Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

Process Makes the Difference

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

It’s all about the process. SERVPRO has built a tried-and-true system that is geared towards making the claims process smooth and efficient for all parties involved, from the adjuster to the property manager and essentially the property owner or resident. A couple of the key elements are COMMUNICATION and DOCUMENTATION. Optimally, SERVPRO will already have done a full property evaluation, or an Emergency Ready Plan, and photographed the entire facility or residence so that the preexisting condition is well established.

If these photos are not in place before a loss, we immediately begin to photograph the entire area and gather data such as moisture readings, evidence of organic growth, and conditions of all parts of the structure from the roof and exterior to the interior and insulation.

We then are able to build our estimates based on established IICRC protocols, so that everything is packaged for the Insurance Adjuster to compare data and evaluate the policy in accordance with accurate proof of the damages and evidence of the cause of loss. This makes for a swift turn around on getting claims approved, and allowing us to start reconstructing the property for the customer!! Easy as that! Call us today!

Tips for Removing Nasty Cigarette Odor from your Home

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Purchasing a new home with a former smoker? Besides the damages, getting the smell of smoke out is a nightmare. There are some tips that aid in this process.

1. Charcoal and White Vinegar
This method is by far the cheapest of many options as both charcoal and white vinegar are easy to come by from your local grocery or hardware store. By keeping open containers of either charcoal or white vinegar in your home, the cigarette smell is slowly absorbed out of the air. Keep in mind that this method only works for milder pockets of odor, so you might need something more heavy-duty if you've suffered a large ashtray fire.

2. Air Filters
If the solution above isn't as fast or as effective as you require, you might try an air filter. Since you're dealing with a very complex pollutant composed of many particles and gases of varying sizes, your best option is a HEPA filter. There are different ratings of filters based on what size particle you want to filter. Each filter is rated on a scale of 1 to 20 called a MERV rating. This tells you what size particle a filter effectively removes from the air. The higher the rating, the smaller particles it is capable of filtering. With a cigarette fire or odor, you should use a filter with a MERV rating of 18 or higher.

3. Contact a Professional
If these DIY tips aren't solving your issue, it's time to contact a fire cleanup and odor removal specialist at SERVPRO! These experts come with equipment that's designed exactly for this job, and they know how to use it with efficiency. One piece of tech many pros use is a hydroxyl generator. This device produces a harmless charged variant of water particles to break up odor molecules. This helps deal with the smell, and more advanced filters are used to deal with the pollutants.


Don't suffer from a lingering cigarette fire odor. Implement these tips and breathe easier.

Is It Duct Cleaning Time?

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

Allergy season is here. If you’re like many of us in Kentucky, you’re dealing with sniffles and sinus headaches too. Have you ever considered that part of your symptoms could be coming from your air ducts?

Your HVAC system circulates the air in your home anywhere from 5-7 times daily. Every time, it circulates microscopic allergens. Eventually, all of those tiny particulates build up and bring down your air quality. So if you’re one of the millions dealing with seasonal allergies cleaning your ducts could lessen the severity of your symptoms.

When Should I Get My Ducts Cleaned?

It is recommended that you get your ducts cleaned at the changes of the season. More specifically, fall or spring. It is at these times that the most dramatic changes to the weather starts. Kentuckians that are allergic to Ragweed and mold may want to consider the fall. As the nights get cooler, many of us open our windows to enjoy the fresh air. Ragweed blooms in the fall. The pollen can travel for 100 miles entering our homes while the windows are open. Damp places are the favored homes of mold and mildew. Large piles of leaves are examples of those places. Duct cleaning can also keep your energy bill down over the winter. A clean system means your HVAC unit doesn’t have to work as hard to heat your home. 

The spring is also a good time because we are generally already spring cleaning our homes. We are kicking up dust by cleaning our knick-knacks, and; our houses have been closed up all season. Kick up your spring cleaning a notch by investing in duct cleaning. Our duct cleaning services will aid in removing dust, dust mites, and pet dander from your home.

It’s also advisable to have your ducts cleaned after most reconstruction projects. The dust that accumulates post-construction can be detrimental to your air quality. Duct cleaning can keep the particulates from circulating around your house.

New homeowners should also consider getting their air ducts cleaned. This is especially true if the last time they were cleaned isn’t disclosed during the inspection. The idea of living in someone else’s dirty air does not sound appealing. 

