SERVPRO Provides Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services to Suffolk County

4/30/2024 (Permalink)

Spring storms vary in degree of severity and duration and can last for a couple of hours or for several days. SERVPRO of Medford wants Long Island residents to know that when the storm hits and causes property damage, our crews are always here to help. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment and practices to find and remove water in a quick and efficient manner. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process from start to finish ensuring your experience with us goes seamlessly. When the unexpected happens to you, we have experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly.

Inspecting your property for seasonal damage can help avoid storm damage and mounting repair costs

Springtime is here and it’s time to open the windows and get outdoors - use the sunshine and warmer weather to inspect for seasonal property damage. Winter can be hard on your property with frigid temperatures and snow and ice. The effects of winter are especially evident to the exterior of our homes and buildings, it’s important to get any damage repaired quickly before Spring has the chance to storm. 

Clean and Inspect the Exterior and Landscaping

While sprucing your yard, take the time to clear out overgrown bushes, dead plants, watering cans, garden tools and other items cluttering your landscape. Messy outdoor spaces and exterior structural systems like your roof and gutters can often lead to property damage, including slow water leaks or poor ventilation, cleaning up your surroundings will prevent accidents and increase the safety and security of your property.

• Examine the roof
  Winter storms can take a toll on your roof, so be sure to inspect it thoroughly once spring rolls around. Look for things like missing, buckled, or otherwise damaged shingles, roof damage can lead to water and mold damage. Call a licensed and insured roofing expert to perform repairs, if you experience water intrusion or see visible signs of mold give SERVPRO® a call for help.
• Check and clean gutters and downspout
  Gutters and downspouts divert rainwater away from your roof and foundation, which is especially important when seasonal showers begin. Make sure all gutters are secure and unimpeded by debris. If your gutters seem damaged from the winter weather, make sure to replace them quickly.
• Exterior walls
  A thorough inspection of the exterior walls will help to identify trouble spots. Paint is your house’s first defense, it works as an added layer of protection from the elements, helping to keep your home safe from weather damage, and insects.
• Check foundation and walkways
  Fix and fill cracks in your foundation, porch and walkways, fluctuating temperatures and water can cause your foundation, porch or walkways to crack during the winter months. Reduce the opportunity for water damage by filling these cracks as soon as possible to prevent structural damage.
• Check outdoor faucets and plumbing
  Now that spring is here, you’ll want to get started on gardening. If you turned outdoor faucets off and winterized pool plumbing to prevent frozen pipes in the winter, open them back up and check that they are all working properly.
• Trim tree and shrub overgrowth
  Give the plants and trees on your property a once over, make sure to trim them, especially if there is a danger that they could fall on your home or car.

Emergency Response Property Disaster Restoration Services

GROUND FLOOR AND BASEMENT FLOODING: Storm flooding and melting snow can cause water damage in your basement from faulty gutters, cracks in foundations and improper drainage. Water damage is one of the most common and worst side effects of water leakage or flooding in a basement. In addition to contributing to structural and foundation problems, basement water damage can destroy your personal belongings and interior decorative finishes and it also has the power to create the perfect environment for mold growth.

SERVPRO of Medford is committed to making the cleanup, restoration and rebuild process for our customers organized, efficient and successful, after a frustrating and confusing property disaster event. Whether your home or building sustained damages from a storm, flood, fire or water disaster, you’ll have trusted and compassionate professionals by your side. We will work with you to survey the extent of the property damage, develop a plan for cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction. Disaster restoration and repair for your Suffolk County commercial or residential property is best left to professionals. Our SERVPRO professionals are skilled with the complexities of removing water and the water extraction, drying, dehumidifying, disinfecting and removal equipment required to complete your home or commercial building cleanup and repair properly. Our expert team has the experience, certifications, and equipment to complete any size restoration and rebuild project quickly, correctly, and affordably.

Water extraction, mitigation, restoration and reconstruction makes a huge difference after any Suffolk County freezing storm water damage

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

Our team can respond quickly and help you assess your damage and find a restoration solution that you can trust

SERVPRO® professionals excel at the cleanup, restoration and rebuild of after frozen water or winter temperatures damage your Long Island  residential or commercial.

Winter temperatures can be brutal in the Northeast, whipping winds and extended periods of freezing are incredibly damaging to your property, as frozen water, snow and ice can all lead to significant property damage disasters. On average each year a quarter of a million homeowners will experience the destructive power of frozen water problems including, frozen pipe bursts, ice dams and other leaking water damage occurrences. 

DO ICE DAMS ALWAYS CAUSE DAMAGE? When icicles start decorating the eaves, you know conditions are right for ice dams to happen. Ice dams on the roof don’t always cause damage. If weather conditions improve, they eventually melt and allow water to run off the roof. However, an extended cold spell usually increases ice dam size and weight. The additional buildup can cause damaged eaves, gutter problems and leaky roofs. When snow on the roof melts, the runoff collects around eaves and freezes as it drips to the ground. The initial results are icicles along the roof edge. The process cycles through thawing and freezing and forms solid dams of ice. These areas eventually build up and prevent water from running off the roof.

During a melt cycle, water accumulates behind the ice dam. It backs up and pools under flashing and shingles, and that causes the roof to leak. Ice dams also block gutters from doing their job, and that can result in even more water backups on the roof.

Fast Response to Water Removal Minimizes Damages

Our crews are available 24/7 to aid our local Long Island neighbors with both commercial and residential flooding and water damage emergencies. A quick response and expert action to your water intrusion can significantly reduce the overall damage to your home or business. Our property damage restoration crew will tailor a specific plan using our advanced equipment capacities to quickly overcome any property damage situation. SERVPRO trucks and teams are available to deploy submersible pumps, water extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers, quickly controlling the spread of water and moisture damages.

A Professional Inspection can determine the many factors that specify the exact process for your property damage recovery: level of water, type of contamination, and amount of exposure all play a vital role in the balance between restore and replace.

Our SERVPRO staff is highly trained and experienced in the cleanup and restoration of your frozen water property damage from frigid Northeast temperatures. Our team can respond quickly and help you assess your damage and find a restoration solution that you can trust.

WINTER WATER PROPERTY DAMAGE

• ICE DAMS
  Ice dams occur after a snowfall and several days of freezing temperatures, common weather conditions in the Northeast during winter. Warm air inside your home leaks into the attic and warms the underside of the roof causing snow and ice to melt. The melted water refreezes on the cold overhang and can form icicles and an ice dam on the roof and gutters. This process can cause damage to the roof which can cause water to leak into the home causing water damage to the ceiling, walls, insulation and other areas.
• LEAKING BASEMENTS AND FOUNDATIONS
  Basement and ground floor apartment flooding are a common occurrence for many homeowners throughout Long Island, the impact of heavy snow, ice and rain can overflow sewer drains and pavement often leading to water leaks, flooding and other types of lower lever water damage. Ground level flooding can lead to significant structural damage, destroy furnishings and other belongings and commonly lead to elevated mold and humidity issues.
• FROZEN WATER PIPES
  When Northeast temperatures drop to at or below freezing, the water flowing in your plumbing has the potential to freeze. Water expands when it freezes, the expansion of the frozen water can cause a rupture, causing catastrophic flood damage. It’s important to note that the break often occurs between the frozen point and the faucet, as the ice blocks the pipe and the water pressure increases leading to stress on the pipe. Pipes that run through the exterior walls are particularly at risk, but those that run through low- or uninsulated attics and crawl spaces can also freeze.

Although these frozen water damage situations are very common, sometimes the damage could have largely been prevented by taking a few preventative steps ahead of time. These are a few tips you can take to try and avoid turning the coming frigid days and nights into inconvenient and expensive property disasters.

HELP PREVENT WINTER WEATHER & FREEZING WATER ISSUES WITH THESE TIPS

• Exposed pipes are the most susceptible to freezing, so insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic.
• Heat tape or thermostatically controlled heat cables can be used to wrap pipes and prevent ice dams.
• Seal air leaks in your attic, basement and exterior walls, look for air leaks around electrical wiring, vents, and pipes, and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out.
• To avoid ice dam concerns, add roof and soffit vents to regulate the air temperature close to the underside of the roof.
• Sump pumps and sub-floor drainage systems are typically used to avoid the continued damage associated with basements and other foundation issues.
• A trickle of hot and cold water might be all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing.
• Let warm water drip overnight, from a faucet on an outside wall.
• Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.

