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Important things to know regarding water damage that goes unnoticed.

12/26/2023 (Permalink)

Water stains as a result of a slow roof leak. Water stains as a result of a slow roof leak.

Water damage that goes unnoticed can lead to significant issues in a property. SERVPRO®, being a company specializing in water cleanup and restoration, emphasizes several important things to know about unnoticed water damage. Here are some general considerations:

  1. Hidden Sources of Water Damage:

    • Water damage isn't always immediately visible. Leaks from pipes, roof issues, or slow leaks behind walls can go unnoticed for a long time.
  2. Mold Growth:

    • Unnoticed water damage creates an ideal environment for mold growth. Mold can start developing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. It poses health risks and can be challenging to remediate once it spreads.
  3. Structural Damage:

    • Prolonged exposure to water can compromise the structural integrity of a building. Wood can rot, metal can corrode, and drywall can disintegrate.
  4. Electrical Hazards:

    • Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Unnoticed water damage can lead to electrical issues, creating fire hazards and risking the safety of occupants.
  5. Health Risks:

    • Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. This can pose health risks to the occupants of the building.
  6. Increased Restoration Costs:

    • The longer water damage goes unnoticed, the more extensive the damage becomes, and the higher the restoration costs. Early detection and intervention can significantly reduce the overall expense.
  7. Insurance Considerations:

    • Delayed reporting of water damage may affect insurance claims. Timely documentation and reporting are crucial for a smooth claims process.
  8. Regular Inspections:

    • Regular inspections of the property, including areas prone to water damage (such as basements, attics, and around plumbing fixtures), can help identify issues early.
  9. Advanced Detection Technologies:

    • SERVPRO® may utilize advanced technologies such as moisture meters, infrared cameras, and other tools to detect water damage that may not be visible to the naked eye.
  10. Preventive Measures:

    • SERVPRO® may advise clients on preventive measures to minimize the risk of water damage, such as proper maintenance of plumbing systems, roof inspections, and addressing potential issues promptly.

It's important to note that specific recommendations may vary based on the nature of the property and the extent of services provided by SERVPRO®. For the most accurate and tailored information, individuals should consult directly with SERVPRO® professionals or refer to their official materials.

   

The Mold Remediation Process: DIY vs. Professional Services

10/23/2023 (Permalink)

Uncovering mold in a Saugus home SERVPRO® experts can offer comprehensive solutions and recommendations to prevent mold recurrence.

Discovering mold in your Saugus home can be a concerning situation. Once you've identified the issue, the next step is deciding how to address it. In this blog post, we'll explore the mold remediation process and weigh the pros and cons of DIY mold removal versus hiring professional services to help you make an informed decision.

The Mold Remediation Process:

Mold remediation involves a series of steps to identify, contain, and remove mold from affected areas. The process typically includes the following stages:

1. Assessment:

  • DIY: Homeowners can perform a visual inspection to identify the extent of the mold problem.
  • Professional Services: Experienced mold inspectors use advanced tools like moisture meters and air quality tests to assess the situation more accurately.

2. Containment:

  • DIY: Isolation of the affected area using plastic sheeting, fans, and negative air pressure can be attempted.
  • Professional Services: Experts have specialized equipment to establish effective containment, preventing the spread of mold spores during removal.

3. Mold Removal:

  • DIY: Homeowners can remove small, surface-level mold infestations using household cleaning products and protective gear.
  • Professional Services: Trained professionals have the expertise to handle large or toxic mold infestations, ensuring thorough removal.

4. Cleaning and Disinfection:

  • DIY: Homeowners can clean and disinfect affected areas using commercial products, but ensuring complete mold eradication is challenging.
  • Professional Services: Professionals use industrial-grade cleaning agents and techniques to ensure all mold is eliminated.

5. Prevention:

  • DIY: Homeowners can implement preventative measures, such as fixing leaks and improving ventilation, to discourage future mold growth.
  • Professional Services: Experts can offer comprehensive solutions and recommendations to prevent mold recurrence.

Pros and Cons:

DIY Mold Remediation:

Pros:

  • Cost-effective for small, manageable infestations.
  • Quick response for minor mold issues.
  • Empowering and educational experience.

