Recent Posts

How To Prepare Yourself for Hurricane Season

7/1/2023 (Permalink)

During hurricane season, It can be a nerve-racking time for anyone because they are not at ease. What if the hurricane is forecasted to hit your area? When a home is hit badly with a hurricane, it can leave you homeless, vulnerable and it can shatter lives as well as damage your property. Hurricane can’t be avoided but being prepared can help you and your family to minimize its impact. You don’t need to wait for a hurricane warning to be issued before you take certain precautions. 

Being prepared is essential when it comes to dealing with the physical challenges of hurricane not to mention, property damages. Here’s how to prepare yourself for hurricane season and get away with it with less stress. 

Plan your evacuation

If you live near the coast, you might be required to evacuate your home. Do not wait for the last minute and make an evacuation plan as soon as possible so you will know where to find shelter, in case you need to leave your home. Always get the latest updates from your local radio and TV or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio. If you have pets at home, find a safe place for them ahead of time. If you want to bring your furry family members with you on your evacuation place, contact the place you want to stay if they can also accommodate your pets. 

Prepare nonperishable supplies on hand

Prepare things like candles, lamps, matches, first aid kids, food that you don’t have to cook and prescription drugs. Make them ready and bring them along with you just in case. Make sure to prepare at least 3 days’ supplies of food and drinks. Consider foods that you will no longer need to cook or refrigerate just in case power supply will be cut out. 

Check your home

Make sure your home meets the necessary building codes. Check your windows if they are ready to withstand a hurricane. Cut branches and trees that could fall on your house. It might be best to install storm shutters on your windows. You might consider replacing your landscaping materials with shredded bark of trees since these are lighter compared to rocks and gravels; thus, it won’t cause as much damage. 

Keep enough cash and fill up your gas tank

It is always ideal to keep cash on hand at all times so you will have something to use during emergency situations. The same thing goes with your car tank. You can’t be sure that gas stations and ATM machines will be accessible during a state of emergency. 

Review your insurance coverage

Review your home insurance if it covers hurricane-related emergencies. Most home insurance policies cover your home for damages caused by natural disasters like hurricanes and storms. Check the policy limit and see if it can cover rebuilding your home should the need arise. See also if it covers flood damage especially if you live near the coast.

Being prepared can help you and your family in times of needs and emergencies especially during hurricane season. However, if you do encounter water damage from any weather-related issues, contact SERVPRO of East Honolulu 808-395-9545 for any water restoration needs 

How to spot ceiling water damage

6/30/2023 (Permalink)

Identifying and repairing ceiling water damage quickly is vital to the health of your home. Water damage can create a lot of issues if it is left untreated, so it is important to know how to spot it and get it fixed as quickly as possible. If you have damage from water in the ceiling of your home, it’s not just in the drywall. It came from somewhere, such as from a leaky roof or a bathroom that is leaking on the second floor, there is also going to be damage in between the floors, in the attic or crawlspace, and any areas in between where you physically see signs of water on the ceiling and where it originates.

SIMPLE SIGNS TO LOOK FOR

While there are many indicators that a ceiling has water damage, some are easier to spot than others. Before calling in professionals for a full evaluation and estimate of the damages and repairs needed, you can determine what type of damage is occurring and how severe it is to help them get a better idea of the work that may need to be done. Here are some signs to look for with water damage:

-Odors, such as a mildew smell

-Sagging ceilings

-Discolored splotches or stains on the ceiling

-Peeling paint or wall surfaces

-Crumbling or cracked drywall

Keep in mind that even a small stain on the ceiling could be indicative of much bigger issues, so never assume you don’t need professional remediation and repair services to resolve your water damage issues.

FIX CEILING DAMAGE AND LEAKS ASAP

Water damage that is left untreated can result in mold growth and further damage to the home. Plus, if you don’t identify the cause of the damage and repair whatever is leaking, you are only going to continue to have issues with ceiling damage in the future. Make sure that once you’ve identified ceiling damage caused by water, you call a professional restoration service to help repair your ceiling and resolve the root cause of the damage.

QUICK TIPS TO FEND OFF FURTHER DAMAGE

If you notice water damage, use the following tips and precautions:

-Immediately clear the area of valuables, furniture, and other items that may be damaged if the ceiling collapses or water breaches the drywall.

-Use a nail to poke a hole in the ceiling and let out any water that may be pooling on the opposite side of the drywall.

-Use your fingers to test the ceiling. If you poke it and are able to break through or make an indent in the spongy drywall, water has already breached the ceiling. If it appears intact and solid, whatever damage or discoloration you see may be from a previous repair.

