Archived Commercial Blog Posts

What to do if your Commercial Building has a Fire

10/21/2022 (Permalink)

Are you prepared?

When your business suffers from a fire damage, there are several things that you need to get your business back in working order.

1. Did I File an Insurance Claim?

Make sure to know your insurance agent, so that you can quickly get in contact with them. Before you try to claim damage that occurred from flooding or other types of weather-related events, it is important to ask yourself if you filed an insurance claim and whether you received any compensation. If you have business insurance, check with your agent concerning your options before you file.

2. How Much Can I Claim?

The total amount you can claim will likely depend on past insurance claims and the type of damage your property endured. Schedule a meeting with your insurance agent before an emergency occurs, so that you are up to date on what and how much you can claim for your business.

3. How Long Do I Have To File?

You want to make sure you can file before secondary damages occur. A lot can deter your agent from being able to accept insurance claims, so having your ducks in a row, and efficiently, can be helpful.

A Timeto be Prepared

8/13/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial losses on a large scale can come quickly and carry a heavy price tag. Something as simple as a leaky roof or a drippy pipe can cause thousands in reconstructive damages and repairs. As some disasters are natural there is little that can be done to prevent injury to your building or to have an exact plan in place for preventative measures. On the other hand, there are many steps that can be implemented ahead of time that can greatly reduce the amount of time needed to recover.

Most importantly is to have an emergency plan on hand and constructed ahead of time to refer to in case disaster strikes. This should include the contact information for your nearest SERVPRO facility, as we can help assess and repair commercial damages on large and small scales on any type of disaster you may be facing.
Know where all vital power sources and water sources are located in your facility. This includes your main water shut off valve and circuit breakers as cutting these off can be major contributors to salvaging your property.
Have all vital insurance and business information prepared in an emergency folder for easy and swift access to prevent the delay of repairs and to expedite the time it takes to start the repairs.

These are just a few steps that can be taken to lessen the difficulties you may experience after Commercial building loss. SERVPRO of Racine County is just a call away and are here for you should you need us. 262-633-8888

Hail and Wind Damage

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Finally, businesses of all sizes and industries can be negatively impacted by wind and hail damage, as most states experience severe weather throughout the year. Windstorms can lead to roof damage, broken tree limbs, power outages, shattered windows, ruined signage, toppled trees, and property damage caused by flying debris and outdoor materials. Hail damage, while rare, can cause even more devastating damages for commercial properties such as ruined inventory and equipment, structural and roof damage, cracked HVAC systems, and utility outages. To reduce the potential losses caused by windstorm and hail damage, businesses should ensure that trees on the commercial property are regularly pruned, all exterior inventory or equipment is secured under coverings or tied down, and all furniture and décor is anchored to prevent being thrown around and damaging more.

Commercial Fire Damage

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

When a commercial building experiences property loss on a large scale there are many factors to take into consideration. If a fire has destroyed the structure of your building, it may be left vulnerable to the elements, vandals or animals outside. It is important to have your facility properly secured while repairs are taking place. SERVPRO of Racine County professionals are having the ability to arrive on scene and begin the restoration process immediately. Time is money which means the more quickly the damages can be restored; the faster your business is able to get back on its feet. SERVPRO works closely with your insurance company to be sure costs are always considered. When dealing with commercial building loss, give SERVPRO of Racine County a call directly at 262-633-8888. We are always available to take your call or answer any questions you may have!

Climate Change turning into Natural Disasters

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

With the ever changing dynamic with our climate, it would seem natural disasters are occurring more frequently and with more destructive outcomes. With the physical results of an unexpected natural disaster come the emotional and stressful elements as well. If you are a business owner, it is essential to have a plan set in place for critical decision making. Having designated individuals assigned to dealing with every aspect of the crisis will help them better understand what is needed from them in the following weeks. Be sure to have open communication between all persons involved to ensure they are prepared for every phase of recovery. Have realistic expectations on how quickly your business can bounce back. It takes time and effort to get back on your feet, having SERVPRO of Racine create you an Emergency Ready Plan can help keep you prepared for any type of disaster.