How Often Should I Get My Air Ducts Cleaned?

A general rule of thumb is to clean your ducts at least every 4-5 years. However, certain lifestyles may require more frequent duct cleaning. For instance, animal lovers may need to have their ducts cleaned more often. This can help pet dander build up in the vents. Homeowners that smoke in their home may also want to have air ducts cleaned more regularly to battle the smell of nicotine.

If you're questioning how often to clean your ducts, NADCA simply suggests regular inspections. This will take the guesswork out of whether or not you're due for an air duct cleaning. 

Call us to schedule your duct cleaning today!

We Are a PROUD IICRC Certified Firm

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo.

IICRC Certified Firms must

  • Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.
  • Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.
  • Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.
  • Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.
  • Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

The IICRC Develops The Standards For The Restoration Industry

The IICRC has been the driving force in establishing the main industry standards and reference guides for professional carpet cleaning, water damage restoration and mold remediation. These IICRC standards take years to develop and require the coordination of experts in the field: manufacturers, industry organizations, insurance professionals, training schools, contractors, and public health professionals.

Every five years, the standards are reviewed and updated. The water damage restoration field changes rapidly with advancements in technology and science, and therefore the standards must evolve to keep pace.

8th Annual Guns 'N Hoses Blood Drive and 5th Annual Battle of the Badges

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

2021 Blood Drives hosted by SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties

The last week of June is always an exciting time for SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties! Each year we host two blood drives during this week, along with the American Red Cross, and our local First United Methodist Churches.

On Tuesday, June 22nd at the First United Methodist Church in Campbellsville, Kentucky we hosted out first drive of the year, Battle of the Badges! Along with providing support to the staff, we grilled out for both the staff and the donors. We had a tight battle for the win but…. The Police Department pulled out the win by two votes!

On Friday, June 25th SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties also hosted our 8th annual Guns ‘N Hoses Blood Drive at the First United Methodist Church. And again… the police pulled out the win against the fire department by two votes!

Congratulations to both police departments, and we hope to see everyone again next year!

April Theme of the Month

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

April Theme of the Month

This month we are focused on a service we provide that is often times hard to talk about: Biohazard Cleanup Services. This is a service that many never think about until they are in the situation to need services. Some people may try to clean this up themselves, but it is best to always choose a trained professional to come in and take care of the issue.

  • Because it is traumatic: When it is a personal connection, it is emotionally taxing to clean up the area when it is a traumatic loss.
  • Because it is safer: Any human or animal remains or fluids (including blood, feces, vomit) are all considered biohazard. That means that they can carry life threatening pathogens to the person cleaning up the area. When working with life threatening pathogens, it is important to remove and dispose of this waste properly. SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties has completed the proper trainings, including being registered and compliant with OSHA and FEMA guidelines.

If you have any questions, give us a call at 270-659-0067

WE HAVE EXCITING NEWS!

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

WE HAVE EXCITING NEWS!

As of March 25th, 2021, we are under new ownership! Dewayne and Lisa Cox of Elizabethtown, Kentucky have purchased our franchise and are ready to get to work! Here is a message from Mr. Dewayne Cox about the merger-

“I am finally able to share the news! An adventure, and it’s official! We have expanded our SERVPRO services in KY.  We are very excited about the future and this certainly would not be possible without my family, friends, our amazing TEAM COX members & my SERVPRO corporate family.

Now proudly providing fire and water restoration in:

Allen, Barren, Hart, Green & Taylor Counties.

Butler, Ohio, Hopkins, Muhlenberg & Edmonson Counties.

Daviess County”

We are excited to see where our growing team is going, and what all we can do for the communities we serve! If you see Dewayne or Lisa, give them a big congratulations!

HELP WANTED!

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

HELP WANTED!

Over the years, SERVPRO has offered more and more services to the clients we service. While our goal is always restore not replace items in a home, there are times when we do have to remove them. Several years ago we realized that we needed rebuild services to be able to put those items back, and take our customers from A to Z when it comes to their homes and businesses!

SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties is growing! To keep up with this growth, our Rebuild Department is looking to add more contractors to our list in ALL of our areas.

We are currently looking for contractors for…

Plumbers, Roofers, Handymen, Painters, HVAC, Electricians, Drywallers, Tiling / Stonework, Masonry, Carpenters, Flooring, Framing and more!

