Recent Posts

Key Principles of Biohazard Safety Precautions

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose health consequences, especially in commercial buildings and public places where employees and customers reside. SERVPRO of Lynnwood is trained and certified in effectively removing hazardous biological substances for proper disposal. Let’s review some of the safety measures to be taken when removing biological substances, here are 8 key principles when dealing with blood, bodily fluid and other infectious materials;

  1. Safety for all: When it has been determined that an area is or possibly could be contaminated with blood, body fluids or OPIM; all workers shall be protected from all exposure.
  2. Documentation: Unusual conditions that require differing practices than standard work must have all steps of their process documented.
  3. Evaluation and Assessment: When a preliminary determination indicates that biological contamination exists, an evaluation should be performed prior to starting remediation. This can be accomplished without the need for an independent IEP, as the scope of work can be determined without sampling. Occasionally, other hazards or situations exist which would require an IEP or other professional to perform an assessment.
  4. Documentation during the job: All conditions and practices must be documented on an on-going basis during remediation work.
  5. Contamination control: Cross-contamination should be controlled. Methods of containments are further defined herein.
  6. Contamination Removal: Physically removing the waste should be removed from the structure as soon as possible. If it is not possible at the time, then begin to decontaminate by cleaning and then apply an antimicrobial. Followed by encapsulation.
  7. Application of disinfectant: To ensure that structures, and contents are safe for use, use a government registered antimicrobial following the directions on the label.
  8. Post-Remediation evaluation and verification: Perform a post-remediation evaluation of all affected areas confirming cleanliness. If required by law, or in the contract of work then it should be performed by an IEP.

If you have an issue related to biohazard contamination, even sewage back-ups call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148, we are always ready to help!

Community Associations: How can we help?

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood has been a proud member of WSCAI (Washington State Community Associations Institute) for nearly 15 years. Our goal is to serve condominium associations in Lynnwood and the greater pacific northwest by understanding their unique needs and wants. This comes from expertise, knowledge and experience. A vendor is only as good as their employees.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood can proudly say we have an excellent team that is well experienced in serving condominiums and is privy to rules surrounding insurance, documentation and all the moving parts that can come from dealing with a multifamily building.

We want to know what issues and concerns are important to our local condominium associations. How can we be of service? In fact, our SERVPRO of Lynnwood team is happy to meet with boards members and educate or assist with;

  • Emergency preparedness
  • Safety Planning
  • Workshops or Q & A’s regarding water damage or fire damage working process.
  • Questions regarding the SERVPRO process and insurance claims

If you would like to meet us, ask questions or have us speak on a specific topic, please reach out to us at 425-774-1148. We are happy to be a guest and provide food or beverages for your next board meeting!

Water Damage from Air Conditioning Equipment: What to look for

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Lynnwood, WA averages 165 sunny days per year with the hottest month being August. Have you noticed an increase in heat lately? You aren’t alone. Many Lynnwood residents are finding themselves turning to their thermostats more this summer than in the past. Local HVAC companies are reporting record sales and more people are installing AC systems in homes that previously went without.

With hot weather and more complex HVAC systems can come more upkeep and problems for homeowners. Because we live in a region that does not use AC year-round there is a much higher need to service in summer months when equipment is utilized.

Many AC units can cause leaks. Some common types of leaks include the following;

Clogged Air Filters

Dirty air filters can block proper airflow over your unit’s evaporator coils, causing them to get too cold and freeze. The melting ice from frozen evaporator coils can cause more water than your HVAC drain pan can handle and results in overflow. 

Leaky HVAC Drain Pan

Drain pans degrade over time because they are constantly exposed to moisture. They eventually need to be replaced and they can develop cracks and holes that create leaks.

Clogged Drain Line

Over time, and as water flows through your condensation line, mold and mildew can build up. As part of regular maintenance, pour 1-2 cups of bleach or vinegar into your condensation line every few months to keep it clean.

Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

 If your condensate pump is broken or malfunctioning, then water builds up and will eventually leak out of the HVAC unit.

Low Refrigerant Levels

Low refrigerant levels cause leaks in your refrigerant lines and oftentimes cause the system to shut down. Check your levels often.

We offer 24-hour emergency water damage services throughout the greater Lynnwood area. If you suspect a leak from your HVAC equipment call SERVPRO of Lynnwood immediately at 425-774-1148.

Lynnwood, WA National Night Out

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Lynnwood is a fabulous family friendly place to live with huge economic growth over the past year. New construction and the light rail project have made it a destination for many new residents and new businesses.

