Locals Praise Water Damage Restoration Company in Kailua-Kona?

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui always strive for five-star reviews from every customer we serve. Here is a recent Google review from one of our happy water damage customers in Kailua-Kona:

“This is the business to choose. I just can’t say enough good things about the service we got from SERVPRO of Hawaii and Maui. First, I called them, and they got back to me right away. Then, the great employee, Arthur, came to assess the flood damage THE NEXT DAY! Who does that these days? Apparently, no one but SERVPRO! Arthur was more than willing to show me how they determine where the water is coming from and other water damage. He spent the time to show me where they needed to cut exactly. When I went to inspect their work, the demo was immaculate and so clean that we were thrilled! The people that did the demo demonstrated that they were as concerned as a homeowner would be about the details. A huge Thank You to Arthur, Jimmy, Tsru, Reklai, Vanston, Richie, and Nick. You really went above and beyond to make sure your customers feel great about using SERVPRO! Well worth it!” Cecilia Wainright

Services: Flood restoration, Water damage-related cleanup and repair

Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness

Call Us Today!

You never know when you’ll discover water damage in your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business, but when you do, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Sudden Mold Outbreak in Wailea Home?

1/3/2023 (Permalink)

We remediate mold damage in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! Do you smell a strong, musty odor you can’t place, or have you recently had water damage in your home? Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are trained and certified to mitigate and restore mold damage in Wailea. The climate here is typically warm and dry and receives less than ten inches of rain each year, so a mold outbreak usually signifies water damage somewhere in the structure. When we inspect the damage, we will locate the source of the excess water and address this issue when the mold is removed. We follow local and state laws and can advise you on the process. Here is the process we follow for mold removal:

Mold Remediation Process

Every mold damage scenario is different and requires a unique solution, but the general mold remediation process stays the same. The steps listed below illustrate our “typical” process:

1. Emergency Contact
2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment
3. Mold Containment
4. Air Filtration
5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials
6. Cleaning Contents and Belongings
7. Restoration

Call Us Today!

You never know when you’ll find mold growing in your home or commercial business in Wailea, but when you do, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We’ll restore your mold damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Water Damage Emergency in Waikoloa Business?

12/27/2022 (Permalink)

We restore commercial property damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Do you know that 50 percent of businesses do not reopen after experiencing a fire or water loss? Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui work hard to return your property to pre-damage conditions and get you back to business as soon as possible in Waikoloa. It doesn’t take long for water to cause damage to a structure. Here are some examples of the damage water can do in as little as one hour and up to one week:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water absorbs into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24

• Drywall begins to swell and break down
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
• Furniture begins to swell and crack
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
• A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
• Metal begins to rust and corrode
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
• Paint begins to blister
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Waikaloa has flooding or water damage, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Rainy Season Storm Damage in Kailua-Kona?

12/20/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui respond to storm and flooding emergencies every year in Kailua-Kona. The average rainfall in December is 72.53 inches, so storm and flooding damage emergencies are common here. Quick action is necessary to prevent further damage when you discover a flooding issue. 

What Happens When I Call for Help With Flooding? 

When you call, we will ask you questions regarding the nature of your water damage emergency. These questions will tell us how many people and what equipment and resources to bring. 

Here are the questions we will ask you: 

• Your name and contact information 
• Your insurance information (if applicable) 
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business 
• When did the flooding or water damage occur? 
• What caused the water damage (if known)? 
• Is there electricity available (on-site)? 

Flooding Damage Restoration Process 

Step 1: Emergency Contact 

Step 2: Inspection and Damage Assessment 

Step 3: Water Removal/Water Extraction 

Step 4: Drying and Dehumidification 

Step 5: Cleaning and Repair 

Step 6: Restoration 

Call Us Today! 

When your home or commercial business in Kailua-Kona has flooding or storm damage, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo! 

Franchises are independently owned and operated. 

Holiday Fire Safety Tips for Kamuela Locals?

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii.

Aloha! Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui wish everyone in Kamuela happy holidays! More home fires occur each year in the winter months of December and January. Here are some holiday fire safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to keep you and your family safe this holiday season:

• Watch your cooking
  Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food
• Give space heaters space
  Keep fixed and portable space heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn. Turn off heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach
• Inspect electrical cords
  Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs, or have loose connections
• Be careful when using candles
  Keep candles at least one foot from anything that can burn. Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Have a home fire escape plan
  Make a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year.
• Test smoke alarms
  Test smoke alarms at least once a month and replace batteries once a year or when the alarm “chirps” to tell you the battery is low. Replace any smoke alarm that is more than ten years old.

Call Us!

When your home or business in Kamuela has fire damage, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Will I Know My Water Damage Is Completely Dried in Lahaina?

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Maui. Key Words:

Lahaina locals and businesses need to know about our drying process!

Aloha! Most of the surfaces in homes and businesses are porous, so when they are exposed to water, the water can seep into them. Although these surfaces may be dry to the touch, they may retain moisture, which, left untreated, can cause the materials to break down, warp, or cause mold damage.

Drying and Dehumidification Process

Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the number of air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the area. We also monitor and document the drying process to ensure the damage is dried thoroughly. Here is some additional information from our website about our drying process.

Monitor Floor and Walls

We check the moisture levels to monitor the drying process. 

• Monitor Floors
• Monitor Walls

Drying Equipment

• Industrial-grade dehumidifiers help prevent secondary water damage like swelling and warping floors, walls, and furniture
• High-speed air movers create airflow across walls, carpets, pads, and furniture, accelerating moisture evaporation

Call Us Today!

When your business in Lahaina has water damage, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We'll restore your damage "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Is Your Business in Hilo Ready for Flooding?

11/29/2022 (Permalink)

We restore commercial storm damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui respond to commercial storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hilo. With all the rain that Hawaii County gets, it is always good to be prepared in the event of flooding. Here is a list of things you can do to prepare your property before a flood from the County of Hawaii's website:

KNOW YOUR FLOOD HAZARD

• Is your property located within a floodplain?  Find out more (HERE)

INSURE YOUR PROPERTY FOR YOUR FLOOD HAZARD

• Ask your insurance agent if you are covered for flood damage
• Renters should buy flood insurance for their contents
• Take advantage of a low-cost Preferred Risk Policy

PROTECT PEOPLE FROM THE HAZARD

• Turn around, don't drown.
• Know the flood warning signals.
• Designate a place where your family can meet after an evacuation order is issued.

CHECKLIST - BEFORE A FLOOD 

• Keep an emergency kit with supplies and materials
• Determine if your property is located in an area subject to flooding
• Purchase flood insurance on your property
• Maintain gulches, ditches, and pipes by keeping them free of obstructions from debris
• Protect your property from flooding and wind damage
• Meet permitting requirements

Call Us Today!

When your business in Hilo has water or storm damage, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We'll restore your property damage "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Storm Evacuation Tips for Kailua-Kona Pets?

11/21/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! If you have pets in Kailua-Kona, be sure to include them in your emergency evacuation plan. Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui offer these pet safety tips for situations when you need to evacuate:

• Make sure your pets are included in your family’s evacuation plan
• Build an evacuation kit for each pet in your household
• Ensure each kit is a size and weight that can be quickly loaded into a vehicle when packing to evacuate.

Include supplies for your pet in your emergency kit or assemble an emergency kit for your pet. Here are some pet emergency kit tips from the American Red Cross:

• Sturdy leashes and harnesses
• Food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter/pan, and a manual can opener
• Medications and copies of medical records
• A first-aid kit
• Current photos of you with your pet(s) in case they get lost
• Information on feeding schedules, medical conditions, behavior problems, and the name and number of your veterinarian in case you have to foster or board your pets
• Pet beds and toys, if easily transportable

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Kailua-Kona has storm damage, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire Safety Tips for Hawi Babysitters?

11/15/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! If you use babysitters in Hawi, you will want to ensure they know how to respond in the event of a fire. Our teams in Hawaii and Maui offer these babysitting tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Show the babysitter your home escape plan and make sure the babysitter understands:

• There are two ways out of every room
• Where the outdoor meeting place is located
• The fire department or emergency phone number
• The address of the home
• How to unlock all doors and windows
• Keeps your child at least three feet away from the stove
• Keeps your child at least three feet away from the microwave oven
• Never leave the room while cooking
• Keeps anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop
• Keeps pets off surfaces and countertops
• Get out of the home quickly with your child to safety when the smoke alarm sounds
• Use the second way out if smoke is in the way
• Get low and go under the smoke to the exit if an escape must be made through smoke
• Store matches and lighters out of your child’s reach
• Your babysitter should not use candles
• Make sure your babysitter keeps a three-foot “kid-free zone” around space heaters

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Hawi has fire damage, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Are Some of the Signs of Water Damage in Kamuela?

11/8/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui respond to water damage emergencies in Kamuela every year. Here are some of the ways to tell if you have water damage in your home or workplace:

• Dark or wet spots on the walls or ceiling
• Wet areas or water pooling on the floor
• Flaking, cracking, or bubbling paint or drywall
• Hearing the sound of running water that you can’t place
• Hearing the sound of dripping water that you can’t locate
• Visible dripping water you can see but dripping where it should not be
• Significant increase in your water bill for no known reason
• Strong, damp, musky odors
• Visible mold growing 

Wet areas or water pooling on the floor

If you notice water on your floor with nothing to attribute it to, you probably have hidden water damage.

Dark or wet spots on the walls or ceiling

Look for discoloration on your walls or ceiling inside and outside your home.

Flaking, cracking, or bubbling paint or drywall

Water seeping behind a wall will cause this to happen.

Visible dripping water you can see but dripping where it should not be

If you see any signs of water leaks, it may be a symptom of a bigger problem somewhere in your plumbing systems.

• Dark or wet spots on the walls or ceiling
• Wet areas or water pooling on the floor
• Flaking, cracking, or bubbling paint or drywall
• Hearing the sound of running water that you can’t place
• Hearing the sound of dripping water that you can’t locate
• Visible dripping water you can see but dripping where it should not be
• Significant increase in your water bill for no known reason
• Strong, damp, musky odors
• Visible mold growing 

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business in Kamuela needs water damage cleanup and restoration services, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Is Your Business Ready for the Rainy Season in Kailua-Kona?

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

We restore commercial storm damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui respond to commercial storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day, every day in Kailua-Kona. Here are some tips for preventing water intrusion from the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety to prepare your building for winter storms:

Your team needs to maintain the roof drains and gutters on your properties. 

Low slope (flat) roofs 

• Inspect roof and repair leaks before the winter season 
• Remove all debris and other items from roof and roof drainage systems that prevent drainage of water from the roof during the melting process  
• Check that all flashing and seals are flush and secure

Steep slope roofs

• Inspect your roof and repair leaks before the winter season 
• Secure loose shingles
• Check roof-edge waterproofing and seal to prevent potential drafts
• Add extra insulation in your attic or surrounding areas 

Gutters 

• Inspect gutters and ensure they are secured to the building. Replace any missing gutter fasteners.  
• Clean gutters and interior downspouts thoroughly, removing all debris and unclogging drains 
• Test gutters and downspouts to be sure water does not back up. This can be done by using a hose. 
• Check downspouts to ensure they divert water away from the foundation

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business or home in Kailua Kona needs storm damage cleanup and restoration services, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can I Protect My Home in Lahaina from Storm Damage?

10/24/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! Our teams in Maui and Hawaii respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Lahaina. Our rainy season is about to begin, so here are some tips for preventing water intrusion into your homes from the Insurance Information Institute to keep your home protected from unwanted water:

 Inspect and Repair Your Home’s Exterior

You can prevent water from entering your home by inspecting your home’s exterior for any place where water can enter the home and making repairs as needed.

• Caulk and seal windows
• Inspect the roof for missing and aging shingles
• Check your rain gutters and remove any debris that may be clogging them
• Check your downspouts and clear any clogs and make sure they are draining away from the house
• Gutter guards are an excellent way to prevent clogs and water intrusion into the house
• Check your sprinkler systems and make sure they are not spraying water into the structure and that water is not pooling around the home’s foundation
• Make sure water drains away from the building.Water is invasive and will quickly find its way into a structure when water is allowed to pool around the foundation. Pooling water may enter the foundation wall through cracks.

Call Us Today!

When your home or business in Lahaina needs storm damage cleanup and restoration services, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can I Prevent a Cooking Fire Hilo?

10/17/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the United States. Most cooking fires in the home involve the kitchen stove. Our teams in Hawaii and Maui respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hilo and offer these tips from the NFPA for cooking safely:

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for a short time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking
• Keep anything that can catch fire (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains) away from your stovetop

Check smoke detectors every month and make sure they are operating correctly, and ensure you have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen and that all adults in the home know how to use it.

Call Us Today!

When your Hilo home or business needs fire damage cleanup and restoration services, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Odor Removal and Sanitizing Services for Water Damage in Kamuela?

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

We clean and restore water damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! When your home in Kamuela has water damage, our teams in Hawaii and Maui follow a comprehensive, six-step process for returning your water-damaged property to preloss conditions. After we have extracted the water and dried the area, we clean, sanitize, and deodorize everything exposed to the water. Here is some information from our website describing these processes:

Contents Restoration

We pretest every item before cleaning to ensure we use the most effective cleaning method.

•  Wet Cleaning
•  Dry Cleaning
•  Spray and Wipe
•  Foam Cleaning
•  Abrasive Cleaning
•  Immersion Cleaning

Odor Removal and Deodorization

We identify and eliminate offensive odors. Our technical expertise, industrial-grade air scrubbers, and fogging equipment go beyond simply masking odors and other shortcuts that don’t work when your odor problem is severe or persistent.

•  Odor Removal and Deodorization
•  Air Scrubbers and Fogging Equipment

Sanitizing Treatments

When required, we use antimicrobial, antibacterial, or disinfectant treatments to clean your property.

•  Antimicrobial and Antibacterial Treatments
•  Sanitizing and Disinfectant Treatments

Disposal

We will remove and dispose of damaged materials with guidance from you and your insurance adjuster.

•  Properly Dispose of Refuse

Call Us Today!

When your Kamuela home or commercial business needs water damage cleanup and restoration services, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui can help. Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Microwave Fire in Kailua-Kona Home?

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® when you need fire damage cleanup and restoration services. Kailua-Kona locals can rest easy knowing they are choosing a company with over twenty years of fire damage restoration experience!

Microwave ovens make it easy to reheat food or quickly defrost dinner. Here are some microwave safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• PURCHASE a microwave oven that is listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Make sure to complete and return the product registration card. This way, the manufacturer can reach you if there is a recall of the product.
• PLUG the microwave oven directly into the wall outlet — never use an extension cord
• MAKE sure the microwave oven is at a safe height, within easy reach of all users
• OPEN food slowly, away from the face. Hot steam or the food itself can cause burns.
• FOOD heats unevenly in microwave ovens. Stir and test before eating or giving to children.
• NEVER heat a baby bottle in the microwave. Since a microwave oven heats unevenly, it can create hot pockets, leading to burns. Warm a bottle in a bowl of warm water, not hot or boiling, or by running it under the tap.

Call Us Today!

When your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business needs fire damage cleanup and restoration services, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui can help. Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Crime Scene Cleanup Services in Lahaina?

9/27/2022 (Permalink)

We provide crime and accident cleanup services on the islands of Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! When you need help cleaning a crime or accident scene in Lahaina, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® When a car accident happened in my front yard, there was blood, glass, and debris everywhere. The police and ambulance came, and after they completed their investigation, there was a big mess that needed to be cleared to make my yard safe again.

My insurance adjuster told me to call the local team in Hawaii and Maui, and I’m glad I did. Trauma and crime scenes leave behind blood and other biohazardous contaminants and materials that can cause serious illness.

Our technicians have the training, equipment, and protective gear to clean and restore accident and crime scenes safely. Crime scene investigations leave behind fingerprint and evidence-gathering chemicals that are difficult to remove without the right cleaning agents. Our technicians follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and protocols.

 Crime Scene and Trauma Cleaning Services

• Fingerprint powder and evidence-gathering chemicals
• Tear gas and pepper spray residues
• Fire extinguisher residue
• Blood, bodily fluids, and tissue remnants

Call Us!

When your Lahaina home or business needs crime scene or accident cleanup and restoration services, our local teams in Hawaii and Maui can help. Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Is the Process for Remediating Commercial Mold Damage in Kailua-Kona?

9/20/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in mold removal services on Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Kailua-Kona businesses can trust our teams in Hawaii and Maui to restore mold damage quickly and efficiently. Every situation is different, but we follow this comprehensive process for every mold remediation job:

1. Emergency Contact

We’ll ask you questions to determine the necessary equipment and resources.

2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

We follow local and state laws regarding inspection and documentation based on your unique situation.

3. Mold Containment

We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to keep the mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

4. Air Filtration

We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

We use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

6. Cleaning Contents

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

7. Restoration

Restoration may involve minor or major repairs, requiring the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a business. 

Call Us Today!

When your business or home in Kailua-Kona has mold damage, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Home Fire Causes Smoke and Soot Damage in Hilo?

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

We restore black water contamination 24-hours a day on Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Hilo locals can rest assured that our teams in Hawaii and Maui have the specialized training to restore smoke and soot damage quickly and efficiently. We have been cleaning and restoring fire-damaged belongings for over twenty years! Here are some descriptions of the cleaning methods and technologies we use to clean fire-damaged contents more effectively:

ESPORTA Washing System

We use the ESPORTA washing system to clean soft contents and textiles impacted by heavy smoke and soot damage. This allows us to clean and process soft contents in-house rather than sending them to a cleaner.

Pretesting

We pre-test all belongings and contents to determine what items are salvageable and may use one or more of these cleaning methods as required:

• Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean before wet cleaning
• Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
• Spray and Wipe - effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
• Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

Call Us Today!

When your home or business is exposed to soot and smoke and requires professional care, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® We clean and restore fire damage for Hilo locals “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Black Water Contamination: Cleanup and Restoration Services in Kailua-Kona?

9/6/2022 (Permalink)

We restore black water contamination 24-hours a day on Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Flood waters can carry untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes that can cause illness if ingested. Kailua-Kona locals can rest assured that our teams in Hawaii and Maui have the specialized training and certifications to restore areas contaminated by black water quickly and efficiently.

Category 3: “Black Water”

This water category is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for black water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• It may contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Category 2: “Gray Water”

• It may contain bacteria and viruses
• It can quickly degrade into category three if left untreated

Category 1: “Clean Water”

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated, it can degrade into category two or three

Call Us Today!

When you have exposure to black water or have any water damage emergency in your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Outdoor Electrical Safety Tips for Kailua-Kona Locals?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in fire damage restoration on Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Kailua-Kona locals spend lots of time outdoors and use lighting to improve the look and safety of their homes and businesses. Electrical fires are one of the top three causes of fire damage in the United States. Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui offer these electrical safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to help prevent electrical fires outdoors:

Outside Electrical Work

• Have a qualified electrician do all electrical work
• To prevent an electrical shock, make sure all your outside electrical receptacles are ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected
• Have a professional tree cutting service trim any branches that might fall into electric wiring 

Equipment Safety

• Use lighting and power tools that are listed by a qualified test laboratory and make sure they are made for outdoor use
• Store your electrical tools indoors
• Keep electric tools away from children
• Keep the area around your electric meter and other electrical equipment clean
• Check lighting and extension cords for damage before using. Replace any damaged cords right away
• Use extension cords listed by a qualified test laboratory and marked for outdoor use
• Extension cords are not meant for long-term use

Call Us Today!

When you have fire damage in your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Is the Process for Restoring Water Damage in Wailuku?

8/23/2022 (Permalink)

We restore mold damage on Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Wailuku locals can rely on us to restore water damage “Like it never even happened.” Our teams in Hawaii and Maui follow this comprehensive process for every residential and commercial water damage restoration:

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property. This helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments, remove odors, and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

Water damage can happen at any time. When you have a water damage emergency in your Wailuku home or commercial business, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What is the Process For Remediating Mold in Captain Cook?

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

We restore mold damage on Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Captain Cook locals can rely on us to restore mold problems quickly and efficiently. Our teams in Hawaii and Maui are certified in Applied Microbial Remediation by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. We follow this comprehensive process for every residential and commercial restoration:

1. Emergency Contact

We’ll ask you questions to determine the necessary equipment and resources.

2. Inspection and Mold Damage Assessment

We follow local and state laws regarding inspection and documentation based on your unique situation.

3. Mold Containment

We may use advanced containment procedures like negative air chambers to isolate the contaminated area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to prevent mold spores from spreading during the cleanup process.

4. Air Filtration

We utilize powerful “air scrubbers” and HEPA vacuums to prevent the spread of these mold spores while the mold remediation is in process.

5. Removing Mold and Mold-Infested Materials

We use antifungal and antimicrobial treatments to eliminate mold colonies and to help prevent new colonies from forming. Removing and disposing of mold-infested porous materials may be necessary to remediate heavy mold growth.

6. Cleaning Contents

We clean your furniture, decorative items, curtains, and other restorable items affected by mold. We remove odors and deodorization using fogging equipment.

7. Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs or require the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business. 

Call Us Today!

Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to restore residential and commercial mold damage in Captain Cook “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips For Hilo Families?

8/5/2022 (Permalink)

We restore commercial flooding damage on Maui.

Aloha! Are your prepared in the event a hurricane hits Hilo? Our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help ® when you have storm damage. Here are some tips from the State of Hawaii Emergency Management Agency for preparing for a hurricane:

• Store emergency supplies in a sturdy kit such as a rolling cooler
• Store one gallon of water per person per day for at least 14 days
• Store high-calorie, shelf-stable food in a cool, dry place
• A battery-operated radiowill often work when other methods of communication are not available

• If you are trapped by debris after a storm or earthquake, a whistle could save your life

• Hygiene and cleanlinessitems such as hand sanitizer, sanitary wipes, toilet paper, and bags to contain waste

• If you have a condition requiring medication, make sure to stock extra with your emergency supplies. A hard copy of any prescriptions may also help if you need to resupply after a disaster. If your medication requires refrigeration, consider purchasing a generator or storing a supply of ice packs and a cooler for use if the power goes out.

Call Us Today!

Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to restore residential and commercial storm damage in Hilo “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flash Flooding From Hurricane Damages Wailuku Business?

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

We restore commercial flooding damage on Maui.

Aloha! When your Wailuku commercial business floods during a storm, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® We have over twenty years of experience restoring businesses damaged by flooding. Here are some tips from the Maui County website for staying safe during a flash flood or hurricane:

1. Flash flooding may still occur even when sunny due to rain clouds higher up in the mountains
2. Newer editions of guidebooks have many safety messages. Read and abide by them.
3. River rocks can be very slippery. Stay away from cliff edges. Be aware of falling rocks.
4. Better to stay put than risk hiking in darkness
5. Hawaii’s streams may be contaminated with leptospirosis

When a hurricane or tropical storm warning is issued:

• Follow instructions issued by civil defense
• Leave immediately if ordered to do so
• Complete preparation activities, such as boarding up windows and storing loose objects
• Wedge sliding glass doors to prevent their lifting from their tracks
• Turn up your refrigerator to maximum cold and don’t open it unless necessary
• Evacuate areas that might be affected by storm surge flooding
• If evacuating, leave early and leave food and water for pets (shelters will not take them)
• Notify neighbors and a family member outside of the warned area of your evacuation plans
• Use the phone only for emergencies

Call Us Today!

Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have the training, equipment, and experience to restore commercial and residential storm damage in Wailuku “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Happy Mold Remediation Customers in Kailua-Kona?

7/27/2022 (Permalink)

We restore mold damage in Hawaii and Maui!