You must be licensed and insured, and willing to travel around our area. Contact Lisa at 270-670-2346 for more information. We look forward to seeing if we would be a great fit!

February Theme of the Month

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

February Theme of the Month

Each month, our Marketing Team focuses on what our business can provide to other businesses and residential homes. This month, we wanted to flip the script. SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties is focusing on what our other locally owned small businesses and organizations bring to our community. We are working with several small businesses throughout the month of February to do Community Spotlights on some of the hardworking individuals in our area. If you have or know of a local small business to be highlighted, send us a message and let us know who they are! The videos will be posted on both YouTube and on Facebook. Head on over and give our Facebook page a “Like” to follow along, and always remember to #SuportLocal!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/SERVPRO9750

Local Marketing Representative – Madison Short

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

Local Marketing Representative – Madison Short

“I just want to thank you all so much for welcoming me so warmly to the area. As the Marketing Representative for Allen/Barren/Green/Adair/Russell Counties, I look forward to continuing to develop relationships with each and every one of you. My number one goal is to provide excellent customer service and act as a bridge between you and our company. We always strive for 100% satisfaction in each and every one of our jobs and want that to show clearly in everything we do.

If we have not yet had the chance to meet, I wanted to share a few pieces of information about myself so you can get to know me a little better ahead of time.

First, I have lived in Glasgow for nearly my entire life and have a deep love for the state of Kentucky (which bleeds over to my love of my UK Wildcats, too). I grew up in a large family it has heavily influenced how much I value spending time with the ones I love. My wife and I recently found out that we will soon be adding another member to that family (est. July 2021) and cannot wait for Baby Short to arrive!

I love my job and the chance to meet so many different people on a daily basis. If I have not had a chance to drop by yet, then I cannot wait to meet you and will be seeing you soon!

Thank you and stay safe!”

Madison Short

How To Care For Reusable and Non Reusable Masks

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Now that we are living in a world full of germ-x and face masks, it is important to know how to dispose of single use masks, and also how to properly wash reusable masks.

How to properly dispose of your single use mask:

Cut straps

Place soiled mask in plastic bag and tie up.

Throw plastic bag in with the regular trash.

How to wash cloth mask:

Store wet or dirty masks in plastic bag away from any clean masks.

Wash after each use, or at least once a day.

By washer-

You may include with regular laundry

Use regular detergent and washer settings unless otherwise listed on fabric label.

By hand-

Wash in regular tap water with laundry detergent or soap.

Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

You can dry your cloth mask in wither a dryer or air dry. If you are air drying your mask, you can hand, lay flat or put in direct sunlight for it to dry completely.

How To Properly Sanitize Your Phone

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

With all of the virus and sickness going around, it is important now more than ever to keep your phone clean. The CDC suggests that you should sanitize your phone at least once a day.

Here are some easy steps on how to clean it in just a few minutes-

Step 1: Remove phone case

Step 2: Wipe phone with a cloth to remove the top layer of dirt.

Step 3: Use disinfecting wipe to wipe down the device and case. Take care around the ports and buttons. This will kill the bacteria and viruses living on your phone.

Step 4: Let air-dry for 5 minutes. This allows the cleaner to work its magic before diving back into your phone.

Step 5: Wipe off any excess disinfectant with a new soft cloth.

*It is also important to note that you should never spray any type of cleaner directly on your phone*

November Theme of the Month

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

November Theme of the Month

During the month of November, most of us are gearing up for the beginning of the holiday season! While this holiday season is going to look a bit different this year for many families, it is still a time to celebrate and bring joy to your family and community.

This is also the time of year that SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties receive extra calls regarding accidents around the holidays. With all the hustle and bustle, many people’s guards go down. This year take precautions against any accidents from happening.

Decorating- When decorating, use a proper ladder when needed. Do not use furniture or items that are intended for other uses.

If there are small children in the home, also take care to keep breakable items up high, and away from small hands.

Check any lights or decorations for exposed or frayed wires. If you find any, replace immediately.

All candles should be on a level surface, and never left unattended.

Keep both fake and real trees away from fireplaces and air vents.

Shopping- When holiday shopping, always park in well-lit areas.

Hid any bags or gifts in the car. If you have a car trunk, this is the best place for them.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or large purses. Take only what you need.

Keep an eye on your bank accounts for any suspicious charges.

Traveling- Avoid driving while tired. Also avoid aggressive or angry driving.