Do you have an Emergency Ready Profile?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Emergency Ready Profiles (ERP) are a helpful tool to have on hand in the event of property loss at your business. Severe weather, water damages, mold, fire and bio hazards are all a potential threat to your business. Having a plan for if and when any of these disasters arise will be a huge relief and time saver. Our marketing team has the capability of building a plan that right for your business, while taking into consideration your needs and expectations for the plan of action in the event of a disaster. Emergency situations can be chaotic, painful and expensive. Having a profile ready helps center your thoughts and assists you to take the appropriate steps to ensure your location will be prepared for what could happen in the future.

Five Commonly Used Commercial Flooring Products

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

Selecting flooring for your commercial space can be more multi-faceted than you might first expect. There are many contributing factors to consider when making the final decision. Do you require a smooth surface for machinery to easily glide across? Will you or your work staff be on their feet for long hours? These are major questions you should be asking yourself to determine which flooring would work best. Typically, there are five different types of surfaces most commonly used in commercialized space.

Concrete Etching: This option can leave your floor with warmth and rich earthy tones. As cement has a tendency of not retaining or being able to hold paint or stain, etching is done to create pores in the surface, allowing stain to hold.
Epoxy Coating: Most commonly used in commercial settings, Epoxy coatings cover wide surface areas of hard material such as concrete or steal. It creates a barrier over the surface which seals and aids water resistance. It consists of an epoxy resin that is crossed with a co reactant or hardener.
Vinyl Planking: Luxury planking has become a hot topic of debate in recent years for its upswings and draw backs. Visually, vinyl planking is unmatched. The variety of textures and options are forever changing and updating. Structurally though, it is not nearly as strong as its competition. It also is not as environmentally friendly as the access pieces that remain unused after installation typically ends up in the trash. Harsh cleaning chemicals are also known to warp vinyl after prolonged exposure.
Quarry tile: Is a as durable of a flooring product that you can get, although it offers little design versatility. It’s available in earth tones, hues of red, gray and tan. Quarry tile is a perfect fit where function precedes form. Common places to find this are in commercial kitchens, receiving and loading dock areas. It a low maintenance with a quick mop with degreaser after every shift.
Carpet tile: When it comes to soft-surface flooring, carpet tile is long lasting and easy to maintain. When you have a broadloom carpet it is ruined, and you have to replace the entire roll. With the carpet tiles you can take out a piece when it is ruined and replace with new tiles. The nice thing there is almost nowhere you can’t install carpet tiles.

As with any project, there are many options to weigh and decisions to make to prevent any unexpected issues present themselves. As always, SERVPRO of Racine County is here to help you with any questions or assistance you may need! Give us a call today!

Dangers of owning your own business

8/25/2021 (Permalink)

Do you know all of the dangers that may come up when owning your own business? When you least expect it a property damage could happen in a multitude of ways. Being able to prevent damages from occurring is a way to control inclement situations from arising. Protect your business from thieves by providing good lighting to the surrounding area. Secure your windows and entryways with well fitted materials such as metal or solid core wood. Protect yourself against electrical surges with power surge technology, when direct lightning hits during a storm, storm cells can cause damages. Be sure to unplug any appliances if you feel there is a potential of one occurring. Water damage is another avenue that can cause thousands in repair. Consider installing a water detection system to alert you to early water intrusion. Be sure to avoid pipes freezing by keeping your thermostat set to a minimum of 64 degrees. Always be sure to purchase and maintain your insurance coverage. If damages occur from neglect, there is a very real chance you could be stuck with a hefty bill.

In the event of a loss if you need assistance please contact our office at 262-633-8888. Our staff is on call 24/7 365 days a year.

Commercial Building Repair and Restoration

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

When your commercial building comes into contact with elements such as water or fire it could cost you time and money before its doors can re open for business. It is important to arrive on the scene and begin the mitigation as soon as possible. SERVPRO is available day and night to answer your call and begin repairs quickly. Having all equipment and company owned vehicles stored on site in heated garages gives us the advantage of being able to leave at a moment's notice. With over 30 years of experience, we have seen it all. From large scale fire loss, to extensive mold growth, we have the experience and expertise needed to arrive on scene and begin the restoration process. Damages to your business can be devastating, let SERVPRO help you get back on your feet, faster.