Cons:

  • Limited to small, surface-level problems.
  • Risk of incomplete removal and regrowth.
  • Potential exposure to health risks without proper protective gear.

Professional Mold Remediation:

Pros:

  • Expertise in dealing with all types of mold infestations.
  • Comprehensive assessment and containment.
  • Assurance of complete removal and prevention.
  • Reduced health risks and exposure.

Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost, especially for larger infestations.

Conclusion:

The decision between DIY mold remediation and hiring professional services largely depends on the extent and severity of the mold issue. While tackling minor problems yourself can be cost-effective and empowering, it's essential to recognize the limitations and health risks associated with DIY methods. For larger or potentially hazardous mold infestations, the expertise, equipment, and comprehensive solutions offered by professional services often outweigh the initial cost, ensuring a safer, more effective mold remediation process. Ultimately, the choice should prioritize the health and well-being of your household.

 

Importance of Timely Mold Remediation

8/23/2023 (Permalink)

Extreme Mold in Melrose Mold that had been neglected in Melrose.

Timely mold remediation is crucial for several reasons, primarily centered around health, property preservation, and cost-effectiveness. Mold is a type of fungus that grows in damp and humid environments. It reproduces through spores that can become airborne and spread easily. When left unchecked, mold can pose significant risks to both your health and your property. Here's why timely mold remediation is important:

  1. Health Concerns: Mold can trigger allergies, respiratory issues, and other health problems, especially in individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or immune system disorders. Prolonged exposure to mold spores and mycotoxins (toxic compounds produced by certain molds) can lead to serious health complications. Removing mold promptly helps mitigate these health risks.

  2. Prevent Further Spread: Mold can spread rapidly throughout your property, both visibly and through hidden areas like wall cavities and ventilation systems. Timely remediation prevents its expansion to other parts of the building, reducing the scope of the problem and preventing a more extensive and costly remediation process later.

  3. Structural Damage: Mold can deteriorate and weaken the materials it grows on, such as wood, drywall, and insulation. Over time, this can compromise the structural integrity of your property, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs.

  4. Property Value: If left untreated, mold can significantly reduce the value of your property. When potential buyers or renters discover mold issues, they might either negotiate for a lower price or avoid the property altogether.

  5. Insurance Coverage: Insurance policies might not cover mold-related damages if they are a result of neglect or lack of timely action. Taking swift action to address mold issues can ensure that you are eligible for coverage should the need arise.

  6. Cost-Effectiveness: Addressing a mold problem in its early stages is generally more cost-effective than waiting until it has spread extensively. Small, localized mold infestations are easier and cheaper to remediate than larger, systemic ones.

  7. Mitigate Legal Issues: In rental properties or shared buildings, mold can lead to legal disputes between landlords and tenants or owners and homeowners' associations. Timely remediation can help prevent legal complications and disputes.

  8. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Mold releases spores and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can lead to poor indoor air quality. This can exacerbate allergies and respiratory problems for occupants. Timely mold removal helps maintain a healthier living environment.

  9. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your property is mold-free provides peace of mind for you and your occupants, whether they are family members, tenants, or employees.

To ensure effective mold remediation, it's recommended to hire professionals with experience in mold assessment and removal. They can properly assess the extent of the mold problem, identify the sources of moisture that are promoting mold growth, and employ appropriate remediation techniques to eliminate the mold and prevent its recurrence. Remember that prevention is also important; addressing moisture issues promptly can help prevent future mold growth.

SERVPRO helps local retailers through water damage.

6/22/2023 (Permalink)

Retailers rely on us for restoration needs. SERVPRO®'s expertise and experience in water damage restoration can be invaluable to retailers!

SERVPRO® provides water damage restoration services to a variety of commercial establishments, including retailers. When a retailer experiences a water damage disaster, SERVPRO® can swiftly respond to mitigate the damage and help the business get back on track. Here's how SERVPRO can assist retailers in such situations:

  1. Emergency Response: SERVPRO® understands the urgency of water damage situations and offers 24/7 emergency services. They respond promptly to minimize the impact of water damage on the retailer's operations.

  2. Water Extraction and Drying: SERVPRO®'s trained technicians utilize specialized equipment to extract water from the affected areas. They also employ industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry the premises, preventing further damage and mold growth.

