leading to the faucet may be frozen.
  • Strange Smells- A forth potential sign of a blocked pipe is an odd smell coming from a faucet or drain. If the pipe is partially or completely blocked, the only way the odor can escape is back up in the direction of your property.

If a Water Pipe is Frozen, Act Quickly!

Once you are aware that a pipe is frozen, you must act quickly to thaw the pipe. Depending on the location of the pipe and your level of expertise, you can attempt to thaw the pipe yourself or you can contact a licensed plumber to thaw the pipe for you. It is imperative to thaw the pipe as soon as possible, because it has the potential to burst and cause extensive damage to your property.

If a frozen water pipe bursts and you experience flooding, turn off your water shut-off valve to prevent further water damage. Contact a professional water restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Dane County West, to extract and mitigate the water loss and restore your property to it’s preloss damage.

If winter weather strikes your business or home with water or fire damage, let us help strike back! Equipped with the training, tools, and experience to quickly and efficiently mitigate water or fire damage and restore your home or business, SERVPRO of Dane County West will help make it "Like it never even happened.”

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service.
  • IICRC Certified Firm.
  • A+ rating from the BBB (Better Business Bureau).
  • Angie's List recommended with an A-rated reputation
  • 5-Star Google and Facebook rankings.
  • We work with your insurance to help manage the insurance process and paperwork for a stress-free claims process.
  • General Contractor License #: 1317784

Have Water Damage, Storm Damage, Flood Damage, Fire Damage or Mold?
Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today (608) 497-3331

7 Holiday Fire Safety Tips in Dane County, Madison, WI

12/7/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage to a family room from a christmas tree that caught on fire If the unthinkable happens and a fire strikes, give the experts at SERVPRO of Dane County West a call at (608) 497-3331 for fire damage restoration.

Pretty lights, candles, and decorations are just a few of the items bringing charm and cheer to the holiday seasons—however, if they are not used carefully your holidays may go from festive to frightening.

Holiday Fire Safety Tips Near You: 

  1. Place Christmas trees, candles, and other holiday decorations at least three feet away from heat sources such as fireplaces, portable heaters, radiators, and heat vents.
  2. Make sure that light strings and other holiday decorations are in good condition. Do not use anything with frayed electrical cords and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  3. Always unplug tree and holiday lights before leaving the property or going to bed.
  4. Never leave burning candles unattended or sleep in a room with a lit candle.
  5. Don't burn trees, wreaths or wrapping paper in the fireplace
  6. Make sure candles are on stable surfaces.
  7. Check and clean the chimney and fireplace area at least once a year. 

The National Fire Protection Association reports that 12% of home fires occur in December.  The higher risk of fire and smoke damage during the holiday season comes with fireplace and candle usage. 

If the unthinkable happens and a fire strikes, give the experts at SERVPRO of Dane County West a call at (608) 497-3331 for fire damage restoration.

As a locally owned and operated company, we also live and work in the Dane County, WI area. We have helped many families through difficult fire losses and have restored fire-damaged houses to homes again. We'll help make it "Like it never even happened." 

Your SERVPRO of Dane County West family wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

7 Tips to Prepare for Winter

11/28/2023 (Permalink)

servpro logo with title Winter Weather Worries Have Questions About Water Damage, Fire Damage, Smoke Damage, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today – (608) 497-3331

With temperatures dropping daily here in the Dane County, Madison, WI area, here are some tips to help you prepare for the winter months to come.

  1. Keep cabinet doors open during cold spells. This allows warm air to circulate to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. 
  2. Consider shutting off outdoor faucets to prevent frozen pipes from bursting.  Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it off. 
  3. If you follow the previous step, then open the outdoor faucet to help ensure it drains completely and the inner valve is shut off. 
  4. Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Leaves and debris accumulate, causing a damming effect on gutters, leading to roof problems and water damage. 
    • Ice dams are a leading culprit for water leaks during the winter season. Ice dams form when heated indoor air melts roof snow. The melted snow collects on unheated eaves and starts freezing, creating ice dams. When heated air melts roof snow above and behind the dammed ice, trapped water cannot safely flow or run off the roof—the ice dam backflows under the roof's shingles and into the structure's interior areas.
  5. Proper maintenance of your furnace can help reduce the risk of furnace malfunctions like puff-backs that cause extensive fire damage. 
  6. A puff-back is a messy furnace malfunction that occurs when an oil burner backfires, sending soot throughout your home or business. It can happen all at once, covering an interior in grimy soot, or a puff-back can leak soot particles more gradually.
  7. Puff-backs can also be caused by a partly clogged or cracked nozzle, improper nozzle angle, cracked electrodes, poor adjustment of the air-fuel mixture, a defective spark transformer, shorted ignition cables, or dirty or low-grade fuel.

