Recent Cleaning Posts

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Standard Description of Services

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Description of Services 

Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned means professionally trained SERVPRO of Baldwin County employees perform requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services to commercial properties. Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned program ranges from standard to enhanced services and are intended to limit the survival and spread of emerging viral pathogens. 

Here is a general description of standard and enhanced services. It is up to the SERVPRO® of Baldwin County representative and the property owner or owner representative to determine which service is best suited for the specific situation. 

Standard Services 

Standard services focus on cleaning and disinfectant application to frequently contacted touch points. These touch points may include: 

• Door knobs, pulls, and locks, as well as 1 square foot around the knob, pull, or door jambs 

• Push doors 

• Stair handrails, elevator car and controls 

• Light switches, switch covers, and accessible outlet covers 

• Countertops, tabletops, vanity tops, and desktops while taking measures to control overspray and limit potential damage of other items (e.g. paper products, electronic devices, personal property). Disinfection of accessible surfaces without moving contents. 

• Chair arms, backs, and height/swivel controls. 

• Faucets, sinks, soap dispenser, towel dispenser, dryer, water fountains, napkin dispenser 

• Cabinet door and drawer exterior, door and drawer pulls/knobs 

• Toilets, urinals, bathroom stalls around locks and handrails, handrails, bathroom fixtures (e.g., toilet paper dispenser and paper towel dispenser), diaper changing stations, fitting room stalls around locks and handrails 

• Telephones, computer equipment, shared office equipment, sales registers, point-of-sale equipment 

• Exterior of shelves, racking, displays, bookcases, file cabinets, lockers, or other fixtures; disinfection of accessible surfaces without moving contents 

Beyond these touch points, there may be additional frequently contacted touchpoints that may need to be cleaned and/or have disinfectant applied. Additional touch points may include operational equipment such as kitchen, fitness, manufacturing, or laundry equipment. SERVPRO of Baldwin County will consult with the property owner/manager to determine if these items are present and mutually agree on how they will be handled. 

The following exclusions would apply unless an agreement is made prior to beginning services. SERVPRO of Baldwin County will not clean items or surfaces that are not frequently contacted touch points. We will not clean inventory or retail merchandise. We will not be providing cleaning services to the following: Food-related items such as condiments, kitchen food boxes, kitchen food bags, kitchen food containers, beverage or anything that will be consumed by the public. 

Interested in our program? Call us today 251-928-9625

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned Enhanced Services

5/27/2020 (Permalink)

Enhanced Services 

Enhanced services build upon standard services by adding cleaning and disinfectant application to less frequently contacted touchpoints. This includes all the common touchpoints that would be treated in standard services with the addition of touch points that may include non-porous surfaces such as: 

• Front, sides, and backs of desks, counters, tables, and vanities (if accessible) 

• Hard, non-porous contents on tables, desks, or shelves 

• Wall hangings 

• Windows/mirrors under 8 feet from floor 

• Window/door trim 

• Bathroom stall walls/doors 

• Upper/lower cabinet exteriors 

• File cabinet exterior 

• Baseboards and the bottom 8 feet of wall surfaces 

• Hard surface floors 

Enhanced services could also include the cleaning and disinfectant application of porous surfaces such as:

• Carpet 

• Rugs 

• Upholstery 

• Cubicle walls 

Cleaning of these porous materials will be limited to HEPA vacuuming or wet cleaning based on level of visible soils, type of fiber, and condition and should be evaluated on an as needed basis. 

The following exclusions would apply unless an agreement is made prior to beginning services. SERVPRO of Baldwin County will not clean ceilings or ceiling-mounted fixtures as part of enhanced cleaning services. We will not be responsible for cleaning inventory or retail merchandise. We will not be providing cleaning and disinfecting services inside of cabinets, filing cabinets, desk drawers, refrigerators, ranges, microwaves, lockers or electronic items. We will not be providing cleaning services to the following: Food-related items such as condiments, kitchen food boxes, kitchen food bags, kitchen food containers, beverage or anything that will be consumed by the public. 

