DURACLEAN SPONSORS “ETHICS FOR THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY” CE CLASS | 3/14/13

 Duraclean Restoration sponsored a fabulous CE Class last week.  Vince Phillips of Phillips Associates taught all of the attendees about “Ethics for the Insurance Industry.”  A good time was had by all! 

A great big “THANK YOU!!” to: 

- All of the attendees

-Vince Phillips for his engaging instruction

- TEXPRO  - Textile Restoration Specialists for their co-sponsorship

The Duraclean Team had a blast and we are already planning and looking forward to the next one! 

 

Ready and waiting for the morning attendees to arrive.

Harriet’s smiling face waiting to register the morning attendees

Yummy breakfast treats.

Morning attendees listening intently.

Lunch is served!

Having fun with the Duraclean Prize Wheel and Plinko Board over the break!

 

Mingling after the afternoon session

 

Enjoying the hors d’oeuvres in the evening.

 

 

DURACLEAN  RESTORATION SPECIALIST

&

TRI-STATE  BASEMENT  SERVICES

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

 Flood Pump Outs

 Flood Clean Up

Water Removal

Water Extraction

Structural Drying

Contents Drying and Restoration

Sump Pump Installs

Battery Back-Up Pump Installs

Reconstruction

 

Call for 24/7 Emergency Service:  

215-679-3550

Toll Free: 866-679-3550

Contact our office with any questions:

 

Duraclean Restoration Specialist

Phone: 215-679-3550

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.duracleanrestorationspecialist.com

 

Tri-State Basement Services

Phone: 215-679-3040

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.tristateservicesinc.com

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HURRICANE SANDY | PREPARE AND REACT

HURRICANE SANDY IS COMING!!

Read on for advice about preparing for and responding to this type of severe weather event…

BEFORE THE STORM 

  • Look for any potential problem areas, especially along your roof, windows, doors and garage doors. 
  • Remove tree branches that could harm utility wires or home.  
  • Clear debris from gutters and spouts.  
  • Secure or bring outdoor furniture or other items inside.  – The Halloween decorations will have to come inside!     
  • Go shopping:  nonperishable items such as canned food, granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, ready-to-eat cereal and snacks, crackers, and peanut butter are best.  
  • Set the refrigerator to its coldest setting. If the power goes out, the food won’t spoil as quickly.  
  • Charge your cell phones fully.  
  • Move valuables to the upper floors of your house, away from areas that could potentially flood.  
  • Check your sump pumps to make sure they are operational.  If you don’t have one, and if time allows, install a battery operated back-up in case of a power outage.  
  • Keep a list of emergency numbers by the telephone.  This includes your insurance agent’s phone number – you may have to turn in a homeowner’s claim. 
  • Take inventory of your possessions.  Your insurance adjuster will need this if there is damage and you contents need to be repaired or replaced.

 DURING THE STORM 

  • Stay inside and off the roads  
  • If you absolutely must be on the roads, don’t attempt to drive through flooded areas. 
  • If the authorities tell you to evacuate your home – do it!  Don’t be stubborn.  Be sure to take all of your important documents with you.

 IF THE POWER GOES OUT 

  • Report outages to your power company immediately. Don’t assume your neighbors have already called. 
  • Be sure that ovens, ranges or heaters that may have been on before the power went out have been turned off. 
  • Don’t use candles. They can be fire hazard.  Use flashlights instead.  
  • Unplug appliances and electronics that can be damaged when the power is restored.  
  • Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed. Each time you open the door, a significant amount of cold air is lost. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold safely for about four hours. A packed freezer will keep food safe for 48 hours; you have 24 hours if the freezer is half full. 
  • Don’t risk eating spoiled food.  When in doubt, throw it out! 
  • Keep generators and fuel outdoors.   
  • Keep your doors closed to prevent warm air from escaping. 

