What to buy in November

11/2/2018 (Permalink)

Halloween is over and Thanksgiving is right around the corner!  Here's what to buy in November:

• Halloween decor: it's never too early to prep for next Halloween, with decor and other trinkets going on sale!
• Cookies and candy: Between slashed Halloween candy and prepping for the winter holidays, these tasty treats and the materials to make them are on deep discount
• Cooking and flatware: Stock up on some kitchenware for your Thanksgiving feast! 
• Blu-ray movies: in anticipation for gift-giving season, Blu-rays will be on sale

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

What to buy in October

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

Fall is here, and soon we'll be seeing little goblins and ghouls lining up at the door for candy.  Here's what to buy in October:

• Coats and winter clothing: It's a little hard to think about winter when we still have 85 degree days, but soon enough cold weather will be here.  
• Bikes: Bikes start to go on sale this month.  Hold off for deeper discounts if you're not in a hurry, but if you need a bike now, this is not a bad time.
• Patio Furniture: Since summer is at a close, patio and outdoor furniture will be at a steep discount to make room for fall and winter decor.  

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Flu Season Starting Early

9/17/2018 (Permalink)

Although it's still warm outside, flu season is right around the corner.  The CDC says that flu season will start earlier than it typically does this year, with a few scattered cases already in the tr-state area.  

How do you know if you have the flu?  Here are a few symptoms:

• fever
• chills
• body aches
• fatigue
• sore throat
• runny nose

The flu can often be confused with the common cold.  Here is a handy comparison list.

The best way to prevent the flu is with a flu shot.  Most doctors, pharmacies, and even groceries stores such as Kroger will offer them, often without a co-pay.  The Cabell-Huntington Health Department will offer them for free starting September 28.  They have a walk-in clinic, but will also be offering them throughout Cabell county on select days (here's a list).  Stay safe and healthy, Huntington!

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

DIY Projects: Leaky Toilet

9/14/2018 (Permalink)

When things go wrong in the home, it can be intimidating to fix them yourself.  However, with a few handy tools and some know-how, many things can be repaired by you.  

If water is leaking around the base of your toilet, it could mean that you have a bad wax ring.  To tell if this is the problem, squirt some food coloring into the toilet and flush; if the water around your base is that color, it's the wax ring.  The wax ring itself is a one-size-fits-all $5 part you can find in any hardware store.  The biggest obstacle you may face is lifting the toilet, which can be anywhere from 75 pounds upward.  You may need a second person for help.

For a step by step guide with photos on how to do this, here's a handy cheatsheet from Lowe's. 

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

What to buy in September

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

School is back in session, and although the weather is still just as hot, soon we'll have cool mornings and hot coffees.  Here's what's going on sale this month:

• Kids' Clothing: Sure, you've hit the back to school sales, but right now is when kids' clothes *really* go on sale
• Lawnmowers: Outdoor and home improvement stores will be slashing prices to move them for next year's models.
• Tomatoes: We're coming up on the end of tomato season, and as such, they're on sale!

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Pool safety

8/22/2018 (Permalink)

Summer is almost officially over, but the weather will still stay warm in Huntington long into October. There's still plenty of prime pool time!  While swimming can be a fun time for families, it also carries some risk.  Here's how to stay safe:

• Keep children under supervision at all times
• Enroll your children in swimming lessons
• Maintain proper chemical levels in the pool
• Learn first aid and CPR
• Install proper drain covers to avoid injury
• Create a barrier around the pool to keep unattended children from accessing the pool
• Have a professional make sure your pool is deep enough for a diving board
• Never swim alone

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Congrats to our raffle winners

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

In office, we held a raffle for two prizes, a camping lamp and a Marshall University hat.  Proceeds from the raffle go to fund an office pizza party.  Congrats to winners Alexis and Earl! At SERVPRO of Huntington, we like having fun with our employees. Stay tuned for more fun events for our employees, our agents, and readers at home! 