Commercial Building Smoke Damages

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

When a fire causes damages to your commercial building, the repairs can be extensive. Not only are you left with the restoration of what the fire has devastated, you also need to address the issue of smoke damages throughout the facility. Smoke residue can stick to hard and soft surfaces alike, leaving behind dangerous toxins that can cause health effects to your employees. It is important to have all items within your facility properly decontaminated. When fire comes into contact with plastic materials, chemicals are released, causing poisons to seep into materials that are within the building. SERVPRO has the tools needed to arrive on scene and begin the restoration process immediately. Time is money when it comes to building repair. SERVPRO is always available to answer your call for help.

Commercial Fire Loss

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

When your business feels the effects of a fire loss scenario, it can be damaging in many ways. Not only are you facing the loss of your possessions, you may be dealing with a loss of your income. Fire can leave behind a never ending amount of problems that will need to be repaired before your business can reopen. Toxic smoke is released when everyday materials in your home are burned. Touching or moving these items can cause cross contamination and may cause illness to you and those close to you. It is important to have toxic items removed carefully and with trained professional assistance. SERVPRO has the team and equipment needed to mitigate fire damages and begin the restoration process, getting you and your business back on your feet faster, call us today!

Emergency Ready Profile For Commercial Space

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Being prepared for any type of emergency event is the first step in commercial building restoration. Before Having a plan of action prepared in advance is a huge step to take in the prevention of property loss. SERVPRO provides a detailed and essential program known as (ERP). Personalized to your facility each Emergency Ready Profile details important information that is necessary in the event of an emergency. Water, fire, mold and the elements can all create scenarios in which your commercial building could suffer extensive damages. Our ERP program lists significant steps in which to take to lessen the amount of damages you incur. By being prepared ahead of time can save you time and money. Give us a call today to have your ERP created to suit your needs.

Commercial Building Covid Cleaning

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

With the dangers of COVID still posing a threat in our communities, it is important to take precautionary steps in order to keep your work space safe and sanitary. Our team at SERVPRO offers extensive prevention as well as after contact cleaning. Having your location thoroughly sanitized after exposure to COVID is imperative to having a safe work environment for your staff and your customers. Cross contamination is always a possibility when traveling in company vehicles. Maintaining and servicing your company transportation can help reduce the spread of this deadly illness. From the surfaces of your business to the air circulating through your ventilation. SERVPRO takes the necessary steps to ensure every area in your location is properly cleaned and disinfected. Taking the initiative to stay proactive in the face of this pandemic can save you time and money.

Boarding Up Your Business

8/17/2020 (Permalink)

When a commercial building experiences property loss on a large scale there are many factors to take into consideration. If a fire has destroyed the structure of your building, it may be left vulnerable to the elements, vandals or animals outside. It is important to have your facility properly secured while repairs are taking place. SERVPRO professionals are have the ability to arrive on scene and begin the restoration process immediately. Time is money which means the more quickly the damages can be restored, the faster your business is able to get back on its feet. SERVPRO works closely with your insurance company to be sure costs are always considered. When dealing with commercial building loss, give SERVPRO a call. We are always available to take your call or answer any questions you may have!

Duct Cleaning In Large Buildings

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings are not unlike typical residences as in its ventilation and duct work will need to be maintained. Having multiple points of entry in your HVAC system calls for added attention to its upkeep. There are certain clues that will alert you when a cleaning is needed. You may not immediately notice a build up of material unless you have a reason to investigate. It is in good practice to check the duct work regularly for any maintenance needs. Another sign of dirty duct work are the complaints you may receive from people who work in the building. They may begin to mention their allergies getting worse or irritation associated with breathing problems. Having a clean and well maintained HVAC system is essential to having a thriving business and happy employees. SERVPRO has the tools and experience to help keep your air clean, give us a call today for your commercial building needs.