  

 

 

 

 

IF IT FLOODS 

  • If you’re outdoors, move to high ground.  
  • If your basement floods, turn off your pilot light for your basement gas appliances. 
  • Turn off the electrical panel box if you can do so safely. Don’t touch electrical switches if they (or you) are wet.  
  • Stay away until the floodwaters have receded. Don’t enter your home or attempt repairs until you’re certain it’s safe.  
  • Contact a certified restoration contractor and your insurance agent as soon as possible.  A fast response to property damage lessens the amount and severity of potential secondary damage.

   

 

 

 

 

 

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!!

DURACLEAN  RESTORATION SPECIALIST

&

TRI-STATE  BASEMENT  SERVICES

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

 Flood Pump Outs

 Flood Clean Up

Water Removal

Water Extraction

Structural Drying

Contents Drying and Restoration

Sump Pump Installs

Battery Back-Up Pump Installs

Reconstruction

 

Call for 24/7 Emergency Service:  

215-679-3550

Toll Free: 866-679-3550

Contact our office with any questions:

 

Duraclean Restoration Specialist

Phone: 215-679-3550

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.duracleanrestorationspecialist.com

 

Tri-State Basement Services

Phone: 215-679-3040

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.tristateservicesinc.com

 

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FROZEN PIPES | PREVENTION AND REACTION

 Brrrrr… it’s getting cold outside!!    Don’t forget that your pipes feel the cold too!  

Frozen pip

Frozen and burst pipes can cause costly water damage. Follow the tips below to find out how to prevent your pipes from freezing and how to react in the event that they do.  

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

 There are three primary causes of frozen pipes:

1) Quick drops in temperature

2) Poor insulation

3) Thermostats set too low.

Take these steps to prevent your pipes from freezing:

  • Insulate pipes in crawl spaces and attics.  Exposed pipes are the most susceptible to freezing. *Tip: the more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.
  • You can also use heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables to wrap pipes. Be sure to use products only for the use intended (exterior or interior). Follow all manufacturers’ installation and operation instructions very carefully.  These products can be dangerous if not installed properly.
  • Seal any and all leaks that may be allowing cold air inside near your pipes. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes.  Use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.  In very severe cold, even a very tiny opening can let in enough cold air to cause pipes to freeze.
  • Before freezing temperatures set in, disconnect all garden hoses and use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from the pipes that lead to outside faucets. This reduces the risk of the short span of pipe just inside the house freezing.

If Your Pipes Do Freeze

What should you do if your pipes do freeze? 

The first step is …DON’T PANIC!  Frozen pipes do not always burst.

Do the following:

  • If no water comes out of your faucets when you turn them on, leave the faucets turned on and call a plumber.  (if you need a recommendation, please feel free to contact us, we work with a number of reliable, professional and reasonably priced plumbers)
  • Do not use electrically operated items and/or appliances in areas of standing water.  This is very dangerous, and you could be electrocuted.
  • No matter what, do not try to thaw frozen pipes with a torch or other open flame because it creates a huge fire hazard. A broken pipe and some water damage is definitely preferable to burning your house down!
  • Try thawing the pipe out using the warm air from a hair dryer. Start by warming it as close to the faucet as possible, and work your way toward the coldest section of the pipe.

If your pipes have already burst:broken pipe frozen pipe burst pipe

    • turn off the water at the main shutoff valve inside your home or office
    • leave the water faucets turned on
    • make sure that everyone who will be in the home or building knows where the water shutoff valve is and how to open and close it.
    • Call a certified restoration company to begin the mitigation services ASAP. 
      • Fast response is crucial. 
      • The mitigation process must being right away to help prevent secondary damage 

 

 

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!!

