Recent Posts

Women in Restoration Interview with Owner Katie Dobson

3/18/2024 (Permalink)

Why did you get into SERVPRO ownership?

I was introduced to SERVPRO while dating my now-husband (Andrew Dobson) and working for my now-father-in-law (Jimmy Dobson). Over the years, I got to experience each area of the business and discovered I truly enjoyed it. After Andy and I got married, we decided this was an incredible investment and ultimately got into ownership. With the help of our incredible team, my husband Andrew, father-in-law Jimmy, and I have had the opportunity to grow our business to an MMO that spans across Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. Our goal is to provide the best career opportunities with the best compensation packages. We believe in changing families for the better and leaving a legacy for our own family. This business has been a key contributor in helping us work toward accomplishing those goals.

Why were you drawn to a male-dominated industry?

I was drawn to this industry simply out of opportunity, and I stayed in this industry because of a different kind of opportunity. It has become a passion of mine to help others – help clients restore their homes, businesses, and belongings or help employees build or restore their personal lives. The opportunities to change lives in this industry while adding value to our employees are so valuable to me. There are many important roles for women in SERVPRO, and I appreciate the opportunity to be a female leader in our business.

What’s the biggest piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

One of the best pieces of advice comes from my husband, Andrew. He has taught me to focus on excellence rather than perfection and work to get a little better each day. We in the SERVPRO system are a very ambitious, performance-driven group! It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison or pushing for perfection. If your goal is perfection, you will be let down time and again. Setting the bar for excellence will ultimately guide you to success in any area of your life, professional or personal.

What is one of the biggest challenges you have had to overcome in your business?

A few years ago, we experienced a turnover in our upper management team. We had identified managerial teammates who were no longer willing to align with our company vision. With that unalignment was an incredibly toxic culture that was permeating down to those under their leadership. This was an example that sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same. It was very difficult emotionally and absolutely exhausting. However, in turning over those employees, we quickly realized that was one of our biggest blessings in business. It really allowed us to revamp many of our processes and take our business to the next level. I learned a lot about myself during that time and got to strengthen my confidence, experience, and resilience in leadership.

Who is a woman that inspires you and why?

My mom raised me as a single mother for most of my young childhood. I remember my mom working incredibly long days, often picking me up from a caregiver’s home late in the evening when I had already fallen asleep. I also remember a warm, tidy home, lots of playtime, and countless happy memories. Reflecting on my mom’s perseverance fuels my own sense of determination and perseverance in business and motherhood with my two young children. My mom showed me true strength, that love knows no bounds, and a mother’s sacrifice is immeasurable. As a woman, you don’t have to choose. It is possible to achieve personal and professional success!

My 5-year-old daughter, Quinn, is also an inspiration. Watching her watch me totally motivates me to show her through my actions how to be a strong, humble, kind, generous, fun, and hardworking woman!

How can women develop their leadership skills more?

Leadership is a continuous journey of growth and development that does not depend on a title. Women can develop their skills through intentional effort and practice. A key to leadership strength training comes from awareness of self and surroundings. It’s important to be intentional about adding value to those around you – as well as yourself! Other ways to develop leadership skills include setting clear goals, seeking mentorship from other experienced women, building a strong network, practicing effective communication skills, and cultivating resilience.

What are the ways you stay grounded and take care of yourself?

Prayer/worship, mindfulness, and gratitude are the most important ways I try to keep myself grounded. Maintaining a relationship with God at the forefront of my heart and mind ultimately gives me the strength I need to conquer opportunities and challenges. Practicing mindfulness and gratitude keeps me levelheaded and positive.

Finding balance is a constant practice for me, but I continue to try to recognize my imbalances and work on them to take care of myself! Staying self-aware is a big part of that, as well as giving yourself grace!

I started journaling this year, and I love it! There really is something therapeutic about releasing the thoughts and experiences from my head down onto paper. Prioritizing other healthy habits like adequate sleep, clean eating, and exercise is always important… but, for me, enjoying McDonald’s fries is, too!

"As a woman, you don’t have to choose. It is possible to achieve personal and professional success!" - Katie Dobson (owner)

What are Warning Signs of Frozen Pipes?

1/19/2024 (Permalink)

pipe bursting with water It's important to take immediate action if you suspect frozen pipes to prevent them from bursting and causing further damage.

Along with winter comes below freezing temperatures that can put your Boardman, Youngstown, Salem, and surrounding areas home and commercial properties in a bind. Freezing temperatures can cause frozen pipes as well as ice dams. Frozen pipes can be detrimental to your property. Once warmer weather comes along, your frozen pipes can burst from the pressure of the water inside, therefore causing water damage in your home in business. 

Here are warning signs that you have frozen pipes:

  • Reduced water flow or lack of water altogether
  • Strange smells coming from faucets or drains
  • A noticeable drop in water pressure
  • Visible frost on exposed pipes   
  • Banging or cracking noises when you run water
  • Certain appliances stop working

It's important to take immediate action if you suspect frozen pipes to prevent them from bursting and causing further damage. There’s no job too big or too small for SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties. Our highly trained technicians will carefully assess the damage and restore your property to preloss condition as quickly and efficiently as possible. Contact our professionals today! Call (330) 536-7477 or visit our website for more information. 