Leave extra room between cars when it is cold, icy or snowy.

If you are consuming alcohol, make sure to have a DD or a cab ahead of time.

Cooking and Dining- Always have an adult in the kitchen keeping an eye on things.

Keep children occupied in another room while cooking.

Keep flammable items away from the stove or any other heat source.

Preventing Foodborne Illnesses- Wash hands frequently.

Separate uncooked and cooked food.

Check the temperature of food to prevent undercooking.

Refrigerate food within two hours of preparing.

Leftovers should be consumed within 4 days.

For more information, check out this article from State Farm: statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/simple-holiday-safety-tips.

Glasgow / Barren County Chamber of Commerce's 28th Annual Golf Scramble

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties had a blast at the Glasgow / Barren County Chamber of Commerce's 28th Annual Golf Scramble on September 4th! With the current Corona Virus outbreak, we did not know if this annual event was going to be able to be held in 2020. After time and consideration, it was determined that all sponsors and participants it would be able to safely social distance during the event.

Service Marketing Representatives, Vicky Siebold and Madison Short were happy to attend the event representing SERVPRO, and be able to network with the community at a safe distance. We look forward to attending more events being scheduled in each of the counties that we cover.

Thank you for having us, and we look forward to seeing everyone again at the 29th Annual Scramble!

#TipTuesday - Changing Air Filters

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

This #TipTuesday is about home maintenance!

While this chore is typically easy, it is also easy to forget. Depending on the size of your home and amount of family members or pets, your filters should be changed anywhere from every 3 months to every 3 weeks.  A general guide to how often to change-

Vacation home, or single occupant: 2-3 times a year

Suburban home with no pets: 3 months

Suburban home with 1 pet: 2 months

Suburban home with more than 1 pet: every 20-45 days

Keeping your filters changed regularly can not only improve the quality of air being breathed in, but it can also extend the lifetime of your HVAC unit. Without the buildup of dirt, the unit can work much better and more efficiently.

Fore more information, visit: https://www.betterhomeguides.com/home-improvement/how-often-to-change-air-filter-in-homes/ 

July Theme of the Month

7/14/2020 (Permalink)

July Theme of the Month

Our July Theme of the Month is all about schools reopening around the country after the Corona Virus cut the 2019-2020 school year short. While closing schools early was necessary to help slow the spread of COVID-19, many families are excited about the thought of children being able to attend this 2020-2021 school year. While some are excited, some are also still a little apprehensive about it. At SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties, we are doing our part to try to help ease families' minds by offering cleaning services to schools, school buses, buildings, outdoor play equipment and more.

If you have any questions on services available for schools, give us a call at 270-659-0067. We are providing free quotes on our COVID cleaning services and can even set up weekly or biweekly cleanings based on your needs.  

SERVPRO is Here to Help®, no matter the situation!

T.J. Samson Community Health - Giving Back

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties presented lunch to the healthcare workers of T.J. Samson Community Hospital in Glasgow, Kentucky on May 12th, 2020. These brave men and women risk their health on a daily basis for their community, especially in times like now, when sickness is at a all time high. We were happy to also partner with several other local businesses for volunteers and donations.

Sponsors:

SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties

Phillips IGA

Extreme Fitness of Glasgow/Glass Holdings

Bailey Gibson Buick-GMC

Home Towne Settlement Services, LLC

Monticello Banking Company

Erica Spillman, Realtor

Allstate Insurance Agent: Wilson-Phillips Insurance Agency

Next week, we will also be providing lunch to the rest of the T.J. Samson Healthcare Team at the T.J. Health Pavilion. Even during these tough times, we strive to continue to serve our local communities!

Germs & Viruses Cleaning

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

During this time, you might be wondering what you can do to prevent germs from spreading throughout your home. This is especially important if you have an essential employee that is out and about during the day, and your potential of being exposed is heightened. Here are some areas of your home that you can focus on regularly cleaning, to ensure germs are taken care of:

  • Tabletops
  • Touch Points on Chairs
  • Counter Tops
  • Cabinet Handles
  • Doorknobs
  • Light Switches
  • Fridge, Sink and Microwave Door Handles
  • Bathroom Sink Hardware
  • Toilets/Toilet Handle
  • Sinks
  • Remotes
  • Phones
  • Keys
  • Car Door Handles
  • Handrails
  • Computer/Laptop
  • Tablets
  • Touch Screens

Another tip is to launder items worn outside the home in hot water as soon as they enter into the home. This will help kill germs and cut down the likelihood of them traveling across other parts of the home.