DURACLEAN  RESTORATION SPECIALIST

&

TRI-STATE  BASEMENT  SERVICES

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

 Flood Pump Outs

 Flood Clean Up

Water Removal

Water Extraction

Structural Drying

Contents Drying and Restoration

Sump Pump Installs

Battery Back-Up Pump Installs

Reconstruction

 

Call for 24/7 Emergency Service:  

215-679-3550

Toll Free: 866-679-3550

Contact our office with any questions:

 

Duraclean Restoration Specialist

Phone: 215-679-3550

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.duracleanrestorationspecialist.com

 

Tri-State Basement Services

Phone: 215-679-3040

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.tristateservicesinc.com

 

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FLOODING IN SOUTHEASTERN PA

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT!!

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

HAS ISSUED A FLOOD WATCH FOR EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA, INCLUDING:

BERKS, BUCKS, CHESTER, DELAWARE, LEHIGH, MONROE, MONTGOMERY, NORTHAMPTON, AND PHILADELPHIA COUNTIES

EXPERTS ARE PREDICTING TOTAL RAIN FALL OF UP TO 3″ IN SOME AREAS!!

 

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!!

DURACLEAN  RESTORATION SPECIALIST

&

TRI-STATE  BASEMENT  SERVICES

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

 Flood Pump Outs

 Flood Clean Up

Water Removal

Water Extraction

Structural Drying

Contents Drying and Restoration

Sump Pump Installs

Battery Back-Up Pump Installs

Reconstruction

 

Call for 24/7 Emergency Service:  

215-679-3550

Toll Free: 866-679-3550

Contact our office with any questions:

 

Duraclean Restoration Specialist

Phone: 215-679-3550

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.duracleanrestorationspecialist.com

 

Tri-State Basement Services

Phone: 215-679-3040

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.tristateservicesinc.com

 

 

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DURACLEAN IS HIRING!

Duraclean Restoration, a leader in property loss restoration, is seeking a rock star marketing representative! 

Our company mission is to help others through a strong focus on client satisfaction. 

We are growing and expanding and are looking for an enthusiastic, loyal, and results driven individual to grow with us.  The winning candidate will share our desire to help others and provide exceptional customer service.

Compensation is a salary plus bonus structure.  Bonus structure is based on percentage of monthly revenue generated.  No limit on the revenue basis -  so the sky is the limit! 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1)      maintain and further develop existing relationships with current referral sources

2)      prospect and proactively build relationships with new, potential referral sources

3)      maintain and create these relationships primarily through route marketing and face to face relationship building (hitting the pavement!)

4)      organize and attend promotional events with local businesses and the community

5)      attend weekly networking meetings within the marketing territory

6)      maintain detailed records of all interactions and input all data into marketing software program

NECESSARY CHARACTERISTICS:

1)      Positive, enthusiastic attitude.  We work hard but we have a lot of fun doing it.  The ideal candidate will share our positive outlook and carry it throughout all that they do.  Curmudgeons and negative attitudes will not fit in at Duraclean! 

2)      Problem solving skills.  You must be a results driven individual that will do whatever it takes to get the job done.

3)      Dedication.  You must want this to be your career.   The earning potential of this position is phenomenal but it requires a sincere commitment to nurturing existing relationships and cultivating new ones.  If you are looking for a short term position, this is not the job for you! 

REQUIREMENTS:

All applicants must:

1)      Have a valid and clean driver’s license. (no major violations in the last 3 years)

2)      Be drug free.  Pre-employment and random drug testing will be administered.

3)      Have no criminal record. Full background checks are completed. (misdemeanors, depending on the nature of the conviction, may be permissible)

4)      Have reliable transportation to the office.  A company vehicle is provided for all required travel, but the rep. must report to our East Greenville office each morning and at the end of each day.  The rep. does not take the company vehicle home.

5)      Be computer literate. Proficiency in basic computer programs (MS Outlook, MS Word, MS Powerpoint) is required.  The rep. will also be required to utilize and input data into our marketing software program and manage email marketing campaigns through a third party email marketing service.  If you struggle with technology, this may not be the position for you.  We try to improve our efficiency through the use of technology and will continue to add additional technology to our operations moving forward.