  3. Salvage and Restoration: SERVPRO® assesses the damage and works to salvage as much inventory, fixtures, and equipment as possible. They clean and restore salvageable items and provide a detailed inventory of damaged items for insurance purposes.

  4. Structural Repairs: If the water damage has affected the retailer's building structure, SERVPRO® can coordinate necessary repairs. This includes addressing damaged walls, ceilings, flooring, and other structural components to restore the property to its pre-damage condition.

  5. Mold Remediation: If water damage is not promptly and adequately addressed, it can lead to mold growth. SERVPRO® is equipped to handle mold remediation, ensuring that any mold colonies are safely removed, and the affected areas are thoroughly cleaned and restored.

  6. Document Drying and Restoration: In cases where important documents, records, or inventory paperwork have been damaged, SERVPRO® offers document drying and restoration services. They use specialized techniques to salvage and restore damaged documents, reducing the potential loss of critical information.

  7. Coordination with Insurance: SERVPRO® works closely with insurance companies, providing detailed documentation and estimates to facilitate the claims process. They can also offer assistance in navigating the insurance claims process, making it easier for the retailer to handle the paperwork and reimbursement procedures.

SERVPRO®'s expertise and experience in water damage restoration can be invaluable to retailers facing such challenges. If a retailer experiences a water damage disaster, it is recommended to contact the nearest SERVPRO® franchise as soon as possible to initiate the restoration process and minimize the impact on the business.

Sewage Cleanup

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

Sewage Cleanup Sewage in a Saugus Basement

Sewage backups and overflows can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, as well as health hazards due to the presence of bacteria and viruses. SERVPRO of Saugus/West Lynn provides sewage cleanup services to restore properties affected by sewage backups and overflows.

Their sewage cleanup process typically includes:

  1. Inspection: Their technicians will inspect the affected area to assess the extent of the damage and determine the best approach for cleanup.

  2. Containment: They will isolate the affected area to prevent contamination from spreading to other areas of the property.

  3. Removal: They will remove any standing water and sewage, as well as any contaminated materials that cannot be salvaged.

  4. Cleaning: They will use specialized cleaning products and equipment to clean and sanitize all affected surfaces, including walls, floors, and personal belongings.

  5. Deodorizing: They will use odor removal techniques to eliminate any unpleasant smells that may have resulted from the sewage backup.

  6. Drying: They will use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry the affected area and prevent mold growth.

  7. Restoration: If necessary, they will repair or replace any damaged structural components or personal belongings to restore the property to its preloss condition.

Throughout the process, SERVPRO will communicate with the property owner and insurance adjuster to keep them informed of the progress and any necessary changes to the cleanup plan. The goal is to restore the property as quickly and efficiently as possible, while minimizing disruption to the property owner's life.

Flooded Basements in Saugus!

3/29/2023 (Permalink)

Restoration of a flooded Basement A flooded basement in Saugus

SERVPRO is a company that specializes in providing restoration and cleaning services for properties that have been affected by water damage, fire damage, mold, and other disasters. One of the common services offered by SERVPRO is flooded basement restoration.

When a basement is flooded, it can cause significant damage to the property and can create a hazardous environment if not addressed promptly and properly. SERVPRO's trained professionals use specialized equipment and techniques to extract the water, dry out the affected area, and restore the property to its pre-damage condition as quickly as possible.

The restoration process typically involves the following steps:

  1. Inspection and Assessment: SERVPRO technicians will assess the extent of the damage and determine the best course of action.

  2. Water Removal: Using pumps and specialized equipment, the water is extracted from the affected area.

  3. Drying: Powerful fans and dehumidifiers are used to dry out the area.

  4. Cleaning and Sanitizing: The affected area is cleaned, disinfected, and sanitized to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

  5. Restoration: SERVPRO technicians will restore the property to its pre-damage condition, which may involve repairing or replacing damaged flooring, walls, and other structural elements.

It's important to act quickly if your basement has been flooded to minimize the damage and prevent potential health hazards. SERVPRO's experienced professionals can help you get your property back to normal as quickly and safely as possible.