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

What to buy in March

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

After an unseasonably warm and rainy February, Huntington is ready for March.  Will it come in like a lion? Out like a lamb?  You may not be ready for the weather, but you can be ready for some savings.  Here's what goes on sale in March:

• Chocolate: The retail world is in a post-Valentine's, pre-Easter limbo, so now is a great time to stock up on the sweet stuff
• Luggage: Retailers are desperate to get last year's models sold before vacation season, so prices are slashed
• Houses: This is a big one that you can't really "stock up" on, but if you're in the market for a house, spring is the busiest season.  March is an ideal time to make deals to avoid the heavy traffic
• Frozen foods: Since March is Frozen Food Month, it's the perfect time to stock up on mini pizzas, burritos, and out of season veggies
• Cleaning supplies: Get ready for your spring cleaning routine!  

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Home investments that boost value

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Income tax refunds are starting to come in, and for many folks, this can mean saving up for a vacation or buying a new TV.  If you're looking to sell your home in the future, however, you may be better off using the money to invest in your home and boost the value of it.  

• Replace your furnace or HVAC system
• Insulate your attic
• Update your plumbing
• Update your electrical work if it's an old house
• Remove wood paneling
• Remove popcorn ceilings
• Update your bathroom with modern energy efficient fixtures
• Upgrade your kitchen appliances
• Hire a home inspector to spot problems
• Plant a tree in your yard
• Replace worn rugs and carpet

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

What to buy in February

1/26/2018 (Permalink)

Wow! January sure went by quickly!  Between Valentine's Day and the Super Bowl, a lot is going on in February.  For the budget conscious, it also means some deep discounts.  Let's take a look at what goes on sale in February:

• Winter coats and clothing: No matter what the groundhog says, you're going to need a coat for at least another month.  Retailers have already started slashing prices to get ready for spring, so this is a great time to pick up a spare for you or a coat drive.
• Humidifiers: In a similar vein, new models of humidifiers come out in spring, so February is the time they start reducing the old models.
• TVs and home theaters: Are you ready for some football? If not, retailers have got you covered. Besides Black Friday, February is the best time to buy a TV.
• Snacks: Consider waiting until February 1 rolls around to get ready for the Big Game. Soda, chips, and other Super Bowl fare will be on sale.
• Mouthwash and Toothpaste: Stores bank on you kissing a sweetie on Valentine's Day, so they reduce all things to make your breath smell good! 

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Fireplace Safety

1/15/2018 (Permalink)

One of the best things on a cold night is a hot fire and a good book.  With a few tips, you can have a safe and cozy night at home.

• Only burn dry, cured wood.  That means wood that has dried for 8-12 months.  Green wood can cause soot build up in your chimney.
• Don't burn treated or construction wood.  It can be chemically treated and produce dangerous fumes when burned.
• Never leave a fire unattended, especially around children.
• Place a nonflammable rug in front of your fireplace to absorb any sparks that could damage your carpet.
• Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
• Use your fireplace doors.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand just in case.
• Build your fire slowly.
• Get your chimney cleaned twice a year and inspected once a year.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Huntington! Stay safe on the roads

1/8/2018 (Permalink)

Winter is officially here, and the worst thing that can interrupt your work commute is bad weather.  Here's a few tips to make sure you stay safe:

• Keep your gas tank at least half-full.  Empty tanks can cause your battery to drain.
• Keep an ice scraper, shovel, and salt in your car
• Clear snow and ice from your windshields, mirrors, and roof
• Slow down! Reduce your speed to avoid hydroplaning
• Keep up basic maintenance on things like your windshield wipers, radiator, and oil level
• Don't drive impaired or distracted
• Leave early to avoid speeding
• If you are stranded by the side of the road, you can leave your heater on ten minutes every hour to stay warm; make sure there's no built-up snow in the exhaust pipe, however!
• Don't use cruise control on a wet surface
• Always wear your seatbelt

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

What to buy in January

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Now that the holidays have passed, you may have some gift cards burning a hole in your pocket.  What should you buy?  You could always treat yourself to a nice new outfit or a DVD set.  However, there are certain items going on sale this month that would be a good investment.