Suffolk County weather can be unpredictable even when winter temperatures aren’t extremely cold; property water damages happen to home and business owners often. When water begins spilling across the floor or filling the basement, it is usually from a failed water heater shut-off valve or a split line on a washing machine. Many factors contribute to the length and cost of your property damage cleanup and restoration project, including the amount and type of water involved, length of time before service and the total area impacted. Our qualified and experienced staff can help answer your disaster restoration questions and provide a step-by-step plan for a full recovery of your flooded commercial or residential property. Our crews explain the process of water extraction, drying and restoration. Our Long Island SERVPRO team has a unique rebuild option with our dedicated construction crew, to seamlessly move from restoration to reconstruction, helping you recover more quickly. Our specialized equipment and highly trained staff have the scope of services to handle your property restoration needs from start to finish. We understand you may not have all the answers, calling our team connects you to professionals that can provide the answers to your restoration concerns and tailor a solution to repair your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

A Reliable Team for Emergency Storm and Hurricane Damage Restoration

6/7/2023 (Permalink)

Emergency repairs are crucial to address any safety issues or potential further damage to your property.

June has arrived, SERVPRO® wants you to know it’s important to be prepared for severe storms and hurricanes that can wreak havoc on your commercial or residential property. Fortunately, SERVPRO is here to assist local communities in recovering after the storm, providing top-notch property restoration services to local Suffolk County property owners.

Our team is highly qualified and trained in Emergency Storm or Hurricane disaster restoration, damage mitigation, and construction. 

• We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster
• We provide 24-Hour Emergency Service
• We are a Trusted Leader in the Property Restoration Industry
• We are Locally Owned and Operated

Our experts will come, assess your damage, and take the proper steps to limit damage. We work hand in hand with your insurance company to restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

The Atlantic Hurricane Season spans from June 1st to November 30th, encompassing three seasons with the peak of hurricane activity typically occurring in September. The frequency and intensity of hurricanes can be influenced by various factors. Hurricanes bring powerful winds and heavy rain that can cause extensive damage to buildings. The wind exerts pressure on roofs, walls, and other components of the building envelope, while wind-borne debris poses a risk to windows and doors. Additionally, fallen trees and power lines can further damage structures. To safeguard your property from these powerful and unpredictable storms, here are some valuable tips to consider.

1. Develop an emergency plan: Create a detailed plan for your household that includes evacuation routes, designated meeting points, and important contact information. Ensure all family members are aware of the plan and practice it regularly.
2. Secure your property: Prior to hurricane season, inspect your property for any vulnerabilities. Reinforce windows and doors with shutters or plywood. Trim back trees and shrubs to minimize potential damage from falling branches. Secure loose outdoor items or move them indoors.
3. Back up important data: Safeguard important documents, photos, and files by backing them up to a secure location, either in the cloud or on an external hard drive. This will help protect your valuable information in case of damage or loss.
4. Reinforce the garage door: If you have a garage, reinforce the door with a bracing system designed to withstand high winds. This can help prevent structural damage and protect your vehicles.
5. Install a generator: Consider installing a generator to provide backup power in the event of an electricity outage. Ensure it is properly installed and maintained to avoid any safety hazards.
6. Consider flood insurance: Standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage. Evaluate your insurance coverage and consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy to protect your property.

During times of high-volume events like severe storms, our team is readily available to provide emergency assistance. We understand that such storms can have a negative impact on numerous individuals within the community. Rest assured, our team is dedicated to working with you, conducting necessary emergency repairs, and guiding you through the entire recovery process and timeline.

Emergency repairs are crucial to address any safety issues or potential further damage to your property. Our goal is to promptly mitigate risks and prevent additional harm. We understand the devastating effects that storms can have on property owners big and small, including the destructive forces of sustained winds and flooding that can damage both your property and belongings. When faced with serious storm and water damage in Suffolk County, there's only one team to call — SERVPRO of Medford. Our experienced professionals are equipped to handle the challenges of storm restoration, providing the highest quality of service to help you recover and restore your property.

It’s Hurricane season - SERVPRO is READY to Help after any size storm disaster

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Our storm damage mitigation team will work with you to make any emergency repairs needed and explain the rest of your recovery process.

Get ready for another active Atlantic hurricane season.

The official Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th. The Atlantic basin includes the entire Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea. The long-term average (taken over the last 70 years – between 1951 and 2019) of named storms is 11. The short-term average (taken over the last 15 years – between 1995 and 2019) is 14 named storms.

When a hurricane makes landfall, the force of hurricane strength winds can destroy buildings, topple trees, bring down power lines, and blow vehicles off roads. When flying debris, such as signs, roofing material, building siding, and small items left outside, is added to the mix, the potential for building damage is even greater. When a storm hits your Suffolk County home or business, you need help immediately, SERVPRO of Medford is here to help with property restoration and repairs. Our team of storm and water damage specialists get started promptly to maximize recovery and reverse storm damage. 

Hurricane winds and rain can bring a massive amount of damage to a community. Hurricane winds impact homes and other buildings in two different ways: 1) differential pressures act on the building envelope, which includes roofs and walls (and their associated components), and 2) wind-borne debris may strike a building, with windows and doors the most susceptible to impact. Additionally, downed trees and power lines, being blown down onto a building, is another way hurricanes can cause damage to structures. Rainwater damage to a building’s interior will normally result after damage to the building envelope has occurred.

Call local SERVPRO professionals to help recover your property with Emergency Storm or Hurricane damage restoration and repairs

Our team is available for emergency help, during high volume events many people in the community can be negatively impacted by a big storm, our team will work with you to make any emergency repairs needed and explain the rest of your recovery process and timeline. Emergency repairs are necessary to address any damage that has caused a safety issue or could potentially lead to further damage to the property if left untouched. The effects of a storm to a homeowner can oftentimes be devastating, sustained winds and flooding can damage your home and belongings. When storm and water damage get serious in Medford, Holbrook, or other local Brooklyn towns there is really only one team to call—SERVPRO of Medford! 

Our team is highly qualified and trained in disaster restoration, damage mitigation, and construction. 

• We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster
• We provide 24-Hour Emergency Service
• We are a Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• We are Locally Owned and Operated

Our experts will come in, assess your damage, and take the proper steps to limit damage. We work hand in hand with your insurance company to restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

Every Long Island water restoration situation is unique, and our team will treat them that way. We are local to the Suffolk County community to help during your water or storm property damage in these very stressful times we are Always Here to Help!

SERVPRO of Medford Responds to Flood or Storm Water Property Damage Immediately

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO of Medford Storm Property Restoration Team has the experience and resources to handle your weather-related water property damage.

It’s critical to take quick action following a flood or storm water intrusion to your local Long Island home or business.

If it’s a roof leak, exterior damage, a cracked foundation, or basement flooding, causing your water property damage, call our Disaster Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO of Medford to begin taking steps to stop the water damage from becoming an even bigger disaster. Our professionals first assess the severity of the situation and determine the full extent of the storm, flooding, or additional water damage. Restoring your home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the flooded or other water damaged areas; measuring the moisture content, humidity, and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. They provide a step-by-step solutions to restore and repair your local Long Island property and contents to help minimize additional damages, we provide services to Suffolk County.

OUR LONG ISLAND STORM & FLOOD WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

    •    Water Extraction
    •    Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
    •    Cleaning and Restoration of affected possessions
    •    Remediating mold and mildew
    •    Reconstruction and Repairs

Our crews are IICRC certified, with training in the most effective protocol and equipment to mitigate and restore all types of property water damages. Many factors can contribute to the cost, length and outcome of your property disaster including the severity of the water damage, the presence of debris or solids in the standing water, the availability of sufficient power and the location of the damaged areas.

THE 4 PRIMARY CLASSIFICATIONS OF WATER DAMAGE

Class 1 is the least amount of water, absorption and evaporation. It affects only part of a room or area, or larger areas containing materials that have absorbed minimal moisture.  Little or no wet carpet and/or cushion is present.

Class 2 involves a large amount of water, absorption, and evaporation. It affects at least an entire room of carpet and cushion (pad). Water has wicked up walls less than 24 inches.  There is moisture remaining in structural materials and substructure soil.

Class 3 involves the greatest amount of water, absorption, and evaporation. Water may have come from overhead.  Ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet, cushions, and subfloor in virtually all the entire area is saturated.

Class 4 relates to specialty drying situations. Wet materials with very low permeance/porosity (eg. hardwood, plaster, brick, concrete, light-weight concrete, and stone). Typically, there are deep pockets of saturation, which require very low specific humidity. These types of losses may require longer drying times and special methods.

Our SERVPRO of Medford Storm Property Restoration Team has the experience and resources to handle your weather related water property damage quickly and professionally. We know what comes next after your property suffers a disaster storm water damage and we are prepared 24-7 with Emergency help to repair your home or business when you need us! Call our Storm Damage Cleanup, Restoration and Repair team.