APPLICATION AND INTERVIEW PROCESS

To be considered for this position, please do the following:

1)      Submit a cover letter detailing why you want to be a Duraclean marketing representative, and why you feel you would be a good fit for the position.

2)      Submit a resume with all relevant work experience and references.

Please submit all required information to:  info@tristateservicesinc.com

We look forward to hearing from you!

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RESTORATION NEWS | Water Damage and Mold | Part 4

 
 
The Restoration News series is a valuable source of information for a variety of restoration topics.  This series focuses on mold basics, the dangers of mold exposure, and the proper mold remediation procedures.

  

Factors Affecting Mold Growth

There are seven major factors that affect mold growth. 

These include:

  • Moisture/humidity
  • Food source
  • Temperature
  • pH
  • Time
  • Light
  • Air Movement

 Moisture can come in the form of liquid water or water vapor. 

Either one can contribute to mold growth. In fact, moisture is the #1 factor in causing mold growth.  Mold will simply not grow without moisture. 

Moisture can be measured in terms of relative humidity and water activity.   Relative humidity as first presented in the newsletter:  “Dehumidifiers’ Use in Water Damage is All ‘Relative’ – Part I” (Vol. 1, No. 3) is the percentage of moisture the air can hold at a certain temperature.   Water activity is like the relative humidity measurement at the surface of an object. 

In either case once you reach a certain threshold then mold can grow.  At normal room temperatures (around 70-75o F.) mold will start to grow once relative humidity reaches 60% or more. 

Food source is the next important factor.  Unlike plants which use photosynthesis so  they can produce their own carbohydrates from carbon dioxide and water, mold (fungi) is parasitic in nature.  It needs to feed off of something else in order to survive.   Mold secretes enzymes similar to those in your stomach to digest its food.  In this case, however, the enzymes are sent out into the food source to break down, digest and absorb the food source for its nutrients.

Mold Growth

Growth on Various Surfaces

Mold grows on many surfaces.   The surface itself may be the food source such as structural wood or dry wall or the food may be on the surface such as when you see mold in a shower stall.  The soap and bacteria that is present, not the actual shower liner or tile, are supporting the mold growth.

Following is a list of the more common surfaces that can exhibit mold growth:

  • Wood
  • Plaster and gypsum (dry wall)
  • Cellulose fibers
  • Fiberglass
  • Fabrics
  • Flooring
  • HVAC Systems (AC)
  • Wool, skin and hair
  • Humidifiers
  • Cement and concrete
  • Plastic
  • Paper
  • Paint
  • Vinyl wall coverings
  • Rubber
  • Metal
  • Plants and potting soil
  • Starch in wallpaper paste

 Mold Growth

If you suspect that you have mold in your home or business, make sure to contact a certified mold remediation contractor.  Only certified professionals should perform mold removal.

Check back regualry for the next issue in the  Restoration News newsletter series to learn more about mold and the proper mold remediation procedures.

 
If you have questions that you cannot find answers to on the help forum…Give us a call, or send us an email.

We would be happy to talk with you and share our knowledge and experience with you. 

Contact Us:

TRI-STATE SERVICES, INC. – Duraclean Restoration Specialist and  Tri-State Basement Services

www.tristateservicesinc.com

Phone: 215-679-3550

Fax: 215-679-8550

Email: info@tristateservicesinc.com

 

Restoration News – Water Damage and Mold Part 4

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Duraclean Restoration is Hiring!!

Duraclean Restoration, a leader in property loss restoration, is seeking a rock star marketing representative! 

Our company mission is to help others through a strong focus on client satisfaction. 

We are growing and expanding and are looking for an enthusiastic, loyal, and results driven individual to grow with us.  The winning candidate will share our desire to help others and provide exceptional customer service.

