TYPES OF SMOKE DAMAGE Even after a fire is put out, smoke damage can cause long-lasting harm to your home, your belongings, and your family. Smoke (and the soot that comes with it) contain several different acids that can cause corrosion. Smoke can damage metal, marble, and glass in your house. It can cause discoloration…
FLOOD WATCH VS WARNING: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? When your local weather service issues a watch or watching for a tornado, hurricane, or other natural disaster, it probably makes you stop what you’re doing and start going through your mental checklist. Family emergency plan, safe shelter, preparedness kit – you want to make sure you have everything in place…
HOW DO WILDFIRES START? The past several years wildfires have been rampant, ravaging parts of California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington. In 2018 alone, 8.7 million acres of land were burned in wildfires. Why do these wildfires seem to be getting more intense and more frequent with time? Hot, dry conditions are often pointed as being the main…
BENEFITS OF USING PROFESSIONAL OFFICE CLEANING SERVICES Employees who are able to work in a clean, healthy office often have less sick days and are more productive. A commercial office cleaning service enables you to focus on running your business and not the daily removal of dirt, grime and more from your facilities. There are…
Rising temperatures, more sunshine, and blooming flowers – spring is here! It’s a season of transformation as the snow melts away and flowers start to bloom, and one that motivates many to start a home improvement project (or two). If you’re ready to upgrade your property – inside and out — a great first step…
Bacteria and viruses can both present a health hazard. They’re both pathogens, both referred to as “germs,” and can both cause illness and infection. But they behave very differently. They way that they function and reproduce differs greatly, and they each require different preventative measures and treatments. Knowing which one you’re up against (and how…
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 2,900 dryer fires are reported each year. These fires lead to a staggering national average of 35 million dollars in property damage, 100 injuries and 5 fatalities annually. With so much at risk, it’s important that you understand what causes dryer fires and how you can prevent them from happening…
MILDEW VS MOLD While there are many differences between the two fungi, mold and mildew both develop and thrive in moist conditions. A leaking roof, a window that doesn’t seal properly, and a basement with water damage caused by a broken pipe can all lead to the growth of mildew and mold. In order to…
CHECKLIST TO TRANSITION FROM WINTER TO SPRING Ready your home for warm weather and prevent water damage from snowmelt and spring showers by following our simple list of items to check and maintain around your home. Gutters: Just as it’s important to clean your gutters before winter weather hits, it’s equally crucial to check them afterward. Look…
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your home is a key part of protecting yourself from getting sick. Bacteria and viruses can live on frequently touched surfaces and high-traffic areas, ensuring that if anyone in your residence is sick, then everyone is at risk. In their comings and goings, the people in your household who aren’t sick…
Check your heating system. Make sure your heat source is in solid working condition now so you don’t struggle to stay warm when the cold weather hits. Reduce the risk of chimney fires by cleaning out fireplaces and wood stoves before you use them this year. If it’s been a long time since you fired yours up,…
With the end of the year comes several things: holidays, time spent with loved ones, gearing up for a new year and a dramatic change of weather. You’ve already prepared for the holidays, but are you ready for the next big snowstorm? Find out how to prepare for a snowstorm, so that you, your family…
TYPES OF CONTAMINATED WATER Water damage can be a devastating and dangerous experience for any homeowner, whether it’s confined to the basement or dispersed throughout the entire home. In order to stay safe, it’s important to understand the different types of contaminated water and how each type might affect you. Learn more about the effects…
Storm safety is about more than just stocking up on snacks. While it can be fun to hunker down with candles and board games, it’s still important to stay safe inside while keeping an eye on what’s going on outside. When the power’s out and the WiFi is down, the experts at ServiceMaster 4U recommend…
HELPING YOUR REBUILD YOUR HOME Cleaning up your home following a flood, fire, or another disaster can be a daunting task. Some areas of your home may simply need to be cleaned, while others will require more extensive repairs, and in some cases, reconstruction. At ServiceMaster Restore®, we are experts in the home restoration industry…
A leaking roof can create a lot of damage quickly and, if left neglected, can compromise the building’s strength, foundation and overall structure. When roof failures happen, we can help. We’ll get your business back on track by providing fast, dependable solutions delivered by highly trained and knowledgeable ServiceMaster Restore experts. Along with the latest…