The Three Main Phases of Saugus Water Damage Restoration

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

Equipment in a water damaged room When faced with water damage, SERVPRO is prepared with restoration equipment and experienced technicians in Saugus.

Water Damage Restoration Requires Specific Actions

Few instances require the same level of urgency as an active water disaster like a burst pipe or leak. While the water can be shut off to the property to stop the flow, immediate action must be taken to protect the house, repair the damage, and dry the structure. Water restoration focuses on three key areas:

  • Mitigation
  • Drying
  • Cleanup/Repairs

The West Lynn water damage that homes and businesses can experience rapidly spreads and destroys sensitive building materials and contents. Not only can the moisture be a damaging scenario, but the possibility of secondary threats like mold should encourage fast action by experienced professionals. Our specialists work fast to provide needed mitigation services.

The Objectives of Water Damage Mitigation

Mitigation is the initial effort to reduce the severe impact that water disasters can often have on a property. Since many of these scenarios involve standing water and migrating moisture, it is important to get these emergency services started as soon as possible. Our rapid response team is equipped to help with:

  • Water Removal Services - Extractors from our inventory manage any standing water or pooling in the structure. These units can include pumps and vacuums.
  • Content Protection - Personal belongings are often in harm's way after water disasters. We can help in multiple ways, beginning with relocating these items to safer spots in the house. When damage exists, we have practical cleaning strategies on and off-site to help.
  • Inventory and Inspection - Post-water damage cleanup, recovery estimations, and restoration plans require knowledge of the structure's condition and impacted contents. Our production management can walk through the residence and document damage, loss, and needed corrective action.
  • Bulk Material Removal - The saturation of specific building materials can lead to a need for removing these impacted elements. The longer water exposure is a concern; the more sensitive construction materials can sag and warp under duress. Part of the mitigation process is removing these bulk materials through controlled demolition to prevent collapse and permit easier access to impacted structural cavities.
  • Needed Repairs - Repairs in this earliest stage include replacing portions of the plumbing system or installing new broken fixtures leaking water. Complete repairs and reconstruction efforts follow most of the restoration process.

The Focus of Effective Drying

Depending on the spread and severity of disasters, dozens of individual drying tools might be needed simultaneously. Between evaporation, ventilation, and absorption, we have many ways to manipulate the water content of a household to suit specific drying goals. We focus on three key areas:

  • Surface Drying - This is the focus of drying equipment like air movers to eliminate surface wetness by blasting the outermost layer with dry air.
  • Hidden Moisture Management - Trapped water and moisture that migrates to challenging areas like structural cavities require special equipment to resolve.
  • Environmental Moisture Removal - Dehumidification units manage environmental humidity by pulling moisture from the air.

Cleaning Up After Water Damage

Carpets can be damaged by water exposure, leaving behind mineral deposits and staining the fibers. To combat this damage that could be experienced, we keep cutting-edge carpet and surface cleaning products and equipment available during the restoration. Bonnet and hot water extraction approaches are particularly effective for lightly soiled carpets.

Because this SERVPRO team is a full-service contractor, we can handle the repairs and reconstruction often needed during water restoration. Replacing removed building materials, restoring the damaged plumbing, and other construction services are critical to making it "Like it never even happened."

West Lynn water damage is one of the most common callouts for our SERVPRO of Saugus, West Lynn roster. For this reason, we keep talented WRT-Certified technicians and cleaning specialists available 24/7 to mobilize fast after disasters. We are available to assist when you need it at (978) 744-0409.

The Challenges of West Lynn Fire Damage Restoration

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

soot damage on a ceiling being removed with a sponge You want a trusted team of experts with the equipment your West Lynn property needs after fire damage. Call SERVPRO right away.

Fire Damage Restoration Focuses on Several Areas

There is no mistaking the urgency of a fire loss situation impacting a home or business. As fire sweeps through the property, first responders get dispatched immediately to quell the blaze and protect what they can of your residence. Likewise, professionals like our SERVPRO team are ready to mobilize quickly as well to ensure that we can provide efficient solutions for:

  • Emergency Services
  • Cleanup
  • Structural Repairs
  • Odor Removal

When West Lynn fire damage occurs, professionals like our SERVPRO team are called upon for mitigation and emergency services. As full-service contractors, we can provide a wealth of initial efforts, including controlled demolition and debris removal.