SERVPRO Provides Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services to Suffolk County

5/11/2022 (Permalink)

Spring storms vary in degree of severity and duration and can last for a couple of hours or for several days. SERVPRO of Medford wants Long Island residents to know that when the storm hits and causes property damage, our crews are always here to help. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment and practices to find and remove water in a quick and efficient manner. Our technicians will monitor and document the drying process from start to finish ensuring your experience with us goes seamlessly. When the unexpected happens to you, we have experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly.

Inspecting your property for seasonal damage can help avoid storm damage and mounting repair costs

Springtime is here and it’s time to open the windows and get outdoors - use the sunshine and warmer weather to inspect for seasonal property damage. Winter can be hard on your property with frigid temperatures and snow and ice. The effects of winter are especially evident to the exterior of our homes and buildings, it’s important to get any damage repaired quickly before Spring has the chance to storm. 

Clean and Inspect the Exterior and Landscaping

While sprucing your yard, take the time to clear out overgrown bushes, dead plants, watering cans, garden tools and other items cluttering your landscape. Messy outdoor spaces and exterior structural systems like your roof and gutters can often lead to property damage, including slow water leaks or poor ventilation, cleaning up your surroundings will prevent accidents and increase the safety and security of your property.

• Examine the roof
  Winter storms can take a toll on your roof, so be sure to inspect it thoroughly once spring rolls around. Look for things like missing, buckled, or otherwise damaged shingles, roof damage can lead to water and mold damage. Call a licensed and insured roofing expert to perform repairs, if you experience water intrusion or see visible signs of mold give SERVPRO a call for help.
• Check and clean gutters and downspout
  Gutters and downspouts divert rainwater away from your roof and foundation, which is especially important when seasonal showers begin. Make sure all gutters are secure and unimpeded by debris. If your gutters seem damaged from the winter weather, make sure to replace them quickly.
• Exterior walls
  A thorough inspection of the exterior walls will help to identify trouble spots. Paint is your house’s first defense, it works as an added layer of protection from the elements, helping to keep your home safe from weather damage, and insects.
• Check foundation and walkways
  Fix and fill cracks in your foundation, porch and walkways, fluctuating temperatures and water can cause your foundation, porch or walkways to crack during the winter months. Reduce the opportunity for water damage by filling these cracks as soon as possible to prevent structural damage.
• Check outdoor faucets and plumbing
  Now that spring is here, you’ll want to get started on gardening. If you turned outdoor faucets off and winterized pool plumbing to prevent frozen pipes in the winter, open them back up and check that they are all working properly.
• Trim tree and shrub overgrowth
  Give the plants and trees on your property a once over, make sure to trim them, especially if there is a danger that they could fall on your home or car.

Emergency Response Property Disaster Restoration Services

GROUND FLOOR AND BASEMENT FLOODING: Storm flooding and melting snow can cause water damage in your basement from faulty gutters, cracks in foundations and improper drainage. Water damage is one of the most common and worst side effects of water leakage or flooding in a basement. In addition to contributing to structural and foundation problems, basement water damage can destroy your personal belongings and interior decorative finishes and it also has the power to create the perfect environment for toxic mold growth.

SERVPRO of Medford is committed to making the cleanup, restoration and rebuild process for our customers organized, efficient and successful, after a frustrating and confusing property disaster event. Whether your home or building sustained damages from a storm, flood, fire or water disaster, you’ll have trusted and compassionate professionals by your side. We will work with you to survey the extent of the property damage, develop a plan for cleanup, restoration, and reconstruction. Disaster restoration and repair for your Suffolk County commercial or residential property is best left to professionals. Our SERVPRO professionals are skilled with the complexities of removing water and the water extraction, drying, dehumidifying, disinfecting and removal equipment required to complete your home or commercial building cleanup and repair properly. Our expert team has the experience, certifications, and equipment to complete any size restoration and rebuild project quickly, correctly, and affordably.

Spring is the season for volatile weather, SERVPRO is prepared to help restore your Long Island property after storm damage

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Spring in the Northeast is notorious for producing a broad range of extreme weather, including major snowstorms, severe thunderstorms, flooding, big temperature changes and high winds. Temperatures can swing back and forth between balmy and frigid. Sunny Long Island days may be followed by a week of stormy weather. That temperature contrast fuels a strong jet stream, and in turn, highly variable weather conditions.

Spring is the time of year when many things change—including the weather. Spring storms can be unpredictable, SERVPRO can't stop spring showers. Our team is always ready to provide restoration and repairs to your home or business should it suffer from Spring thunderstorms, severe winds, flooding, or other property damage disasters. There are a variety of potential property damages that you may experience. These include:

• Roof or structural damage to your walls from a fallen tree or high winds
• Broken windows from hailstorms or objects thrown by heavy wind
• Lightning strikes, which could lead to a fire
• Water damage caused by loose or damaged shingles, clogged gutters, or leaking roofs
• Flooding in your basement or home
• Animal infestations caused by critters looking for shelter during the storm

Our professionals first assess the severity of the situation and determine the full extent of the storm, flooding, or additional water damage to your Suffolk County property. Restoring your home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the flooded or other water damaged areas; measuring the moisture content, humidity, and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. It is important to note that storm property damage emergencies are rarely mild enough to not require some form of intervention and work by our experienced technicians. Some conditions that could encourage a prompt call to our SERVPRO team are:

Standing Water – Pooling water in a damaged area can be destructive to many of the materials. Wood and sheetrock exposed to standing water can quickly absorb this water and allow for a much more rapid deterioration of the construction element.

Migrating Water – You might not always know how widespread water loss effects can be, but if water has moved beyond the surface of materials, you need the sophisticated tools of our team to identify moisture pockets and dampness beyond what the eye can see.

Hidden Damages – In the same way that water can migrate throughout your apartment, damages can exist and persist out of sight without discovery tools and positive pressure drying systems getting used.

When water damage occurs in your home or business, knowing what to do will save precious time and ultimately minimize losses to your property and building contents. SERVPRO of Medford professionals have extensive experience repairing and restoring catastrophic water damage to countless locals in our community. Our technicians understand that unattended water damage continues to cause harm to your property over time. Making it necessary to make quick, informed decisions, to perform quality restoration services today, that save you from further damaging problems, tomorrow.

SERVPRO responds with fast emergency mitigation service after storm property damage disasters

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Continual increases in storm intensity and tidal flooding are making flood and storm water damage a regular concern for many Long Island property owners. Flooding can have a devastating impact on your coastal building or residence, it can be difficult to predict the full extent of water and storm related damages. Additionally, saltwater can be extremely dangerous and destructive to building materials and has added safety concerns for cleanup and restoration providers. Extracting the water is just the first step that SERVPRO of Medford professionals take to thoroughly dry and restore water and storm damaged areas inside and outside of your property. Floodwater is dangerous, it’s advised to contact a reliable property damage restoration company such as SERVPRO that specializes in natural disaster and flood cleanup and remediation.

It can be difficult for the average Suffolk County property owner or management team to determine if the contaminated areas and contents of your property have been properly remediated, to avoid continued damage from salt corrosion and mold growth. Our restoration technicians are IICRC trained and certified with countless hours of experience responding to local coastal property damage cleanups and repairs. Starting the restoration process begins with a visit from a highly trained staff member to assess the full extent of your flooding and water damage intrusion and present a comprehensive plan for a complete property damage restoration and construction solution. While assessing your property damage our managers will help determine what parts of your loss our team can clean, sanitize, and restore. Unfortunately, some items are unsafe for restoration and some controlled demolition and replacement may be necessary. Our restoration teams work closely with our construction crews and management to provide a seamless transition from destruction to reconstruction. Throughout the process our philosophy is to restore over replacing materials and contents whenever possible, helping to lower overall cost and time needed for property disaster recovery.

Our professionals use specialized tools and training to remove flood water from your property during storm damage disaster restoration.

As simple as water removal might appear, there are more considerations for removing water from your home or business than you might think. Our SERVPRO team advises that professionals always handle dirty water cleanups, we also know that many property owners want to minimize the mitigation work to save time and money. Here is a shortlist of the suggested things that every water damage remediation needs to safely remove flooding and damage from their property.

While there might be other gear and machines that could make this list, these are absolute must-haves for proper flood removal: 

Capable Extraction Equipment – Extraction is going to be one of the most considerable obstacles that your home faces, especially if you return to several inches of standing water. While a wet/dry vacuum can eventually overcome this considerable volume, it is better to rent more powerful extraction tools our SERVPRO team uses like trash pumps from home improvement locations, directing your discharge hose into a nearby drain. 