Interested? Call us today 251-928-9625

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned

5/20/2020 (Permalink)

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield

Ushering in a new standard of clean

As America gets back to business, we all have a new sense of what it means to be clean. In fact, 89% of consumers are uneasy about going back to brick-and-mortar locations*. At SERVPRO of Baldwin County, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in communities across the country as we find our way to a new normal. And we’re doing just that with Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned, our new defensive pathogen cleaning program, goes way beyond standard janitorial cleaning practices. This is proactive viral pathogen cleaning. With over 50 years of experience in biochemical spill remediation and decontamination, you can trust SERVPRO of Baldwin County Professionals to bring a higher standard of clean to the places we gather.

So how does it work? It’s grounded in our unique 3 C’s:

• Consult: Not all businesses are the same, so we’ll tailor a bespoke cleaning program based on the unique needs of each facility.

• Clean: Based on the agreed plan, an expert deep clean is initiated using our proprietary EPA-Approved Hospital-Grade cleaning solutions and always adhering to the leading level of cleaning and decontamination standards set by the CDC.

• Certify: You’ll know a business is Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned by the shield posted on their front window. Along with digital emblems and other collateral, this beacon represents their commitment to the comfort and security of their employees, customers and community.

So when you see the Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned shield, you can walk in with confidence. Because you’ll know the #1 choice in clean up and restoration was there.

Are you interested in our Commercial Services, or are you a consumer who wants to learn more?

Call us today! 251-928-9625

4 Tips for Keeping Bugs Out of Your Home This Summer

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

Every year after winter has come and gone, bugs come out of hibernation and are looking for places to feed and mate. They look for moist, dark places to call home, and your home is often the prime real estate. Whether it’s ants, cockroaches, or spiders, there’s plenty that we can do to help keep them out of our homes! 

Cleanliness is The Best Deterrent

Insects like to find dark, cluttered places to call home and multiply. Do your part and make sure that you are on top of your cleaning to make sure that the insects can’t take up residence in your home.

Always Check the Screen Doors

Another item that often goes overlooked is the screen door/screens for windows. It’s important to check for cracks or openings before spring comes around to ensure that no bugs can make a break for your home. If you happen to find any holes in the screen doors, do your part and plan to repair them as soon as possible! The last thing you want is an unintentional bug infestation because one tiny hole was overlooked.

Food Management 

One big offense that people oftentimes find themselves doing is leaving food out in the open. If you or your family have a bad habit of leaving food out on the counter overnight, or leaving food open in the pantry, don’t! This is a prime resource for bugs to get inside of your home. Make sure to discard or refrigerate any food that is being left out.

Removing Unnecessary Water

Finally, one of the least known components of a bug problem is water. If there is any kind of leak anywhere, or somewhere that has a dark and damp surface, bugs are attracted to it. Do your best to ensure that any leaks are fixed immediately and that standing water is not left out in the open for too long. Cleaning these areas immediately will persuade the insects to seek refuge elsewhere. This is prime breeding grounds for these bugs, don’t let them have a chance to get comfortable and settle!

If you find a leak or water damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Baldwin County to make it "Like it never even happened."

Allergies Are No Fun!

5/22/2019 (Permalink)

Weather is getting warmer and spring is finally here! Spring cleaning is essential as weather warms because there are higher amounts of pollen in the air, contributing to your allergies.

Check out our tips to reduce the allergens that find their way into your home!

  • Vacuum frequently, and make sure to use a HEPA filter to trap and lock away allergens.
  • Throw out unnecessary clutter, so dust cannot hide.
  • Try wearing a mask while you clean, so you don’t breathe in the germs you want to get rid of!
  • Check water pipes for leaks and the potential for mold.
  • Don’t wash with fragrance detergents, as they may trigger your allergies.
  • Use your AC instead of opening your windows, to keep allergens out.

For Your Home's Deep Cleaning, Call SERVPRO of Baldwin County!