If winter weather strikes your business or home with water damage or fire damage, let us help strike back! Equipped with the training, tools, and experience to quickly and efficiently mitigate water or fire damage and restore your home or business, SERVPRO of Dane County West will help make it "Like it never even happened.”®

  • 24-Hour Emergency Service
  • IICRC Certified Firm
  • A+ rating from the BBB (Better Business Bureau).
  • 5-Star Google and Facebook rankings.
  • We work with your insurance to help manage the insurance process and paperwork for a stress-free claims process.
  • General Contractor License #: 1317784

Have Questions About Water Damage, Fire Damage, Smoke Damage, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today – (608) 497-3331

9 Safe Cooking Tips for a Fire Free Holiday

11/20/2023 (Permalink)

a group of people gathered around a table for thanksgiving dinner Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today – (608) 497-3331

Each November, families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving by preparing a delicious feast. Unfortunately, if you do not practice safe cooking habits, your happy holiday could quickly become hazardous in a blink of an eye.

According to the NFPA, cooking is the primary cause of home fires and injuries, with the Thanksgiving holiday being the peak day for cooking-related fire emergencies.

Review the following safety tips to help ensure you can enjoy a safe holiday.

  1. Never leave cooking food unattended—stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food. 
  2. Check food regularly while cooking and remain in the home while kitchen equipment is in use. Use a timer as a reminder that the stove or oven is on.
  3. Keep small children away from the cooking area. Enforce a "kid-free zone" and make them stay at least three feet away from the stove and oven.
  4. Keep anything flammable like potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels away from the stove, oven, or other appliances in the kitchen that generates heat.
  5. Do not wear loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
  6. Clean cooking surfaces frequently to prevent grease build-up.
  7. Purchase a fire extinguisher to keep in the kitchen year-round. Contact the local fire department for training on the proper use of fire extinguishers if you are unsure.
  8. Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all kitchen appliances like stoves, ovens, and toasters are turned off.
  9. Install a smoke alarm near the kitchen and on each level of the home. Especially near sleeping areas, and inside and outside of bedrooms. Use the test button to check it is working correctly every month. Replace the batteries at least once a year.

If the unthinkable happens and fire strikes your business or home, give the experts at SERVPRO of Dane County West a call. We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

Have Questions About Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today – (608) 497-3331

How Do We Detect the Extent of Water Damage to a Property?

11/8/2023 (Permalink)

a SERVPRO® technician using a moisture meter on a wood floor When fire damage and water damage take control of your life, we help you take it back. Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today (608) 497-3331

Question: How do we detect the extent of water damage from broken water pipes, leaks, bathroom overflows, storm flooding, and the many other causes of water damage in the Madison, WI, area?

Answer: We at SERVPRO of Dane County West use industry-standard scoping tools to detect the moisture levels incurred from water damage. This allows us to effectively dry the affected areas with state-of-the-art drying equipment that includes high-velocity air movers, industrial-stand dehumidifiers, wood-floor drying mats, and air scrubbers with HEPA filtration.  

Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure affected by water damage and defining how much the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices also verify that an environment has been dried thoroughly.

SERVPRO of Dane County West uses the following equipment:

  • Moisture Sensors detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls.
  • Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that enable SERVPRO of Dane County West to monitor the drying process.
  • Thermo-hygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity. Capturing these two readings, a SERVPRO of Dane County West Professional using a psychrometric chart can calculate specific humidity, dew point, and vapor pressure. 

Once the scoping is completed, and the affected areas are identified, we use Psychrometry to measure and evaluate air conditions to create the proper atmosphere for optimal drying.

Psychometry studies the air and its temperature, humidity, vapor pressure, and dew point properties. They are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure, enabling SERVPRO of Dane County West Professionals to create the proper atmosphere for optimal and efficient drying. 

Water can damage materials in two ways: first, absorption through direct contact with water, and second, absorption of moisture from the air. Measuring the moisture content of the air is critical to the drying process. 

Once the scoping is completed and the affected areas are identified, SERVPRO of Dane County West Professionals establishes an environment favorable for drying. Using psychometry, we understand how to manipulate temperature and humidity with state-of-the-art detection and drying equipment to produce optimum drying conditions. 

When fire damage and water damage take control of your life, we help you take it back. We are an IICRC Certified Firm, Available 24/7 for Emergency Services with 5-star ratings

Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today – (608) 497-3331

As the #1 Choice in Cleanup and Restoration, you can count on SERVPRO for property restoration in the Dane County, Madison, WI area 

Are those Spider Webs or Soot Webs?