The Right Drying Tools – Much like acquiring the right tools for proper extraction, you also need to grab two vital pieces of equipment for drying efforts as well. You cannot sop up floodwater and allow it to dry naturally – you must take direct action. Air movers and dehumidifiers help to begin removing the moisture and saturation from exposed materials and the environment right away. 

Personal Protective Equipment – Keeping yourself safe is paramount during all these restoration and cleaning efforts. The flooding comes with substantial risks, among the most threatening being potential contamination of the water itself. Keep yourself covered and safe avoid getting in the water, and work to reduce the levels of damage quickly. 

Cleaning Supplies – Cleaning up after a flood is vital to protect your property and its occupants. The risk of contamination and bacteria is high in natural flooding, so the use of effective disinfection and cleaning agents can address these concerns.

When flooding or storm damage affects your home or business, SERVPRO responds quickly to storm and water emergencies, we are dedicated to respond Faster to Any Size Disaster to make sure that all our customers receive the highest quality and cost-effective damage mitigation and restoration service possible. Our restoration specialists have the training, and the tools get your property back to pre-damage condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Fall brings changing leaves, Halloween, and property damage prevention with seasonal maintenance tips

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Medford is the right choice for all your property damage restoration concerns during fall in the Suffolk County area.

Decorating your Long Island home for fall is fun, but have you prepared your property for seasonal damages? 

Your home is your biggest investment, maintaining it is a must. Fall is the ideal season to check for inexpensive maintenance issues, such as areas that need caulking, gutters that need debris removed or vegetation that needs trimming, to prevent future damage. Seasonal inspections and a little preventative maintenance, can help keep your property protected from seasonal elements like rain, snow and cold weather. 

Yard cleanup and minor fixes are a staple of any fall property maintenance routine; Raking leaves, weatherproofing doors and windows, carving pumpkins, and preparing your property for storms and trick-or-treaters.

Keep the chill outside

Check around the windows and doors for any gaps in the insulation or caulking, your home can lose a lot of warmth in the winter months if not properly sealed. Remember to change your HVAC system filters and have your unit inspected for debris or mold. At entry ways have a non-skid mat or rug to protect floors and prevent falls. Inspect your roof and siding for gaps or damage from storms, make any necessary repairs.

Maintain the gutter system

Clogged rain gutters are a problem for your property anytime of the year. During winter clogged gutters can cause ice dams, which can lead to a big repair. After the leaves have fallen, make sure to clean your gutters removing any leaves, twigs or other debris to make sure that water can move away from your roof and foundation unobstructed. Make sure to inspect and repair  any broken or sagging areas, tighten hangers and brackets as needed to maintain a functional system. 

Protect the plumbing

Pipes located in attics, crawl spaces, basements, and near outer walls can be susceptible to freezing in extreme temperatures, avoiding a costly pipe break or other water related disaster. Wrap exposed pipes in your attic, basement, or crawl spaces, with extra insulation around them to prevent them from freezing and causing damage. Don’t forget your water heater, add additional insulation if it’s located in an exposed or cold location.

Prepping the yard

Even with the cold weather conditions, your yard still needs to be maintained. Make sure tree and shrub branches are well away from the house and windows. Icy conditions can cause branches to break and damage your home. Autumn is the time for falling leaves, so make sure to clean out the gutters, to avoid possible ice dams and other costly water damage, and get them off the lawn, clean the flower beds and prepare them for next year with fertilizer.

It is an excellent time to plan ahead for Halloween visitors to your property this year, 

HALLOWEEN PROPERTY SAFETY TIPS FOR TRICK-OR-TREATERS

• Ensure that your front yard, walkway and entry way are well-lit so that those unfamiliar with your home can safely navigate. If using a fog machine, be careful that the fog does not make it difficult to see tripping hazards.
  
  
• Look for any trip hazards on your property that you can fix or remove: electrical cords and hoses can be wrapped up or moved; holes in your yard are roped off or filled in; CAUTION TAPE IS A TIMELY ADDITION and helps to warn of any safety hazards that can't be fixed in time for Halloween.
  
  
• Use battery-powered votive candles or flashlights in your jack-o-lanterns, rather than real candles, to avoid a potential fire hazard.
  
  
• Make sure all railings, porches, and physical structures of your home are secure and in good condition before visitors access those areas.
  
  

This Halloween, may your treats be many and your tricks be few, our team hopes you have a safe and happy Halloween!

WHEN DISASTER STRIKES SERVPRO IS HERE TO HELP!

When planning and setting up your Halloween decorations, it is a good idea to consider any potential risks involved. Taking steps to prepare your property and to protect any visitors can help spare you from a truly frightening night. SERVPRO of Medford is the right choice for all your property damage restoration concerns in the Suffolk County area, we have decades of hands-on cleanup, restoration and repair experience and our dedication to helping local homes and businesses disrupted by disasters is second to none. We have worked hard over the years building a reliable team of IICRC certified technicians and an arsenal of high-tech commercial grade equipment ready to assist with water, fire, mold, or storm disaster restoration services.

SERVPRO of Medford responds with quick recovery services to Suffolk County flood or storm property damage

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call our Long Island SERVPRO Storm Damage Cleanup, Restoration and Repair team.

Severe thunderstorms and flooding can lead to severe damage to your property, water intrusion is one of the main contributors to building damage. SERVPRO responds quickly to storm and water emergencies, we are dedicated to respond Faster to Any Size Disaster to make sure that all our customers receive the highest quality and cost-effective damage mitigation and restoration service possible. Our restoration specialists have the training and the tools get your property back to pre-damage condition, “Like it never even happened.”

HOW SPRING STORMS CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGE
• Coastal flooding due to the storm surge.
• Widespread wind damage.
• Widespread inland small stream and river flooding due to heavy rains.

Whatever the cause of your water property damage, our Disaster Restoration Specialists at SERVPRO of Medford will begin taking steps to stop the water damage from becoming an even bigger disaster. Our professionals first assess the severity of the situation and determine the full extent of the storm, flooding, or additional water damage. Restoring your home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the flooding or other water damaged areas of your Long Island property; measuring the moisture content, humidity, and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. They provide a step-by-step solution to restore and repair your local Suffolk County neighborhood property and contents to help minimize additional damages.

The SERVPRO of Medford team has decades of experience and training to overcome the unique challenges that can come with commercial property disasters including keeping your business running while cleaning and restoration is being performed. Our IICRC certified restoration specialists work quickly and efficiently to minimize or eliminate downtime with fast mitigation, content management and professional containment services for a fast recovery.

SERVPRO Provides Emergency Mitigation and Restoration Services

• Mitigation efforts are meant to prevent further damage and loss from occurring due to the existing threat, thus increasing the overall amount of work that needs to be done during the restoration itself.
• Restoration is performed on items that could not be saved by mitigation efforts, and items that were damaged before the restoration company arrived. This step is often a longer process and may involve the complete replacement of floors, roofs, walls, and other portions of your business that have been too damaged to save.
• Both are necessary to get your home or business back in order after a flood, or other disaster event, and should be performed by a professional disaster restoration company.

What Should I Do When I Notice a Water Loss?  

Your Water Damage event might not be entirely avoidable, so you need to know what to do when you notice that a problem has occurred and continues to threaten the building. This immediate action can help better to protect some of the building's potentially compromised areas and can reduce irreparable damage to essential contents and equipment. Some of the initial steps that you can take in the earliest stages of water loss include: 

• Move Important Documentation – One of the most critical steps that your staff can take when water loss first begins is to gather sensitive documentation and records and move them to a safe location. Migrating water can be a destructive force for these hard copies. 
• Notify Our Restoration Professionals – Getting restoration professionals like our SERVPRO team moving on your disaster is also an essential initial step to take. We have staffed emergency lines running 24/7, so you can talk to a real person about the situation and pass helpful information along to our mobilizing technicians.  
• Stay Out of the Damaged Space – Once water losses have spread into the main areas of the building, it is wise to keep yourself and your staff out of these areas altogether. Not only does excessive foot traffic make restoration more challenging, but with worsening water damage, these individuals could face potential health hazards like shock or slips.  

Our SERVPRO Storm Damage Property Restoration Team has the experience and resources to handle your weather-related water property damage quickly and professionally. We know what comes next after your property suffers a disaster storm water damage and we are prepared 24-7 with Emergency help to repair your home or business when you need us!

Quick and Effective Spring and Summer Storm Property Restoration Services for Long Island Homes or Businesses

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Many Long Island properties have experienced flooding and other property water damage from the severe weather in our area, we are here to help.

Spring and summer bring some considerable hazards and potential damage to your local Brookhaven property, including severe storms that bring coastal flooding, torrential rains, strong winds and lightning. Other elements that can cause property damage during the spring and summer are high-humidity or brush fire concerns. Your home or business could face any number of potential Spring and Summer property damage events, including mold damage, fire damage, sewage backup damage, or an appliance or plumbing water leak.