Compensation is a salary plus bonus structure.  Bonus structure is based on percentage of monthly revenue generated.  No limit on the revenue basis -  so the sky is the limit! 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1)      maintain and further develop existing relationships with current referral sources

2)      prospect and proactively build relationships with new, potential referral sources

3)      maintain and create these relationships primarily through route marketing and face to face relationship building (hitting the pavement!)

4)      organize and attend promotional events with local businesses and the community

5)      attend weekly networking meetings within the marketing territory

6)      maintain detailed records of all interactions and input all data into marketing software program

NECESSARY CHARACTERISTICS:

1)      Positive, enthusiastic attitude.  We work hard but we have a lot of fun doing it.  The ideal candidate will share our positive outlook and carry it throughout all that they do.  Curmudgeons and negative attitudes will not fit in at Duraclean! 

2)      Problem solving skills.  You must be a results driven individual that will do whatever it takes to get the job done.

3)      Dedication.  You must want this to be your career.   The earning potential of this position is phenomenal but it requires a sincere commitment to nurturing existing relationships and cultivating new ones.  If you are looking for a short term position, this is not the job for you! 

REQUIREMENTS:

All applicants must:

1)      Have a valid and clean driver’s license. (no major violations in the last 3 years)

2)      Be drug free.  Pre-employment and random drug testing will be administered.

3)      Have no criminal record. Full background checks are completed. (misdemeanors, depending on the nature of the conviction, may be permissible)

4)      Have reliable transportation to the office.  A company vehicle is provided for all required travel, but the rep. must report to our East Greenville office each morning and at the end of each day.  The rep. does not take the company vehicle home.

5)      Be computer literate. Proficiency in basic computer programs (MS Outlook, MS Word, MS Powerpoint) is required.  The rep. will also be required to utilize and input data into our marketing software program and manage email marketing campaigns through a third party email marketing service.  If you struggle with technology, this may not be the position for you.  We try to improve our efficiency through the use of technology and will continue to add additional technology to our operations moving forward.

APPLICATION AND INTERVIEW PROCESS

We will be holding interviews for this position on 4/30/12, 5/1/12, 5/2/12, and 5/3/12 between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

To be considered for this position, please do the following:

1)      Submit a cover letter detailing why you want to be a Duraclean marketing representative, and why you feel you would be a good fit for the position.

2)      Submit a resume with all relevant work experience and references.

3)      Indicate which day and time you would like to interview (choose from the four days listed above).  We will email you to confirm if your requested interview time is available, and to schedule a different time if it is not. 

 Please submit all required information to:  info@tristateservicesinc.com

We look forward to hearing from you!

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HURRICANE IRENE

HURRICANE IRENE: MAJOR NORTHEAST THREAT

THE NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER IS PREDICTING IRENE WILL BECOME A LARGER THAN AVERAGE HURRICANE.

 

 

 
 
 
 
 

Overview of Hurricane Irene

THREATS INCLUDE:
STRONG WINDS
POWER OUTAGES
DOWNED TREES
EXTREME AMOUNTS OF HEAVY RAIN
WIDESPREAD FLOODING

 

 

 

 

 

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!!

 
DURACLEAN  RESTORATION & TRI-STATE  BASEMENT  SERVICES
 
24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE
 
Flood Pump Outs
Water Extraction
Structural Drying
Contents Drying and Restoration
Sump Pump Installs
Battery-Back Up Pump Installs
Full Reconstruction
We are available 24/7 to serve you and your clients…during this storm…and always
Call for Emergency Service:
215-679-3550
Toll Free: 866-679-3550
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FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT

FLOOD WATCH!!

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

HAS ISSUED A FLOOD WATCH FOR EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA, INCLUDING:

BERKS, BUCKS, LEHIGH, MONTGOMERY, NORTHAMPTON, AND PHILADELPHIA COUNTIES

EXPERTS ARE PREDICTING TOTAL RAIN FALL OF UP TO 7” IN SOME AREAS!!

CAREFUL OF FLASH FLOODING

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!!