Aloha! When you have a mold problem in your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® We have been remediating mold damage for over twenty years! Here is a recent Google review from one of our happy mold remediation customers that says it all:

“I highly recommend SERVPRO Hawaii for all your mold issues. From doing the inspection to completing the remedy! David was outstanding! His promptness of returning calls, e-mails and getting the job done on time was a real plus in this market where everyone is so busy! His crew did an amazing job! A big bonus is having a great office team led by Tammy! We will use them in the future for all our mold issues and highly recommend you do too!” Bonnie Sanchez

Services: Water damage-related pest control, Mold inspection, Mold damage restoration, Mold cleaning Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value

When you discover mold growing in your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business, it is often a symptom of hidden water damage. We will address any excess moisture issues during the remediation process to discourage the mold from returning after the removal process is complete.

Call Us Today!

Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have the training, equipment, and experience to restore mold damage quickly and efficiently. Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

How Can I Keep My Water Heater From Leaking in Kamuela?

7/21/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have restored water damage in Kamuela for over twenty years. Water heaters require professional maintenance to keep them running in top condition. Here is some information on water heater maintenance from the National Board of Pressure Vessel Inspectors:

Hire a qualified service professional to:

• Burners should be cleaned once a year for gas and oil-fired water heaters. Have the service professional inspect flues and vents for cracks or loose connections that could leak deadly exhaust gases.
   
• Have a qualified plumber replace your anode rod once every two to five years
   
• The service life of a temperature and pressure (T & P) valve is usually three years. Even if a T & P valve looks fine from the outside, manufacturers recommend they be removed and visually inspected for accumulations of corrosion deposits
• Call a qualified plumber if your water tank is leaking
  • If the T & P valve is discharging water or steam, the ONLY safe intervention is to remove the heat source by cutting off its fuel, if you can. For an electric heater, trip the circuit breaker; for a gas heater, shut off the gas.
  • If your water heater overheats, call a qualified plumber and allow the water heater to cool naturally. Never try to relieve the pressure yourself. Never add cool water to the tank; never try to cool it by spraying it with a hose. 

Call Us Today!

When your Kamuela home or commercial business has a water damage emergency, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If My Home Floods During a Storm in Waikoloa?

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Do you know how to minimize water damage if your home floods during a storm? Our teams in Hawaii and Maui restore storm damage throughout the year. Waikoloa locals can take these steps while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don't use television or other household appliances
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When your Waikoloa home or commercial business has a storm damage emergency, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Leaking In-Ground Sprinkler System in Kailua-Kona Home?

7/12/2022 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui respond to water damage emergencies throughout the year in Kailua-Kona. Leaking in-ground sprinkler systems can damage your home’s foundation and waste thousands of gallons of water each month. Here are some tips for finding leaks in your sprinkler system:

• Find your main sprinkler system valve and shut it off
• Once you shut off the sprinkler system valve, look at the low flow indicator on your water meter. If it keeps moving, the water leak is inside your home.
• If the low flow indicator stops moving, the leak is in your main sprinkler system pipe
• To check for visible irrigation system leaks, turn off your sprinkler system valve and wait at least two minutes. This allows the main sprinkler system pipe to refill with water.
• Go to your controller and turn on the zone. Go to the zone you turned on and listen for water running.
• Do you see water bubbling up from the ground? Are there any wet spots or pooling of water?
• Look for broken sprinkler heads in the zone. If water is not hitting the target area or flowing out of the sprinkler heads, you will need to replace the sprinkler heads.
• Repeat this process for each zone in your irrigation system
• Call a certified irrigation contractor if you can’t fix the problem by replacing the sprinkler heads

Call Us!

When your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business has water damage, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fireworks-Free Options for Fourth of July Celebration for Lahaina Families?

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have been restoring fire damage for over twenty years. We wish everyone a happy Fourth of July celebration. If you’re looking for a fun way to celebrate the Fourth of July on Maui, there will be lots of fun activities on July 4^th when the Town of Lahaina has its afternoon and evening block party and a fireworks display at 8 pm.

Here are some safe options for celebrating Independence Day in Lahaina without the use of fireworks from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Use glow sticks, they glow in the dark and are a safe alternative to a sparkler. Fun for all ages.
• Loud and proud. Noisemakers are sure to make a statement. They can be found at local party supply stores or create your own.
• Outdoor movie night. Set up a screen and projector. Don’t forget the bug spray!
• Red, white, and blue silly string - fun for all ages
• Make a patriotic craft with the family
• Throw a birthday party for the USA, and don’t forget the cake

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business has fire damage, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tips for Preventing Water Damage for Kamuela Businesses?

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to commercial water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have over twenty years of experience restoring commercial water damage in damage in Kamuela. Here are some tips from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety  for protecting your business from water damage:

Inspect and clean the roof drainage system

Do this at least twice a year, ideally during spring and fall. This includes all gutters, interior drains, and scuppers.

Remove debris

• Remove loose objects and accumulated debris—including anything left by contractors—from the roof that could end up in the drainage system
• Also, check under and around all roof-mounted equipment, satellite dishes, antennas, and solar panels for debris that could disrupt the drainage system’s water flow or cause ponding

Inspect roof drains

Check for, and repair cracks around roof drains.

Re-check drainage systems

• After severe weather, check all drainage systems for leaks and ensure they are properly secured and operating
• When re-roofing, ensure that all drains, scuppers, and gutters are returned to their original operating conditions

Check for water

Check for long-term standing water in gutters and correct any blockages. If there are no blockages but standing water still occurs, ensure the gutter is properly sloped to the downspout.

Call Us Today!

When your Kamuela business or home has a water or storm damage emergency, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Rain Gardens Prevent Stormwater Flooding and Damage in Kailua-Kona?

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have been restoring storm damage in Kailua-Kona for over twenty years.

Rain Gardens are a popular method for capturing storm and rainwater runoff. These deliberately built depressions are planted with vegetation that allows the stormwater to collect, settle and filter into the ground. According to the Hui o Ko’olaupoko website:

• Rain gardens have the ability to reduce the amount of pollution entering streams and the ocean by intercepting stormwater
• Rain gardens are ‘designed with nature’ as they mimic natural processes by treating and infiltrating stormwater into the ground and evaporating it back into the air, much like undeveloped areas 
• These flat-bottomed depressions are planted with native vegetation to capture excess stormwater from rooftops, driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, or streets
• Rain gardens are a great way to protect stream and ocean health from residential pollution

Call Us!

Storms can occur at any time of the year in Hawaii. You never know when the next big storm will strike and cause flooding. When your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business has a storm damage emergency, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your storm damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Is Peeling Paint a Sign of Hidden Water Damage in Hilo?

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have been restoring water damage for Hilo locals and businesses for over twenty years. Learning the symptoms of water damage can help find minor problems before they become significant issues. Here are some of the signs that you have water damage.

Wet areas or water pooling on the floor

If you notice water on your floor with nothing to attribute it to, you probably have hidden water damage.

Dark or wet spots on the walls or ceiling

Look for discoloration on your walls or ceiling both inside and outside your home.

Flaking, cracking, or bubbling paint or drywall

Water seeping behind a wall will cause this to happen.

Visible dripping water you can see but dripping where it should not be

If you see any signs of water leaks, it may be a symptom of a bigger problem somewhere in your plumbing systems.

Other signs include:

• Significant increase in your water bill for no known reason
• Strong, damp, musky odors
• Visible mold growing 
• Hearing the sound of running water that you can't place
• Hearing the sound of dripping water that you can't locate

Call Us!

When your Hilo home or commercial business has a water damage emergency, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® We'll restore your water damage in Hilo "Like it never even happened." Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Smoke Odor Removal Equipment Used in Fire Restorations in Lahaina?

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

We use many methods to remove smoke odor and residue in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui use advanced equipment and techniques to restore properties damaged by smoke in Lahaina, including:

Air Scrubber or Filter

• Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC) air scrubber, or a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) air purifier can capture larger smoke molecules. There will still be some residual odor from smaller molecules or surface residues.

Ozone Generator

• An ozone generator is a fast and highly effective smoke odor restoration method. These machines emit ozone, which follows the same paths through the air as smoke and oxidizes any residual traces in the air or on surfaces.

Thermal Fogging

• Thermal fogging is an intensive treatment involving fogging machines. After residents evacuate, smoke cleaning professionals fill a structure with petroleum distillates that neutralize odors and ventilate the area.

Hydroxyl Generator

• A hydroxyl generator is a slower and gentler alternative to ozone. These machines rely on ultraviolet light to generate hydroxyl radicals that eliminate smoke odors. It will take about three to five days of continuous operation to achieve the same results as a single ozone treatment.

Vapor Modification

• Vapor modification is another odor elimination method that relies on aromatic compounds and a blower or fan to neutralize smoke odor

Call Us Today!

When your Lahaina home or commercial business needs smoke and fire damage restoration services, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Vacation Rental Safety Tips for Kailua-Kona?

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui respond to fire damage emergencies in Kailua-Kona every year, and some involve vacation rentals. If you plan to book a peer-to-peer or vacation rental by owner, it is important to know the fire safety standards for that area. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association for things to check out before you book:

• Working smoke alarms are in every sleeping room and outside every room
• Portable fire extinguishers are in the home and are easy to reach
• Working carbon monoxide alarms are outside each separate sleeping area
• The owner has posted a floor plan. It notes all escape routes and exits and provides emergency contact information.
• Everyone knows the address of the home
• Everyone staying in the home knows two ways out of every room and how to escape in an emergency
• All doors and windows that lead outside can be opened
• An outside meeting place has been chosen a safe distance away from the home
• Everyone knows how to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number from a cell phone from outside
• All pathways are free and clear of tripping hazards
• Electrical outlets are free from multiple cords and adaptors
• The stovetop is clear. Anything that can catch fire is not near the stovetop, such as curtains and towels.

Call Us!

When your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business needs fire damage restoration services, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Preventative Maintenance Services for Kamuela Businesses?

5/17/2022 (Permalink)

We provide many specialty deep cleaning services in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Do you know that our teams in Hawaii and Maui provide deep cleaning services for Kamuela businesses? We offer a full range of commercial deep cleaning services that go beyond what a standard janitorial service can do. Cleaning products can build up over time, leaving floors and furnishings looking old and dull.

Unlike traditional cleaning services, our restoration technicians have the training, experience, and equipment to deep clean your business from top to bottom and restore the shine to your workplace. We can locate and neutralize offensive odors, deep clean carpets, upholstered furniture, drapes and blinds, and light fixtures to keep them looking their best while protecting your investment.

When cleaning carpets and upholstery, we will use some or all of the following cleaning methods:

• Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive method for short piled carpets.
• Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method for all carpet types.
• Deluxe Precondition and Rinse: Helps restore deeply soiled areas.
• Showcase Premier Cleaning: The most thorough cleaning method in the industry.
• Dry Cleaning: When color-fastness is an issue.

 Call Us Today!

When your Kamuela commercial business or home starts to look dingy or tired, and you need deep cleaning and deodorizing services, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Strong Winds Causing Property Damage in Hilo?

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have over twenty years of experience restoring properties damaged by strong winds and storms in Hilo. Wind damage can be minimized by securing objects outside of the house. Here are some examples of ways to minimize wind damage from the Federal Emergency Management Agency:

Secure Objects Outside the Home

Loose shingles, your dog’s house, trash cans, and sports equipment can be picked up by the wind and cause damage to your home. Secure outdoor objects like furniture, gutters, and downspouts.

Trim or Remove Dead, Damaged, or Rotting Trees and Limbs

High winds can cause trees and branches to fall. Make sure any damaged trees on the property are trimmed or removed regularly. Your home should be at least a full-grown tree’s height away from the base of any tree, usually about 40 feet away.

Fortify Your Roof

Your roof is your first line of defense in a high wind event. Re-adhere any loose shingles and consider impact-resistant shingles when installing a roof. Install roof strappings to anchor the roof framing to the wall framings so the wind can’t lift your roof off your house.

Call Us!

When your Hilo home or commercial business needs storm damage restoration services, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Contaminated Water from Storm Runoff in Kamuela?

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

We are certified to restore homes compromised by contaminated water in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Do you know that flooding is one of the top causes of water damage in the Hawaiian Islands? Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have over twenty years of experience mitigating and restoring water damage in Kamuela. Here are the three classifications of water damage we restore:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• If left untreated can degrade into a category two or three

Category 2: "Gray Water"

• It may contain bacteria and viruses
• It can quickly degrade into category three if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category three water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Call Us Today!

When your Kamuela home or commercial business needs water damage restoration services, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Air Duct and HVAC Cleaning Services in Kailua-Kona?

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

We inspect and clean HVAC systems in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Have you noticed any changes in the efficiency of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system? Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have over twenty years of experience cleaning HVAC systems in Kailua-Kona. If your HVAC system has not been serviced lately, it may be circulating any of the following contaminants:

• Dust
• Pollen
• Odors
• Dirt and debris
• Other contaminants

There are many benefits to servicing your HVAC unit, including:

• Helps to restore peak energy efficiency
• May help to eliminate offensive odors
• Helps reduce the potential for mold growth

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends the cleaning of HVAC systems when:

• There is substantial visible mold growth inside the ducts or on other components of your heating and cooling system
• If you have insulated air ducts and the insulation gets wet or moldy, it cannot be effectively cleaned and should be removed and replaced
• Ducts are infested with vermin (e.g., rodents or insects)
• Ducts are clogged with excessive amounts of dust and debris
• Particles are being released into the home from your supply registers

Call Us Today!

When your Kailua-Kona home or commercial business needs HVAC inspection, cleaning, or routine maintenance services, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Mold Outbreak in Waikoloa Business?

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

We remediate mold problems for businesses in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our teams in Hawaii and Maui have over twenty years of experience mitigating and restoring mold damage for Waikoloa businesses and homes. Mold is especially prevalent in the Hawaiian Islands due to the moist climate, and a mold outbreak may also be a symptom of a water leak or water damage. Here are some tips from our website for things you can do and should not do while waiting for help to arrive:

Important Facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48 to 72 hours
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans
• Contact us for mold remediation services

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold

Call Us Today!

If you ever discover mold damage in your Waikoloa home or commercial business, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Tsunami Preparedness and Safety Information for Hilo?

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Do you know that Hawaii is one of the most unique locations in the world for studying tsunami effects? According to the International Tsunami Information Center, there have been 135 confirmed tsunamis recorded since 1812, and 60 percent of them have occurred in Hilo. Our teams in Hawaii and Maui respond to storm damage emergencies every year and offer this information on tsunami preparedness and safety from the National Weather Service:

Local Earthquake – May cause you to fall or have difficulty standing. This is a natural tsunami warning. Initially, protect yourself from earthquake effects. When the shaking stops, leave the evacuation zones immediately.

Urgent Tsunami Warning – Possible tsunami generated by a significant earthquake in local waters. Sirens will sound. Turn on the radio. If an urgent tsunami warning is announced, leave the evacuation zones immediately.

Tsunami Watch – A significant earthquake has occurred. Tsunami approach is not confirmed but is possible. No siren sounding. Prepare for a possible upgrade to a tsunami warning.

Tsunami Warning – Tsunami approach confirmed. Sirens will sound. Monitor the radio. Be prepared when evacuation is advised or ordered by civil defense.

Tsunami Evacuation - Sirens will sound. Turn on the radio. Those in tsunami evacuation zones must begin evacuation when the order is issued by civil defense.

Call Us Today!

If you have storm damage in your Hilo home or commercial business, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips for Hilo Homes?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui restore have been restoring fire damage for Hilo locals and businesses for over twenty years. Smoke alarms are highly beneficial for alerting a household early so they can get out fast. Here are some smoke alarms safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Smoke Alarm Safety

• A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home. 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound. 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions yet mitigate false alarms
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us Today!

You never know if you will need help restoring fire damage in your Hilo home or commercial business, but if you do, our teams in Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooding in Hana?

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

We clean and restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Hana Flood?

Aloha! Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui restore storm damage throughout the year. The County of Maui’s website contains helpful information on road closure notifications, and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency’s (HI-EMA) website includes valuable information about flooding safety.

Here are some important steps you can take.

• During heavy rains or human-made structure failures such as a dam breach, flash flooding can occur quickly and without warning
• Be prepared to evacuate and move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to act.
• Do not cross fast-flowing water in your vehicle or on foot – Turn around, do not drown!

• Contact your property/casualty agent or broker about flood insurance, which is offered through the National Flood Insurance Program

 Make a Plan

• Plan escape routes – ensure all family members know where to go and how to get out
• Meeting place – choose a physical location to meet if communication between family members is down
• Family communication – identify a family member who lives out-of-state who can notify everyone when they are safe

Call Us Today!

Heavy rain and flooding are dangerous for everyone involved. If you have storm damage in your Hana home or commercial business, call our local teams in Hawaii and Maui today at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hoarding Cleanup and Restoration Services in Kamuela?

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

We clean and restore hoarding scenes in Hawaii and Maui.

Hoarding in Kamuela Home?

Aloha! Hoarding scenes are dangerous and require professional services to restore the damage. Our local teams in Hawaii and Maui can help. Here is some information from the National Fire Protection Association about hoarding:

What is hoarding?

Hoarding is defined as collecting or keeping large amounts of various items in the home due to strong urges to save them or distress experienced when discarding them. Many rooms in the home are so filled with possessions that residents can no longer use the rooms as designed. The home is so overloaded with things that everyday living is compromised.

Why is hoarding an issue for the fire service?

• Hoarding can be a fire hazard, and many occupants die in fires in these homes. Often, blocked exits prevent escape from the house. In addition, many people who are hoarding are injured when they trip over things or when materials fall on them.
• Responding firefighters can be put at risk due to obstructed exits, falling objects, and excessive fire loading that can lead to collapse. Hoarding makes fighting fires and searching for occupants far more difficult.
• Those living adjacent to an occupied structure can be quickly affected when a fire occurs due to excessive smoke and fire conditions.

Call Us!

Hoarding scenes can be dangerous for everyone involved. If you have a hoarding situation in Kamuela and need cleanup services, call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

What Can I Do If I Find Mold In My Kailua-Kona Business?

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

We mitigate and remediate mold outbreaks in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Kailua-Kona businesses and locals face the challenge of living in a region where mold is a constant battle. Microscopic mold spores float around in the Earth’s atmosphere, waiting for the perfect warm and moist conditions. Once these conditions present themselves, mold will spread quickly through a commercial building. First, we will inspect and locate the source of the excess moisture and make repairs to minimize the potential for the mold to return.

Here are some tips from our website on what to do, and not to do, while waiting for help to arrive:

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans
• Contact us at 808-329-6560 for mold remediation services

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

We are highly trained and certified:

• Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technician
• Odor Control Technician
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician

We have experience working in all kinds of buildings and workplaces, including:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing and Industrial
• Government/Military

Call Us!

Kailua-Kona commercial businesses and locals can trust us to mitigate and remediate mold problems, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Portable Fireplace Safety Tips for Keauhou?

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Keauhou locals love a good open fire at night. In recent years, ethanol-burning portable fireplaces have become more popular. However, the fuel, device, and open flame can be dangerous. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui offers these ethanol-burning fireplace safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

Fireplace Safety

• A portable ethanol burning fireplace, and the fuel, should only be used by adults
• Clean up any fuel spillage and be sure all liquid has evaporated before lighting the fireplace
• Light the fireplace using a utility lighter or long match
• An adult should always be present when a portable fireplace is burning
• Place the fireplace on a sturdy surface away from table edges
• It’s a good idea to crack a window open for a fresh supply of air
• Never try to move a lit fireplace or one that is still hot
• Don’t pour ethanol fuel in a device that is lit or not completely cool. It may result in a fire or injury.
• Allow the device to cool down for at least 15 minutes before refueling
• Extinguish the flame when you leave the room, home, or go to sleep

Call Us Today!

Keauhou locals and commercial businesses can trust SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Team in Waikoloa?

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in water damage restoration services in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui follows this six-step process when remediating damage in Waikoloa:

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property. This helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Step 6 - Restoration

Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet or may entail major repairs, such as the reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home or business.

Call Us Today!

Waikoloa locals and commercial businesses can rely on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore water damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Emergency Restoration Services in Hilo?

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in residential and commercial restoration services in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! Meet franchise owner Brian Konishi. Brian has been helping Hilo locals, and commercial businesses put their lives back together for many years. Brian worked in the insurance industry for twenty-five years serving as an adjuster and working with policyholders. He brought this wealth of industry knowledge with him when he joined SERVPRO.

 SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring fire and water damage for homeowners and commercial businesses in Hawaii and Maui for over twenty years. We understand the unique challenges that water, fire, and mold damage present in these tropical environments.

We are a family-run business and have extensive experience addressing problems unique to our climate. Our technicians are certified in Applied Microbial Remediation and have years of experience mitigating and restoring mold damage. We are also licensed contractors, so we are uniquely positioned to supervise a full range of reconstruction services when your restoration requires building services.

• Water Damage Restoration
• Fire Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Storm Damage Restoration
• Cleaning Services
• Building Services
• Commercial Services

Call Us Today!

You never know if you will need our restoration services, but if you do, Hilo locals and commercial businesses can rely on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore their property damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Heavy Rain Damage in Lahaina?

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

We are leaders in storm damage restoration services in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! Do you know that Lahaina locals and businesses have been trusting SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore their storm damage for over twenty years? Here is some information from the Institute of Business and Home Safety for protecting your home from heavy rain:

Check wall air conditioners

Internal Drain: If the air conditioning unit has an internal drain, make sure the pipe size is adequate and water is running and flowing freely to handle a high volume of water.

Caulking of Air Conditioning Unit Sleeve: Look for any gaps, cracks, or other damage that indicates improper caulking around the edge of the sleeve to the exterior of the building. This increases vulnerability to water entry.

Orientation: Tilting the air conditioning unit sleeves slightly (two degrees) towards the exterior wall can significantly reduce the water’s entry.

Weather Stripping: Proper weather stripping between the air conditioning unit and the sleeve can reduce the water from entering.

If your home has wall air conditioners

• Ensure the size of internal drain pipe is adequate and water is flowing freely
• Ensure there is proper caulking and weather stripping around the unit
• Ensure unit is installed with a 1/4-inch (two-degree) bubble tilt toward the outside

Call Us!

Lahaina locals and commercial businesses can rely on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore their storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips for Hilo?

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Hilo locals and businesses have relied on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore fire damage for over twenty years! Knowing how to operate a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and minimize the damage when there is a small fire. Here are some fire extinguisher safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
  • Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism
  • Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire
  • Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
  • Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side
• For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle
• Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory
• Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out

Call Us!

Hilo locals and commercial businesses can rely on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore their fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Root-Damaged Drain Pipe in Keauhou?

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in water damage restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been cleaning and restoring water damage for Keauhou locals for over twenty years. We have seen all kinds of water damage, and many times this damage might have been prevented through routine inspection and maintenance. Here are some helpful tips to avoid many types of water damage.

Water Damage Prevention Tips

Here are some tips from the Institute for Business and Home Safety to prevent water damage:

• Never pour grease down the drain
• Plant trees away from lateral drain lines to prevent roots from damaging piping
• If your home’s sewer system is connected to the city’s sewer system, a particular problem for older homes, or if you are located downhill or below street level, contact a plumbing professional to install a backflow prevention assembly into your sewer system

Call a professional if you notice signs of a plumbing problem

• An increased monthly water bill
• Banging pipes
• Rust stains
• Moisture in the walls or on the floor
• Signs of wet soil erosion near the foundation

Call Us Today!