Air Conditioner Units: It may be difficult to think about air conditioning when the temperature is reaching the teens right now, but January is the perfect time to get ready for the summer.

Gas Grills: Speaking of which, grills are heavily discounted at your local hardware or home goods stores

Linens: Ever since the first department store created the White Sale in 1878, January has been the month for sales on bed sheets, comforters, and other bed accessories

Clothes: Many clothing stores are banking on gift cards as presents and heavily marking down their clothes, especially winter fashions.

Fitness/Diet accessories: How many of you made a fitness or health related New Year's resolution? Stores are counting on that to move water bottles, yoga gear, Fit Bits, and other related items.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Cutting down on Christmas E-waste

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

By now you've eaten your cookies, drank your punch, and unwrapped your presents.  You may be left with a chronic case of "now what?" when you see a pile of old electronics, used wrapping paper, and other cast-offs.  Today we'll go over ways to keep some of those items out of landfills and possibly going to someone in need.

E-Waste

E-Waste is short for electronic waste, which is any electric appliance you want to get rid of.  It's important to get rid of these items in an eco-safe way and not just include them with your household trash.  These items can leak toxins like lead, cadmium, and mercury into the ground and cause problems miles away from the landfill the items end up in.  

If the item you want to get rid of is in working order, consider donating it to Goodwill or another charity.  Not only does that keep it out of a landfill, it also gets you a nice tax write-off. Something like a working TV or computer could make a good addition to a youth charity, community center, or retirement community.

If the items don't work anymore, there are a few options.  Goodwill of KYOWVA accepts E-waste and recycles it; the drop-off location is 525 W. 19th St.  Best Buy recycles E-waste, and Staples recycles computers.  If you are recycling a computer, remember to back up all your files and wipe your hard drive to prevent identity theft.

SERVPRO of Huntington wishes you and your family a Happy New Year!

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Holiday Pet Safety

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

The holidays can be an exciting yet stressful time for us humans, but this can be doubly so for our animal friends.  Dogs, cats, and other pets can create holiday havoc in unexpected ways.  Here are some tips to prevent a pet emergency:

• Make sure your tree is anchored or secured so your animal friends don't knock it over
• Put a cover over real tree water sources, as they can contain fertilizers that are toxic to animals
• Avoid holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias, as these plants are lethal to pets
• Tinsel can obstruct cats' digestive systems if swallowed, so consider other tree decorations
• Do not feed your pets human holiday treats, like chocolate, raisins, onions, turkey and turkey skin, and fatty foods
• For parties and other events where there may be noise and strangers, have a quiet room for your pets to retreat to.

SERVPRO of Huntington wishes you and your furry family members a happy and safe holiday season.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Are Christmas trees good for the economy and environment?

12/13/2017 (Permalink)

Cutting your own Christmas tree can help the economy and the environment!

The real-vs-"fake" Christmas tree debate has been going on for decades.  There are several advantages to a fake tree: no watering, easy to take down and put up, lasts for years if taken care of.  However, if you're looking at how your choice impacts the environment and the economy, real trees may be the way to go.  

Real Christmas tree are a great asset to the economy.  They reportedly bring in $1.3 billion per year, mostly on family-owned farms that create over 100,000 jobs.  If you're looking to support a family-owned business, there are four Christmas tree farms within an hour of Huntington.  If you don't want the work of cutting your own tree down, Huntington Big Brothers Big Sisters is selling trees at the 6th Avenue BB&T. 

Real trees may also be better for the environment.  For starters, they're biodegradable, unlike plastic trees.  They also grow for an average of 15 years; while they grow, they provide oxygen and habitats for wildlife.  They're a sustainable crop and often grow in conditions that other crops can't grow.  

SERVPRO of Huntington wishes you a happy and safe holiday season, no matter which side of the tree debate you are on.  

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 304-429-2233 

About SERVPRO of Huntington

SERVPRO of Huntington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.