If your home has been infected by any germs or viruses, give us a call for a quote on cleaning your space. Our technique is even able to kill germs on walls, and ceilings!

We are Cleaning Experts

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is Here to Help during this time of need

During this unprecedented time caused by the global pandemic of coronavirus, this is a reminder to our customers that we are specialists in cleaning services, and we adhere to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards.

Specialized Training

We are prepared to clean and disinfect your home or business, according to protocols set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that regular janitorial staff perform on a daily basis.

The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets and tables. Other spaces mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces include:

  • Kitchen/Food Areas
  • Bathrooms
  • Schools/Classrooms
  • Offices
  • Retail Spaces
  • Water Fountains
  • Shelving/Racks
  • Sales Counters
  • Carpets and Rugs
  • Stair Handrails
  • Elevator Cars
  • Playground Equipment
  • Fitness Equipment

Specialized Products

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line carry the EPA-approved emerging pathogens claims. While there is currently no product tested against this particular strain of the coronavirus, we are following all guidelines as provided by the CDC and local authorities.

Call Today for a Proactive Cleaning

If your home or business needs deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties, 270-659-0067.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-prevent-spread.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fguidance-prevent-spread.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/guidance-business-response.html

February Theme of the Month

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

Along with keeping your pipes insulated, keep your drink insulated too!

February Theme of the Month

Each month, our franchise has a theme of what we will focus on. This month, we are working hard to help warn everyone about the dangers of having frozen pipes and want to remind everyone what they can do to prevent an issue from arising. Not only can a frozen water pipe bust and cause water issues, if not taken care of property, it can also cause mold issues to come about. Through the rest of the winter, it is important to take precautionary actions against these issues.

Some things you can do to avoid a busted pipe is:

  • Keeping garage doors closed
  • Opening cabinet doors
  • Removing water hoses from outdoor faucets
  • Letting water drip
  • Keeping thermostat the same, both day and night
  • Keep pipes properly wrapped

Using a few of these tips will greatly decrease the chances of you finding an accident in your home!

The Facts About Mold & The Odor it Causes

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to your home or business, mold is one thing you never want to come across. While the sight is enough to make you run, the smell is often just as unpleasant. While the odor is often putrid, it is often how you find the mold in the first place. While it is unpleasant to smell, it is a good thing when you locate the mold before it begins to develop uncontrollably.

Mold often hides in dark, unused places. Some of these include basements, garages, attics, crawlspaces, or even under your kitchen cabinets. It also quickly grows on food items (I bet you can find some in your fridge at work!).

Here are some more facts about mold:

Clues Your Nose Can Pick Up

· The smell is typically the first thing that people notice in their homes or businesses. It has a musty, pungent odor. Some people describe it as wet socks, the outdoors after a strong rain, or even rotting wood. It has an earthy undertone.

Why it Stinks

· Once mold hits a certain stage in growth, it begins to release mycotoxins into the air. This is an organic compound is a collection of the different items fungus is consuming to continue to multiply.

How To Get Rid of It

· When there is a chance of there being a mold outbreak in your home or business, it is best to have a professional check it out. SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties are now offering mold testing, where we can find out exactly what you are dealing with in 3-5 business days. Having this data will help you make an informed decision about what your next step should be.

Now Offering - Roof Repair and Replacement

2/2/2020 (Permalink)

During many of our water, mold or fire losses, there are items or surfaces that are damaged beyond repair. After we get done with our portion, it is time to repair the area and make it “Like it never even happened.” When we first opened, we noticed a big need for home and business owners to have help figuring out what to do next. That’s when we started looking into helping fill this void.

Soon after, SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties opened their rebuild department to be able to handle rebuild jobs. While these started with our customers that had mitigation services completed, it has quickly grown to customers that are just looking for remodeling or repairs on their homes or businesses.

Up to this point, we have only been providing services inside the home. With the growing amount of calls we have received regarding roofs, the rebuild department has now added roofing services! We are able to bid roof repairs, along with full roof replacements. Give us a call at 270-659-0067 for more information and to discuss financing options!