Keauhou locals and commercial businesses can trust the professionals at SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore their water damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Mold Problem in Kamuela Home?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

We remediate mold damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been helping Kamuela locals and businesses mitigate and remediate mold damage for over twenty years. Mold is often a symptom of water damage or excess moisture in the home or building. Our technicians will locate the source of the mold and address the problem to discourage the mold from returning after the remediation process is complete. If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts:

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans
• Contact SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui for mold remediation services

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold

Call Us Today!

Kamuela locals and commercial businesses can count on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore their mold damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Flooded Building in Waikoloa?

1/19/2022 (Permalink)

We restore commercial water damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui responds to commercial water damage emergencies in Waikoloa 24-hours a day, and we typically arrive within four hours of your call. Every minute counts when water floods a floor, as water is invasive and can cause severe damage in a short period of time. Here are some water damage tips from our website on things you can do to minimize the water damage while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don’t leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors
• Don’t use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don’t use television or other household appliances
• Don’t turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us!

Waikoloa commercial businesses and locals can trust SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore commercial water damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Subtropical Cyclone Hits Maui?

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

We restore storm damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Last month, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui responded to storm damage emergencies resulting from the heavy rain brought by the subtropical cyclone, or Kona low. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency issued these warnings for Maui:

Floods are one of the most common hazards in Hawai’i

• Heavy rains can cause structural failures such as a dam breach; flash flooding can occur quickly and without warning
• Be prepared to evacuate and move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to act.
• Do not cross fast-flowing water in your vehicle or on foot – Turn around, do not drown!
• Contact your property/casualty agent or broker about flood insurance, which is offered through the National Flood Insurance Program

Make a Plan

• Plan escape routes – ensure all family members know where to go and how to get out
• Meeting place – choose a physical location to meet if communication between family members is down
• Family communication – identify a family member who lives out-of-state who everyone can notify when they are safe

Pack a 14-day ‘Go-Kit’ for your family

• Change of clothes and sturdy shoes
• 1 gallon of water per person per day
• Non-perishable foods
• Face coverings, gloves, and sanitizer
• First aid kit
• Battery-powered or crank-powered radio
• Flashlight
• Batteries
• Manual can opener
• Hygiene supplies
• Whistle
• Important documents

Call Us!

Maui locals and businesses can rely on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Christmas Tree Disposal Safety Tips for Kailua-Kona?

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

We clean up and restore fire damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! Now that the winter holidays are over, it’s time for Kailua-Kona locals to get rid of the Christmas tree and take down the decorations. There may be options for having your tree recycled after the Christmas holiday, so be sure to check with your waste disposal company or your city website to find out about recycling programs in your area.  SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui offers these after Christmas safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry
• Although Christmas tree fires are not common, when they do occur, they are more likely to be serious
• Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or the garage or placed outside against the home
• Check with your local community to find a recycling program
• Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer

Call Us!

When you have a fire damage emergency, our technicians are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Kailua-Kona locals and businesses can rely on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore the fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Holiday Light Fire in Lahaina?

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has over twenty years of experience restoring fire damage in Lahaina. More fires are reported during the winter months than at any other time of the year, and holiday decorating is a known cause for many of these fires. Here are some holiday decorating tips to ensure you have a happy and safe New Years Eve celebration:

Holiday Decorating and Entertaining Tips

• Be careful with holiday decorations. Choose decorations that are flame resistant or flame retardant.
• Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn
• Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights, so the cords do not get damaged
• Keep decorations away from windows and doors
• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding them.

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency, our technicians are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Lahaina locals and businesses can rely on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore the fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Rain Damage in Keauhou?

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has over twenty years of experience restoring storm damage for Keauhou locals. Water is invasive and can do serious damage in as little as five minutes! We use powerful water extraction equipment and industrial-grade air movers and blowers to get the excess water out of your home quickly. We monitor and document the drying process to make sure the area is restored to normal humidity levels. If your home has damage, we can repair it for you, too. Depending on your unique circumstances, we may use any of the following cleaning methods to restore stormwater-damaged items to pre-damage condition:

• Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean before wet cleaning
• Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
• Spray and Wipe - effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
• Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned 
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

Call Us Today!

December is the wettest month in Keauhou. When you have a storm damage emergency, our technicians are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Locals and business owners can count on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore the storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Holiday Party Fire in Kamuela?

12/14/2021 (Permalink)

Holiday Party Fire in Kamuela?

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring fire damage in Kamuela for many years. More than two out of every five holiday decoration fires happen because decorations are placed too close to a heat source. Here are some tips from the National Fire Protection Association to stay safe while entertaining this holiday season:

Holiday Entertaining

• Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about your home fire escape plan
• Keep children and pets away from lit candles
• Keep matches and lighters up high in a locked cabinet
• Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop
• Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them so young children do not touch them.
• Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Wet cigarette butts with water before discarding them.
• Blow out lit candles when you leave the room or go to bed
• Turn off all light strings and decorations before leaving home or going to bed

Call Us Today!

When you have a fire damage emergency in Kamuela, our technicians are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day. Locals and business owners can rely on SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui to restore fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” We have the equipment, training, and experience to restore any size of fire loss. Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Hidden Water Damage Detection in Waikoloa?

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in water damage restoration in Hawaii and Maui!

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring water damage in Waikoloa for over twenty years. We use advanced technology, like infrared cameras, to detect hidden water leaks behind walls. Here are some examples of the types of technology and equipment we use to help our customers save time and money:

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Recent advances, like infrared cameras, help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

• We use infrared cameras to identify water locations for thorough water removal
• Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

• High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
• Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

Call Us Today!

Our technicians are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day, every day of the year. When you need emergency water restoration services for your Waikoloa home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Water Leak Damage in Makawao Home?

11/29/2021 (Permalink)

We restore water damage 24-hours a day in Maui and Hawaii!

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring water damage in Makawao for years. We use advanced technology, like infrared cameras, to detect hidden water leaks behind walls. Even a small water leak can increase your water bill by ten percent! The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers these helpful tips for detecting water leaks in your home:

Water Leak Detection Tips

• A good method to check for leaks is to examine your winter water use. It’s likely that a family of four has a serious leak problem if its winter water use exceeds 12,000 gallons per month.
• Check your water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, you probably have a leak.
• To check for a toilet bowl leak, place a drop of food coloring in the toilet tank. If the color shows up in the bowl within ten minutes without flushing, you have a leak. 

Call Us Today!

Water damage can happen at any time of the day or night. Our technicians are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day, every day of the year. When you need emergency water restoration services for your Makawao home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

High Customer Satisfaction in Hilo?

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

We take customer satisfaction very seriously in Hawaii and Maui!

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is proud of the reviews we receive from our Hilo customers. In everything we do, we aim for five-star reviews! Here are some recent reviews from  Google:

“The guys were amazing!! We were so thankful for their help. Our basement was flooded, and they explained everything that needed to happen and were super diligent in getting it done. We were super impressed and felt like we were in great hands! I would highly recommend this team. Thank you, Justin, Brian, and team, for helping us out in such a stressful time and making the experience easy. We truly appreciate all you did for us!” Courtney Caso

“Making sure everything was professionally clean after having almost 2ft of water in a space my three young children (all under 9) use as a playroom was critical to me. Justin and his crew were thorough, professional, and efficient with my post-flood remediation concerns, and I now feel comfortable having my small children back in the basement. I highly recommend their team’s SERVPRO service!” Nicholas Taro

Call Us Today!

When you need emergency restoration services for your Hilo home or business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Smoke-Damaged Business in Kailua-Kona?

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

Commercial businesses in Hawaii and Maui rely on us to remove smoke odor.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui invests heavily in specialized equipment to efficiently restore smoke damage in Kailua-Kona. Depending on the type of fuel burned and the severity of the smoke damage, we may use one or a combination of the following types of equipment:

Air Scrubber or Filter

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system (HVAC) air scrubber or a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) air purifier is useful for capturing larger smoke molecules. There will still be some residual odor from smaller molecules or surface residues.

Ozone Generator

This is a fast and highly effective smoke odor restoration method. These machines emit ozone, which follows the same paths through the air as smoke and oxidizes any residual traces in the air or on surfaces.

Thermal Fogging

Thermal fogging is an intensive treatment involving fogging machines. After people evacuate, smoke cleaning professionals fill a structure with petroleum distillates that neutralize odors and ventilate the area.

Hydroxyl Generator

A hydroxyl generator relies on ultraviolet light to generate hydroxyl radicals that eliminate smoke odors.

Vapor Modification

Vapor modification is another odor elimination method that relies on aromatic compounds and a blower or fan to neutralize smoke odor.

Call Us!

When you need fire damage restoration services for your Kailua-Kona business or home, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Cooking Fire in Captain Cook?

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui responds to fire damage emergencies in Captain Cook every year. According to a report published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), ranges or cooktops were involved in 61 percent of home cooking fires between 2014 and 2018.

Here are some home cooking safety tips from the NFPA:

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling food. If you leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
• If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking
• Keep anything that can catch fire (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, or curtains) away from your stovetop
• Households that use electric ranges have a higher risk of cooking fires and associated losses than those using gas ranges

Call Us Today!

If you ever need fire damage restoration services for your Captain Cook home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Hidden Water Damage in Kahului?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

We restore water damage in Maui.

Aloha! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui responds to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Kahului. When your home is damaged by water, your household items may require cleaning to restore them to pre-damage condition. We provide a full range of water damage restoration services including, contents restoration for your belongings. We pretest every item and may use one or a combination of the following:

• Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean before wet cleaning
• Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
• Spray and Wipe - effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
• Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned 
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product 

Here are some ways you can protect your possessions from water damage:

• Store belongings in waterproof bins
• Keep belongings stored on shelving off the floor in garages or sheds
• Keep an up-to-date home inventory of your belongings

Call Us Today!

When you need water damage restoration services for your home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your water damage in Kahului, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Party Fire in Kihei?

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Maui and Hawaii.

Aloha! The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that more than one-third of the Halloween decoration fires reported each year start with a candle. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui responds to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day. We wish everyone a Happy Halloween and offer some tips from the NFPA for having a safe Halloween celebration in Kihei:

• Use a battery-operated candle or glow stick in jack-o-lanterns
• Dried flowers, cornstalks, and crepe paper catch fire easily
• Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters
• When using electrical lighting to decorate your home, make sure it is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
• Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged
• Remember to keep exits clear of decorations, so nothing blocks escape routes. Make sure all smoke alarms are working.

For families still planning to attend Halloween parties or go trick-or-treating:

• When choosing costumes, stay away from long trailing fabric that could come in contact with open flames or other heat sources
• Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o-lanterns with candles in them
• Provide children with flashlights to carry for lighting or glow sticks as part of their costumes

Call Us!

When you need fire damage restoration services for your home or business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® We’ll restore your fire damage in Kihei, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 808-329-6560. Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Sewer Backup in Waikoloa Business?

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to sewer backups 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! When your Waikoloa business has a sewer backup, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has a team of technicians ready to respond to your emergency 24-hours a day. We have the equipment and protective gear necessary to clean and restore sewage backups safely. There are three categories of contaminated water, as follows:

Category 1: “Clean Water”

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated can degrade into category two or three

Category 2: “Gray Water”

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category two water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces or dishwasher overflow.

• It May contain bacteria and viruses
• It can quickly degrade into category three if left untreated

Category 3: “Black Water”

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Call Us!

When you need sewage cleanup and restoration services for your business or home, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll clean and restore your sewer damage in Waikoloa, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Smoke Alarm Safety Tips for Kailua-Kona?

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha! For the past twenty years, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been mitigating and restoring fire damage for families and businesses in Kailua-Kona. Smoke alarms save lives, and it is essential to test and maintain your smoke alarm system regularly. The National Fire Protection Association offers this helpful information about smoke alarm safety:

Smoke Alarms Safety Tips

• A closed-door may slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire
• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area
• Install alarms on every level of the home 
• Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound 
• Large homes may need extra smoke alarms
• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
• When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms in your home every ten years

Call Us Today!

Fires can happen at any time, and having a properly functioning smoke alarm system can save lives. When you need fire damage restoration services, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your fire damage in Kailua-Kona, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooded Floor in Kamuela?

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

We restore water damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. When we left our home in Kamuela to visit family, I had no idea my son had left the water running in the bathtub. (He thought he had turned it off, but a small stream of water was still coming out of the waterspout.) There was a towel left in the tub, and it blocked the drain, so when we came home that evening, we came home to a flooded floor! We called SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui, and they gave us some tips on things we could do while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

Call Us Today!

When you need water damage restoration services for your Kamuela home or business SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® We have been restoring water damage for Kamuela homes and businesses for over twenty years. Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your water damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Wind Damage in Waikoloa?

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate and restore water damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring storm damage in Waikoloa. High winds can cause serious damage to traditional and manufactured homes, but there are things homeowners can do to minimize the potential for wind damage. Here are some helpful wind damage mitigation tips from State Farm Insurance:

Traditional Homes

• Keep your home firmly anchored in high winds by having anchor bolts with heavy-gauge, square bolt washers installed to connect your floor to the foundation
• Reinforce the rest of the frame by connecting wall and floor components with properly installed plywood or oriented strand board and attach roof trusses or rafters to the walls with metal connectors
• On existing homes, this can be done when replacing siding

Manufactured Homes

• Manufactured homes are more prone to damage from high winds as a result of non-permanent foundations
• Inspect all straps and tie-downs regularly for rust, weakness, or wear and have repairs made immediately

Windows

• Install windows rated for the wind speeds in your region
• For the best protection in hurricane-prone areas, install impact-resistant permanent shutters that meet applicable building code approved standards

Call Us!

When you need storm damage restoration services for your Waikoloa home or business SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll clean and restore your wind damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Clogged Rain Gutters in Hilo?

9/21/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate and restore water damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha.  SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring storm damage in Hilo for over twenty years. In many cases, clogged rain gutters and downspouts have compounded the damage from the rain by directing the water into the home instead of away from it. When rain gutters are working properly, they will direct rain away from the roofline and foundation. Here is a tip on how to clean your rain gutters using a power washer:

If it has been a while since you cleaned your rain gutters, a power washer may be the perfect tool to get the rain gutters clear of built-up dirt and debris. Using a power washer can be a messy but effective process, so plan on cleaning the roof and walls of your home’s exterior, too!

• Use the fine-spray nozzle to blast away debris from the gutter system working towards the downspout hole
• Point the nozzle down the hole and rinse the shaft until the water can run through it freely

Call Us!

When you need storm damage restoration services for your Hilo home or business SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll clean and restore your water damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Roof Leak and Water Damage in Lahaina?

9/13/2021 (Permalink)

We restore water damage in Maui and Hawaii 24-hours a day.

Aloha. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui witnesses firsthand the damage a leaking roof can cause to a home or business in a short period of time. We follow the one-four-eight-hour rule, meaning that we will return your call within one hour, we will arrive onsite within four hours of your call, and we will contact your insurance adjuster within eight hours. Owner, Brian Konishi, shares his over twenty-five years of insurance industry experience with the team and the customers he serves. Here are some tips for keeping your roof leak-free from the Insurance Information Institute:

Repair and protect your home's exterior make

• Caulk and seal windows to guard against water seepage
• Inspect your roof for missing, damaged, and aging shingles and necessary repairs
• Check your downspouts. Remove debris that may have accumulated in downspouts and rain gutters. Position downspouts so that they direct water away from the house.
• Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to be sure they are not creating water damage to the walls and foundations of the house. Turn off and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes.
• Install gutter guards to prevent gutter clogs and keep water flowing away from the house instead of accumulating on the roof

Call Us!

When you need water restoration services for your Lahaina home or business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll clean and restore your water damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Water Damage in Waikoloa Home?

9/6/2021 (Permalink)

We restore water damage in Hawaii and Maui 24-hours a day.

Aloha. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring water damage for the Waikoloa community for over twenty years. Here is a water damage timeline from our website that explains the type of damage water will do in a short period of time:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
• Furniture begins to swell and crack
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
• A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
• Metal begins to rust and corrode
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
• Paint begins to blister
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

Call Us!

When you need water restoration services for your Waikoloa home or business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll clean and restore your water damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Electrical Fire in Hilo Home?

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

We restore fire damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring fire damage for Hilo homeowners and businesses for over twenty years. Here are some electrical safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician
• Only use one heat-producing appliance plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time
• Major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Extension cords and plug strips should not be used.
• Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs. Consider having them installed in your home.
• Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock. GFCIs shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. They should be installed inside the home in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and basements. All outdoor receptacles should be GFCI protected.
• Test AFCIs and GFCIs once a month according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use. Have a qualified electrician add more receptacle outlets, so you don’t have to use extension cords.

Call Us!

When you need fire restoration services for your Hilo home or business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll clean and restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Mold Damage in Hilo Business?

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. For over twenty years, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been helping Hilo businesses with mold problems. The warm and moist climate offers the perfect conditions for mold to flourish. Mold can also appear when there is hidden moisture in a structure due to a water leak. When mitigating mold damage, it is important to identify the source of the moisture and repair the water source to minimize the chances of the mold reappearing later.

Here are some facts about mold:

• 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 air conditioning and 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
• 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.

Call Us!

When you need mold remediation services for your Hilo commercial business or home, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll mitigate and remediate your commercial mold damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooding Safety Tips for Kailua-Kona Residents?

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. Do you know that SERVPRO® of Hawaii | SERVPRO® of Maui has been responding to storm damage emergencies for over twenty years in Kailua-Kona? When there is a severe storm and your home floods in the middle of the night, it is important to know what to do and NOT to do while waiting for help to arrive. Here are some tips from our website:

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water
• Don't use television or other household appliances
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging

Call Us Today!

When you need storm damage restoration services for your Kailua-Kona home or business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on call 24-hours a day to serve you. Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your storm damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Escape Planning for Hilo?

8/11/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in emergency fire restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. Having a fire escape plan that has been tested and reviewed with all of the people in the home can save lives. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Hilo, and offer these tips for making a fire escape plan from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Draw a map of your home. Show all doors and windows.
• Visit each room. Find two ways out.
• All windows and doors should open easily. You should be able to use them to get outside.
• Make sure your home has smoke alarms. Push the test button to make sure each alarm is working.
• Pick a meeting place outside. It should be in front of your home. Everyone will meet at the meeting place.
• Make sure your house or building number can be seen from the street
• Talk about your plan with everyone in your home
• Learn the emergency phone number for your fire department
• Practice your home fire drill!
• Make your own home fire escape plan using grid paper

Call Us Today!

When you need fire damage restoration services for your Hilo home or business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on call 24-hours a day to serve you. Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your fire damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flooding Damage in Kailua-Kona?

8/3/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in emergency water restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. If you live in the Kailua-Kona area, you know that flooding can happen any time of the year. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) floods result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been restoring water damage for Kailua-Kona residents and commercial businesses for over twenty years. Here is some information from FEMA to help you prepare for a flood:

Preparing for a Flood
Make a plan for your household, including your pets, so that you and your family know what to do, where to go, and what you will need to protect yourselves from flooding. Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response. Gather supplies, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and water for several days, in case you must leave immediately or if services are cut off in your area.

In Case of Emergency
Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies. Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.

Call Us Today!

When you need water damage restoration services in Kailua-Kona, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on call 24-hours a day to serve you. Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your water damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Advanced Technologies Used for Property Restoration in Kihei?

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in emergency fire and water restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui uses advanced technology to restore damaged properties to preloss condition more reliably, effectively, and quickly in Kihei. For example, our water damage restoration technicians use scientific drying principles and state-of-the-art moisture detection equipment to detect, measure and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Hygrometers are used to measure the extent of moisture saturation in the damaged area.

Moisture detection and measurement equipment

• Infrared cameras may be used to identify the location of water for thorough water removal
• Hygrometers and other meters measure moisture and the extent of moisture saturation

Water extraction equipment

• Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
• Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

SERVPRO technicians follow the guidelines and best practices set forth by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and are required to undergo initial rigorous and ongoing training to stay up-to-speed with technological advancements in the restoration industry.

Call Us Today!

When you experience a water or fire damage emergency in Kihei,  SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Our technicians are on call 24-hours a day and can typically be on-site within four hours of your call. Call us at 808-329-6560. We’ll clean and restore your property damage, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Commercial Cleaning Services in Kailua-Kona?

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in commercial cleaning and restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is committed to keeping commercial businesses in Kailua-Kona looking their best. Although we are better known for our emergency fire and water damage services, we also are specialty-trained to perform a full range of deep cleaning services that go way beyond what a typical janitorial service can do. Our technicians are trained and certified by the Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry.

Common wear and tear and soil buildup will leave your commercial building or offices looking dingy and can also create odor problems. Our technicians have the advanced training, equipment, and experience to clean and restore buildings and commercial properties and keep them looking their best. We clean everything from restaurant hoods and commercial kitchens to chemical spills and biohazard removal. Our cleaning services include the following:

• Biohazard and Sewage
• Trauma and Crime Scene
• Carpet and Upholstery
• Drapes and Blinds
• Ceilings, Walls, and Hard Floors
• Odor Removal and Deodorization
• Vandalism
• Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Units (HVAC)

Call Us Today!

When you need commercial restoration services in Kailua-Kona, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll clean your commercial property, “Like it never even happened.” Mahalo!

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Flood Safety Tips for Hilo?

7/12/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm restoration in Hawaii and Maui.

Aloha. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has seen lots of storms and has responded to many storm damage emergencies over the past twenty years in Hilo. Here are some tips for protecting your family during a flood from the American Red Cross:

Protecting Your Family

• Talk with your family about what to do if a flood watch or warning is issued. Discussing floods ahead of time helps reduce fear, especially for younger children.

• Ensure that every member of your family carries a Safe and Well wallet card.

• Make sure you have access to NOAA radio broadcasts
• Find out if you are located in a floodplain, which is considered a Special Flood Hazard Area. If so, you are still eligible for flood insurance. Check with your city or county government to review the Flood Insurance Rate Maps, published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

• Find out if local streams or rivers flood easily

• Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe deposit box. You may need quick, easy access to these documents. Keep them in a safe place less likely to be damaged during a flood. Take pictures on a phone and keep copies of important documents and files on a flash drive that you can carry with you on your house or car keys.

Call Us Today!

When you need storm restoration services in Hilo, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. 

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire-damaged Belongings in Waikoloa?

7/5/2021 (Permalink)

We restore fire-damaged items in Hawaii and Maui.

When your Waikoloahome or business experiences fire damage, there will be many belongings and items requiring specialized cleaning. Every fire loss is unique and brings its own set of restoration challenges. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been cleaning and restoring fire-damaged belongings for over twenty years. We invest in new technologies that allow us to clean fire-damaged contents more effectively, including:

ESPORTA Washing System

 We use the ESPORTA washing system to clean soft contents and textiles impacted by heavy smoke and soot damage. This allows us to clean and process soft contents in-house rather than sending them to a cleaner.

Pretesting

Our technician’s pre-test all belongings and contents to determine what items are salvageable and may use one or more of these cleaning methods as required:

• Dry Cleaning - used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning
• Wet Cleaning - an effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues
• Spray and Wipe - effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning
• Foam Cleaning - used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned
• Abrasive Cleaning - involves agitation of the surface being cleaned
• Immersion Cleaning - contents are dipped into a bath of the cleaning product

Call Us Today!

When you need fire restoration services for your Waikoloa home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. 

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Highly Trained Restoration Team in Hilo?

6/21/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in property damage restoration on Hawaii and Maui!