-Cut off the source of water that is causing the damage, if you can. That will prevent further damage while you await a restoration team or repair service.

-Let the professionals do the big repairs and ceiling damage restoration jobs. These trained technicians know how to completely remove water damage and other resulting issues. They can replace the drywall and any boards that may have also been damaged by water. Plus, hiring restoration services allows you to remove the threat of mold and reduce the risk of future.

SERVPRO’s Journey to the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame

6/30/2023 (Permalink)

Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame The Power of Consistency SERVPRO’s Journey to the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame

Consistency is one of the cornerstones of success, and when it comes to our brand, it holds even greater significance. 

In the highly competitive world of franchising, being rated in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame is a remarkable achievement. This prestigious recognition is a testament to SERVPRO’s unwavering commitment to excellence and ability to maintain our position as one of the top franchisors in the industry for 38 years and #1 in our category for the past 20 years. 

One of the key indicators of a consistent franchisor is its ability to empower and support its franchisees. As part of the support system, the Franchise Expansion team has spent years immersed in the intricacies of the franchise system. With more than 100 years of collective experience, the Franchise Expansion team has an in-depth understanding of the brand which helps them foster potential franchisees and current franchise owners to seize opportunities and help ensure the sustainable growth of SERVPRO. 

From initial contact to closing the sale or transitioning out of the system, the Franchise Expansion team understands the importance of collaborating within the walls of HQ, working with new prospects or current owners looking to expand, helping entrepreneurs get the most value out of their business when they are looking to phase out of the system, and consistently being a support and information source for individuals who are willing to work to achieve their dreams.

Consistency plays a crucial role in achieving success, especially in franchising. A franchisor that consistently delivers outstanding results and maintains its position as #1 creates a positive feedback loop. This positive momentum attracts high-caliber franchisees and encourages customer loyalty.

Earning a place in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame is a remarkable achievement that exemplifies the power of the brand’s consistency. Franchisors that achieve and maintain this level of consistency demonstrate their ability to adapt, innovate, and provide unwavering support to their franchisees. By consistently delivering on promises, nurturing the brand, and empowering our franchisees, SERVPRO has established itself as the leader in the industry and inspires trust and confidence among stakeholders, franchisees, HQ and franchise employees, and prospects. 

Consistency is one of the top reasons for SERVPRO’s success and a key to reaching our vision of becoming the premier cleanup and restoration company in the world. 

CONGRATULATIONS, SERVPRO TEAM!

-Laura Williams

Vice President, Franchise Expansion

SERVPRO’s Journey to the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame

6/30/2023 (Permalink)

Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame The Power of Consistency SERVPRO’s Journey to the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame

Consistency is one of the cornerstones of success, and when it comes to our brand, it holds even greater significance. 

In the highly competitive world of franchising, being rated in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame is a remarkable achievement. This prestigious recognition is a testament to SERVPRO’s unwavering commitment to excellence and ability to maintain our position as one of the top franchisors in the industry for 38 years and #1 in our category for the past 20 years. 

One of the key indicators of a consistent franchisor is its ability to empower and support its franchisees. As part of the support system, the Franchise Expansion team has spent years immersed in the intricacies of the franchise system. With more than 100 years of collective experience, the Franchise Expansion team has an in-depth understanding of the brand which helps them foster potential franchisees and current franchise owners to seize opportunities and help ensure the sustainable growth of SERVPRO. 

From initial contact to closing the sale or transitioning out of the system, the Franchise Expansion team understands the importance of collaborating within the walls of HQ, working with new prospects or current owners looking to expand, helping entrepreneurs get the most value out of their business when they are looking to phase out of the system, and consistently being a support and information source for individuals who are willing to work to achieve their dreams.

Consistency plays a crucial role in achieving success, especially in franchising. A franchisor that consistently delivers outstanding results and maintains its position as #1 creates a positive feedback loop. This positive momentum attracts high-caliber franchisees and encourages customer loyalty.

Earning a place in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame is a remarkable achievement that exemplifies the power of the brand’s consistency. Franchisors that achieve and maintain this level of consistency demonstrate their ability to adapt, innovate, and provide unwavering support to their franchisees. By consistently delivering on promises, nurturing the brand, and empowering our franchisees, SERVPRO has established itself as the leader in the industry and inspires trust and confidence among stakeholders, franchisees, HQ and franchise employees, and prospects. 

Consistency is one of the top reasons for SERVPRO’s success and a key to reaching our vision of becoming the premier cleanup and restoration company in the world. 