When you find yourself in need of professional fire or water disaster restoration services or emergency flood cleanup and property repairs for your commercial or residential property, our SERVPRO restoration specialists are here to assist. Spring and summer on Long Island has a ton of exciting things to do, our area offers great beaches and parks to explore, and additionally there are great events and community functions happening throughout the seasons. It’s important to remember safety while enjoying all that spring and summer have to offer. Keeping your family, friends and employees safe during these months is important to us, as is taking steps to avoid property damage to your home or business. Follow us for great tips on how to protect your property and what to do in the aftermath of a property disaster. Our crews are available 24-hours a day, always here to help with property repairs and recovery services.

Many Suffolk County buildings or businesses have experienced flooding and other property water damage from the severe weather in our area, do you need restoration and cleanup help?

OUR LONG ISLAND STORM & WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

• Roof Tarping and Board Up Services
• Category 1, 2 and 3 Water Extraction & Cleanup
• Drying of Damaged Areas including; walls, carpets and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoration of Affected Possessions
• Remediating Mold and Mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs

SAFETY TIPS BEFORE A STORM ARRIVES:

Stock up: Gather and check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed. The American Red Cross suggests you pick up at least three days' worth of water and non-perishable food, a flashlight and extra batteries for it, at least seven days’ worth of prescription medication, a cell phone with a charger, and that you have extra cash and spare clothes at the ready. Have an emergency kit with these items you probably already have in your home: flashlight(s), battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic (including cell phone), non-perishable foods (canned goods and dry foods), lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit (with a disinfectant), fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, important personal items (eyeglasses, prescriptions, etc.), and paper documents such as birth certificates, social security cards, and other significant legal papers.

Stay Indoors: Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Find a safe area in the interior or your property on the lower level or basement. If flooding threatens your home, turn off the electricity at the main breaker. If your property loses power, turn off major appliances such as the AC unit and water heater to reduce damage.

Property Concerns: Inspect your roof and foundation for damage and make necessary repairs. Exterior doors should have 3 hinges and a deadbolt lock that is an inch-long minimum. Cut dead or weak limbs before a storm hits. Remove any limbs hanging over your home that could cause substantial damage if they fall. Likewise, take the time to have trees that could fall on the home removed. Clean rain gutters ensure runoff has a place to go; water that pools and gathers can cause damage especially if a downpour is ongoing.

Our SERVPRO of Medford team has been helping our local communities for nearly 30 years, we are prepared with expert training and quality equipment to mitigate and restore your commercial or residential property. Our technicians are available 24-7 with our Emergency Service Team to help cleanup and repair your property damage from water, sewage, smoke or fire. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster because we know what an impact quick action has during a property disaster recovery.

4/14/2020 (Permalink)

When the changes in weather cause storm property damage our crews are always here to help. With fast and effective action to minimize damages.

A quick response and cleanup is key to a successful storm damage restoration

When Spring brings rain and wind to local Long Island communities causing fallen trees, damages to roofs and flooding to basements, our local SERVPRO team of property restoration specialists is ready to help. We have years of experience handling disaster cleanup and mitigation, we know how important it is to be prepared, our SERVPRO teams are ready and always prepared to handle any size property disaster. Contacting SERVPRO of Medford for immediate service after you experience a flood or water damage can be the difference between a quick cleanup and mitigation or more costly and intrusive restoration, construction and mold remediation services. Our Emergency Service Team technicians are available 24-7 with to help cleanup and repair your storm and flood property damage. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”

It’s critical to take quick action and call our SERVPRO of Medford team to begin taking steps to stop the damage from becoming an even bigger disaster. Our professionals first assess the severity of the situation and determine the full extent of the storm, flooding or additional water damage. Restoring your home or business quickly, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC professionals. Our team closely inspects the damaged areas; measuring the moisture content, humidity and temperature to assess the full extent of the damage. They provide a step-by-step solution to restore and repair your property and contents to help minimize additional damages.

OUR LONG ISLAND STORM & WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

• Water Extraction
• Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoration of affected possessions
• Remediating mold and mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs

Our SERVPRO of Medford Storm Team has the experience and resources to handle your storm property damage quickly and professionally. We know what comes next after the storm and we are prepared 24-7 with Emergency help when you need us! Call our cleanup, restoration and repair teams today!

Effective storm and flood water removal across Long Island

4/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water intrusion is one of the main contributors to building damage, SERVPRO is here to help with storm damage restoration.

Severe thunderstorms and flooding can lead to severe damage to your property, water intrusion is one of the main contributors to building damage. SERVPRO of Medford responds quickly to storm and water emergencies, we are dedicated to respond Faster to Any Size Disaster to make sure that all of our customers receive the most high quality and cost-effective damage mitigation and restoration service possible. Our restoration specialists have the training and the tools get your property back to pre-damage condition, “Like it never even happened.”

HOW SPRING STORMS CAUSE PROPERTY DAMAGE
• Coastal flooding due to the storm surge.
• Widespread wind damage.
• Widespread inland small stream and river flooding due to heavy rains.


Structural Damage
Without immediate flood water removal, Long Island properties can see significant structural damage occur to the foundations and building materials of their home. Water naturally degrades most construction materials with long-term exposure, but in the colder months of the year, a much stronger threat may damage your home. As temperatures drop overnight and water starts to freeze, any moisture soaked into the microscopic cracks and crevices of your home can begin to expand, potentially causing significant permanent damage.

Mold Growth
Mold can start to proliferate after a flood or other water damage intrusion. Removing flood waters and any excess moisture from your property quickly cuts off any potential infestations before it can even begin to grow and spread. SERVPRO technicians are also trained to identify and take care of fungal growth early in a colony's life cycle, thereby preventing additional damages.

Spreading Moisture
The longer flood water remains inside your building without professional removal, the more likely it is that moisture spreads to nearby rooms and areas. We can help to combat these effects by implementing rapid and thorough drying processes and monitoring nearby areas with digital moisture detection tools that help us determine when a problem may be likely to form.


Call in the Professionals?
Every storm and water restoration situation is unique and we treat them that way, Our team is here for you in these very stressful times and we are Always Here to Help! SERVPRO of Medford is highly qualified and trained in water restoration, our experts will come in, assess your damage, take the proper remediation steps to limit damage. We work hand in hand with your insurance company to restore your home to what it was before. "Like it never even happened."

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster?
We provide 24-Hour Emergency Service?
We are a Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry?
We are Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO Professional Restoration Solutions for All Types of Flood Damage for Suffolk County Homes and Businesses

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

It’s critical to take fast action to contact a local SERVPRO professional in your area, following a flood or storm water intrusion.

Many Long Island properties are near the ocean and other natural seawater sources, saltwater flooding and the resulting damage can be a common occurrence. Similarly, to flood damage from ground water and other category 3 losses, ocean water can cause severe property water damage and can create unique restoration concerns and complications for local home and business owners.

Flooding can have a devastating impact on your coastal home or business, it can be difficult to predict the full extent of water and storm related damages. Additionally, saltwater can be extremely dangerous and destructive to building materials and has added safety concerns for cleanup and restoration providers. Extracting the water is just the first step that SERVPRO professionals take to thoroughly dry and restore water and storm damaged areas inside and outside of your property. Floodwater is dangerous, it’s advised to contact a reliable property damage restoration company such as SERVPRO that specializes in natural disaster and flood cleanup and remediation.

It can be difficult for the average home or business owner to determine if the contaminated areas and contents of your property have been properly remediated, to avoid continued damage from salt corrosion and mold growth. Our technicians are IICRC trained and certified with countless hours of experience responding to local coastal property damage cleanups and repairs. Starting the restoration process begins with a visit from a highly-trained staff member to assess the full extent of your flooding or water damage intrusion and present a comprehensive plan for a complete property damage restoration and construction solution. While assessing your property damage our managers will help determine what parts of your loss our team can clean, sanitize and restore. Unfortunately, some items are unsafe for restoration and some controlled demolition and replacement maybe necessary. Our restoration teams work closely with our construction crews and management to provide a seamless transition from destruction to reconstruction. Throughout the process our philosophy is to restore over replacing materials and contents whenever possible, helping to lower overall cost and time needed for property disaster recovery.

Coastal Homes and Commercial Properties experience a much higher risk for property damage from salt-water, sand and other beach and waterfront related concerns.