Hilo Customers Deserve the Best!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui’s technicians are required to undergo initial and ongoing continuous training and education to stay up-to-speed with industry best practices and technological advancements.

• IICRC Training
• Employee Certification Training
• Initial Franchise Training
• e-Learnings
• Continuing Education Classes

Our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the nonprofit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. They are immersed in coursework on the topics of water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Employee Certification Training

This voluntary program is designed to allow SERVPRO franchise employees to work at their own pace to attain specialized training and certification in the following modules after completing the course materials and an examination:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Initial, e-Learnings, and Continuing Education Classes

After the 15-day intensive training, other training cover many restoration topics, including:

• Crew Training
• Fire Restoration
• Water Restoration
• Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

Web-based training gives our employees access to ongoing education and e-learning. It is a voluntary program that is designed to keep office staff and technicians up-to-speed on industry standards. This allows us to provide the service and support our residential and commercial business customers expect.

Call Us Today!

When you need property damage restoration services for your Hilo home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. 

Franchises are Independently Owned and Operated.

Storm Emergency Kit for Kailua-Kona Residents?

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in storm damage restoration in Hawaii and Maui!

Preparing for an Emergency

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been mitigating and restoring storm damage for the residents of Kailua-Kona for over twenty years. Here is some storm preparedness information from the State of Hawaii Emergency Management Agency:

Preparedness Information

Stock your emergency preparedness kit with enough food and water for at least 14 days. Other essential items include a battery-operated radio to receive emergency communications and essential medication.

Water

Water is essential to sustaining life and is an important part of your emergency preparedness kit. General guidance is for people to store one gallon of water per person, per day for at least 14 days. This can be done by storing cases of water in a cool, dry place or by storing your own tap water.

Food

Store high-calorie, shelf stable food in a cool, dry place. Examples of high-calorie food that does not require heat or additional water to prepare include nuts, ready-to-eat cereals, peanut butter, dried fruit, and canned soups.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

Include items like hand sanitizer, sanitary wipes, toilet paper, and bags to contain waste

Medication

Stock extra medication in your emergency supplies. Have a hard copy of your prescription on hand and pack medication requiring refrigeration in ice packs or a cooler if the power goes out.

Call Us Today!

When you need storm restoration services in Kailua-Kona, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. 

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Damage Safety Tips for Hilo?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

We are trusted leaders in fire damage restoration on Hawaii and Maui!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui offers these important safety tips for Hilo residents from our website while waiting for help to arrive:

What To Do After A Fire

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpets
• Keep hands clean so as not to further soil upholstery, walls, and woodwork
• Place clean towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery, and carpet traffic areas
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator and prop doors open
• Clean and protect chrome with a light coating of petroleum jelly or oil
• Wash houseplants on both sides of leaves
• Change the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning filter
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers

What NOT To Do After A Fire

• Don't attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces or shampoo carpet or upholstery without contacting us
• Don't attempt to clean any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat, or water without consulting an authorized repair service
• Don't use any canned or packaged food or beverages that may have been stored near the fire, heat, or water
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet and the wiring may be damaged
• Don't send garments to an ordinary dry cleaner as improper cleaning may set the smoke odor

Call Us Today!

When you need fire restoration services in Hilo, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. 

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Water Damage in Waikoloa?

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

We have twenty years of experience mitigating water damage in Hawaii and Maui!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been responding to water damage emergencies in the Waikoloa area for over twenty years, and offer these some tips from the Insurance Information Institute to maintain and understand indoor plumbing systems:

Inspect appliance hoses and faucets. 

Immediately replace any hoses that have cracks or leaks and replace them all every five to seven years.

Inspect showers and tubs. 

Check the seal and caulking around showers and tubs to make sure they are watertight and reseal if necessary.

When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine and never leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.

Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home.

A damaged hose or a burst pipe can send water racing into your home. Being able to locate and shut off the main water supply quickly will save stress, money, and time.

Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system.

This will protect against the increased pressure caused by freezing pipes and can help prevent your pipes from bursting.

Check plumbing and heating pipes.

Look closely for cracks and leaks and have any necessary repairs made immediately.

Call Us Today!

When you have a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your water damage in Waikoloa, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Mold Damage in Kailua-Kona?

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

We have twenty years of experience mitigating mold damage in Hawaii and Maui!

Interesting Mold Facts for Kailua-Kona

Did you know that mold can colonize in the warm, moist, Hawaiian climate in as little as forty-eight hours? SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been mitigating and remediating mold problems for the residents and business owners of Kailua-Kona for over twenty years. We know that in many cases, our fast response time has helped to prevent the spread of mold to other areas. Here are some facts about mold from our website:

• 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 air conditioning and 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
• Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed, or 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 forty-five percent

Call Us Today!

When you need help with a mold problem, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. 

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Happy Families in Hilo?

5/17/2021 (Permalink)

Customer satisfaction is the key to our success in Hawaii!

Happy Hilo Customers

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been providing emergency restoration services to Hilo families and businesses for over thirty years. Our high customer satisfaction and customer loyalty play a huge role in our success. Here are some recent customer reviews from Google Reviews:

“Mike did such an exceptional job he earned a nickname, “Make it right Mike”! I would highly recommend SERVPRO over any similar company on the island. The response time likely saved my house & sanity. Mahalo Nui Loa for help making highly stressful experience bearable.” Jacob Rohrer

“The crew Kelvin, Richard, Casey, and Damon. They were so nice to us and made sure we had nothing to worry about. The job they did was wonderful. We were worried about everything, and they made it all better than before our accident. I highly recommend this Company the general manager Mike was on top of everything. Very professional group.” Pam Bitner

“Casey and Calvin and Damon helped me feel very assured and comforted knowing everything will go back to how it was and that they are taking good care of me. They are knowledgeable and Answered all my questions and communicated in a way that was easy for a new homeowner to understand.” T S

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui offers a full range of restoration services in Hilo to quickly and efficiently return your home to preloss condition. Call us today at 808-329-6560. 

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Roof Leak and Water Damage in Hilo Business?

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to commercial water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Roof Leak Damages Hilo Business

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui witnesses firsthand the damage a roof leak can do to a structure in a short period of time. Water is invasive and can cause extensive damage in a short period of time. Here is a water damage timeline describing the damage water can do within one minute to one week:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24

• Drywall begins to swell and break down
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
• Furniture begins to swell and crack
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
• A musty odor appears

48 Hours to 1 Week

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp
• Metal begins to rust and corrode
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold
• Paint begins to blister
• Wood flooring swells and warps
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui offers a full range of commercial water restoration services to return your commercial business to preloss condition with minimal disruption. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your commercial water damage in Hilo, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Grilling Fire in Lahaina?

5/3/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate fire damage quickly and efficiently in Hawaii and Maui.

U.S. Grilling Statistics

Did you know that seven out of every ten people in the United States have a griller or smoker? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2014 and 2018, fire departments responded to over 8900 home fires involving grills, hibachis, or barbeques per year.

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Lahaina, and we offer these grilling safety tips from the NFPA to help you stay safe while grilling on a charcoal grill:

Charcoal Grill Safety

• There are several ways to get the charcoal ready to use. Charcoal chimney starters allow you to start the charcoal using newspaper as fuel.
• If you use a starter fluid, use only charcoal starter fluid. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flammable liquids to the fire
• Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach of children and away from heat sources
• There are also electric charcoal starters, which do not use fire. Be sure to use an extension cord for outdoor use.
• When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool before disposing in a metal container

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui offers a full range of fire restoration services to return your home or commercial business to preloss condition with minimal disruption. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your fire damage in Lahaina, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fast Disaster response Time in Kailua-Kona?

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

We restore property damage quickly and efficiently in Hawaii and Maui.

Faster to Any Size Disaster in Kailua-Kona

At SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui, we know that every minute your commercial business is disrupted due to a fire or water damage emergency represents lost business and reduced productivity.

This picture shows our technicians leaving after the successful completion of a severely water-damaged hallway in an office complex. The photo was taken five days after the incident. We handled the cleanup saving the business owner valuable time and money.

Water can cause lots of damage in a short amount of time. Here is what water can do in the first 24 hours of exposure:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp

Hours 1 - 24

• Drywall begins to swell and break down
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish
• Furniture begins to swell and crack
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain
• A musty odor appears

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business requires emergency restoration services, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has a team of highly trained restoration technicians on-call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your property damage in Kailua-Kona, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Deep Cleaning Services in Waikoloa?

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

We provide specialty deep cleaning and decontamination services in Hawaii and Maui.

Spring Cleaning in Waikoloa?

Spring is here, and it’s never been more important to deep clean and decontaminate homes and businesses. At SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui, we have over forty years of experience deep cleaning properties in Hawaii and Maui. Our technicians are trained and certified to provide a full range of cleaning services to professionally clean, sanitize, decontaminate and deodorize every part of your home or commercial business.

Tile and Hard Flooring

The over-the-counter cleaning products used to maintain floors can cause soil to accumulate over time and make your floors appear dull even when they are clean. Eventually professional cleaning will be required to remove the buildup. We use time-tested and industry-approved cleaning methods and use a proprietary cleaning system to properly restore floors to their original beauty.

SERVPRO Specialty Cleaning Services

• Air Ducts & HVAC
• Biohazard
• Carpet & Upholstery
• Ceiling, Floors & Walls
• Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
• Drapes & Blinds
• Odor Removal
• Sewage & Toilet Overflow
• Trauma & Crime Scene
• Vandalism & Graffiti
• Commercial Cleaning Services

Call Us Today!

When your home or commercial business requires deep cleaning services, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has a team of highly trained restoration technicians on-call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll deep clean and decontaminate your home or business in Waikoloa, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Damage in Kailua-Kona?

4/14/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to commercial fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii.

Commercial Fire Damage Happens in Kailua-Kona

At SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui, we know that every minute your commercial business is closed due to fire, water, storm, or mold damage represents lost revenue and disruption to your employees and customers. We approach commercial fire and water damage emergencies with the focus on getting you back to the business of running your business quickly and with minimal disruption to your employees and customers. 

Call Us!

You never know if your commercial business will face fire, water, storm, or mold damage, but if it does, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has a team of highly trained restoration technicians on-call and ready to assist you 24-hours a day. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your commercial property damage in Kailua-Kona, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Fire Escape Planning in Waikoloa?

4/6/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii.

Plan Ahead Waikoloa!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui responds to fire damage emergencies throughout the year in Waikoloa and we know that having an emergency plan in place can save lives. Here are some escape planning tips from the National Fire Protection Association:

• Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all the doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
• Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
• Have an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole, or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.
• Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year.
• Practice using different ways out.
• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.
• Close doors behind you as you leave.

Oftentimes we arrive onsite as the firefighters from the Waikoloa Fire Station are preparing to leave the scene after the fire has been extinguished. There is always a lot of smoke, soot, and debris left from the firefighting efforts, and most families are left with a very stressful situation.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is ready to assist you with fire damage emergencies 24-hours a day. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your fire damage in Waikoloa, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Heavy Rain and Storm Damage in Hilo?

3/24/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii.

Storm Disaster Recovery in Hawaii?

Heavy rain, high winds, and hurricanes can happen any time of the year in the Hawaiian Islands. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been mitigating storm damage for the residents of Hilo for years, and we know that every minute counts. When we arrive, we will immediately tarp up and board up any areas of the structure exposed to the elements to minimize further damage. We will conduct a thorough assessment and immediately begin the cleanup and restoration process. We will also contact your insurance adjuster and help you with the insurance paperwork and process.

No job is too big for us. Our Catastrophic Storm and Major Event Response team can provide help no matter how extensive the weather event is. Because we are part of a national network of over 1700 franchises, we can mobilize teams to respond to major weather events, including:

• 2017 California wildfires
• 2017 Hurricane Irma
• 2017 Hurricane Harvey
• 2016 Hurricane Matthew
• 2015 Carolina floods
• 2014 Polar Vortex
• 2012 Sandy
• 2010 Nashville floods
• 2008 Ike
• 2007 Chicago floods
• 2007 Ohio floods
• 2007 California wildfires
• 2005 Katrina/Wilma/Rita

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is ready to assist you with storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hilo. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your storm damage, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Sewage Spill Damage in Lahaina?

3/15/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to sewage spills 24-hours a day in Maui.

Sewage Spills Can’t Wait

You can lose customers fast when there is a sewage or toilet backup at your business. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been serving the community of Lahaina for over twenty years. Our restoration technicians are on-call 24-hours a day and are equipped with advanced training, protective gear, and specialized equipment to safely mitigate sewage backups and toilet overflows. When your commercial business has a sewage emergency, it is important to mitigate the damage quickly and get back to “business as usual” as soon as possible. Sewage spills fall under “category 3 water, or black water.”

Category 3: “Black Water”

This water is extremely unsanitary and can cause severe illness or death if ingested. Any contact should be avoided. Sources for category three water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is ready to assist you with any sewage and toilet overflow spills 24-hours a day in Maui. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your sewage and toilet overflow in Lahaina, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Commercial Water Damage in Kailua-Kona?

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to commercial water damage 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Water damage happens

When a commercial business has a water damage emergency, it is important to restore the damage quickly and efficiently to get back to “business as usual” as soon as possible. SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been serving the business community of Kailua-Kona for over twenty years, and we understand the unique challenges that water damage presents when living in a tropical climate. We have extensive experience working on many types of buildings for many different businesses and industries, including:

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military

Here is a customer testimonial from one of our repeat customers:

We are property managers based in Kona who have used SERVPRO on numerous occasions, each time went exactly according to plan. Todd and Victor are amazing at what they do! We always dread the instances where we are forced to call a water mitigation company, but the silver lining is that we know we are in good hands and never have to worry about the end result. They make it just "Like it never even happened." Boundless Hawaii Reservations, Kailua-Kona, HI

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is ready to assist you 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your commercial water damage in Kailua-Kona, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Keep Your Hilo Office Prepared for Fire

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Office fires in Hilo are more common than you might think. If you have a break room in your office or small business, it probably contains a coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator, and/or other small appliances. You should also include a fire extinguisher in there somewhere! SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui wants to remind you that fires can start as easily as turning on one of these appliances. There could be a short somewhere in the wiring or something inside the microwave could catch fire. Unfortunately, the possibilities are real and they do happen.

Your workplace should have a training session on how to use fire extinguishers. If the owner of the business has not done that, please look into setting up a training session. Local fire departments are usually happy to assist with this training, and they can provide some real-life examples of ways to practice fire safety. 

If your break room (or any other area of your office building) catches on fire, you will likely have smoke damage as well as damage from the fire. That is where SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui comes in. We are here to clean up the damage and make your Hilo building look new again. We are open 24/7 and we show up prepared. Please do not hesitate to call us if you need our services. We are Here to Help. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated

Smoke Detectors can Save Lives

3/3/2021 (Permalink)

Fire spreads fast once it is started so SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui wants to remind you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) can help save lives in your Maui area home. An alarm alerts you that danger is present giving you time to get out.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui wants you to remember:

• Closed doors can slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.  That is good for reducing smoke damage and fire damage. That is also why you should have a smoke alarm in every sleeping room in the home
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
• Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
• Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
• Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
• Test the smoke alarms at least once a month.  There is a test button on the alarm
• When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years

If your Maui area home is not properly protected by a smoke detector, please install one. If you experience a fire, immediately vacate the home and then contact your fire department once you are outside the home.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated. 

Shower Pan Problems in Kailua-Kona?

3/2/2021 (Permalink)

Hawaii and Maui are Here to Help.

Kailua-Kona residents want to know.

Have you had your shower pan inspected lately? According to a study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IIBHS), homes more than twenty years old were 37 percent more likely to have water damage involving a shower, and more than half of these claims involved a damaged shower stall.

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been responding to water damage emergencies for years in Hawaii and Maui, and many of these emergencies may have been prevented by annual inspection and maintenance to identify any small, potentially damaging issues before they became a bigger problem and repair. Here are some tips from the IIBHS for maintaining your shower pan:

• Inspect tile and grout every six months, paying attention to loose or cracked tiles or cracked and crumbling grout lines. Repair as needed.
• Test the shower pan annually by:

1. Blocking the drain
2. Fill the shower stall with about one inch of water
3. Use a pencil to mark the waterline
4. Leave the water standing in the shower pan for 8 hours
5. If the water level decreases, contact a plumbing professional.

Call Us Today!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is ready to assist you with any water damage emergency 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your water damage in Kailua-Kona, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Worst Storms in Hawaii History?

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to storm damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Hawaii’s Hurricane History

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been responding to storm damage emergencies for years, and we have the equipment, advanced training, and experience to mitigate storm damage emergencies no matter how big the job is. We have equipment strategically placed at two warehouses on the Big Island, so we can respond to any storm emergency quickly. Here is a rundown of the last two hurricanes to hit the Hawaiian Islands in recorded history from Hawaii News Now:

• Hurricane Iniki (1992): This category four hurricane was the most devastating hurricane to hit Hawaii. Borne from El Nino, Iniki traveled on a west-northwest course and continued to strengthen. On September 11, the eye of the hurricane passed directly over Kauai, devastating the island. It caused over $1.8 billion in damage and was responsible for six deaths.
• Hurricane Iwa (1982): At the time, this category one hurricane was the most damaging to hit Hawaii. It passed just west of Kauai, causing severe property damage, minor physical injuries, and one death. Up to $250 million dollars in damage was created.

Call Us!

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is ready to assist you with any storm damage emergency 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your storm damage, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Mold Mitigation and Remediation Services in Kamuela?

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

We mitigate and remediate mold damage in Hawaii and Maui.

Mold Happens

The warm, moist climate of Hawaii creates the perfect environment for mold to propagate. As you can see from this picture, it can grow anywhere, including inside a car’s interior! SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui has been mitigating mold damage in Kamuela for over twenty years. Our technicians are certified Applied Microbial Remediation Specialists and have the experience, protective gear, and equipment to mitigate and remediate mold infestations safely.

Mold spores are microscopic and float around in the Earth’s atmosphere until they find the right conditions to thrive. They are always present in the air, but we can only see them when they colonize and grow large enough to see with the naked eye. Here are some more mold facts from our website:

• 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.

Call Us Today!

When you discover mold growing in your home, car, or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is ready to assist you. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll mitigate and remediate your mold problem in Kamuela, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Thunderstorm preparedness in Maui

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms are beautiful, but they can also be dangerous.  They can cause severe damage to your home and property in Maui. Thunderstorms include lightning and can:

• Include winds over 50 MPH
• Create hail
• Cause flash floods
• Cause tornadoes

In most places, a thunderstorm can happen at any time of the year and at any time of the day.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui knows you cannot prevent a thunderstorm, but you can prepare:

• Know the risk for thunderstorms in Maui

• Sign up for your community’s warning system 
• Cut down or trim trees that may fall on your home or office
• Install surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui repeats the warning, “When thunder roars, go indoors”.  You don’t have to wait for the thunder. If there is a thunderstorm warning, go inside. Once there:

• Unplug appliances
• Do not use landline phones in office or home
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings

If you can’t get inside a building:

• If you are swimming or in a boat, get to land immediately.  Find shelter
• If you are in a car, don’t touch anything metal
• “Turn around. Don’t Drown. '' Avoid flooded roads. 6 inches of moving water can knock you down. One foot of moving water can sweep away your car. 

A lightning strike during a thunderstorm can leave a wake of destruction in its path. This can range from minor electrical issues to fire damage. Lightning is also a major cause of injury or death from weather-related dangers.  Most people survive being hit by lightning, but they often have long-term problems. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning

Water Damage Disaster in Lahaina?

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Maui and Hawaii.

Fast Response Time Matters

Water damage is one of the most invasive and costly repairs a homeowner will ever face. This is because water can seep underneath floors and into walls and damage the structural supports if the leak goes undetected for too long.

For over twenty years, SERVPRO® of Hawaii|SERVPRO® of Maui has been proudly serving the Lahaina community and mitigating water damage emergencies of all kinds. We are on call 24-hours a day to respond to your call because we know that every moment counts when restoring water damage, and the sooner a structure is completely dried, the better chances of saving money on the repair work will be. Here is the water restoration process we typically follow for most jobs:

• Step 1: Emergency Contact
• Step 2: Inspection
• Step 3: Water Removal
• Step 4: Drying
• Step 5: Cleaning & Sanitizing
• Step 6: Restoration

Call Us Today!

Whether you have a flooded floor in Waikoloa on the Big Island or a water damage disaster in your Lahaina home on Maui, SERVPRO® of Hawaii|SERVPRO® of Maui has a team of water restoration technicians on call 24-hours a day to assist you. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your water damage, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Hawaii® | SERVPRO® of Maui is independently owned and operated.

Smoke Detectors can Save Lives in Kona

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Fire spreads fast once it is started so SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui wants to remind you that smoke detectors (smoke alarms) can help save lives in your Kona home. An alarm alerts you that danger is present giving you time to get out.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui wants you to remember:

• Closed doors can slow the spread of smoke, heat, and fire.  That is good for reducing smoke damage and fire damage. That is also why you should have a smoke alarm in every sleeping room in the home
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home
• Large homes might need extra smoke alarms
• Some companies make alarms that are interconnected. When one sounds, they all sound
• Do not turn off smoke detectors when cooking
• Test the smoke alarms at least once a month.  There is a test button on the alarm
• When the alarm sounds, get everyone outside and stay outside
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years

If your Kona home is not properly protected by a smoke detector, please install one. If you experience a fire, immediately vacate the home and then contact your fire department once you are outside the home.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Smoke-alarms

https://www.nfpa.org/public-education/by-topic/smoke-alarms/safety-messages-about-smoke-alarms

Evacuation when Medical Supplies Are Needed for your Well-being in Hilo

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Storm Damage & Evacuation in Hilo.

Some of these items can be kept in a waterproof container (your emergency kit). Medications probably cannot, but you can have them ready to bring with you.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui suggests having these items prepared in the event you would need to evacuate your home in Hilo.

• Copies of medical insurance & Medicare cards

• Warm blankets
• Extra clothing, especially socks & undergarments
• Bottled water
• Batteries for your electronic devices
• Written contact list

Some people in Hilo will also need to consider the following:

• Make sure that at least one other person can get your medications &  supplies
• Have at least a week-long supply of prescription medicines
• A list of all medications, dosages, and allergies
• An extra pair of glasses or extra contact lenses 
• Hearing-aid batteries 
• Games & activities for children

If you have pets in Hilo, consider these items:

• Pet food and toys 
• Toys or comfort objects
• Vet information

Some shelters will not or cannot allow pets. Ahead of an emergency, find out which ones will allow your 4-legged loved ones. All shelters allow service animals.  

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated.

Links:

https://www.fema.gov/ 

From Disaster to Normal in Maui

2/7/2021 (Permalink)

From disaster…

Time and again the professionals at SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui  have been on the front lines in post-catastrophe situations with their service being invaluable to adjusters and homeowners alike. From the mold created by catastrophic water leaks to soot and smoke removal after a house fire, we bring stability and efficiency to the job that only professionals can bring.

…to normal.

At the end of the day in Maui, you just want to turn the key, walk in the door, sit your things down, and sink into a soft chair to relax. You’ve just endured the trauma of some fire, water, or mold disaster and clean up and you don’t want to continue to be in the middle of a disaster area. We will strive to make your situation as painless as possible and when the job is complete  and you return to your normal way of living, it will have been our pleasure to have helped  make it “Like it never even happened.”  So, when or if you’re faced with any of the previously described problems, SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui encourages you to call so we can help you remediate the damage.

Who Should I Use for Restoration Purposes in Hawaii

2/6/2021 (Permalink)

Who should I use?