SERVPRO 2019 F1rst Responders Bowl

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

The 10th edition of the F1rst Responder Bowl was played on December 30th, 2019 by the Western Michigan Broncos versus our local Western Kentucky Hilltoppers! After the 2018 F1rst Responders Bowl was cancelled within the first quarter, we were excited to see the turnout for the 2019 game. We were especially excited when the contenders were announced, and Western made the cut!

The F1rst Responder Bowl is proud to help celebrate local first responders and treat them and their families to a night at the field. SERVPRO franchises from around the country donate their time, money, and tickets to provide fun for these brave heroes. We are thankful for each and every one of their many sacrifices to make our country a safer place!

After a close, great game… Western pulled out the win 23-20! Congratulations!

Biohazard Cleanup

1/5/2020 (Permalink)

Most of the general public does not realize we do biohazard cleanup as well as fire, water, and mold remediation. “Biohazard Cleanup” is considered:

  • Unattended Death Clean Up
  • Blood Clean Up
  • Homicide and Suicide Clean Up
  • Crime Scene Clean Up
  • Industrial Accidents
  • Animal Clean Up
  • Hoarding Situations
  • Body Fluids
  • Microbiological and Pathological Waste
  • And More

We are proud to have a trained staff on hand that can handle trauma that normally occurs in any biohazard situations. When we are called to work on a job site like this, we take every precaution to stay discrete and be very respectful of any situation. We are even able to work at nighttime so looking eyes do not become a problem.

Give us a call for more information and see how we can assist you during this hard time. Our goal is to help ease the heartache you are feeling and be respectful of all parties involved.

Trauma, Crime Scene, Vandalism, and Graffiti Cleanup

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties offer trauma, crime scene, vandalism, and graffiti cleanup? These are services that many people do not know who to turn to when it happens but needs taken care of as soon as possible when it does. It is also one of the most stressful times in their lives, and at SERVPRO we try our best to improve the situation.

Trauma & Crime Scene:

  • When there is a crime scene, as soon as the police are done with their investigation, we are able to come in and restore the area. SERVPRO will dispose of any pathogens or bodily fluids that are found at the scene. After the cleaning is finished, we will also deodorize the area and make sure.

Vandalism & Graffiti:

  • While both vandalism and graffiti are very upsetting to home or business owners, SERVPRO is here to help. It is also very important to get it taken care of as quickly as possible. If you have any broken windows in your home, it is important to get these repaired or tarped quickly, so a rainstorm or snowstorm does not cause interior damage. Calling for help as soon as you find the damage is the best way to minimize the issue.

Pet Carpet Cleaning Tips

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

Every indoor pet has occasional accidents. For when this happens, you need to be prepared to clean it up as soon as possible!

*REMEMBER: Before cleaning with ANY products, you need to remember to spot test a small area in an inconspicuous spot.*

For Urine Stains: When you find a stain while it is still wet, make sure to blot up any access moisture as quickly as possible. The longer it sits, the worse it will be soaked in the floor, and the farther it will spread. Use clean paper towels to do that. After you get as much as you can up, use a carpet cleaner, or a homemade mixture to soak into the carpet, and start blotting it back up.

Here is a link to a homemade, natural method: https://lifehacker.com/use-vinegar-to-get-rid-of-old-stinky-pet-odors-1520292441

Feces or Dried Stains: Before beginning anything, try to get as much up as possible without pushing it into the carpet even more. After that, use a carpet cleaner, or the above natural mixture to soak the stain. After the stain is sufficiently soaked, let dry for a day, with something covering it where no one will walk through it. After it has dried, use paper towels to gentle remove anymore of the dirt, then vacuum the spot well. This should make the stain “Like it never even happened.”!

If you are not happy with the results of just using a cleaner, call the professionals at 270-659-0067 for a carpet cleaning quote!

#TipTuesday - Lamp Shades

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

This #TipTuesday is about an item that is in each of our homes, lamp shades. 

Have you ever looked at your lamp and realized how much dust has built up and been annoyed at not knowing how to clean it? The answer is simple: lint rollers. Simply go over each area a few times, and the paper will pick up most of the dust/dirt it has collected over time. For the harder to reach places, use duct tape or regular tape.

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For more tips and tricks, follow our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SERVPRO9750, or find us on Instagram @SERVPROTEAMELKINS! 

If you have anymore questions on cleaning, or need to schedule a free quote on your home or property, reach our to us at 270-659-0067. 

Car Detailing and Deodorizing

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Before & After

Did you know that SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties can also help with cleaning your vehicle?