  

How to Maintain Your Youngstown Commercial Building

11/13/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® trucks at commercial building Maintaining a commercial building is important for the safety and wellbeing of its occupants.

Maintaining a commercial building is important for the safety and wellbeing of its occupants. Regular cleaning and upkeep of floors, walls, and windows are necessary to maintain a professional appearance, prevent wear and tear, and prevent the spread of germs. Regular HVAC maintenance and filter changes are necessary to ensure proper indoor air quality. Plumbing and electrical systems must be regularly inspected to prevent leaks and fires. Scheduling routine inspections and repairs can also help identify potential issues before they become major problems. It is important to hire a reputable and experienced commercial building maintenance company for these tasks to ensure thorough and effective maintenance.


If you have a question about the maintenance of your commercial building in Canfield, Youngstown, Campbell, or surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to give us a call. For assistance you can give us a call, (330) 536-7477 or visit our Website to learn more.

Boardman Commercial Building Maintenance Tips

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

commercial building helped by servpro If you ever need assistance with maintaining your commercial business, give us a call! We are available for you when you need us most.

To ensure the efficient running of Canfield, Youngstown, Boardman commercial buildings, regular maintenance is required. The following tips can help: 

  • Schedule regular inspections and repairs 
  • Keep the HVAC system maintained 
  • Trim the landscaping regularly 
  • Keep the exterior and interior clean 
  • Check and repair any leaks to avoid water damage 
  • Regularly clean gutters and downspouts 
  • Keep fire alarms and extinguishers functional and up-to-date 
  • Schedule regular pest control measures 
  • Upgrade lighting to more energy-efficient options 
  • Train staff on proper cleaning and maintenance protocols.

If you ever need assistance with maintaining your commercial business, give us a call! We are available for you when you need us most. Our team is made up of skilled and trained professionals to get your building cleaned efficiently and thoroughly. If you need us, give us a call, (330) 536-7477 or visit our Website for more information.

Austintown Commercial Water Loss Restored by SERVPRO

10/7/2023 (Permalink)

flooded building SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties is available 24/7 for emergency commercial water disasters.

Commercial water loss is no small deal. When a restaurant, school, entertainment building, government facility, offices, or more experience a water disaster, the damage can be extensive. Ceilings, walls, and floors can all be damaged by water depending on the extent of the disaster.

SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties is available 24/7 for emergency commercial water disasters. Our team is made up of trained and experienced professionals who lead with care and compassion. We are quick to the scene because we understand every minute counts. 


We are a leading water damage restoration company in Austintown, Canfield, Salem, and their surrounding areas. We are a good company to have on speed dial in case a water disaster ever occurs in your commercial buiding. We are available 24/7 because disasters don’t wait. If you find you have experienced a water disaster, for immediate assistance call, (330) 536-7477 or visit our Website to learn more.

What to Expect From Fall Rainstorms in Youngstown

10/7/2023 (Permalink)

water leaking from ceiling Heavy rainfall and strong winds can weaken the structure of your home and cause leaks in the roof or walls.

Tis the season for Fall rainstorms! Fall rainstorms can be a potential threat to any home in Lowellville, Cornersburg, East Palestine and surrounding areas. Heavy rainfall and strong winds can weaken the structure of your home and cause leaks in the roof or walls. This not only causes damage to your property but can also pose a safety hazard to your family. Overflowing gutters or blocked drainage systems can also result in water seeping into the foundation of the home, causing structural damage in the long run. It is crucial to prepare your home for fall rainstorms by inspecting and maintaining your roof, gutters, and drainage systems from time to time.


If you find that you experience water damage or structural damage to your home after a heavy rainstorm, please don’t hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties. We are available 24/7 for emergency water and storm disasters. Our team is made up of highly trained professionals that are experienced and lead with care and compassion. For immediate assistance call, (330) 536-7477 or visit our Website to learn more.

Are Bonfires Safe in Greenford in the Late Summer?

8/31/2023 (Permalink)

bonfire If you have experienced fire damage at your Starrs Corners, Salem, New Springfield, and surrounding areas home, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Late summer presents an opportunity for fires in late August and early September here in Greenford, Willow Crest, Petersburg and their surrounding areas. Careful planning can keep your home safe this Summer. SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties is here to give you some tips about bonfires at your Youngstown home while the hot weather is at its peak.

Get Rid of Young, Sprouted Growth.

Land and Legacy recommends killing young wooded species of tree growth to at least 2 inches DBH. DBH means the diameter of each tree is measured at “breast height”, defined as 1.35m up from the highest point of ground at the tree's base. The biggest culprits of young growth are species like cedar, honey locust, Osage orange, and other sprouts. This can turn the clock back almost three years, says L&L.