Emergency situations usually call for quick reaction. In cases where a home or business structure in Hawaii is being compromised by unhealthy and/or unsafe conditions, SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is the-fast-response you need to get relief.  Chaotic situations can be handled or endured in an orderly fashion with professionals and the right tools applied. When you must choose your clean-up/restoration specialist, you are likely considering a few important things:

• Convenient location
• 24/7 availability
• Professionalism
• Efficiency
• Honesty
• Experience
• Latest equipment

SERVPRO is the answer.

In a problematic and possibly chaotic situation, remember, we’re Here To Help. SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui are business owners, homeowners, and renters just like you so we understand the initial needs. Our promise to you is to provide the same quality and integrity based service that we, as your neighbor, may also need in the future.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Pet Safety in Case of a Fire in Maui

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage can harm animals just as it can harm people in Maui. At SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui, we love our pets as much as you love yours. We could not stand to see them injured or killed in a house fire. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui shares these ideas with you:

• When you design your fire escape plan, practice with your pets
• If there are fires outside, bring pets inside. If you have to evacuate, you will be ready to bring the pets with you
• Know where your pets hide. You may not have time to hunt for them in an emergency
• Animal-rescue groups and other organizations have pet stickers that you can put on your windows and doors. The stickers tell firefighters how many pets you have, and what kinds
• Prepare evacuation kits for the pets. These kits can be large plastic bins. Put in copies of their vet records, extra leashes and collars, toys, and food

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui reminds you to call the fire department once you are safely outside the City or County home.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Campaigns/TakeAction/Household-pets 

https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/Public-Education/Campaigns/TakeAction/TakeActionPetsChecklist.pdf

What to do when the kitchen sink overflows in Maui

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

As property owners, we know that many things can go wrong. This includes accidental fire, mold problems, and more. One common problem is the kitchen sink. They can get clogged, pipes can burst, and they can overflow. There are many reasons the kitchen sink may be overflowing – the drain is clogged and the water-filled up quickly, a homeowner had to walk away in the middle of doing dishes and forgot to go back and finish that chore, a child turned the water on and ran away (it happens!), etc. The possibilities behind this are endless. Do not cry over spilled water (or milk!).

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is always on-call and ready to save the day for Maui residents! Here are some steps to take when the water starts flowing out of the sink and on to the floor:

• Shut off the faucet that allows water to flow to your sink 
• Use a pitcher or any other type of large cup to get water out of your sink
• If you have food disposal connected to the sink, check that and make sure it is not clogged
• If a clog is not solving itself, grab the plunger – they are not just for toilets
• Keep an eye on any water damage because this could lead to mold

Maui residents are encouraged to call us atSERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui when the job becomes too much and the water is overwhelming and all over the floors. We have highly trained professionals that are ready to head to any home or commercial building when cleanup or restoration is needed after any type of water damage. Do not hesitate to give us a call at any time. We are open 24/7 for your convenience.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated.

Link:  https://www.fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/recover/fema_mold_brochure_english.pdf

Commercial lighting equipment safety information for Maui

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), one of the most common causes of commercial fires is electrical and lighting equipment. This type of fire is not easily predicted, as the lighting equipment can look totally fine on the outside in your Maui business.SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui wants to share the following information about commercial fires and how safety equipment helps to lessen the damage and can assist in preventing any bodily injury:

• Wet pipe sprinklers installed in the ceilings of commercial buildings are very effective in helping to fight the fire(s)
• Building sprinklers should be examined and tested every 5 years 
• There should always be a fire extinguisher in reach inside of a commercial building and they must be checked annually to ensure they are in working order
•  If an office building is on fire, exit the building immediately and do not try to fight the fire yourself 
• If there is a lot of smoke inside the building, cover your mouth and nose and do your best to not inhale any of it

In the unfortunate event that a commercial building does catch fire, rest assured that SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is prepared to help clean up any fire damage the building/area has sustained. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated.

Link: https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/Building-and-Life-Safety/US-Structure-in-Office-Properties

Be Prepared for Flooding in Kona

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Reducing Flood Damage in Kona:

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the U.S. They can happen anywhere, anytime. 25% of flood claims come from low-risk areas. SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui knows we can’t prevent storms. We can, however, reduce the amount of flood damage.

Lower the Risk of Flood Damage in Knoa:

• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reports that flood insurance is available even in low-risk areas  
• Check your county planning department to see if you live in a flood plain 
• Raise equipment off the basement floor
• Build barriers to stop flood water from getting into the basement
• Use waterproofing sealants to avoid water damage
• Do not keep important information or possessions in the basement
• Back up computer files and keep them in a safe location
• Install a sump pump
• Install a drainage systems or flood wall in your yard

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui wants you to be safe.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Mauiis Independently Owned and Operated.

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/floods 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/readiness.html

Commercial Flood Insurance in Hawaii

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides flood insurance. The NFIP doesn’t sell insurance. Buy flood insurance from an insurance agent. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is interested in helping the businesses in our community become more educated on flood insurance. According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses do not reopen after experiencing a devastating flood. 

Things to know in Hawaii. Check to see if you might be required to have flood insurance.

• All agencies in Hawaii charge the same for flood insurance
• Standard commercial insurance doesn’t pay for flood damage
• The NFIP sets the rates
• Rates depend on:
• whether you live in a flood plain
• flood risk in your area
• building’s age
• building’s construction
• Building property insurance covers the building
• Personal property insurance covers the building’s contents
• NFIP suggests you need both types
• Policies go into effect 30 days after purchase
• The NFIP help center number is 1-800-427-4661

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui  recommends the following: 

• Check whether or not your area participates in the NFIP
• Check whether or not your area is part of the Community Rating System. The NFIP might have a discount
• Talk to your insurance agent when you need to make changes

Make sure your business is protected from the devastation that comes with unwanted flooding in your office.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

***

Links:

https://www.usa.gov/property-insurance 

www.fema.gov 

Ember Fire in Hawaii?

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Hawaii /SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

SERVPRO of Hawaii & Maui responds to fire damage emergencies in the Hilo area throughout the year and has a team of highly trained technicians on call 24 hours a day. Here are some tips from the NFPA for clearing the most vulnerable zone around your home: 

• Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris, and pine needles that could catch embers.
• Replace or repair any loose or missing shingles or roof tiles to prevent ember penetration.
• Reduce embers that could pass through vents in the eaves by installing 1/8 inch metal mesh screening.
• Clean debris from exterior attic vents and install 1/8 inch metal mesh screening to reduce embers.
• Repair or replace damaged or loose window screens and any broken windows screen or box-in areas below patios and decks with wire mesh to prevent debris and combustible materials from accumulating.
• Move any flammable material away from wall exteriors – mulch, flammable plants, leaves and needles, firewood piles – anything that can burn. Remove anything stored underneath decks or porches. 

SERVPRO® of Hawaii /SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

What to do if you have PTSD during Thunderstorms and Lightning in Hawaii

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

PTSD and Thunderstorms & Lightning in Hawaii

Almost 7% of people in the U.S. have suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

People who have PTSD may experience panic during thunderstorms. Thunderstorms and lightning can set off a person’s alarm bells.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui offers these guides to Coping with PTSD During Storms:  

The best strategy is to be prepared.

• Take care of your emotional health. See a therapist. Learn relaxation exercises. When you feel anxious, you can relax yourself
• Know when a thunderstorm is likely. Plan what you will do during a thunderstorm  
• Take care of your physical health. Eat a healthy diet. Get enough sleep. Do not rely on alcohol or other drugs.  Do not smoke or chew tobacco 

During a Thunderstorm in Hawaii

• Slow down your breathing
• Look around. Notice where you are. Notice that you are in a safe place
• Distract yourself from the storm. Wear headphones and listen to music. Sit in a pop-up tent
• Talk with someone you trust

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

Ease your Burden when Disaster Happens in Kona

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes…

For many, your home in Kona represents a lifetime of hard work and a place where roots are important. It is where family gathers, and where your most endearing and important memories are made. When a disaster strikes; whether it be fire, storm, mold, or other water damage/flooding, it will likely be one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. When these things happen and stress is high call us. Our professionalism and rapid response time, as well as our nonintrusive clean up and exit should do much to ease the burden you are bearing. SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui really does want to help you carry the load.

…we’ll be there to ease your burden.

Sharing a load toSERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui means our work makes your situation more bearable. Twenty-four hours a day/seven days a week we are on call with equipment that is up-to-date, and people who are professional and efficient. Our goal is to keep you moving forward with as little worry as possible in Kona.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Be prepared for power outages from storms in Kona

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Managing Without Power in Kona

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui has seen storm damage lead to power outages.   

A power outage can:

• Disrupt communication
• Make transportation difficult
• Shut down water pipes
• Close businesses, grocery stores, gas stations, banks, ATMS, other services
• Lead to food spoilage
• Lead to contaminated water
• Disable medical devices

During a power outage in Kona, be sure to:

• Keep freezer & refrigerator doors closed. It will reduce the chance of food spoilage
• User generators only outdoors and away from windows
• Disconnect appliances/electronics. Power surges can destroy equipment
• Have already set up plan to refrigerate medicines
• For people who use power wheelchairs, have a backup battery.  You may also need a manual chair
• The local power company should already know that someone in your home relies on medical devices
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home or business
• If travel is safe, go to another location for proper heating or cooling
• Check on your neighbors.

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated. 

Links:

https://www.ready.gov/individuals-access-functional-needs

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/poweroutage/index.html

Keep Your Kailua Office Prepared for Fire

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Office fires in Kailua are more common than you might think. If you have a break room in your office or small business, it probably contains a coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator and/or other small appliances. You should also include a fire extinguisher in there somewhere! SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui wants to remind you that fires can start as easily as turning on one of these appliances. There could be a short somewhere in the wiring or something inside the microwave could catch fire. Unfortunately, the possibilities are real and they do happen. Your workplace should have a training session on how to use fire extinguishers. If the owner of the business has not done that, please look into setting up a training session. Local fire departments are usually happy to assist with this training, and they can provide some real-life examples of ways to practice fire safety. 

If your break room (or any other area of your office building) catches on fire, you will likely have smoke damage as well as damage from the fire. That is where SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui comes in. We are here to clean up the damage and make your Kailua building look new again. We are open 24/7 and we show up prepared. Please do not hesitate to call us if you need our services. We are Here to Help. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii | SERVPRO of Maui is independently owned and operated. 

Building and Restoration Services in Kailua-Kona?

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

We provide a full range of building services in Hawaii and Maui.

Continuity of Service

When Kailua-Kona business owners experience a fire or water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Hawaii | SERVPRO® of Maui has a team of highly trained restoration technicians on call 24 hours a day to respond to your call. We know that every moment your business is closed represents a day of lost revenue, so we work quickly and efficiently to restore your business to preloss condition.

Our technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry. We follow the standards and best practices, concepts, and procedures set forth by the IICRC and our employees are required to undergo rigorous initial and ongoing education to stay up to speed with industry standards.

Call Us Today!

When your commercial business requires services in Hawaii or Maui, SERVPRO® of Hawaii |SERVPRO® of Maui is Here to Help. ® Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your property damage in Kailua-Kona, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii /SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Hidden Water Damage in Hilo?

1/27/2021 (Permalink)

We respond to water damage emergencies 24-hours a day in Hawaii and Maui.

Water damage can happen at any time.

SERVPRO® of Hawaii|SERVPRO® of Maui responds to water damage emergencies 24 hours a day in Hilo because we know that swift action is necessary to avoid costly repairs. Water is very invasive and will seep into walls and under floors, causing hidden water damage to the structure if left untreated for too long. 

According to a study published by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IIBHS), homes older than thirty years were three times more likely to have a plumbing supply or drainage problem. Here are some loss prevention and maintenance tips from the IIBHS:

• Visually inspect plumbing pipes annually, look for condensation around the pipes or an obvious leak and corrosion.
• Pay attention to your water bill. A significant increase could indicate a leak.
• Call a plumber at the first signs of rust-colored water, backed-up toilets or sinks, and cracked or warped flooring.
• Check supply lines to household appliances to make sure they are installed properly and inspect to make sure there are no kinks in the line. If kinks are present, replace the hose.

Call Us Today!

When your Hilo home or business requires water damage restoration, SERVPRO® of Hawaii|SERVPRO® of Maui has a team of water restoration technicians on call 24-hours a day to assist you. Call us today at 808-329-6560. We’ll restore your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii /SERVPRO® of Maui is Independently Owned and Operated.

Immediate Steps to Take to Prevent Home Flooding & Water Damage

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

If you are in Maui and your house is flooding, follow these tips to prevent the damages from being worse than they have to be.

One of the most common and serious types of emergencies your property can face is water damage. Whether the cause be a storm, flooding, an HVAC leak, a burst pipe, or anything else, the situation usually requires fast action for the sake of safety and defending your belongings and home. Here in Maui and the Big Island, flooding is always a risk. Act immediately to stop the damage, as the longer you wait, the more severe the damage will likely become. In today’s blog, we’ll be going over some crucial steps to take so you are ready for an emergency beforehand. However, if it’s already too late and water damage has already occurred, contact SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui ASAP to get the water damage mitigation and/or cleanup services you need.

Take Preventative Steps As Soon As Flooding Starts

In our previous post, we covered some things you can do to prevent water damage from flooding in your home long in advance. This blog covers steps to take once flooding starts. If a storm is already occurring or is imminent, follow these steps to minimize water damage to your property:

• Check and clean downspouts and gutters — Regularly clearing debris from your drains is important for preventing water buildup during a storm. 
• Use sandbags — Block off any gaps that could lead to flooding with sandbags.
• Move valuables to a higher location — Items such as electronics, furniture, rugs, and other valuables should all be moved to above the flood line if water damage is imminent.

• Take videos and photos of flooding — While this won’t prevent water damage now, it will help you with your flood insurance claim later on. 

Ultimately, defense against water damage from flooding is best achieved long in advance through proper precautions. If you are under flood warning, it’s important to consider your own safety before the safety of your belongings. Depending on the type of flood, you should either evacuate, move to higher ground, or stay where you are. Local news, EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, etc. provide recommendations before a storm. 

Restoring Your Maui Property Following Water Damage

It can take time to restore your house back to its previous condition following flooding. To make sure water damage restorations are most effective, turn to the water damage mitigation and cleanup experts at SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui. We will handle all aspects of your property’s restoration, as well as the immediate mitigation of damages, so as much of your property is salvaged as possible. If you are on the Big Island of Hawaii and your property has suffered serious water damage, the expert restoration and cleanup team at SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui are here to help. Contact us today for 24/7 emergency services or to ask a question regarding water damage cleanup or flood prevention.

Guide to Preventing Flood Damage in Your Home — Part II

1/4/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration Maui: Prevent Flood Damage — Part II

In part I of this series, we covered a few different things to consider to prevent flood damage in your home. Specifically, we went over the following preventative measures:

• Foundation maintenance
• Location planning
• Using your landscape for flood protection

Today, we will consider exploring more ways to protect your property from flood damage. 

If your property has already been damaged by a flood and you are looking for cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui offers 24/7 emergency support. Contact us today to mitigate damages promptly or to speak to a technician about any questions you may have. 

(808) 329-6560

Understand Your Risks

The extent of preparation justly called for regarding flooding is tied to the level of risk your region faces to flooding. Here in Hawaii, anywhere along the coast is typically going to be at a higher risk of flooding. To get an accurate understanding of the risk of living where you live, use the FEMA Flood Map. 

Get Flood Preventing Renovations

If you are living in a flood-prone area, it may be a good idea to renovate your house so that it is better capable of withstanding the rising tide, so as to minimize flood damage. Here are a few ways to do that:

• Put your home on stilts or piers — While this can be expensive, it can provide substantial long-term protection to your house. Ideally, new builders will do this for homes already in high-flood risk areas.
• Apply sealants and coatings — A far less expensive option is to coat your foundation, walls, doorways, windows, etc. with a sealant to prevent floodwater from getting inside even during times when the tide is higher than ground-level.
• Get a sump pump and/or foundation vents — Doing this provides your house places for water that gets into your house to go to reduce damages.
• Grade your lawn away from your house — When your lawn tilts away from your house, it channels surface runoff out and away from it instead of pooling it around it.
• Raise electrical outlets/switches — Electrical damage from flooding can be enormously expensive. Making sure all outlets, sockets, circuit breakers, and so on are at least a foot above flood damage can save you a lot of money in case your home gets flooded. 
• Point your downspout away from your property — Here’s one that’s totally free: double-check to make sure that all your downspouts are directed away from your house and that after water goes down them they have channels that take them away from your property. 

Next Time

We hope these tips have been useful for you, in considering how to best prepare for flood in the long term. In our next blog post, we’ll be looking at preventative steps you can take once flooding starts to actually occur. Time is of the essence! Don’t let yourself get caught in torrential rain or under the rising tide without being prepared. 

However, if you find the worst happening to you, know SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is always here to help. Our team of cleanup and restoration technicians are trained, certified, and highly experienced in what we do. If you have a water emergency or would like to schedule a service at your home, please reach out to us at 808-961-6560. We are available 24/7.

Guide to Preventing Flood Damage in Your Home — Part I

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

If you are on the Big Island of Hawaii and have suffered severe flood damage, contact SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui for water damage cleanup today.

Imagine if your whole life was suddenly washed away in a single day. It may sound terrible, but this grim reality occurs to thousands of homeowners each and every year. Fortunately, there are some preventative measures you can leverage to prevent your home from flooding — saving your belongings and yourself from a very stressful situation. This blog, brought to you by SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui, lays out some of the ways you can prevent flood damage. 

Has your home already been flooded and you’re looking for water damage cleanup here on the Big Island? Our restoration company is here to provide you with the fast, effective services you need to mitigate damages and get your home back to its normal condition. Reach out to us today for emergency services or if you have any questions about what we can do to help now!

(808) 329-6560

Examine Your Foundation

When it comes to mitigating flood damage, we should always start with the basics. In this case, that means protecting your foundation by fixing any cracks in your basement that risk letting water seep in overtime and becoming increasingly larger and more dangerous. Many people think a flood is always going to be something dramatic such as a hurricane or a typhoon, yet in many cases, a leak or a drip can end up being just as damaging. To address cracks in your foundation, all you need is some masonry caulk and mortar. After fixing any cracks, keep an eye on it over time. If you see cracks continue to get progressively worse, it’s a good idea to get professional assistance. 

Consider Your Location

While we are mostly concerned in this guide with protecting your home from flooding in an immediate way, this point is more strategic and long-term in its nature. That is to say, the best way to ensure that one’s home is not flooded is to live in an area where flooding is uncommon, or at least where communities are designed and tested against the natural threats of their particular climate adequately. Of course, we don’t always have lots of choices when it comes to our homes’ locations. One useful resource we can turn to when considering a new home is the interactive FEMA flood map, which categorizes different regional zones on a scale from mostly safe to high risk of flooding. These maps can also be relevant for those who currently don’t have flood insurance and want to understand how relevant that type of insurance would be for them based on their location and risk factors. 

Use Landscaping for Flood Protection

More immediately implementable flood protection is to design and/or modify your landscape with this goal in mind. This is one of the best ways of keeping your home safe. Ditches and other features designed for channeling rainwater away from your building are also very useful for preventing flooding. Be sure to keep your landscape clean — including property features such as downspouts and gutters. If these get clogged with debris, they’re not going to function as efficiently, risking putting your home in line for potential water damage.

Continue Reading in Part II

Read part II of this two-part article series to learn more about how you can prevent your property for flooding.

When preparing for the worst, it may seem like a pointless waste of time. Even if your region’s risk of flooding is only 1%, it’s still worth taking seriously, as to not prepare is to leave yourself subject to greater damages when that 1% becomes a reality. 

If the worst does happen to you, SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is here to help. Our team of cleanup and restoration technicians are trained, certified, and highly experienced in what we do. If you have a water emergency or would like to schedule a service at your home, please reach out to us at 808-961-6560. We are available 24/7.

5 Useful Water Damage Mitigation Tips

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui provides high-quality water damage restoration services to homeowners all around the Big Island of Hawaii. Contact us anytime.

There is only so much water damage mitigation you can do on your own. At the end of the day, when water damage is causing you problems, you need professional help FAST to get it cleaned up and your property restored. If you are on the Big Island of Hawaii and are struggling with some serious water damage, contact SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui for the high-quality water damage cleanup and restoration services you need. Our number is (808) 329-6560, and we are available for 24/7 emergency services. 

When your property has suffered a burst sewer line, a pipe that is leaking, or a natural disaster, it can often leave your home severely water damaged. In such situations, it is critical to identify the cause and act quickly to prevent further destruction. 

It can be enormously stressful to deal with water damage, with it potentially leading to all other sorts of problems down the line. While it’s important to get repairs done by professionals, there are a few things you can do to help limit water damage where possible as well. In today’s blog, we’ll be discussing five DIY water damage restoration tips you can use to immediately begin addressing water damage in your home. 

What Can Water Damage Impact?

Water is crucial for life, but when it gets somewhere it’s not meant to be, it can cause all sorts of destruction. As a homeowner, you should understand what parts of your property are most at risk for water damage. After a storm, flooding, or other type of water damage, always be sure to inspect the following components:

• Drywall
• Insulation
• Wood
• Framing
• HVAC
• Pipes
• Floor coverings
• Etc.

How Severe Are the Damages?

To determine if it’s a water cleanup job you can do by yourself or you should hire a specialist for can be determined by evaluating a number of key factors:

• Water Volume — If you have the right tools, when there is only a small amount of water, you can often manage it on your own. Significant flooding, on the other hand, means it’s time to call a professional. 
• Source of Damages — Certain types of water, such as blackwater and gray water, need to be handled with care, as they may contain contaminants or other health hazards. 
• Severity of Damages — Light damage can generally be handled by homeowners, while significant damage can require more expeditious care and accurate repairs. For example, flooding on an upper floor can lead to water seeping through the floor and into the ceiling in the floor below, causing greater and greater damage the longer it goes unmitigated. 

5 Tips for DIY Water Damage Restoration in Your Home

After getting a picture of the situation, consider the following tips to ensure repairs are done quickly. Be aware that wet materials can start developing mold growth in a day, so there’s little time to wait!

#1: Disconnect Outlets

One of your first priorities after water damage in your home has occurred is to unplug all electronics in the vicinity immediately. You may not yet see the full extent of the water damage, and it’s important to be careful. If electronics become damaged, repairs will generally take longer and be more expensive, with the need for hiring an electrician.

#2: Start Addressing Mold

If you see mold starting to form, there are a few things you can do right away to mitigate it. When it’s a small area, you can cut it out of the wall and dispose of it. It’s also important to stop any air flow in the area to prevent further spread before a mold specialist can stop the contamination. 

#3: Start the Drying Process

While you may not have access to industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and other dry-out equipment that water damage cleanup companies such as SERVPRO do, you can start the dry out process right away. Properly drying out an area will help lessen the damage.

#4: Remove Damaged Materials

Avoid mildew by removing materials such as rugs and insulation that have become waterlogged. Consider focusing on floors and ceilings first, as these areas are the most at risk of causing serious structural damage. 

#5: Disinfect the Area

Water in your home is an open invitation for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive. Once you remove the damaged materials, disinfecting the area is important to prevent mold and other potentially health-damaging issues before the restoration process fully commences. Spray surfaces with bleach and wipe them down. 

Get Professional Water Damage Restoration Services in Hawaii

If you are looking for guidance or professional help with water damage beyond what you can handle on your own, contact the experts at SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui for 24/7 support. When your property has suffered water damage, we’re here to get it cleaned up and restored ASAP, saving you on stress and expenses. Don’t wait — get started today! 