Basements are the lowest point in a home and tend to flood first during any kind of water emergency. When the unexpected happens, we’re onsite within 2-4 hours to restore your home as quickly as possible. With rapid response, your floors, walls and personal property can often be restored. Water intrusions can occur in basements…
More than damaging your business, sewage backups and flooding can be a health hazard. Sewage and floods can contain bacteria, viruses and other germs that can cause disease and illness. While sewer back-ups are most commonly found in private service lines, they can also be the result of problems in the main sewer line in…
Cleaning and removing smoke odor from carpets and upholstery is a complex job. Doing it right takes the expertise of professionals who have undergone extensive training. Better yet, choose the professionals who set industry standards: ServiceMaster Restore. Our experts start by evaluating your situation to determine the best cleaning and restoration methods. Then, we go to…
MAKE THE RIGHT FIRST IMPRESSION WITH A CLEAN OFFICE SPACE. Eliminate dust, dirt, unpleasant odors and more from your office building with comprehensive cleaning services from ServiceMaster Clean. A fresh and pristine office emphasizes professionalism and creates a healthy work atmosphere for your employees. We’ll work with you develop a customized cleaning program for your…
Germs and viruses can’t be avoided, but healthcare facilities must be especially vigilant in controlling them – and if the proper steps aren’t taken to avoid it, cross-contamination in hospitals and other healthcare settings can put staff and patients at increased risk. The spread of bacteria and other pathogens is particularly concerning for people with compromised immune…
Coronavirus Cleaning Information from ServiceMaster of Flint Dear ServiceMaster Customer, As experts in creating clean, safe and healthy environments, we at ServiceMaster would like to share our expertise to help you enhance preventive protocols for your office. The current flu season, along with the outbreak of a newer pathogen, the coronavirus (COVID-19), offers an opportunity…
FOR HEALTHCARE CLEANING SERVICES, SERVICEMASTER CLEAN DELIVERS THE EXCEPTIONAL. For more than 65+ years, ServiceMaster Clean has been known for excellence in environmental services and management. Over the years, ServiceMaster Clean has served in excess of 4,000 hospitals and healthcare facilities nationwide. Reasons why we’re the industry standard: 60% of our franchise network services healthcare…
COMMERCIAL TILE & GROUT CLEANING SERVICES FLINT BUSINESSES CAN RELY ON. WASH AWAY DIRT AND GRIME FROM TILE FLOORING FOR A LIKE-NEW LOOK. Because of its durability and low maintenance, tile flooring is a popular choice for corporate offices, hospitals, hotels, schools, restaurants and more. But regular mopping can’t reach the dirt and grime that…
A business’s lobby is the first impression someone gets of your company. Whether a customer, client, employee or potential partner walks through your doors, you want them to be welcomed by a comfortable, inviting and aesthetically pleasing space. That’s why it’s critical that your lobby stays fresh and clean throughout the day. Use these five…
How to Clean a Hoarder’s Home Dealing with a loved one who is unable to take care of themselves is never easy. Hoarding is no different. Over the years, the stigma surrounding hoarders, such as lazy and unorganized, have plagued people’s minds. However, we know that it’s far from the truth. As of May 2013,…
The captivating fragrances and mood-enhancing ambiance of candles can create a lovely atmosphere in your home. Scented candles leave a lingering aroma that can cover up unpleasant odors, and the calm, welcoming glow of a lit wick makes it easy to unwind after a long day. With the quick strike of a match, you can…
Contaminants such as mold may cause poor indoor air quality. Research shows that people spend up to 90% of their time indoors. Studies conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and others show that indoor environments sometimes can have levels of pollutants that are actually higher than levels found outside. According to the Occupational…
Blizzards, snow storms and other winter-related disasters cause more than delays and destruction each year – they can also cause death. If you live in an area known for its dangerous winter storms, it’s crucial to be prepared for the worst before it happens to you. Having a winter weather safety kit with you this…
Your kitchen is a hub of daily activity. It’s a place to nourish your family, entertain friends and even retreat for a secret midnight snack. The kitchen is the heart of any home, which is why a kitchen fire can be especially devastating. Even a small fire has the potential to cause significant damage and…
One of the worst contaminants known is the silent but dangerous growth of mold. Mold can grow indoors on wet or damp surfaces, such as wallpaper, ceiling tiles, carpets, insulation material, wood and drywall. It can start to grow within 48 hours and if left unchecked, can have serious impacts on both your quality of…