COASTAL WEATHER AND SEAWATER CORROSION

Access to beautiful beaches and oceanfront views can be one of the many advantages to living and owning coastal property on Long Island. However, considering how the environment, and surrounding landscape, could adversely affect your commercial or residential property could quickly turn your dream property into a potential nightmare. Waterfront properties are less sheltered than those further inland, so rain and driving winds off the ocean will do more damage than you might expect, battering homes and creating a need for frequent maintenance. Damage caused by sand and salt is unavoidable, blowing sand and salty sea air are likely to cause some cosmetic and structural damage including; rusting metalwork, chipping and scratching to exterior surfaces, and possible damage to mechanical elements such as window latches. Long Island is no stranger to bad weather including hurricane force winds, storm and tidal surges, high waves and rising water levels can mean more coastal flooding leading to an increased risk for both indoor and outdoor storm, flood and water property damage.

Why Salt Water Flooding Does More Damage

Salt Breaks Down Building Materials

Similarly, to all other types of water intrusion and flood damage, salt water flooding can quickly penetrate a variety of building materials causing significant damage to structural components and property contents. Unlike some other water sources, salt water is more dangerous and causes more severe property damage because it is highly corrosive. The combination of water and higher levels of salt can weaken or even dissolve many types of building materials; including concrete, wood, plaster and drywall. Delignification is when saltwater penetrates wood forming fuzzy salt crystals on the surface and slowly pulls out lignin causing damage to the wood on a cellular level. If a structure is repeatedly exposed to saltwater flooding or proper decontamination (using fresh water to neutralize the excess salt) doesn’t occur, the longer the salt-water remains in contact with affected materials, this process will continue to weaken the internal structure developing serious structural problems that could lead to collapse.

Salt Water Damage Can Quickly Lead to Mold

Like any flood damage, if the moisture is not properly mitigated it can lead to mold growth in under 24 hours. Did you know salt-water accelerates the development of mold following a flood disaster? Mold needs moisture to grow, but flooding can penetrate hidden corners of a structure that can be very hard to dry. SERVPRO professionals use advanced technology including moisture detection equipment and thermal imaging cameras to help identify hidden moisture concerns during the structural drying and disinfecting process. Air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers are strategically positioned to speed up the drying process. Transferring moisture out of damaged materials into the air, to be captured through evaporation and absorption and removed permanently. EPA-registered disinfectants applied throughout the affected areas reduce the potential for fungal growth and kill lingering bacteria or viruses.

SERVPRO Responds to Flood or Storm Water Property Damage Immediately

It’s critical to take fast action to contact a local SERVPRO professional in your area, following a flood or storm water intrusion. Be assured that our managers and crews take every necessary step to mitigate your water damage from becoming an even bigger disaster. Seawater can cause significantly more damage due to the additional salt content involved. Our SERVPRO of Medford team will start the flood and water damage recovery process with an inspection. Our Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRTs) are trained to classify what kind of water they will be working with on the job site and adjust their methods accordingly. While extracting water is part of every water damage job, saltwater intrusion my also require additional steps to neutralize the salt reaction from further damaging building materials and surfaces.

OUR STORM & FLOOD WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

Restoring your home or business quickly after a storm damage or salt-water contaminated water loss, takes specialized equipment and highly skilled IICRC certified professionals

• Temporary Shoring, board-up and roof tarping
• Water Extraction
• Neutralizing of affected areas, including sanitizing and controlled demolition
• Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoring of affected possessions
• Remediating mold and mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs

Is Seawater from Storm Flooding Contaminated?

Yes!  The water from oceans, lakes, rivers or streams is considered Category 3 Water.

Category 3 Water: is known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water or standing water.

Ready to Respond with Disaster Flood and Storm Property Damage Restoration Services on coastal Long Island everyday

Salt-water property damage from flooding or storms is a major concern for many property owners and managers on the East Coast and throughout the Northeast throughout the year. Whether your property experiences an above average tidal flood, a storm surge, ground water flooding or foundation seepage after a severe storm. Our SERVPRO staff is available to help with your property restoration concerns. When SERVPRO’s signature green service vehicles show up they are stocked with a full array of advanced water damage restoration equipment and IICRC certified technicians who can respond quickly to your concerns and get you started on the road to restoration and recovery, “Like it never even happened.”

Quick and Effective Spring and Summer Storm Home or Business Restoration Services

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

Our priority is providing quick and effective storm cleanup services to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”

Our SERVPRO team has the answers to your property storm damage cleanup and repair concerns

Spring and Summer bring some considerable hazards and potential damage to your local Long Island property, including severe storms that bring coastal flooding, torrential rains, strong winds and lightening. Other elements that can cause property damage during the spring and summer are high-humidity or summer fire concerns. Your home or business could face any number of potential Spring and Summer property damage events, including mold damage, fire damage, sewage backup damage or plumbing leaks and appliance water damage. When you find yourself in need of professional fire or water disaster restoration services or emergency flood cleanup and property repairs, our SERVPRO restoration specialists are here to assist.

Spring and Summer on Long Island brings a ton of exciting things to do, our area offers great beaches and parks to explore, additionally there are great events and community functions happening throughout the seasons. It’s important to remember safety while enjoying all that spring and summer have to offer. June is National Safety Month – keeping your family, friends and employees safe during these months is important to us, as is taking steps to avoid property damage to your home or business. Follow us for great tips on how to protect your property and what to do in the aftermath of a property disaster. Our crews are available 24-hours a day, always here to help with property repairs and recovery services. 

Many Long Island homes or businesses have experienced flooding and other property water damage from the severe weather in our area, do you need restoration and cleanup help?

OUR LONG ISLAND STORM & WATER MITIGATION SERVICES INCLUDE

• Roof tarping and Board Up Services
• Category 1, 2 and 3 Water Extraction & Cleanup
• Drying of affected areas, including walls, carpets and furniture
• Cleaning and Restoration of affected possessions
• Remediating mold and mildew
• Reconstruction and Repairs

Our SERVPRO of Medford team has been helping our local communities for nearly 30 years, we are prepared with expert training and quality equipment to mitigate and restore your commercial or residential property. Our technicians are available 24-7 with our Emergency Service Team to help cleanup and repair your property damage from water, sewage, smoke or fire. Our priority is providing quick and effective service and solutions to restore your property and belongings, “Like it never even happened.”

Storm Flood Damage and Coastal Flooding Damage Concerns

Flooding presents a serious risk to your commercial or residential property. Northeast Thunderstorms and Hurricanes can bring a ton of moisture and tidal surges causing above average amounts of water to cover the local and surrounding areas. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, floods kill more people every year than lightening, hurricanes and tornadoes combined.

When it comes to your home or business flooding can lead to dangerous contamination and structural damage including damage to the drywall, contents and support structure. After only 24 hours your property is in jeopardy of additional damages including mold growth and other harmful bacteria. Quick and Effective cleanup and restoration services from a professional team is vital to avoiding even further damage.

Structural Damage: Severe storms can bring major flood risks to most Long Island properties causing significant structural damage to building materials, contents, foundations and basements. Our immediate flood water removal services are essential to avoiding additional costly damages, our SERVPRO specialists can also provide temporary structural support, tarp and board up services to help stabilize and secure the property.

Mold Growth: following a flood or water damage to your home or business, mold has the potential to start growing right away. SERVPRO technicians are trained and experienced to handle the mold remediation process and avoid the spread of mold colonies throughout your property.

Spreading Moisture: Our rapid drying techniques reduce the risk of continued moisture exposure, preventing further water damage to your home or business. Our technicians monitor the spread of moisture to nearby areas and can address any hidden water damage early helping avoid additional costly secondary damage.

Types of Contaminated Water and Categories of Water Damage

One of the first things to do when faced with water damage is determine what kind of contamination you’re dealing with. According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), water can be contaminated by agricultural pollution, oil pollution, sewage and wastewater, radioactive substances, harmful chemicals, and various other materials. It can sometimes be difficult to determine the type and extent of water damage affecting your home or business. That's why it's best to call a local property disaster restoration company like SERVPRO of Medford to fill in the blanks. Our Professional staff will come and inspect your damage and customize a removal, cleanup and restoration solution to get your property damage reversed as quickly and effectively as possible.

Different types of contaminated water pose different risks, but the longer the water stays in a home, the more severe the property damage it will cause and the greater the threat to your health. Also called black water, Category 3 water is water from sewage backups and overflowing rivers that contains various hazardous contaminants, sewage, and/or toxic debris. According to the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IIRC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), all water originating from sea water, ground or surface water, rising rivers and streams, and wind-driven rain from hurricanes and tropical storms is considered to be Category 3.

When Long Island Spring and Summer storms are coming to it’s important to be prepared, our SERVPRO teams are ready and always prepared to handle any size property disaster. Calling SERVPRO after you experience flood or water damage from coastal flooding, severe thunderstorms or basement flooding, can be the difference from a quick cleanup and mitigation or costly restoration, construction and mold remediation services.