CONGRATULATIONS, SERVPRO TEAM!

-Laura Williams

Vice President, Franchise Expansion

SERVPRO’s Journey to the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame

6/30/2023 (Permalink)

Consistency is one of the cornerstones of success, and when it comes to our brand, it holds even greater significance. 

In the highly competitive world of franchising, being rated in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame is a remarkable achievement. This prestigious recognition is a testament to SERVPRO’s unwavering commitment to excellence and ability to maintain our position as one of the top franchisors in the industry for 38 years and #1 in our category for the past 20 years. 

One of the key indicators of a consistent franchisor is its ability to empower and support its franchisees. As part of the support system, the Franchise Expansion team has spent years immersed in the intricacies of the franchise system. With more than 100 years of collective experience, the Franchise Expansion team has an in-depth understanding of the brand which helps them foster potential franchisees and current franchise owners to seize opportunities and help ensure the sustainable growth of SERVPRO. 

From initial contact to closing the sale or transitioning out of the system, the Franchise Expansion team understands the importance of collaborating within the walls of HQ, working with new prospects or current owners looking to expand, helping entrepreneurs get the most value out of their business when they are looking to phase out of the system, and consistently being a support and information source for individuals who are willing to work to achieve their dreams.

Consistency plays a crucial role in achieving success, especially in franchising. A franchisor that consistently delivers outstanding results and maintains its position as #1 creates a positive feedback loop. This positive momentum attracts high-caliber franchisees and encourages customer loyalty.

Earning a place in the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 Hall of Fame is a remarkable achievement that exemplifies the power of the brand’s consistency. Franchisors that achieve and maintain this level of consistency demonstrate their ability to adapt, innovate, and provide unwavering support to their franchisees. By consistently delivering on promises, nurturing the brand, and empowering our franchisees, SERVPRO has established itself as the leader in the industry and inspires trust and confidence among stakeholders, franchisees, HQ and franchise employees, and prospects. 

Consistency is one of the top reasons for SERVPRO’s success and a key to reaching our vision of becoming the premier cleanup and restoration company in the world. 

CONGRATULATIONS, SERVPRO TEAM!

Water Damage: the Timeline // SERVPRO of East Honolulu

6/1/2023 (Permalink)

We understand water like the back of our hand! SERVPRO of East Honolulu is proud to host technicians who have the experience and the qualifications to correctly do their job. Which we boast about and helps you in the long run. 

    We aim to categorize your damage accurately, and with precise measurements, controlling the whole process. As if we were to take your home in our arms artfully replacing damaged goods- in the tangible. Because of this we know the water damage timeline, and learned how to generally gage this on the field. 

Here is how it goes, as explained through the time since the water damage occurred and the original source  is stopped. 

MINUTES 1-22 

  • Water is absorbed through housing materials, completely saturating all sponge materials. 
  • This affects anything from floors, walls, upholstery, and house-hold belongings. Vinyl tends to get extremely damaged, as does wood finishing and drywall alike. 
  • Paper goods are starting to warp, swell, bleed, or blend; this completely damages books, documents,  and photographs. 
  • Carpets, curtains, or furniture will also start to bleed, these pigments will stain 

THE FIRST DAY 

  • Drywall starts to bulge 
  • Finishing on metal will fade 
  • The dyes and inks of household matters/items will continually spread 
  • Malodorous scents start to appear 

THE FIRST WEEK 

  • There will be physical manifestations of both mold and mildew 
  • Warping will start to happen in doors, windows, and openings and furnishes alike. 
  • Furniture or finishing with water damage will start to show mold and mildew 
  • Completely deteriorated metal finishing, will start to corrode or rust 
  • Paint jobs will start to discolor, falter, peel 
  • Flooring also warped 
  • The presence of bacteria accrues enough to be deemed a biohazard

AFTER AND BEYOND 

  • Damage is getting more costly by the day, replacing the contaminated materials would be the top priority. Secondary damage is already happening. 
  • Issues stated above become dramatically worse.  

SERVPRO of East Honolulu is here to help with any and all water damage, and our scope goes beyond that. Call us with any comments, questions or concerns at (808)396-9545

Fire Plans For East Honolulu Businesses Are Integral To Being Safe!

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Having a fire plan is simply indispensable to your business safety, keeping you, workers, and equipment ok during the worst of times. Being honest about one's potential risks from every source- including but not limited to equipment, stoves, open fires, and natural disasters informs one of their greatest concerns. 

Commercial fires are always a costly possibility, preparing for it is the best way to keep your costs to the minimum. 