When a fire damages your home, dealing with the aftermath can seem overwhelming. If the fire damage restoration process is delayed, the destruction caused by smoke and soot can make matters even worse. The longer you wait to address fire damage, the more repairs you may have to fix. As unfortunate as a disaster like…
Dealing with water damage is one of the most challenging emergencies a homeowner can experience. When flooding occurs, knowing how to respond within a timely manner is important to prevent further problems from developing. Since water damage can come from multiple sources, using specific procedures to minimize loss is essential.The professionals at ServiceMaster Flint are…
As a business owner, your building is your biggest asset. As hard as you focus on keeping your commercial property protected, you can’t always prevent problems like pipe bursts, frozen plumbing lines, backed up drains or a flood from occurring. The experts at ServiceMaster Livingston want to make sure you have the knowledge you need…
As an urgent care facility owner or manager, living up to the best quality of care is contingent upon the quality of your urgent care cleaning practices. An urgent care cleaning checklist should follow best practices and procedures set forth by leading organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational…
As a homeowner, it’s essential to know where the main water shut off valve is located. Water leaks from running toilets, burst pipes, broken water heaters, and even leaky sinks can cause significant damage in a short amount of time. In order to prevent costly damage, turn off the water supply as soon as a leak, flood,…
If a fire breaks out in your business, acting fast to put out the flames could save you from costly damage and loss. That’s why commercial fire sprinkler systems are so important. Although sprinkler systems can protect you, your staff, your customers and your business from harm, myths about fire sprinklers still exist. Find out…
As a facility manager or supervisor, the state of your building is a direct reflection of your company. Regardless of what industry you’re in, you likely only have one chance to make a good first impression on potential clients, current customers, and even existing and future staff members. While maintaining a clean and sanitary environment…
Cleaning office equipment does more than make it look good. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cleaning and sanitizing frequently touched items in the workplace can help to reduce the spread of illness throughout the office, supporting a healthy and productive work environment. Find out what other benefits come with regularly…
Planning and prepping for your holiday party takes a lot of work. While you’re going through your list and checking it twice, don’t forget to take time for floor protection! Hardwood, tile, carpet and other flooring can take a beating with large holiday crowds in your home. In order to protect your investment, make sure…
A stuffy nose, pounding head and scratchy throat – the symptoms of a cold and the flu can sometimes overlap. Can you quickly determine which illness is which? Both may make you feel exhausted, both are a form of respiratory infection and both are caused by specific viruses. While the common cold and the flu…
HOW TO DEEP CLEAN YOUR HOME AFTER THE FLU While the flu is a common illness, it can pose risks even for healthy adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), otherwise healthy adults who have the flu may be contagious one day before symptoms even develop, and can continue infecting others…
Get ready for this year’s National PrepareAthon! Day. Every year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) puts together a preparedness day to help people move from awareness to action in their communities. Since disasters can happen anywhere with little to no warning, learning the risks associated with your area can help you prepare for, respond to and…
Whether you’re the proud parent of one tail-wagging, four-legged friend or a whole pack of them, it’s not uncommon for dog owners to notice a distinct odor inside their homes. And once you smell it, you’re not likely to forget it. Beyond the pungent smell of housebreaking training accidents, lingering dog odors usually smell like…
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing your hands with soap is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. This is especially important in healthcare settings. While the general rule of thumb is to thoroughly wash hands with soap and water, in certain situations, hand sanitizer…
Healthcare settings are meant to treat people. However, nurses, doctors, surgeons, and other healthcare workers are exposed to several hazards and dangerous materials while on the job, putting themselves and even their patients at risk. To help protect your staff while they care for patients, use this list from ServiceMaster Clean® to discover the most…
Today’s businesses have options for reducing their energy bills and adopting more environmentally friendly practices at the same time. Even small changes can add up to cost savings when your business chooses to invest in energy-efficient initiatives. From switching to LED bulbs (and switching them off when not in use) to cleaning the vents to…