How To Keep Your Commercial Flooring From Damage

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping your business looking clean and maintained can mean the difference between money gained or money lost. Taking the time to keep your space inviting is always worth the effort. There are a few simple steps you can take to avoid wear and tear to your floors. Be sure to take notice of your entry way. This is one of the main locations you can stop the spread of dirt or debris on the floor of your facility. By adding a mat or mesh it further prevents the decline in sanitation. Increase the days and duration you select to clean your floors. Consider vacuuming your floors as opposed to sweeping as it better removes hard to reach debris. Lastly, give your local SERVPRO a call. We have the tools and experience to get your floors polished and clean.

What's Covered?

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

When renting a commercial space it is important to have in writing what repairs will be included in maintenance. The landlord is responsible for a number of items and is solely responsible to meet their standards. A few of those would include insurance, maintenance and ensuring that all building codes are met. By law they must ensure the location is inhabitable and all basic requirements must be met. It is another story when damages are done on your part. When damages are done from family, employees or even pets, it is very likely you will have to pay out of pocket for the cleaning and repairs. The law varies from state to state so it is imperative to know this information prior to signing the lease. Know ahead of time what is covered and what is not or you could be left holding the bag on a costly fix.

Protect Your Business From Damages

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

water covers a concrete floor in the basement level of a commercial building

When owning a business, you may be well aware of the dangers that can cause time and money. Property damage can happen in a multitude of ways. Being able to prevent damages from occurring is a way to control inclement situations from arising. Protect your business from thieves by providing good lighting to the surrounding area. Secure your windows and entryways with well fitted materials such at metal or solid core wood. Protect yourself against electrical surges with power surge technology. direct lightning hits during storm storm cells can cause damages. Be sure to unplug any appliances if you feel there is a potential of one occurring. Water damage is another avenue that can cause thousands in repair. Consider installing a water detection system to alert you to early water intrusion. Be sure to avoid pipes freezing by keeping your thermostat set to a minimum of 64 degrees. Always be sure to purchase and maintain your insurance coverage. If damages occur from neglect, there is a very real chance you could be stuck with a hefty bill.

Is Your Business Prepared For Disaster?

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

With the ever changing dynamic with our climate, it would seem natural disasters are occurring more frequently and with more destructive outcomes. With the physical results of an unexpected natural disaster comes the emotional and stressful elements as well. If you are a business owner, it is essential to have a plan set in place for critical decision making. Having designated individuals assigned to dealing with every aspect of the crisis will help them better understand what is needed from them in the following weeks. Be sure to have open communication between all persons involved to ensure they are prepared for every phase of recovery. Have realistic expectations on how quickly your business can bounce back. It takes time and effort to get back on your feet, having SERVPRO of Racine create you an Emergency Ready Plan can help keep you prepared for any type of disaster.

Emergency Ready Profile Can Save Money and Time

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

One of the overlooked aspects that SERVPRO of Racine County provides is a tool that could essentially save you precious time and money. Being a business owner, having a plan in writing for any type of disaster helps keep your team prepared for what happens next. Our marketing team has the ability to create a portfolio to ensure any one of your employees knows the steps to take to mitigate the situation. We provide crucial information, locating the key elements after disaster loss, such as the main shut off valve for any water source, the location of major items in your home and what to do in each type of disaster. Having this information on hand is instrumental in how quickly you can get ahead of each event. Give us a call today to help keep you business prepared.

It's Elemental

1/8/2019 (Permalink)

Mother Nature is a force no one can reckon with. The elements are an unpredictable enemy that anyone who owns property needs to take into constant consideration. With little or no warning, a natural disaster can wipe your business off the map within the blink of an eye. It is vital to be prepared for what could potentially be in store in your future and the damage control you can have prepared for these very situations. Listed below are a few examples of how you can defend your assets against the unforeseen elements.

Risk Assessment: Where you are located can dictate your plan of action. If you are living in an area prone to flooding or located where tornadoes are common it might seem obvious in what coverage you require. A risk assessment is an important tool as it can identify the lesser probable causes of loss. Just because some events are less likely to occur than others, does not prevent the possibility of them happening. The best offense is a great defense. So be prepared.