Fire Pit Safety

Fire pits can be the highlight of any East Liverpool backyard. Just ensure you are following proper protocol when it comes to burning. Ensure the pit is at least 10 feet away from any structure, avoid windy conditions that can spread embers, and keep a hose or bucket nearby in the case of fire outside the pit.

Firework Safety

The CPSC has some good tips on home firework lighting, “Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks. Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully. Never point or throw fireworks at another person. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap. Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.” No matter how safe and precautions you may be. Accidents can always happen. If you have a fire outbreak at your Negley home.

If you have experienced fire damage at your Starrs Corners, Salem, New Springfield, and surrounding areas home, don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit our website to Learn More.

What Does it Take to Restore Salem Homes After a Disaster?

8/4/2023 (Permalink)

house disaster When your Columbiana home needs restoration, call SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties fast.

You know SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties as an industry leader in fire and water damage restoration. But how did we get there? Not every restoration company can handle the disasters we help the community recover from. What does it take to help members of our community recover from these disasters? There are three tools we utilize:

Training

Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s Corporate Training Facility to regular IICRC industry certifications, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Who is the IICRC?

The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industries. Our Professionals study IICRC standards and best practices in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, and other cleaning and restoration courses.

Experience

SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties is jam packed with experience in the restoration field. We have been serving not just our community, but the entire country. In the past 12 months, we have traveled to Dallas to assist in winter storms and Detroit to assist in the flooding they experienced. We’ve just about seen it all!

Equipment

The last component giving us the ability to handle any disaster thrown your way is equipment. The past few decades have seen a rapid advancement in the technology and techniques used in the restoration industry. These advancements allow our team of professionals to restore your Youngstown property back to preloss condition quickly, reliably, and more effectively.

When your Columbiana home needs restoration, call SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties fast. Let our training, experience, and equipment go to work for you and your family. Call us at (330) 536-7477 or visit our Website to get your home or business to look “Like it never even happened.”

4 Summer Fire Prevention Tips in Youngstown

7/31/2023 (Permalink)

campfire With warm weather comes fire hazards. And summer brings quite a few! Allow SERVPRO to give you some tips on how to be safe from fire this summer.

With warm weather comes fire hazards. And summer brings quite a few! Allow SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties to give you some tips on how to be safe from fire this summer.

Campfires

Campfires sure can be fun. Summer brings s’mores and fun around the warm flame. But ensure that you fire is contained by keeping it away, at least 25 feet, from a structure, shrubs, or anything else that is flammable.

Fireworks

Fireworks are extremely dangerous and should be left to professionals. Even sparklers can reach 1,200 F and can cause third-degree burns. When handling fireworks, protective eyewear should be worn. Ensure you are far away from structures and bushes. And most importantly, never consume alcohol while working with fireworks.

Fireplaces and Pits

Use chimineys, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits outdoors only and at least 10 feet away from your home or anything that can burn.

Grills

All types of grills should be used outdoors only. Never gill indoors or in the garage. Indoor grilling is not only a fire hazard---but can cause fire monoxide poisoning as well. Keep the grill off the deck and away from railways, out of reach of children, and never near overhanging branches.

SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties specializes in fire and water damage restoration. We have the specific damage restoration training, personnel, and equipment and can quickly restore your home, so it looks "Like it never even happened." If you experience fire damage and are in need of immediate assistance call (330) 536-7477.

How to Prepare Your Youngstown Home Before Vacation

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

leaking water pipe We are considered a “large loss” SERVPRO, meaning we have the capacity to handle every job no matter how big or small it may be.

There is nothing worse than coming home from a relaxing vacation to water damage. Obviously when you are away, disasters can get out of control very quickly. That’s why SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties is here to give you some going away tips before you leave for your retreat. Let’s get busy!

Walk Through the Entire House

Looking over your Boardman house, in its entirety, is the best way to check for problems before you leave. Check the pipes underneath the sink, ensure the sump pump is running, and check your water heater for any cracks or leaks.

Turn off the Water Supply

Usually, a leaky supply line happens while you are away. Turning the main line off while you are on vacation eliminates the chance of a pipe burst causing major structural damage to your Boardman home.

Check the Gutters

We know you just cleaned those out, right?! If not, make sure to do it before you leave. If there is heavy rainfall while you are away this will ensure the gutters are free of debris, leaves, and sticks and can prevent a water disaster from affecting your attic.

Replace Plastic Supply Lines

Swapping out plastic lines for stainless steel ones could be one of the best last-minute decisions of your life. This inexpensive switch can reduce the chance of leaks therefore highly eliminating the chance of pipe break while you are away.

Even if you think you have covered every precaution in the world…accidents can still happen. And when they do, SERVPRO of Mahoning and North Columbiana Counties is Here to Help. We are the area’s number one water restoration company. We are considered a “large loss” SERVPRO, meaning we have the capacity to handle every job no matter how big or small it may be.

If you find yourself in the middle of water disaster, don’t hesitate to give us a call for immediate assistance at (330) 536-7477 or visit our Website for more information.