KNOW YOUR ZONE & WEATHER TERMINOLOGY

When living in a coastal community like Long Island, it is incredibly important to know where the flood zones are located, and to prepare for severe weather related hazards. Weather terminology and warnings are important tools to knowing when to prepare for a storm and how to keep your family healthy and your property safe from disaster.

THUNDERSTORM TERMINOLOGY

• Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Be Prepared! Watches are typically issued 12-48 hours before a storm is set to hit. This is to advise the public of the possibility of a thunderstorm including; heavy rain, flooding, strong winds and possible hail.
• Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Take Action! Warnings alert the public 2-24 hours before a storm occurs. Issued for hazardous weather that can cause “significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.”

HURRICANE TERMINOLOGY

• Hurricane Watch: Be Prepared! Watches are typically issued 12-48 hours before a storm is set to hit. This is to advise the public of the possibility of a Hurricane (sustained winds of 74mph or greater) including; heavy rain, flooding, strong winds and possible hail.
• Hurricane Warning: Take Action! Warnings alert the public 36 hours in advance of tropical storm-force winds. Issued for hazardous weather that can cause “significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.”

SAFETY TIPS BEFORE A STORM ARRIVES:

Stock up:

Gather and check your disaster supplies and replace or restock as needed. The American Red Cross suggests you pick up at least three days' worth of water and non-perishable food, a flashlight and extra batteries for it, at least seven days’ worth of prescription medication, a cell phone with a charger, and that you have extra cash and spare clothes at the ready.

Have an emergency kit with these items you probably already have in your home: flashlight(s), battery powered weather radio, extra batteries to fit each electronic (including cell phone), non-perishable foods (canned goods and dry foods), lots of bottled water, can opener, first aid kit (with a disinfectant), fire extinguisher, blankets, extra clothes, sturdy shoes or boots, clock or watch, whistle to signal for help, important personal items (eyeglasses, prescriptions, etc.), and paper documents such as birth certificates, social security cards, and other significant legal papers.

Stay Indoors:

Stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Find a safe area in the interior or your property on the lower level or basement. If flooding threatens your home, turn off the electricity at the main breaker. If your property loses power, turn off major appliances such as the AC unit and water heater to reduce damage.

Property Concerns:

Inspect your roof and foundation for damage and make necessary repairs. Exterior doors should have 3 hinges and a deadbolt lock that is and inch long minimum. Cut dead or weak limbs before a storm hits. Remove any limbs hanging over your home that could cause substantial damage if they fall. Likewise, take the time to have trees that could fall on the home removed. Clean rain gutters ensure runoff has a place to go; water that pools and gathers can cause damage especially if a downpour is ongoing.

Spring is here, now is the best time to check for property damage caused by winter wear and tear.

3/26/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather can be hard on your residential or commercial property be sure to look for water property damage left from frigid winter temperatures.

Here are some tips for how to inspect your roof, gutters, siding and yard for potential winter property damage disasters.

Even after a very milder winter, it is critical to assess your property’s exterior to make sure the cold weather hasn’t left you with water property damage. It’s also important to react quickly and take the necessary steps to prevent property damage from compounding, spring showers are on the horizon.

SERVPRO of Medford responded to a local Holbrook, NY property that suffered a water damage disaster indoors due to winter weather and water intrusion. A roof leak went undetected for some time, causing significant water intrusion and secondary damages from the top down.  Our professional SERVPRO service technicians were onsite quickly to treat the water and mold damage to the roof, walls and floors. The drying process was started by placing large commercial drying equipment in the area. Once the area is dry, the restoration and rebuilding process could begin.

Winter weather can be hard on your residential and commercial property be sure to look for problems that frigid temperatures, snow and ice may have caused.

Winter weather can cause upwards of three and a half billion dollars of property damage in the U.S.

Winter storms are accompanied by lots of moisture – snow, freezing rain, ice, hail and wind – come together to create common issues like ice dams, frozen pipes and frost heave that may cause damage to your home or business. SERVPRO of Medford is always ready to respond to your property damage restoration needs quickly, and we can begin the restoration process immediately. Our local disaster restoration services include an inspection and assessment of the damaged areas, water removal/water extraction, drying and dehumidification, cleaning and repairs, restoration and building as necessary. There are several common problem areas to inspect during spring for potential damage, including your roof and gutter system, foundation and yard, plumbing system and your property’s exterior. From the top down these areas could see potential damage from the worst that the winter elements can bring. 

A TOP DOWN APPROACH TO SEASONAL SPRING PROPERTY DAMAGE INSPECTION AREAS:

• Roof and Gutter System Damage:
  
  The function of your roof and gutter system is to remove excess water from your property to prevent damage. High winds, hail and winter storms can tear off or destroy shingles and ice can obstruct the flow of water in gutters and downspouts, allowing water to breach the structure. Winter forces can cause obvious holes in your roof from wind or branches, but additionally less noticeable damage from hail or other debris can cause indentations and divots that overtime can lead to ice and moisture damage. Heavy buildup of ice on your roof can cause your gutters and downspouts to separate from your roofline, disrupting the flow of water and cause water intrusion and damage to the inside of your home or business. It’s a good idea each spring to inspect your roof, gutters and downspouts for visible damage, debris and that they are functioning properly.
  
  
• Window, Door and Exterior Damage:
  
  Cold temperatures, snow and hail can take a toll on the structure of your property including the windows, doors and exterior of your home or business. Without proper repair, peeling paint, cracks in sealant and other damage could lead to moisture infiltration and a water damage disaster. After winter passes, damaged paint should be removed, primed, sealed and repainted. Cracks and air leaks should be sealed and repaired to prevent more devastating damage later, and missing siding should be replaced before springtime showers arrive to prevent additional water and structural damages.
  
  
• Foundation and Other Drainage Problems:
  
  Another potential casualty of winter weather is your foundation and yard. Hairline cracks in the concrete of a foundation that develop naturally over time can expand, causing major structural damage over time if not properly taken care of quickly. Water can find its way into cracks, freeze and make them larger during the frigid cold months of winter. Getting your foundation repaired in the spring can help prevent more problems from developing as time goes by. The best way to avoid foundation damage is to keep moisture moving away from your foundation. Each spring check your gutters and downspouts for debris or clogs, make sure they are functioning properly, and that they drain at least 10 feet away from your home. Make sure the ground around your home is graded away from your foundation and consider adding a rain garden to your property to combat a bigger problem.
  
  
• Plumbing Damage:
  
  Another vulnerable system in your home or business that could be damaged from cold winter temperatures is your plumbing. To adequately deliver water to and from your sinks, boiler, and spickets your plumbing system keeps the water forever flowing. However, during cold winter days and nights cracks and stresses can occur and eventually lead to leaks and pipe breaks that can have a damaging effect on your local commercial or residential property. Remember to survey your pipes regularly for cracks and leaks, paying closest attention to the pipes that are closest to the elements or in poorly insulated areas such as the basement or crawlspace, or outside walls and attics. Take this opportunity to add some additional insulation as a precautionary measure for the future winter weather to come.

Take a Proactive Approach:

Taking a proactive approach to property damage starts with making these inspections during your springtime routine. First and Secondary water damage is multi-faceted and can affect almost every area of your home or business which had water or flood intrusion. If you see any signs of suspected water damage or other types of property damage including mold, smoke, biohazard. Your best course of action is to contact your local Suffolk, NY Disaster Restoration Professionals our SERVPRO crews are trained and certified to handle your water restoration, mold remediation, and other cleanup and property restoration needs. We can arrive quickly perform an inspection, and get you started on the road to recovery and restoration, “Like it never even happened.”

WHEN WINTER STORMS ATTACK YOUR HOME OR BUSINESS OUR LONG ISLAND SERVPRO TEAM CAN HELP

2/15/2019 (Permalink)

Our team takes every step possible to minimize the intrusion while working on the cleanup and restoration of your winter storm property damage.

Winter weather can cause damage from top to bottom in your Long Island home or business. Our weather patterns have become increasingly unpredictable, resulting in heavy snow and freezing temperatures one day and warmer temperatures and rain the next. Ice, freezing rain, wind and snow all play a role in winter storm property damage losses.

The good news SERVPRO of Medford is always here to help, our specialized equipment and highly trained professional staff has the scope of services to handle your Brookhaven, Long Island property restoration needs from start to finish. We understand you may not have all the answers, this maybe the first traumatic experience with your residential or commercial property, calling our team connects you to a professional staff that can provide the answers to your restoration concerns and tailor a solution to restore your home or business, “Like it never even happened.”

The winter season creates the most common and costly claims for home and business owners, and winter-related claims are on the rise, likely due to the severity of storms and increase in the number of people with insurance protection. Over 50% of ALL homeowner claims come from wintery wind, hail, and weather-related water damage.