A Trusted Name After Fire Damage

Becoming a preferred vendor for insurance work and the fire restoration solutions required us to be able to enter homes as it was safe to do so and begin vital mitigation efforts. We understand the needs of insurance adjusters to approve damage claims, so we work fast to inspect the structure and comprise detailed estimations.

Ready for Large Loss Demands

With many commercial facilities, businesses, and institutions in and around West Lynn, our professionals must be prepared for the additional requirements of these structures following fire damage. We have trailered equipment and hundreds of restoration tools to meet larger structures' demands without compromising the efficiency these businesses expect.

What Emergency Services Are Needed?

Emergency services are the initial steps our professionals take to secure a structure and prevent avoidable harm. The faster these actions occur, the more the residence can be protected from the migrating fire loss effects.

  • Water Removal - High volumes of water are often necessary to extinguish a fire, but it can result in pooling and standing water in the areas of your home most impacted by the fire. We utilize multiple extraction devices and drying tools to help eliminate this secondary threat.
  • Air Filtration - Smoke and soot particles in the air can create a volatile environment and continue to threaten exposed building materials and contents until air quality improves. We have HEPA filtration products that can reduce airborne particulates.
  • Debris Cleanup - Ash, smoke solids, and charred materials must all be cleaned up and discarded as soon as possible to reduce soot and smoke odor concentrations.

Surface Cleaning Solutions for Fire Damage

Soot and smoke residues comprise the most substantial restoration obstacles for experienced technicians of our SERVPRO team. Many variables can impact the cleaning techniques necessary, including the type of underlying material, smoke damage, and contact time. We work to establish the most efficient method of removing surface soot and preserving building materials and contents affected as much as possible. We can implement more abrasive measures if surface cleaning is ineffective, such as media blasting and agitation.

The Reconstruction Necessary After a Fire

After a structure fire, significant reconstruction and repair are often required. Not only will SERVPRO professionals need to complete controlled demolition early in the restoration process, but our full-service team has the experience and knowledge to complete multiple build-back needs for the property.

Lingering Odors Present a Problem

One of the final obstacles technicians must overcome following a fire is the removal of lingering malodors. Burning and combustion involving many different types of materials can leave a formidable smell in the affected areas of the house. Plastics and accelerants can create offensive odors beyond typical smoke produced by organics. Counteractants and cleanup can help reduce the severity of these conditions, but foggers, hydroxyl machines, and ozone generators complete this process.

Professionals must act fast when contending with West Lynn fire damage events. As leading post-disaster relief and recovery technicians, we can respond quickly to these emergencies to begin mitigation and restoration services. Call our SERVPRO of Saugus, West Lynn team today at (978) 744-0409.

Resolving West Lynn Mold Damage and the Underlying Causes

8/9/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO van parked next to a brick building Count on SERVPRO to have the right tools and equipment to complete mold damage remediation in your West Lynn home.

Mold Damage Remediation Should Be Prompt

While more significant natural disasters could impact your home, like a water or fire loss event, many property owners misunderstand the effect of mold. These microorganisms move fast through a household and use multiple surfaces and contents as hosts. Several areas of a property are susceptible to mold development, such as:

  • Attics
  • Basements
  • Crawlspaces
  • Laundry Rooms
  • Bathrooms
  • Kitchens

Knowing where West Lynn mold damage could be found is an essential first step in tracking the progress of active development in the house and working to combat its adverse effects. We are skilled AMRT-Certified technicians accredited through the IICRC and NORMI to provide direct restoration and recovery solutions after mold gets discovered on your property.

How Likely is Mold Damage in West Lynn?

Environmental factors can make mold a more common occurrence in Essex County residences than you might think. Structures often contend with moisture content exceeding the necessary threshold for mold development, from the marshlands near the coast to high humidity during the warmer seasons of the year. If you believe mold might be growing in your home or business, it is crucial to secure professional remediation services as soon as possible.

DIY Cleanup and Remediation

Many homeowners mistakenly accept wrong information found on the internet regarding the management and removal of mold. In most cases, the problem is beyond the outermost layer of affected contents, making chlorine-based products only partially effective in particular circumstances. Moreover, failure to remove the organisms entirely can lead to further structural deterioration and worsening environmental conditions.

