Recent Why SERVPRO Posts

Soot, Smoke, and Fire Damage Restoration Services

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

Correct Removal of Fire and Soot Related Stains Is a SERVPRO Area of Expertise

Fire is an essential part of the lives of residents. It is necessary for cooking, heating, and even burning certain substances. However, when it goes out of control, the results can be very destructive to your property. Soot and smoke particles from the fire can land and stick to different surfaces in the structure. Restoration involves getting rid of these residues. The process requires a professional who understands the behavior of smoke during a fire and knows where to locate the heaviest deposits when inspecting the damage.

If your home sustains soot and smoke damage, you can rely on SERVPRO to restore your property. Our technicians are highly trained, experienced and can respond quickly to your fire damage emergency. As usual, we are dedicated to bringing back your contents to preloss conditions, "Like it never even happened."

Smoke and Soot Damage

Soot residues come in different forms - some are easier to clean while others tend to be stubborn. SERVPRO fire damage technicians are trained to deal with various types of soot, namely protein smoke residues, wet smoke residues, fuel oil smoke residues, and dry smoke residues. Factors that determine whether the smoke residue is wet or dry include:

  • The type of substance or material burning
  • The level of oxygen present
  • The rate of combustion

These types of combustion byproducts require different cleaning methods. We use mild cleaning procedures for dry smoke because it does not cause embedded stains and has relatively fewer pungent odors. Natural materials often produce dry smoke when they sustain fire damage. Getting rid of wet smoke residues is more difficult because it is packed with aerosols such as solvents, varnishes, and other components. You can expect wet smoke if any synthetic materials are burning in the structure.

Ignoring smoke damage can lead to permanent consequences. Furniture, carpeting, and personal items with severe soot and fire damage could become irreparable. The soot can irreversibly discolor porous materials within minutes. After a few hours, it can rust or corrode metallic furniture and even damage your flooring. In the end, this can cause greater cleanup and replacement costs.

SERVPRO and the Equipment we use!

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula has the technology to get the job done!  


The past few decades have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula professionals to restore a property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Scientific drying principles rely upon specialized equipment to detect, measure and monitor a property’s moisture levels. Recent advances, like infrared cameras, can help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

  • An infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
  • Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

Powerful extraction equipment speeds the drying process by removing the bulk of the water from your home or business.

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

Drying Equipment

Industrial strength air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to remove the remaining moisture from the ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. 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.

Odor Removal and Deodorization

Water and fire damage often causes powerful odors. The machines we use remove airborne contaminants and control the air quality during the restoration and cleanup process.

  • Air scrubbers
  • Thermal foggers and deodorization agents

Sanitizing Agents, Germicides, and Antimicrobial Treatments

The use of OSHA-approved cleaning agents may be needed to clean and remove odors and/or contaminants on your property.

  • Deodorization products control odors from excessive moisture.
  • Disinfection products stop the growth of bacteria, fungi, mildew, and other harmful microorganisms.

For more information on the services we provide at SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula, call us at 906-204-2450.

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup!

10/28/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement in Marquette, MI Have Questions about Basement Flooding? Call Today-SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Upper Peninsula basement could flood, including:

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today-SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home's structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home's integrity. It's worth making a call to SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. WE have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals. 

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are available 24/7
  • We're a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We bill the Insurance directly-One less thing for you to worry about
  • Our technicians are highly-trained in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration standards
  • Advanced inspection and extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call us Today-We're Ready to Help

SERVPRO of The Upper Peninsula (906) 204-2450