Planning for fires in your commercial space may not seem like an easy feat. A great place to start is from a “safety standpoint”. Where the first pillar in which you establish your fire plan is all about safety. Safety for all living organisms, and equipment. Showing one’s employees on the key logistics if a fire was to occur is the most important way to keep everyone safe if it ever becomes a reality.   

This can come through training your employees on certain protocols that succeed in a real fire emergency.  If you deal with equipment that are more prone to chemical or oil fires, one should teach their employees on the differences of handling various fires. 

There are many tips on cultivating good fire evacuation plans, with the internet on one’s fingers there are so many tools. Here are some of the most noteworthy ideas that one might fester one when creating a fire evacuation plan.  

Deciding evacuation routes, know all the fire exits in your facility, finding all the ways possible one could exit your commercial business. One way to get great advice on your personal fire plan is our local fire stations in the East Honolulu community. Call our local fire officials who can help provide you personalized advice that may scope beyond that of the internet. 

Once you decide your best evacuation routes, clearly label them and consistently update your staff. Make sure you continuously practice fire safety by doing annual fire drills.  

Running fire drills for your employees to follow accordingly, it is important to run different fire scenarios. There are numerous ways fires can start in restaurants or offices alike. It is beneficial in the long run to integrate various scenarios in one's drills/training. It is unrealistic to fully capture the extent of a fire emergency but to plan for most foreseeable variables helps with preparedness. That may look like stating the fire is from the coffee machine blocking an exit or the turbo oven in the back instead of from the open flames. Personalizing the fire plan will only bring information and a greater gain for your workers, and a peace of mind. 

In any case, should your Honolulu business catch ablaze, SERVPRO of East Honolulu is here. We pride ourselves in the knowledge, equipment, and tools necessary to probably remediate and restore properties from natural disasters or  natural emergencies. 

We will be running right after the authorities to start our through process to help restore your commercial business. "Like it never even happened." Call us at (808)395-9545, for any comments, questions, or concerns. 

How Commercial Water Damage Restoration Saves Businesses Money

4/14/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in commercial buildings can cause extensive disruption to business operations, leading to expensive repair and restoration costs. However, when the right steps are taken immediately following a water incident, businesses can save thousands of dollars through preventative measures like professional water damage restoration services. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the ways commercial property owners can use water damage prevention and restoration solutions to minimize their financial losses. Keep reading to find out how you can protect your business from costly repairs or insurance claims!

One of the main advantages of investing in commercial water damage restoration is that it helps to save businesses money. By promptly and properly restoring a business’s property back to its original condition, companies can avoid costly repairs or replacements that would otherwise have to be done if an area had been left untreated. 

Commercial water damage restoration services also help reduce lost profits due to business closures. When businesses can keep their doors open, they are more likely to remain profitable and successful in the long term. This is especially true for businesses located near bodies of water where flooding could be a common occurrence. 

In addition to saving money on repairs and lost productivity, investing in commercial water damage restoration can also help businesses reduce their insurance costs. By restoring property quickly and efficiently, businesses may be eligible for additional discounts from their insurer thanks to their proactive approach to maintenance. This could save them even more money over time! 

The most cost-effective way for businesses to handle water damage is by hiring experienced professionals who specialize in commercial water damage restoration. These professionals have the training and expertise to identify and address any potential problems quickly before the damage worsens and costs become unmanageable. Professionals also use advanced equipment and techniques to restore an area back to its pre-damaged state, so businesses can get back up and running as soon as possible. 

In relation, commercial water damage restoration professionals are specially trained in identifying areas that could become long-term problems due to excess moisture or standing water. From inspecting ceilings for potential leaks to repairing damaged walls and floors, these experts have the experience and knowledge necessary to mitigate losses quickly. Additionally, they are also able to provide advice on preventing water damage in the future, such as installing a sump pump or ensuring all plumbing fixtures are properly maintained.

Commercial water damage restoration services are also invaluable for businesses that rely on computers or other sensitive electronics. By restoring damaged items instead of having them replaced, these companies are able to save a substantial amount of money. In addition, these services can help recover precious data that could otherwise be lost if the affected items had been discarded. 

Overall, commercial water damage restoration is a cost-effective solution for businesses that are looking to protect their investments and remain profitable.  With the help of experienced professionals such as our team at SERVPRO of East Honolulu, businesses can restore their property back to its original condition and quickly get back up and running. In addition, they can save money by restoring instead of replacing items that have been damaged due to water exposure. Investing in commercial water damage restoration is a smart decision for businesses of all sizes. So what are you waiting for? Contact us today!