Containment Limits Spore Activity

An early action to take when contending with active colonies moving in the building is to establish containment. Forming barriers eliminates spore circulation to new areas, allows for a staging zone to be erected, and prevents cross-contamination to undamaged residence portions. Systems get constructed of thick polyethylene sheeting and a framework that can get quickly erected when SERVPRO AMRT-Certified professionals identify the perimeter of the work area.

Remediation Strategies for Mold Damage

Removing mold colonies is an intricate process that must get conducted carefully. Failure to fully clear the organism can spread this same organism through connected and nearby organic hosts. We evaluate the impacted surfaces and determine the needed approach based on the penetration of the fungi, the affected material, and the anticipated time/cost of remediation. Options for mold removal and remediation include:

  • Surface cleaning
  • Sanding
  • Media blasting with sodium bicarbonate
  • Controlled demolition
  • Antimicrobial application

Lingering Effects of Mold Damage

While a couple of persistent concerns could exist after mold remediation nears completion, few have the widespread impact of harsh smells. Musty odors are a typical byproduct of mold development and must be removed to restore comfortable living conditions. We have counteractant tools like foggers to help, but hydroxyl machines and air scrubbers combine to complete this formidable task.

Full-Service Contractors for Recovery

Mold threats can often result in a need for tear-out and reconstruction. Controlled demolition is one of the final remediation measures when materials become heavily impacted, so SERVPRO must reinstall these same construction elements. As a full-service contractor, we have a general license for build-back services to replace missing structural components and rebuild to original or reimagined specifications.

With West Lynn mold damage more common than homeowners might think, it is essential to have a plan to remediate active growth and restore the damage harmful organisms can cause. As leading AMRT-Certified technicians in Essex County, SERVPRO of Saugus, West Lynn professionals are ready to help whenever you might be dealing with mold threats. Call now at (978) 744-0409.

Water Removal in West Lynn Requires SERVPRO’s Expertise

8/8/2022 (Permalink)

cleaning carpet after water damage, wand, tech Our SERVPRO technician has removed the water from this West Lynn house, and is now cleaning the carpet. "Like it never even happened."

How to Properly Perform Water Removal in West Lynn

When water damage occurs in a home, there’s more than what meets the eyes. Water may get into vents and ducts, leading to further issues like structural damage and mold infestation. The water removal process helps to prevent such problems.

Professional water removal in your West Lynn home is essential because it is impossible to reverse water damage only by wiping out residues, cleaning, and drying. The water restoration process has several stages and considers all the small, vital details, which may lead to further problems if they remain unnoticed.

SERVPRO has a team of dedicated experts who can clean, repair, and restore your house as efficiently and quickly as possible. With our team working on your residence with the help of advanced equipment, restoration is rapid. We break down our water restoration process into these stages:

  • Inspection
  • Removing the stagnant water 
  • Removing damaged items
  • Cleaning 
  • Drying 

Inspection

Assessing the damage is an essential step in water damage repair. Our technicians can carefully pre-inspect all aspects of the ruined areas. We can look for issues like falling ceilings, electrical hazards, and deteriorating subfloors.

Removing stagnant water

Our SERVPRO team can use water extraction equipment to remove the water from floors, carpets, and other surfaces. This makes the water restoration process more efficient and successful.

Removing ruined items

We can remove all the items that water ruined, including drywall, sheetrock, or insulation. Removing such building materials is vital for drying the home thoroughly. SERVPRO offers controlled demolition of ruined building materials.

Cleaning

We can clean salvageable personal items to restore them to their normal condition. We use disinfectants as part of the cleaning process.

Drying

The goal of drying a home is to reduce the surface humidity levels to prevent the further growth of bacteria or mold. Drying equipment can reduce humidity levels to 50-40 percent or less. Our SERVPRO technicians can place air movers on the floors to increase air movement and use dehumidifiers to minimize the amount of moisture in the air.

When your home has sustained water damage, locating and recognizing it can be daunting. Call SERVPRO of Saugus, West Lynn, for help at (978) 744-0409.