With proper care, we can restore your home back to normal. We follow the comprehensive SERVPRO method for water restoration. Don’t let the expenses or the health hazards become too great — call us now to get the support you need for your home!

(808) 329-6560

Most Common Forms of Water Damage

11/2/2020 (Permalink)

Avoid water damage

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is your go-to water damage cleanup company on the Big Island of Hawaii. We don’t only clean up water damage, we also offer water damage restoration services 24/7. Our goal is to deal with water damage as soon as it occurs and return your property to the state it was in before, as if no damage had occurred. 

We specialize in dealing with all different types of water damage. In today’s blog, we’ll be discussing the 3 main categories of water damage, referencing some of the most common types of damage that occur in each category. If your property is suffering water damage of any kind, contact SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui today!: (808) 329-6560.

3 Categories of Water Damage

Water damage can occur from your pipes, from external flooding, and from many other sources. For a water restoration company like ourselves, it is important to know what the source of the water is, but equally important to know what kind of water we’re dealing with. There are three categories of water damage:

• Clean water damage
• Grey water damage
• Black water damage

#1: Clean Water Damage

As you might guess because of the name, clean water damage — which is Category 1 on the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification’s (IIRC) scale — includes water damage from things such as broken pipes, sinks, overflowing bathtubs, appliances, and water supply lines. This is the least severe type of water damage, as it involves “clean water”, i.e., water free from sewage or toxins. Any of your belongings, carpeting, walls, etc. that are damaged by category 1 water damage is likely to be able to be dried out without any major problems later on. 

#2: Grey Water Damage

Category 2 water damage involves “grey water.” Grey water includes water from washing machines, sump pump backups, and toilets. This category of water damage is unlikely to be harmful to humans, but it may contain chemicals and waste that could prove harmful down the line. 

#3: Black Water Damage

The final category of water damage entails “black water”. This is the most extreme type of water damage, and action must be swift to mitigate serious health effects. Black water entails things such as seawater, groundwater, sewage, and other types of flooding. After your property suffers from black water damage, it will require significant renovation and disinfecting. 

A Solution for All Types of Water Damage on the Big Island

If you are on the Big Island of Hawaii and your property has suffered any of these three kinds of water damage, the expert restoration and cleanup team at SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui are here to help. We offer sewage cleanup for category 3 water damage, along with general water removal for all different types of properties. Contact us today to learn more about how our water restoration process can help you!

5 Steps for Choosing a Water Damage Restoration Company

10/13/2020 (Permalink)

Has your property been damaged by water? While acting fast is critical to prevent further damages, it’s worthwhile to weigh your options before you make the call. When it comes to your water cleanup, you need water restoration experts you can count on on the job, not some amateurs. 

There is no time to waste going around and getting estimates from one water restoration company then the next. The longer you wait, the worse the damages will get, and the more the estimates will likely go up. What you need more than anything is a team with a well-established reputation for excellence, that can quickly and accurately assess the damage, and begin repairs pronto. 

If you own or manage a residential or commercial property in Maui, be prepared for the fact that at some point in the not too distant future, there’s a good chance you will encounter some form of water damage. While it’s still not an emergency, please check out the SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui testimonials page to read what our customers are saying. 

Have you encountered water damage and it is an emergency? Reach out to us now and we’ll get someone over to your property for an assessment in an hour or less. 

Request Help Online    Call: (808) 329-6560

How to Find the Right Water Restoration Service

Here are five tips for picking a water cleanup and restoration service in Maui:

#1: Include it in your insurance plan

Sometimes it’s required by local regulars to have water damage coverage in your homeowners or business insurance. However, even if it is not required, it’s always a good idea here in Maui. You never know when water damage will occur; it’s best to be prepared and protected in advance — and that definitely includes making sure you have the insurance coverage you need, otherwise you may be hit with a hefty bill after an emergency.

#2: Make sure the professional water cleanup team is licensed

Both national and regional governments have accreditation programs set up to help regulate the water restoration industry and give property owners greater confidence in the reliability of the water restoration experts they hire. You can read about SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui’s license here. Our company also has the following certifications:

• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician

#3: Understand the costs of restoration beforehand

The costs of water damage repair can vary widely, depending on the type and extent of damages. Be prepared for the fact that urgent work will typically come with a premium price. However, what typically comes with an even greater price is putting off service and allowing the water damage to get worse before you get it dried, cleaned up, and restored. 

#4: Ask for a referral

Customers that are satisfied with the restoration work that has been done will often give positive reviews. After reading through our testimonials, reach out to us if you would like to speak with a past customer regarding things such as the speed and quality of the restoration. 

#5: Make sure the restoration company offers 24/7 service

Water damage doesn’t wait for normal business hours to strike, and it’s usually important to act immediately to address the potential damages. That’s why SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui — locally owned and operated by Brian Konishi and his family — provide the Big Island of Hawaii and Maui with 24/7 emergency response to any part of the island. We have an office in Kona and warehouses in both Kona and Hilo, so are able to respond rapidly to anywhere on the island. 

We have decades of experience working with insurance companies, helping make the difficult cleanup and restoration process as smooth and painless as possible for our customers. We respond to a lot of water and fire damage situations, as well as instances of mold damage.

Disaster Planning Isn’t Fun, But It Will Help You Save

When you’re dealing with a sewage leak, flooding, or another type of water damage, contact SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui for 24-hour emergency service. We are:

• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated

Call us today at (808) 329-6560 to get started or to ask us any questions to prepare you for what more to expect from water damage. 

The Most Important Step in Water Damage Restoration

9/30/2020 (Permalink)

When you call a water restoration company such as SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui to assess a water-damaged property, our goal is to create a plan of action and then implement it to restore your home to how it was before the water damage occurred. One of the most crucial steps in our water damage restoration process is the dry out. 

Due to the fluid nature of water, it can get deep into your drywall, your baseboards, and all kinds of other places. When there is a water damage emergency in your Maui house, simply airing out a room or using a fan is not likely to be sufficient to dry out an area before it becomes seriously water damaged. It’s always best to call a certified water mitigation specialist to come examine your property, make a plan of action, and then begin the dry out process.

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui offers residents and businesses all over the region 24-hour emergency restoration services. Our locally owned and operated water damage repair and restoration company responds fast to all sorts of water damage, knowing that time is of the essence, and can make the difference between minor surface damage and major structural damage. Contact us online or call (808) 329-6560 to get help!

The Water Damage Dry Out Process

In most cases, one of the most important parts of the repair and restoration process following water damage is the dry out. The dry out is all about one thing: MITIGATION. Before any restoration can really begin, it’s important to get your home dry in order to stop the damage from continuing to worsen. For safety reasons, as well as for mitigating mold growth and preventing structural damage, getting your property dry fast is crucial. Our water restoration company uses equipment such as industrial-strength fans and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry your property, both the surface and, more importantly, the deeper, more structural parts of the building. If your insurance covers water damage restoration, which it usually does, it will also often require you get the dry out started as soon as possible — so it is in both your private and your financial interest to get the house dry as soon as possible. 

After getting your home ready for the dry out process by turning off the power, checking for any gas leaks, and making sure the building is still structurally sound and safe to work in, we begin the process of drying. As a start, opening windows and using professional equipment to promote air flow is important for drying things out. 

What tends to drag out the dry out process the longest are areas such as insulation, wallpaper, and backboards. These areas are particularly good at creating a “seal” that holds moisture in the walls. There are a number of methods we can implement to help these areas dry out faster. 

When drying out your home, containment is a top priority. Our dry out crew approaches the project with the goal of halting further damage, and prioritize containment and damage reduction to your home. 

Get Professional Water Damage Restoration Services in Maui

The dry out process involves a number of steps and strategies, depending on how your home has been damaged by water. To prevent your home from becoming permanently impacted by water damage, it’s vital to hire professional restoration specialists to implement water damage repair and restoration techniques. Whether the water damage has been caused by a plumbing issue or by a storm, acting immediately to get the water dried out and the restoration underway can be the difference between an expensive bill that you have to pay and a less expensive bill that is covered by your insurance. For a stress-free claims process, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process. Call for details.

Hire SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui for water damage restoration now!

Contact Online     Call: (808) 329-6560

How to Avoid Water Damage During Major Storms

9/29/2020 (Permalink)

From June 1st till November 30th, tropical hurricanes are in-season off the coast of Hawaii. Throughout the hurricane season (as well as for the off-season, when hurricanes can still occur), residents of Hawaii are advised to stay informed and have a plan of action for the eventuality of a storm. One part of that plan is preparing your home for potential water damage.

The most important parts of planning for a storm are emergency evacuation plans and having enough supplies. 

• Have a personal/family emergency plan in place, where you know what to do and where to go in an emergency
• Have an emergency kit with enough supplies for two weeks. For helpful guidelines for creating your kit, visit health.hawaii.gov. 

However, after emergency preparation is in place, it’s important to secure your home from the more common occurrence of water damage. In today’s guide, we will be going over some ways you can avoid water damage to your home during major storms in Maui. Yet sometimes, despite your best efforts, water damage still occurs from a storm. If your home has been damaged by a storm, leak, or has suffered some other form of water damage, contact SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui to get storm damage cleanup and restoration services. 

Call (808) 329-6560

5 Ways to Avoid Water Damage in Your Hawaii Home

Storms cause damage to your home in two separate ways — through water, and through wind. Water damage from storms can occur directly through rain or through the sewer system becoming flooded, leading to water seeping into your property in all sorts of different ways. Here’s what you can do to reduce the impact of storms on your home:

#1: Caulk Around Windows & Doors

The wind from storms can lead to a surprising amount of force — so much so that it actually can push water in through all sorts of small cracks and holes around your windows and doors. One simple and effective way of preventing this is to apply a layer of caulk around all potential gaps in your home. 

#2: Repair Problems with the Foundation

If your foundation has cracks or holes, it can lead to water damage getting in your basement, your crawlspace, and other parts of your home. It’s easy to forget about these areas, which is even worse, as it can mean you leave the water undetected in them for long periods of time, leading to all sorts of potentially serious foundational damage. It’s a good idea to get your foundation inspected regularly for cracks and holes, and get them fixed before the next big storm hits. 

#3: Secure Your Property 

Keep your gutters clear and secure outdoor furniture and other belongings in a secure location. In severe storms, all these materials can be blown away or into your home, causing first direct property damage and often expensive water damage as well. If a storm is imminent, make sure you place your patio furniture and other loose items in secure locations where they won’t be able to cause damage or get blown away. 

#4: Move Any Items Easily Damaged By the Storm Above Flood Level

Move any and all items that could easily be damaged out of harm’s way. This may include items such as important paperwork, electronics, and so on. If the storm is extreme, it may be a good idea to have a separate location to store important valuables, so they don't get damaged. As an extra warning, don’t store important documents in your basement! If the basement floods, they easily can be irreversibly damaged. 

#5: Shut Off At-Risk Electronics

Any electronic devices or electrical services that could become underwater during a storm, turn them off! Doing so may be moderately inconvenient for the time being, but the damage to your electrical system by water can be extreme. Electronics such as printers and computers should be elevated. 

After the Storm

Following the aforementioned tips can help keep your home safe from water damage during a flood. However, sometimes despite your best efforts, extreme weather can lead to water damage in your home. When that happens, SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is here to help. We offer residential and commercial storm damage repair, restoration, and cleanup services. Floods and storms don’t only hit between 9 and 5, so we make ourselves available 24/7 for rapid response to your location. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is a trusted leader in the water restoration industry, and has the experience and resources to get your property dry and back to its pre-storm condition. Learn more about our water damage restoration techniques here. If you are in Kailua-Kona or anywhere else in Maui and would like to hire a locally owned water restoration company, contact us online or at (808) 329-6560 today!

Protect Your Home & Health by Getting a Mold Inspection

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Here in Hawaii, mold is a part of life — being particularly common here due to our high humidity levels. If your property has any of the following conditions, arranging a mold inspection is most likely a good idea:

• A damp or musty smell
• Water stains
• Discoloration
• Growth appearing on the walls and ceilings
• Leaking pipes, drains, or faucets
• A rusty or damaged roof

None these issues are signs you should ignore. Ignoring mold growth could lead to both structural damage to your home as well as damage to your health, before you know it. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui offers 24-hour emergency mold remediation. Just as mold never takes a day off — being able to develop in as little as 48 hours after water damage — neither do our mold remediation technicians. As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, rely on your locally owned and operated professionals to eliminate mold, save your belongings, improve your air quality, and eliminate bad odors. Call us today to address your mold problem: (808) 329-6560.

What Is Mold?

Mold is everywhere — in your carpet, in the air, outside, in your vents, and on your clothes. Normally, it’s not much of a problem for us, serving a role in the world’s ecosystem, breaking down organic matter and recycling it into their base material; contributing to nature’s life cycle. Mold spores can become a problem in your home or office when there is moisture build-up. When exposed to water, mold reproduces rapidly and can create colonies that can have negative impacts on the structure of your home and health. Mold spores can trigger health effects for everyone on the property. Mold may be a particularly significant health risk for the elderly, children, and anyone with respiratory problems. 

Besides its health and structural risks, mold also can create very unpleasant odors. Since the average humidity levels in Hawaii are 63%, and mold tends to start to grow at humidity levels above 45%, it’s a good idea to keep humidity below 45% indoors, if possible. 

How to Address Your Mold Problem

You can reduce humidity levels in your home with a dehumidifier, but not everyone has such a luxury. When it comes to mold formation in your home, it’s best to rely on professional mold remediation experts to deal with the growth. Avoid touching or disturbing the mold, and don’t attempt to try the area yourself or spray it with any chemicals. All you should do is avoid the affected areas, turn off your HVAC systems and fans, and contact SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui to come by for mold remediation services.

If you suspect your home has a mold problem, SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is here to help. Our locally owned mold remediation company has the experience, training, and equipment to comprehensively manage your mold problem. 

Call us at (808) 329-6560 to get started!

Our Fire Damage Restoration Process

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

If you have experienced fire damage, you most likely want to get your property restored as soon as possible. You should never try and remediate or restore your property on your own after a disaster occurs; you should always rely on a restoration professional with fire damage repair to get the job done properly, efficiently, and safely. If you are in Maui or on the Big Island, SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is here to get your property back to or better than it was before the fire. Contact us today to schedule regular or emergency cleanup & restoration services. 

Our Process

The process for dealing with fire and water restoration are different, though they also have many similarities. In today’s blog, we start by providing an overview of our process of rebuilding and repairing properties after fire damage. 

No single fire damage restoration process is the same either, which is one reason why you shouldn’t do it on your own. Hire experts who know how to save as much of your property and restore it as completely as possible. 

Fire Damage Restoration Process

1. Confirm that the property is safe to enter — Before any fire damage repair can begin, we scrutinize your property for structural damage from the outside. No work can begin until your home is deemed safe to enter by an inspector. 
2. Inspect Damages — Once the property has been deemed safe to enter, our professionals carefully inspect and test rooms to determine the full extent of the fire, smoke, and soot damage. This step gives us the information we need to create a plan of action. 
3. Board up windows and place tarp on damaged roofs — To maintain security and protect against further damages, SERVPRO professionals may board up missing windows and walls and put a tarp on your damaged roof. 
4. Minimize the damage — One of the reasons why it’s important to call a professional restoration company as soon as possible after a fire has occurred is to minimize damages. Certain things, such as soot staining, can be reduced in impact if addressed soon enough. If left for too long, it can lead to permanent discoloration of sensitive materials such as carpeting, textiles, wood, and metals.
   
   Mitigating damages may involve carpet cleaning, and it may also involve things such as mold removal as well. Why would there be mold in your home after a fire? If there has been a wildfire, the fire extinguishing process can cause mold and mildew to quickly form in your home. Water damage can be caused when a fire is put out, which is one reason why the mold and mildew remediation process should begin as soon as possible to minimize damages. It is common for us to utilize dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water and complete the drying process. 
   
   Another type of damage that can occur from a fire is rust and corrosion on metal surfaces. Air quality is also a major concern after a fire. Addressing smoke issues in your commercial or residential property is important to do quickly before surfaces have time to absorb so much smoke that furniture or other surfaces can no longer be saved from having a permanent odor. The sooner you reach out to a restoration professional, the higher the chances are for a complete restoration. 
5. Soot & debris removal — Before we can begin with fire damage or water damage restoration, we remove all debris and soot from the home. The longer soot remains in your home, the more damage it can cause, while debris will only get in the way of the restoration process. Removing these will also help improve air quality and the smell of smoke. One thing that sets SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui apart from all other fire restoration companies in Maui & on the Big Island is our thorough, multifaceted cleaning services. Read more about our cleaning services here.
6. Cleaning & sanitizing — Deep cleaning, stain removal, sanitizing, and deodorizing are all important parts of any restoration. Depending on how deeply the smoke has penetrated surfaces will determine which type of cleaning product and processes are used. Carpets, curtains, and other types of fabrics typically call for extra attention to prevent them from being ruined. We will typically be able to tell if an item can be restored or not after the initial inspections. 
7. Repairs & renovation — After cleaning and sanitizing your property, it is finally ready to undergo repairs and restoration. 

• Walls are repainted (after we scrape off blistering paint on ceilings and walls)
• Wood surface are re-sealed or striped, sanded, and refinished
• Anything else that can be repaired is repaired
  
  The tragedy of a fire is often a good impetus for renovating your property. Sometimes the damage is so extensive that it’s the best option anyway. The act of renovating a property after serious fire damage is like a rebirth; it’s a chance to distance yourself from the traumatic experience and recreate your house anew. The experienced contractors at SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui are able to work with you every step of the way to get your property as good as or better than it was before the fire. 

Schedule a Fire Damage Restoration Consultation

The process of restoring your home or business after fire damage will depend on the severity of the damages along with many other factors. We hope this guide has given you a general idea of what the process will look like, however. Fire damage restoration involves a whole a lot more than simply having everything the fire touched cleaned and repaired. Fire can impact almost every part of your home, from your foundation to your shingles. 

Knowing what to keep and what to get rid of can be tough to do on your own. You want to keep as much as possible, but some things are too far gone to be repaired. Hire a company that offers the tools and abilities you need to get as much of your home back as possible after fire damage. SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui, serving Maui & the Big Island, is here to take care of your entire property restoration for you. We take care of the entire home for you. Contact us ASAP so we can get started restoring your home now! We offer free consultations for home and business owners — obligation-free. Call now to get started or find answers to any of your questions.

Our Water Damage Restoration Process

9/9/2020 (Permalink)

There are six steps to the SERVPRO water damage restoration process. In today’s blog, we will be covering each of those steps in detail, giving you the information you need to understand what your restoration will look like and how working with SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui will help you save money while getting high-quality repairs. We follow a scientific approach to removing water, cleaning up damages, and documenting the process from beginning to end. If you are in Maui or on the Big Island, SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is here to get your property back to or better than it was before the water damage. Reach out to us today to schedule cleanup & restoration services!

Get Emergency Service

Step #1: Call Now!

Seriously — if you are reading this and your home has recently suffered water damage, pick up your phone and call us ASAP. The cleanup and restoration process after water damage should not be put off. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become. That’s why the SERVPRO customer care center is open 24-hours a day. We are ready to respond immediately after you call us. When you call, the SERVPRO specialists will ask you several questions, including: 

•  Your name and contact information
•  Your insurance information (if applicable)
•  The street address of the water-damaged home or business
•  When did the flooding or water damage occur?
•  What caused the water damage (if known)?
•  Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Have this information ready so our team can start providing you the emergency water damage cleanup and repair services you need promptly and efficiently. 

Step #2: Inspection & Water Damage Assessment

After you make the call, our team will come to your property and conduct a detailed inspection of the damage. This gives us the information we need to determine the appropriate plan of action. During our survey, we:

• Look for the source of water and stop it
• Check for contaminated water
• Identify the type of water — white, gray, or black
• Survey the damages
• Complete a safety inspection
• Move your furniture and block items to help prevent stains, rust, mold, and other types of damage

Step #3: Water Removal

After inspecting the damage and moving objects out of harm’s way, we get started extracting the water from your home. We work hard and use special equipment to reduce the drying time, prevent mold, and minimize secondary water damage. We use trucks mounted with vacuums and powerful pumps to give us the ability to remove hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water from your property as fast as possible. 

At this stage, we also can conduct complete move-out services, to help prevent your belongings from becoming further damaged. During the removal process, we will inspect your carpet and floors for damages, and take quick action to prevent any further damage. 

Step #4: Drying & Dehumidification

After we have removed the majority of the water from your walls and floors, there will still be water absorbed into your wood, carpet, and drywall that needs to be addressed. It’s important to keep drying your home to try and prevent swelling, warping, and breakdown. SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui uses special dehumidifiers and monitoring equipment to carefully dry your home to acceptable levels, keeping a close eye on the moisture levels of your walls and floors.  

Step #5: Cleaning & Sanitizing

After your home is dried, it will most likely need professional cleaning treatment. That can involve a number of things, depending on the severity of the damages your property has suffered. We restore your home’s contents through a number of techniques, including:

•  Dry Cleaning
•  Wet Cleaning
•  Spray and Wipe
•  Foam Cleaning
•  Abrasive Cleaning
•  Immersion Cleaning

We implement the cleaning necessary to help save as much of your home from water damage as possible.

During this step, we will also identify and eliminate offensive odors with our industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment. This equipment is designed to help freshen the air and eliminate odors that even some of the toughest consumer-grade equipment cannot treat. 

Next, depending on the scenario, we will sanitize your home to eliminate bacteria, microbes, and other types of infectants, and also remove and dispose of material that has been damaged beyond repair. 

Why Choose SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui can handle the initial damages, mitigation of further damages, as well as rebuilding and restoring the area that has been water damaged. Having one company instead of many handling these processes can help save time and keep costs low. You will be dealing with a team that has been on the ground since day one, and who can provide you the full range of services your property needs to bring it back to full functionality. 

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is a locally owned and operated SERVPRO franchise owned by Brian Konishi and his family. Our company serves the entirety of the Big Island of Hawaii. With offices in Kona and warehouses in Kona and Hilo, we are able to reach any part of the Big Island quickly in cases of emergency. We are available for emergency services 24/7. Whether you are experiencing water damage, fire damage, or a severe mold problem, SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is here for you every step of the way. 

If your property has been or is currently being damaged by water, call SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui ASAP to get the emergency restoration services you need. For a stress-free claims process, we can help manage the insurance paperwork and process as well. In many cases, you won’t have to pay a dime. Call for details.

(808) 329-6560

**SERVPRO Hawaii now offers professional COVID-19 cleaning services. Our licensed professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination and chemical spills and always adhere to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities. If you are interested in a free quote for our commercial defensive cleaning services, or are you a consumer who wants to learn more about the program, call us today.