Business Interruption Insurance: When you lose your ability to earn income do to damaged property your business interruption insurance will cover most of your loss. Some scenarios are straightforward as in water damage due to a burst pipe or structural damage caused by a fire. Natural disasters are not as specific. Secondary issues such as closed roads due to down trees can cause a loss of income and a basic interruption plan will not cover these situations. It is very important to look into supporting insurance that can be added on to cover such events.

FEMA Funding: Flooding is one of the most common side effects of natural disasters. While rain might be covered by your Business Owner's Policy, once it settles in any location it is no longer considered rain and is now defined as flood water. Flood water can only be insured by The Federal Flood Insurance Program which is administered by FEMA.

Consider all options: When insuring your commercial building it should be of highest priority to be sure all options have been considered. Be completely aware of the threat that the elements pose and the steps you can have in place to insure your property should disaster strike.

Warming up a cold space

12/4/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial buildings typically lack a certain ‘cozy’ feeling and the winter months truly showcase how dull the environment can become. Drafty windows, harsh lighting and cold floors can add to the discomfort of spacious building interiors. Luckily, there are simple and inexpensive ways to battle the cold, and warm up your environment.

Lighting: Bright, overhead lighting can be zapping your office of precious needed color and subtle warmth. Try using softer lighting options that lessen the strain on your eyes. Small table lamps and accent lighting are great options to utilize.

Carpeting/Rugs: Cement or hard flooring is not optimal to retain heat. Adding throw rugs and sections of carpeting can add texture and help soften the cold coming from below. They also add an aesthetic appeal against any hard surface.

Plants: Having live plants present in any indoor space during winter months is known for its health benefits. Not only do they help purify toxins in your home you may be unaware of they also add a pleasant contrast to the colorless landscape outdoors.

Caulking drafty windows: Do a walk about to all windows that are a barrier to the elements. If you can feel a difference in temperature or pressure a great way to shore up the exposed areas is with caulking. Meant to fill in the cracks and weak areas of seal, they help better insulate your space.

Winter in Wisconsin can arrive early and exit late. With these simple tips your commercial space will become a small escape from the outside world. As always, SERVPRO of Racine is here to help!

Consider This

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

Selecting flooring for your commercial space can be more multi-faceted than you might first expect. There are many contributing factors to consider when making the final decision. Do you require a smooth surface for machinery to easily glide across? Will you or your work staff be on their feet for long hours? These are major questions you should be asking yourself to determine which flooring would work best. Typically, there are three different types of surfaces most commonly used in commercialized space.

Concrete Etching: This option can leave your floor with warmth and rich earthy tones. As cement has a tendency of not retaining or being able to hold paint or stain, etching is done to create pores in the surface, allowing stain to hold.

Epoxy Coating: Most commonly used in commercial settings, Epoxy coatings cover wide surface areas of hard material such as concrete or steal. It creates a barrier over the surface which seals and aids water resistance. It consists of an epoxy resin that is crossed with a co reactant or hardener.

Vinyl Planking: Luxury planking has become a hot topic of debate in recent years for its upswings and draw backs. Visually, vinyl planking is unmatched. The variety of textures and options are forever changing and updating. Structurally though, it is not nearly as strong as its competition. It also is not as environmentally friendly as the access pieces that remain unused after installation typically ends up in the trash. Harsh cleaning chemicals are also known to warp vinyl after prolonged exposure.

A time to be prepared

11/9/2018 (Permalink)

Most importantly is to have an emergency plan on hand and constructed ahead of time to refer to in case disaster strikes. This should include the contact information for your nearest SERVPRO facility, as we can help assess and repair commercial damages on large and small scales on any type of disaster you may be facing.
Know where all vital power sources and water sources are located in your facility. This includes your main water shut off valve and circuit breakers as cutting these off can be major contributors to salvaging your property.
Have all vital insurance and business information prepared in an emergency folder for easy and swift access to prevent the delay of repairs and to expedite the time it takes to start the repairs.

These are just a few steps that can be taken to lessen the difficulties you may experience after Commercial building loss. SERVPRO of Racine is just a call away and are here for you should you need us.

If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (262) 633-8888