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

soot webs on the ceiling from fire damage When fire and water take control of your life, we help you take it back. Our goal is to make it…”Like it never even happened.” #608-497-3331

Believe it or not, those are not spider webs but soot webs from fire damage. Soot webs, also known as "soot tags" and "smoke cobwebs," are strings of carbon released from a fire. As the heat circulates into colder spaces, soot particles follow in chain-like formations and create these webbed structures. Soot webs are completely new formations created by soot from a fire, not neglected dust or spider webs.

A fire can leave behind soot, smoke odor damage, and other problems. As fire restoration and remediation specialists, SERVPRO® of Dane County West professionals are used to seeing the unique and often spooky appearance of soot tags. Smoke and soot can be toxic, creating a hazardous situation for your property. 

Our professionals are highly-trained, with the experience, tools, and knowledge to clean up fire damage and remove the smell of smoke. 

SERVPRO is a Leader in Fire Damage Restoration

Our IICRC-certified firm is trained and qualified to carry out a thorough assessment of the fire damage and decide on the best course of action for professional restoration. You can rest assured that your property is in good hands – we aim to restore it "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO of Dane County West is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to help you regain control quickly after a fire or water damage. In addition, it can help manage the insurance paperwork and process for a stress-free claims process. 

Are you ready to “Take Control in 1, 2, 3” in the event of a natural storm disaster in Dane County Wisconsin?  

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

servpro title with national preparedness logo Should you experience storm damage, SERVPRO of Dane County West is Here To Help 24/7. #stormdamage #propertydamage #cleanup and #restoration

National Preparedness Month (NPM) is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. This year’s theme focuses on preparing older adults that are impacted by all-hazard incidents.

SERVPRO® is once again proud to be a member of the National Preparedness Month Coalition and is committed to helping the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in its efforts to promote the importance of preparedness planning.

This year’s theme, “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” encourages everyone, especially older adults, to become more prepared in three simple steps: 

Step 1: Assess your needs. Everyone has unique needs. There are several factors that can affect the steps you need to take to prepare yourself and those you care for. Here are some common questions to assess your needs:

    • How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings? 
    • What is my shelter plan?
    • What is my evacuation route?
    • What is my family/household communication plan?
    • Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?

Step 2: Make a plan. Once you’ve assessed your needs, you can plan for what you’d do, where you’d go and what to bring if a disaster strikes. Your emergency supply kit should include items that meets your individual needs. Keep in mind some of these factors when developing your plan:

  • Different ages of members within your household
  • Responsibilities for assisting others
  • Locations frequented
  • Dietary needs
  • Medical needs, including prescriptions and equipment
  • Disabilities or access and functional needs, including devices and equipment
  • Languages spoken
  • Cultural and religious considerations
  • Pets or service animals
  • Households with school-aged children

Step 3: Engage your support network. Get to know your neighbors because they, along with your family and friends, can be a support network before, during and after a disaster by providing emotional and practical support.

  • Practice your plan with your family/household. Build a Kit. Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don't forget to consider the uniqueness of each person or pet if you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by

Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. 

Learn how to make your home and business stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards and act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.

  • Know what storm disasters and hazards could affect your area.
  • Identify how to get emergency alerts.
  • Identify where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate. 
  • Make sure your family has a plan and practices it often.

Floods, tornadoes, snow, hail and ice storms are natural disasters found in the Dane County, Madison, WI area. Every type of natural disaster brings its own type of devastation and damage.

Should you experience storm damage, SERVPRO of Dane County West is Here To Help 24/7. #stormdamage #DisasterRecovery #propertydamage #cleanup and #restoration

SERVPRO is the #1 Property Damage and Restoration Company.

What to Do if a Weather Disaster Strikes Dane County, WI

9/6/2023 (Permalink)

a visual of items on an emergency prepared kit item Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today (608) 497-3331

While it may be challenging to prepare for unpredictable thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding, there are steps you can take to help ensure you are ready if disaster strikes in the Madison/Dane County, WI area.

Consider the following tips when preparing for an approaching storm in Dane County, Madison, WI:

  1. Build an emergency supply kit that includes the following recommended items from the Federal Emergency Management Agency:
  • Water (one gallon per person per day)
  • Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
  • Manual can opener
  • Battery-operated radio, preferably an NOAA Weather Radio.
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Clothing
  • Dust masks or bandannas
  • Plastic sheeting, garbage bags, and duct tape
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
  • Hygiene items
  • Relevant documents; copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account information
  • Cash
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  1. Be alert for environmental or fire hazards around your property.
  2. Every adult in your house should know how to turn off electricity, water, and gas in an emergency.
  3. Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.
  4. Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause structural damage.
  5. If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home, or hard-top vehicle (not a convertible).
  6. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains and secure doors.

Have Storm or Flood Damage?
Call SERVPRO of Dane County West Today (608) 497-3331

Sources: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Wisconsin Department of Health Services, NOAA/National Weather Service