During these Extraordinary Circumstances

3/23/2020 (Permalink)

Keep calm and call SERVPRO poster

During these extraordinary circumstances we are still open and ready to help with your water damage emergencies. Pipes don't know we have a pandemic. We are fully trained and equipped to deal with bio-hazard cleaning, we can perform disinfecting clean-ups whether it is prevention or mitigation. We stay updated and respectful of all CDC and local Health Departments announcements. Health of our local community here on the Big Island, which we are a vital part of, is our mission. We hope you will stay healthy and practice social distancing. Help your close ones and your neighbors, we are one Big (Island) Ohana. If you have any questions regarding disinfecting cleaning or water/fire damage mitigation or even mold testing & remediation you call call us 24/7 at 808-329-6560

We are Cleaning Experts

3/16/2020 (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 Hawaii, 808-329-6560

Hotel Water Damage Mitigation

3/9/2020 (Permalink)

Hotel Corridor Drying After Water Damage

Hawaii is a number one tourist destination in the US which prompts a significant number hotels throughout the Islands. While we are vacationing and enjoying the relaxing pace of Hawaii lifestyle we tend to pay less attention to things we do pay attention while at home. That is why, many of us go on vacation. Hotels are our frequent customer, people clog the toilets and leave running water it seems almost daily. Maintenance staff if you pay attention is usually pretty busy taking in consideration our high occupancy rates. Small leaks are easily manageable by the hotel staff but we are still called to lend a helping hand and use our equipment. In February, we were called by the Hotel located on Hilo's waterfront to mitigate an overflowed tub that leaked water all the way down from the 12th floor down the stack of rooms to the 1st floor. Damage was caught fairly early, we have managed to dry the carpets in all the rooms and using access holes to the space in between the walls we have managed to dry also the behind the wall spaces. No job is to big for SERVPRO of Hawaii, we have an equipment to handle any size of the building. 

Home Fire Safety 101

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

In the event of a fire starting in your home, time is of the essence. Mere seconds can determine the severity of the damage that a fire can inflict upon your home. Therefore, preparing your home for the worst and having a fire emergency plan in place ahead of time is necessary in order to keep your home and those living in it as safe as possible during an emergency. Follow these guidelines in order to get the best understanding of each necessary element of fire protection for your home.

Smoke Alarms

Make sure that smoke alarms are installed on each level of your home. It may be extra beneficial to have one smoke alarm inside of every sleeping area in addition to the one alarm per level. It is very important that smoke alarms are tested regularly and that their batteries are changed yearly to make sure that they are functioning properly. Consider installing a central carbon monoxide detector in addition to smoke alarms in order to protect your home from deadly fumes.

Fire Extinguishers

Be sure that there is at least one fire extinguisher in your home that is easy to access in the event of a fire. The type of fire extinguisher recommended for household use is an ABC fire extinguisher, which can put out three different classes of fires. Class A covers trash, paper, and wood fires. Class B is for various liquids and gases. Finally, Class C is for fires emanating from electrical sources. Understand how to use your fire extinguisher beforehand so that you don’t have to waste time reading the directions during an actual emergency.

Enforce Safe Practices

Teach your children the dangers of playing with fire and keep matches as well as lighters in a secure location away from them at all times. Lastly, create a fire emergency plan with your family in order to have a predetermined escape route in the event of an emergency that your entire family can remember in case you become separated.

Must Have Resources for Fire Damage Remediation

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Fire! Fire! Fire!

Cleaning up Fire Damage in Your Home

Even the smallest of kitchen fires can cause long-lasting smoke odors and residue if not cleaned right away using the proper equipment and procedures. In older homes with many nooks and crannies in older neighborhoods of the Big Island, it may be even more challenging to deal with the lasting impact of a kitchen fire.

If you experience fire damage in Hawaii, you may require professional assistance to restore your home to its preloss condition. It is not always as simple as wiping down the walls and washing all the clothes in your closet. 

After ensuring the structure of your home is safe through inspection and boarding up walls if necessary, although unlikely in a small kitchen fire, SERVPRO restoration specialists assess the materials within your home to determine the appropriate cleaning methods. They also remove any contents such as upholstered furniture or clothing requiring deodorization and cleaning. 

Smoke residue can cause unexpected damage such as corroding finished surfaces, fiberglass, or Formica counter-tops if left unattended for too long. Any metal surfaces containing iron such as chrome trim, faucets or hardware, should be wiped off as quickly as possible to slow down any corroding that may occur. In addition to pre-cleaning by wiping the smoke residue off, coating it with lubricant may further protect the surface. 

Then, for surface cleaning, SERVPRO restorers may use detergent cleaners such as Wall and All Surface Cleaner (#351) for painted and washable surfaces. Heavy-duty alkaline solutions containing ammonia such as Industrial Cleaner (#357) are great for removing heavy grease and hard-to-remove soil most likely found at the source of the kitchen fire, for example under the range hood. It's important to note that you should not use this type of heavy-duty cleaner on any metal, enamel paint, or highly polished surfaces as the ammonia content may cause irreversible damage. 

Additional types of cleaners after a fire include liquid creme cleaners such as Stain Scrub (#110)  used to clean, polish, and deodorize hard surfaces, and strong acid cleaners such as Stone and Porcelain Cleaner (#355) to remove soot and smoke from stone and brick. It is essential to understand which of these chemical cleaning agents may react with each other before use. For example, acid cleaners should not come too close to cleaners containing bleach because a toxic chlorine gas could release, causing harm if inhaled. 

For prompt assistance cleaning your home and restoring it to preloss condition, contact SERVPRO of Hawaii at 808-329-6560. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Efflorescence on Concrete – Causes, Prevention and Removal

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Efflorescence in concrete wall

Causes for Formation of Efflorescence in Concrete

The formation of efflorescence in concrete is factored by many external factors.

1. Presence of salts in one of the materials of concrete. Commonly salts are found in the fine aggregate or sand taken from the river beds.
2. If the concrete is not cured properly, the hydration process is incomplete on which the un-hydrated products near the surface form the efflorescence on the surface of concrete.
3. Slow rate of evaporation of water allowing time for salts to permeate to the surface (this is why efflorescence tends to be more of a problem during the winter months; in summer, high temperatures may cause evaporation and hence depositing of salts within the concrete rather than on the surface)
4. If the water content in the concrete mix is more, it makes the concrete porous. Thus allowing the path for water and salts to come to the surface and for efflorescence.
5. In wet conditions such as rainy season, the surplus water acts as a medium for the salts to transport to the surface of concrete and form crystalline white powder.
6. Variability of concrete (compaction or curing) can result in localized problems where water can permeate more easily through the concrete.

Prevention of Efflorescence in Concrete

The preventive methods that can be used to avoid efflorescence in concrete are,

1. Inclusion of Class-F fly ash or metakaolin can lock up significant amounts of calcium hydroxide in the concrete.
2. Installing vapor barrier to prevent the movement of moisture from the sub grade to the surface of a slab.
3. Application of sealers and coatings can prevent surface water from penetrating slabs.
4. Waterproofing agents to be used to reduce permeability of concrete.
5. Making the concrete denser will reduce the permeability of concrete to a greater extent.
6. Preventing the  hardened concrete from exposure to moisture by maintaining surface sealers and site drainage, and from rising groundwater by placing a plastic membrane under slabs.
7. Avoiding the concrete from premature drying.
8. Use of concrete ingredient such as aggregate, cement and sand which contains very less amount of salts in it.

Removal of Efflorescence in Concrete

Before removal of efflorescence in concrete, the source for the cause for the efflorescence must be found out and tried to mitigate it. Further the removal of efflorescence can be done in 3 methods,

1. Pressurized Water

Efflorescence in the concrete can be removed using the pressurized water jet. Applying pressurized water may dissolve efflorescence quickly. But care must be taken that the water after  removing of efflorescence is completely dried off. If not dried, the same water can cause efflorescence to reappear.

2. Brushing

Some type of efflorescence that are easily removable can be easily removed using a stiff?bristle broom or brush. If the result is not satisfactory by dry brushing, scrub with clean water then lightly rinse the surface.

3. Dilute Acid Solution

Concentrated acid  is not recommended to be applied on concrete, diluted proportion of 1:20 is used. the surface in which the acid is applied must be moist but without any free water. The applied solution should be allowed to react on the concrete surface for 10 to 15 minutes. The surface should then be thoroughly rinsed and scrubbed with lots of clean water. Repeat rinsing at least twice or until all traces of the acid solution have been removed.

Applying of Coating to Prevent Efflorescence in Concrete

Clear water repellents, silicone and acrylic coatings also may help you remove efflorescence as well. The coating will absorb water across a masonry surface and prevent efflorescence from recurring. Plus, the combination of warm water and white wine vinegar has been shown to eliminate efflorescence.

Flood Damage Big Island – Large or Small Disasters

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Hawaii is well known for its exposure to natural disasters such as tornadoes and hurricanes. Flooding from these events causes millions of dollars in damage every year, and immense hardship for residents and visitors. We also have our share of fires, leaking pipes, and mold infestations that require remediation and restoration.

SERVPRO responds to flood damage on Big Island on a 24/7 basis. We also have teams ready to clean up after a fire, water damage from leaking pipes, and mold colonies that are out of control in our hot, humid climate. We have the experience, the training, the equipment, and commitment to our clients to make it right after a disaster of any size. We can mobilize large teams to respond to any size of event relying on SERVPRO teams from around the country.

Experience & Training

Our team has experience in dealing with many events on Big Island. We are IICRC certified (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, which is the non-profit certifying body for the cleaning and restoration industry). We also can tap into experts as needed. E.g., biohazard cleanup often required after a flood damage event.

Equipment

Responding to any size of event requires a multitude of equipment. We have truck mounted water extraction pumps, submersibles, mounted extractors, moisture sensors, drying equipment, and more. Whether it is cleaning up after a water leak or a flood, we clean and sanitize your home or business. We also have available the required chemicals to remove mold and contaminants as needed.

Commitment to Our Clients

We respond on a 24/7 basis within a four-hour time-frame. SERVPRO assesses the situation and mobilizes the team and equipment to mitigate the damage and minimize the time you are out of your home or business. We aim to return your premises to you, "Like it never even happened."

What to Do if There Is a Water Leak Around a Window

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Leaky Windows?

The natural elements can wear down the integrity of a home. Over time, the homeowner may notice leakage around a window, which can possibly result in wood rot, mold and water damage. The longer the leak is left unaddressed, the more the repairs will cost.

Locate the Problem

Even a slow drip can mean that more water is sitting inside the wall. Once a homeowner notices moisture trickling from a window when it rains, the first step is to carefully look at the wall around the area to find the source of the leak. However, thanks to gravity, appearances can be deceiving; liquid may pool in one place, but that place is not always the leak's origin.

Two common problem areas are the edge and the rubber seal. The gap between the edge and the surrounding wall is usually sealed with caulk. Eventually, the caulk dries out and begins to peel and chip. Like caulk, the rubber seal situated between the panes and frame can ultimately dry out, creating rips in the rubber.

Gauge the Severity of Damage

Depending on the severity of the damage, the window may need to be replaced. A replacement is usually warranted when decaying or softness is found on nearby surfaces. However, even if the surrounding surfaces seem to be structurally sound, the homeowner should not just re-caulk the gaps without getting an expert's opinion on the full extent of the damage.

SERVPRO of Hawaii Can Help

A specialist at SERVPRO Hawaii can determine whether any ceiling tiles or drywall have sustained damage. After he assesses the situation, the restoration technician will give the homeowner the best remediation option to make the damage disappear. By acting quickly, the homeowner can prevent expensive repairs in the future. SERVPRO of Hawaii is always ready to help the residents of the Big Island to solve their water damage problems.

Commercial Fire Damage Premiums for Grocery Stores

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

Factors That Determine Commercial Fire Premiums
    •    Building materials. The construction of your building and its current condition all influence your premium. Newer facilities and recent upgrades to HVAC and electrical components can also lower the cost of insuring your business.
    •    Inherent risk. The reason people come into your business can also affect your costs. Restaurants are well-known for having higher risks, while small niche retailers typically have a low risk of fire hazards.
    •    Protection measures. Fire alarms, sprinkler systems, fireproofing measures and having a fire hydrant or station nearby can lower your premiums.
    •    Proximity to risk. Criminal activity in the area, as well as the frequency of accidents and natural disasters, all have a bearing on your premium. Think about your location, especially if you are near businesses with higher fire risks, such as an oil refinery.

How SERVPRO Restores Your Business
Electrical fires are a frequent cause of grocery store fires, which can lead to the proliferation of odors and soot on surfaces. While inventory in the affected area may need to be removed, in many cases, the structure can be salvaged.

Technicians work from ceiling to floor, starting with dry cleaning measures and the removal of loose, dry soot deposits. Alkaline or acid cleaners may be used to address more substantial damage depending on the extent. Blast media, like ground corn cobs or soda ash, can address heavy charring on surfaces that respond little to other cleaning methods.

Why Choose a SERVPRO Professional?

2/28/2020 (Permalink)

We understand you have the choice in deciding which restoration company you want when disaster strikes. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. SERVPRO of Hawaii responds immediately and uses advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly. We closely monitor and document the drying process to verify your property is dried properly and thoroughly.

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster

SERVPRO of Hawaii is dedicated to responding immediately to water emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.

We're Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO specializes in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage restoration training with an emphasis on monitoring and documenting the drying process until completion.

• Water Damage Restoration Technician
• Applied Structural Drying Technicians

We Use Advanced Water Restoration Equipment and Techniques

Our advanced equipment helps to detect hidden moisture, extract the standing water quickly, and thoroughly clean and dry your home and belongings. We finish the job with professional deodorization and sanitizing agents for your comfort and safety.

When disaster strikes your home or business, get the professionals. Call SERVPRO of Hawaii 808-329-6560 today. 

SERVPRO Magic

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

We have been told by many of our clients that the work we do is like “magic.”  Everything is wet and then magically it’s dry and restored to its preloss glory. Much to our own disappointment, the team SERVPRO of Hawaii aren’t magicians and we don’t have a bright green magic wand. Our highly trained technicians are actually experts in the “science of drying." Drying is a complicated process that requires a working knowledge of psychrometry in order to fully dry a structure.  A psychrometer is a tool used to measure the humidity within the atmosphere. Water can damage structures through both direct contact and by being absorbed through moisture in the air. It is critical that the moisture content of the air be monitored to ensure the effectiveness of the drying methods being utilized. At SERVPRO of Hawaii, our team members have undergone rigorous training to become experts in the “science of drying.” Although we may not be magicians, we can work magic with technology and knowledge at our fingertips. If you experience a water damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Hawaii to make it "Like it never even happened."

We Know Property Management

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Hawaii, we work with a wide range of types of property managers.  The term property management is defined as:

The process of managing property that is leased to a tenant. This includes handling all of the day-to-day activities that are centered around this specified property. Properties may include residential, commercial and/or industrial real estate including single family dwellings, apartment complexes, hotel facilities, condominium units and shopping centers.  

We know that property management encompasses an exponentially large pool of possible remediation/maintenance scenarios. We have developed customized cleaning services to meet the needs of each vein of the property management industry. We have undergone additional training targeted towards facing the unique mitigation challenges that a large or multi-tenant property may present. We are also in the business of operating a business, so most importantly we understand that downtime means revenue lost. We have the experience to get any job, no matter how large, done quickly and efficiently. We also offer a free service to help you prepare for the unexpected. Our Emergency Ready Profile can help save time and money should you experience damage. Call our offices at 808-329-6560 for more information. 

Why SERVPRO is the right choice to make

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

All of our employees that enter your home are trained to safely clean and restore your home or business after it's faced a loss.

Below are the steps that we take for Cleaning and Restoring Your Home or Business in regards to a water loss:

- Identify the Source/ Type of Water

- Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis

- Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises for Hidden Moisture

- Perform Emergency Water Extraction

- Move and Block furniture and Contents

- Inspect Carpet Pad/Carpet and Provide Service

- Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)

- Utilize Advanced Drying and Monitoring Equipment

- Dispose of Refuse

All of our technicians are IICRC certified and have extensive knowledge about our services and equipment. Even if we can’t do the job we will help in finding a service who can handle it.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 808-329-6560

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Hawaii

SERVPRO of Hawaii specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa, Capt Cook, Hilo, HPP, Waimea Smoke and Soot Cleanup

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot is very invasive and can penetrate various cavities within your home, causing hidden damage and odor. Our smoke damage expertise and experience allows us to inspect and accurately assess the extent of the damage to develop a comprehensive plan of action.  

Smoke and soot facts:

• Hot smoke migrates to cooler areas and upper levels of a structure.
• Smoke flows around plumbing systems, seeping through the holes used by pipes to go from floor to floor.
• The type of smoke may greatly affect the restoration process.

Different Types of Smoke

There are two different types of smoke–wet and dry. As a result, there are different types of soot residue after a fire. Before restoration begins, SERVPRO of Hawaii will test the soot to determine which type of smoke damage occurred. The cleaning procedures will then be based on the information identified during pretesting. Here is some additional information:

Wet Smoke – Plastic and Rubber

• Low heat, smoldering, pungent odor, sticky, smeary. Smoke webs are more difficult to clean.

Dry Smoke – Paper and Wood

• Fast burning, high temperatures, heat rises therefore smoke rises.

Protein Fire Residue – Produced by evaporation of material rather than from a fire

• Virtually invisible, discolors paints and varnishes, extreme pungent odor. 

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire and smoke damage.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – 808-329-6560

Restoring Your Kailua-Kona Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at County of Hawaii commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Hawaii

SERVPRO of Hawaii specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Why SERVPRO®? Deeply Invested in You, Your Family, Your Business, Your Community

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

When you need a leading franchisor of residential and commercial property damage restoration services, you need and want the best. So, why SERVPRO®? We’re deeply invested in you, your family, your business, your community. And that’s exactly who and what SERVPRO of Hawaii.

Speaking of deeply invested, Blackstone is deeply invested in SERVPRO®. On March 26, 2019, according to SERVPRO’s blog post, “SERVPRO® and Blackstone (NYSE:BX) announced that private equity funds managed by Blackstone (“Blackstone”) have recapitalized SERVPRO®, a leading franchisor of residential and commercial property damage restoration services. Blackstone is acquiring a majority stake in SERVPRO® as part of Blackstone’s Core Private Equity strategy, which is designed to hold investments for much longer periods of time than traditional private equity.” This is just one other reason “why SERVPRO®.” If Blackstone, the world's leading investment firms, a multi-billion dollar investment company, strategically chose to invest in SERVPRO®, why wouldn’t you?! This speaks volumes. In fact, Peter Wallace, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone, said, “We are excited to make this investment …”

SERVPRO® of Hawaii is continually investing and reinvesting our resources so we can better serve our customers, to fulfill our vision of becoming the premier cleaning and restoration company, which affords us the opportunity to be there for you, for your family, for your business, for your community in your time of need. We are constantly making strategic decisions and moves for our continued success, future growth. It’s all about growth. David Kestnbaum, Managing Director at Blackstone, said, “SERVPRO® is a high-quality company with a strong management team and great long-term prospects. We look forward to working with SERVPRO® and its franchisees to help fuel the business’ next phase of growth.” We are humbled and blessed for this strategic partnership with Blackstone.

The next time your home or business needs property damage restoration services, give us the opportunity to best serve you, your family, your business, your community, so you can tell us your why. Your next fire damage, water damage, mold damage, storm damage … we’ll make it "Like it never even happened."® Why SERVPRO®? Because we are deeply invested in you, your family, your business, your community. Will you give us your next restoration job? Call 808-329-6560 to do so. We thank you in advance.  

Clueless After A Fire Loss?

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

Don't Know What To Do After A Commercial Fire Loss? It's Okay We've Got You Covered!

In your lifetime, you must have heard about, seen, or experienced a fire tragedy. Fire is usually accidental, apart from a few instances of arson, but once it hits a building, the outcome is enormous grief. When a fire hits a business premise, among the first persons you see are local firefighters. A firefighter responds quickly to the scene and he/she arrives with colleagues in a fire truck that contains the necessary equipment such as a fire hose to carry out the fire suppression.

Commercial fire damage can pull your business steps behind, and in order to avoid that, you need to call fire restoration experts as soon as possible. Commercial fire damage mostly results from electrical fires and with it; comes soot damage and smoke damage. The firefighters in their fire suppression efforts also cause water damage. The water comes from the fire hose, a long flexible tube that is part of the fire truck. The fire hose utilizes high pressure pumping to put out the fire.

As a result, the ordinary tools commonly used for janitorial services cannot handle a commercial fire damage. You need to call a fire restoration company to mitigate the fire damage. A professional fire restoration company has qualified and experienced personnel with the right equipment to handle any commercial fire damage incidence. These experts should be called not long after a fire suppression has been carried out to avoid further damage to your business premises.

Fire damage resulting from electrical fire can be very hectic to deal with especially if it is a utility room fire. Therefore, it is imperative for the fire restoration process to be handled appropriately. The firefighters are also adequately trained to carry out fire suppression processes in any setting regardless of whether it is a utility room fire or an electrical fire. The firefighters use fire trucks fitted with the appropriate equipment to put out any fire in a commercial property.

Apart from fire damage, the restoration company you call also has the capacity to trace the hidden damages such as smoke damage and soot damage. Failure to handle smoke and soot damage can shift the damages from primary to secondary. Once the smoke damages have reached a secondary level, they may result to the closure of your business.

The fire restoration experts advice those who own commercial properties to install a fire sprinkler system in their buildings. The fire sprinkler system can be quite effective especially if it’s a utility room fire. Just like a fire hose, the fire sprinkler system releases water under pressure to put off the fire within a room in the building. Therefore, the fire sprinkler system could save you from huge losses especially when a utility room fire strikes because most of the things stored in a utility room are of value to your business.

Fire damage incidences are caused by a number of factors, the most common being electrical fires. Regardless of the cause, the restoration company experts follow the same process to rid your premises of fire, soot, and smoke damage. This process entails six steps, and they are as follows.
• Emergency Contact: The first step involves you calling the professional experts to remedy the damages.
• Assessing the damages: The skilled experts inspect your commercial property to determine the extent of fire, smoke, and soot damage
• Boarding up and roof tarp service: When fire strikes your commercial property, the roof, walls, and windows are damaged. The professionals put in tarpaulin to prevent more damage.
• Removing and drying the water: In their fire suppression efforts, firefighters leave water from the fire truck that could cause further damage if not removed.
• Removal of smoke and soot: Fire tragedies leave behind soot and smoke damage and it is vital to remove the smoke and soot from all the surfaces.

Call SERVPRO of Hawaii 808-329-6560

Commercial Business Ready

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Property owners and Property Managers are entrusted with keeping their businesses operational. When Disaster Strikes, SERVPRO of Hawaii is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Facilities Managers rely on us to be ready for Whatever Happens.

General Adjusters and Consulting firms from around the Hawaiian Islands trust SERVPRO of Hawaii with their most complex claims. Some of our specialties include

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military
• Universities
• Schools
• Restaurants
• Commercial Disaster Recovery Services 
• We are available around the clock to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services by calling SERVPRO of Hawaii at 808-329-6560.

Commercial Property owners and Property Managers are entrusted with keeping their businesses operational. When Disaster Strikes, SERVPRO of Hawaii is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Facilities Managers rely on us to be ready for Whatever Happens.

General Adjusters and Consulting firms from around the Hawaiian Islands trust SERVPRO of Hawaii with their most complex claims. Some of our specialties include

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military
• Universities
• Schools
• Restaurants
• Commercial Disaster Recovery Services 
• We are available around the clock to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services by calling SERVPRO of Hawaii at 808-329-6560.

The Levels of Commercial Damage

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Hawaii handles not only residential damage and restoration, but commercial as well.

There are three levels of commercial damage that are considered:

Level 1

Level 1 is a small commercial loss typically involving 15,000 square feet or less of affected floor space. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a small commercial loss may include, but are not limited to, a stand-alone retail establishment, a small church, a daycare facility, a small shopping center, a small warehouse or manufacturing facility, or a stand-alone administrative building. A Level 1 loss can also be a small portion of a much larger structure.

Level 2

Level 2 is a midsize commercial loss typically involving 15,000 to 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved are usually multi-level or greatly divided spaces. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 2 loss may include, but are not limited to, a small multi-family property, a midsize church or school, a small shopping center, a multi-tenant administration facility, or a midsize warehouse or manufacturing facility. A Level 2 loss can also be just a portion of a much larger structure.