Some homeowners avoid hiring a professional, fearing that their services aren’t worth the expense. However, if you’re unable to clean your home regularly, without help, the compounded neglect could cost you even more in the long run. Discover the benefits of deep cleaning from trusted professionals, and use our tips to find out whether it…
With fresh buds on the trees and the first flowers in bloom, spring is truly a season for renewal. As the weather warms, there’s no better time for facility managers to freshen up their buildings with a few fixes and improvements, especially after a harsh winter season. Prepare your facility for this vibrant new season…
The holiday season is a tremendously busy time for many households. Between shopping, traveling, and entertaining, deep cleaning often takes a backseat to quick tasks like wiping down counters and tables or quickly sweeping the floors. Because the holidays take such a heavy toll on cleanliness, launching a deep cleaning project in January can help…
Shopping for light bulbs isn’t what it used to be. Before modern advances in lightbulb technology, all you had to do was grab the nearest incandescent light bulb in the appropriate wattage. Today, light bulbs come in an array of styles, ranging from halogen incandescent bulbs to more energy-efficient options, such as compact fluorescent (CFL)…
Around any holiday season, you’ll be busy planning, shopping, cooking and cleaning in preparation of having guests over. While you occupy yourself with getting organized, spot cleaning surfaces and creating your menu, have you considered all the spills and carpet stains your delicious meal could cause once your family and friends arrive? It always seems…
ServiceMaster Flint is asked frequently, “How often should I deep clean my carpets?” Although it shouldn’t be your daily priority, keeping carpets and rugs looking their best does require routine cleaning. There are several factors that should be considered when determining how often to clean carpet. How Often to Clean Carpets: Residential Traffic Soil Rating…
The air we breathe is often filled with toxic or irritating chemicals and pollutants known as volatile organic compounds, or VOCs – and you’re not necessarily safe from their effects just because you’re inside. In fact, staying inside without an effective air filtering system in place can put you at increased risk for health problems…
Schools can harbor plenty of germs, which makes regular cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting a must. Since summer break is almost over and children will head back to school with their new supplies, books, and germs in tow, now is the perfect time to prepare. Clean your school thoroughly this summer to ensure everything is shiny…
You want your healthcare facility to deliver the best treatment in a safe, appealing environment for patients. If you’re designing your facility from scratch or just giving the space a little sprucing up, you have to consider more than looks, however. You want furniture that’s easy to clean, durable and safe for patients, too. When…
If you manage environmental cleaning for a healthcare facility, patient and staff safety is one of your top priorities. Beyond reducing health and safety risks, a spotless facility is critical to your practice’s retention rate and financial success. The appearance of your facility reflects the quality of your practice and creates memorable impressions for your…
A patient’s perception of their healthcare environment will impact their overall experience and opinion of your practice. Patient satisfaction scores and health facility quality performance metrics, like the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) and Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS), include several questions specifically targeting facility cleanliness. You want…
After finishing a home renovation project, you’re ready to sit back and enjoy your new space, right? Not so fast. Before you can kick up your feet, you need to complete a post-construction cleaning marathon. Your primary focus should be removing all the dust that results from construction before it ends up in your air…
Whether you’re the proud parent of one tail-wagging, four-legged friend or a whole pack of them, it’s not uncommon for dog owners to notice a distinct odor inside their homes. And once you smell it, you’re not likely to forget it. Beyond the pungent smell of housebreaking training accidents, lingering dog odors usually smell like…
With cold winters come happy snow days, beautiful landscapes and peaceful moments. If you have hardwood floors, though, the season could also bring damage to your beautiful, natural flooring. Luckily, there are a few easy ways you can protect your hardwood floors from the effects of cold, wet winter. Use the hardwood floor care tips…
Winter often brings cold and wet weather. Most people respond by keeping doors and windows securely closed and staying warm and cozy inside. While it may sound comforting to stay cooped up at home when it’s cold outside, there are a range of irritants commonly found indoors that could affect the quality of your office…
New Year’s resolutions typically include fitness goals or the breaking of unhealthy habits. What about the unhealthy habit of dirty living? January is the perfect time to establish a New Year’s cleaning plan to refresh your home and your spirits. That’s why we’ve put together a list of our favorite New Year cleaning tips and ideas…