DURACLEAN  RESTORATION SPECIALIST

&

TRI-STATE  BASEMENT  SERVICES

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

Flood Pump Outs

Flood Clean Up

Water Removal

Water Extraction

Structural Drying

Contents Drying and Restoration

Sump Pump Installs

Battery Back-Up Pump Installs

Reconstruction

Call for Emergency Service:

215-679-3550

Toll Free: 866-679-3550

Contact our office with any questions:

Tri-State Basement Services

Phone: 215-679-3040

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.tristateservicesinc.com

Duraclean Restoration Specialist

Phone: 215-679-3550

Fax: 215-679-8550

www.duracleanrestorationspecialist.com

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RESTORATION NEWS | Fire and Smoke Damage | Part 1

 Restoration News - Fire and Smoke Damage  Part 1
The Restoration News series is a valuable source of information for a variety of restoration topics.  This series focuses on fire and smoke damage - the basics, odor and contamination issues, and proper restoration procedures.

 

“Smoke” Defined

Smoke/soot is the product of incomplete combustion.  It is made visible through the presence of small particles of carbon.

The fire that causes smoke and soot is non-discriminatory in that it will burn anything which can be burned: including your home, your clothing, and all of your personal belongings.  Besides the residue that is created through a fire, when there is a structure that has a variety of different flammable materials such as particle board, wood, plastic laminate, vinyl, etc., the combination of these substances can produce very complex odors.

 fire damage

 

  

Three Categories of Smoke Residue and Odors

Smoke odors can normally be classified into three categories.  These categories also need customized deodorization to restore them:

Protein Odors – These are produced from burned meat, flesh and poultry.

fire - kitchen

The residue is identifiable by a brownish or yellowish color and has a greasy texture. Odor removal and deodorization usually entails a complete cleaning of the affected surfaces.

Natural Substance Odors – Natural burned substances include paper, wood, jute, cork, feathers, and wool, anything that has a plant or animal hair source.  Identification is made through a gray/black residue that has a dry, powdery consistency.

Synthetic Substance Odors – Synthetic (man-made) burned substances encompass burned plastics and textiles.  Residues from these substances are black in color and smudge easily since they come from petroleum-based sources.  Burned synthetic residue can create smoke webs visible where walls and corners meet the ceiling and in streamers handing from curtain rods.  These smoke webs are called soot tags.

smoke webs

NOTE:  Soot tags are often misidentified as “spider webs” which became visible because of the smoke/soot residue.

 

  

Five Factors Which Influence Smoke

There are five factors which influence smoke and can affect the related surfaces:

1. Heat – Warmed or heated air rises and migrates to cold areas such as outside walls and closets.  Heat causes pores in surfaces to expand which then readily accepts the smoke residue and odor.

2. Pressure – The energy created by the fire produces heat which enables the smoke to penetrate into the most minute cracks and crevices.

3. Impingement – Burned objects can hit another surface with sufficient velocity so that it will impinge (or splatter) and remain on the surface.  Think of candle wax.

4. Magnetism – Smoke is attracted to metal surfaces such as plumbing pipes, nail heads and metal coat hangers.

5. Ionization – Opposites attract so smoke webs may form on structural surfaces.  Plastic bags on clothing from dry cleaners retain electrical charges which attract smoke.  More smoke residue can be found on clothing inside plastic bags in a closet as opposed to unprotected clothing!!!

 
 
 
 
 Check back regularly for the next issue in the Restoration News newsletter series to learn more about fire damage, smoke damage, fire damage clean-up, and smoke damage restoration.
 
If you have questions that you cannot find answers to on the help forum…Give us a call, or send us an email.We would be happy to talk with you and share our knowledge and experience with you. 

Contact Us:

TRI-STATE SERVICES, INC. – Duraclean Restoration Specialist and  Tri-State Basement Services

www.tristateservicesinc.com

Phone: 215-679-3550

Fax: 215-679-8550

Email: info@tristateservicesinc.com

 

 

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