Level 3

Level 3 is a large commercial loss typically involving more than 60,000 square feet of affected floor space. The building or buildings involved will likely be large multi-level structures. If the facility was entirely affected, examples of a Level 3 loss can include, but are not limited to, a large church, hospital, school, or university; a large multi-family property; a mid- to high-rise retail or administration facility; a large industrial, manufacturing, or warehouse facility; or a large strip-style shopping center or shopping mall. This is the level at which it would be appropriate to refer to the project as a “large loss.”

Once our team determines the level of loss, the property is further assessed, and a team of appropriate size is dispatched to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and return your business to operation “Like it never even happened.”®

Call SERVPRO of Hawaii 808-329-6560

Why SERVPRO? Because We Care!

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO, our number one priority is to make our customers happy. It may sound like the impossible task; after all, we are arriving on the scene when circumstances for our customers are devastating. A fire in their home, a busted pipe which has caused water damage in their kitchen, mold in their office building. These are difficult situations emotionally which is all the more reason for our employees to be sensitive to what our customers are dealing with. Many times, depending upon the damage we are mitigating, we could spend days, weeks, or even months in customer’s home or office. We get to know our clients one on one. We get to meet their children. We get to hear about their families. We know their pets’ names. We know where they leave the key in case they are not there. We get to know them by carefully handling all of their cherished possessions, sometimes cleaning them and packing them away until their homes are restored. At the end of the day, we are just people helping people.  That’s what it’s all about. Sometimes that means stopping what we are doing and having a cup of coffee or dinner with our customers if they ask. Sometimes it means taking out the family pet. Our salesperson recently captured a beautiful picture of one of our employees enjoying a meal with our customers in their home after she had spent hours helping them recover from a fire loss.

What a beautiful thing to see! Why SERVPRO?? Because we care about our customers...And they know it! Let us be the one you call when your life gets flipped upside down.

Call SERVPRO of Hawaii 808-329-6560

Why SERVPRO?

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

The Importance of Fast Extraction of Mold!

Home and business owners place a lot of their faith in their buildings when they place the orders to supply their shops with items and goods. While you might have made the substantial initial investment a long time ago, every item that you have for sale within the shop represents part of that financial arrangement that you have with your supplier to make good on your end of the agreement. When water loss incidents occur within the home or property, you need to act immediately to protect this investment from irreparable damage. Our professionals are readily available to help!

While you cannot predict when you might need water or mold removal, the faster that you can secure this service, contain and appropriately clean the area, the less of the items and stock throughout your home or property that can become directly impacted. Our SERVPRO professionals can work quickly to offer effective mitigation solutions including fast extraction when you need it the most.

When we first come into your building, part of our team works to set up the extraction equipment required to begin removal and restoration efforts while another portion of our crew can work to remove at-risk contents from the affected area. Without a widespread situation, much of these moved items can get stored in a different area of your store unless they require focused drying and cleaning attention.

Our SERVPRO technicians on site determine the best equipment for the severity of the water damage, ranging from mobile wet-vac units with extraction wands to gas-powered trash pumps and our extractor truck. With effective removal of excess water, our team can get to work on thoroughly drying the damaged area and protecting your building from potential secondary damages. 

While there are many concerns when your home or property suffers a water loss incident, the investment that you have made and contents of the property is our upmost priority for our SERVPRO of Hawaii teams, as well. We have efficient extraction and drying equipment to get your doors back open quickly. Give us a call anytime disaster strikes at (808) 329-6560.

Commercial Business Ready

2/23/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial Property owners and Property Managers are entrusted with keeping their businesses operational. When Disaster Strikes, SERVPRO of Maui is here to help make it “Like it never even happened.” Facilities Managers rely on us to be ready for Whatever Happens.

General Adjusters and Consulting firms from around the Hawaiian Islands trust SERVPRO of Maui with their most complex claims. Some of our specialties include

• Small Office Buildings
• Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
• Apartment Buildings
• Restaurants
• Hotel/Motels
• Small Retail Stores
• Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
• High-Rise Residential
• Manufacturing & Industrial
• Government/Military
• Universities
• Schools
• Restaurants
• Commercial Disaster Recovery Services 
• We are available around the clock to get your business back up and running. Our expertise includes restoration services for fire and water damage, including electronics restoration and document drying. We are also your business’s best resource for mold remediation. Learn more about our commercial restoration services by calling SERVPRO of Maui at 808-572-4666.

SERVPRO of Hawaii Can Assist in Addressing Concerns of Fire Damage in Your Home

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

After experiencing fire damage to your home, there are many unanticipated concerns. Determining what foods are safe to keep or how to get that strong smoke odor out of your home are only a couple of many concerns however, both require extensive care.

Our SERVPRO team can help go through and determine what foods have been contaminated and are no longer suitable for consumption. Foods that are exposed to air, even by the slightest cracks can become covered by soot and become odorous. After checking each and every food item our team can discern and dispose of all foods that may have gone bad during the fire.

In reassuring the odorous smell of smoke is removed from your home our team has many tools and resources in providing the greatest care in restoring your home. We sweep through your home top to bottom, cleaning every and all surface exposed to smoke or soot.

Our team here at SERVPRO of Hawaii is thorough and meticulous in ensuring your fire damaged home is restored.

 If you have suffered from fire damage in your home, call our team at SERVPRO (808)329-6560. We specialize in restoration and reconstruction services for fire damage, mold, and storms. Call today for an inspection.

Storms Don't Hold Back, Neither Should You

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Wildfires and general erosion patterns are notable influences on the rates of storm damage; the effects of the heat, and rains on the Island of Hawaii and Maui. With an increase of intense UV rays in the past years, there has been a higher number of reported fires. Not only has the heat brought damage to many homes, but there is also always damages brought on by rainstorms. Your property might be vulnerable, and our team is ready to help.

When potential threats of not only rainwater flooding but also great amounts of dirt rushing towards or invading your home choose the best restoration company for your home. SERVPRO, with highly-qualified crews and state of the art equipment, is the first choice of homeowners who have suffered storm damage. 

From shoveling debris, extracting water, removal of hazardous material, cleaning, drying, disinfecting, and restoring your home SERVPRO can do it all. Our team is IICRC certified and each team member has well qualifications and the best training to ensure the fastest recovery time for all storm damage.

If you have been hit by a storm call SERVPRO at (808)329-6560. We specialize in restoration and reconstruction services for fire damage, mold, and storms. Call today for an inspection.

Hawaii/Maui County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 808-329-6560

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui

SERVPRO of Hawaii/Maui specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Commercial Fire Damage

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Antique Store Fire Damage

When a fire strikes your commercial property, it's quite likely that you feel yourself start to panic. This immediate reaction makes sense given all of the economic turmoil and property destruction that a fire can cause. However, knowing which steps to take can help prevent you from becoming anxious, losing money, and undergoing extensive property damages. We advise to implement the following four tips:

1. Contact A Fire Remediation Expert. 
Once the fire department has doused all of the flames, be sure to call a fire remediation expert. This individual will be able to equip you with a thorough assessment indicating the extent of the damages. Don't ever attempt to handle any of the cleanups, drying, or restoration processes on your own. Doing so could put you in peril of injury and illness.

2. Assemble Your Records. 
In addition to contacting a fire remediation expert, make sure that you assemble your business's essential records. You'll want to have this information with you when you start working with your insurance company. To guarantee that you can have all of your files ready in a safe place, make a point to buy a fireproof safe where they can be stored.

3. Call The Insurance Company Immediately. 
Be sure that you call your insurance company once the fire is put out. This step is important because your insurance agent will work with you to file a claim and determine how much coverage you'll attain for the commercial damages.

4. Get Permission To Reenter The Building. 
Always ask the fire department or another local authority whether you can reenter your building. In some cases, fires can weaken the structural integrity of the commercial property and make it subject to collapse. This is why you need to assure that reentry is safe for you and your employees.

5. Stay Calm to Avoid Bad Decisions.

Flood Damage vs Water Damage

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Flood Damage Vs Water Damage

The terms “Flood damage” and “Water damage” are commonly used in the restoration industry. Most people would hear these terms and assume they mean the same thing; however, they actually have some key differences!

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, a flood is defined as: “A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of 2 or more acres of normally dry land or, of 2 or more properties from:

• overflow of inland or tidal waters
• unusual and rapid accumulation or run off of surface waters from any source
• Mudflows
• Collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood as defined above.”

The defining factor that separates flood damage from water damage is pretty simple; it all depends on where the water comes from. Flood damage comes from natural sources. Water damage comes from inside the home (dishwasher leak, washing machine overflow etc.).  

Knowing the difference between flood damage and water damage is not only important for mitigation purposes, but for filing insurance claims as well! Make sure you know what type of loss your insurance covers in case you find yourself dealing with water or flood issues.

When it comes to water damage, flood damage, or any other type of damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Hawaii to restore your home or business. We have professional crews available 24/7, and advanced equipment on hand to make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

Flood Damage Vs Water Damage

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Flood Damage Vs Water Damage

The terms “Flood damage” and “Water damage” are commonly used in the restoration industry. Most people would hear these terms and assume they mean the same thing; however, they actually have some key differences!

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, a flood is defined as: “A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of 2 or more acres of normally dry land or, of 2 or more properties from:

• overflow of inland or tidal waters
• unusual and rapid accumulation or run off of surface waters from any source
• Mudflows
• Collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood as defined above.”

The defining factor that separates flood damage from water damage is pretty simple; it all depends on where the water comes from. Flood damage comes from natural sources. Water damage comes from inside the home (dishwasher leak, washing machine overflow etc.).  

Knowing the difference between flood damage and water damage is not only important for mitigation purposes, but for filing insurance claims as well! Make sure you know what type of loss your insurance covers in case you find yourself dealing with water or flood issues.

When it comes to water damage, flood damage, or any other type of damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Maui to restore your home or business. We have professional crews available 24/7, and advanced equipment on hand to make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

When Storms or Floods hit Hawaii, SERVPRO is ready!

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hawaii specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit the Big Island, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. In addition to our sister franchise on Maui we can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 808-961-6560

Flood Damage vs Water Damage

2/21/2020 (Permalink)

Flood Damage vs Water Damage

The terms “Flood damage” and “Water damage” are commonly used in the restoration industry. Most people would hear these terms and assume they mean the same thing; however, they actually have some key differences!

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, a flood is defined as: “A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of 2 or more acres of normally dry land or, of 2 or more properties from:

• overflow of inland or tidal waters
• unusual and rapid accumulation or run off of surface waters from any source
• Mudflows
• Collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels that result in a flood as defined above.”

The defining factor that separates flood damage from water damage is pretty simple; it all depends on where the water comes from. Flood damage comes from natural sources. Water damage comes from inside the home (dishwasher leak, washing machine overflow etc.).  

Knowing the difference between flood damage and water damage is not only important for mitigation purposes, but for filing insurance claims as well! Make sure you know what type of loss your insurance covers in case you find yourself dealing with water or flood issues.

When it comes to water damage, flood damage, or any other type of damage, you can count on SERVPRO of Maui to restore your home or business. We have professional crews available 24/7, and advanced equipment on hand to make the damage “Like it never even happened.”

Homeowners vs Flood Insurance

2/18/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage to a home is a very time taking, expensive and life changing experience. Ideally, we want everyone to be insured in case of any possible event. Most of our mitigation responses are to homes where water comes from within the house, that type of damage is usually covered by the homeowners insurance. It changes when the water source comes from the outside, for example during heavy rains water rises in a nearby creek, overflows and reaches the house. That is s flood, rather than water leak and it requires a flood insurance (in addition to homeowners) if one would like to have coverage. Flood, while it is a rare occurrence, it tends to happen in the flood zones, where rates are typically higher for flood insurance but it is strongly encouraged if not mandatory. It is important to get educated about both types of insurance in regards to your home location (and other factors), especially that flood zones are changing due to the change in extreme weather patterns. If you have any questions or if you have a water emergency you can call us 24/7.

ABC of shellac paint

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

Shellac paint, which we often use when mitigating fire damages, in general, it is best used to seal the wood. Typical fire mitigation process consists of removal of all fire affected materials, followed with pressure washing of the remaining pieces to remove all smoke debris and one of the final steps in fire mitigation is sealing the wood with shellac paint, which seals odor. Shellac has many other uses as well, it is often used by artists to seal the wood, to prevent color changes and to some extent it does make it also waterproof. Others use it as a primer, especially in between coats of paint and colors. If you have any questions about Fire Mitigation practices we are here to help at SERVPRO of Hawaii.

How to prevent mold tips

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

Mold can be very irritating, those that are allergic or sensitive will have most severe reactions to it. Financially it is a costly problem to eradicate, as well. Mold is also everywhere (to some extent), it is most obviously present in Brie cheese but lets keep it just in there. Mold requires only moisture to grow, with that in mind, most prevention will focus on minimizing the presence of humidity inside. Ideally, we want to keep the humidity below 60%, some states are much drier but here in Hawaii the humidity is always above 50% making perfect conditions for mold to grow. Things to pay attention: most importantly, leaks need to be mitigated and all areas kept dry at all times. Anywhere you can spot a wet area, condensation on the bathroom ceiling or a window, the source of that needs to be tracked and eliminated. All areas of the house need to be ventilated frequently and checked for leaks and moisture needs to be dried. We also need to make sure that outside of the home has minimal water presence, check gutters, all standing water need to be directed away from the house. Those few steps are basic tips to prevent mold, especially here in our local Hawaiian climate where they need to be addressed regularly. If mold will grow regardless of your efforts, we are happy to help here at SERVPRO of Hawaii.

Safety First

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Biohazard Clean-Up

Biohazard according to a definition is a biological agent, that constitutes a threat to humans. Often we get calls to mitigate such biohazardous situation. Corpses and blood are sadly most frequent. Very recently we were called to a very popular coffee shop chain here in Kona to clean-up blood in their public restroom, an older gentlemen had a bloody nose and employees were not permitted to touch it. We were glad, that we could help. Other situations that are technically not biohazardous are mold and category 3 water. Couple of times, when the home was left unattended for extended periods of time, mold has developed so far that entry was dangerous to eyes and lungs. This also required trained and experienced SERVPRO technicians. Most importantly, be safe, do your research and protect yourselves and your property. In case you're not sure, best to call SERVPRO. We are here to help, explain and make it "Like it never even happened."

Mold Celeb

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

In the 90s, mold became the Cause Celeb, especially that strain of “Black” mold, Stachybotrys, that struck fear in the hearts of thousands of Americans.  Even though that hysteria has passed, it is no joking matter to have mold growing in your home.  It is true that mold spores are everywhere, but for mold to grow you have to have two things: 1) food, and 2) water.  There is very little you can do to remove all “food” sources in a house, but you can eliminate the water factor.  When you have a water loss, it is incredibly important to completely dry the affected area so mold will not grow. If you try to take care of it yourself, you run the risk of giving mold a chance to infiltrate your house deeper.  Don't risk that, call SERVPRO of Hawaii at 808-329-6560, and make sure your house is dry. 

Preparation is the key

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Having a garage in your business building makes life easier for you and your employees. It gives you storage space for extra supplies, a place to park company vehicles to protect them from the weather and in general more square footage for operations. Unfortunately, these useful additions, like every other part of your business building, aren’t immune to flooding. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to get your garage water-free again in no time:

• Install a sump pump and other equipment beforehand
• Use a trash pump to remove water
• Call the pros @ SERVPRO for help 

Installing a Sump Pump

There’s no cure like a bit of prevention, especially when it comes to taking care of your business building. Sump pumps act as a preventative measure for spaces that are likely to flood. These pumps are typically installed in special spaces in garage floors called “sump pits.” They’re used to prevent additions like these from flooding in the first place by pumping out invading water as needed to keep floors dry.

Trash Pump

A trash pump is a piece of equipment that can be used to pump out massive amounts of water from a space whenever the need arises. These pumps aren’t just limited to liquid wastes, however. They also handle solid waste and other issues so you’re sure to get the full removal work you need. This equipment isn’t installed in a space beforehand like a sump pump is, being used as a form of treatment rather than prevention.

Professional Assistance

If you’re not comfortable running either a sump or trash pump on your own, you always have the option to call in the professionals to take care of your business’s garage flooding issue. They have both the equipment and know-how to take care of the problem in a hurry, so you’ll get your space back as soon as possible.

Regardless of whether you live in an area with high flood risk or an area with practically no flood threat at all, it’s always a good idea to consider one of these options before inclement weather hits. That way you’re prepared whenever an emergency arises. 

Sewer backflow preventer

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Sewer Backflow Preventer.

Sewer back-up is one of the worse accidents that can happened to the homeowner. One local apartment complex had two such emergencies in the span of a couple of years, until they have installed back-flow pressure release valves that release pressure in the lawn before potentially reaching bathrooms, smart solution that required the association to work together with utilities and the insurance company. Individual homeowners, here in Hawaii, are often working with septic tanks which in most cases also have backflow valves and the problem manifests itself in the yard before making its way back to the house. Regular and frequent plumbing inspections can prevent most of potential emergencies related to sewage but all other related water issues as well. Sewer backflow preventers are often the most efficient and the most affordable solution to prevent any sewage back-up in your bathroom. While most water/sewage emergencies are covered by homeowners insurance policies there is a deductible in most policies and the head aches associated with dealing with such damages are priceless.

Mold testing

1/20/2020 (Permalink)

Mold Test Kit.

Over the weekend we were called to do a mold test in a remote location in Hawi. House was a few miles from the town, up on the hill with beautiful views of local pasture fields. It was also recently remodeled, with new fixtures and modern design, very attractive rental property. Before the renters moved in, the house was unoccupied and most likely with a limited air flow, closed doors and windows. We were called to do a mold test because the renter has a mold allergy. First remedy offered by the property owner was a deep cleaning, that did not help much because the cleaners used bleach, which is not effective in remediating mold. The renter continued to have adverse reactions to mold and we were called. We performed an air test. Before we will draft a protocol for mold remediation few tips on how to avoid it in the future. Hawaii has a lot of vacations rentals and "snow birds" condos, which are not always occupied. That vacancy combined with high humidity creates a perfect environment for mold. To minimize the likelihood of mold, every property should be frequently aired and checked for leaks. If you can't avoid mold or if you're not sure if you have it, SERVPRO is a licensed company to test and remediate mold. We are happy to answer all your questions and walk you through the process. 

Copper water lines.

1/13/2020 (Permalink)

Copper water line fixed after a leak with a coupling.

Recently we were called to mitigate a water leak which was caused by a copper line. Surprisingly, the leak was slowly developing in the wall until the owner noticed a wet ceiling in the garage beneath. The wall was cut, the leak was located and fixed with a coupling. This was just a tip of the iceberg of what needed to follow. Next we are removing the floor, the ceiling in the garage below, clean, sanitize and setup our drying and dehumidifying equipment. 

After a short conversation with an owner, he said that the type of copper pipe used was different than what should, there was type M used (which is up to specs in most cases) and he thought that L should have been used, which is always better to overbuild but it is also more costly. We can't stress enough how crucial it is to use licensed, reputable and trusted plumbers and electricians. Besides the type of the line, we also had an issue with Chinese copper products in California in 2003-2008 which made its way to Hawaii as well. There is plenty of information on that topic online. Currently, we are responding to a lot of leaks and some were caused by Chinese products. One more thing that might develop a small leak are humans, often when we are putting a picture frame on the wall and use incorrect or too long nail and this nail is accidentally touching the copper line hidden in the wall, it develops corrosion besides a potential puncture. What we should learn from it is the following: before closing on a property, home buyer should get the warranty information in writing on the pipe and or fittings from the builder. When building a new installation, always use products made in America since some stores still sell Chinese defective products. Plumbing inspections are another great way trying to spot and prevent potential leaks in existing installations.

Plumbing inspections

1/6/2020 (Permalink)

Washing machine water hoses.

Plumbing inspection, what is that? Most of us overlook that. While the manufacturers are recommending to replace your washing machine water hoses every 4 to 5 years we very rarely do that as well. Plumbing inspection can take care of that and more.. very easily. Their short visit will save you money and a lot of headaches. Quick look at the hoses by a professional will determine if they need replacing, check on the water pressure will check the pressure regulator and check of all other water connectors including fridge and faucets will stop small leaks before developing to floods. Just like we take insurance, preventive maintenance is a form of insurance. But if you ever develop an issue, we are here to help 24/7.

Veteran Hiring Pledge

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Military Pledge

Holidays are around the corner and it's the time to receive and to give back. With that in our hearts, we are committing to hiring veterans. We are always striving to be a vital part of our community and we want our veterans to be a part of our professional family. Leadership training taught by military is essential for our teamwork and very valuable for our professional growth. In return we offer a clear career path, a healthy working environment, a competitive pay with benefits and a room for growth. Anyone interested please go to our website and simply submit your resume, simple resume submission, no long forms or registration procedures. Please pass this information (link) to anyone interested.

https://www.SERVPROmaui.com/careers

Happy Holidays From our Ohana to Yours!

Happy and Safe Holidays

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Typical fridge leak to pay attention to.

Holiday season puts a bigger stress on all of us but also on our home appliances. Oven works overtime just as our stomachs. Fridge will have more work to do as well with constant door opening, more food to keep cold but most importantly more ice making. With time, the water connectors on the back of the fridge get worn out, older fridges equipped with plastic water lines will have higher chances to leak or break. 

From our experience, we often see extensive damages caused by leaking fridges. Most recently we were called to a house in Palisades where we were replacing floor on first and second level, kitchen cabinets and painting both levels. Small leak but a big restoration task. This is why everyone should keep an eye for any water leaks and keep SERVPRO of Hawaii number handy or best, keep it on the fridge, now take a moment and do just that to avoid all sort of headaches and put this number 808-329-6560 in a visible place. Have a Happy and Safe Holiday Season.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today – (808)

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Hawaii has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Hawaii

SERVPRO of Hawaii specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today – (808)

10/3/2017 (Permalink)

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Hawaii has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Hawaii

SERVPRO of Hawaii specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

What does it matter if I dry a water loss or not?

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

In the 90’s Mold became the Cause Celeb, especially that strain of “Black” Mold, Stachybotrys, that struck fear in the hearts of thousands of Americans.  Even though that hysteria has passed, it is no joking matter to have mold growing in your home.  It is true that mold spores are everywhere, but for mold to grow you have to have two things: 1) food; and 2) water.  There is very little you can do to remove all “food” sources in a house, but you can eliminate the water factor.  When you have a water loss, it is incredibly important to completely dry the area affected so mold will not grow. If you try to take care of it yourself, you run the risk of giving mold a chance to infiltrate your house.  Why would you do that when you can call SERVPRO® of Hawaii at 808-329-6560, and make sure your house is dry. 

What does it matter if I dry a water loss or not?

7/10/2017 (Permalink)

In the 90’s Mold became the Cause Celeb, especially that strain of “Black” Mold, Stachybotrys, that struck fear in the hearts of thousands of Americans.  Even though that hysteria has passed, it is no joking matter to have mold growing in your home.  It is true that mold spores are everywhere, but for mold to grow you have to have two things: 1) food; and 2) water.  There is very little you can do to remove all “food” sources in a house, but you can eliminate the water factor.  When you have a water loss, it is incredibly important to completely dry the area affected so mold will not grow. If you try to take care of it yourself, you run the risk of giving mold a chance to infiltrate your house.  Why would you do that when you can call SERVPRO® of Hawaii at 808-329-6560, and make sure your house is dry.