HOW TO SAFELY REMOVE MOLD FROM YOUR HOME

4/14/2023 (Permalink)

Mold is a type of fungi that grows in damp, humid environments. Mold spores are everywhere – in the air, on surfaces, and in the dust. When these spores come into contact with moisture, they can start to grow and multiply. Mold grows best in warm, damp, and dark places. It can often be found in bathrooms, kitchens, basements, or any other area of the home that doesn’t have good ventilation.

If you think you have mold in your home, it’s important to take action immediately to remove it.

The first step is to identify the source. Mold can grow on many different surfaces, including paper, wood, carpet, and cloth. Check for visible signs of mold growth. Look for discoloration or staining on walls, ceilings, or floors. If you see mold growth, you should also look for any damp or water-damaged areas in your home. These areas may be the source of the problem. Check for leaks in plumbing fixtures or appliances. Look for condensation on windows or in other cold spots.

Once you’ve identified the source of the mold, you’ll need to decide how to remove it. You can use commercial cleaning products, bleach, or vinegar. However, it’s important to note that none of these methods will completely kill mold spores. As such, it’s important to take precautions to prevent mold from returning.

One of the best ways to remove mold is to use a mixture of water and bleach. This solution will kill most types of mold and spores. However, it’s important to use caution when using bleach as it can be harmful to your skin and eyes. If you’re not comfortable using bleach, you can also use vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and will kill most types of mold.

Once you’ve removed the mold from your home, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from returning. One way to do this is to make sure that your home is well-ventilated. This will help to reduce the humidity in your home, which is one of the key conditions that mold needs to grow. Additionally, you should regularly clean all surfaces in your home with a solution of water and bleach.

If you have mold in your home, it’s important to take action immediately to remove it. As a matter of fact, mold can be dangerous to your health, so it’s important to remove it as soon as you see it. Although there are many do-it-yourself mold removal products on the market, we recommend that you leave this job to the professionals. Our team of experts has the experience and training necessary to safely and effectively remove mold from your home. Contact us today at SERVPRO of East Honolulu for a free consultation.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WATER MITIGATION AND WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION?

4/14/2023 (Permalink)

why servpro If you're looking for a reason to choose SERVPRO of East Honolulu, this is the WHY

Water damage restoration and water mitigation are two vital processes that should be carried out as soon as possible. However, many people do not understand the difference between the two services. Most people would say water mitigation and water damage restorations are the same. This, however, is not always the case.

Water damage restoration refers to the process of restoring an area to preloss conditions or, even better, after being damaged by floods, hurricanes, storms, sewage, or leakages. Water damage can negatively destroy your property from floors to ceilings and anything in between. That is why you need professional help from SERVPRO of East Honolulu to prevent further damages to your property.

On the other hand, water mitigation refers to any service that reduces or prevents additional damages caused by flooding or leaking pipes. This could be installing tarps over a damaged roof during heavy storms or mitigating moisture inside walls after washing machine overflows.

Why You Need Professional Water Mitigation and Damage Restoration

The following are five vital reasons to work with a professional for all your water damage and restoration services:

1. It is Cost-Effective

SERVPRO of East Honolulu will ensure that all the damages are addressed effectively and promptly, minimizing any extra cost to you.

2. You Will Receive A Timely Response

We understand the urgency of these situations and will do everything possible to mitigate the damages as quickly as possible.

3. We Have Professional Equipment and Expertise

Water must be removed as quickly as possible to prevent any further damage. We have the necessary equipment and workforce to handle even the most massive water removal jobs.

4. We Are Water Damage Restoration Experts

Once the water has been removed, we will start our restoration services such as drying, dehumidifying, and odor removal. We also provide mold testing to ensure your property is safe for you and your family.

5. We Are Skilled With Water Damage Repair

Water can cause a lot of damage to any property. If you have had flooding or backed up drains, SERVPRO of East Honolulu will help you repair these damages.

SERVPRO of East Honolulu Services

We offer a wide range of water mitigation and damage restoration services for both personal and commercial enterprises. Some of our popular services include:

  • Water Damage Restoration
  • Mold Remediation
  • Solving Commercial Services Water Damage Issues
  • Fire Damage Restoration
  • Storm Damage Restoration

Conclusion

SERVPRO of East Honolulu is full-service water mitigation and damage restoration company that has been in business for more than a decade. We have the experience and expertise necessary to handle even the most giant water removal jobs. We are fully insured and bonded, so you can rest assured that your property is in good hands. Call us today for more information on how we can help with all your water damage needs.