SERVPRO of Medford is prepared with highly trained professionals and top-notch equipment to be your number one resource during these times of distress. No property disaster is too large for us to handle, our professionals can find solutions to restore your property, “Like it never even happened.”

ROOF DAMAGE: We often take for granted the work our roofs do for us during tough Long Island winters, they keep us safe, dry and warm from the worst winter snow and ice storms. They bear the brunt of the elements, over time the cycle of snow and ice accumulation can have devastating effects and cause major damage to roofing materials and weaken the structural components. Excessive snow loads and weakened roofing materials from ice dams, pooling or leakage are all possible problems that can cause water to infiltrate your home or business and cause water damage.

PIPE BURSTS: We also take for granted the plumbing system in our home or business we just know the water is running or in the case of a pipe freeze (not running). During the winter it gets cold and your pipes feel that too, if your pipes get too cold, the water inside will freeze. The ice can expand causing tiny stresses and breaks or a burst, when the ice melts water begins to leak and causes water property damage to your Long Island home or business. Freezing pipes are a major concern, and a priority for our SERVPRO of Medford team, learn more about how we can help. Freezing pipes account for 18% of all water damage claims, damage from pipe bursts can include flooding, ceiling collapse, floor and wall damage, contents and electronic damage and mold.

WET BASEMENTS: A Basement is a wonderful asset to your home or business, it can provide additional storage or living space to a crowded property. During winter months melting snow can cause water damage in your basement from faulty gutters, cracks in foundations and improper drainage. Water damage is one of the most common and worst side effects of water leakage or flooding in a basement. In addition to contributing to structural and foundation problems, basement water damage can destroy your personal belongings and interior decorative finishes and it also has the power to create the perfect environment for toxic mold growth.

Our SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified and have experience working with a variety of water damage situations both big and small. We have seen flooding and carpet issues, to broken or frozen pipe and plumbing issues, and basement and roof leaks. Our technicians understand that a property damage event can be traumatic and unexpected; they realize time and efficiency are important and they take every step possible to minimize the intrusion while executing the cleanup and restoration of your home or business.

24 Hour Emergency Service Call SERVPRO of Medford servicing Brookhaven, Long Island

SERVPRO of Medford provides 24-hour Emergency Services to Long Island communities, for fire, smoke, sewage and water and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. Our service pros respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment 

Preparing for Hurricane and Intense Storms

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Knowing the category of a hurricane can help you understand how threatening it may be. It is never too early to start preparing for an emergency.

The 2017 Atlantic hurricane season produced 17 named storms, 10 hurricanes and six major hurricanes, including three Category 4 hurricanes that made landfall in the United States: Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. It was the most active season since 1936. 

When it comes to hurricanes, most of the overwhelming damage, is from the "very few strongest storms," Mann said. "What matters is how many Category 3, 4, and 5 storms we get, and we're likely to see more of those storms, and more damage… as a result." —Penn State climate scientist Michael Mann

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. Potential threats from hurricanes include powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, tornadoes, and landslides. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, Although, they are most common in September and early October.

Southern New England is subject to all three hurricane threats:

• Coastal flooding due to the storm surge.
• Widespread wind damage.
• Widespread inland small stream and river flooding due to heavy rains.

Typhoons and hurricanes are both tropical cyclones with winds of at least 74 miles per hour. The only difference is where they are located. Typhoons form in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, while hurricanes occur in the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, central and northeast Pacific.

Knowing the category of a hurricane can help you understand how threatening it may be.

Category 1: Winds range from 74 to 95 mph and can be expected to produce some minor damage to property. Injuries to people and animals are generally isolated and limited to flying or falling debris. During a Category 1 storm, protected glass windows generally remain intact. Some roof damage to frame homes, apartments, and shopping centers can also occur, as well as short-term power outages due to snapped power lines and downed trees.

Category 2: Winds range from 96 to 110 mph and can be expected to produce extensive property damage. Greater wind velocities mean that debris poses a greater threat to humans and animals, while the roofing, siding, and glass windows (protected and unprotected) of frame homes are more vulnerable to damage. In a Category 2 storm, significant structural damage to apartment buildings, mobile homes, and shopping centers is also expected, as well as flooding in low-lying areas. Extensive power outages ranging from a few days to a few weeks are common, and residents are encouraged to stock up on potable water as filtration systems also fail during this time.

Category 3: Winds ranging from 111 to 130 mph cause significant damage to property, humans, and animals. Mobile and poorly constructed frame homes are often destroyed, and even well-built frame homes commonly sustain major damage. Significant damage to apartments and shopping centers (even those made of wood or steel) can be expected. Category 3 storms can also cause extensive inland flooding. Electricity and water are commonly unavailable for several days to several weeks after the storm, therefore it’s important for residents to have their own stores of canned food and water.

Category 4: Winds range from 131 to 155 mph and can cause catastrophic damage to property, humans, and animals. Severe structural damage to frame homes, apartments, and shopping centers should be expected. Category 4 hurricanes often include long-term power outages and water shortages lasting from a few weeks to a few months, so again, it’s important for any remaining residents to have a significant nonperishable food and water supply at hand.

Category 5: Winds at or greater than 155 mph cause catastrophic damage to property, humans, and animals (read: you should be nowhere near this storm!). Complete or almost-complete destruction of mobile homes, frame homes, apartments, and shopping centers should be expected, and nearly all trees in the area will be snapped or uprooted. Power outages can last for weeks and possibly months. Long-term water shortages should be expected as well, and most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

The strongest hurricanes, have brought severe damage to coastal locations, while totally disrupting utility power for days across the interior from downed trees and high winds. Both the stronger hurricanes and many of the weaker tropical storms have caused inland river flooding in parts of the New England. History shows that everyone living in southern New England must take tropical storms and hurricanes seriously. Whether you live along the coast, by a river or stream, or far inland, a tropical storm or hurricane striking Southern New England will affect our local area.

The Difference Between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning

The difference is 12 HOURS. A watch is issued when a hurricane or tropical storm is possible within 36 hours. A warning is issued when those same conditions are expected within 24 hours.

It’s important to take steps while you have time before a storm arrives to protect the well-being of your family/employees and home/business.

Step 1: Have an Emergency Communication and Evacuation Plan; have a predetermined location both on your property, like the large tree in the front yard, or the family station wagon; and in your local town to meet incase an emergency causes your family to separate. It’s also a good idea to discuss a relative out of town that will be a check-in since it could be difficult to reach others in the same emergency area.

Step 2: Supplies; you should have enough supplies in your home for 72 hours for each member of your family, this includes having specialty items for babies and children or the elderly. You should also have an emergency and first aid kit for your home, your car and each person should have a personal kit for themselves. Another good thing to think about is flashlights, batteries and multiple copies of area maps.

Step 3: Insurance Coverage; consider your coverage for flooding, it’s important to have contact information incase of an emergency and make sure you know what to do if a storm causes damage to your property. If flooding is predicted try and move your vehicles to a safer location. Taking a home inventory can be as simple as snapping cell phone photos of the contents in each of your home’s rooms, and recording the item number or serial number of more important items.

Step 4: Important Documents; you should keep copies of important documents including; proof of ownership for homes, cars and other property. Make sure to keep copies of you and your families personal identification and banking information. It’s also a good idea to have some cash available, after a storm getting to an ATM or bank maybe difficult depending on the severity of the damage.

Step 5: Secure Your Property; Experts recommend piling up sandbags at least 2 feet high as an effective barricade against floodwaters. Unplug unused household electronics and appliances, if you are evacuating consider shutting off electricity. Think about trimming trees to reduce any falling limbs and cleaning up things around your home and yard like potted plants, lawn furniture and children’s toys.

Step 6: Electronic Concerns; Aside from keeping extra batteries and chargers around during a hurricane, people are also encouraged to backup any electronic devices. It’s a good idea to store your data at an off-site location.

Call in the Professionals

The effects of a storm to a homeowner can oftentimes be devastating, sustained winds and flooding can damage your home and belongings. When storm and water damage gets serious, there is really only one team to call—SERVPRO of Medford! Our team is highly qualified and trained in water restoration, our experts will come in, assess your damage, take the proper remediation steps to limit damage. We work hand in hand with your insurance company to restore your home to what it was before. Like it never even happened!

• We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster
• We provide 24-Hour Emergency Service
• We are a Trusted Leader in the Water Restoration Industry
• We are Locally Owned and Operated

Every water restoration situation is unique and we treat them that way. We are here for you in these very stressful times and we are Always Here to Help!

When You Need Help, Call Us SERVPRO of Medford at (631) 732-4952