SERVPRO of Baldwin County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after damaging event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility for regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. SERVPRO wants our team to be part of your team! Call us at 251-928-9625 

Clean Homes Sell Faster

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Looking to sell your home? SERVPRO of Baldwin County can help revive your home to top show conditions. It is a fact that a clean fresh smelling home sells faster. Unfortunately not all homes are maintained the same way, and nearly all realtors are faced with a difficult listing to sell. Realtors encourage clients to keep their homes in top conditions because it increases market value, reduces list to sale conversion time, and enhances reputation for quality listings and quick sales. Whether the problem is stained carpet or offensive smell in a room, SERVPRO of Baldwin County can help get homes in top condition with a variety of services:

  • Carpet, upholstery, Drapery and Blind Cleaning
  • Ceiling, Wall and Hard Floor Cleaning
  • Deodorization
  • Duct & HVAC Cleaning
  • Mold Mitigation and Remediation

Get it Clean, Get it Sold

2/14/2019 (Permalink)

Dirty ducts can cause a variety of issues that some home owners may not even realize. When selling your home, it is important to take care of these issues in order to sell your listing efficiently. It is a fact that a clean problem free home sells faster. Dirty ducts can circulate odors and contaminants like mold and irritating dust throughout a home. SERVPRO of Baldwin County uses a portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and make a clean sweep, removing years of dust and grime. Duct and HVAC System Cleaning can reduce allergens and pet dander, eliminate offensive odors, and improve all over operating conditions and efficiency. Clean ducts means clean air! If you are looking to improve your homes market value and reduce list to sale conversion time, SERVPRO of Baldwin County can help get your home ready. Call us today!

Air Quality

1/13/2017 (Permalink)

This photo shows a return before cleaning ductwork.

Many of us are exposed to toxins everyday and we do not realize it. Toxins can cause short term allergies, illnesses, and they even cause us to age. Over time, exposure to toxins can have even more disastrous consequences. If you answer yes to any of the following, consider making a change to improve your home's air quality and lessen your exposure to toxins.

Healthy Home Checklist

  • Do you smoke in your home?
  • Do your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room have adequate ventilation and exhaust fans?
  • Do you change your air filters once a month?
  • When cleaning or doing laundry, do you use bleach, ammonia or aerosol spray cans?
  • Is your gas fireplace and/or gas stove checked yearly for emissions?
  • Was your home built before 1978? If so, has it been checked for lead-based paint?
  • Do your bathrooms have carpet?

Causes of Indoor Air Pollution

  • Asbestos building products when dislodged (no longer intact)
  • Biological contaminants such as mold, dust, mites, viruses, and pet dander
  • Carbon Monoxide
  • Formaldehyde found in pressure treated wood
  • Lead (pre-1978 house paint)
  • Nitrogen dioxide
  • Particulates found in dust, pollen, cleaning sprays and poorly ventilated areas
  • Tobacco smoke
  • Volatile organic compounds including household cleaning products, pesticides, and aerosol propellants

7 Fall Home Maintenance Musts

11/15/2016 (Permalink)

Fall Leaves on the Beach

1.  Check for Peeling Paint:

Inspect exterior walls to see if any paint is peeling or blistering on the house or outbuildings. According to Carl Minchew, Director, Benjamin Moore Paints, "Peeling paint is a sign that the existing paint film is failing and can no longer protect the siding of the building. Left uncorrected, the siding itself will deteriorate, leading to expensive repairs in the future."

2. Clean the Gutters

 After leaves have fallen, clean out the gutters and downspouts, flush them with water, inspect joints, and tighten brackets if necessary
 
3. Seal Windows Up
 
If you feel any drafts around windows or doors, address them now to help keep your energy costs down. And, check your attic insulation, too.
 
4. Check Your Smoke and Carbon-Monoxide Detectors
 
Even ones that are powered through your home’s electrical system typically have a backup battery that might need replacing.
 
5. Check Your Roof
 
Remove moss from sloped areas and clear any debris from gutters and downspouts. Additionally, look for signs of damage/wear and make repairs as soon as possible. Use binoculars if you need to. Fall is no time for a leaky roof!
 
6. Fall Cleaning
 
Clean and tune your furnace, boiler and/or water heater, along with your oven and range.
 
7. Review Your Fire Escape Plan
 
Every bedroom, including basement bedrooms, should have two exit paths. Make sure windows aren't blocked by furniture or other items. Ideally, each upper-floor bedroom should have a rope ladder near the window for emergency exits. Review what to do in case of fire, and arrange a safe meeting place for everyone away from the house.