We had an employee purchase a new vehicle, and after a few days, noticed it was starting to smell like smoke. This was an issue because of her being allergic to the smell. Within a few hours we had mitigated the smell, and it was completely gone. Months later, the smell has yet to come back.

We also worked on a brand-new truck where a fire extinguisher had gone off in the backseat, covering it with white powder. Overwhelmed, the owner called us for advice. We were able to get the truck completely clean and back to him within a couple of days.

We have also cleaned out two police cruisers where blood was in the floor and on the seats.

While this is not typically something you think about SERVPRO being able to take care of, remember us if you (unfortunately) have any large messes in your vehicles!

February Theme of the Month

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

February Theme of the Month: 

With February statistically being the coldest month of the year, it is also typically one of our busiest months of the year.  

Knowing this ahead of time, this is the month of the year we want to focus on prevention. If you are a home or business owner, “winterizing” your properties ahead of time can prevent a lot of damage.

Our Marketing Representatives are giving out hand warmers this month to remind our contacts to not only prevent building damage, but to also prevent damage to themselves. Just like our January theme, SERVPRO wants to be there when you need them. This includes being there when you are spending time outdoors prepping your properties from the cold. Hand warmers are something you might not have on hand, but having one will make your outdoor tasks a breeze!

Another part of our theme for this month is the fact it’s the month of love. We want our relationship to be “NICE AND WARM” our insurance agents, contacts, customers, adjusters, and community.

#TeamElkins Christmas Party 2018

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

On December 11th, Team Elkins got together to celebrate the Christmas Season, and do a fun night of team building. We are thankful for each employee that was able to attend, and for those who could not. Being a 24/7 company gets tough at times, and our team works unbelievably hard each and every day. We want to make sure to take time to celebrate their work ethic, make sure everyone knows that they are appreciated, and their hard work did not go unnoticed. At the party, we worked together as teams during several different games. It was a night full of fun, laughs, and getting to know each other even better. The success of the company is dependent on our team, and how well we work together. Nights like tonight are when we strengthen and create a stronger bond between each person and department within the building.

New Year's Cleaning Challenge

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Many of us have made resolutions for 2019. One of the biggest categories of resolutions that are made are about cleaning up our homes and lives. While this is a big task, doing small tasks daily can help you keep that commitment to yourself.

Here is our 2019 New Year’s Challenge to help start your New Year clean and tidy! Choose a couple of these tasks daily to complete, and you’ll have your home and life straightened up in no time!

  • Toss out of date food
  • Clean out your purse and car
  • Wash your shower curtains in hot water
  • Sanitize all door knobs
  • Clean your microwave
  • Throw away any single socks or gloves, or any with holes
  • Dust ceiling fans
  • Check fire detector batteries
  • Recycle plastic ware with missing bottoms or lids
  • Run “Clean” setting on the oven
  • Unsubscribe to emails you no longer care about
  • Toss hair products you no longer use
  • Purge your phones photos
  • Fill out your calendar for the next few months
  • Organize your pet products in one place
  • Toss expired medicine
  • Donate shoes you no longer like or wear
  • Sanitize inside and outside of your trashcans
  • Toss old makeup
  • Organize your cup cabinet
  • Trash ragged t-shirts
  • Sweep porches or decks
  • Cancel unused memberships
  • Clean out your dryer vent

Glasgow Christmas Parade, 2018

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

On December 2nd, SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties participated in the annual Glasgow-Barren County Christmas Parade! While the parade was rescheduled due to the weather, a huge crowed still attended and stayed throughout the entire duration! We had our SERVPRO golf cart and RV both decked out with Christmas lights, wreaths, and a big green dinosaur that got named Ernie! The best part of the night was when all the children picking up candy would notice the dinosaur, and we could hear them yelling at their parents to look at it also. We had a great time and hope everyone who attended did also!

SERVPRO is a community and family oriented business run out of Smiths Grove, Kentucky. We love when we are able to get involved in the community events that are in our coverage areas. Thank you to the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce for planning this huge event!

Car Detailing - Fire Extinguisher

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

The inside door before we cleaned up all of the dust!

This brand new, four door truck was brought to us after a fire extinguisher went off in the backseat and made a huge mess. The owner did not know how to clean it up, so he called the professionals to make it "Like it ever even happened." In the photo, you see how much of the extinguisher dust got in the front. The back was even worse. 