Like every community, with growth comes crime. We still experience our fair share of criminal activity and its important to know the first responders who serve our community on a daily basis, making it a safer more enjoyable environment for all.

National Night Out, celebrated by thousands of cities in the United States is an annual community-building event that promotes police-community partnerships and raises awareness about crime in our neighborhoods.

Snohomish County celebrates its own National Night Out August 1st, 2023. It is a great opportunity to get together with friends and meet your neighbors because the best crime prevention strategy is to have a strong social network in your neighborhood. Together, we can make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live.

If your neighborhood wants to have its own event, register your event and officers from Lynnwood or surrounding communities can swing by, meet your group and answer questions about crime prevention.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is proud to support our first responders in celebrating National Night Out. Mark your calendars: August 1st, 2023.

Lynnwood Chamber Hosts Annual Golf Tournament in Partnership with the Lynnwood Parks and Recreation Foundation

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

Are you a golfer that enjoys supporting your community for a good cause? Join the Lynnwood Parks Foundation and the Lynnwood Chamber of Commerce at the Par 4 Kids Golf Tournament Friday July 28th , 2023 at the Lynnwood Municipal Golf Course to help raise funds and awareness about the Lynnwood Recreation Benefit Fund.

 Lynnwood's parks and recreation program offer places for play or rest and provides a connection with nature, neighbors, and the Lynnwood community. With the support of our chamber and participants, the Foundation provides scholarships for low-income youth, seniors, and disabled adults that reside in Lynnwood to participate in a wide array of programs. 

SERVPRO of Lynnwood looks forward to this evet and hopes it is successful for all! We are a proud supporter of the Lynnwood Chamber.

Content Cleaning Methods

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood specializes in restoring contents damaged by storms and other major flooding events. With the mentality of “restore” versus “replace” we can help you save money and preserve sentimental items that are irreplaceable. We use a method called pretesting to determine if an item can successfully be cleaned and restored by first testing a small area to see how it reacts. There are several different methods used to perform content cleaning dependent on severity and type of material. They are as follows;

Dry Cleaning: Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to in-depth cleaning.

Wet Cleaning: An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.

Spray and Wipe: Effective for delicate items.

Abrasive cleaning: Uses agitation to loosen the material.

Foam Cleaning: Used for Upholstery or fabrics that are sensitive.  Prevents color bleeding or stretching.

Immersion Cleaning: Utilizes a bath of water and cleaning product to submerge or otherwise soak the material.

SERVPRO of Lynnwood does onsite content cleaning and storage in our state of the art 15,000 square foot warehouse. Call us with questions, anytime! 425-774-1148.

Carpet Cleaning In Commercial Buildings

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Lynnwood is not just an emergency service company; we also provide commercial cleaning to anybody that might need it on a regular basis or perhaps a onetime deep clean. SERVPRO offers five different types of cleaning services when it comes to carpets. To determine what type of carpet cleaning is best for your carpet depends on what fibers it is made of, and what is making your carpet dirty. Each method is used for different types of carpets and different soil levels.  

Our 5 different carpet cleaning methods include:

Bonnet Cleaning: A less aggressive Method designed for short piled Carpets

Hot Water Extraction: A deeper cleaning method useful for all types of carpets

Deluxe Pre-cleaning 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

Some methods clean better than others and therefore can vary in price. SERVPRO of Lynnwood will make sure it uses the best choice and most necessary method for getting your carpet looking like brand new. Also, keep in mind that the IICRC states that 79% of soil found in carpets is dry. Vacuuming regularly is one of the most effective ways to keep your carpets clean and make them last longer.

SERVPRO’s main goal throughout its history is to “develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness and mutual respect” which has since become our mission statement. SERVPRO now has 1,700 franchises located nationwide and is considered the pinnacle of the cleaning and restoration industry. If you need a deep clean or carpet clean for your commercial space or residence don’t hesitate to contact our team at 425-774-1148.

5 Tips for Effective Office Cleaning

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Focus Most on Cleaning High Traffic Areas

Focus on the high traffic areas of the office, they will need the most in-depth, focused attention. Walkways, waiting rooms, break rooms and bathrooms are the most important areas to tackle with fast and effective office cleaning. Once those zones are clean, you can pay attention to areas that are not as commonly used.

Dust from Top to Bottom

When you dust, start with the highest surface you want to clean, like ceilings, light fixtures, picture frames or fan blades. Dust will fall to lower parts of the room as you go and can be vacuumed up versus creating more of a mess if you do upper surfaces last. Take care of the top first and you’ll only have to go over each surface one time.

Clean Floors from Back to Front

Whether you are vacuuming, mopping, or sweeping, you want to start with the back corner of the room and work your way out the door. This will prevent you from stepping on the same areas and tracking in dirt in the process. Use long, firm strokes when you vacuum, and try to only make one stroke over each part of the floor.

Use Specific Cleaning Products for Intended surfaces

Pay attention to what surfaces you are cleaning and use the specific products intended for them. Some office furniture might need wood polish while glass surfaces need glass cleaner to prevent streaking. Keyboards and other electronics require a compressed air product.

Have a Routine Office Cleaning Schedule

Ideally, you should have a routine office-cleaning plan with a team of professionals. This relives burden from employees and establishes a schedule. SERVPRO of Lynnwood offers deep cleaning janitorial options monthly, quarterly or yearly and is happy to provide you with a quote for your office space! Call us at 425-774-1148.

Preserving Paper Documents After Flooding

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Exposure to water could possibly destroy and ruin paper documents. Whether it is a flood, leak, or other moisture, documents can be ruined incredibly fast. Some of these documents have a lot of monetary, sentimental or educational value especially when they are papers that are required to be preserved by law, hold historical value or are proprietary. It is important to move fast and try to dry out and save these documents as soon as possible. SERVPRO of Lynnwood has experience preserving documents for city buildings, law firms, banks, museums and educational facilities. There are 4 common ways to save paper documents. Each method has its own advantages. The types of drying are as follows.

  1. Vacuum Freeze-Drying: during this process papers are put into an airtight chamber and negative vacuum pressure is generated. This rapidly freezes them and puts them into a dry state.
  2. Desiccant Air Drying: Papers are placed on racks and shelves in a room with a dehumidifier. The paper is continuously dried, and this process takes around 7 days.
  3. Cleaning and Sterilization: This process is used when there is dirt, fungi, or grime on the paper. They are wiped with sponges and scrub pads while avoiding the use of liquid solutions. After that a HEPA vacuum system may be used to disinfect and sterilize.
  4. Digital Imaging: This process is used before the flood. Take pictures/Scan in the document and save them to the computer or the cloud

With these methods saving paper is a strong possibility, but sometimes it is not always possible to save these documents, thinking ahead and taking precautions before disaster strikes is a great first step. Be mindful of where papers are stored and consider electronic backup as well. If you need help with document drying call SERVPRO of Lynnwood at 425-774-1148.

How To Prevent Electrical Fires

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Electronics are a daily part of our life and we often forget the dangers that can be associated with lighting fixtures, chargers, appliances and more. At SERVPRO of Lynnwood we have responded to hundreds of electrical fires over the years helping our customers get their lives and homes back to normal. Keep in mind the following tips to reduce the risk of an electrical malfunction:

  1. On a regular basis, have the home inspected for loose wires, shorts, and faulty wiring that increase the risk of potential electrical fires, as electrical wiring eventually needs to be replaced. This is especially pertinent if one lives in an older home. Signs that faulty wiring is a pressing issue can include flickering lamps, buzzing outlets, or outlets that spark when an electronic device is plugged in. If one of these indications occurs, do not delay in in hiring a certified electrician to give the home an inspection to determine if the wiring is safe or if it is in need of rewiring.
  2. Install a smoke detector on every level of the home and inside each bedroom. It is vital to make sure the smoke detectors are working properly by testing them every month. Test the detectors to ensure that all members of the home know the sound of the smoke detector. Also, create a plan so that the entire family knows what to do in case of an actual fire. Once a plan is in place, practice each aspect of fire-escape strategy to guarantee its success.
  3. Utilize safety measures with electric cords. This includes replacing cords that are loose, frayed, or contains cracks. Never place cords in areas that receive a large volume of foot traffic, such as under mats or carpeting. Avoid tacking cords to surfaces with nails or staples. If an extension cord is being used on a long-term basis, consider having outlets installed by a certified electrician nearer to your electronic devices.
  4. Only use the correct wattage light bulbs in all fixtures. If the wattage is higher than the requirement noted on the lamp or appliance, replace the bulbs immediately. Firmly secure light bulbs in the socket to safeguard them from overheating.
  5. Use a surge protector to guard appliances and other electronics in your home. 
  6. Store flammables away from electrical appliances. It is helpful to establish a safe, designated area for flammable chemicals in your home.
  7. Place a fire extinguisher in all major rooms of the home, such as kitchen, bedrooms, and laundry room. Have all family members read the instructions on how to use the fire extinguisher.