After a deep detailing in the inside and out, we gave this truck back to its owner in pre accident condition.

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SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties is equip to take on the biggest or smallest jobs, even car detailing. Call us at 270-659-0067 for more information about what all we can take care of! 

Toys for Tots - 2018

10/25/2018 (Permalink)

The box at American Martial Arts Academy in Glasgow, KY

Toys for Tots is a charity organization the Marine’s sponsor all over the United States. SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties has teamed up with the past couple of years, including 2018! This organization helps families afford toys for their children on Christmas Day. They take monetary donations, but what they are most known for is having drop off boxes at businesses for people to buy new, unwrapped toys, and donate them in person. The toys donated are also kept in the community where they were dropped off, so you are supporting local children.

With this organization being volunteer run, SERVPRO is helping take some of the pressure off of the volunteers. We have signed up to have a box at our location, along with reaching out to and dropping off another twelve businesses in Barren County in preparation for this Christmas season.

Those locations include:

  1. SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties
  2. Glasgow-Barren County Habitat for Humanity
  3. Alex Rosser – Allstate Insurance
  4. Yancey’s Gastropub & Brewery
  5. Hosparus Health in Glasgow and Bowling Green
  6. Monticello Bank
  7. American Martial Arts Academy
  8. Highland Ridge Assisted Living
  9. Hometown Insurance Agency
  10. Main Street Bed & Breakfast
  11. Esters Farm Café
  12. Glasgow Insurance Agency
  13. The Kings Cafe

See their website for more information:

https://www.toysfortots.org/

5 Appliances That Could Cause A Water Loss

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Throughout your home there are 5 appliances that if not properly taken care of could cause a large water loss:

Hot Water Heater- The average life of a water heater is around 12 years, and 70% of their failures are because of leaks or bursts. Make it a habit to regularly check for leaks, inspect the anode rods, and piping.

Refrigerator- Your ice maker is the part of the refrigerator that typically causes the most leaks. They also typically leak in the back where you will not notice. If you replace the lines with braided steel alternatives, it could help prevent this from happening.

Dishwasher- Dishwashers are the same with refrigerators as they can cause slow leaks that you may not notice, but can cause significant damage to your flooring. Pulling the dishwasher out and inspecting under it is the best way to avoid long term damage from happening.

Washing Machine- Over half of water damage claims are the responsibility of faulty washing machine hoses. Annually check the hoses for wear and tear, or go ahead and replace them.

Air Conditioner- If you air conditioner is in the attic, once a month go check and make sure it is not leaking. When appliances are out of site, it normally takes longer to find problems. This could cause a slow leak to happen, and cause even more damage before you even realize it is happening.

#WaterLoss #Water

Commercial Kitchen Cleaning

8/10/2018 (Permalink)

When a disaster hits your business, you want to be able to open your doors again as quickly as possible. One thing that SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green and Taylor Counties is able to do that not everyone knows about is be able to clean commercial kitchens. Our employees are trained to follow regulations set for the kitchens and be mindful of hazards present. You can trust us in your time of need to clean up the mess and get you ready to reopen quickly, and efficiently. Some of the types of facilities that we are able to assist with include:

-School Cafeterias

-Fast Food Restaurants

-Food Manufacturing Facilities

-Food Distribution Centers and Factories

-Senior Living Facility Kitchens

We are available 24/7, 365 days a year to assist your business.

Call us at 270-659-0067 if you have any questions or want a free quote!

Does your Home have a Mold Problem?

7/9/2018 (Permalink)

Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is a fallacy. Consider the following mold facts: ? Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors. ? Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet. ? Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants. ? Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return. ? Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas. ? Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent. If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 270-659-0067

SERVPRO of Allen, Barren, Hart, Green, and Taylor Counties

Family Heirloom Saved from Fire Damage

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Before and After:

One of the most frequently asked questions we get is If we can clean customers contents, especially the antique items. The answer is yes, we can! 

We got a call this past week about a fire destroying the inside of a family’s home. This piano was a nonworking family heirloom, and the family was devastated at the thought of having to get rid of it. It was covered in smoke and soot, but luckily still intact. We took it back to our office and started working on saving it. We were able to fully restore the outside of it and get rid of the smoke smell it had. 

We love it when we can save items that mean a lot to our customers. This was one of those times where it is extremely rewarding to work in this industry.